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West Nile Virus Cases Rise: Prevention and Protection Measures

West Nile Virus Cases Rise: Prevention and Protection Measures

As summer continues, cases of West Nile virus are on the rise, with reports from 24 states indicating an increase in infections. The virus, primarily spread through mosquito bites, peaks in late August to early September. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not exhibit symptoms, but about 20% may experience flu-like symptoms, and less than 1% can develop severe neurological complications. With no vaccine or specific treatment available, prevention through mosquito control and personal protection is crucial. Experts recommend using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Is cyclosporiasis still in Philadelphia? Latest from Health Dept.

Is cyclosporiasis still in Philadelphia? Latest from Health Dept.

Is the Cyclosporiasis outbreak over? Here's what we know.

What you need to know about the Candida auris fungus

What you need to know about the Candida auris fungus

An essential guide to Candida auris, explaining what this drug-resistant fungus is, why it's a concern, and who is most at risk for infection.

Louisiana Warns Beachgoers as Vibrio Vulnificus Infections Rise

Louisiana Warns Beachgoers as Vibrio Vulnificus Infections Rise

Louisiana health officials have issued warnings to beachgoers following a surge in infections from the flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus. The state has confirmed nine cases and five deaths this year, with infections primarily occurring through open wounds exposed to seawater or by consuming raw shellfish. The bacteria thrives in warm, brackish waters, and the rise in cases is linked to climate change, which has led to warmer ocean temperatures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the most deadly type of Vibrio bacteria, with a high fatality rate.

Taylor Farms Recalls Food Items Amid Salmonella Outbreak Affecting 26 States

Taylor Farms Recalls Food Items Amid Salmonella Outbreak Affecting 26 States

Taylor Farms has issued a voluntary recall of several food items, including salsa and guacamole, due to a salmonella outbreak. The recall affects products distributed across 26 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating the outbreak, which has resulted in 345 reported cases of illness. The recall is part of a broader effort to prevent further spread of the bacteria and ensure consumer safety. The affected products have been removed from store shelves as a precautionary measure.

Springfield News-Leader

Cyclospora infections jump 44% in Missouri amid US outbreak

Cyclospora infections jump 44% in Missouri amid US outbreak

Cases of cyclosporiasis, the illness associated with the cyclospora parasite, continue to increase in Missouri amid a national outbreak.

The Commercial Appeal

Is lettuce safe to eat in Tennessee? Cyclospora cases are declining

Is lettuce safe to eat in Tennessee? Cyclospora cases are declining

Cyclospora cases are declining in Tennessee, and health officials say most lettuce sold in stores is safe to eat. Here's what consumers should know and how to reduce their risk.

Taylor Farms Recalls Jalapeño Products Due to Salmonella Risk Affecting 26 States

Taylor Farms Recalls Jalapeño Products Due to Salmonella Risk Affecting 26 States

Taylor Farms, a California-based food supplier, has announced a recall of prepared food items containing jalapeños due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall follows a previous incident involving lettuce linked to a cyclospora outbreak. The affected products include salsas and guacamole distributed across 26 states, with major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods involved. The recall was initiated after Coast Citrus Distributors notified Taylor Farms about their jalapeño recall. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating the outbreak, which has affected 345 people across 27 states, resulting in 36 hospitalizations. Taylor Farms has ceased sourcing jalapeños from the identified farmer in Sinaloa, Mexico, and is unaware of any illnesses linked to the recalled items.

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Louisiana Health Officials Warn Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health officials in Louisiana are urging beachgoers to exercise caution due to a rise in infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. This year, Louisiana has reported nine cases, resulting in five deaths, a significant increase compared to the average of seven cases and one death over the past decade. The bacteria thrive in the warm, brackish waters of the Gulf Coast, with most infections occurring between May and October. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the most deadly type of Vibrio bacteria, with a fatality rate of one in five. Infections can occur through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters.

Health Officials Warn of Rising Vibrio Infections Along Gulf Coast

Health Officials Warn of Rising Vibrio Infections Along Gulf Coast

Health officials in Louisiana and Florida are cautioning beachgoers about an increase in infections caused by Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria thriving in coastal waters. This bacterium, which can be fatal in up to 20% of cases, enters the body through breaks in the skin or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Gulf Coast, with its ideal mix of salt and heat, provides a conducive environment for the bacteria. Louisiana has reported nine cases and five deaths this year, while Florida has seen 14 cases and two deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that infections are more common from May to October and are exacerbated by climate change, which is causing the bacteria to spread northward.

The Knoxville News-Sentinel

Record U.S. measles outbreak: What Tennessee families should know before school starts

Record U.S. measles outbreak: What Tennessee families should know before school starts

Tennessee has reported three measles cases in 2026, including one in West Tennessee and two in Middle Tennessee. As U.S. measles cases reach record highs, here's what Tennessee families should know before students return to school.

Health Officials Warn Gulf Coast Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health Officials Warn Gulf Coast Beachgoers of Deadly Bacterial Infections Surge

Health officials in Louisiana are urging beachgoers to exercise caution due to a surge in infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a flesh-eating bacteria found in coastal waters. This year, Louisiana has reported nine cases, resulting in five deaths, compared to an average of seven cases and one death over the past decade. Vibrio bacteria thrive in the warm, salty waters of the Gulf Coast, with most infections occurring from May to October. The bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin or by consuming raw or undercooked shellfish. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Vibrio vulnificus is the deadliest type, with a fatality rate of one in five infections.