Today, public health in the United States is focused on managing an expanding measles outbreak, preventing influenza complications, monitoring hepatitis A, and addressing international travel risks. According to a CDC Health Alert issued in March, the country is experiencing a rapidly growing measles outbreak with over 220 confirmed cases reported by twelve jurisdictions, prominently in Texas and New Mexico. The outbreak has resulted in two deaths, one in each state, and health authorities expect more cases as the outbreak continues. The vast majority of cases are in Texas, and the epidemic is largely driven by gaps in vaccination among certain communities. The CDC urges all listeners to ensure they are up to date on measles-mumps-rubella vaccinations, especially ahead of the busy travel season, since measles is a highly contagious disease that can be severe, especially in unvaccinated individuals. Immediate reporting of suspected measles cases to local health authorities and the CDC is essential for outbreak control, and all hospitals and clinics should remain vigilant for febrile rash illnesses that could indicate measles infection.

ProMED, an international disease surveillance network, has also highlighted an increase in hepatitis A cases in California, emphasizing the need for vaccination and rapid response to reduce transmission, especially among at-risk populations like the unhoused or those with limited access to sanitation. There are ongoing efforts to provide guidance on hygiene and to distribute hepatitis A vaccines where needed.

Listeners traveling internationally should be particularly attentive to new yellow fever travel restrictions. The U.S. Embassy in Ecuador reports that, as of May 12, travelers arriving from Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate due to outbreaks in those regions. This requirement aims to reduce the risk of disease importation and spread within the United States.

Earlier this year, the CDC and several media outlets, including PBS NewsHour, reported the most intense flu season in at least fifteen years, affecting 43 states with overstretched hospitals and an estimated 8 percent of medical visits related to flu-like illnesses. Even though the season has begun to wane as summer approaches, vulnerable listeners, especially the elderly, young children, and those with chronic conditions, should remain alert for symptoms, seek medical attention if needed, and get vaccinated if they have not already done so.

While the risk for widespread measles remains low thanks to robust immunization programs, public health officials stress that outbreaks are possible wherever vaccination coverage dips. Public health agencies are closely monitoring for further cases and recommend travelers review their vaccine status and follow guidance for international and domestic travel.

Lastly, listeners should note that May 12 is also recognized for important health observances, incl

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Listeners, today, May 10, 2025, several notable public health alerts are active across the United States. The most pressing issue is the ongoing measles outbreak, which has seen a significant surge in cases nationwide. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, 709 confirmed measles cases have been reported in West Texas, with the outbreak starting to appear in additional U.S. cities. Central Nevada Health District adds that there have been 10 separate outbreaks this year across the country, affecting mostly children and teenagers. Of 884 total cases nationwide, 30% are under five years old, and about 97% of cases in this group were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. Three measles-related deaths have been confirmed in the United States for 2025, and the hospitalization rate for those under five reaches 20%.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of MMR vaccination, especially for those planning to travel as the summer season approaches. Despite the rising case numbers, the CDC reassures that the risk of widespread measles transmission remains low due to rigorous immunization programs and ongoing outbreak responses across federal, state, tribal, local, and territorial health partners. However, they urge everyone to ensure their vaccinations are up to date, since measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and characteristic blotchy rash. In Kansas, the Sedgwick County Health Department recently confirmed a case in an unvaccinated child, prompting public notices for those who may have been exposed at a local grocery store in Wichita on April 29. Symptoms may appear up to two weeks after exposure, and those at risk are strongly encouraged to monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.

In addition to measles, bird flu continues to affect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. The American Medical Association reports ongoing avian flu activity and directs healthcare professionals to follow CDC guidance for updates on H5N1 bird flu cases and preventative measures. While the current risk to the general public from avian flu remains low, monitoring remains vital, especially for people with direct contact with affected animals.

There have also been alerts for other diseases. According to ProMED, recent United States alerts include clusters of salmonellosis—particularly in restaurants in California—and pertussis outbreaks in Louisiana. No major new public health emergency declarations have been issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as of today, but listeners are reminded to stay informed through local health departments and the CDC’s Health Alert Network.

For Alzheimer’s disease, recent surveys and research highlight early detection and evolving diagnostics, while new studies continue to examine links between colorectal cancer and gut health in younger adults. These topi

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Today marks Mental Health Day for Children, Youth, and Their Families in Michigan, highlighting the critical importance of supporting youth mental health. An estimated one in five youth has a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder that significantly affects learning and quality of life. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death for children, youth, and young adults ages 10-24 in Michigan, with Native American, African American, and LGBTQ+ youth experiencing disproportionately high rates.

On the infectious disease front, the CDC reports 935 confirmed measles cases across 30 states as of May 1, with 12 outbreaks currently active nationwide. Approximately 93% of these cases are outbreak-associated, and the disease has claimed three lives this year. Most concerning is that 96% of cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. Among those affected, 30% are children under 5 years old, 38% are between 5-19 years, and 30% are adults 20 and older. About 13% of cases have required hospitalization.

Health officials are also monitoring bird flu outbreaks in dairy cattle and poultry, with the American Medical Association providing updates through their H5N1 Resource Center. The CDC continues to track the situation and provides current avian flu maps and technical reports.

In California, health authorities are investigating a salmonellosis outbreak linked to a restaurant, as reported by ProMED on May 4. The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for retail ground beef on May 1, though specific details were not provided.

Other notable disease activity includes pertussis cases in Louisiana, rapidly rising measles cases in Belgium's Flanders region, and yellow fever in Colombia's Tolima region.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently released findings from an alarming report on proposed federal Medicaid cuts, which could terminate health care coverage for approximately 700,000 Michigan residents. These cuts would particularly impact vulnerable populations, as Medicaid provides essential coverage to 2.6 million Michiganders, including many children and youth.

Health experts recommend staying vigilant about vaccination status, particularly for measles, maintaining good hygiene practices, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms of these diseases appear. For mental health concerns, resources like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provide critical support for those in need.

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Today's Public Health Alert Update for May 7, 2025

Health officials across the nation remain on high alert as the measles outbreak continues to spread. According to the CDC, 935 confirmed measles cases have been reported by 30 jurisdictions as of May 1. The outbreak has resulted in three confirmed deaths, with Texas and New Mexico being particularly hard hit. Of concern is that 96% of cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.

Health officials in St. Louis are especially vigilant as measles approaches the region. Public health experts warn that measles can rapidly spread in communities where vaccination rates fall below 95%, with several pockets of Missouri now at risk due to declining immunization rates.

In addition to measles, federal and state health officials are investigating a Salmonella Mbandaka outbreak linked to backyard poultry. The CDC reports seven individuals across six states have been sickened, including cases in Utah, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, and Florida. Among those affected, 71% reported direct contact with backyard poultry such as chickens and ducks. The true number of infections is likely higher as many people recover without seeking medical attention.

Another ongoing concern is avian influenza. In February, H5N1 avian influenza was detected in a dairy herd in Arizona's Maricopa County through routine milk testing. Additionally, contaminated raw pet food has led to H5N1 infections in domestic cats in Oregon.

The CDC continues to emphasize the importance of vaccination, especially before international travel. The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective tool for preventing measles, regardless of destination.

For those with backyard poultry, the CDC recommends always washing hands after handling birds, eggs, or anything in their environment, keeping poultry outside the home, and supervising children around birds to prevent touching faces or mouths after handling them.

Health officials urge anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles—high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash—to contact healthcare providers immediately. For Salmonella infection, watch for diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

The CDC's Health Alert Network continues to serve as the primary method for sharing urgent public health information with healthcare professionals and the public, sending timely updates as these situations evolve.

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Today, the United States is experiencing several active public health alerts worth listeners' attention. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert on May 2, 2025, regarding ineligible pork cracklings products imported from Colombia. These products lacked proper inspection, making them unsafe for consumption. Authorities stress that any pork cracklings from Colombia imported recently should not be consumed and should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase, as stated by the FSIS.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has notified the public about a high risk of dengue virus infections across the Americas, including in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than 760,000 cases have been reported in 2025 so far, a 15 percent increase compared to the previous five-year average. With spring and summer travel increasing, both travel-associated and locally acquired cases of dengue are expected to rise. Healthcare professionals and the public are urged to be vigilant. The CDC recommends using the DENV-1-4 real time RT-PCR assay when dengue is suspected and offers new resources for public health professionals, such as a job aid for reviewing medical records and investigative guidance for non-endemic U.S. areas, according to the CDC.

An expanding measles outbreak has been confirmed in Texas and New Mexico. As of March 7, there have been 208 confirmed cases, 198 in Texas and 10 in New Mexico, with two associated deaths, one in each state. The CDC warns that the outbreak could grow, especially with increased travel during spring and summer. The risk of widespread measles remains low nationwide due to high vaccination coverage and effective surveillance. The CDC strongly advises all U.S. residents to ensure they are current on their measles-mumps-rubella vaccinations, especially before international travel.

Other global alerts with potential U.S. implications are being monitored by ProMED, including environmental contamination with antimicrobial resistance genes, a rabies update affecting both the United States and Bolivia, and several international outbreaks of avian influenza and foot & mouth disease that could impact trade and travel. However, there are no reports of these conditions currently affecting the general U.S. population directly.

Local information from the City of Philadelphia Health Information Portal indicates there are no new health alerts for the city today, though a recent advisory was issued regarding spring travel recommendations and patient protection from utility interruptions.

Listeners are encouraged to stay informed through official channels like the CDC Health Alert Network and local public health departments. Checking travel advisories, vaccination status, and food safety notices can help protect individuals and communities from these evolving health risks.

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Listeners need to know that on May 2, 2025, several public health alerts are active across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, highlights that dengue virus activity remains a significant concern. According to the CDC’s Health Alert Network update from March, they have documented over 760,000 dengue cases globally in 2025, a 15 percent increase over the prior five-year average. Dengue transmission is especially high in the Americas region and in U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The CDC advises listeners and healthcare providers to remain vigilant during the spring and summer travel seasons, which coincide with peak dengue transmission. Testing recommendations include using the CDC’s DENV-1-4 real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assay when dengue is suspected. The agency also encourages public health officials and clinicians to utilize their updated guidance and resources when investigating possible cases of dengue, especially in parts of the United States where the disease is not always present.

Another major point is the ongoing monitoring and alerts regarding measles. The California Department of Public Health confirms multiple measles cases in recent weeks, all traced to international travel as part of a global surge in cases. Health providers are urged to consider measles in patients showing fever and rash, and to isolate and report suspected cases promptly. The CDC previously reported a measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico earlier this year, with over 200 confirmed cases and two deaths. The CDC recommends all travelers ensure they are up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella vaccinations, particularly as travel increases in the coming months.

Listeners should also be aware of a recent food safety alert. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, or FSIS, issued a public health alert for ground beef products from Bismillah Halal Meats. All ground beef produced and sold by this retailer between April 10 and April 23, 2025, is subject to this alert due to concerns over possible contamination. Consumers are urged to check their freezers and refrigerators and not consume any affected products.

The CDC continues to emphasize vigilance around lead exposure following recalls of cinnamon-containing applesauce pouches due to elevated lead levels. Healthcare professionals and parents should monitor children who may have been exposed to these products and report any suspected lead-related illness to local health authorities.

Listeners should also consider that May marks several health observances, including National Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month and the tail end of Patient Experience Week, both aiming to raise awareness and encourage proactive health management.

For the most current information, public health authorities recommend checking CDC’s Health Alert Network and state health department websites

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Listeners, today’s public health alerts in the United States focus on several key concerns including measles outbreaks, avian influenza H5N1, and increased human parvovirus B19 activity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of April 17, there have been 800 confirmed cases of measles in 25 states. This is already more than double the total cases reported in 2024 and marks the sharpest rise since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. The vast majority, 94 percent, of cases are associated with 10 outbreak clusters. Texas is experiencing the brunt of this surge, accounting for 597 cases, with Gaines County alone reporting 371 infections. Other states impacted include Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, and Washington. There have been two confirmed deaths, one additional under investigation, and 11 percent of cases have resulted in hospitalization. Most cases—96 percent—are in unvaccinated or vaccination-status-unknown individuals. The CDC and state health agencies have issued updated vaccination recommendations and are urging healthcare providers to stay alert for additional cases, especially among children under five and those with unknown vaccination status. Texas’s outbreak, in particular, has led to new clusters in Upshur County and has spread to nearby states, including New Mexico, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Kansas is reporting 37 cases across eight counties, while Michigan and Montana have reported their first outbreaks in decades. The CDC warns that this year’s total may soon surpass the 1,274 cases seen in 2019, which was the highest since eradication status was declared.

Another key alert today concerns avian influenza. As of mid-April, the CDC reports 70 confirmed and probable human cases of H5N1 avian influenza in the United States since the outbreak began in 2024, including one death. While there is still no evidence of person-to-person transmission, the virus has spread extensively among wild birds and dairy herds, prompting nationwide surveillance and increased testing. As a response, the FDA has fast-tracked a new mRNA vaccine, ARCT-2304, which is now in early clinical trials as a pandemic preparedness measure.

Finally, the CDC and California Health Alert Network are highlighting a significant rise in human parvovirus B19 activity in the U.S. This respiratory virus, which transmits through respiratory droplets, has shown a marked seasonal increase. Reports indicate that the percentage of people testing positive for parvovirus B19 has risen from less than 3 percent in the 2022–2024 period to 10 percent in June 2024, with the most dramatic rise seen in children aged five to nine. Among this age group, recent infection rates jumped from 15 percent to 40 percent during the same period. There are a

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Today in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Health Alert Network, or CDC HAN, is the primary channel for distributing urgent public health information to clinicians, public health officials, and key stakeholders. CDC HAN communicates through Health Alerts, which indicate the highest level of importance about a public health incident, as well as through Advisories and Updates. Almost all state-based HAN programs reach over 90 percent of their population, ensuring that crucial health information covers the country rapidly and efficiently according to the CDC.

Public health officials and clinicians remain on high alert due to a rapidly expanding measles outbreak focused in Texas and New Mexico. As of March 7, 2025, these states reported 208 confirmed measles cases—198 in Texas and 10 in New Mexico—with two related deaths, one in each state. CDC guidance for today underscores that more cases are expected as the outbreak spreads swiftly. While the risk of nationwide measles transmission remains low because of high U.S. immunization rates and a robust public health response, the CDC strongly urges all U.S. residents to ensure their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date, especially before international travel. Measles spreads easily among unvaccinated populations, and vigilance is advised for anyone experiencing febrile rash illnesses that could meet the measles case definition, as posted by the CDC.

In addition, Texas Department of State Health Services recently confirmed further measles cases, including in school-aged, unvaccinated children from Gaines County who required hospitalization. These developments have prompted renewed calls for vaccination and public vigilance around fever and rash symptoms. According to Texas state health officials, earlier clusters were also identified in Harris County, with ongoing public health messaging emphasizing routine immunizations to limit spread.

Meanwhile, the United States continues to experience its most severe flu season in over 15 years, with 43 states, particularly in the South, Southwest, and West, reporting high or very high flu activity. Hospitals nationwide are coping with an escalating number of flu-related complications and fatalities. According to PBS NewsHour, nearly 8 percent of recent doctor visits are related to flu-like symptoms, highlighting the urgency of preventive actions such as vaccination and good respiratory hygiene.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, met recently to address immunization strategies for a range of diseases, including influenza, COVID-19, and measles. An update on the measles outbreak and vaccine recommendations for diseases like meningococcal and chikungunya were discussed, as noted by Vax-Before-Travel. Notably, VIMKUNYA became the first chikungunya vaccine approved for use in the U.S. for those aged 12 and older this March, even ahead of ACIP’s formal recommendation.

Public health monitors ar

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Listeners, as of April 19, 2025, several critical public health alerts are active in the United States, reflecting ongoing concerns about infectious diseases and the importance of preventive action.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States is experiencing its most severe flu season in at least 15 years. As reported by the World Health Network and PBS, 43 states are currently seeing high or very high flu activity, especially in the South, Southwest, and western regions. Hospitals are being pushed to capacity as the number of flu-related complications rises, and nearly 8 percent of recent physician visits are due to flu-like symptoms. Health officials are urging everyone, especially those at risk of complications, to seek vaccination and use preventative measures to reduce the spread of influenza.

Measles remains a significant concern. Texas state health officials have recently identified additional measles cases, including two in unvaccinated school-aged children from Gaines County and other cases earlier this year in Harris County. The children required hospitalization, highlighting the seriousness of the illness and the ongoing risk for outbreaks. Health officials continue to emphasize the necessity of vaccination and vigilance, particularly as travel increases in the coming months, which can facilitate disease spread.

The CDC Health Alert Network has issued an advisory regarding the ongoing risk of dengue virus infections in the United States. While dengue is more common in tropical and subtropical regions, the CDC is urging healthcare providers to be alert for cases, especially in returning travelers, and to follow updated testing recommendations. This comes alongside HAN advisories from March 2025 about expanding measles outbreaks and previous concerns over Ebola outbreaks abroad, which, while not currently present in the U.S., require preparedness and monitoring.

COVID-19 remains a public health priority, and the CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it becomes available, regardless of prior vaccination status. This is especially important as respiratory illnesses surge during fall and winter. It is also safe for listeners to receive both the COVID-19 and flu vaccines at the same visit. Vaccination continues to be a critical tool in reducing hospitalizations and deaths from both diseases. CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen stresses making a plan now for vaccination to protect yourself and your loved ones.

April also marks National Public Health Week, a time when public health agencies and organizations highlight key issues and progress in building a healthier nation. The American Public Health Association encourages communities to raise awareness and take action on pressing health topics, including infectious disease prevention and preparedness.

For any health emergency or concerns about communicable diseases, listeners in

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Listeners, as of April 16, 2025, several key public health alerts and activities are ongoing in the United States.

According to the CDC's Health Alert Network, there is a continuing risk of dengue virus infections within the United States. Recent advisories remind clinicians and public health professionals to stay vigilant for cases, particularly as the mosquito season progresses. Updated testing recommendations have been issued to help identify and manage infections promptly. In a separate recent advisory, the CDC has highlighted an expanding measles outbreak, warning of heightened transmission and providing updated guidance ahead of the travel season.

The New Mexico Department of Health is reporting a significant measles outbreak, especially in Lea County, with 59 cases as of April 15, and additional cases in Eddy, Chaves, and Doña Ana counties. Out of the total 63 cases reported, only six individuals had received at least one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR, vaccine, while the majority were unvaccinated. One death has been confirmed. Local health departments, such as those in Roswell and Santa Fe, are conducting walk-in vaccination clinics on April 16 to help limit further spread.

The CDC maintains a global measles outbreak travel advisory for U.S. citizens, listing 39 countries with ongoing risk. Travelers are urged to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date before international trips, and healthcare professionals are reminded to watch for imported cases.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is also meeting today to discuss several urgent topics, including the evidence and recommendations for the use of vaccines against diseases like chikungunya, meningococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. The committee is covering the latest surveillance data, clinical guidance, and voting on updated recommendations, which will impact public health responses in the coming months.

April is notable for several nationwide health observances. The National Rosacea Society marks April as Rosacea Awareness Month to bring attention to this widespread skin condition affecting more than 16 million Americans, encouraging those who may have symptoms to seek care. The Autism Society of America promotes Autism Acceptance Month, focusing on enhancing support, services, and inclusion for everyone in the autism community. Additionally, April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a campaign led by the Child Welfare Information Gateway since 1983 to unite communities and advocate for child safety and well-being.

Listeners should know that public health alerts may vary by state and locality. For the most up-to-date and location-specific information, always consult local health departments or the CDC’s Health Alert Network, which ensures critical alerts reach both healthcare professionals and the broader public efficiently. Today’s urgent focus remains on preventing vaccine-preventable diseases, staying updated on evolving infect

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