Gepotidacin, a new antibiotic pill, works as well as standard treatments for gonorrhea. These results appeared in a large, recent study published in The Lancet. The new drug could offer a simple oral option for treating this common sexually transmitted infection.
Possible New RSV Shot Guidelines For Vulnerable Adults In Their 50s
CDC advisors voted to lower the minimum age for RSV vaccination. Adults aged 50 to 59 with risk factors may now qualify. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, voted 14-0 in favor. One member voted to abstain.
The recommendation targets adults at high risk of severe RSV symptoms. Qualifying conditions include heart disease, diabetes, asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, kidney disease, weakened immunity, and neurological disorders. These health issues are common in people over 50.
The “Urgent Threat” of Candida Auris: What You Should Know
A deadly fungus called Candida auris is spreading in U.S. hospitals. New research shows a major jump in cases since 2019. Only five infections were reported in the United States that year. By 2023, the number of cases jumped sharply to 115.
The fungus kills one in three people who become infected. It targets the elderly and people already sick or hospitalized. Experts say the spread is a growing threat to public health.
New Research Tests Treatment For Deadly Anthrax Infection
Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh have tested a new anthrax treatment. The treatment uses growth factors to help repair damaged lung tissue. It reversed advanced damage in mice with late-stage anthrax infections. This discovery could help patients who miss the usual treatment window.
Anthrax is caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. It can enter the body through the lungs, skin, or digestion. Early symptoms often look like the flu, making diagnosis difficult. Without fast treatment, anthrax becomes deadly within just a few days.
The new study offers hope for treating advanced or missed infections. Researchers believe this method could save lives in real-world outbreaks.
Surging Walking Pneumonia Cases: How To Stay Protected
Walking pneumonia cases are rising this year, especially among young children. The increase is linked to bacteria called Mycoplasma pneumoniae. These bacteria often cause mild respiratory illnesses, including walking pneumonia. While mild, walking pneumonia can still cause persistent and uncomfortable symptoms.
Cold Water Immersion: What to Know about This Popular Trend
Cold water immersion (CWI) is a growing health and wellness trend. People have used ice baths and cold showers for generations. Modern culture now promotes them as performance therapy and self-care.
A new study in PLoS One reviewed the effects of CWI. The study found that CWI reduces inflammation and stress for a short time. It also boosts immunity, sleep quality, and overall well-being.
Seasonal Flu Cases Skyrocket Past 15 Year Record
The U.S. is facing its worst flu season in 15 years. At least 24 million flu cases have been reported this season. Since October, hospitals have treated up to 650,000 flu patients. This is the highest hospitalization rate since 2017.
Flu season often peaks in January and February. Experts warn that cases could keep rising in the coming weeks.
The Eye-Opening World History of Bird Flu Since 2020
Highly pathogenic A(H5N1) bird flu first appeared in southern China in 1996. The next year, large outbreaks in poultry led to 18 human infections.
The virus was not controlled and re-emerged in 2003, spreading widely across Asia. Over time, A(H5N1) reached Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
Since 2020, 91 human cases of highly pathogenic bird flu have been reported worldwide. Here’s what to know about the outbreaks in affected locations.
Rare Strain Of Bird Flu Detected for the First Time in the U.S.
A California duck farm has tested positive for H5N9, marking the first confirmed case in the U.S. The outbreak began on November 23, 2024, after a rise in duck deaths.
H5N9 is a low-pathogenic virus that usually causes mild symptoms in birds. Officials have not reported any human infections linked to the outbreak. The virus has been detected in farmers in other countries, but no cases have been confirmed in the U.S.
Latest Kansas Tuberculosis Outbreak is the Deadliest in U.S. History
A tuberculosis (TB) outbreak has become the largest ever recorded in U.S. history. Since early 2024, officials have reported 67 active TB cases and 79 latent cases.
The World Health Organization recorded 8.2 million global TB cases in 2023. This is the highest number since WHO began tracking TB in 1995. Last year, tuberculosis once again became the world’s deadliest disease.
