Health officials in Montgomery County, Pa., have issued a warning to the public about possible measles exposure that may have taken place Jan. 3 at two separate health facilities — an urgent care center and an emergency department.
Category: Public Health
KFF Health News’ ‘What the Health?’: All About the (Government) Funding
With days to go until a large chunk of the federal government runs out of money needed to keep it operating, Congress is still struggling to find a compromise spending plan. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court agreed to hear — this year — a case that pits federal requirements for emergency treatment against state abortion bans. Alice Miranda Ollstein of Politico, Sarah Karlin-Smith of the Pink Sheet, and Tami Luhby of CNN join KFF Health News chief Washington correspondent Julie Rovner to discuss these issues and more. Also this week, Rovner interviews American Medical Association President Jesse Ehrenfeld about the choppy waters facing the nation’s physicians in 2024.
JN.1 now accounts for 62% of COVID cases: 2 updates on the strain
The JN.1 COVID-19 variant is now the most prevalent strain both globally and in the U.S., where it accounts for an estimated 62% of cases.
Some teens turn to 'budget Ozempic'
Nearly 1 in 10 adolescents have used nonprescription weight loss products in their lifetimes that are ineffective and potentially harmful, according to a study published Jan. 10 in Jama Network Open.
Mass Gen, YouTube create first aid videos
YouTube is taking a dive into the healthcare industry by partnering with Mass General Brigham to produce step-by-step, explainer videos on first aid topics.
Number of states reporting 'very high' virus levels rises alongside admissions
Twenty-one states reported “very high” levels of respiratory virus activity — a measure of outpatient and emergency department visits — for the week ending Dec. 30, up from 13 that reported the same a week earlier.
Immunity's role in COVID-19 test result lags
COVID-19 tests used to be able to detect a positive case within the first 48 hours, but many results are now delayed until four days after symptoms appear, according to the LA Times.
California Offers a Lifeline for Medical Residents Who Can’t Find Abortion Training
Abortion restrictions in 18 states have curtailed access to training in skills that doctors say are critical for OB-GYN specialists and others. A new California law makes it easier for out-of-state doctors to get experience in reproductive medicine.
COVID admissions jump 20% as JN.1 spreads: 5 virus updates
Hospitalizations for respiratory viruses are on the rise nationwide following a holiday season marked by extensive travel and indoor gatherings.
The cost of respiratory virus season in 7 numbers
Upticks in respiratory virus activity, especially hospitalizations, are taxing to the nation’s healthcare system in terms of both costs and resources.
