Cyclospora is a single-celled parasite that spreads when people consume food or water that is contaminated with feces. Symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, cramping, and loss of appetite. Last year there were about 1,000 total cases in the U.S. This year between June 22nd and July 14th there were more than 3,300 cases in Michigan alone. Thirty other states are also reporting cases. Health officials are working to determine the outbreak’s cause. Lettuce and salad greens are a suspected source however; this has not been confirmed. In past outbreaks, raspberries, cilantro, basil, green onions, and romaine lettuce were sources of contamination. Cooking food can help reduce the risk of illness. 

The U.S. now has over 3,000 data centers. About 38% of Americans live within 5 miles of one. Most are located in rural areas, where many residents rely on well water. Some communities near data centers have raised concerns about local water quality. Residents claim that data center construction has led to sediment buildup in private wells causing cloudy brown water. Others are concerned about polluted water being discharged into the environment after being used for evaporative cooling in data centers. More research and water testing is needed in communities to understand the impacts data centers might have on water quality.

As of June 17, 2026, there were 896 confirmed cases including 232 deaths from the Bundibugyo Ebola virus in Democratic Republic of Congo & Uganda. The number of deaths is likely higher than reported because many deaths are still under investigation. The World Health Organization has determined that the outbreak risk level for countries that boarder DRC and Uganda is high, but the risk for other countries in Africa and for the rest of the world remains low.

Firearms were the leading cause of death in children under 18 in the US from 2020-2024; data from 2025 are still being analyzed. Some of these deaths are accidental. Children accessing loaded guns in their home can have tragic consequences, as St. Louisans have recently been reminded. Safe gun storage lowers the risk of unintentional firearm injuries among children by 85%. Gun locks physically prevent a gun from firing and are available for free at St. Louis City and County and libraries, firehouses, a police department, and by mail through the St. Louis Children's Hospital. More information on proper firearm storage can be found at BeSmartforKids.org.

Many parts of the country are experiencing record breaking heat this week, with high humidity and high temperatures increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. People should stay in air conditioning as much as possible during high heat and avoid outdoor exertion. Older adults, infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic health conditions are at greater risk of negative health impacts. People without air-conditioning at home can make a plan to stay cool by visiting a local mall, library, or public cooling shelter.