The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed the state’s second case of measles reported so far this year, prompting an investigation into potential exposure sites and renewed public health guidance for residents. Health officials said the case involves a preschool-aged child who recently traveled internationally with family members, a factor that continues to play a significant role in measles transmission within the United States. According to the department, the child visite

Norovirus infections are increasing earlier than expected this season across the United States, with particularly elevated activity being detected in parts of the Bay Area, according to recent wastewater monitoring data. Public health experts say the early rise is being driven in part by a new variant of the virus, leaving many people without prior exposure or immunity. Data collected from wastewater surveillance systems show especially high levels of norovirus in the South Bay, Red

Health officials across North America are raising concerns over a growing surge in measles cases, urging travelers to remain cautious and ensure they are vaccinated. The warning follows multiple confirmed exposures at major U.S. airports, increasing fears of renewed transmission of the highly contagious disease that had been largely controlled for decades through widespread immunization. The latest alert comes after an individual infected with measles was present at Philadelphia Int

Dallas County, Texas — Health officials have confirmed the first death related to the West Nile Virus (WNV) in the 2025 season, marking a sobering reminder of ongoing mosquito risks across North Texas. The Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) announced that the victim was a man in his seventies who suffered from underlying medical conditions and had been diagnosed with the neuroinvasive form of the disease, known as West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease (WNND). This severe form aff

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

What is food phobia?   Food phobia is an intense fear or strong refusal of certain foods. It can look like crying, gagging, panic at mealtimes, or insisting on only a few safe foods. It’s common in young children and often improves with calm, consistent help.  Common causes   Some kids develop fears after a scary experience such as choking, gagging, or vomiting. Sensory sensitivity to texture, smell, or

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

Mealtime with kids can often feel like a test of patience for parents. Between picky eaters, short attention spans, and the chaos of daily life, turning meals into a peaceful family moment isn’t always easy. However, with a few thoughtful strategies, parents can reduce stress, encourage better eating habits, and create a more positive mealtime experience. Set a Consistent Routine Child

Every parent knows the challenge of dealing with a picky eater at home. Children often go through phases where they refuse to try new foods or stick to eating the same meals repeatedly. While this can be frustrating, it is a normal part of childhood development. The key is patience, creativity, and consistency in mealtime habits to ensure kids get the nutrition they need without turning every meal into a battle. One of the best strategies is to make mealtime fun and stress-free. Pre

More than 7.2 million Americans are now living with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2025 Facts and Figures report released Tuesday. Of those, over 459,000 live in Texas, placing the state among the hardest hit by this debilitating illness. The new data underscores not only the growing burden of Alzheimer’s, but also the unrecognized labor and emotional toll carried by over 1 million unpaid caregivers in Texas alone. The disease, which ca

A new artificial intelligence-powered app developed in the Bay Area is offering a glimmer of hope for people at risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as ALS. The app, called EverythingALS, is the brainchild of Indu Navar, a former tech executive who channeled personal loss into innovation after losing her husband, Peter, to the disease. With ALS notoriously difficult to detect early, this tool could change the trajectory for thousands of patients and their families by offeri

A groundbreaking study has revealed that exposure to phthalates chemicals commonly used to make plastics flexible may have played a major role in over 356,000 cardiovascular-related deaths globally in 2018. The research, conducted by a team at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, places a spotlight on a widespread environmental health hazard linked to one of the world’s leading causes of death. According to the study, nearly 13.5% of cardiovascular deaths in ind

Residents of Illinois are being urged to stay vigilant after a dead rabbit found in Tuscola tested positive for tularemia, a bacterial disease that poses a risk to both humans and animals. The Douglas County Health Department confirmed that the rabbit was discovered and tested following reports of unusual animal deaths in the area. Tuscola, located about 25 miles south of Champaign, became the focus of public health attention after the positive result. Adding to the concern, officials also re

Mushrooms have long held a reputation as a nutritious powerhouse in global diets. With their low calorie count and high nutrient density, they're packed with antioxidants, essential minerals, and anti-inflammatory compounds. But is it safe to eat mushrooms every single day? The answer is a cautious yes—if consumed in moderation and chosen wisely. According to health authorities such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), edible

While the necessity of adequate sleep is well understood and widely promoted, the lesser-discussed issue of oversleeping is increasingly drawing attention from health professionals and researchers. Defined as routinely sleeping more than nine hours a night, oversleeping may seem like a harmless indulgence or even a positive health choice. However, growing scientific evidence suggests that excessive sleep can carry significant health risks and may even signal deeper medical problems.

Every year, World Liver Day is observed on April 19 to raise awareness about liver health and the growing prevalence of liver-related diseases. It also encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyle choices that support liver function and prevent long-term complications. As liver disease continues to be a silent global health crisis, this day plays a vital role in promoting preventative health through knowledge, early diagnosis, and lifestyle changes. The liver is one of the most crucial

As summer rolls in, watermelon becomes a go-to fruit for staying hydrated and cool. While the juicy red flesh is widely enjoyed, the small black seeds within are often discarded without a second thought. However, watermelon seeds are far from useless—they are actually nutritional powerhouses that offer a wide range of health benefits. Packed with essential minerals, fiber, and healthy fats, these seeds deserve a spot in your summer diet. If you’re looking for natural, lo

E-cigarettes, popularly known as vapes, have been widely marketed as a safer substitute for traditional tobacco cigarettes. With sleek designs, enticing flavors, and claims of reduced harm, they have quickly gained popularity—particularly among teenagers and young adults. However, despite the modern appeal and misleading marketing, medical experts and health organizations globally are raising serious red flags about the potential dangers of vaping. Recent research from the World Health

International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for women's rights, gender equality, and overall well-being. While the day is widely recognized for highlighting social, economic, and political issues, it also plays a crucial role in bringing attention to women's health challenges worldwide. Among the most pressing concerns is the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and nutritional deficiencies, particularly anaemia, which affects millions o