Costco Recalls Meal Kit Over Salmonella Concerns Costco has issued a recall for a meal kit containing Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall notice stated that the product, identified by Item #30783, is being recalled because an ingredient supplier, Griffith Foods Inc., has initiated a recall of an ingredient used in the meal. The supplier cited the potential for contamination with Salmonella, prompting Costco to take action. The affected meal kits have sell-by dates ranging from March 5 to March 16. These products were distributed to Costco locations across 26 states, including California, as well as Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Customers who purchased the meal kit are advised not to consume it and are encouraged to return it for a full refund. Costco expressed regret for the inconvenience caused by the recall. The company emphasized that no illnesses have been reported as a result of the recalled product. Salmonella infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These symptoms typically appear six hours to six days after infection and usually last four to seven days. The CDC also noted that infections can be particularly severe in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may require hospitalization. Costco’s recall notice serves as a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety, highlighting the importance of adhering to food safety guidelines. The Associated Press contributed to this report.#costco #cdc #salmonella #griffith_foods_inc #associated_press
Bolivia's Chikungunya Outbreak Continues to Prompt Travel Advisories The chikungunya outbreak in Bolivia's Santa Cruz department has seen a slight decline in new cases, according to the Departmental Health Service (SEDES). Epidemiologist Carlos Hurtado reported that the latest epidemiological week recorded 655 confirmed cases, a reduction of about 300 compared to the prior week. This brings the total number of cases in Santa Cruz, the primary epicenter of the outbreak, to 4,283 as of March 9, 2026. Despite the drop, the positivity rate remains high at 51%, meaning over half of those tested are infected with the East/Central/South African genotype of the virus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, urging travelers to take precautions such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and considering vaccination where available. Bolivia is not the only country experiencing chikungunya cases this year. Global data indicate over 29,000 cases and 85 fatalities have been reported by early March. The main vaccine available in the U.S. and select countries is VIMKUNYA®, a non-live virus-like particle vaccine developed by Bavarian Nordic A/S. Approved by the U.S. FDA in 2025, the vaccine is now accessible at travel clinics and pharmacies. The outbreak highlights ongoing challenges in managing mosquito-borne diseases. While Bolivia's situation shows some improvement, the broader context of the epidemic underscores the need for continued vigilance. Travelers are advised to stay informed about regional health advisories and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection.#chikungunya #bolivia #santacruz #cdc #bavarian_nordic
