Kerala is battling a serious health challenge after 19 people lost their lives to Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare but deadly infection caused by the brain-eating amoeba Naegleria fowleri. The state has confirmed 69 cases in 2025, almost double last year’s count, making it one of the worst outbreaks in recent years. Cases have been reported across multiple districts, affecting patients as young as three months and as old as 91 y

Many people looking to improve their health and manage weight are switching from refined white sugar to alternatives like jaggery powder and brown sugar. While both appear similar and are used as sweeteners, they differ in production, nutrition, and overall health benefits. Here’s a breakdown: What is Jaggery Powder? Made from sugarcane juice or pa

Kerala is grappling with a serious public health concern after confirming 67 cases of brain-eating amoeba infection, scientifically known as amoebic meningoencephalitis, in 2025. The rare but often fatal disease has already claimed 18 lives this year, according to updated data released under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme on September 14. The latest case involves a 17-year-old boy from Thiruvananthapuram, who was diagnosed after visiting the swi

Santa Clara County is taking an innovative step to reduce food waste and at the same time support residents struggling with food insecurity. The county has rolled out a food recovery program that directly places commercial refrigerators stocked with fresh produce and ready-to-eat meals inside affordable housing developments. Residents can now access nutritious food right where they live without needing to travel long distances or rely on irregular food distribution events. The initi

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed Executive Order 2025-04, launching a statewide initiative to secure vaccine access across Illinois as the fall respiratory virus season approaches. The governor emphasized that the move was necessary following widespread confusion over shifting federal COVID vaccine guidance and controversial decisions by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Pritzker explained in his announcement that no Illinois family should have to question w

One of the most common worries new parents share is, “Why isn’t my baby sleeping?” Whether it’s trouble falling asleep, frequent night wakings, or short naps, sleep struggles are a universal parenting challenge. Babies’ sleep patterns can vary widely, and understanding the reasons behind sleepless nights can make the journey a little easier. In the first few months, newborns wake often because their tiny stomachs need frequent feeding. As babies grow, s

If you are an NRI parent moving to the United States or already living there, a common question is whether your child’s Indian vaccination certificate will be accepted. The good news is that in most cases the answer is yes, but there are a few important points to keep in mind. Indian vaccination records are generally recognized in the US as long as they are complete, accurate, and clearly documented. The records should include the child’s name, date of birth, vaccine nam

The Trump administration has come under intense criticism after the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) confirmed that nearly ten million dollars’ worth of contraceptives earmarked for people in low-income nations were deliberately destroyed earlier this year. The products, which included birth control pills, intrauterine devices, and hormonal implants valued at $9.7 million, were stored in a warehouse in Belgium before being incinerated at a medical waste facilit

After one of the most severe flu seasons in recent years, health experts are urging Californians to prepare for another difficult outbreak by getting vaccinated against both influenza and COVID-19. Medical specialists caution that early immunization is especially important for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions. Jeffrey Silvers, an infectious disease specialist based in Sacramento, explained in a recent w

Chicago health officials have issued a public health alert following reports of multiple leptospirosis cases in the city, including one that resulted in death. The Chicago Department of Public Health confirmed that at least four recent infections have been identified, with all patients either directly or indirectly exposed to animal urine or droppings, most commonly from rats. The department stressed that residents should remain vigilant, particularly those involved in outdoor activities such

Santa Clara County has opened a new facility aimed at addressing the growing challenges of substance use disorders at a time when federal health care cuts threaten to strain local resources. The Compassionate Addiction Services and Support (COMPASS) Clinic officially launched on September 2 and is already being recognized as a major step forward in providing immediate, accessible care to those struggling with addiction. The clinic is funded through a combination of federal grants and opioid s

Parenting is challenging on its own, but when a health emergency strikes—whether it involves a parent, child, or another family member—the stress can feel overwhelming. Balancing the responsibilities of caring for children while managing medical needs requires strength, planning, and emotional resilience. With the right approach, parents can provide stability for their children while navigating uncertain times. The first step is to stay calm and organized. Children quick

Losing a job can be a stressful experience for any family, but it often affects children in ways parents may not immediately realize. Children are sensitive to changes at home and can sense the emotions of their parents. Whether it’s worry about money, changes in daily routines, or uncertainty about the future, parental job loss can create anxiety for kids. Supporting them during this period requires honesty, reassurance, and stability. The first step is open communication. Pa

When families move from India to another country, one of the challenges parents face is keeping their child’s vaccination schedule on track. Different countries follow different immunization guidelines, and this can sometimes lead to vaccine gaps. For NRI parents, understanding how to bridge these gaps is important for ensuring their child’s health and meeting the requirements of schools, daycares, and local healthcare systems. In India, the vaccination schedule is more

For many NRI families, international travel is a regular part of life. Whether it’s visiting relatives in India, exploring new destinations, or moving between countries for work, travel brings both opportunities and responsibilities. One area that often raises questions is vaccination, especially when it comes to vaccines that are not part of the standard childhood immunization schedule. Yellow fever and a few other rare vaccines fall into this category, and understanding when they are

When it comes to raising children abroad, NRI parents often face unique challenges regarding vaccinations. One of the most common questions is whether the BCG vaccine, which protects against tuberculosis (TB), is necessary for children born outside India. Understanding the importance of this vaccine and its relevance in different countries can help parents make informed decisions. The BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin) vaccine is routinely given to newborns in India and many other

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has become a crucial tool in preventing HPV-related cancers, including cervical cancer, throat cancer, and other cancers caused by the virus. For Indian teens living abroad, understanding the HPV vaccine guidelines in their respective countries is important to ensure they are fully protected. Although the HPV vaccine is not a routine part of India’s vaccination schedule, it is strongly recommended for teens worldwide, particularly for those who are

Benefits of Morning Walks Boosts Metabolism Early – Walking in the morning activates your body’s metabolism and sets the tone for calorie burning throughout the day. This early start helps regulate energy levels and keeps you active longer.

  Immunization is one of the most important public health strategies to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Both India and the United States have their own immunization schedules to ensure children receive the necessary vaccines to protect them from various diseases. However, the vaccination schedules differ in terms of the types of vaccines, the timing of doses, and the age at which they are administered. Understanding these differences is essential for parents, caregiv

A new twist on Chicago’s beloved deep dish pizza has arrived, and it comes with an unexpected ingredient: mustard. Giordano’s, the iconic name in Chicago style pizza, has partnered with Jim’s Original, the legendary Maxwell Street Polish sausage brand, to create a collaboration that brings together two of the city’s most recognizable food traditions. The result is the Jim’s Original Deep Dish Pizza, part of Giordano’s Chi Town Flavors series. The