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

A children’s costume sold through Amazon has been recalled after federal safety officials determined it contains prohibited toxic chemicals, prompting an urgent warning to parents and caregivers. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall on Dec. 11, advising consumers to immediately remove the costume from children’s access and destroy it to prevent potential harm. The recall involves SKCAIHT-branded costumes designed to resemble mermaid or princess outfit

Scientists have achieved a historic medical breakthrough by successfully curing a form of blood cancer that was long considered incurable. Researchers from University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital have used a revolutionary technology known as DNA base editing to treat T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a rare and aggressive cancer that primarily affects children and young adults. This marks the first time base-edited cells have been used in humans to achieve long-term can

Thousands of cases of popular salad dressings distributed across the United States have been recalled after federal regulators identified the presence of foreign material in certain products, according to a recent enforcement report issued by the Food and Drug Administration. The recall involves products manufactured by California-based Ventura Foods and includes several well-known brands and private-label dressings sold through retail and food service channels. The recall was first

Illinois has joined a growing number of states allowing medical aid in dying after Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation authorizing physician-assisted death for certain terminally ill patients. The governor’s office announced Friday that the measure, formally known as the Medical Aid in Dying Act, will take effect on Sept. 12, 2026, giving state health officials time to establish oversight procedures and implementation protocols. The law permits eligible adults diagnosed with termi

Guava is widely considered one of the most nutrient-rich fruits because it delivers a powerful combination of vitamin C, fibre, antioxidants, minerals, and plant compounds that support multiple aspects of health. Its benefits range from boosting immunity and improving digestion to helping regulate blood sugar and supporting heart function. Since guava is low in calories but high in essential nutrients, it fits easily into any daily diet, making it a simple and effective addition for better we

Kidney disease often develops silently, which makes the earliest symptoms easy to miss. Because kidneys filter waste, balance body fluids, control blood pressure, and support red blood cell production, even slight damage can affect the body in several subtle ways. Recognising these early clues helps diagnose kidney problems before they become severe or irreversible. Many people dismiss these signs as stress, dehydration, lifestyle issues, or temporary sickness, when in reality, they indicate

Nail biting, or onychophagia, is a habit many dismiss as harmless, especially when seen in children or teens. While occasional nail biting may seem mild, experts warn that chronic and compulsive nail biting can severely impact physical health, oral hygiene and emotional well-being. Over time, the behaviour becomes automatic, arising during stress, boredom or even without awareness. Studies show that if left unmanaged, the habit can damage nails, introduce infections, cause dental complication

The Reserve Bank of India has reduced the repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down from 5.5% to 5.25%. This marks a total reduction of 125 basis points in 2025, sparking fresh hope among homebuyers for affordable loan EMIs as banks prepare to revise lending rates. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), which met on December 3, 4 and 5, voted unanimously after assessing inflation control, liquidity status and growth expectations. Governor Sanjay Malhotra confirmed the move, addin

Cosmetic fillers have become extremely popular worldwide for enhancing facial features, smoothing wrinkles and plumping lips. But a new medical study has raised concerns that these procedures are not as harmless as they appear. Research presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) reveals that filler injections can sometimes enter blood vessels, block circulation, and lead to severe complications such as blindness, necrosis, tissue death or even stroke. Health experts now war

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has released an updated notice regarding a nationwide recall of shredded cheese products distributed to several major retail chains, including Aldi, Target, and Walmart. According to the agency, more than 260,000 cases of shredded cheese may contain metal fragments, prompting officials to elevate their advisory and urge consumers to take immediate precautions. The update follows recent concerns in the dairy sector, including a separate recall involving Pr

A team of Indian researchers has identified a crucial genetic mechanism that allows pregnancy to begin, marking a major advance in reproductive biology. The study, published in Cell Death Discovery, reveals how two genes work in opposition to regulate the moment an embryo successfully implants into the uterine lining. Scientists from NIRRCH in Mumbai, IISc in Bengaluru and BHU in Varanasi collaborated to investigate why the uterus becomes receptive only for a brief window, and what determines

India is preparing for one of its busiest wedding seasons, with nearly 46 lakh weddings expected in 2025 and spending projected at around Rs 6.5 lakh crore. As celebrations grow grander, Indian weddings often resemble Bollywood productions with choreographed sangeets, elaborate décor and multi-day festivities. But with budgets crossing Rs 30–35 lakh for most weddings, and luxury ceremonies easily exceeding Rs 1 crore, families are pouring unprecedented amounts into these events. With such

Health officials across the United States are closely monitoring a rapidly spreading H3N2 influenza strain that has already led to unusually large outbreaks in several countries. The early and aggressive activity observed abroad is raising concern that the U.S. may be headed toward a more challenging flu season than in recent years. Countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan have recorded stronger-than-normal waves of influenza infection, with some regions reporting significant

Tea is deeply ingrained in daily routines, but certain habits can silently damage your gut and liver. Drinking tea on an empty stomach, for example, causes irritation because tannins increase acidity and may trigger reflux, nausea, or discomfort. Many people also consume sweetened teas—like iced teas, milk teas, or café-style blends—which can contain up to 30–40 grams of sugar. These sugar-heavy drinks contribute to fatty liver, weight gain, and diabetes. Detox teas marketed as weight-

Rising Diabetes Burden in India India has seen a rapid increase in diabetes cases over the last two decades. According to ICMR–INDIAB Study, diabetic adults rose from 32 million in 2000 to nearly 90 million in 2024. Approximately 1 in 9 Indian adults now live with diabetes, with numbers projected to exceed 100 million soon. Many cases remain undiagnosed, increasing the risk of complications. Lifest

Importance of Calcium: Calcium is crucial for bones, teeth, muscles, nerves, and overall body functions. Adults aged 19–64 require around 700 mg of calcium daily, ideally obtained from dietary sources like milk, cheese, broccoli, cabbage, okra, and nuts. Dietary Calcium vs Supplements: Dietary calcium is absorbed slowly, providing a steady and natural balance in the body. Calcium supplemen