PUBLIC HEALTH

Aug 29 2025HEALTH

U. S. Vaccine Policy Shifts: What You Need to Know

The U. S. recently updated its coronavirus vaccine guidelines. Now, only those at high risk or over 65 can get the shots. This change brings the U. S. more in line with other countries. But it's not all smooth sailing. The new rules have caused some confusion. People are unsure who exactly can get

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Aug 28 2025HEALTH

Oyster Alert: Deadly Bacteria on the Rise in Louisiana

In Louisiana, a dangerous bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus is causing serious trouble. This year alone, six people have died, and 34 others have gotten sick from it. The bacteria loves warm, brackish water and can make people very ill if they eat contaminated shellfish or swim with open wounds. Th

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Aug 27 2025HEALTH

Summer COVID Surge: What's Happening and How to Stay Safe

COVID-19 might not be as scary as it once was, but it's still around and causing trouble, especially during the summer. This year, a new subvariant named XFG, also called "Stratus, " is making its way through California, causing a rise in cases. Experts say this isn't surprising because COVID tends

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Aug 23 2025HEALTH

West Nile Virus: What's Happening in NYC?

New York City has seen its first human cases of West Nile virus in 2025. Two people from Queens have been affected, and the virus has also been found in blood donations from Brooklyn and Staten Island. However, these donors did not meet the criteria for a confirmed case. The virus is spread by mosq

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Aug 20 2025HEALTH

Plague in California: What You Need to Know

Plague, a disease that might sound like something from history books, has made a recent appearance in California. A person in South Lake Tahoe has tested positive for this bacterial infection, likely after a flea bite during a camping trip. This isn't an isolated case either; just last month, someon

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Aug 20 2025HEALTH

Kids and COVID Shots: What's the Best Move?

There's a big debate going on about whether young kids should get COVID shots. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says yes, especially for kids between 6 months and 2 years old. They think these kids are more likely to get really sick from COVID. But not everyone agrees. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

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Aug 12 2025HEALTH

CDC Workers Face Uncertain Future After Recent Shootings and Budget Cuts

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is going through a tough time. Workers are feeling the pressure from recent events, including a shooting and big budget cuts. Many employees who lost their jobs are back, but things are still uncertain. Projects are on hold, and people are worried

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Aug 09 2025HEALTH

Vaping Memes: How Social Media Shapes Teen Habits

Memes are a big deal on social media. They're those funny or relatable images with text that everyone shares. But did you know they can also change how teens see vaping? A recent study dug into this and found some interesting stuff. The study used data from a large survey called PATH. This survey t

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Aug 06 2025HEALTH

Legionnaires' Disease: A Hidden Threat in NYC's Skyline

In the heart of New York City, a silent menace has taken hold. Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia, has recently struck Central Harlem. This outbreak has left 67 people ill and tragically claimed three lives. The culprit? Cooling towers, those towering structures perched on buildings,

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Aug 05 2025HEALTH

Florida's Raw Milk Scare: What You Need to Know

In Florida, 21 people fell ill after consuming raw milk from a single farm. Among those affected, six were children under 10, and seven required hospitalization. Two individuals faced severe complications. The Florida Department of Health expressed concern over the farm's sanitation practices, linki

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