Conditional Approval Granted to Takeda’s Qdenga Dengue Vaccine
The Drug Control Authority has granted conditional approval to Takeda’s Qdenga dengue vaccine, recommended by the World Health Organization to combat the alarming spike in dengue cases. With a reported 86.3% increase in cases and 100 deaths in 2023, the approval of the vaccine is a crucial development in addressing the public health menace of dengue fever.
Surge in Syphilis Cases Raises Concerns Nationwide
Syphilis cases have surged nationwide, with a nearly 79 percent change from 2018 to 2022. UPMC’s Dr. Ken Ho expressed concern over the rise in congenital syphilis, emphasizing the potential risks for babies. Accessing healthcare and delayed testing may be contributing to the increase. The county health department highlighted the disproportionate impact on men who have sex with men and Black residents. Dr. Ho urged raising awareness, expanding testing availability, and engaging in open conversations about protection and testing to combat the spread of syphilis.
Public Health Alert in Westchester County
Westchester County issues public health alert after several people become sick from a ‘Game Dinner’ at American Legion Post. Two people have been confirmed with toxoplasmosis after eating venison served at the event. Concern for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Health Department urges attendees to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
Reversal of Declining Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Rates
According to a study published online in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, declines in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality observed from 2010 to 2019 were reversed in 2020 and persisted through 2022. The study, conducted by Rebecca C. Woodruff, Ph.D.,…
Kisii County Initiates Mass Distribution of Treated Mosquito Nets to Combat Malaria
Kisii County residents have received a significant boost in the fight against malaria as Governor Simba Arati initiated the mass distribution of treated mosquito nets in the region. The move aims to combat the deadly malaria and other vector-borne diseases…
Philadelphia Issues Warning for Potential Hepatitis A Exposure at Local ShopRite
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has issued a warning to residents regarding a potential Hepatitis A exposure at a local ShopRite. An individual who was infected worked at the ShopRite located at 6301 Oxford Avenue from January 4 to…
UKHSA Unveils 5-Year Pathogen Genomics Strategy for Pandemic Preparedness
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has unveiled its Pathogen Genomics Strategy, outlining a 5-year plan to enhance the organization’s role in pathogen genomics for pandemic preparedness and response. The strategy aims to improve the detection and understanding of pathogens…
San Joaquin County Introduces Naloxone to Vending Machines
San Joaquin County Public Health Services (PHS) has taken a significant step towards better community health by introducing naloxone to three of its five vending machines. Naloxone, an opioid antagonist medication, is used to reverse the effects of an opioid…
Epidemic and Emerging Disease Alerts in the Pacific
Epidemic and Emerging Disease Alerts in the Pacific As of January 16, 2024, the Pacific region has been experiencing various epidemic and emerging disease alerts, with updates on the situation provided by different sources. Here are the highlights and updates…
The Global Health Impact of Major Disease Outbreaks in 2023
As the year 2023 came to a close, it was marked by the resurgence of numerous diseases, leaving an indelible imprint on global public health. The ten major outbreaks that unsettled the world included the persistent COVID-19, the emergence of…