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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCE
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCE
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCE
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
SOURCE
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
SOURCE
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August Egg Company, sold under multiple brand names, has recalled cage-free organic brown eggs due to Salmonella contamination. As of June 5th, at least 79 people have become sick and 21 have been hospitalized after eating the eggs. The contaminated eggs have sell-by dates from March 4th to June 19th and have plant code P-6562 or CA5330 printed on the carton. They were sold at Walmart locations in 9 states including Nebraska and Illinois. If you bought eggs from Walmart during this period, check for the recalled plant codes; recalled eggs should not be consumed and can be returned to the store for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and chills. Symptoms develop 12-72 hours after infection.
Anyone can get sick from Salmonella, but older adults, young children, and people who are immunocompromised are at greater risk.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely higher than the reported number because not everyone who gets sick reports their illness, and some may have had mild symptoms.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning about the cause of the contamination.
The outbreak may not have been limited to states with reported illnesses because some illnesses go unreported.
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August Egg Company, sold under multiple brand names, has recalled cage-free organic brown eggs due to Salmonella contamination. As of June 5th, at least 79 people have become sick and 21 have been hospitalized after eating the eggs. The contaminated eggs have sell-by dates from March 4th to June 19th and have plant code P-6562 or CA5330 printed on the carton. They were sold at Walmart locations in 9 states including Nebraska and Illinois. If you bought eggs from Walmart during this period, check for the recalled plant codes; recalled eggs should not be consumed and can be returned to the store for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and chills. Symptoms develop 12-72 hours after infection.
Anyone can get sick from Salmonella, but older adults, young children, and people who are immunocompromised are at greater risk.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely higher than the reported number because not everyone who gets sick reports their illness, and some may have had mild symptoms.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning about the cause of the contamination.
The outbreak may not have been limited to states with reported illnesses because some illnesses go unreported.
HEARD IT
BELIEVABILITY
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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As of April 23rd, one measles case was confirmed in Taney County near Branson, MO, and another case was found in Southern Illinois, 120 miles from St. Louis. It was the first measles case in both states in 2025. Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air for hours after someone coughs or sneezes. People are contagious before a rash appears. It is estimated that 90% of non-immune people will get measles after close contact with a contagious person. As measles cases appear in more states, more people live within a day’s drive of a case. Vaccination is the best protection against measles.
WHAT WE KNOW
Measles cases in the U.S. are still increasing as of April 27th. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, and is especially dangerous to children under 5 and older adults.
Most people who are not vaccinated will get measles if they come into contact with someone who has the virus. Children younger than 1 are typically not yet vaccinated for measles, which makes them particularly at risk.
It is recommended that babies receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12-15 months, and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. In circumstances where exposure to measles is more likely infants between 6-12 months of age can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is less effective at this age, so babies vaccinated before the age of 1 should receive two doses on the recommended schedule after the age of 1.
In rare cases where a person with a MMR vaccine has had a breakthrough measles infection, the cases are more mild and the person is less contagious than if they were not vaccinated. The majority of people in the U.S. who have gotten measles this year are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
UNKNOWNS
The reported case count for measles is likely lower than how many cases there actually are due to some cases not being reported to the health department.
SOURCE
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As of April 23rd, one measles case was confirmed in Taney County near Branson, MO, and another case was found in Southern Illinois, 120 miles from St. Louis. It was the first measles case in both states in 2025. Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air for hours after someone coughs or sneezes. People are contagious before a rash appears. It is estimated that 90% of non-immune people will get measles after close contact with a contagious person. As measles cases appear in more states, more people live within a day’s drive of a case. Vaccination is the best protection against measles.
WHAT WE KNOW
Measles cases in the U.S. are still increasing as of April 27th. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, and is especially dangerous to children under 5 and older adults.
Most people who are not vaccinated will get measles if they come into contact with someone who has the virus. Children younger than 1 are typically not yet vaccinated for measles, which makes them particularly at risk.
It is recommended that babies receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12-15 months, and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. In circumstances where exposure to measles is more likely infants between 6-12 months of age can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is less effective at this age, so babies vaccinated before the age of 1 should receive two doses on the recommended schedule after the age of 1.
In rare cases where a person with a MMR vaccine has had a breakthrough measles infection, the cases are more mild and the person is less contagious than if they were not vaccinated. The majority of people in the U.S. who have gotten measles this year are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
UNKNOWNS
The reported case count for measles is likely lower than how many cases there actually are due to some cases not being reported to the health department.
SOURCE
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Latest info suggests this claim is true
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCE
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCE
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Current science suggests this claim is true
YOU CAN SAY THIS...
A tornado struck St. Louis on May 16, 2025, leaving behind debris and dust which can harm the lungs. Tornado survivors can develop lung issues, like asthma flare-ups and pneumonia, even if they have never experienced them before. People with existing lung conditions are at increased risk of worsening lung issues. If possible, wear a respirator mask, such as an N95, when outdoors or cleaning up damaged buildings or debris.
WHAT WE KNOW
Warning signs of breathing problems include coughing (especially at night), wheezing or feeling short of breath, and chest tightness or pain. Get emergency medical help if fingernails or lips are turning blue or if you experience severe chest pain.
Many of the neighborhoods affected by the storm have older buildings. Older buildings can contain dangerous chemicals such as arsenic, nickel, or lead. They can also contain dangerous building materials, including asbestos and fiberglass, which can damage the lungs when inhaled.
Wearing a respirator mask, N95 mask, or face mask when participating in cleanup can protect the lungs from dangerous dust particles.
Tornado relief efforts have been organized across St. Louis. Action St. Louis, a grassroots organization in St. Louis, has mobilized volunteers in response to the damage caused by the storm and has created a resource guide. The local St. Louis government has also put together response and recovery resources in support of the #stlrecovers initiative.
UNKNOWNS
The extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Funds for disaster relief are still being collected and requested.
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YOU CAN SAY THIS...
A tornado struck St. Louis on May 16, 2025, leaving behind debris and dust which can harm the lungs. Tornado survivors can develop lung issues, like asthma flare-ups and pneumonia, even if they have never experienced them before. People with existing lung conditions are at increased risk of worsening lung issues. If possible, wear a respirator mask, such as an N95, when outdoors or cleaning up damaged buildings or debris.
WHAT WE KNOW
Warning signs of breathing problems include coughing (especially at night), wheezing or feeling short of breath, and chest tightness or pain. Get emergency medical help if fingernails or lips are turning blue or if you experience severe chest pain.
Many of the neighborhoods affected by the storm have older buildings. Older buildings can contain dangerous chemicals such as arsenic, nickel, or lead. They can also contain dangerous building materials, including asbestos and fiberglass, which can damage the lungs when inhaled.
Wearing a respirator mask, N95 mask, or face mask when participating in cleanup can protect the lungs from dangerous dust particles.
Tornado relief efforts have been organized across St. Louis. Action St. Louis, a grassroots organization in St. Louis, has mobilized volunteers in response to the damage caused by the storm and has created a resource guide. The local St. Louis government has also put together response and recovery resources in support of the #stlrecovers initiative.
UNKNOWNS
The extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Funds for disaster relief are still being collected and requested.
HEARD IT
BELIEVABILITY
HEARD IT FROM
KNOW
FROM
YOU CAN SAY THIS...
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines for pain management during common in-office procedures including IUD insertion. Everyone experiences pain differently, and the guidelines are meant to ensure that doctors inform patients of their options for pain management and help them make the best choice before undergoing a procedure. Some options for IUD insertions include numbing sprays and creams or paracervical blocks.
WHAT WE KNOW
The new ACOG guidelines also apply to other in-office gynecological procedures, including endometrial biopsy, hysteroscopy, intrauterine imaging, and cervical biopsy. Recommended pain management options vary for each procedure. Doctors should discuss the potential pain experienced during the procedure and the available pain management options with each patient.
IUD stands for Intrauterine Device and is a form of birth control that can prevent pregnancy for 3-10 years depending on the type of IUD used.
Only a healthcare provider is qualified to insert, adjust, or remove an IUD. Insertion typically takes about 15 minutes. There are pain management options available for patients to make the procedure less uncomfortable.
Each patient tolerates pain differently. A patient, in consultation with their doctor, can choose to have local anesthetics, numbing sprays or creams, NSAIDS such as Advil, or sedation throughout the procedure.
Some cramping is expected after the placement, but if someone is still experiencing cramping one week after insertion they should let their doctor know to ensure the IUD is not out of place.
People are more likely to experience pain with insertion if they have never given birth vaginally, have painful periods, experience pelvic pain and heavy periods, or know that they have a lower pain tolerance.
UNKNOWNS
Not all patients, especially Black patients, are given options for pain management before IUD procedures. We are still learning if these new guidelines will ensure doctors talk with all patients about pain management options.
We are still learning about the effectiveness of NSAIDs in reducing pain before IUD insertion.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
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On May 7th the FDA announced that they found two colors of Sacred Tattoo Ink (raven black and sunny daze) were contaminated with the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria could cause infection, rashes, and lesions where the ink was applied. People considering getting a tattoo should ensure these two colors from Sacred Ink are not used in their tattoo, and tattoo artists should check their supplies and throw away the affected inks. Lot numbers can be found at FDA.gov.
WHAT WE KNOW
The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.
The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.
To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.
It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.
UNKNOWNS
There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.
The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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Vaccines help prevent disease and do not cause autism. The false claim that vaccines cause autism dates back to a small 1998 study of 12 children and the MMR vaccine. The study was deeply flawed and based on misrepresented data and later removed from the scientific journal that published it. Since then, over 25 high-quality research studies have shown no link between autism and vaccines. Other false claims link autism to getting multiple vaccinations at the same time or to the use of vaccine preservatives. These claims have also been studied, and scientists continue to find no evidence to support these claims.
WHAT WE KNOW
Signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to show up around the same time as childhood vaccinations by coincidence. Early autism signs appear in toddlers at around 2-3 years old, and a diagnosis is usually not given until the age of three or later. Many childhood vaccinations are also given between the ages of 2 months and 18 months, including the MMR vaccine.
The overlap in timing is part of the reason why false claims that vaccines cause autism could lead people to believe the two are linked. However, scientific research has repeatedly shown that this overlap in timing is coincidental and not causal, and vaccinated children do not have higher autism rates than unvaccinated children.
The number of children diagnosed with autism has risen over the past decade. Diagnostic criteria have also changed, which broadened the definition to include people with lower support needs who may not have previously qualified for the diagnosis (formerly diagnosed as Aspergers Syndrome). This, along with increased awareness of ASD, is likely the main cause of this increase.
Autism spectrum disorder, as the name implies, is a spectrum. This means that there are varying degrees to which autism affects people’s day-to-day lives.
Research has shown that the cause of autism is largely genetic, which means the genes for developing autism are passed down from one generation to the next.
UNKNOWNS
While autism is largely genetic, scientists continue to research other factors which may increase the risk of autism including the age of parents at the time of conception.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
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August Egg Company, sold under multiple brand names, has recalled cage-free organic brown eggs due to Salmonella contamination. As of June 5th, at least 79 people have become sick and 21 have been hospitalized after eating the eggs. The contaminated eggs have sell-by dates from March 4th to June 19th and have plant code P-6562 or CA5330 printed on the carton. They were sold at Walmart locations in 9 states including Nebraska and Illinois. If you bought eggs from Walmart during this period, check for the recalled plant codes; recalled eggs should not be consumed and can be returned to the store for a refund.
WHAT WE KNOW
Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever, and chills. Symptoms develop 12-72 hours after infection.
Anyone can get sick from Salmonella, but older adults, young children, and people who are immunocompromised are at greater risk.
The number of cases in this outbreak is likely higher than the reported number because not everyone who gets sick reports their illness, and some may have had mild symptoms.
UNKNOWNS
We are still learning about the cause of the contamination.
The outbreak may not have been limited to states with reported illnesses because some illnesses go unreported.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
HEARD IT FROM
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FROM
YOU CAN SAY THIS...
As of April 23rd, one measles case was confirmed in Taney County near Branson, MO, and another case was found in Southern Illinois, 120 miles from St. Louis. It was the first measles case in both states in 2025. Measles is highly contagious and can linger in the air for hours after someone coughs or sneezes. People are contagious before a rash appears. It is estimated that 90% of non-immune people will get measles after close contact with a contagious person. As measles cases appear in more states, more people live within a day’s drive of a case. Vaccination is the best protection against measles.
WHAT WE KNOW
Measles cases in the U.S. are still increasing as of April 27th. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, and is especially dangerous to children under 5 and older adults.
Most people who are not vaccinated will get measles if they come into contact with someone who has the virus. Children younger than 1 are typically not yet vaccinated for measles, which makes them particularly at risk.
It is recommended that babies receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12-15 months, and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. In circumstances where exposure to measles is more likely infants between 6-12 months of age can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is less effective at this age, so babies vaccinated before the age of 1 should receive two doses on the recommended schedule after the age of 1.
In rare cases where a person with a MMR vaccine has had a breakthrough measles infection, the cases are more mild and the person is less contagious than if they were not vaccinated. The majority of people in the U.S. who have gotten measles this year are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
UNKNOWNS
The reported case count for measles is likely lower than how many cases there actually are due to some cases not being reported to the health department.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
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On May 9th, the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, butterfly pea flower extract (blue, green, or purple) and calcium phosphate (white) for use in foods and drinks. Research shows the three additives to be safe for use as food dyes and may provide an alternative for food manufacturers looking to switch to more natural dyes. These dyes may not work as alternatives for some products, as natural dyes tend to fade more quickly or be more expensive.
WHAT WE KNOW
Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.
Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.
Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.
UNKNOWNS
It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.
SOURCES
HEARD IT
heard this concern.
BELIEVABILITY
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A tornado struck St. Louis on May 16, 2025, leaving behind debris and dust which can harm the lungs. Tornado survivors can develop lung issues, like asthma flare-ups and pneumonia, even if they have never experienced them before. People with existing lung conditions are at increased risk of worsening lung issues. If possible, wear a respirator mask, such as an N95, when outdoors or cleaning up damaged buildings or debris.
WHAT WE KNOW
Warning signs of breathing problems include coughing (especially at night), wheezing or feeling short of breath, and chest tightness or pain. Get emergency medical help if fingernails or lips are turning blue or if you experience severe chest pain.
Many of the neighborhoods affected by the storm have older buildings. Older buildings can contain dangerous chemicals such as arsenic, nickel, or lead. They can also contain dangerous building materials, including asbestos and fiberglass, which can damage the lungs when inhaled.
Wearing a respirator mask, N95 mask, or face mask when participating in cleanup can protect the lungs from dangerous dust particles.
Tornado relief efforts have been organized across St. Louis. Action St. Louis, a grassroots organization in St. Louis, has mobilized volunteers in response to the damage caused by the storm and has created a resource guide. The local St. Louis government has also put together response and recovery resources in support of the #stlrecovers initiative.
UNKNOWNS
The extent of the damage is still being assessed.
Funds for disaster relief are still being collected and requested.
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