Category: Public Health

Brain eating amoeba kills one in Texas

A Texas resident died after being exposed to Naegleria fowleri — the bacteria that causes a brain eating amoeba infection — from swimming in a lake in Travis County near Austin, Texas, according to an Aug. 30 news release.

3 ways BA.2.86 could play out

While the COVID-19 variant EG.5 accounts for more than 20 percent of cases across the U.S., according to CDC data, the emergence of a new subvariant, BA.2.86 is drawing close attention from health experts.

3 ways BA.2.86 could play out

While the COVID-19 variant EG.5 accounts for more than 20 percent of cases across the U.S., according to CDC data, the emergence of a new subvariant, BA.2.86 is drawing close attention from health experts.

CDC's new flu shot guidelines: 1 key change to know

The CDC updated its annual flu shot recommendations Aug. 23, with experts noting one key change: People with egg allergies can now get any flu vaccine, egg-based or non-egg based. 

How Far Will Montana’s Push to Remove Lead from School Drinking Water Go?

Montana has earmarked $3.7 million to address widespread high levels of lead in school drinking water. But it likely isn’t enough to solve the problem.

The tie between hurricanes and infectious diseases

Hurricane Idalia put Florida hospitals on high alert this week, preparing for potential flooding or power outages that could disrupt operations. Clinical leaders and health officials should also be vigilant for a separate threat in the coming weeks: in…

Will Where You Live Determine Access and Coverage of Emerging Anti-Obesity Drugs?

The U.S. Midwest and South regions have higher average obesity rates among adults. What does this mean for access and coverage of prescription drugs for weight loss?

COVID-19 admissions up in 37 states: 5 updates

COVID-19 admissions are increasing in 37 states — with more than half of states reporting a “substantial” jump — as new virus strains circulate nationwide, CDC data shows.

Exclusive: CMS Study Sabotages Efforts to Bolster Nursing Home Staffing, Advocates Say

Research commissioned by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services analyzed only staffing levels lower than the current federal standard. Patient advocates have been pushing for more staff to improve care.

Masks come back as admissions rise: 3 COVID-19 updates

At least eight hospitals in the U.S. have brought back mandatory mask rules as COVID-19 admissions tick up.