A measles outbreak in Texas, the worst in decades, was severely hampered by the Trump administration's interference with the CDC. The administration's actions included stalled reports, censored data, and staff layoffs, preventing the CDC from effectively responding. This resulted in delayed communication with local health officials, hindering crucial...
Health insurance costs are skyrocketing in 2026, impacting both individuals and employers. Rising medical expenses, particularly from expensive new drugs and increased emergency room visits, are driving up premiums. Insurers are seeing fewer healthy customers in individual markets, leading to a higher concentration of sicker patients. The...
A flesh-eating parasite, the New World screwworm, has been found in a person who recently traveled from El Salvador to the US. While the risk to the public is considered low, the parasite, a fly larva, poses a serious threat to livestock. The CDC confirmed the case, and...
Ian Wilkinson, sole survivor of a mushroom poisoning incident, delivered a victim impact statement at the sentencing of Erin Patterson, convicted of murdering his wife and two others. Wilkinson, a pastor, described his profound grief and loss, stating he feels "only half alive." He expressed anger at Patterson's actions...
71-year-old Tommy Fello suffered a stroke after working Christmas Eve. Initially, therapy provided minimal improvement in his left side paralysis. He then received a revolutionary Vivistim implant, stimulating his vagus nerve during rehab. This FDA-approved device, used with therapy, significantly improved his arm and hand function, providing hope...
Menopause symptoms like hot flashes and sleep problems can be eased with hormone therapy (HT). While concerns about increased cancer and blood clot risks existed, recent studies show benefits often outweigh risks for many women. HT comes in various forms, including low-dose vaginal estrogen and whole-body therapies. While...
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, despite the CDC's recent removal of this recommendation. ACOG cites numerous studies showing the safety and efficacy of the vaccines and the increased risks pregnant women and their babies face from...
A new WHO report reveals the escalating dangers of workplace heat stress due to climate change. Millions of workers globally face health risks like heat stroke and kidney failure from rising temperatures. The report urges governments, employers, and workers to collaborate on adaptation strategies, highlighting a 2% productivity...
A Missouri resident died after contracting a Naegleria fowleri infection, commonly known as a brain-eating amoeba. The infection, which is usually fatal, is contracted through the nose when contaminated water is inhaled. Symptoms include severe headache, fever, and vomiting, progressing rapidly to death within days. While rare, the amoeba...
Upcoming COVID-19 vaccine recommendations may limit free coverage to high-risk groups (65+, underlying conditions). Insurers' coverage for others will vary, potentially leading to copays or full out-of-pocket costs of up to $140. While healthy individuals can still receive the vaccine off-label, coverage isn't guaranteed. Changes to insurance...
