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Washington Post
a day ago
- General
- Washington Post
Safe travel, cold plunges and hot flashes: The week in Well+Being
You are reading our weekly Well+Being newsletter. Sign up here to get it delivered to your inbox every Thursday. If your summer travel plans start with a trip to the airport, you might be a bit concerned about one infectious disease that's making a comeback: measles. Although it was officially eliminated 25 years ago, the United States is now experiencing a pretty big outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told The Washington Post this week that there have been 62 known cases of people with measles who traveled on commercial airlines, and at least one person who caught the infection presumably from someone seated nearby.
The Independent
3 days ago
- General
- The Independent
Will norovirus surge early again this year? Here's what scientists say
Will the upcoming norovirus season be just as early and active as the past year? While the answer may be anyone's guess right now, federal health officials recently warned that the dominant strain of the contagious virus — the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the U.S. — has changed between the 2022-2023 and 2024-2025 seasons. 'GII.17 has caused 75 percent of all norovirus outbreaks during the 2024–25 season so far, thereby replacing GII.4 as the predominant norovirus outbreak strain in the United States,' Centers for Disease Control researchers wrote in an article published this month by the agency's Emerging Infectious Diseases journal. This past season also started at the earlier date of October, as opposed to December. GII.17 also drove a record wave of outbreaks. But, what all of this might mean going forward needs further research. 'Additional sequence analysis of complete GII.17 genomes and identification of cross-protective neutralizing antibodies of GII.17 compared with GII.4 viruses could help clarify whether GII.17 viruses will persist. Continued surveillance is needed to determine if this genotype remains the dominant genotype, as well as whether the norovirus season continues to start earlier than previous years,' they wrote. A spokesperson for the agency told CBS News that there are 'currently insufficient historic data to predict whether norovirus GII.17 will remain the dominant genotype and lead to an earlier onset of the norovirus season later this year.' They pointed to a surge of GII.17 strains in Asia and Europe in 2014 that was followed by no reports of a change to seasonality, and noted that there has been no clear evidence to prove that GII.17's emergence was the cause of a change to the norovirus season last year. Still, this past season reached the worst levels in a decade. There were 91 suspected or confirmed outbreaks during the first week of December, which Yale Medicine said exceeded the number of outbreaks during the same week in any year since 2012. The majority were the GII.7 strain. In years when there is a new strain of the virus, there can be 50 percent more norovirus illness. Cases continued to tick up months into this year. By May 7, there were 2,571 outbreaks. During the same time last year, there were only 1,358. 'The total number of outbreaks reported during the 2024 to 2025 seasonal year is above the range reported during the same period during the 2012 to 2020 and 2021 to 2024 seasonal years,' the CDC said. But, cases in the previous season were lower than normal. Typically, there are about 2,500 reported norovirus outbreaks in the U.S. each year. Cases have fallen markedly since January, and are now at low levels. While the outbreaks occur throughout the year, they are the most common from November to April as people head indoors and it's easier to spread norovirus through infected particles. Anyone who consumes raw shellfish is also at risk of contracting it. Infection can be deadly largely among adults aged 65 and up, but anyone can get sick. Children younger than 5 years old and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe infections. There are 900 deaths on average each year and between 19 and 21 million illnesses. There's no specific treatment for norovirus, but most people recover with a period of up to three days. 'The norovirus can spread so quickly, but also, as we already talked about, norovirus can be very — it's usually very fast. So yeah, if people are taking care of themselves, we leave them alone,' explained Dr. Joanna Bisgrove, a family physician at Rush University Medical Center. 'But if it keeps going, we're like, maybe this isn't norovirus, and we need to do other things.'
CBS News
26-05-2025
- Health
- CBS News
COVID variant NB.1.8.1 hits U.S. What to know about symptoms, new booster vaccine restrictions
Here's who the FDA says can get a new COVID-19 vaccine this fall amid a change in policy Cases of the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1, linked to a large surge in China, have been detected in multiple locations across the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners," a CDC spokesperson said in a statement last week. The spokesperson said that, so far, too few U.S. sequences have been reported of NB.1.8.1 to be included in the agency's variant estimates dashboard. But hospitalizations abroad have raised questions about the new variant, its symptoms and more. Here's what to know, according to experts. New COVID variant's symptoms NB.1.8.1 is associated with symptoms that are "broadly similar to those seen in earlier strains of the virus," Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, told CBS News in an emailed statement. Commonly reported symptoms include respiratory issues such as cough and sore throat, as well as systemic effects like fever and fatigue, he said. How dangerous is the new COVID variant? "Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily," Verma said. "In other words, it is more transmissible." Authorities in Hong Kong say there is no evidence that the variant, a descendant of the XDV lineage of the virus, is more severe than previous strains. Dr. Amy Edwards, assistant professor of pediatrics at the School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University who specializes in infectious diseases, also told CBS News there is some evidence in the lab that this variant binds more tightly to human cells, which means it is easier to transmit. But, that doesn't mean it leads to more severe infection. "What they're seeing in China, Hong Kong and some other areas where this variant has really surged, is an increase in hospitalization, but that seems to be more to do with just a standard summer surge that we've been seeing," Edwards explained, adding the available data is still preliminary, but that the variant "doesn't seem to be more severe." 2025 COVID booster shot Despite the latest variant displaying high transmissibility, the Trump administration is planning to limit booster vaccine access to some groups. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration said it will continue approving COVID-19 vaccine updates for seniors and those with an underlying medical condition, including pregnancy or diabetes, but will require vaccine makers to conduct major new clinical trials before approving them for wider use. The decision means many Americans without underlying conditions may not have access to updated shots this fall. Verma said these restrictions could have several significant public health impacts. "Although over 100 million Americans are still expected to qualify under these criteria, the administration's decision introduces new barriers for the broader population," he said. "One immediate concern is that the FDA's requirement for updated clinical trials could delay access to boosters for lower-risk groups, discouraging some individuals from seeking vaccination. The new policy may also create confusion and reduce vaccination rates if people are uncertain about their eligibility or worried about insurance coverage, particularly with high-cost manufacturers planning to charge." Edwards said the recommendation updates remain unclear. "Some of the language around pre-existing conditions is pretty loose," she explained. "The other thing is, it's not clear what variants are going to be in this year's vaccine, especially with some question around what kind of vaccine trials are going to be allowed." The new COVID-19 vaccination framework was laid out by the FDA's new leadership under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has publicly raised doubts about vaccines. "We had heard Secretary Kennedy say, we're not going to take away your vaccines, we're going to be super transparent. And in fact, what is happening is people are going to lose access to vaccines," Dr. Céline Gounder, CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, told "CBS Mornings Plus" following the FDA's announcement about vaccine approvals. Are there other ways to prevent infection? With questions about vaccine access up in the air, Edwards said there are still strategies for prevention. "Good cough and sneezing hygiene, good hand washing, staying home if you're not feeling well to keep other people from catching what you've got," Edwards advised. "If you're a little under the weather, but well enough to be out and about, wearing a mask." Despite some controversy around mask wearing, Edwards said they can prevent spread by keeping your germs to yourself. "One of the places where masks have long been known to be the most effective is in preventing someone who's ill from passing that infection to other people," she said. "So if I've got a slight sore throat, little bit of sniffles, obviously, that might not be enough to keep me home, but if I put a mask on, I can reduce the risk that I would transmit whatever I'm carrying to other people. And that's not just for COVID. That's any respiratory virus." Authorities in Hong Kong have also begun urging residents to mask when in public transportation or crowded places as cases have climbed. Sara Moniuszko Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper's wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News' HealthWatch. contributed to this report.
The Independent
21-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Measles cases have now spread to 30 states
Confirmed cases of measles have now been reported in 30 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In a recent update, the CDC said a total of 1,024 cases of the disease across the U.S., as well as 14 outbreaks – defined as three or more related cases – had been reported since the beginning of the year. According to the agency, the states affected are: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York State, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. New York City has also seen cases, according to the CDC. The CDC says that so far, 13 percent of all cases have resulted in hospitalization, and there have been three deaths in total. In a recent update, the CDC said a total of 1,024 cases of the disease across the U.S., as well as 14 outbreaks – defined as three or more related cases – had been reported since the beginning of the year (AFP/Getty) The majority of the cases have been reported in Texas, with the state Department of Health reporting on Tuesday that it had grown to 722 since its first outbreak in January. Texas has 92 patients hospitalized and two school-aged children confirmed dead from the illness since the start of the outbreak. New Mexico is the state with the second-highest number of measles cases in the country; 65 of the state's 74 confirmed cases have been reported in Lea County, with one death. The county is around 47 miles from Gaines County, Texas, where the vast majority of Texas' measles cases have been reported. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reported 56 confirmed cases as of Wednesday. According to the CDC, 92 percent of the total cases (947 of 1,024) are outbreak-associated. In contrast, 16 outbreaks were reported during 2024 and 69 percent of cases (198 of 285) were outbreak-associated. Texas is a state whose residents are among the most vaccine-averse in the nation, and their position has been boosted by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, who has a reputation for long speaking out against vaccinations, and initially downplayed the significance of a resurgence of measles in the U.S., where it had been nearly eliminated by 2000 due to vaccinations. In March Kennedy urged measles treatment with vitamin A, a certain steroid and antibiotics, none of which are supported by the medical community as a substitute for measles vaccines. He finally last month endorsed the MMR vaccine in a post on X as the 'most effective way to prevent the spread' of measles. The American Public Health Association has called Kennedy a 'danger to the public's health,' citing his promotion of 'unscientific theories' and reduction of funding and staff to treat public health crises.
CNET
07-05-2025
- Health
- CNET
Practice the 10-3-2-1-0 Sleep Rule to Cure Your Restless Nights
You aren't the only one tossing and turning, not getting enough sleep at night. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than a third of American adults don't get enough sleep. It happens to all of us but bad sleep is more serious than you might realize. It's associated with the development of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Thankfully, you aren't doomed to live with poor sleep. Focusing on your habits around bedtime can go a long way toward achieving better sleep. The 10-3-2-1-0 is a presleep routine that helps your mind and body wind down, prepare for sleep and ensure high-quality rest. What is the 10-3-2-1-0 sleep hack?Most adults require a good six to nine hours of quality sleep each night. The 10-3-2-1-0 is a presleep routine that helps you relax and signals your body and mind that it's time to wind down. Here is everything you need to know. 10 hours before bed: no more caffeine Caffeine is the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world. Caffeine consumption should ideally end 10 hours before bed because it can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle when consumed closer to bedtime. The half-life of a single dose of caffeine is about three to seven hours, so your body takes a minimum of 10 hours to eliminate caffeine from your bloodstream. This is a good general rule but 10 hours may be too rigid for some as sensitivity to caffeine varies. Along with coffee, caffeine may also be present in other drinks, such as sports drinks, soda, energy drinks, some teas and chocolate. Certain medications may also contain caffeine. You must read the labels of medications or drinks you're consuming, to avoid caffeine consumption around your bedtime. 3 hours before bed: no more food or alcohol Although consumption of alcohol before bed may seem to be relaxing, it is a common disruptor of sleep. It leads to decreased sleep quality and causes frequent overnight awakenings, which ultimately makes you feel tired throughout the next day. It may also be beneficial to avoid consuming certain foods three hours before bed, as they can lead to heartburn (acid reflux) and disrupt sleep. A few such foods include fried, spicy and high-fat foods. You may also want to avoid foods high in added sugars such as candies, cookies and desserts because they can also lead to poor sleep quality. 2 hours before bed: no more work You may want to end all work-related activities two hours before bed to ensure you get good quality sleep. Relaxing your mind will help you prepare for sleep. You can practice meditation, muscle relaxation and journaling to calm your mind after work. This helps to create a buffer time zone between your work and sleep time, allowing your brain to slow down and promoting a better quality of sleep. 1 hour before bed: no more screens It's suggested to avoid using smartphones, televisions, computers, tablets or other devices at least one hour before bed in your actual bed. Blue light before bed is not generally recommended but it is not as disruptive as we once thought. Sleep experts still urge you to avoid using screens in your bed before trying to go to sleep. If your bed is the one place you scroll on your phone or watch TV the most, the body will associate your bed as a place to be awake, making it harder to fall asleep at night. Hit snooze 0 times in the morning Hitting the snooze button may disrupt your sleep cycle, making you feel more tired. It's often better to get up with one alarm. The sleep between the alarms is often fragmented and low quality, which may decrease your overall alertness and motivation throughout the day. Along with making you tired, snoozing alarms can also make you late for your daily activities. Additionally, getting up with the first alarm, even if it feels difficult initially, can help reinforce a consistent sleep-wake pattern. Other sleep hygiene tipsA few common tips that will help to maintain your sleep hygiene and ensure good quality sleep every night include: Keep electronics out of the bedroom: Keeping electronics out of your bedroom will ensure you are not getting exposed to blue light from them, which can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle. Keeping electronics out of your bedroom will ensure you are not getting exposed to blue light from them, which can disrupt your sleep-wake cycle. Create a routine: Creating a sleep routine prepares your body and mind for sleep. It signals to your body that it is time to sleep, ensuring timely and good-quality sleep. Creating a sleep routine prepares your body and mind for sleep. It signals to your body that it is time to sleep, ensuring timely and good-quality sleep. Avoid late-night exercise: Although exercise is good for your health, doing it one to two hours before bed can disrupt your sleep. Rigorous exercise close to your bedtime can increase your heart rate, adrenaline levels and body temperature, thereby making it difficult for you to fall asleep. Try gentle stretching or yoga poses, instead. Although exercise is good for your health, doing it one to two hours before bed can disrupt your sleep. Rigorous exercise close to your bedtime can increase your heart rate, adrenaline levels and body temperature, thereby making it difficult for you to fall asleep. Try gentle stretching or yoga poses, instead. Keep mid-day naps to 30 minutes or less: Keeping your naps to 15 to 20 minutes or less can keep you energetic throughout the day. However, longer naps can interfere with your normal sleep time and make you feel lethargic and disoriented. Keeping your naps to 15 to 20 minutes or less can keep you energetic throughout the day. However, longer naps can interfere with your normal sleep time and make you feel lethargic and disoriented. Make your bedroom dark: Making your bedroom dark ensures high-quality sleep. Even low light can increase your risk of nighttime awakenings and disrupt your sleep cycle. Making your bedroom dark ensures high-quality sleep. Even low light can increase your risk of nighttime awakenings and disrupt your sleep cycle. Don't watch TV or scroll on your phone in bed: Scrolling your phone or watching TV in bed can associate your bed as a place to be awake. Try to only use your bed for sleep. Scrolling your phone or watching TV in bed can associate your bed as a place to be awake. Try to only use your bed for sleep. Wind your mind down before bed: Winding your mind before bed ensures your mind is calm and your body is preparing to fall asleep. This, in turn, ensures you get high-quality sleep and do not experience any awakenings. Does the 10-3-2-1-0 hack really work? Yrabota/Getty Images Better sleep means a better quality of life along with better mood, improved productivity and reduced stress. Instead of tossing and turning in your bed, try the 10-3-2-1-0 sleep routine. Many have reported that this routine is effective in preparing their body for sleep. Although getting used to any routine is difficult, focus on gradual, sustainable changes rather than a perfect routine to reduce stress and anxiety about sleep. Hopefully, this advice will help you unwind and make falling asleep and getting good quality sleep easier.
