Rural Health
News by Topic: Public health
CDC: Agency Forms Undergoing Paperwork Reduction Act Review
Federal Register
Jan 20, 2026 - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is seeking comments on Round 8 of the "National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) Rapid Surveys System (RSS)." The RSS complements the current household survey systems at NCHS and uses survey data from probability-based online panels to produce time-sensitive estimates of new and emerging public health topics, attitudes, and behaviors. Comments are due within 30 days of this notice.
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
Dec 22, 2025 - Describes high rates of gun suicide among older California adults, particularly for those in rural communities. Discusses the connection between suicide and health conditions, rural barriers to care, and suicide prevention initiatives.
Source: Cal Matters
Dec 13, 2025 - Highlights a rural community event from a South Carolina health care organization offering winter clothing, free flu shots, and health resources to local residents. Notes that access to weather appropriate clothing and preventive care can be more limited in rural areas.
Source: WLTX
Dec 9, 2025 - Describes an innovation that could offer small rural wastewater facilities an affordable way to conduct wastewater sampling for public health purposes. Notes the traditional testing equipment is expensive and often out of reach for rural facilities.
Source: Louisiana Illuminator