Local Health Alerts
This Is Why Prescription Drugs Are So Expensive
High U.S. prescription drug costs are driven by a lack of price regulation, patent monopolies, and complex supply chain mechanics involving pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that incentivize high list prices. Infographics highlight that these factors, combined with extensive marketing spend over R&D, lead…
FDA cleared an OTC CGM for kids: using glucose trends safely
On June 12, 2026, the FDA cleared the first over-the-counter (OTC) continuous glucose monitor for children (age 2+ who do not use insulin). Here’s how parents can use glucose trends around meals and activity responsibly—without overreacting to single readings or making unsafe medication…
GreenWise Frozen Blueberries Recall: E. coli Symptoms & When to Get Help
If you ate recalled GreenWise frozen organic blueberries (10 oz, lot 60401, best by Feb. 9, 2028), know when symptoms may start (often 3–4 days) and which signs—especially dehydration and HUS—mean you need medical help right away.
Long COVID Brain Fog Trial: Telehealth Goal Rehab Results
A new randomized trial tested a remote, individualized “goal-focused” cognitive rehab program for adults with long COVID–related cognitive impairment (often called “brain fog”). Participants reported better functional goal attainment after treatment, with benefits still seen at 6 months. But the trial did not…
Hospital Price Transparency Enforcement: What CMS Tracks—and What It Can’t Predict
CMS’s hospital price transparency enforcement is tied to updated 2026 requirements, and CMS publishes enforcement outcomes in a public dataset. Here’s how to read those warnings and penalty pathways—and how to use posted prices responsibly when estimating costs.
FDA Recall: Check Cetirizine Bottle for Ranitidine Cross-Contamination
FDA says four lots of cetirizine 5 mg tablets were recalled because of possible ranitidine cross-contamination. Check your lot number, stop if it matches, and call 911 for signs of anaphylaxis.
Cyclospora Outbreak Linked to Recalled Lettuce: What Families Should Do
CDC, FDA, and state partners are investigating a Cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce in 9 states. If your household ate the recalled shredded lettuce, here’s what to watch for and what to do now.
Recalled Kids’ Fruit Pouches: How to Check Pumpkin Tree Banana & Strawberry
FDA posted a July 21, 2026 recall for select Pumpkin Tree Peter Rabbit Organics Banana & Strawberry 4 oz fruit puree pouches due to a possible soft, food-grade plastic strand. Here’s how to check, what to do if you have one, and what…
Pregnant or 65+? Checklist for Requeson/Soft Ricotta and Listeria
CDC and FDA are investigating a multistate Listeria outbreak linked to certain requeson/soft ricotta-style cheeses. If you’re pregnant, 65 or older, or immunocompromised, check your fridge, do not eat recalled cheese, and know which symptoms mean you should contact a clinician right away.
Ask your dentist about gum health: the AHA update on heart links
New guidance from the American Heart Association highlights an association between gum (periodontal) disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Here’s what that means for your dental visit—what to ask, what to screen for, and what remains unproven about preventing heart attacks or strokes.
Measles Wastewater Update: What Families and Schools Can Do Now
CDC updates its measles wastewater monitoring data every Friday. This guide explains what a detection (or no detection) can suggest for community-level measles activity—and what families and schools should do next to stay ready without panicking.
If You Have Maternal Venezuelan Ancestry: What the FDA’s July 2026 Anesthesia Safety Alert Means for Families
On July 2, 2026, the FDA said it is investigating rare, catastrophic neurologic outcomes after general anesthesia—especially involving sevoflurane/volatile anesthetics—in some people with maternal Venezuelan ancestry. Here’s what’s known, what remains uncertain, what professional guidance recommends discussing before surgery, and the stroke-like “red…
