Tag

Brain Infections

All articles tagged with #brain infections

health2 years ago

The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Brain Activity, Blood Groups, and Children's Health

New research published in Science Advances reveals that viruses like SARS-CoV-2 can cause fusion between neurons, leading to ongoing problems in the brain. The study provides insights into the neuropathological mechanisms underlying viral brain infections and their impact on neuronal circuitry and function. The researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 can infect neurons and cause fusion between neighboring cells, resulting in the formation of multinucleated syncytia. This fusion allows the virus to spread within the neurons without release into the extracellular space, potentially leading to permanent alterations in neuronal circuitry and function. The findings suggest that viral infections can cause neurons to malfunction, representing a new neuropathological mechanism with implications for the development of treatments and interventions for viral brain infections.

health2 years ago

CDC Investigates Mysterious Spike in Rare Brain Infections in Children

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating a possible increase in pediatric brain abscesses, a rare but serious complication often caused by Streptococcus bacteria. Some areas in the US have reported higher than expected numbers of cases, including a cluster in and around Las Vegas. However, previous studies have shown mixed results, with some finding an increase in cases during the pandemic while others found no significant change. The CDC's investigation could provide new insights into the infections and their rare complications.

health2 years ago

Mysterious Spike in Rare Brain Infections Among Children Raises Concerns

Researchers have observed a recent increase in brain infections and abscesses in kids and teens, which can be complications of severe sinus infections and ear infections. The reason for the rise is not clear yet, but it may be related to the surges in children's respiratory illnesses seen this past winter, as well as the emergence of an invasive strain of strep A. Signs of severe infection or brain abscess include persistent cold- or flu-like symptoms, persistent headaches, persistent sleepiness, persistent vomiting without explanation, high fever that spikes multiple times in a day, discolored drainage from the nose, swelling of the forehead, swelling around one or both eyes, seizures, weakness, and speech or language difficulties. Treatment for brain abscesses and infections typically requires antibiotics and surgery.

health2 years ago

Pediatric Brain Infections on the Rise in Southern Nevada Cause Concern

Health officials are investigating a spike in rare brain infections among children in Clark County, Nevada. The infections, called intracranial abscess, are caused by bacteria reaching the brain and can follow sinus or ear infections. The CDC found 18 cases in 2022, compared to an average of five in previous years. Most children had cold symptoms before hospitalization, and over 80% needed brain surgery. Doctors in other parts of the country are also seeing similar increases in brain abscesses in kids. The CDC is continuing to investigate and monitor the situation.

health2 years ago

Investigation launched into possible increase of Streptococcus intermedius complications in Nevada children.

Health authorities are investigating a possible uptick in rare brain infections caused by Streptococcus intermedius in children across the US, after officials in Southern Nevada reported an increase in hospitalizations last year compared to previous years. The CDC launched a probe into the issue in 2022, but local authorities in Nevada reported another increase this year. The cause of the increased number of cases in 2022 is not clear, but potentially the increased number of cases might be due to changing respiratory viral patterns. Symptoms of intracranial infections like brain abscesses can result in a range of neurological complications, from changes in mental status to seizures.