Global Cholera Outbreak Causes Concern
A multi-country outbreak of cholera has caused concern worldwide, with over 787,000 reported cases and 5,500 deaths in 31 countries. The shortage of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV) has been a major challenge, with demand doubling the available supply. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the global resurgence of cholera as a grade 3 emergency, with the risk assessed as very high. For the latest data on the outbreak, the WHO Global Cholera and AWD Dashboard is available for reference.
Deadly Bacterial Infections Spread in Tap Water, CDC Warns – Are Your Faucets Safe?
CDC warns of deadly bacterial infections spreading in tap water, including legionella and ‘forever chemicals.’ While generally safe to drink, experts advise against using tap water in certain ways to avoid potential illness and infection, such as in CPAP machines, humidifiers, and nasal irrigation. Babies are particularly vulnerable to the potential risks of tap water, including elevated nitrate levels.
Dengue Fever Spreading Across South America
Dengue fever is spreading rapidly in South America, with Brazil alone recording over 1.5 million cases and 390 deaths this year. The disease is overwhelming hospitals and prompting fumigation efforts in major cities. Epidemiologists attribute the rise in cases to global temperature increases, warning that the crisis could spread to the US and Europe as well.
Challenges Faced by Nigeria’s Disease Control Agency
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) faces challenges in addressing epidemic-prone diseases, including inadequate funding, substandard healthcare infrastructure, and compromised security. To combat these hurdles, the NCDC advocates for increased investment in public health initiatives, strengthening partnerships, and implementing innovative disease prevention strategies. The agency is actively preparing for future outbreaks and responding swiftly to recent outbreaks of diseases such as meningitis, measles, Lassa fever, cholera, and diphtheria across different states.
Deadly Outbreak of Parrot Fever Hits Europe
Deadly outbreak of parrot fever in Europe has led to five deaths, with symptoms including headache, muscle pain, and fever. Austria, Denmark, and Germany have reported an increase in cases, with suspected human-to-human transmission being rare.
Peru Declares Health Emergency Due to Surge in Dengue Fever Cases
Peru declares health emergency in response to surge in dengue fever cases, with at least 32 deaths reported. El Nino weather pattern creates favorable conditions for mosquitoes to breed and transmit the viral infection, leading to 31,300 recorded cases in the first eight weeks of the year. Health Minister emphasizes severity of situation and declares emergency in 20 of Peru’s 25 regions.
Measles Outbreak at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Florida
Parents of students at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, Florida, have the option to keep their children at home due to confirmed cases of measles. Broward Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata announced that Thursday is the deadline for parents to decide whether their vaccinated or unvaccinated children will stay home for the next 21 days and engage in online continuing education with individualized assignments, emphasizing that it will not be a virtual experience. The school reported 6 confirmed cases of measles and a total of 33 unvaccinated students. As district officials await further directives, they continue to focus on cleaning and sanitizing the school, with no indication of broader county-wide issues at present.
Norovirus Cases on the Rise in the US, Especially in the Northeast
Cases of norovirus are on the rise in the US, particularly in the Northeast, with over 12% of tests coming back positive for the highly contagious virus. Despite the increase, current levels are still below those observed at the same time last season. Norovirus outbreaks are most prevalent in the late fall, winter, and early spring, and the virus causes millions of illnesses annually. The CDC recommends preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and proper food preparation to avoid illness.
Measles Cases on the Rise in the United States Despite Widespread Vaccine Availability
Measles cases are on the rise in the United States, reflecting a decline in vaccine confidence, despite the availability of a life-saving vaccine. Recent reports confirm multiple cases of measles among children in Broward County, Florida, with concerns raised over the state’s Surgeon General’s statements potentially undermining the use of vaccines. The CDC has issued an alert to clinicians urging vigilance, as most cases were identified in unvaccinated children and adolescents. Experts emphasize the need for high vaccination coverage to prevent future outbreaks of preventable diseases.
Bromyard Community Hospital Closed to Visitors Due to Norovirus Outbreak
Bromyard Community Hospital in Herefordshire has closed to visitors as a preventative measure against the spread of Norovirus. Visiting the inpatient ward is restricted to compassionate grounds, with the aim of protecting patients and visitors. Hand hygiene and disinfection are crucial in preventing the spread of the highly contagious virus.