Pharma & Drug Safety

Rabies Alert Issued for Southampton County, Virginia

The Southampton County Health Department has issued a public health alert after a skunk tested positive for rabies. Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets, including ensuring vaccinations and avoiding contact with wild animals.

MHRA Consultation on Indefinite Recognition of CE-Marked Medical Devices

The MHRA has launched a consultation on proposals for the indefinite recognition of CE-marked medical devices in Great Britain. The consultation seeks feedback on extending current transitional arrangements and introducing an international reliance route to ensure continued supply and patient access to medical technologies. The deadline for feedback is April 10, 2026.

Virginia Health Officials Investigate Confirmed Measles Case

Virginia health officials are investigating a confirmed measles case in Northern Virginia, with potential exposure sites listed. The public is advised to report exposures and check vaccination status. This is the eighth reported measles case in Virginia in 2026.

MHRA Consultation on CE Marked Medical Device Recognition

The MHRA has launched a consultation on proposals for the indefinite recognition of CE-marked medical devices in Great Britain. The consultation seeks views on extending transitional arrangements for MDD-compliant devices and indefinitely recognising EU MDR/IVDR compliant devices, with a comment deadline of April 10.

MHRA Seizes 20 Million Illegal ED Pills, Warns Against Online Buys

The MHRA announced the seizure of nearly 20 million illegal erectile dysfunction pills between 2021 and 2025, including 4.4 million in 2025 alone. The agency is warning the public against purchasing unauthorized medicines online due to significant health risks.

Health District Offers Cancer Risk Reduction Tips

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District has issued guidance on cancer risk reduction tips in observance of National Cancer Prevention Month. The notice outlines lifestyle choices and screening recommendations to help residents lower their risk of developing cancer.

Chesterfield Health District Promotes Blood Pressure Screening and Coaching

The Chesterfield Health District is promoting the importance of blood pressure screening during American Heart Month. They are offering a coaching program called 'My Blood Pressure, My Health' for low-income adults with high blood pressure, providing monitoring tools and education.

Virginia Health Department Offers Free Condoms and STI Prevention Information

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reminding residents about the availability of free condoms and resources for STI prevention, including PrEP and DoxyPEP, in conjunction with Valentine's Day and National Condom Day. The notice highlights rising STI rates in Virginia, particularly syphilis, and provides information on where to access these services.

VDH Issues Potomac River Recreational Water Advisory

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has issued a recreational water advisory for a 72.5-mile stretch of the Potomac River due to sewage spills reported on January 19 and February 7, 2026. Residents are advised to avoid water contact activities for an estimated four to six weeks while repairs are underway.

Illinois Reaffirms Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommendation for Newborns

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reaffirmed its longstanding recommendation for all newborns to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth. This guidance aligns with the Illinois Immunization Advisory Committee's recommendations and diverges from recent federal changes, prioritizing public health and health equity.