Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers Expands as COVID-19 Vaccine Advances

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Cucumbers Expands

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a surge in cases of a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to whole cucumbers, growing from 26 to 45 cases in just two weeks. The current outbreak now spans 18 states, with three new states joining the list. The onset of illnesses has been traced back to dates ranging from April 2 to May 10, 2025, and investigations are still underway.

The contaminated cucumbers, cultivated by Bedner Growers Inc. and distributed by Fresh Start Produce Inc. between April 29 and May 19, should not be available for purchase. Consumers are urged to discard any whole cucumbers in their homes if the origin cannot be confirmed, as per CDC guidance.

• No fatalities have been reported in the 45 cases, though 16 individuals have been hospitalized.
• Florida and Georgia report the highest number of cases, with seven patients each.
• A significant number of cases are linked to cruise ship travel, especially with numerous patients having either traveled from Florida or been on the same ships.

FDA Approves Moderna's Next-Generation COVID-19 Vaccine

In other health news, Moderna recently announced FDA approval for its updated COVID-19 vaccine, mNexspike (mRNA-1283). This new vaccine edition targets a specific section of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to neutralize the virus, allowing for a much smaller dosage—just one-fifth of the original Spikevax dose. Additionally, this vaccine is designed to be refrigerator-stable, potentially improving its distribution and administration efficiency.

The approval is based on a phase 3 trial that involved 11,400 participants aged 12 and above. Results showed that the 10-microgram dose of mNexspike outperformed the 50-microgram Spikevax dose in terms of relative vaccine efficacy, particularly in older adults.

Stéphane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, emphasized the significance of this new product in combating COVID-19, citing last year's death toll of over 47,000 Americans due to the virus. The mNexspike vaccine is expected to be available for the 2025-26 respiratory virus season and is recommended for seniors and at-risk individuals aged 12 to 64.

New Findings on Viral Infections and Secondary Infections

A recent study involving patients at Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals has revealed that infections from influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are linked to an increased risk of secondary Streptococcus pneumoniae infections. In contrast, prior COVID-19 infections appeared to reduce the likelihood of developing such bacterial infections.

The analysis, which included over 188,000 patients, indicated that while flu and RSV significantly elevated the risk for S pneumoniae, prior COVID-19 infections decreased that risk by 44%. Further research is necessary to understand these relationships and the implications for patient care following viral respiratory illnesses.

Concern Over Avian Flu in Dairy Products

In an alarming new study published on the preprint server medRxiv, infectious flu viruses were found to persist in raw cow and sheep milk for extended periods, raising health concerns regarding the transmission of H5N1 avian flu. Following the emergence of H5N1 in US dairy cattle, researchers highlighted the precarious situation regarding unpasteurized dairy products and their risk for human infection.

Whooping Cough Resurgence in Iowa and Beyond

The Iowa Department of Health is sounding the alarm over a rise in whooping cough (pertussis) cases, with reports suggesting over 19 cases confirmed in just the last three months. This trend is being mirrored across several states, including South Dakota, which has also seen a significant uptick in pertussis cases. As vaccination rates continue to decline, health officials urge the importance of vaccination and prompt medical attention for those exhibiting symptoms.

As we navigate these health challenges, ongoing vigilance in public health communications and vaccination efforts will be crucial in mitigating the impacts of these diseases on communities nationwide.