The FDA has approved Moderna's new lower-dose COVID-19 vaccine, mNexspike, for use in adults 65+ and at-risk individuals aged 12-64, providing an additional tool for COVID-19 protection, especially for high-risk groups, based on a study showing it is safe and effective.
A salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cantaloupes has sickened hundreds of people in the U.S. and Canada, resulting in at least 10 deaths. Health officials are advising consumers, retailers, and restaurants to avoid purchasing or consuming cantaloupes if the source is unknown, particularly for high-risk individuals such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The outbreak began in mid-October, and the cantaloupes in question were imported from Mexico. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of contamination, but factors such as poor hygiene practices, pests, and equipment sanitation issues may contribute. Consumers are advised to rinse and scrub whole melons thoroughly or consider alternative methods to reduce bacterial contamination.
A salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated cantaloupes has sickened hundreds of people in the U.S. and Canada, resulting in at least 10 deaths. Health officials are urging consumers, retailers, and restaurants to avoid purchasing or serving cantaloupes if the source is unknown, particularly for high-risk groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. The outbreak has affected over 300 people in the U.S. and 150 in Canada, with recalls of whole and cut fruit being issued. The implicated cantaloupes were imported from Mexico, and contamination can occur due to poor hygiene practices, pests, and equipment sanitation. Food safety experts recommend thorough cleaning and drying of cantaloupes, and high-risk individuals may consider avoiding cantaloupes, especially during an outbreak.
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, presents a significant public health challenge in India. The country carries a substantial burden of the flu, with outbreaks occurring throughout the year. The flu can lead to severe complications and even death, particularly in high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions. The flu vaccine is the most effective tool for safeguarding against the flu, reducing the risk of contracting the virus, severe complications, hospitalization, and mortality. Flu vaccines are readily available in India and getting vaccinated is crucial for protecting public health and reducing the burden of this contagious and potentially life-threatening virus.
The World Health Organization has updated its COVID-19 vaccination recommendations, stating that healthy children and adolescents may not necessarily need a shot, but older, high-risk groups should get a booster between 6 to 12 months after their last vaccine. The WHO defines high-risk populations as older adults and younger people with other significant risk factors. The recommendations come as countries take differing approaches, with some high-income countries already offering high-risk COVID-19 boosters this spring, six months after their last dose.
The World Health Organization has updated its COVID-19 vaccination recommendations, stating that healthy children and adolescents may not necessarily need a shot, but older, high-risk groups should get a booster between 6 to 12 months after their last vaccine. The WHO defines high-risk populations as older adults and younger people with other significant risk factors. The recommendations come as countries take differing approaches, with some high-income countries already offering COVID-19 boosters this spring, six months after their last dose. The committee also called for urgent efforts to catch up on routine vaccinations missed during the pandemic and warned of a rise in vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.
Doctors in Hyderabad have recommended flu vaccines, especially for high-risk groups, due to the rising cases of H3N2 in the state. While people previously exposed to Swine flu may have a basic level of herd immunity, taking the Quadriflu vaccine is still necessary for protection against newer variants. Infants, elderly, and people with underlying health conditions are at high risk and must take the vaccine shot. Pregnant women should also be vaccinated against influenza.