Active Public Health Outbreaks in Maryland
As of late November 2025, Maryland is managing a complex public health landscape characterized by a declared state of emergency regarding food access, a significant resurgence of pertussis (whooping cough), and active surveillance for respiratory viruses and avian influenza. The following report details the most critical active alerts and outbreak data derived from the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), CDC, and local news sources.
CRITICAL ALERT: State of Emergency (Food Security)
Effective November 5, 2025: Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Emergency following the suspension of federal SNAP benefits. This administrative "outbreak" of food insecurity affects approximately 680,000 Marylanders, including 270,000 children.
Public Health Impact: Immediate risk of nutritional deficits and increased strain on food banks. The state has deployed $10 million in emergency funding to mitigate health risks associated with sudden food loss.
Respiratory Virus Surveillance (2024-2025 Season)
Maryland is currently in the early stages of the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season. While overall activity for Flu and COVID-19 remains "Low" to "Moderate," there is a notable divergence in Pertussis cases, which have seen a dramatic increase compared to previous years.
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Surge
Status: Active Outbreak
Cases have returned to and exceeded pre-pandemic levels. The outbreak is statewide, with significant clusters in Anne Arundel County and Western Maryland.
Combined Respiratory Activity
Flu & RSV: Activity is increasing, particularly RSV in the region.
COVID-19: Hospitalizations remain stable but are expected to rise with holiday travel.
Active Food Safety & Product Recalls
The following active recalls specifically affect Maryland consumers as of late November 2025. These items should be removed from circulation immediately.
| Product | Risk Factor | Date Issued | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegmans Locatelli Pecorino Romano | Listeria monocytogenes | Nov 26, 2025 | Active Recall |
| Chef Brand Milk Pan (Shata Traders) | Lead Contamination | Nov 24, 2025 | Do Not Use |
| Organic Moringa Leaf Powder | Salmonella | Nov 14, 2025 | Active Recall |
Ongoing Surveillance: Avian Influenza (H5N1)
While the acute phase of the early 2025 outbreak has stabilized, sporadic detections continue. The most recent significant activity was reported in September 2025, involving a backyard flock in Anne Arundel County.
- Human Risk: Remains low, but surveillance has been heightened.
- Innovation: University of Maryland Medical System is now using AI tools in emergency departments to flag patients with potential exposure to infected poultry, identifying "needle in a haystack" cases that standard screening might miss.