Ebola Deaths Top 4,200; Food Safety Confidence Hits Low; Other Health News
The WHO reported 8,728 confirmed cases and 4,205 deaths in Congo's Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus. A Gallup survey found Americans' confidence in food safety at a new low after a large cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce, and Taylor Farms said it would stop producing iceberg in Mexico during the CDC-defined cyclosporiasis season. The roundup also covered rising cold and flu medicine purchases, a GAO finding that the Trump administration withheld AHRQ research funds, Medicare affordability concerns, and Viola Davis discussing shingles.
The WHO tallied 8,728 confirmed Ebola cases and 4,205 deaths in Congo, an outbreak attributed to Bundibugyo virus. Separately, a Gallup survey found U.S. food-safety confidence at a new low following a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce. Taylor Farms said it will halt iceberg production in Mexico during the CDC-defined cyclosporiasis season, May through August.
Other items: Walgreens reported cold and flu medicine purchases up more than 20% year over year. A GAO report concluded the Trump administration unlawfully withheld AHRQ research funds. A Commonwealth Fund survey found Medicare enrollees' main barrier is affordability, not access. Viola Davis discussed shingles.
The Ebola outbreak may continue to strain Congo's health system and communities, while global agencies weigh response needs. Falling food-safety confidence could alter consumer choices and pressure lettuce suppliers to change practices. Medicare affordability concerns may leave older adults facing cost barriers, and withheld AHRQ funds could slow health services research. Cold-medicine buying trends and vaccine debates may also shape public health messaging.