West Nile virus season starts early – Current Data
West Nile virus activity is monitored by the CDC through the ArboNET surveillance system, with data updated every 1–2 weeks during mosquito season. Early-season case counts are typically low but increase throughout the summer as mosquito activity rises. These surveillance efforts help guide mosquito control and public health prevention strategies. Clinical Implications: Consider West Nile virus in patients with febrile illness or unexplained neurologic symptoms during mosquito season, especially in areas with reported activity. Early recognition, supportive care, and counseling on mosquito bite prevention remain key to patient management. Full Access: CDC
Respiratory Outbreak Mitigation with Point-of-Care Testing in Long-Term Care. A Randomized Clinical Trial
A multicenter randomized clinical trial evaluated whether on-site point-of-care multiplex PCR testing for respiratory viruses in nursing homes could reduce outbreaks caused by SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV. While point-of-care testing did not reduce the number or size of outbreaks, it significantly increased viral testing, improved case detection, accelerated influenza antiviral treatment by approximately 2.5 days, and reduced emergency department transfers by about four per 100 beds each respiratory season. Clinical implications: Rapid point-of-care molecular testing can facilitate earlier diagnosis and timely antiviral therapy, particularly for influenza, potentially reducing downstream emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Urgent Care centers equipped with rapid PCR testing may play an increasingly important role in antimicrobial stewardship, outbreak response, and efficient triage during respiratory virus season. Full Access: JAMA
Surveillance of Cyclosporiasis
Cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness caused by Cyclospora cayetanensis that is monitored through CDC national surveillance to identify cases and detect outbreaks. In 2025, the CDC reported 1,180 domestically acquired cases and 1,346 travel-associated cases. A total of 105 hospitalizations and no deaths were reported. Because many infections are not diagnosed, the true burden of disease is likely underestimated. Clinical implications: Consider cyclosporiasis in patients with prolonged watery diarrhea, especially during summer months or after travel or fresh produce exposure, and request specific Cyclospora stool testing. Early diagnosis, treatment with TMP-SMX when appropriate, and prompt public health reporting can improve patient outcomes and aid outbreak detection. Full Access: CDC
Prevention of Drowning: Technical Report
The 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics technical report highlights that drowning remains a leading cause of preventable death in children and emphasizes persistent disparities among high-risk populations. It recommends a layered prevention approach that includes constant adult supervision, four-sided pool fencing, swim lessons, life jacket use, and CPR training. Children with autism, epilepsy, and other developmental conditions require additional preventive counseling. Clinical Implications: Incorporate brief water safety counseling into pediatric visits, especially during warmer months. Refer any child with concerning symptoms after a submersion event to the emergency department and reinforce drowning prevention with caregivers. Full Access: AAP