What We’re Reading: Mask Ruling Appealed; Supplement Warning Issued; Florida Targets Trans Youth Care

DOJ Appeals Travel Mask Mandate Ruling

In response to the CDC’s determination that wearing a mask continues to be necessary to ensure public health, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has said that it’s appealing a federal judge's ruling that voided a nationwide mask mandate for public transportation. In making her decision, US District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle claimed the CDC had exceeded its authority and failed to properly follow the rule-making process. As reported by NPR, the Biden administration previously said that it would issue an appeal after it had checked with the CDC, who then asked the DOJ to intervene. The appeal was issued 2 days after the mask mandate was voided

FDA Issues Warning for Dietary Supplements

According to Reuters, the FDA has warned against the purchase of certain dietary supplements sold with variations of “Artiri” or “Ortiga” in the name because they may contain potentially harmful ingredients that are not listed on their nutrition labels. The agency said that laboratory analyses have revealed that some products contained various amounts of dexamethasone, which is a muscle relaxer. The products, often sold online and in retail stores, have been marketed to treat arthritis, muscle pain, and other conditions. The specific products that the drug has been detected in are Artri Ajo King, Artri King, Ortiga Mas Ajo Rey, and Ortiga Mas Ajo Rey Extra Forte.

Florida Releases Guidance Aimed at Transgender Care

The Florida Department of Health (DOH) has released guidance on gender-affirming care for transgender children and teenagers, according to a report from ABC News. The agency disagreed with HHS’ approach of supporting and protecting transgender young people, their families, caretakers, and teachers, suggesting that HHS' move was about imposing political ideology into the children’s health. The news comes after HHS issued its guidance stating that gender-affirming care for transgender minors, when medically necessary, can lead to improvements in their physical and mental health. The Florida DOH said that social gender transition, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy, should not be an option for individuals younger than 18 years.