📰 More cases of deadly ‘flesh-eating’ bacterial infection in popular vacation destination
An article reports on a deadly bacterial outbreak in Florida, with eight deaths and 13 confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus. Louisiana is also experiencing higher case counts, with 17 infections and four deaths in 2025. Vibrio bacteria, found in coastal waters, can enter open wounds during activities like swimming. Warmer waters and plankton blooms contribute to Vibrio growth, with potential severe infections like necrotizing fasciitis. Symptoms of Vibrio infections vary, with severe cases leading to bloodstream infections and necrotizing fasciitis. Prevention measures include avoiding swimming in open waters with open wounds and refraining from eating raw shellfish. Antibiotics, surgery, and increased fluid intake are recommended for treatment.
📰 Colorectal cancer diagnoses soar among younger adults for one key reason
The American Cancer Society (ACS) studies show a recent surge in colorectal cancer diagnoses among Americans aged 45 to 49, with a significant increase in local-stage disease cases from 2019 to 2022. The uptick in cases is attributed to first-time screening following updated recommendations for younger adults to start testing for colorectal cancer earlier. Diagnoses of colorectal cancer have been increasing annually, especially in the 20 to 39 age group and those aged 40 to 44, 45 to 49, and 50 to 54. The increase in screening among 45- to 49-year-olds has led to more early-stage diagnoses, but there is still room for improvement in screening rates and equity. Early detection through screening is crucial for improving survival rates, as the chances of a cure are high when colorectal cancer is caught in its early stages.
📰 Could chikungunya virus spread to US? Here’s what Americans should know
A mosquito-borne virus outbreak in China has raised concerns about its potential spread to the U.S. The CDC issued a Level 2 alert for chikungunya virus in Guangdong Province, with over 7,000 reported cases. Efforts to control the virus involve measures like nets, insecticide, and drones. Chikungunya cases have also been reported in Europe, transmitted by mosquitoes feeding on infected individuals. The risk of a chikungunya outbreak in the U.S. is low due to the limited presence of Aedes mosquitoes, necessary for transmission.
Dr. Paul Sax from Brigham and Women’s Hospital stated that chikungunya outbreaks in the U.S. are unlikely but could occur in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas. Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, and severe joint pain lasting weeks to months. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory drugs and vaccines for travelers to endemic regions. The outbreak in China is attributed to the monsoon season, emphasizing the importance of precautions like bug repellent and vaccinations when traveling to affected areas. The growing population of mosquitoes and ticks due to longer seasons is a concerning trend highlighted by experts.
📰 Dangerous tick-borne virus causes brain damage in vulnerable young patient
A 5-week-old baby named Lily Sisco from Boston is critically ill after being bitten by a tick while on Martha’s Vineyard. Lily developed a fever and seizures, leading to brain damage caused by an infection. Doctors suspect she may have contracted the Powassan virus, a rare disease transmitted by infected deer ticks. Health officials believe the virus is on the rise in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions. Prevention strategies for Powassan virus and other tick-borne diseases include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
📰 Majority of Americans get more than half of calories from ultra-processed foods, CDC finds
A new federal report reveals that a majority of Americans obtain over half of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods, such as burgers, sweet bakery products, snacks, pizza, and sweetened beverages. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlighted that American youth consume 61.9% of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods, while adults consume 53.0%. These foods are described as energy-dense, low in fiber, and high in unhealthy components like salt and sweeteners, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods on health. The report also indicates a slight decrease in the consumption of ultra-processed foods over the past decade, with differences in consumption patterns based on age and income levels.
The report found that on average, individuals in the U.S. consume 55.0% of their total calories from ultra-processed foods, with variations among different age groups and income levels. Young children consume fewer calories from ultra-processed foods compared to older kids, while adults aged 60 and above consume less than younger adults. Low-income adults tend to consume more ultra-processed foods than those with higher incomes. There has been a slight decline in the consumption of these foods over the past decade, with adults and kids showing a decrease in the percentage of total calories from ultra-processed sources.
The top sources of calories from ultra-processed foods among youth and adults include sandwiches, sweet bakery products, sweetened beverages, savory snacks, and pizza. Concerns have been raised by U.S. health officials regarding the current definitions of ultra-processed foods and their impact on health. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Agriculture Department are working on developing a new, uniform definition for these foods in the U.S. food supply.
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