Rural Health
News by Topic: Infectious diseases
FDA: Authorization of Emergency Use of Certain Medical Devices During COVID-19; Availability
Federal Register
Jan 21, 2026 - The Food and Drug Administration has issued an Emergency Use Authorization for certain medical devices related to the COVID-19 pandemic. These authorizations are effective on their date of issuance.
Source: Federal Register
Jan 13, 2026 - Discusses a recent study finding that portable water stations installed in rural Alaskan homes without piped water as part of COVID-19 mitigation efforts are decreasing contagious diseases and increasing water use. Discusses the cost savings associated with this system, making water associated public health practices more achievable than in the past.
Source: Alaska Beacon
Jan 7, 2026 - Notice from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) seeking comments on an information collection regarding a form related to the COVID-19 Provider Relief Fund (PRF) and American Rescue Plan (ARP) rural payment reporting activities. The information collection is used to assess if statutory and programmatic requirements are met; conduct audits; report on findings with respect to the disbursements of PRF and ARP Rural payments; and for the program evaluation. Comments are due by February 6, 2026.
Source: Federal Register