Health officials in North Carolina say the recent rise in cyclospora cases is likely caused by multiple sources, not just the Taco Bell lettuce outbreak. Cyclospora is a parasite that spreads through contaminated fresh fruits and vegetables, especially items eaten raw such as lettuce, parsley, and cilantro.
Key Facts
North Carolina has seen a sharp increase in cyclospora infections, with 561 cases since May 1 and 254 new cases reported just between July 14 and 21.
Officials do not believe all cases in North Carolina are linked to the Taco Bell lettuce outbreak, which is tied to shredded lettuce sourced from central Mexico.
Cyclospora is a tiny parasite that causes diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue after consuming contaminated food or water.
The parasite spreads through food or water contaminated with human feces but usually does not spread directly from person to person.
Fresh herbs and produce like parsley, cilantro, and lettuce are common carriers because they are often eaten raw.
The CDC has reported over 4,173 confirmed cyclospora cases and 308 hospitalizations in 41 states since May 1.
Health officials advise washing vegetables thoroughly, removing outer leaves of lettuce or cabbage, and cutting away damaged produce to reduce risk.
The outbreak is ongoing, and cases have risen in several states beyond North Carolina.
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President Trump has set new tariffs on goods from 60 countries, with rates between 10% and 12.5%. These tariffs started early Friday and target countries that do not effectively stop the import of products made with forced labor.
Key Facts
The new tariffs replace previous ones that expired on Friday morning.
They are based on Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
Tariffs are 10% for countries that have taken some steps to ban forced labor.
Tariffs are 12.5% for countries that fail to ban forced labor effectively.
The tariffs cover 99.4% of all U.S. imports from the 60 targeted countries.
Countries with a 10% tariff include Canada, India, Mexico, and the European Union.
Countries with a 12.5% tariff include China, Brazil, Japan, and Saudi Arabia.
The action is described as the largest U.S. measure ever to address international labor rights related to forced labor.
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The Trump administration is working to speed up approval and research of ibogaine, a powerful psychedelic drug from Africa. Ibogaine shows promise in treating addiction and mental health problems but carries some health risks. President Trump signed an executive order to help fast-track psychedelic therapies, including ibogaine, especially to benefit veterans and people with hard-to-treat conditions.
Key Facts
Ibogaine is a natural psychoactive compound from the Tabernanthe iboga shrub found in Central and West Africa.
It has been traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies and is now studied for addiction, PTSD, and depression treatment.
Ibogaine may reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms after just one session, acting as a “pattern interrupter.”
The drug’s effects last over 30 hours and can help the brain change addiction-related pathways.
Researchers caution that more large studies are needed, and ibogaine has serious safety risks, like heart problems.
In April, President Trump signed an order directing federal agencies to speed up research and approval of psychedelic medicines.
The order includes $50 million to support state-level psychedelic therapy research.
Veterans’ groups and some public figures support the effort, while there are concerns about moving too fast without enough science.
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The article discusses how wedding gift registries help couples start their new life together, but there is no similar social custom for divorces. The author shares his experience of starting over after divorce and suggests that divorce registries, where people can ask for help replacing household items, could be useful.
Key Facts
Wedding registries have existed since 1924 to guide guests in giving gifts for couples starting a home.
Many couples today ask for cash funds to help with home expenses and honeymoon costs.
The author and his ex-spouse used a cash registry called Hitchd to fund their wedding and honeymoon.
After divorce, dividing household items is difficult and often sad, since half the home must be split.
Divorce registries like Fresh Starts Registry already exist and get tens of thousands of visitors monthly.
Divorce registries help people ask for practical gifts needed for starting a new home after a split.
Social etiquette for divorce gift-giving is not well established, unlike weddings.
The author suggests that a registry for divorce gifts could make the process more graceful and less uncomfortable.
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Both drug prohibition and reform efforts agree that having good treatment and recovery services is important. The success of either approach relies on helping people with effective support to overcome drug problems.
Key Facts
Drug policies vary, but all need good treatment and recovery options.
Treatment helps individuals stop or reduce drug use.
Recovery services support long-term well-being after treatment.
Prohibition focuses on banning drugs, while reform looks for new laws or rules.
Both approaches depend on how well treatment and recovery are available and work.
Effective support can improve health and reduce harm from drug use.
Discussion on drug policy often centers around improving these services.
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Justice Elena Kagan said it is wrong to say the US Supreme Court automatically approves everything President Trump wants. She pointed out cases where the court ruled against Trump, showing the court does not always support his policies.
Key Facts
Justice Elena Kagan spoke at a judges and lawyers meeting in Washington state.
Kagan said the court is conservative but does not just follow the current president’s wishes.
The court ruled against Trump on important issues like tariffs, blocking some of his actions.
The court allowed some Trump policies on immigration, like ending deportation protections for Haitians and Syrians.
The court’s conservative majority includes three justices appointed by Trump during his first term.
The court stopped Trump’s attempt to fire a Federal Reserve governor and blocked efforts to end birthright citizenship.
Kagan said the court has stopped the executive branch from acting on some significant issues.
She joined three conservative justices in a ruling against Trump’s tariff policy, which is rare for a court with a conservative majority.
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Colt Gray, a 16-year-old, pleaded guilty to all charges related to a mass shooting at his high school in Georgia that killed two teachers and two students. The judge said Gray could receive a life sentence with or without parole, and the court will decide the final sentence.
Key Facts
Colt Gray committed the shooting at Apalachee High School in September 2024 when he was 14 years old.
The shooting killed two students and two teachers and injured others.
Gray pleaded guilty to 55 counts, including murder and aggravated assault.
There was no plea deal; both sides will present arguments for sentencing.
The sentence range is from life with parole to life without parole.
Gray used a rifle that his father gave him as a Christmas gift.
Gray’s father was convicted of murder and manslaughter related to the shooting, the first parent in the U.S. convicted due to their child’s actions.
Family members of victims shared statements about the impact of the tragedy.
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During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the New York Police Department arrested 89 people suspected of human trafficking and rescued dozens of victims. The arrests took place while fans were celebrating the soccer tournament in New York City.
Key Facts
The arrests happened during the 2026 FIFA World Cup events.
The New York Police Department led the operation.
89 people were arrested as suspected human traffickers.
Dozens of trafficking victims were rescued.
The police worked to protect victims while the city hosted World Cup fans.
The operation focused on stopping human trafficking crimes linked to the large international event.
This action highlights law enforcement efforts to combat human trafficking during major public gatherings.
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Heavy rain on Thursday caused serious flooding in parts of North Carolina, making travel difficult. Officials warned that more flooding could happen on Friday.
Key Facts
North Carolina experienced heavy rain on Thursday.
The rain caused major flooding in some areas.
Flooding created dangerous conditions on the roads.
Authorities warned about the possibility of additional flooding on Friday.
The situation affected local transportation and safety.
Weather updates were provided by news sources like CBS News.
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The Department of Justice, under President Donald Trump’s administration, has filed a lawsuit against Milwaukee. The suit challenges the city’s rule that bans law enforcement officers from wearing face masks while working, claiming this rule violates the rights of federal agents.
Key Facts
The DOJ sued the city of Milwaukee over its ban on face coverings for officers on duty.
The ban applies to all law enforcement, including federal agents.
The Trump administration says the ban is unconstitutional for federal agents.
The DOJ has won similar cases against California, Virginia, and Philadelphia.
The lawsuit argues that federal agents have the right to wear masks for safety or other reasons.
The conflict involves balancing local rules versus federal government authority.
The lawsuit was filed on a Thursday (specific date not provided).
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A federal judge has asked the Trump administration to explain why the military is offering testosterone treatment to older male soldiers but bans such hormone treatments for transgender troops. The new policy checks male soldiers over 30 for low testosterone and offers therapy to improve their physical readiness. The judge wants clarity on the differences in how hormone treatments are handled for transgender versus cisgender service members.
Key Facts
The Defense Secretary announced that male soldiers aged 30 and older will be screened for low testosterone levels.
Soldiers with low testosterone can choose to receive testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
A federal judge questioned why hormone treatments are allowed for cisgender soldiers but banned for transgender troops under Trump’s military ban.
The judge cited President Trump’s executive order banning transgender troops from receiving hormone treatment as a medical necessity.
The judge requested the Pentagon explain the reason for treating transgender and cisgender military members differently.
Medical experts expressed concern that unnecessary testosterone therapy may harm soldiers’ health and fertility.
The Pentagon has raised cost concerns about providing hormone treatments to transgender troops.
The next court hearing on this issue is scheduled for August 7.
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The Environmental Protection Agency under President Trump is proposing a rule change that would give states more control over how the public can participate in the approval process for new minor sources of air pollution, like certain gas plants and diesel generators used by data centers. This change could reduce public notice and involvement in decisions about these facilities entering or expanding in neighborhoods.
Key Facts
The EPA held a hearing on a rule proposal to shift public participation decisions for minor pollution sources to state governments.
Minor pollution sources include things like dry cleaners, auto shops, and power generators used by data centers.
Major sources of pollution require more federal and state oversight and extensive public involvement.
The proposed rule would not change pollution limits but would affect how and if the public is informed or can comment.
State laws vary widely on public notice and participation requirements for minor sources.
Some states like Georgia and Kentucky currently have stronger public involvement rules.
Environmental groups worry the change will reduce community awareness and input on new polluting facilities.
Data centers, often powered by gas or diesel engines, face local opposition that uses permitting processes to slow development.
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The White House Correspondents’ Dinner, an annual event where journalists and politicians meet, was rescheduled to July 24 after a shooting attempt in April. President Donald Trump, who had skipped the dinner during his first term, will attend this year with heightened security. The dinner raises debates about the relationship and ethics between the press and political leaders.
Key Facts
The dinner was first scheduled for April but was postponed due to a gunman trying to attack President Trump.
President Trump has changed his stance and is attending the dinner this year.
The event will be held at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Washington, DC, not the Washington Hilton.
The dinner is a fundraiser charging $480 per ticket, supporting journalism awards and scholarships.
Critics say the dinner blurs lines between reporters and politicians and can harm public trust in journalism.
The event often features celebrities and media personalities, which some say shifts focus away from serious news.
Previous dinners have seen controversial performances, like a comedian’s critical show in 2018.
The president’s attendance this year will have increased security measures due to the prior attack attempt.
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A pregnant woman was diagnosed with cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection, and had to go to the hospital. Doctors could not give her the usual antibiotic treatment because she was pregnant. The woman has recovered but remains cautious about eating raw fruits and vegetables. The FDA is investigating a new outbreak of cyclosporiasis, but the cause is not yet known.
Key Facts
Cyclosporiasis is an infection caused by a parasite.
The pregnant woman was hospitalized after being diagnosed with this infection.
Doctors could not give her the standard antibiotic because it is unsafe during pregnancy.
She has now recovered from the illness.
The woman says she will avoid feeding her family raw produce.
The FDA is looking into a new outbreak of cyclosporiasis.
The source of the outbreak has not been identified yet.
This story was reported by CBS News correspondent Carter Evans.
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A cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico has spread to nine U.S. states. The Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that four more states—Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania—are now affected, adding to the previous five states.
Key Facts
The outbreak is caused by cyclospora, a parasite that can cause illness.
The contaminated lettuce comes from central Mexico.
Nine U.S. states have reported cases so far: Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia.
The outbreak is the largest in the nation currently.
Michigan alone has seen over 7,600 cases.
Maryland also has more than 100 reported cases.
Health officials have linked the illness directly to shredded iceberg lettuce.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as it develops.
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Corey Ruiz was fatally shot by police in Madison, Wisconsin, during an attempted arrest. Friends and community members are protesting, demanding answers and accountability from law enforcement.
Key Facts
Corey Ruiz died after being shot by Madison police officers.
The shooting happened during an attempt to arrest him.
Friends of Ruiz called the incident an execution.
Protests are ongoing in Madison to seek justice.
The community wants police officers to be held accountable for the shooting.
Local news outlets, such as CBS News, have reported on the events.
The protests reflect broader public concern about police use of force.
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New polling shows Democrats leading in four key midterm election races where Republicans had the advantage before. These races include Senate contests in Iowa, Michigan, and Ohio, as well as the Ohio governor’s race.
Key Facts
Republicans previously led in these four important midterm races but have lost ground according to recent polls.
In Iowa, Democrat Josh Turek now leads Republican Ashley Hinson by 0.5%, shifting from a slight Republican lead in April.
Prediction markets still favor Republican Hinson in Iowa, giving her about a 60% chance to win.
In Michigan, Democrats have moved from trailing by 1.9% in April to leading by 1.8% in July in the Senate race.
Prediction markets give Democrats around a 70% chance to win the Michigan Senate seat.
In Ohio, Democrat Sherrod Brown has overtaken Republican Jon Husted, leading by 0.9% in recent polls.
Prediction markets see the Ohio Senate race as a close contest, with nearly equal chances for each candidate.
These races are critical for Democrats’ goal of gaining a Senate majority in the November midterm elections.
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President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs on imports from dozens of countries. These tariffs, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, target countries accused of not stopping forced labor and include some U.S. allies.
Key Facts
President Trump imposed new tariffs on products from many countries.
The tariffs are set between 10% and 12.5%.
The tariffs focus on countries accused of not addressing forced labor issues.
Some of the affected countries are U.S. allies.
The goal is to pressure these countries to take action against forced labor.
The announcement was reported by CBS News.
The tariffs affect a range of imports but specific products were not detailed.
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A seaplane carrying 11 people crashed and caught fire in Puget Sound near Seattle on July 23. All passengers were rescued safely according to officials.
Key Facts
The crash happened in Puget Sound, north of Seattle, Washington.
There were 11 people on board the seaplane.
The plane landed awkwardly in the water and then burst into flames.
Rescue teams were able to save all the passengers.
The incident was reported by CBS News, a partner of the BBC.
The accident occurred on July 23.
Authorities confirmed that everyone survived the crash.
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The article states that Todd Blanche is not suitable for the role of attorney general. It highlights that a key duty of the attorney general is to be able to say “no” to the president when necessary.
Key Facts
Todd Blanche is being evaluated for the position of attorney general.
The attorney general has a key role in advising the president and checking presidential actions.
Saying “no” to the president is an important part of the attorney general’s job.
The article claims Todd Blanche is not fit to perform this role.
No additional details about Todd Blanche’s background or reasons for this judgment are provided.
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