Health stories in Raleigh–Durham

The CDC has reported more than 18,000 cases of cyclosporiasis across 45 states, with at least 6,707 confirmed cases. Many infections are linked to recalled iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell, raising concerns about food safety.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has introduced a new dashboard to monitor cyclosporiasis cases amid an ongoing outbreak. Since May 1, there have been 718 reported cases, with 24 classified as severe.

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis due to a significant drop in donations, impacting patients in need across the Greater Triangle Area. Local officials report a critical shortage of blood supplies, particularly O type, as hospitals request more blood amid declining donations.

North Carolina is preparing for new federal work requirements that could drop around 730,000 Medicaid recipients from coverage. The rules, effective January 1, 2027, will require verification of work or community engagement, posing challenges for those with health issues.

Community members voiced concerns about WakeMed's planned merger with Atrium Health during a forum, questioning local control and patient care. The $2 billion investment promises job creation but raises fears about quality and accessibility of healthcare.

A Wake County jury has awarded $18.2 million in the largest medical malpractice verdict for a specific birth injury case. The ruling comes after a doctor at WakeMed was found negligent, resulting in permanent injury to a newborn.

Jeanine Morton, a speech therapist in Sanford, NC, has successfully resolved a lengthy dispute with Humana Military over nearly $14,000 in claims. Despite the resolution, the ordeal led her to close her practice due to the stress involved.

A nonprofit organization is set to host a town hall meeting in Raleigh to discuss the proposed merger between WakeMed and Atrium Health. This event aims to engage the community in dialogue about the implications of the merger.

A salmonella outbreak has sickened 98 individuals across 17 states, with a significant portion linked to recalled eggs from Midwest Poultry Services. The FDA is investigating additional sources of the outbreak as 26 people have been hospitalized.

Judy Miller's podcast 'Not Ready for the Farm' delves into the challenges of aging and dementia care. This week, she and co-host Jess Anderson discuss support for individuals experiencing brain changes with experts Teepa Snow and Amanda Bulgarelli.

Steve Church, a Raleigh-area patient, is optimistic about Lipfendra, a newly approved daily pill for cholesterol management. This medication aims to simplify treatment and reduce costs for patients previously reliant on injections.

Tick bites have reached a 10-year high in the Southeast, prompting health experts to advise on prevention methods. Local scouts emphasize the importance of being prepared while enjoying outdoor activities in North Carolina.

In Nepal, former aid workers, including transgender activist Rubi Lama, are resorting to sex work for survival after U.S. foreign aid cuts left them jobless. The cuts have not only impacted those they helped but also pose significant public health risks, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community.

Federal health officials are investigating a new outbreak of the diarrhea-causing parasite cyclospora, which has affected 72 individuals. The source of the outbreak has not yet been identified, but officials are examining potential links to contaminated produce.

Midwest Poultry Services has recalled nearly 19 million eggs due to potential salmonella contamination. The eggs, sold in various states, have specific sell-by dates and codes for identification.

PT Organics Limited is recalling select Banana&Strawberry fruit puree pouches due to potential plastic contamination. The affected products were sold at major retailers nationwide, and consumers are advised to discard or return them.

The cyclosporiasis outbreak continues to rise, with over 11,500 cases reported across the U.S. Health officials are investigating a potential link to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell, prompting a recall by Taylor Farms de Mexico.

William Shatner and his daughter, Melanie Shatner Gretsch, share their experiences battling Stage 4 cancer. Both are now in remission, highlighting the importance of family support during their journeys.

The Health Care Affordability Commission in North Carolina has begun a six-month initiative aimed at addressing high healthcare costs, medical debt, and competition issues. The commission's first meeting highlighted the urgent need for solutions to make healthcare more affordable for residents.

Health officials in North Carolina are investigating an ongoing outbreak of cyclosporiasis, suggesting that multiple sources may be responsible. The Department of Health and Human Services is working to identify the origins of the outbreak.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that a multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak is under control, with 1,600 cases reported. The outbreak has been linked to shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms, prompting a recall across 27 states.

North Carolina is experiencing a significant rise in cyclosporiasis cases, with 561 reported since May 1. Health officials are investigating the outbreak linked to uncooked produce and advising consumers on safe handling practices.

CVS Pharmacy now offers prescription medications for pets at over 9,000 locations across the U.S., making it easier for pet owners to access necessary treatments. This new service includes options for automatic refills and home delivery.

North Carolina's Governor Josh Stein has signed House Bill 696, addressing a $319 million funding shortfall for Medicaid. However, the new law introduces stricter work requirements for applicants, raising concerns about access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.

As year-round schooling begins, a Durham school is taking extra precautions to protect students from cyclosporiasis. The North Carolina Department of Health has reported 307 cases statewide, with Durham County seeing 18 confirmed cases.

Federal health officials are investigating multiple clusters of cyclosporiasis cases, with the largest linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell. The outbreak has primarily affected Michigan, where cases have surged significantly.

In response to a rising cyclospora outbreak affecting nearly 300 people in Wake County, both Wake County and Durham Public Schools have temporarily removed salads from their menus. Health experts emphasize the importance of sanitation and caution, particularly for children who are vulnerable to severe symptoms.

A teenager from Clovis is recovering after experiencing a life-threatening aortic dissection during a basketball practice at Fresno City College. This incident highlights the importance of awareness regarding sudden medical emergencies in sports.

A recent report from the American Heart Association suggests that drinking up to five cups of paper-filtered or instant coffee daily may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The findings mark a significant shift in understanding coffee's health impacts, emphasizing the importance of brewing methods.

Taylor Fresh Foods is recalling all iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico due to a cyclosporiasis outbreak that has sickened over 1,600 people. The recall affects products sold in 27 states, including North Carolina, and is linked to Taco Bell locations in several states.