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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a major recall of the popular yogurt YoCrunch, sold in retail chains such as Walmart, due to the detection of plastic fragments that pose a serious health risk to consumers. This step has raised concerns among shoppers and brought into question the quality control in the food industry, which has far-reaching implications for brand trust. The recall, initiated by Danone U.S., concerns a wide range of YoCrunch yogurt flavors, including consumer favorites such as "Strawberry with Granola," "Vanilla with M&Ms," and "Vanilla with Oreo." The issue is related to plastic caps used for packaging the fillings, where, according to reports from consumers, foreign fragments have been found. The FDA warns that these plastic pieces can cause oral injuries or even pose a choking hazard, making the situation especially troubling for families with children who often choose these brightly packaged yogurts. The scale of the problem The recall covers both 6-ounce single-serving cups and multi-pack sets with expiry dates from July 7, 2025, to September 4, 2025. According to sources close to Danone, the problem arose due to a malfunction on one of the production lines, where defective equipment led to plastic particles contaminating the packaging. Although Danone responded promptly, working with the FDA to remove the products from shelves, the incident has already sparked a wave of criticism on social media, where consumers share photos of plastic fragments found in the yogurts. "This is unacceptable," — says Emily Carter, a mother of two from Philadelphia who found a plastic fragment in a yogurt purchased for her daughter. "We trust these brands, and they are endangering our children." Her comment reflects broader concern: how did one of the leading companies in the food industry allow such an error? The company's reaction and further actions Danone U.S. issued a statement apologizing for the inconvenience and reassuring consumers that measures are being taken to address the problem. "The safety of our customers is our top priority," the company's statement reads. "We are working with retail chains to swiftly remove affected batches from sale." The company also urged consumers to check batch codes on packages and return the products to stores for a refund. However, for many, this may not be sufficient. The YoCrunch incident adds another item to the list of recent food recalls, prompting industry experts to question the effectiveness of quality control systems. "Such cases undermine brand trust and can have long-term impacts on sales," notes Dr. Linda Harris, a food safety expert at the University of California, Davis. She adds that companies should invest in more advanced foreign object detection technologies to prevent such incidents. What should consumers do? The FDA advises consumers to check the batch codes on YoCrunch packages and immediately cease consumption of products from the specified batches. Walmart and other retail chains have already begun removing yogurts from the shelves, and some stores have posted warning notices. Consumers can contact Danone's hotline for additional information or a refund. This incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of consumer vigilance. "Always check products before consumption, especially if they are intended for children," recommends Dr. Harris. While Danone and the FDA work to resolve the situation, thousands of American families are reviewing the contents of their refrigerators, questioning whether they can trust their favorite products.

North-eastern Ohio has found itself in the choking grip of an air quality alert issued by the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA), signaling a growing environmental crisis threatening the health of vulnerable populations. By midnight on Monday, counties Ashland, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit will be under this warning, highlighting the fragility of the balance between industrial progress and community health.It is expected that air quality in these counties will reach levels hazardous for sensitive groups — children, the elderly, and those suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. According to AirNow.gov, which monitors real-time air quality, pollutant concentrations, including ozone and fine particulate matter, may make breathing difficult and exacerbate existing health problems. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours, and regularly check official sources for updates.Root CausesNortheastern Ohio, an industrial hub with a rich history of steel manufacturing and energy production, has long struggled with air quality issues. Insiders from NOACA, who wished to remain anonymous, point to a combination of factors: stagnant weather conditions that trap pollutants, emissions from coal-fired power plants and transportation sectors, and seasonal increases in activities like lawn mowing and car refueling during hot weather. These sources, although routine, create a toxic cocktail that threatens public health."It’s not just weather or industry — it’s a systemic problem requiring collective responsibility," said one local environmental activist working with regional authorities. However, for many residents, especially in working-class communities dependent on industrial jobs, calls to reduce emissions sound like a distant utopia.Call to ActionNOACA and environmental agencies strongly urge residents to take measures to reduce pollution. The recommendations are simple but impactful: favor biking or walking, use public transportation, work from home if possible, and avoid solo car trips. Turning off engines when idling, refueling after sunset, and refraining from lawn mowing during alerts can also help. Although these actions may seem minor, they are critical for reducing ground-level ozone, which forms under sunlight and emissions.Global Context, Local ImpactThe Ohio warning reflects a broader national trend. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air quality in many regions is worsening due to climate change, which amplifies heatwaves and stagnant air conditions. In 2024, the EPA reported that over 120 million Americans live in areas with periodically hazardous air pollution levels. For Ohio, where industry and transportation remain economic pillars, this issue takes on particular significance.Residents of Cleveland and nearby towns such as Akron and Youngstown feel it firsthand. "I see my kids coughing after playing outside," says Maria Gonzales, a mother of two from Lorain. "We can’t just stay at home all the time, but what can we do?" Her words reflect the frustration of many who feel trapped by circumstances.Looking to the FutureEnvironmental experts and officials agree that temporary measures like limiting outdoor activities are only short-term solutions. Long-term changes will require investments in cleaner energy sources, modernization of public transportation, and stricter regulations for industrial facilities. However, Ohio’s political climate, where economic priorities often outweigh environmental concerns, makes rapid progress difficult.As the region prepares for yet another day of choking air, the call to action is clear: individual efforts, multiplied by thousands, can make a difference. But is that enough to clear the skies over Ohio? The answer depends on whether communities, industry, and government are willing to unite for one shared goal — clean air for all.

In Portage Lakes State Park, where picturesque lakes attract thousands of visitors every summer, tragedies in recent years cast a shadow over this natural paradise. Following several drowning incidents, including the recent death of a 49-year-old man from Akron on June 24, local resident Cory Evans launched a campaign to improve safety in the park. His increasingly popular petition calls for decisive changes — from clearer signage and fencing to increased numbers of lifeguards — to save lives and make the park safer for everyone. Portage Lakes, located just a few miles from Akron’s industrial heart, has long been a favorite spot for families, anglers, and water recreation enthusiasts. On a hot Tuesday, when temperatures reached 29°C, park beaches buzzed with children’s laughter and the splash of waves. “It’s a little slice of heaven,” says Evans, who grew up swimming in these waters. But for him and many others, the joy of recreation is overshadowed by concerns over safety measures. “If we can save even one life, it will be worth it,” emphasizes Evans, whose personal experience — losing his uncle in a frozen lake accident — motivated him to take action. His online petition calls for the installation of clear warning signs, improved fencing around swimming areas, hiring additional lifeguards and rangers, and educational programs about water safety. Evans has already discussed these ideas with local legislators, hoping that funding for these initiatives will be included in the next state budget. Local visitors share his concerns. Patrick Smith, a resident of Green who brought his grandchildren to the beach, notes: “There are no lifeguards here, so you’re swimming at your own risk. I closely watch over the kids.” Similarly cautious is Ben S., a father of three from Michigan, who insists that his younger children always wear life jackets. “We love this place, but safety comes first,” he says. The recent drowning incident on June 24, when a man went underwater near the park’s main beach and his body was only found hours later, served as a tragic reminder of the risks. The Franklin Fire Department confirmed that this is not the first such incident in the park. The lack of lifeguards and inadequate safety infrastructure raise increasing public concern. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), responding to inquiries, stated that safety is their “top priority.” A spokesperson emphasized the importance of safe swimming rules, such as wearing life jackets and supervising children. However, critics, including Evans, believe these recommendations are only half-measures that do not address systemic issues like staffing shortages or outdated infrastructure. Evans’s petition is not just a call for change but also an attempt to reimagine how Ohio cares for its natural treasures. “This park can be safer and more inviting for everyone,” he says. “We must act before another tragedy occurs.” In a state where public parks are an economic and cultural asset, raising awareness about safety could serve as an example for other regions facing similar challenges. As the petition gains support and families continue to enjoy sunny days on the lakes, the question remains: can Ohio find a balance between preserving the natural beauty of Portage Lakes and protecting those who come here for recreation? For Evans, the answer is clear: “Safety is an investment in the future of this place.”

The United States has found itself at the epicenter of the worst measles outbreak in the last three decades, and this is only mid-year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of July 2025, the country has recorded 1,288 cases — a figure that surpasses the record set in 2019, when America nearly lost its status as a measles-free country. Experts warn: if the virus continues to spread unabated throughout the year, this status could be lost permanently. This crisis, according to healthcare professionals, is not only a medical but also a social catastrophe, reflecting deep-rooted issues in attitudes toward vaccination. "It's like a canary in a coal mine," notes Lauren Gardner, head of the measles tracking database at Johns Hopkins University. "We see a problem that is likely to only worsen." Record Numbers and Human Losses According to CDC data, the current outbreak exceeds the 2019 figures by 14 cases but is still far from the peak of 1991, when 9,643 cases were registered. However, the tragedy has already claimed three lives: two children in West Texas and one adult in New Mexico. Dozens were hospitalized. The largest outbreak, which began five months ago in communities with low vaccination rates in West Texas, has revealed systemic gaps in healthcare. Katherine Wells, director of the Lubbock County Department of Health, reported that there have been no new cases in her region for the past 50 days, offering cautious optimism. "But I am concerned that the virus is already spreading to other parts of the country," she added. Active outbreaks have been recorded in 14 states, while in four others they have recently subsided. Vaccination: Available but Rejected Measles is a disease preventable with the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella), which has 97% effectiveness after two doses. In 2000, the World Health Organization and CDC declared that measles had been eliminated in the USA. However, today, despite widespread availability of vaccines, the return of the disease causes a sense of "melancholy" among medical professionals, according to Dr. Jonathan Temte, a family physician from Wisconsin who helped confirm this achievement 25 years ago. CDC data from 2023–2024 shows that only 92.7% of preschool children in the USA received the MMR vaccine — below the critical threshold of 95% needed to prevent outbreaks. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the vaccination rate among children against measles fell by nearly 80% in over 2,000 districts where data is available. "When we have an effective tool but people reject it without valid reasons, it’s frustrating," Temte noted. Outbreaks in Texas, as well as in Chihuahua (Mexico, 2,966 cases), Ontario (Canada, 2,223 cases), and Alberta (Canada, 1,246 cases), are linked to communities with low vaccination rates, notably Mennonite communities. While Mennonite churches officially do not oppose vaccination, conservative communities historically demonstrate distrust of government initiatives and have low immunization levels. A similar situation was observed in 2019, when outbreaks in New York were linked to Orthodox Jewish communities. Wells emphasizes the chronic underfunding of vaccination programs. "Local health departments do everything possible, but without adequate resources, we cannot change this trend," she said. According to her, significant investments in healthcare infrastructure are needed to stop the spread of the disease. Looking to the Future The current measles crisis is not only a medical challenge but also a mirror reflecting broader societal issues — distrust in science, misinformation, and insufficient funding of public health. If urgent measures are not taken, the USA risks losing its status as a measles-free country, which could have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s health. "We have a vaccine that works, but we cannot force people to use it," Gardner summed up. "This is a fight not only against a virus but also against convictions."

CLEVELAND, Ohio — While American healthcare grapples with economic hardships and rising inequality, four hospitals in Northeast Ohio stand out as beacons of social responsibility. According to the Lown Institute’s Hospital Social Responsibility Index for 2025-2026, MetroHealth System leads the region, ranking 36th nationally, followed by Cleveland Clinic South Pointe (41), Summa Health Akron (95), and UH Portage Medical Center (102). These institutions, recognized among the top 125 in the “Honor Roll” list out of more than 2,700 intensive care hospitals nationwide, demonstrate how healthcare facilities can go beyond clinical excellence to strengthen the communities they serve. In a state where economic challenges and disparities in healthcare access remain acute, their work is more relevant than ever.The Lown Institute, an unbiased analytical center in Boston, evaluates hospitals based on over 50 indicators covering fairness, value of care, and patient outcomes. The ranking, published on June 24, 2025, relies on data from Medicare, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, and other sources to assess how hospitals invest in communities, avoid excessive procedures, and provide inclusive care. “High-value healthcare is only meaningful when it is accessible to all,” said Vikas Saini, president of the Lown Institute. “These hospitals show what it truly means to be a community partner.”MetroHealth: A Leader with a Human FaceMetroHealth, ranked on the “Honor Roll” for the fourth consecutive year, received the highest “A” grades for fairness, value, and outcomes, ranking second among Ohio hospitals and first in categories such as “community benefit” and “avoidance of overuse.” Its initiatives, including the School Health Program, which provides medical services in over 25 schools in Cuyahoga County, and partnerships with the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, highlight its commitment to vulnerable populations. The BREAST/Amigas Unidas program, a bilingual initiative aimed at educating Latina women about breast cancer, exemplifies culturally sensitive community health approaches. “No other hospital in America has a more dedicated staff,” declared Michelle Alexander-Reger, President of MetroHealth, emphasizing that their mission — “hope, health, and humanity” — underpins every action.Despite a $4.6 million deficit in 2024 due to increasing uncompensated care and staffing shortages, MetroHealth continues to expand its initiatives, including a new outpatient center opening in 2026 and a pharmacy in Brooklyn to improve access to medications. These efforts contrast with the broader picture in Ohio, where many hospitals face financial difficulties but not all invest as generously in their communities.Cleveland Clinic South Pointe: Listening to the NeighborsCleveland Clinic South Pointe, ranked 41st nationally, has been named to the “Honor Roll” for the second time. Located in Warren'sville Heights, this hospital was recognized for its efforts toward equitable access to care and avoiding unnecessary procedures. Programs such as a $52.5 million investment to eliminate lead contamination in Cleveland homes and mentorship initiatives for local entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups reflect its social impact ambitions. “We are transforming communities by listening to our neighbors and collaborating with partners,” said Cleveland Clinic, emphasizing its holistic partnership approach.However, despite its reputation for clinical excellence, the main Cleveland Clinic campus ranked fifth among 20 American hospitals with the poorest community cost-to-benefit ratio relative to received tax benefits, prompting criticism about its “fair contribution.” This contrast highlights the gap between clinical achievements and social responsibility, a focal point of the Lown methodology.Summa Health Akron: Three Years of RecognitionSumma Health Akron, ranked 95th, has made the Honor Roll for the third time, demonstrating consistent community commitment. Its programs, such as mentoring Black students aspiring to medical careers and investments in preventive screenings, have received praise. “This recognition reflects the compassionate care our staff provides every day,” said Iriel Hopkins, Director of Community Relations. Despite an $8 million operating loss in 2024, Summa remains a leader in the Akron market, though its upcoming merger with venture firm General Catalyst, valued at $485 million and expected to finalize in mid-2025, raises concerns about future healthcare accessibility.UH Portage: A New Name in the RankingsUH Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, ranked 102nd on its first appearance on the “Honor Roll,” is distinguished by initiatives focused on pregnant women and fighting food insecurity. A mobile diagnostic center for obstetric ultrasounds and free farmers’ markets in three low-income areas, in partnership with Kent State University, help families access healthy foods and education. “We are investing in our communities’ future,” states UH, highlighting its focus on social determinants of health. However, the main UH Cleveland Medical Center ranked sixth in Ohio for the poorest community cost-to-benefit ratio, indicating uneven progress within the system.Challenges and Broader ContextThe Lown ranking emerged at a critical moment for Ohio hospitals, which are facing inflation, staffing shortages, and possible Medicaid cuts affecting 770,000 residents. MetroHealth, Summa, and UH reported financial losses in 2024, while Cleveland Clinic posted a surplus of $980 million, underscoring regional economic disparities. Despite these challenges, recognized hospitals exemplify how targeted investments in equity and public health can yield positive results. For instance, MetroHealth’s Institute for H.O.P.E. screens patients for social needs like housing and food security, connecting them with local resources, while UH Portage educates families on healthy, budget-friendly eating.The national Lown ranking is led by Duke Regional Hospital in North Carolina, followed by institutions in Tennessee, Texas, and Colorado, reflecting diverse approaches to social responsibility across the country. However, the Lown methodology’s emphasis on fairness and avoidance of overuse contrasts with traditional rankings such as U.S. News, where only two of the top 20 hospitals received an “A” grade for fairness. This gap underscores Lown’s unique perspective, challenging hospitals to rethink their roles as community anchors.Looking AheadAs Northeast Ohio continues to face economic and social challenges, the commitment of these four hospitals — MetroHealth, Cleveland Clinic South Pointe, Summa Health Akron, and UH Portage — serves as a model for others. Their programs, from school clinics to farmers’ markets and educational initiatives, demonstrate that hospitals can be more than healthcare providers — they can be catalysts for change. Yet, criticisms directed at Cleveland Clinic and UH main campuses for inadequate community investments serve as a reminder that even leading systems have room for improvement. In a region where health disparities remain a pressing issue, these institutions stand at the forefront of the battle for a fairer healthcare system — and their efforts may inspire others.

Impact on the reputation of organic products: Alma Pak International LLC, a leading supplier of fruits, was forced to recall 12,000 pounds of organic blueberries after the detection of potential listeria contamination. This step, announced by federal health authorities, raised concerns about food safety and highlighted the fragility of supply chains in an era of heightened consumer safety standards.The recall, which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified as the highest risk level — Class I, involves 400 cases of 30-pound frozen blueberries shipped exclusively to a distributor in North Carolina. The product, marked with batch numbers 13325 G1060 and 13325 G1096, was removed after a routine test detected Listeria monocytogenes — a bacteria that can cause serious, and sometimes fatal, illnesses.According to the FDA, none of the batches reached retail store shelves or consumers, and no cases of illness have been reported so far. However, the scale of the recall and its classification as a Class I alert indicate the seriousness of the potential threat. Listeriosis caused by this bacteria poses a particular danger to young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. In pregnant women, the infection can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, or premature labor, while in healthy individuals, symptoms typically include fever, headache, nausea, and diarrhea.Alma Pak initiated the recall on June 9, and on July 1, the FDA elevated its status, signaling a "reasonable likelihood" of serious health consequences if contaminated berries are consumed. In a press statement, company representatives emphasized that they have immediately intensified sanitation protocols and monitoring at their facilities. “We take the safety of our customers very seriously,” said Ré.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Lake Erie, the jewel of the Great Lakes, attracts thousands of visitors each summer with its sandy beaches and cool waves. For many families in Northeast Ohio, a day at Edgewater or Headlands beaches is a sun-filled and laughter-filled tradition. But behind this idyllic picture lie hidden threats: E. coli bacteria lurking after storms, and toxic algae blooms that can turn carefree recreation into a dangerous adventure. While officials assure that swimming in Lake Erie is mostly safe, experts and locals urge checking conditions before jumping in the water. Bacteria in the waves The Ohio Department of Health, in collaboration with local agencies, closely monitors water quality at dozens of beaches along the 312-mile shoreline of Lake Erie. Weekly, lab technicians collect samples to check for levels of E. coli bacteria — an indicator of fecal contamination often entering the water after heavy rains through farm runoff, sewage systems, and city streets. Elevated levels of these bacteria can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin infections, and in rare cases, more serious complications. When tests indicate danger, warning signs appear at beaches, and information is updated on the BeachGuard website (publicapps.odh.ohio.gov/beachguardpublic). However, the system has flaws: due to laboratory incubation periods, results can be delayed by 45–48 hours, leaving beachgoers in the dark about current water conditions. “You can be swimming in contaminated water even without knowing it,” says Emily Samples, an ecologist at Cleveland State University studying Lake Erie water quality. To bridge this gap, the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD), in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, developed predictive models for six key beaches: Edgewater and Villa Angela in Cleveland, Huntington in Bay Village, Yuklid Beach, and Headlands in Mentor. These models account for wind direction, wave height, and water clarity, providing real-time estimates of contamination likelihood. Results are available on neorsd.org and pa.water.usgs.gov/apps/nowcast. In 2024, for example, the model accurately forecasted a spike in E. coli at Edgewater Beach after a July storm, helping to prevent widespread illnesses. Toxic algae threat If E. coli bacteria are an invisible danger, harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a threat visible to the naked eye. Late summer, especially in western Lake Erie, the water can be covered with green or bluish films caused by cyanobacteria. These algae, fed by nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff, produce microcystins — toxins that cause rashes, nausea, eye and throat irritation, and in severe cases, can damage the liver or nervous system. Pets frequently drinking water at beaches may face fatal consequences if they contact algae. “Algal blooms are not just an aesthetic issue; they are a public health crisis,” says Dr. Sarah Wilkins, a toxicologist at Ohio State University. In 2014, a bloom in western Erie forced Toledo officials to shut off water supply for 400,000 residents for three days when toxins infiltrated the system. While the eastern part of the lake where Cleveland is located is less affected, in 2023 a localized bloom at Headlands Beach led to a temporary closure of the beach. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) has implemented warning systems: blue signs indicate possible algae presence, and red signs prohibit contact with the water. Information is updated on epa.ohio.gov and duplicated on BeachGuard. However, activists like Joel Ortiz of Lake Erie Advocates criticize authorities for slow responses. “Warnings often come too late, and farmers and industry polluting the lake dodge responsibility,” he says, referencing longstanding lawsuits against agribusinesses. Broader context Lake Erie’s problems reflect a global freshwater crisis. The Great Lakes hold 20% of the world’s surface freshwater reserves, but agricultural pollution, climate change, and aging infrastructure threaten their ecosystems. In 2022, Congress allocated $1 billion through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for lake cleanup, but experts argue this is insufficient. In Northeast Ohio, where sewer systems are often overwhelmed during storms, up to 4 billion gallons of untreated sewage flow into the lake annually. For local residents like 34-year-old Anna Rodriguez of Cleveland, who takes her children to Edgewater Beach every summer, these threats cause her to rethink plans. “I love the lake, but I always check BeachGuard first,” she says. “I don’t want my kids to get sick from contaminated water.” Her concerns are shared by thousands, especially after a spike in skin infections at beaches in 2024, when a storm on Villa Angela marked a record high E. coli level. What to do before heading to the beach? Experts recommend several simple steps to ensure a safe visit to Lake Erie. First, check BeachGuard and NEORSD’s forecast models before leaving home. Second, avoid swimming for 24–48 hours after heavy rains, when contamination risk is highest. Third, pay attention to algae bloom signs — green streaks or foam on the water — and keep pets away from the shoreline. Finally, if you come into contact with the water, rinse your skin thoroughly to prevent irritation. While Ohio fights for clean waters, Lake Erie remains a source of both joy and concern. For those along its shores, deciding to dive into the waves is not just about bravery but also awareness. In a world where nature increasingly challenges humans, beach safety depends on whether we are willing to heed warnings.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — In a city that has not yet forgotten the wounds of the pandemic, Cleveland's wastewater signals a warning: the level of COVID-19 virus has risen by more than 250%, warning of an approaching wave of infections bearing down on the community. On Friday, June 13, 2025, the Cleveland Department of Health announced a public health emergency, urging residents to get vaccinated, wear masks, and remain vigilant to contain the unseen threat already gaining momentum. "These are not just numbers; they are a harbinger of what awaits us in a week or two," — stated Department of Health Director David Margolius at an urgent press conference. Data collected at the Easterly wastewater treatment plant, serving the northeastern part of the city, showed a sharp spike in the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 virus, exceeding thresholds set by the Ohio Department of Health. According to Margolius, this increase is the highest since early 2024, when a similar surge preceded the fall hospitalization wave. Wastewater as a mirror of the epidemic Monitoring wastewater, which has become the gold standard of epidemiological surveillance since the 2020 pandemic, allows detection of the virus even among those who do not test or show symptoms. In Cleveland, this system, implemented in collaboration with the Northeast Regional Sewer District of Ohio, has been operational since 2021 and has repeatedly helped forecast outbreaks. However, current indicators, which include not only COVID-19 but also rising influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), paint a grim picture: the city is on the verge of a "triple threat" of respiratory infections. "It's like a radar that sees a storm before it hits," explains Dr. Amy Edwards, an infectious disease specialist at MetroHealth Medical Center. According to her, rising viral loads in wastewater usually precede increases in hospitalizations by 7–14 days, giving authorities valuable time to respond. But this time, the scale of the spike is especially concerning: in some Cleveland neighborhoods, such as West Side, virus concentrations have tripled over two weeks. The city on the brink The declaration of a public health emergency is accompanied by several recommendations: updating COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, wearing masks in public places for those with symptoms, and self-isolation at the first signs of illness. The city is also expanding access to free testing and vaccines by opening additional sites in community centers and libraries. "We are not returning to lockdowns, but we are asking everyone to do their part," — emphasized Margolius, acknowledging community fatigue from pandemic restrictions. Cleveland, where the COVID-19 vaccination rate stands at 62% among adults (below the national average of 68%), faces additional challenges. Insiders from the Department of Health report that vaccination campaigns are hampered by misinformation on social media and skepticism, especially in underserved neighborhoods such as Hough and Collinwood. In 2023, a similar wastewater spike led to hospital overloads, including at Cleveland Clinic, where 20% of ICU beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients. The broader context The situation in Cleveland reflects a troubling national trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 levels in wastewater are rising in 22 states, including Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan. The new Omicron subvariant, known as XEC, which evades immunity from previous vaccines, is believed to be a primary driver of this surge. Cleveland also reports an increase in influenza A (H3N2), posing a double burden on the healthcare system ahead of the winter season. Local hospitals are already preparing for the worst. University Hospitals reported a 15% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations in the past week, and MetroHealth has implemented mandatory masking for staff in high-risk zones. "We cannot afford another winter like 2021," — says Dr. Edwards, recalling the collapse of the healthcare system during the Delta wave. Community voices For Cleveland residents who have endured lockdowns, lost loved ones, and economic shocks, the news of a public health emergency elicits mixed feelings. "I'm tired of this, but I understand we need to act," — says Leila Thompson, a café owner in the Tremont neighborhood, who plans to reintroduce masks for staff. Others, like 72-year-old John Carter from Glenville, are skeptical: "They panic every time, but I’ve been vaccinated three times already. What more can I do?" Mayor Justin Bibb, who faced criticism for slow responses to previous outbreaks, promised a "transparent and coordinated" response. On Friday, he announced the creation of a hotline for vaccine and testing information, and called on employers to reinstate flexible schedules for symptomatic workers. A look to the future As Cleveland prepares for a possible wave, the Department of Health promises weekly updates on wastewater and hospitalization data. But success depends on the community: can residents be persuaded to return to vaccination and vigilance? For a city proud of its resilience, this is yet another test. "We cannot control the virus, but we can control our response," — summarized Margolius. While Cleveland’s wastewater signals alarm, one thing remains clear: in the fight against the unseen enemy, vigilance and solidarity are the only weapons that can protect the city from yet another storm.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — While summer in Ohio beckons to parks and forests, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) issues a stern warning: ticks and mosquitoes, activated by warm climate, are turning nature into a battleground with deadly diseases. From West Nile Virus to Lyme disease, these tiny pests are becoming increasingly dangerous, and their presence in the state is growing at an alarming rate. As America fights climate change and its consequences, Ohio finds itself at the forefront of a new public health threat, where an ordinary walk can turn into a fight for life. Invisible enemies of Ohio During a press conference on July 5, 2025, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of ODH, painted a bleak picture. “Ticks and mosquitoes are not just bothersome insects,” he said. “They are carriers of diseases that can change people's lives.” According to him, recent weeks’ warming has awakened these parasites, making them more active in forests and parks. The focus is on West Nile Virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, and Lyme disease, spread by ticks, both of which show worrying growth in Ohio. Lyme disease, caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi transmitted through black-legged tick bites, was once rare in the state. “In the early 1990s, we recorded only 10–20 cases per year,” Vanderhoff noted. “In 2023, there were 1,300, and in 2024 — over 1,700.” As of May this year, 154 confirmed cases have been registered. Symptoms, from fever to chronic joint pain, can persist for years if not treated promptly. Another threat is Rocky Mountain spotted fever, rarer but potentially deadly, with several dozen cases annually. West Nile Virus, transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, poses no less danger. While most infected experience mild symptoms, 1 in 150 develop a severe form affecting the nervous system. In 2024, Ohio recorded 12 cases, one resulting in death — an elderly woman from Lorain County. “This is not an abstract threat,” emphasized Vanderhoff. “It is a reality for our communities.” Climate change and new challenges The increased activity of ticks and mosquitoes is no coincidence. Experts like Dr. Emily Carter from Ohio State University link this to climate change. “Warmer winters and longer summers allow ticks and mosquitoes to reproduce faster and spread to new areas,” she explains. “Ohio, with its humid forests and numerous bodies of water, has become an ideal environment.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the black-legged tick population in the state has tripled since 2000, and their active season now lasts from March to November. This trend reflects a national problem. In 2024, the US reported 50,000 cases of Lyme disease and 2,500 cases of West Nile — an increase of 20% compared to five years ago. On X, users like @OhioHiker share their concerns: “I never thought about ticks in Kiyaga Park before. Now I check myself after every walk.” The Ohio medical community is also adapting. “Doctors need to consider Lyme or spotted fever as possible diagnoses,” Vanderhoff said. “It's no longer rare as it was before.” Clinics in Cleveland and Columbus report an increase in visits with flu-like symptoms, often linked to tick bites. Protection in times of danger ODH urges residents to take precautions. Recommendations include wearing long sleeves and pants in forests, using repellents with DEET or permethrin, avoiding tall grass, and regularly checking the body after being outdoors. “Ticks like warm, humid places like armpits or groin,” Vanderhoff noted. “Checking yourself after a walk can save you from serious problems.” For mosquito protection, it is advised to eliminate standing water in gardens and use window screens. Local communities are also responding. In Medina and Akron, municipalities have strengthened park treatment programs against mosquitoes, and schools in Lakewood district are conducting safety lessons about outdoor activities. “We teach children to check their clothing and not panic if they find a tick,” says biology teacher Sarah Jenkins. “But parents are still worried.” Not everyone is satisfied, however. Columbus resident James Wheeler, who is currently recovering from Lyme disease after a hike in Hocking Hills Park, criticizes authorities for insufficient information. “I didn’t realize ticks were so dangerous until I got sick,” he wrote on X under @BuckeyeDad. “Where are the warnings in parks?” ODH admits that additional campaigns are needed and plans to expand outreach efforts this summer. Broader context The tick and mosquito problem in Ohio is a microcosm of the global crisis caused by climate change and urbanization. While the federal government allocated $1.2 billion in 2024 to combat insect-borne diseases, most funds went to southern states affected by dengue fever. Ohio, despite the rising cases, received only $15 million, which experts say is insufficient for modernizing monitoring systems or forest treatment. The political dimension complicates matters further. Debates over pesticide use to control mosquitoes face protests from environmental activists concerned about harm to bees and other insects. In Cincinnati, a recent proposal to spray insecticides in parks was rejected after a petition gathered 5,000 signatures. “We want safety, but not at the cost of nature,” said activist Laura Green. Looking ahead As Ohio prepares for the peak of summer heat, the threat of ticks and mosquitoes does not diminish. For residents like Wheeler, battling Lyme disease is a daily reality, but he remains optimistic: “I won’t let ticks steal my summer. I’ll just be more careful.” For thousands planning hikes or picnics, ODH’s warnings serve as a call for vigilance. In a state known for its natural beauty, from the Appalachian hills to Lake Erie’s shores, combating disease-carrying insects is not just a health issue but also a way to preserve the lifestyle. While scientists seek new vaccines and communities adapt, Ohio reminds America: even in the shade of trees, dangers lurk, but with caution, nature remains a source of joy.