Patents are falling in India, China and Canada, opening the door to low‑cost semaglutide generics that could sharply lower monthly bills for millions. U.S. access may still lag.

The World Happiness Report 2026 names Finland happiest again and warns heavy social media use is linked to falling wellbeing among young people, especially teen girls.

New data show Santa Rosa's Face to Face supplied 44% of county naloxone and was tied to 66% of reported reversals in 2024.

Sutter Health announced plans to acquire Minneapolis-based Allina Health in a non-cash deal that would form a roughly $26B system and promise regional investments. Local leaders say patient care and day-to-day operations will continue as usual while regulators review the deal.

Costco is recalling its Kirkland meatloaf meal kit after a supplier warned of potential Salmonella in an ingredient. Affected sell‑by dates run March 5–16, 2026; refunds available.

A new gastroenterology clinic will open in April at Sonoma Valley Hospital, with endoscopy starting in May and expanded Saturday imaging already under way. The changes aim to keep more screenings local.

Providence will stop admitting pediatric inpatients at Santa Rosa Memorial on March 27 and repurpose the eight‑bed unit for adult care, prompting concern from doctors and county advisers.

At a Santa Rosa town hall, lawmakers and health leaders warned rural hospitals and maternity services are at risk from funding cuts and razor‑thin margins.

An Oakland wrongful‑death suit and new class actions have sharpened scrutiny of Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors after reports of false low readings and deaths. Regulators are urging users to check serial numbers and switch to fingersticks when readings don’t match symptoms.

Alameda County says whooping cough is still circulating and urges up‑to‑date pertussis vaccinations, especially for pregnant people and caregivers.

A county report warns Hazel Hawkins' shutdown would send about 11,000 extra ER visits to St. Louise in Gilroy, forcing new stations and staffing.

Aedes aegypti — a bottle‑cap‑breeding, day‑biting mosquito that can spread dengue and Zika — has been detected in parts of the Bay Area; officials urge residents to clear standing water.

Wastewater scans and public‑health data show human metapneumovirus rising in parts of Northern California. The virus can cause a seal‑like 'barking' cough in young children.