Outbreaks

Health December 24

Flu by state: Where this season’s highly contagious variant is spreading the most

A highly contagious flu mutation called subclade K is sweeping the nation, raising health concerns about vaccine effectiveness this season. Here are the states at most risk.

Health December 20

Ancient plague mystery cracked after DNA found in 4,000-year-old animal remains

Scientists discover Bronze Age plague DNA in 4,000-year-old sheep remains, shedding light on how ancient diseases spread between animals and humans across Eurasia.

Austin December 12

Invasive pest never before seen in North America threatens Texas food supply, officials warn

Invasive pasture mealybug spreads across 20+ Texas counties, threatening grazing lands and livestock operations. Never before seen in North America.

Travel December 8

CDC reports 21st cruise ship norovirus outbreak this year, with nearly 100 people infected

The CDC confirms a norovirus outbreak on an AIDAdiva cruise ship sickened 95 passengers and six crew members during a November voyage from Germany to multiple destinations.

Bird Flu October 26

Bird flu cases on the rise, as illness confirmed at Georgia commercial poultry farm

Bird flu outbreak hits third Georgia commercial poultry operation this year, affecting 140,000 chickens as state officials work to contain HPAI spread.

Health October 23

Mpox strain surfaces in US without international travel, raising fears of wider outbreak

The California Department of Health reports that three hospitalized clade I mpox patients are now recovering, marking the first community spread without international travel history.

Health October 8

Vaccine debate heats up as officials weigh splitting combined MMR into single doses

Medical experts and vaccine maker Merck reject HHS Deputy Secretary Jim O'Neill's suggestion to split the MMR vaccine into individual measles, mumps and rubella shots.

Travel October 3

CDC reports 19th cruise ship norovirus outbreak this year, affecting passengers and crew

Royal Caribbean International's Serenade of the Seas reported a norovirus outbreak affecting nearly 100 passengers and crew members, marking the 19th cruise ship outbreak this year.

Health October 1

Deadly mosquito-borne virus sparks CDC travel alert — could it reach the US?

Amid growing outbreaks, Americans traveling abroad should use insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent chikungunya virus, experts recommend.

Health September 25

New virus strain spikes in 9 US states with symptoms from brain fog to persistent cough

The XFG variant, also known as Stratus, is now the predominant COVID-19 strain in the U.S. after spreading to 38 countries, according to WHO and CDC data.