The H5 bird flu continues to spread across the US, with confirmed cases in humans, wild birds, poultry, and now dairy cows. While the public health risk remains low, the CDC is closely monitoring the situation and urging vigilance, particularly among workers in close contact with animals.
With the influx of illegal immigrants, a surge in tuberculosis cases is emerging across the United States. This article highlights the alarming rise in TB cases, its connection to open borders, and the lack of proper screening and isolation measures, putting American lives at risk.
The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended lowering the pneumococcal vaccination age from 65 to 50, aiming to protect a broader population from potentially life-threatening pneumococcal diseases. This decision is based on the high incidence of these infections in adults aged 50-64, emphasizing the need for wider vaccine coverage.
The Marburg virus, known for its high fatality rate, has emerged in Rwanda, prompting a global health response. Quarantine measures, health screenings, and public education campaigns are being implemented to contain the virus and prevent further spread. The outbreak has highlighted the importance of rapid response, collaboration, and ongoing research into effective treatments and vaccines.
New data from the CDC reveals that the 2024 flu shot significantly reduced the risk of flu-related hospitalizations by 35% in high-risk individuals, including young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions. The findings, based on data from five South American countries, offer promising insight into the potential effectiveness of the upcoming Northern Hemisphere flu season.
A new study by the CDC found that starting Tamiflu upon hospital admission for flu patients significantly reduces the risk of death compared to delaying treatment. The study examined data from over 26,000 hospitalized flu patients, revealing a 40% higher mortality rate in those who started treatment two to five days after admission. This emphasizes the importance of early antiviral treatment for hospitalized flu patients.
Parvovirus B19, known for its distinctive ‘slapped cheek’ rash, is experiencing a surge in the US, prompting a health alert from the CDC. While the virus is common, doctors are observing an unusual number of complications among pregnant individuals and those with blood disorders. The CDC recommends preventive measures like handwashing and avoiding close contact with those who are ill.
A conservative group, America First Legal, has secured a legal victory against the Biden administration, forcing the CDC to halt the deletion of employee emails. This comes after allegations that the CDC systematically deletes most employee emails 30 days after their departure, potentially violating the Federal Records Act. The win marks another instance of scrutiny toward the CDC and its influence in public health policy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its recommendations for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccination in older adults, now suggesting only those 75 and older or those 60 to 74 with high risk factors should get the shot. This decision is partially due to a slightly elevated risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) linked to the vaccines, though the overall risk remains low. The CDC emphasizes that the benefits outweigh the risks for adults 75 and older, and individuals in the 60 to 74 age group with risk factors should consult their doctor.
A fourth dairy worker in the U.S. has tested positive for bird flu after exposure to infected cows, the first such case in Colorado. The virus, influenza A(H5N1), can be transmitted through contact with infected milk, posing a risk to dairy workers. While pasteurized milk is safe, the CDC recommends avoiding raw milk. The infected individual recovered after treatment with Tamiflu, and the overall risk to the general public remains low, although the CDC is monitoring for unusual flu activity.
