Drug Safety

NY Reports Record Flu Hospitalizations

The New York State Department of Health announced a record high of 4,546 flu hospitalizations in a single week, nearly 1,000 more than the previous week. This surge indicates a more severe flu season than in prior years.

California CDPH Urges Flu Vaccination and Treatment as Cases Rise

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a notice urging vaccination and timely treatment as influenza cases rise, including a new strain (H3N2 subclade K). CDPH recommends vaccination for all individuals 6 months and older, rapid testing for symptomatic individuals, and immediate antiviral treatment for high-risk patients.

New York State Department of Health Urges Flu Vaccination

The New York State Department of Health is urging residents to get vaccinated against influenza due to high flu activity. The department emphasizes that vaccination is the best protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death, and provides guidance on preventive measures.

California Health Advisory: Death Cap Mushroom Poisoning Outbreak

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued an updated health advisory regarding an ongoing outbreak of amatoxin poisoning linked to wild Death Cap mushrooms. As of January 6, 2026, the outbreak has resulted in 35 hospitalizations, three deaths, and three liver transplants across Northern California and the Central Coast.

Avian Influenza Alert for Wild Birds and Mammals

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued an alert regarding Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in wild birds and mammals, with increased risk expected over winter. The DEC urges the public to report suspected cases and avoid contact with sick or dead animals.

CDPH Warns Retailers and Public About Dangers of Kratom-Derived Products

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a warning to retailers and the public regarding the dangers and illegality of kratom-derived products and 7-OH. These products have been linked to overdose deaths and are not approved for sale for consumption.

NY Health Departments Endorse 2026 AAP Immunization Schedule

The New York State and New York City Health Departments have officially endorsed the 2026 childhood and adolescent immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). This endorsement aligns with existing school immunization requirements and insurance coverage policies.

CA Health Alliance Endorses AAP Vaccine Schedule, Warns Measles Risk

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) have endorsed the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. This endorsement aligns with previous CDPH recommendations and addresses concerns about rising measles cases due to declining vaccination rates.

New York State Joins WHO Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network

New York State has officially joined the World Health Organization's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN). This move strengthens the state's global public health preparedness and response capabilities by allowing it to share expertise and laboratory resources internationally.

California Department of Public Health Urges Measles Vaccination Amidst Case Rise

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has reported 17 measles cases statewide as of February 9, 2026, including an outbreak of eight cases in Shasta County. CDPH is urging residents to check their immunization status and get vaccinated against measles due to rising cases locally and nationally.