Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

On August 10-11, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order reducing recommended childhood vaccines from 17 to 11 diseases, removing universal recommendations for hepatitis B, COVID-19, and flu. The order also calls for splitting the combined MMR vaccine into three separate shots, based on debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Health experts and lawmakers strongly oppose the move, warning it increases infection risks amid a major measles outbreak. The order’s impact is limited as states control vaccine mandates.

28 reports · 9 sources · Updated Aug 21, 01:42 PM UTC

A salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeño peppers from a grower in Sinaloa, Mexico, has sickened at least 345 people across 27 U.S. states, with 36 hospitalized. The contaminated peppers, distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors, were used at Chipotle and QDOBA restaurants, which removed them from all 4,850 U.S. locations. Taylor Farms also recalled ready-made products containing the peppers. The CDC states no ongoing risk to customers, while the FDA investigates potential grocery store sales.

7 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 12, 06:02 PM UTC

On July 30, 2026, the Senate HELP Committee voted along party lines to advance Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC director and Sean Kaufman as ASPR assistant secretary. Schwartz’s nomination passed 13-10, with Democrat Tim Kaine crossing party lines, citing urgent health threats like Ebola and measles. Kaufman’s nomination advanced 12-11 after he agreed to avoid vaccine policymaking. Both nominees face full Senate confirmation amid concerns over political interference from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has pursued a vaccine-skeptical agenda.

14 reports · 5 sources · Updated Aug 6, 02:53 PM UTC

Michigan health officials confirmed the first two deaths in a nationwide cyclosporiasis outbreak, both victims having significant underlying health conditions. Michigan, the hardest-hit state, has reported 11,234 cases and 193 hospitalizations. The outbreak is linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sourced from central Mexico. While cyclosporiasis is generally not life-threatening, the fatalities highlight risks for vulnerable populations. Cases have been reported across 45 states, though the outbreak may be subsiding.

11 reports · 6 sources · Updated Aug 5, 01:52 PM UTC

In July 2026, a cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico sickened thousands across multiple U.S. states, causing Taco Bell foot traffic to drop up to 31% on July 17. Yum Brands reported mixed Q2 earnings on July 30, beating profit expectations but missing revenue forecasts. CEO Chris Turner noted sales were recovering, with social media sentiment returning to pre-outbreak levels. The FDA identified Taco Bell lettuce as the only confirmed source, with over 11,500 cases reported nationwide.

9 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 8, 12:00 PM UTC

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has launched the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge demonstration program, providing eligible beneficiaries access to anti-obesity medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide for $50 per month through the end of 2027. This marks a significant policy shift, as federal law previously barred Medicare from covering obesity drugs despite spending billions on obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. The program addresses the fact that roughly two-thirds of Medicare beneficiaries are overweight or have obesity. Clinical evidence shows these drugs can lead to 15-20% weight loss and reduce risks of cardiovascular events, sleep apnea, and kidney disease. Critics cite a Congressional Budget Office estimate that broad coverage could increase federal deficits by $35 billion through 2034, but supporters argue this fails to capture long-term health savings and quality-of-life improvements.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 12:00 PM UTC

Sweetgreen (NYSE: SG) stock dropped nearly 15% over the trading week ending July 24, 2026, driven by investor fears over a widening cyclospora parasite outbreak linked to lettuce. The CDC and FDA issued multiple alerts, with the outbreak originating in central Mexico and affecting 1,947 people across nine U.S. states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. No cases have been reported at Sweetgreen locations, but as a salad-focused chain, the company is seen as vulnerable to consumer avoidance. The article notes that while no fatalities have occurred, 98 hospitalizations have been reported. The author advises caution, suggesting the stock may fall further due to potential revenue impacts from diners avoiding restaurants like Sweetgreen.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 11:44 PM UTC

The United States is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in 35 years, with 2,318 confirmed cases recorded in just the first seven months of 2026, according to CDC data. This surpasses the record-setting 2025 total of 2,289 cases, which included three deaths, two of them young children. Measles was declared eradicated in the US in 2000 due to widespread vaccination, but declining vaccination rates and growing distrust in health authorities have fueled a resurgence. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been accused of spreading anti-vaccine sentiment. The American Academy of Pediatrics called the outbreak an 'avoidable crisis' that disproportionately harms children. The last time case numbers were this high was in 1991, before a two-dose vaccine regimen became standard.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 07:04 PM UTC

The United States is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in 35 years, with 2,318 confirmed cases recorded in just seven months of 2026, according to CDC data. This surpasses the 2025 total of 2,289 cases, which included three deaths, two of them young children. Measles was declared eradicated in the US in 2000 due to widespread vaccination, but declining vaccination rates and growing distrust in health authorities have fueled a resurgence. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has been accused of contributing to the crisis by spreading anti-vaccine sentiment. The American Academy of Pediatrics called the outbreak an 'avoidable crisis' that disproportionately harms children. The last time case numbers were this high was in 1991, before a two-dose vaccine regimen became standard.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 07:04 PM UTC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of July 23, 2026, the United States has confirmed 2,318 measles cases in 2026, surpassing the total of 2,289 cases recorded for the entire year of 2025. The cases have been reported from across most of the country, indicating a widespread outbreak. This marks a significant increase in measles incidence, highlighting ongoing public health challenges related to vaccination coverage and disease containment.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 06:27 PM UTC

The article reports a salmonella outbreak linked to eggs produced by Midwest Poultry Services in Texas, prompting a recall of nearly 1.6 million shell eggs sold at Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana, and Brookshire Grocery stores in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, and New Mexico. The eggs may be contaminated with Salmonella enteritidis, causing symptoms like cramps, diarrhea, and fever. This follows a cyclospora outbreak from tainted lettuce affecting over 12,000 people across 41 states, and a New World screwworm infestation in Texas cattle causing $1 billion in damages. The article criticizes the Trump administration and Elon Musk's DOGE for cutting monitoring and response programs that previously prevented such outbreaks, raising concerns about food safety.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 08:47 PM UTC

The article reports a salmonella outbreak linked to eggs from Midwest Poultry Services, which recalled nearly 1.6 million shell eggs produced in Texas due to potential Salmonella enteritidis contamination. The eggs were sold at Kroger stores in Texas and Louisiana, and Brookshire Grocery stores in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, and New Mexico. This follows a cyclospora outbreak from tainted lettuce that affected at least 41 states with over 12,000 possible cases, and a New World screwworm infestation in Texas cattle causing an estimated $1 billion in damages. The article criticizes the Trump administration and Elon Musk's DOGE for cutting monitoring programs and CDC response teams, linking these cuts to the recent food safety crises.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 08:47 PM UTC

A massive multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic foodborne illness, is testing HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s pledge to overhaul the U.S. food system and restore public trust in agencies like the CDC. At least 7,000 people have been sickened in Michigan alone, with official CDC counts lagging at nearly 4,200 cases. The FDA and CDC initially identified shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms as the likely source, but later retracted a positive test result as a false positive, creating confusion. Experts say the response highlights chronic underfunding of food safety at the FDA and CDC, exacerbated by recent Trump administration cuts to key investigative and public communication staff. Kennedy has defended the response as 'under control,' but former officials and food safety experts argue the system is overstrained and underprepared.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 12:32 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract the CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and advocacy groups warn that this will increase administrative costs, delay funding, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are essential for reaching high-risk communities and building trust. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, has condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract to CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and nonprofit groups warn that the new model will increase administrative costs, delay fund distribution, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are essential for reaching communities hardest hit by HIV due to trust and stigma issues. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, has condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew millions of dollars in HIV prevention funding that previously went directly to community-based organizations (CBOs). Instead, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will route these grants through state and local health departments, which will decide whether to subcontract the CBOs. The change affects the 'Ending the HIV Epidemic in the U.S. through Community-Based Partnerships' program. CDC employees and nonprofit groups warn that this will increase administrative costs, delay funding, and potentially force many CBOs to lay off staff or shut down. Critics argue that CBOs, often run by people with lived experience, are crucial for reaching communities hardest hit by HIV due to trust and stigma issues. The Department of Health and Human Services defends the move as streamlining funding while keeping local decision-making central. The Save HIV Funding coalition, representing over 150 organizations, condemned the decision.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 PM UTC

A multistate Cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to Taco Bell restaurants has sickened over 1,600 confirmed cases and thousands more suspected across the U.S., with Michigan hardest hit. The FDA traced contamination to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sourced from a single farm in Mexico. Taco Bell proactively removed the lettuce and switched suppliers. Federal lawsuits have been filed alleging negligence. The outbreak has affected 34 states since May, prompting a recall and highlighting ongoing food safety concerns.

34 reports · 11 sources · Updated Jul 28, 11:30 AM UTC

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated on Tuesday that the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak affecting thousands across the U.S. is 'under control,' claiming officials have identified the source through extensive forensics testing and that implicated companies have implemented recalls. However, the Food and Drug Administration earlier acknowledged a false positive result from a lettuce sample from Taylor Farms, leaving no clearly confirmed source. Kennedy dismissed criticisms that the Trump administration delayed public notification and that federal funding cuts ended mandatory reporting for cyclospora in some states, arguing no cuts affected the Foodborne Disease Active Surveillance Network. The CDC noted it made cyclospora reporting optional in 2025. The story is developing.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:36 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew $46 million in direct federal funding for 96 community-based organizations that provide HIV prevention services, including testing, linkage to care, and pre- and post-exposure drug treatment referrals. The Office of Management and Budget informed the CDC of the decision, which shifts resources to state and local health departments instead. A supplemental funding notice to states was issued but only covers funding through May, with applications due July 21. The move contradicts the White House's goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030 and is seen as part of a broader push to eliminate DEI-focused initiatives. HIV advocacy groups are urging Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya to reverse the decision. The White House's 2027 budget request proposed eliminating $800 million of CDC HIV prevention funding.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:00 PM UTC

The Trump administration has decided not to renew $46 million in direct federal funding for 96 community-based organizations that provide HIV prevention services, including testing, linkage to care, and pre- and post-exposure drug treatment referrals. The Office of Management and Budget informed the CDC of the decision late last week, redirecting resources to state and local health departments instead. A supplemental notice of funding to states was issued, but it only lasts through May and applications are due July 21. The move is seen as part of the administration's push to eliminate DEI-focused initiatives that help the LGBTQ community, and it contradicts the White House's goal to end the HIV epidemic by 2030. HIV advocacy groups are urging Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya to reverse the decision. The White House's 2027 budget request proposed eliminating $800 million of CDC HIV prevention funding.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:00 PM UTC

This article from HuffPost UK highlights six common poolside behaviors that doctors advise against for safety and health reasons. First, skipping a pre-swim rinse reduces chlorine's effectiveness and creates irritating byproducts; the CDC recommends at least a minute under the shower. Second, bringing glass near the pool poses a risk of invisible, sharp shards that can cause deep lacerations requiring hospital admission in nearly 5% of cases, and may necessitate draining the pool. Third, leaving a child unattended, even briefly, is extremely dangerous because drowning is often silent and fast; a survey found 48% of parents mistakenly believe they would hear splashing or crying. The article cites dermatologist Dr. Chris Bunick and emergency department chair Dr. Steven Valassis, emphasizing that swim lessons alone do not eliminate drowning risk. The advice aims to prevent injuries, contamination, and life-threatening incidents.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

This article from HuffPost UK outlines six common poolside behaviors that doctors advise against for health and safety reasons. The behaviors include: skipping a pre-swim rinse, which reduces chlorine's effectiveness and creates irritating byproducts; bringing glass near the pool, which can cause severe, invisible lacerations requiring hospital care; and leaving children unattended, as drowning is often silent and fast, with 48% of parents mistakenly believing they would hear a child in trouble. The article cites experts such as Dr. Chris Bunick (Yale dermatologist) and Dr. Steven Valassis (emergency department chair) and references the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics. It emphasizes that swim lessons alone do not eliminate drowning risk and recommends using plastic cups or aluminum cans instead of glassware.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

This article from HuffPost UK outlines six common poolside behaviors that doctors advise against for health and safety reasons. It warns against skipping a pre-swim rinse, as sweat and products reduce chlorine's effectiveness and create irritants. Bringing glass near the pool is discouraged due to the risk of invisible, dangerous shards that can cause severe lacerations and require pool draining. Leaving children unattended is highlighted as extremely dangerous, as drowning is often silent and fast, with 48% of parents mistakenly believing they would hear a child in trouble. The article also covers other risks not fully detailed in the provided text, emphasizing that swim lessons alone do not eliminate drowning risk. The advice is sourced from clinicians including a Yale dermatologist and an emergency department chair.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 08:00 AM UTC

Shares of Sweetgreen (NYSE: SG) rallied on July 17, 2026, after the CDC identified Taco Bell as the source of a cyclospora outbreak that had sickened thousands. Prior to this, Sweetgreen's stock had lost about a quarter of its value due to investor fears that its salads could be linked to the parasite. The FDA traced the outbreak to one of Taco Bell's suppliers, easing concerns about Sweetgreen. However, the company faces ongoing challenges: same-store sales fell 12.8% in Q1 due to an 11.2% decline in customer traffic, driven by higher energy costs weighing on consumer budgets. Sweetgreen is set to report its Q2 financial results on August 6.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 12:36 AM UTC

A seasoned traveler who has visited nearly 90 countries shares strategies for avoiding food poisoning while enjoying street food abroad. The article, featuring insights from gastroenterologist Dr. Karl Kwok, emphasizes risk management rather than complete avoidance. Key tips include: avoiding raw fruits and vegetables that cannot be peeled, boiled, or cooked; choosing street food vendors popular with locals and ensuring food is served piping hot (above 140°F); and being cautious with water and ice by sticking to sealed bottled drinks. The author recounts successfully eating street food multiple times a week during a three-week trip to India without getting sick. The piece balances personal experience with medical advice, noting that while no method is foolproof, these practices significantly reduce the risk of contracting pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and norovirus.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:50 PM UTC

A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrhea-causing parasite, has sickened thousands across more than two-thirds of U.S. states. The article reports that cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, significantly reduced the CDC's cyclospora response team from 11 to just 3 people. Additionally, in July 2025, the CDC under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. quietly changed cyclospora monitoring from mandatory to optional in its Foodnet surveillance program. Former CDC parasitologist Joel Barratt warned that outbreak responses will be greatly diminished. The White House press secretary claimed the cuts did not impact the response, a claim the article disputes. The outbreak has been nicknamed 'the DOGE shits' on social media.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 03:45 PM UTC

A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrhea-causing parasite, has sickened thousands across more than two-thirds of U.S. states. Evidence increasingly attributes the severity of the outbreak to cuts made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk under the Trump administration. According to a WIRED report, the CDC lab responsible for cyclospora response was downsized from 11 people to just three. Additionally, in July 2025, the CDC under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. quietly changed cyclospora monitoring from mandatory to optional in the Foodnet surveillance system. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's claim that funding cuts did not impact the response is contradicted by these reports. The article also notes a GOP senator coined the phrase 'DOGE shit' to describe the fallout.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 03:45 PM UTC

A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a diarrhea-causing parasite, has sickened thousands across more than two-thirds of U.S. states. The article argues that cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk under President Trump, significantly weakened the CDC's ability to respond. The CDC's cyclospora lab was downsized from 11 to 3 staff. Additionally, in July 2025, the CDC under Health Secretary RFK Jr. changed cyclospora monitoring from mandatory to optional in the Foodnet surveillance system. The White House press secretary claimed the cuts did not impact the outbreak response, a claim the article disputes. The outbreak has been nicknamed 'the DOGE shits' on social media.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 03:45 PM UTC

Early foot traffic data from Placer.ai shows that Taco Bell, Panera Bread, and Chopt experienced declining customer visits in late July as a cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated shredded lettuce spread across the US. Taco Bell saw a 4.6% drop on Friday and 5.8% on Saturday, with steeper declines in Michigan. Panera fell 3% and 7.4%, while Chopt dropped 7.1% on Saturday. The outbreak, traced to Taylor Farms produce, has sickened over 1,600 people across 34 states since May 1. Taco Bell removed the affected lettuce from its supply chain nationwide. Other chains like Chick-fil-A, Cava, Subway, and Jersey Mike's saw no significant traffic changes.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 01:27 PM UTC

Gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships reached a nearly two-decade high in 2025, with 23 incidents reported, marking the highest number since 2007. According to CDC data, these outbreaks, often driven by norovirus, have risen steadily since the pandemic period, although early 2026 figures show a decline. While a rare and deadly hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius in April killed three people and drew global attention, experts emphasize that common stomach bugs remain a far more frequent threat. The cruise industry continues to boom despite these health concerns, with passenger volumes hitting a record 37 million in 2025. Analysts note that strong demand persists into 2026, as consumers weigh the risks against the appeal of cruising. Health officials warn that the confined environment, shared facilities, and older demographic of typical cruisers increase infection risks. Recommendations include rigorous hand hygiene and mask-wearing when respiratory illnesses are present. The article highlights the trade-off between the enjoyment of cruise travel and the elevated potential for disease transmission in such settings.

1 reports · 1 sources