All articles tagged with #public health warning
Massachusetts health officials warn about a rare and potentially deadly Vibrio bacteria infection in coastal waters, linked to a recent case at Buzzards Bay, emphasizing the risks for those with open wounds or consuming contaminated shellfish during warm months.
The World Health Organization has issued a warning about falsified weight-loss drugs, particularly counterfeit semaglutide medications like Ozempic, which have been found in Brazil, the U.K., and the U.S. These fake drugs pose significant health risks, including unmanaged blood glucose levels and unpredictable complications. The WHO advises the public to only purchase these medications with prescriptions from licensed physicians and avoid unverified sources, especially online.
Columbus Public Health has issued a warning about a syphilis outbreak in the city, urging individuals at risk to get tested. Syphilis is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact and can cause long-term damage if left untreated. The organization offers sexual health clinics and testing for those who may have been exposed to the disease.
Mosquitoes in five Rhode Island towns, including Westerly, have tested positive for West Nile Virus, while two samples from Glocester tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The Department of Environmental Management and Rhode Island Department of Health have issued a heightened public health warning, stating that the risk level for both diseases is now considered high. Rhode Islanders are urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites until the first hard frost of autumn. EEE has a higher mortality rate than WNV, and cases of WNV occur during mosquito season, with no vaccines or medications available for treatment.
A 48-year-old man in the UK contracted a previously unknown species of bacterium after being bitten by a stray cat. The man's hands swelled severely, leading to hospitalization and surgical removal of damaged tissue. Analysis of the bacterium's genome revealed it to be a new strain belonging to the Globicatella genus. While this strain responded well to antibiotics, the case study highlights the potential for cats to harbor undiscovered bacterial species with human pathogenic potential. Cat bites and scratches can cause serious infections, necessitating immediate medical attention and proper wound care.