public-health35.185 min read
Rosina Meatballs Recalled Over Possible Metal Contamination
3 days ago•Source: fsis.usda.gov
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16.61 min•5 days ago
Immunization in the Crosswinds: Courts, States, and Agencies Reshape U.S. Vaccine Policy
This biweekly briefing maps sweeping shifts in U.S. vaccine policy: federal court battles over pediatric vaccine scheduling and ACIP governance, state efforts to roll back school vaccine requirements, regulatory reversals on Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine, and a leadership shake-up at the CDC, all set against widening data gaps and new data tools from public health researchers and advocates.
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The ring vaccination that ended smallpox—and the man who led it
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Measles exposure prompts health alert at Norman bar
A confirmed measles case was in public at Logie's on the Corner in Norman, OK, on Jan. 24, 2026 from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The Oklahoma State Department of Health says unvaccinated or unsure individuals should fill out a form and expect contact; exposed non-immune people should exclude themselves from public settings for 21 days from the exposure, and anyone with flu-like symptoms or a new rash should self-exclude. Updates will be posted.
Colorado Measles Outbreak Traced to Infectious Traveler on International Flight
A May–June 2025 measles outbreak in Colorado was linked to an infectious international traveler, resulting in nine secondary and one tertiary Colorado cases, with seven additional cases reported by other states. Notably, two vaccinated patients had the virus detected only in urine, highlighting urine RT-PCR as a potentially more sensitive diagnostic tool. Public health authorities identified about 1,400 contacts, offered postexposure prophylaxis, and emphasized full MMR vaccination (two doses) for travelers and staying up to date on vaccination.
Maricopa County Confirms Local Measles Transmission, Expands Public Exposure Notices
Maricopa County Public Health confirms two more measles cases (one with no known exposure), indicating local transmission and adding three public exposure sites. Health officials urge vaccination with the MMR vaccine, watching for symptoms, and seeking prompt medical care if exposed or symptomatic, noting measles’ high contagiousness and potential complications.
Listeria scare prompts recall of Suzanna’s Kitchen grilled chicken fillets
FSIS announced Suzanna’s Kitchen is recalling about 13,720 pounds of ready-to-eat grilled chicken breast fillets produced Oct 14, 2025, due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The 10-lb cases contain two 5-lb bags, lot code 60104 P1382 287 5 J14, establishment number P-1382, shipped to distribution centers in AL, FL, GA, MO, NH, NC, and OH. There have been no reported illnesses. Consumers with questions can contact Dawn Duncan or the FSIS Meat and Poultry Hotline; complaints can be filed online via the Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System. The recall is active as of Jan 16, 2026.
Allegheny County Wastewater Tests Reveal Fentanyl, Xylazine, and More
Allegheny County is using wastewater testing to track the presence of drugs like fentanyl, xylazine, and others, providing public health officials with valuable data to respond to evolving drug trends and inform funding and treatment strategies. The testing, conducted by Biobot Analytics, offers an additional layer of insight alongside other data sources, helping to address the complex and changing drug supply in the region.
Family Injured in Rabid Cat Attack Highlights Animal Control Gaps
A family in Pennsylvania faced significant challenges due to the state's fragmented animal control system after being attacked by a rabid cat, highlighting gaps in local and state response capabilities, high costs of testing and treatment, and the lack of coordinated resources for rabies cases, especially involving feral animals.
Five States Implement SNAP Bans on Soda and Candy Starting January 1
Starting January 1, five states (Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia) will implement waivers restricting the purchase of certain unhealthy foods like soda and candy with SNAP benefits, aiming to improve public health but facing logistical challenges and mixed evidence on effectiveness.
Five States Implement SNAP Bans on Soda and Candy Starting January 1
Starting January 1, five states (Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia) will implement waivers restricting the purchase of certain unhealthy foods like soda and candy with SNAP benefits, aiming to improve public health but facing logistical challenges and mixed evidence on effectiveness.
Idaho Company Recalls 3,000 Pounds of Ground Beef Over E. coli Risk
An Idaho-based company recalled nearly 3,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential E. coli contamination, with no confirmed illnesses reported. The affected products were produced in December and shipped to multiple states, and consumers are advised to discard or return the meat and cook ground beef to 160°F to ensure safety.
Multiple State Recall of Frozen Shrimp Over Radioactive Contamination Concerns
Frozen shrimp imported from Indonesia and sold under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands has been recalled across multiple states due to possible contamination with radioactive cesium-137, though no illnesses have been reported. Consumers are advised to discard or return the affected products, and the recall involves over 83,800 bags sold in various states. The contamination may have occurred during processing, packing, or shipping.