Assessing the Pandemic Threat of Bird Flu and Its Resistance to Fever
The article discusses the potential of bird flu to become the next pandemic, examining the current scientific understanding and risks associated with the virus.
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Disease Outbreak
All articles tagged with #disease outbreak
Oropouche Virus Spreads to Seven Regions in Panama
Since late 2024, Panama has reported 613 confirmed cases of Oropouche virus across seven regions, with the disease spreading from Colombia and transmitted mainly through insect bites. Symptoms include high fever, headache, and muscle pain, with risks during pregnancy and potential neurological complications. The health authorities recommend preventive measures, and the CDC has issued travel advisories, but no vaccines are currently available.
Fennville High Student Diagnosed with Tuberculosis
A student at Fennville High School in Michigan has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis, prompting health officials to implement a response plan, identify and test those potentially exposed, and reassure the community that the disease is treatable and outbreaks are rare in U.S. schools.
Plague Suspected in Prairie Dog Die-Off in La Plata County, Colorado
A mass prairie dog die-off in La Plata County, Colorado, has raised concerns about the presence of plague, prompting health officials to investigate and advise the public on safety measures, as the disease can be transmitted through fleas from rodents and pets, but no human cases have been reported this year.
Treatable Disease Threatens 2 Million Lives in Next 5 Years
A new study warns that funding cuts to USAID could lead to a surge in tuberculosis cases, potentially causing over 2 million deaths worldwide in the next five years, especially in vulnerable countries, due to disrupted prevention and treatment efforts.
Chicago Reports Rise in Rat-Borne Leptospirosis Cases and Deaths
Chicago health officials issued a health alert after at least four cases of leptospirosis, including one death, linked to contact with animal urine or droppings, primarily from rats. The disease can cause severe symptoms and is preventable through measures like avoiding floodwaters, reducing rodent populations, and proper hygiene. Pets can also be vaccinated against leptospirosis.
Rising Mosquito Populations Fuel Spread of Tropical Diseases in Europe and Beyond
France has seen a significant rise in locally-acquired chikungunya cases this summer, with nearly 400 cases reported, up from just one last year, driven by the spread of tiger mosquitoes due to climate change, increasing the risk of vector-borne diseases across Europe.
Michigan Reports First Cases of Deer Hemorrhagic Disease in Four Counties
Michigan has reported its first four cases of epizootic hemorrhagic disease in deer for 2025, affecting deer in four counties. The disease, transmitted by biting midges, is usually localized and not contagious between deer or to humans, and infected animals can still be safely hunted and eaten. The DNR encourages reporting sick or dead deer and notes that symptoms include lethargy, disorientation, and bleeding.
US and China issue travel and health warnings amid chikungunya outbreak
US health officials issued a Level 2 travel warning for China's Guangdong province due to a chikungunya outbreak, urging travelers to take enhanced precautions against mosquito bites, as containment measures are being implemented in Foshan city amid rising cases.
Ghana's Mpox Cases Surge Past 400 Amid Rising Outbreak
Ghana has reported 37 new Mpox cases, bringing the total to 409 with one death, as the disease spreads mainly in Western regions. Authorities are procuring vaccines for high-risk groups and urging the public to avoid sharing personal items and report symptoms promptly.
Arizona Resident Dies from Pneumonic Plague, First U.S. Death in Years
An Arizona resident has died from pneumonic plague in Coconino County, marking the first such death there since 2007, with officials investigating a prairie dog die-off that may be related; health authorities emphasize precautions to prevent infection, which is rare but serious.
STD Rates in Onondaga County Surge Nearly 30-Fold in 20 Years
Syphilis cases in Onondaga County have increased nearly 30-fold over the past 20 years, with a significant rise following the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting a national trend of increasing STD rates and highlighting ongoing public health challenges.
Hawaii Honeymoon Destination Faces Rise in Pertussis Cases Amidst Measles Concerns
Hawaii is experiencing a rise in pertussis cases, with 108 reported this year, surpassing last year's total, amid declining vaccination rates. Health officials warn that the highly contagious bacterial disease can cause severe complications, especially in unvaccinated children. The outbreak highlights concerns over vaccine hesitancy, which could lead to larger outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles across the US, where vaccination rates are falling and the risk of a significant resurgence is increasing.
Whooping Cough Cases Surge Across Multiple U.S. States
California is experiencing a significant rise in whooping cough cases, with 1,744 reported statewide by the end of September, compared to fewer than 300 last year. Infants, the immunocompromised, and those with asthma are at higher risk. The surge is attributed to the easing of COVID-19 preventive measures, which had previously reduced transmission of respiratory illnesses. Vaccination remains crucial, as it can mitigate the severity of the disease. The San Francisco Bay Area and San Diego County have the highest per capita rates in the state.
Arkansas Faces Alarming Rise in Whooping Cough Cases Among Youth
The Arkansas Department of Health has reported a significant increase in whooping cough cases, with over five times as many cases as last year, primarily affecting children and teenagers. More than thirty counties have reported cases in 2024, reflecting a nationwide rise in the disease, also known as pertussis. Initial symptoms mimic a common cold, but can progress to severe coughing fits lasting up to ten weeks. The disease spreads through close contact via coughing or sneezing.