Norovirus cases surging in parts of U.S.

Category: Health

Norovirus cases are increasing in the U.S., with 91 outbreaks reported in early December, up from 69 in late November. This highly contagious infection leads to vomiting and diarrhea, with no specific treatment available. The CDC estimates 19 to 21 million cases annually, resulting in approximately 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations. Prevention focuses on handwashing and food safety, as masking is ineffective against this virus.

Keywords: Norovirus, Outbreaks, Foodborne illness

Source: Yahoo News

Update At: 12/30/2024

Related Sources

Here's what to do with deli meats as the CDC investigates a listeria outbreak across the U.S.

U.S. health officials are advising pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems to avoid sliced deli meats due to a listeria outbreak linked to two deaths and 28 hospitalizations. The CDC has not identified specific contaminated products, but recommends that at-risk individuals either avoid deli meats or ensure they are recooked to steaming hot before consumption. Symptoms of listeria infections can be severe, especially for vulnerable populations.

ABC News

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear endorses federal effort to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear endorsed the Biden administration's proposal to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, highlighting its medical uses as an alternative to opioids. This change aims to destigmatize medical marijuana and provide a safer option for patients, especially as Kentucky's medical cannabis program is set to begin in January 2024. Beshear emphasized the need for legal medical cannabis to combat opioid abuse, which has claimed thousands of lives in the state.

AP News

Beshear calls for reclassification of marijuana at federal level

Governor Andy Beshear is advocating for the reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III narcotic at the federal level, following a recommendation from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This change aims to provide patients with alternatives to opioids and improve access to safe products, thereby reducing crime. Kentucky's medical marijuana program is set to launch on January 1.

WBKO

JK Rowling claims 'best cure' for gender dysphoria is simply to let children go through puberty

JK Rowling claims to know the best cure for gender dysphoria, advocating for allowing nature to take its course. This comes amid controversy over the Labour government's ban on private puberty blocker prescriptions for trans youth. Despite her views, studies indicate that gender-affirming care significantly improves mental health outcomes for transgender teens.

PinkNews

JK Rowling Claims Puberty is the Best Cure for Gender Dysphoria

JK Rowling has sparked controversy by advocating for allowing children with gender dysphoria to go through puberty naturally, arguing that most will outgrow it. This stance contrasts with research supporting gender-affirming care, which shows improved mental health outcomes for transgender youth. The debate highlights polarized views on the best approach to support transgender children.

ASEAN NOW

How well does Medicare cover end-of-life care? It depends on what type

Research indicates that the type of Medicare plan affects end-of-life care, with Traditional Medicare offering more flexibility and Medicare Advantage potentially reducing burdensome treatments but increasing hospital deaths. The study highlights the importance of family discussions regarding end-of-life care preferences.

Medical Xpress

Deli Meats Linked to Deadly Listeria Outbreak

Public health officials warn against eating deli counter sliced meats due to a listeria outbreak linked to at least two deaths and 28 hospitalizations across multiple states. The CDC advises vulnerable groups to avoid such meats unless reheated to 165°F. Cleaning surfaces and reporting symptoms to health officials is recommended.

AARP

Multistate Listeria outbreak tied to meats sliced at delis sickens 28, kills 2

A 12-state outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes has resulted in 28 hospitalizations and 2 deaths, primarily linked to deli-sliced meats. The CDC warns that the true number of cases may be higher and advises high-risk individuals to avoid such meats or ensure they are properly heated. Symptoms can appear within 2 weeks of exposure, and those affected should seek medical attention.

CIDRAP

Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meat, CDC Says

No products have been recalled in the current listeria outbreak affecting multiple states, with New York and Maryland reporting the highest cases. Listeria poses serious health risks, especially to pregnant individuals, infants, and the elderly. Experts recommend avoiding deli meats or heating them to 165°F to kill the bacteria.

ConsumerReports.org

Deadly listeria outbreak linked to deli meat: Here's what to know

A listeria outbreak linked to deli meat has resulted in two deaths and at least 28 hospitalizations across 12 states. Health officials advise vulnerable populations, including pregnant individuals and the elderly, to avoid deli meats unless they are recooked. The CDC has not issued a recall as the specific contaminated products are unknown, and the outbreak may spread beyond reported states.

FOX 10 News Phoenix