Department of Health Issues Warning About Likelihood of New Measles Cases in Northern Ireland
Department of Health warns of potential measles outbreak in Northern Ireland and stresses the importance of MMR vaccine. With low vaccine uptake, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and launching a catch-up campaign for individuals up to 25 years old.
Brazil Faces Surge in Dengue Fever Cases and Vaccine Shortage
Brazil is facing a significant surge in dengue fever cases, prompting a state of emergency and concerns about the country’s ability to combat the disease. The approval of the Qdenga vaccine offers hope, but limited availability has hindered widespread immunization. With a shortage of doses and a record number of deaths, the country is grappling with the impact of the climate crisis on disease proliferation.
CDC Considering Change to COVID-19 Isolation Guidance
The CDC is considering changing its isolation guidance for COVID-19, potentially advising people to rely on symptoms instead of a specific isolation period. This shift could allow individuals with mild or resolving symptoms to return to school or work. While the CDC has not officially confirmed the report, several states have already adopted similar guidelines. However, experts emphasize that testing positive for the virus still poses a risk of contagion, and caution should be exercised. The potential change reflects the evolving impact of COVID-19 and the challenges of isolation for many individuals.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Releases National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has released the National Public Health Strategy to Prevent and Control Vector-Borne Diseases in People (VBD National Strategy), marking a significant step in combating the growing threat of diseases spread by vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and lice. The strategy, developed by 17 federal departments and agencies, is a result of a four-year process initiated by the 2019 Kay Hagan Tick Act. This interagency plan aims to address the challenges related to vector-borne diseases and outlines federal priorities to detect, prevent, respond to, and control these diseases and conditions in the United States.
Dengue Fever Outbreak in Brazil Raises Concerns for Americas
Brazil is facing a significant outbreak of dengue fever, with health experts warning of a potential health crisis across the Americas. The Health Ministry of Brazil has issued a warning, anticipating over 4.2 million cases of dengue fever this year, surpassing the 4.1 million cases reported for all 42 countries in the region by the Pan-American Health Organization last year. Experts attribute the current amplified problem to various factors, including El Niño and climate change, leading to an increase in mosquito breeding sites. The virus is expected to progress through the continents, posing a threat to other countries.
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…