Tick bites are on the rise in the U.S., with risks varying by region due to different tick species and pathogens. Prompt removal and careful checks can reduce disease transmission, which includes Lyme disease and other pathogens. Awareness of regional risks and timely medical care are crucial, especially as tick-borne diseases are spreading to new areas due to climate change and reforestation.
Health officials have confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus in a mosquito sample from Chatham County, Savannah. The Georgia Department of Public Health advises residents to follow the "5 Ds" of mosquito bite prevention: avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn, wear long-sleeved clothing, use DEET-based insect repellent, drain standing water, and ensure doors and windows are properly sealed. While most cases are mild, severe reactions can occur, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions.
Nearly 81 million Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, caused by pollen from trees like oak, elm, birch, poplar, and maple in early spring, and later from grasses and other plants in summer. Dr. Meredith Porter recommends checking daily pollen counts, minimizing outdoor time on high pollen days, keeping windows closed and using AC in the car, wearing glasses or sunglasses, and washing face, hands, and clothes after outdoor exposure. Severe symptoms should prompt a visit to a primary care provider for testing.
Deschutes County in Oregon has reported a case of human plague linked to an infected pet cat, with symptoms typically appearing two to eight days after exposure to an infected animal or flea. The county health services have provided tips to prevent the spread of plague, including avoiding contact with rodents and their fleas, keeping pets on a leash with flea control products, and discouraging pet cats from hunting rodents. Residents are advised to keep wild rodents out of homes, refrain from feeding them in campgrounds, and take precautions such as wearing long pants and using insect repellent to reduce flea exposure.
San Bernardino County health officials have confirmed the first RSV-related death of a child under 5 years old, who was severely immunocompromised, in the county. RSV, a common respiratory virus, can be severe or fatal for infants and older adults. Health officials emphasize the importance of preventative measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing respiratory hygiene, sanitizing surfaces, getting vaccinated, and staying home if feeling sick. The CDC provides information on symptoms, contagious periods, and preventive tips, while urging heightened awareness and protective measures for vulnerable populations.
To prevent hangovers, experts suggest choosing drinks wisely, avoiding diet mixers, opting for 'clean' wines, taking vitamins, and staying hydrated with electrolytes. Foods like avocados, eggs, whole grains, watermelon, and bananas can alleviate hangover symptoms due to their nutrient content and hydration properties. Drinks like homemade electrolyte water, ginger tea, and coconut water can also help mitigate the effects of a hangover. The key is to consume alcohol responsibly and pair it with strategies that support the body's ability to cope with alcohol's aftereffects.
Health officials are urging people to take precautions to avoid getting sick during the holiday season, although there is no alarm raised this year. Respiratory viruses, particularly RSV, are currently prevalent, with Kentucky and Ohio reporting positive RSV tests. Dr. Robert Tracy advises staying away if feeling ill, wearing masks, and practicing good hand hygiene. Flu activity is moderate in Ohio, and getting flu shots and COVID-19 boosters is encouraged. Warren County has seen an increase in whooping cough and pediatric pneumonia cases, prompting the recommendation for children to be seen by their primary care physicians if they have symptoms.
Skeeter Syndrome, also known as mosquito bite allergy, is a rare allergic reaction to mosquito saliva proteins that can cause severe symptoms if not addressed. Common symptoms include intense itching, swelling, redness, pain, and blistering at the bite site. Those at risk include outdoor workers, immunocompromised individuals, and pregnant women. Treatment options include home remedies, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunotherapy. Prevention involves reducing mosquito bites and seeking medical help for severe symptoms or anaphylaxis.
Police in Asheville, North Carolina, have recovered four stolen vehicles that were part of a trend mentioned in the TikTok Kia challenge. The stolen cars were found in the Southside area after being taken from the Montford area. The trend involves videos on social media teaching juveniles how to steal vehicles by removing certain parts under the steering wheel and using a USB cord to start the engine. Late model Kias and Hyundais are popular targets, and young people often steal them for joyrides before abandoning them. Police advise car owners to never leave their vehicles unattended with the engine running, avoid leaving keys in the car or ignition, always lock the car and roll up windows, and never leave valuables in plain sight. If any suspicious activity is observed, individuals are encouraged to report it to the Asheville Police.
Life pressure has been found to increase the risk of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a disorder of the immune system that predominantly affects young people and is a leading cause of disability. Common symptoms of MS include vision loss, double vision, imbalance while walking, weakness in limbs, and urinary problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve life expectancy. Experts recommend maintaining nutrient balance, a balanced diet, and regular exercise to prevent relapses. Additionally, creating a supportive environment at home and work, ensuring safety features, and practicing good sleep hygiene can help reduce the impact of MS and prolong independent functioning.
Health officials in Harris and Fort Bend Counties are warning the public about an increase in Cyclospora infections, a non-life-threatening gastrointestinal illness caused by an intestinal parasite. The infections are believed to be linked to the consumption of contaminated food or water, particularly fresh produce. While most people recover without significant health effects, those who are immunocompromised, infants, or elderly may require hospitalization. The public is advised to wash hands thoroughly, wash fruits and vegetables, and sanitize cutting boards and utensils to prevent the spread of the disease.
Health officials in Houston, Harris County, and Fort Bend County have reported an increase in cyclospora infections, a non-life-threatening gastrointestinal illness caused by an intestinal parasite. The infection is typically contracted through contaminated food or water, with symptoms appearing between two to 14 days. While most individuals recover, infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk and may require hospitalization. Cyclospora does not spread from person to person, and cases are often linked to fresh produce. Health officials recommend thorough handwashing, washing of fruits and vegetables, and avoiding cross-contamination to prevent infection.
Covid variant XBB.1.16, also known as Arcturus, is a subvariant of the Omicron variant and is considered more transmissible and immune-evasive than its predecessors. While the symptoms of XBB.1.16 are not very different from the previous strains and the disease caused by it largely remains mild, in case of vulnerable population like children and elderly, it can cause slightly different symptoms. Common symptoms in adults include fever, sore throat, running nose, cough, body ache, myalgia, fatigue, diarrhoea. Prevention tips include wearing triple-layered masks, taking care of hand hygiene, and following social distancing measures. Vaccination may prevent hospitalisation and severe disease in those with risk factors of severe disease.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has launched the 'Fight the Bite' campaign to reduce the risk of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases. The state reported nearly 700 cases of such illnesses last year, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and La Crosse Encephalitis. The DHHS recommends using EPA-approved repellents, checking for ticks after being in tick habitats, and eliminating standing water to reduce the chance of mosquitoes breeding.
