Tag

Infection Prevention

All articles tagged with #infection prevention

health1 day ago

Winter vomiting bug surge prompts NHS alert as cases rise

Norovirus cases are rising in the UK, putting extra pressure on the NHS with four trusts declaring critical incidents. The highly infectious winter vomiting bug spreads through close contact, contaminated surfaces, food, and water, prompting Health Security Agency guidance that handwashing with soap and warm water is essential (not alcohol gel). Those affected should stay home for 48 hours after symptoms end, avoid handling food, and refrain from visiting vulnerable people in hospitals or care homes.

health5 months ago

Rising Flesh-Eating Bacteria Risks in Gulf Coast Waters

Flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus bacteria have caused several deaths in Florida and Louisiana this summer. The bacteria thrive in warm coastal waters and can infect through open wounds or by eating contaminated raw shellfish. To reduce risk, avoid raw shellfish, cover wounds, and steer clear of warm coastal waters if you have open cuts or underlying health conditions. Prompt medical attention is crucial if infection signs appear.

health6 months ago

Flesh-Eating Bacteria Causes Multiple Deaths in Florida Coastal Waters in 2025

A case of flesh-eating bacteria, Vibrio vulnificus, has resulted in one death in Broward County, South Florida, with a total of 11 cases reported across the state in 2025. The bacterium, found in warm seawater and shellfish, can cause severe illness, especially through raw shellfish consumption or open wounds exposed to saltwater. Preventative measures include thoroughly cooking shellfish and avoiding contact with contaminated water or raw seafood.

health6 months ago

Oncologists Urged to Address Antimicrobial Resistance as a Critical Cancer Care Crisis

Oncologists are urged to recognize antimicrobial resistance as a critical crisis impacting cancer treatment, with studies showing cancer patients are at higher risk of resistant infections, which threaten to undermine advances in cancer therapies. The article emphasizes the need for integrated efforts across disciplines to improve infection control, develop new antibiotics, and update treatment guidelines to address this emerging threat.

health6 months ago

West Nile Virus Detected in Cincinnati and Cumberland County Mosquitoes in 2025

The Cincinnati Health Department confirmed the first West Nile virus detection in the city in 2025, with a mosquito in Madisonville testing positive. Authorities advise residents to prevent infection by eliminating standing water and using repellents, especially during dawn and dusk. Last year, Cincinnati reported 24 positive mosquito pools but no human cases, with the last human infection in 2015.

health7 months ago

Scientists Explore Vitamins' Role in Fighting Infections

Vitamins are essential for immune function and can help fight infections, especially in cases of deficiency, but their effectiveness as a preventive measure for infections in healthy individuals is uncertain and mixed. Overuse of supplements can be harmful, and they should complement, not replace, other proven health measures like vaccines and good hygiene.

health7 months ago

Hand Sanitizer's Effectiveness Against Germs: What You Should Know

Hand sanitizer is convenient but not always effective against all germs, especially non-enveloped viruses, spores, and parasites. Proper hand washing with soap and water is preferred when possible, and hand sanitizer should contain at least 60% alcohol, be used thoroughly, and not replace good hygiene practices like avoiding touching the face and disinfecting surfaces. Hand sanitizer is a useful backup when soap and water aren't available, but it doesn't eliminate all pathogens.

parenting1 year ago

"Rationale Behind Banning Kissing and Cuddling Babies"

Research shows that kissing and cuddling newborns, especially those born premature or with health problems, can pose serious health risks due to their vulnerable immune systems. Despite the risk, many parents feel uneasy asking visitors not to touch or kiss their baby, fearing offense or being labeled overprotective. Setting boundaries with friends and family can be difficult, but experts advise calmly and firmly explaining concerns about infections and trusting parental instincts to keep the baby safe and healthy. Simple hygiene measures, such as hand-washing and avoiding contact when unwell, can help lower the risk of passing on infections to young babies.

health-education1 year ago

Study Finds School Closures Ineffective in Preventing COVID-19 Spread

A two-year review by researchers at McMaster University suggests that school closures may not have been necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19, as schools and daycares were not significant sources of virus transmission when infection prevention and control measures were in place. The review, published in The Lancet Child and Adolescent Health, found that strategies such as masking, vaccinations, and test-to-stay policies were effective in reducing COVID-19 spread in educational settings, while measures like mandatory quarantining and hybrid learning showed uncertain effectiveness. The review also highlighted the negative impacts of school closures on educational disparities, social and emotional development, and mental health, and emphasized the importance of keeping schools open with appropriate measures in place.