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News Tips: University of Illinois Chicago

July 14, 2026  

 

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UIC Experts

Cyclosporiasis outbreak

An outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness caused by the microscopic parasite cyclospora, continues to affect people nationwide. As of July 9, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had received reports of more than 840 cases across more than 30 states. However, the actual number is likely higher due to reporting delays and underreporting by states. Previous U.S. outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce, but health officials have not identified the source of the current outbreak. Dr. Stockton Mayer, an infectious diseases specialist at UI Health, is available to discuss symptoms, treatment and steps people can take to reduce their risk, including washing hands before handling produce and thoroughly cooking fruits and vegetables.

Contact: Francesca Sacco  |  412-952-6806

Sun safety

Now that summer is in full swing, it’s important to protect your skin from overexposure to ultraviolet radiation. Too much ultraviolet exposure can damage your skin, and overexposure is responsible for more than 90% of skin cancers. Dr. Ryan Nguyen, an oncologist at UI Health and a researcher with the University of Illinois Cancer Center, said there are plenty of options for staying safe in the sun. Nguyen is available to discuss the five S's of sun safety: slop on sunscreen, slip on clothing, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses, as well as other ways to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.

Contact: Francesca Sacco  |  412-952-6806

Chicago’s parking meters

The City Council Finance Committee delayed a vote on the proposed transfer of Chicago’s parking meter lease rights from Morgan Stanley to Stonepeak Partners. The move follows questions about council members’ support for the deal and a new plan for the city to buy out the remaining lease years. Evan McKenzie, a professor of political science at UIC, can discuss the legal, financial, and political challenges of reversing privatization agreements and regaining public control of infrastructure assets. An expert on government privatization, he can also explain how Chicago’s parking meter debate reflects broader national concerns about public-private partnerships and public asset management.

Contact: Brian Flood  | 312-835-5432

Reality of GLP-1 use

GLP-1 medications have expanded treatment options for obesity, but long-term success requires more than medication alone. Alison Newman, a clinical health psychologist in the Bariatric Surgery Program at UI Health, said it is common for patients to experience weight fluctuations, including regaining some weight after reaching their lowest weight. People also may face emotional challenges related to body image, changing relationships and reactions from others about their weight or appearance. Newman can address the importance of maintaining healthy behaviors, managing expectations and developing sustainable habits for lifelong health. She is also available to discuss the psychological coping skills that support long-term success with GLP-1 medications, including navigating social and relationship changes and overcoming barriers to healthy choices.

Contact: Francesca Sacco  |  412-952-6806

 

Interested in scheduling an interview?

UIC experts are available to comment on a wide range of topics. To arrange interviews, contact University Communications staff members at news@uic.edu.

 

Editor's note:

University of Illinois Chicago is the preferred full institutional name to use in text, and UIC for second and subsequent references. Do not use a comma or a dash. As of fall 2020, UIC no longer uses the word “at” in the name of the institution.

 

UIC Events

Exhibition: "Perennial City: Experiments in Urban Gardening"

Open through Dec. 15  |  Free  |  Phone: 312-413-5353

"Perennial City" connects early urban gardening experiments at Hull-House to today’s movements for environmental justice, food access and land stewardship. Drawing on rarely seen archival materials alongside new artist commissions, the exhibition at UIC's Jane Addams Hull-House Museum explores how Chicagoans, past and present, have used gardening as a tool for creativity, care and community action. Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–4:50 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; Closed Sunday–Monday. Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St., Chicago.

View all UIC events
 

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