In this episode of Wellness Unmasked, Dr. Nicole Saphier breaks down the latest public health headlines shaping the national conversation on vaccines, infectious disease, and weight-loss medications.

First, Dr. Saphier examines the rapid rise in measles cases across the United States, with more than 1,000 infections already reported in early 2026. After being declared eliminated in 2000, measles is now making a troubling comeback as vaccination rates decline and outbreaks spread across multiple states. She explains why measles remains one of the most contagious viruses in the world, what the CDC’s new messaging under Acting Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya means, and why the MMR vaccine remains about 97% effective at preventing infection.

Dr. Saphier also discusses the broader issue of public trust in vaccines and public health after COVID-19, highlighting the balance between medical freedom, informed consent, and transparent science. Why are vaccination rates falling? What risks does measles actually pose beyond death? And what does responsible public health messaging look like in 2026?

Then, she turns to another major health story: the FDA’s warning to more than 30 telehealth companies marketing compounded versions of popular GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like semaglutide. Dr. Saphier explains why regulators say these medications may be misleadingly marketed and potentially unsafe, and why patients should be cautious when purchasing compounded weight-loss drugs from online pharmacies or med spas.

From measles outbreaks and vaccine trust to the booming market for GLP-1 weight loss medications, this episode delivers a clear, balanced look at the most important health issues of the week.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Measles outbreak in the United States in 2026

• Why measles is one of the most contagious viruses

• Declining vaccination rates and public health risks

• CDC messaging and the role of Dr. Jay Bhattacharya

• Risks and benefits of vaccines after COVID-19

• FDA warning about compounded GLP-1 weight loss drugs

• Safety concerns around semaglutide alternatives sold online

• Why patients should consult doctors before using telehealth weight-loss medications

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In this episode, Dr. Nicole Saphier sits down with board-certified physician, Air Force Reserve Colonel, and author Dr. Josh McConkey to break down the biggest health and national security headlines shaping America right now.

They unpack what wasn’t said in the State of the Union about the MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) movement, vaccine policy, and public health transparency. The conversation dives into the controversial Senate confirmation hearing for Surgeon General nominee Dr. Casey Means, the hepatitis B vaccine debate, COVID-era messaging failures, and what it will take to restore trust in the medical establishment.

Dr. McConkey also shares firsthand insight as a military commander, discussing recruitment challenges, the rollback of vaccine mandates, DEI priorities inside the armed forces, and how national security readiness has shifted under new leadership.

The episode then turns to rising tensions with Iran, nuclear breakout concerns, Operation Midnight Hammer, and what’s at stake globally if deterrence fails.

Plus, Dr. McConkey discusses his Pulitzer Prize–nominated book and his new children’s leadership series focused on resilience, accountability, and raising the next generation to lead.

Topics Covered:

• MAHA movement and vaccine controversy

• Surgeon General confirmation hearing analysis

• COVID vaccine mandates and public trust

• Military recruitment and readiness

• Iran nuclear threat and U.S. strategy

• Leadership, resilience, and raising strong kids

Learn more about Dr. Josh McConkey HERE

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In this episode of Wellness Unmasked, Dr. Nicole Saphier delivers your weekly health and policy rundown—starting with a deeply personal reflection on family, resilience, and finding joy during the Northeast blizzard.

Then, she dives into one of the most closely watched health policy stories in Washington: the Senate confirmation hearing of Dr. Casey Means, President Trump’s nominee for Surgeon General.

Dr. Saphier breaks down:

• The controversy over Dr. Means’ medical credentials, including not completing residency and lacking an active medical license

• Why medical professionals are divided—and what it means for trust in public health leadership

• The critical role of the Surgeon General as America’s top health communicator

• Why public trust, credibility, and messaging may matter more than ever in a post-COVID landscape

• The political dynamics behind the confirmation—and why she’s still likely to be approved

Plus, Dr. Saphier shares her candid perspective as a practicing physician on whether credentials should outweigh communication skills—and what the future of public health leadership should look like.

🔜 Coming next week: A deep dive into the State of the Union’s healthcare agenda, the future of the Affordable Care Act, rising premiums, and the growing influence of the MAHA movement.

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