Health

Public health officials are investigating a multistate outbreak of extensively drug-resistant Salmonella infections linked to certain lots of Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning on February 13, 2026, urging consumers to immediately stop using and dispose of the affected product. This outbreak highlights the growing concern over antimicrobial resistance and the potential risks associated with dietary supplements.

As of February 20, 2026, seven people across seven states have been sickened by the outbreak strain of Salmonella, with three hospitalizations reported. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported to date. What sets this outbreak apart is the strain’s resistance to many commonly used antibiotics, potentially complicating treatment if needed. This is a separate incident from a previous Salmonella outbreak linked to moringa leaf powder supplements investigated in January, according to the CDC.

What Products Are Affected?

The outbreak has been linked to specific lots of Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules distributed by Ambrosia Brands LLC. These capsules are sold in white plastic bottles with a green label and have 52 different lot codes with expiration dates in 2027. The product is available nationwide, primarily online through the company’s website (tryrosabella.com), Amazon, TikTok Shop, Shein, and eBay. Consumers can uncover the lot code on the bottom of the bottle. A recall has been initiated for the affected lots; details can be found in the CDC’s official notice.

Symptoms and What to Do

Salmonella infection typically causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 6 to 6 days of exposure. While most people recover within 4 to 7 days without treatment, severe cases can require hospitalization. Individuals at higher risk of severe illness include children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems.

The CDC recommends the following actions:

• Do not eat affected Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules.
• Throw away the capsules or return them to the place of purchase.
• Wash any surfaces or items that may have come into contact with the capsules using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
• Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe Salmonella symptoms.

Antibiotic Resistance Concerns

A particularly concerning aspect of this outbreak is the extensive drug resistance exhibited by the Salmonella strain. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the bacteria are resistant to a wide range of antibiotics, including amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, ampicillin, azithromycin, and ciprofloxacin. This resistance could limit treatment options and necessitate the use of alternative antibiotics, as noted by the CDC. The CDC is further investigating the extent of antibiotic resistance and its implications for public health.

Businesses are also advised to refrain from selling or serving the affected Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules and to thoroughly wash and sanitize any surfaces that may have been in contact with the product.

This outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when consuming dietary supplements and the potential risks associated with products that may not be subject to the same rigorous testing and regulation as traditional pharmaceuticals.

Public health officials continue to monitor the situation and investigate the source of the contamination. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed and follow the CDC’s recommendations to protect themselves and their families. The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working to determine if other products may be contributing to the outbreak.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Please share this information with anyone who may be affected and leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Santa Cruz, Bolivia – A recent event focused on optimizing agricultural practices through the use of bio-inputs and efficient fertilization techniques has drawn attention from Bolivian agricultural leaders. Jaime Hernández, gerente general of Anapo, highlighted the importance of these advancements for the nation’s agricultural sector, signaling a growing emphasis on sustainable and productive farming methods. The event underscores a broader trend within Bolivia’s agricultural community towards adopting innovative solutions to enhance crop yields and reduce environmental impact.

Bolivia’s agricultural sector is a vital component of the national economy, and initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability are crucial for long-term growth. The focus on bio-inputs – naturally derived agricultural inputs – reflects a global shift towards reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. This approach not only aims to improve soil health but also to minimize the environmental consequences associated with conventional agricultural practices. The event, while details remain limited, appears to be a key platform for disseminating knowledge and fostering collaboration among farmers, researchers, and industry stakeholders.

Hernández’s comments, as reported by Canal Rural Bolivia, emphasize the event’s core theme: the integration of fertilization strategies with effective bio-input management. This combination is seen as a pathway to increased efficiency, potentially leading to higher yields and improved profitability for Bolivian farmers. The event’s focus aligns with broader efforts to modernize Bolivia’s agricultural sector and enhance its competitiveness in regional and international markets.

The event’s timing is particularly relevant given recent developments in Bolivia’s agricultural policy. According to Canal Rural, the government recently approved a zero tariff for soybean imports until December 31st of this year, a move that has sparked debate within the soy industry. Soyeros, as reported, view the arancel zero as unnecessary and are advocating for full liberalization for exports. This policy context underscores the complex challenges and opportunities facing Bolivian agriculture, and the need for innovative solutions like those discussed at the event.

the agricultural sector in Santa Cruz is facing challenges related to water levels, as reported by Canal Rural Bolivia on TikTok. Farmers in the region have reported that over 100 families are affected by rising water levels and are requesting support from authorities in the form of heavy machinery and food supplies. This highlights the importance of resilience and adaptation in the face of climate change and environmental pressures.

The event also comes after a change in leadership at Senasag in Santa Cruz, as noted by Canal Rural Bolivia on Instagram. These administrative shifts within key agricultural institutions suggest a period of transition and potential policy adjustments within the sector.

Canal Rural, a program originating from Santa Cruz and broadcast on Unitel Bolivia, has been a consistent source of information for the agricultural community since 2006, according to El Rural. The program focuses on informing and transferring technology to producers of all sizes, and has expanded its reach to various productive zones.

Looking ahead, the success of initiatives promoting bio-inputs and efficient fertilization will depend on continued investment in research, training, and infrastructure. The ongoing dialogue between the government and the agricultural sector, as evidenced by recent discussions regarding soybean tariffs and support for affected farmers, will be crucial for shaping a sustainable and prosperous future for Bolivian agriculture. The next steps will likely involve the implementation of pilot programs to test the effectiveness of these new techniques and the development of policies to incentivize their adoption.

What are your thoughts on the role of bio-inputs in sustainable agriculture? Share your comments below and help us continue the conversation.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about agricultural practices and policies in Bolivia and is not intended to be a substitute for professional agricultural or economic advice.

The landscape of child and adolescent healthcare is undergoing a significant shift. Increasingly, pediatricians – traditionally focused on physical health – are finding themselves on the front lines of a growing mental health crisis among young people. This surge in mental health concerns, coupled with a critical shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists, is creating a pressing need for enhanced psychiatric training for pediatricians.

In 2021, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), alongside the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and the Children’s Hospital Association, declared a national state of emergency for child and adolescent mental health. This declaration underscored the severity of the situation and highlighted the urgent need for increased access to mental healthcare for youth. The reality is that many families face significant barriers to accessing specialized psychiatric care, leaving primary care physicians, particularly pediatricians, to fill the gap.

Recent research confirms this trend. A study published in Psychiatric Services by Gertner and colleagues demonstrated a marked 45 percent increase in pediatric outpatient visits to primary care physicians for mental health conditions between 2005-2011 and 2012-2019. This increase was observed across both younger children (ages 4-12) and adolescents (ages 13-17), signaling a widespread issue impacting various age groups.

Anxiety Disorders: The Leading Driver of Increased Visits

The study pinpointed anxiety disorders as the primary driver of this increase in mental health-related visits. Among children aged 4 to 12, diagnoses of anxiety disorders rose from 9 to 12.2 percent. For adolescents, the increase was even more pronounced, jumping from 14.8 to 26.4 percent. The rise in anxiety diagnoses was more significant among females, increasing from 16.7 to 26.9 percent, compared to an increase from 8.5 to 13.6 percent in males. These findings underscore the need for pediatricians to be equipped to recognize, assess, and initially manage anxiety in their young patients.

Researchers also noted statistically significant increases in mental health visits among non-Hispanic White and Hispanic youth, but not among Black youth. Further research is needed to understand the factors contributing to these disparities and ensure equitable access to mental healthcare for all children and adolescents.

The Role of Medication and the Need for Integrated Care

The study also revealed that psychiatric medications were prescribed in approximately 70 to 75 percent of pediatric mental health visits, and this rate remained consistent over the study period. Even as medication can be an important component of treatment, it’s crucial to remember that it’s often most effective when combined with psychotherapy.

Given the complexity of treating mental health conditions, particularly in developing brains, integrating psychiatric expertise into pediatric care is essential. Collaborative care models, where pediatricians work closely with child and adolescent psychiatrists as consultants, can significantly improve patient outcomes. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry advocates for such integrated approaches to ensure comprehensive care.

Preparing Future Pediatricians

The increasing prevalence of psychiatric conditions seen by pediatricians, coupled with advancements in psychiatric research, necessitates a fundamental shift in medical education. It is now imperative that pediatric residency programs incorporate meaningful experiences in child and adolescent psychiatry. This training should equip future pediatricians with the skills to not only recognize and assess common mental health conditions but also to initiate appropriate interventions and coordinate care with specialists when necessary.

The shortage of child and adolescent psychiatrists is a long-standing issue that is unlikely to be resolved quickly. Pediatricians will continue to play a vital role in diagnosing and managing mental health conditions in children and adolescents. Investing in their training is not just a matter of improving healthcare; it’s a matter of safeguarding the well-being of the next generation.

Looking ahead, continued research into the causes and effective treatments for youth mental health conditions will be crucial. Expanding access to mental healthcare services, particularly in underserved communities, remains a critical priority. The conversation around youth mental health must continue, and proactive steps must be taken to ensure that all young people have the support they need to thrive.

What are your thoughts on the role of pediatricians in addressing the youth mental health crisis? Share your comments below.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.