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…
Thinking About Taking alli? FDA Adds Kidney Warning to Weight-Loss Pill
The FDA added a kidney injury and kidney stone warning to alli on June 10, 2026. Here’s what changed, who should be careful, and why the pill is meant to support—not replace—healthy habits.
After the ACS update, when does a blood test fit colorectal screening?
The American Cancer Society’s May 27, 2026 update added a blood-based option for colorectal cancer screening, but only as a non-preferred choice for average-risk adults who do not complete preferred tests. Here is what changed, what did not, and what to know about…
When Dentures Change What You Eat, Ask for Help
A short adjustment period is common with dentures. But if chewing trouble, sore spots, dry mouth, or weight loss start changing your diet, it is time to ask for help.
If a Parent Has Medicaid and a Child Has CHIP, Who Does the Work Rule Affect?
Usually not the child directly. CMS’s new Medicaid work rule is aimed at certain adults, but a parent can still lose coverage and create paperwork, doctor-network, or cost problems for the whole household.
Bought requesón or soft ricotta? What June 2026 Listeria recalls mean
A June 2026 Listeria outbreak investigation has led to recalls of some requesón and soft ricotta products, including some cheeses that may have been repacked or relabeled. Here is how to check what you bought, what symptoms to watch for, and what to…
Using alli for weight loss? What the new FDA kidney warning means
FDA added a new kidney warning to over-the-counter alli on June 10, 2026. This was a label update, not a recall. People with a history of kidney disease or kidney stones should read the label carefully and know the symptoms that mean they…
Can my child get a free MMR shot right now?
Often yes—but the answer depends on your child’s age, vaccine record, insurance, and whether local health officials are recommending catch-up or outbreak dosing.
Does My Baby Need an Early MMR Shot Before Travel or an Outbreak?
Some babies ages 6 to 11 months may need an early MMR shot before international travel or during a measles outbreak. Here is when it may apply, why it does not replace the routine series, and what to do after an exposure.
What Medicare’s 2033 Part A Trust Fund Projection Means for You
The 2026 Medicare Trustees Report says Medicare Part A’s hospital trust fund could be depleted in 2033. Here’s what that does — and does not — mean for beneficiaries right now.
What to do if you use a TRUE METRIX meter after the FDA Class I recall
FDA says people using recalled TRUE METRIX meters should switch to another way to test blood sugar if possible, but should keep testing until an alternative is available.
Do You or Your Baby Need an Extra Measles Shot During the 2026 U.S. Outbreaks?
Most families should still follow the routine MMR schedule, but some infants, children, and adults in outbreak settings may need an earlier or extra dose. Here is the clearest way to tell when it is worth calling your clinician or local health department.
