Latest news with #Chlamydia
New York Post
21-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
I jokingly suggested a fungal infection as a baby name to my pregnant sister — and she's using it
An uncle has become the butt of his own joke after his pregnant sister took a list of gag names a little too seriously. It means that one day his niece could Google a fungal infection and find out the hard way that it's also her name. Taking to Reddit, the poster with the username Odd_Age1378 explained the situation. We'll call him Matt. 'The 'ass' smack dab it the middle of it' When his pregnant sister revealed she'd been struggling with finding a name, all Matt wanted to do was help. 'In addition to the $900 wooden crib on her list that I got for her, I gave her a list of (obviously) joke baby names. We have a really close relationship, and it was in line with both our senses of humor,' he explained. 5 An uncle has become the butt of his own joke after his pregnant sister took a list of gag names a little too seriously. Prostock-studio – Both siblings have interests in the medical field. Matt is a biology student, and his sister is a nurse. He wanted to stick to a theme when it came to crafting his list. 'All the names were medications, infections, unpleasant animals. All sound like lovely girls' names out of context. Some of them were a little bit obscure, sure, but I included some obvious ones like 'Viagra' and 'Hernia' for good measure,' he explains. Two weeks later, his sister and her husband landed on a name inspired by his contributions. 'Malassezia. The baby's name is Malassezia,' he bluntly states. (Well, at least it's not the better-known Chlamydia.) 5 'Malassezia. The baby's name is Malassezia,' the uncle said after learning what his sister and her husband named their daughter. kieferpix – I'll save you the Google. According to the University of Adelaide, Malassezia is a form of yeast that naturally lives on human skin. It can contribute to dandruff, atopic eczema, and fungal acne. No wonder Matt has several issues with the name. Firstly, it doesn't exactly roll off the tongue. 'Nearly impossible to pronounce on the first try, the 'ass' smack dab it the middle of it, the first syllable being mal-, literally meaning bad or evil,' he listed. 'This should be illegal' 5 Malassezia is a form of yeast that naturally lives on human skin. IgnatiusHarly – But the part that really makes his skin crawl is the fact that he and his sister are particularly familiar with the fungal infection. They've both had it. 'My sister and I are both genetically predisposed to it,' he explained. 'Her daughter will almost certainly catch it at some time!' Matt pointed all of this out to his sister. He insists she knew this was supposed to be a joke, but really likes the sound of Malassezia. He suspects her husband doesn't know what the word means. 5 Malassezia can contribute to dandruff, atopic eczema, and fungal acne. Parkin – 'She says that it's so obscure that no one will ever think twice about it. Except, you know, when little baby Malassezia turns 14, finds a weird spot on her neck, and goes on her phone to search for what it is…' The comment section praised him for pushing his sister to reconsider. 'Malassezia sounds like a Disney villain,' one commenter pointed out. Another advised: 'I'd also make a point of telling her husband what the name means.' 'This should be illegal,' a third added. 5 'She says that it's so obscure that no one will ever think twice about it. Except, you know, when little baby Malassezia turns 14, finds a weird spot on her neck, and goes on her phone to search for what it is,' the man continued. Jasmin Merdan – At a loss for what to do, Matt has attempted to pitch names that sound similar, such as Mallory, Azalea, or Anastasia. She wouldn't hear any of his suggestions. 'She said that since I'm not one of the parents, I have no business telling her what she can and cannot name her child. That I'm stepping way out of line,' he revealed. 'I think it's pregnancy hormones. She'll regret the decision very soon after her daughter is born.'
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Researcher issues warning about unexpected health risk lurking in coastal waters: 'Prevention is always better than cure'
It's the last thing anyone wants to think about when they're swimming in the ocean, but the contamination of raw sewage in sea waters is becoming what one researcher has called "an increasingly critical issue for public health." A February publication in the journal Microbiology, authored by Jonathan Cox of Aston University, provided an overview of the types and degrees of coastal water contamination from sewage, with a focus on the United Kingdom. Cox explained that several types of pathogenic bacteria are commonly found in such sources. These bacteria — including multiple strains of Vibrio, Chlamydia, E. Coli, Streptococci, and more — pose a "significant" risk to human health and the environment. Ingestion and inhalation of sewage-contaminated water have led to outbreaks of gastroenteritis and bacterial pneumonia. Exposure can also cause skin infections, ear and eye infections, and tonsillitis. As is the case with most public health threats, at-risk populations — much older, much younger, immunocompromised, and pregnant people — can be especially susceptible to serious illness. Aside from these human health concerns, the pathogens can endanger the balance and safety of entire coastal ecosystems. For example, the presence of sewage can cause algal blooms, which in turn can choke out resources like light and oxygen from reaching beneficial native plants and animals. And because shellfish serve as filter feeders — eating up organic matter or smaller organisms found in water — the bacteria can often accumulate within them. In fact, some people have developed severe food poisoning from affected shellfish. In grave cases, food poisoning can be fatal, but there are additional risks. The more this bacteria re-circulates in the food chain and food supply, and the more people are treated for the illness it causes, Cox warns, the more antimicrobial resistance may build, bringing weighty consequences. The World Health Organization estimated that bacterial antimicrobial resistance "was directly responsible for 1.27 million global deaths in 2019." Diarrheal disease, like gastroenteritis, is also a leading cause of mortality in children globally, driven largely by contaminated water and disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries. There, access to clean drinking water is often already compromised due to lack of infrastructure, ongoing conflict, drought, and more. Cox explains in the paper that while monitoring efforts and strict discharge standards are in place for sewage treatment plants, they may not be enough. "Storm overflows were intended to release surplus sewage into the sea on rare occasions," he writes, "but despite this intention, some water companies are responsible for up to 200 discharges of raw untreated sewage into our coastal waters each year." How often do you worry about the quality of your drinking water? Never Sometimes Often Always Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Further, "during heavy rainfall events, water companies will continue to discharge untreated sewage into the sea," potentially almost as a matter of course when systems are overwhelmed. In a world where heat-trapping pollution sends global temperatures higher and higher, exacerbating extreme weather events like rainstorms and floods, contamination risks for coastal waters seem likely to increase. Many coastal communities are already geographically and infrastructurally vulnerable to storm surges and floods as sea levels rise, so they may face compounding problems. Researchers are developing new water treatment technologies, such as ultraviolet disinfection and phage applications, but many of these are currently too expensive to implement at scale. Sewage contamination isn't exactly the flashiest cause to root for — making some noise about it could improve investment in R&D so that one day these innovations might work where they're needed most. In the meantime, if you're swimming, surfing, paddling, or otherwise recreating in public waters, it's best to be cautious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you'll want to do your research, observe the actual water quality on site, never drink unclean water, avoid swimming if you're sick or have an open wound, and make sure to shower before and after your swim. "Whilst we're waiting for the improved management, innovation and investment that is required to solve the issue and save our seaside, don't bury your head in the sand regarding water quality," warns Cox. "Check before you swim. Afterall, prevention is always better than cure." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Business Wire
30-04-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
binx health and WellStreet Urgent Care Increase Access to Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Testing and Care In-clinic
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--binx health, a healthcare technology and diagnostics company focused on making routine testing convenient, today announced a new partnership with WellStreet Urgent Care, a leading healthcare provider based in Atlanta, Georgia. WellStreet Urgent Care is taking steps to improve the way patients access sexually transmitted infection ('STI') treatment and care through advanced Point-of-Care ('POC') technologies throughout WellStreet Urgent Care locations. The program is powered by the binx io, an FDA-cleared, CLIA-waived, molecular PCR chlamydia and gonorrhea ~30-minute test for male and female patients. Together, WellStreet Urgent Care and binx health are redefining diagnostic access by providing patients and providers an avenue for same day test and treatment all in-clinic. With the launch of this program at 115 locations across WellStreet brands such as Piedmont, Corewell Health Urgent Care, Prisma Health and University Hospitals, WellStreet Urgent Care aims to reduce the barriers and challenges associated with traditional STI testing pathways. Today, patients are waiting on average 24-72 hours for a chlamydia and gonorrhea test result. This time lag can result in delayed or unnecessary treatment and further infection spread while increasing patient anxiety. 1, 2 With the binx io, WellStreet Urgent Care will provide patients PCR reference lab-comparable results in the same patient visit, setting a new standard for patient care. WellStreet's Chief Operating and Medical Officer, Michael Duchynski, MD, MBA, said, 'In urgent care, we often only get one opportunity to diagnose and treat our patients, and providing same-day testing, results, and treatment has a profound impact on patient outcomes. With the ability to test, receive results, and begin treatment all in one visit, we're not only improving patient satisfaction but also significantly enhancing the speed, quality, and effectiveness of care.' STIs continue to pose a significant public health challenge, highlighting the need for new technologies geared at prevention and early detection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) chlamydia and gonorrhea prevail as the two most common STIs with over 2 million cases in the U.S annually. 3 These infections can be asymptomatic and if left untreated, can lead to long-term complications including infertility, chronic pelvic pain and increased susceptibility to other infections. 4, 5 POC platforms like the binx io, make routine testing accessible and help to mitigate these negative health outcomes. "Partnering with binx health to offer same-day molecular PCR testing and subsequent specific treatment for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea is critical,' said Brian S. Bobb, M.D., Senior Medical Officer, SVP at WellStreet Urgent Care. 'By integrating this advanced testing technology into our clinics, we're not only enhancing operational efficiency, but, more importantly, improving patient care by reducing wait time and anxiety. Diagnoses that used to take days to determine can now be confirmed via this seamless, one-visit approach, allowing us to provide timely, effective care while minimizing the risk of further transmission or complications. It's a vital step toward delivering higher-quality, more accessible healthcare for our communities.' Through a same day test and treat model, WellStreet Urgent Care and binx health are empowering individuals to take control of their sexual health in a way that is convenient, discreet, and affordable. 'Binx is incredibly proud to partner with WellStreet to bring POC male and female STI testing to their facilities throughout the US,' added binx Health President, Mike Karsonovich. 'Urgent Cares play an integral role in how communities access healthcare and we at binx are very excited to play a part in helping WellStreet to improve patient access to such important sexual health diagnostics and care.' Individuals within Georgia, Ohio and South Carolina can access same-day chlamydia and gonorrhea testing at participating WellStreet Urgent Care locations. Information on participating locations and prospective patient information can be found by visiting About WellStreet Urgent Care Founded in 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia, WellStreet Urgent Care began as an independent operator and quickly expanded to a network of seven locations within its first year. In 2014, WellStreet pioneered its partnership model, joining forces with Piedmont Healthcare to extend the Piedmont Urgent Care brand across North Georgia. This model continued to evolve in 2019 when WellStreet partnered with Beaumont, now Corewell Health, to operate a network of urgent care centers in Southeastern Michigan. Further expanding its reach, WellStreet entered into new partnerships in early 2023 with University Hospitals and Prisma Health, strengthening its presence in the urgent care industry. Despite rapid growth, WellStreet remains dedicated to delivering best-in-class quality and an exceptional patient experience, ensuring uncompromising care for each patient, one at a time. WellStreet is committed to adapting and innovating to meet the healthcare needs of tomorrow, always prioritizing the well-being of those it serves. About binx health binx health is a leading healthcare technology and diagnostics company that aims to improve patient access to STI diagnostics at the Point of Care. The Company works with a variety of health care entities who have a significant interest in delivering or facilitating improved access to critical STI diagnostics in-clinic. Their most recent achievement, the binx io, is an FDA-cleared, CLIA-waived, molecular PCR chlamydia and gonorrhea test. Male and female patients can receive lab-comparable test result in ~30 minutes which enables providers to implement a same day test & treatment model for patients. For more information, please visit
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Potential new antibiotic for gonorrhoea as superbugs rise
Scientists have found the first new antibiotic treatment for the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhoea since the 1990s. Experts discovered that gepotidacin, an antibiotic currently used to treat urinary tract infections, can also treat gonorrhoea. It comes as experts warned that cases of gonorrhoea infections that are resistant to antibiotics are on the rise in England. The UK Health Security Agency said in March that if the problem is not tackled, increased resistance could one day make the sexually transmitted infection (STI) 'untreatable'. Many sexual health services in England now offer free #STI self-sampling kits you can order to your home & use to test for infections like #Chlamydia, #Gonorrhoea, #Syphilis and #HIV. More info 👉 — UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) February 11, 2025 But a new study suggests that gepotidacin – which is taken as a pill – may help treat cases and could potentially help to alleviate the threat of treatment-resistant gonorrhoea infections. A new study, published in The Lancet and presented at the ESCMID conference, saw experts compare gepotidacin with the current standard treatment for 'uncomplicated' gonorrhoea in 628 patients. They found that the new pill is as effective as ceftriaxone with azithromycin for treating the infection. It was also found to be able to treat strains of the infection that were resistant to current first-line treatments. The authors said that 'gepotidacin demonstrated non-inferiority to ceftriaxone plus azithromycin' which offers a 'novel oral treatment option for uncomplicated urogenital gonorrhoea'. 'Gepotidacin is a novel oral antibacterial treatment with the potential to become an alternative option for the treatment of gonococcal infections,' they wrote. Gonorrhoea can usually be treated effectively, although some cases can be resistant to the antibiotic ceftriaxone, which is the first line of treatment. This means the bacteria that causes the infection has developed the ability to survive and multiply even when exposed to the antibiotic. Some cases are also classed as 'extensively drug resistant' – or XDR – meaning the infection did not respond to ceftriaxone or the second line of treatment. Figures from the UKHSA show that in the 15 months from January 2024 to March 2025, there were 17 cases of ceftriaxone-resistant gonorrhoea. When enjoying holidays overseas, practising safer sex is just as important as getting travel insurance or applying sunscreen 🏖️ Discover the risks & symptoms of #Gonorrhoea in our new blog post: — UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) March 28, 2025 Thirteen were reported in 2024, with four cases in 2025 so far. This is compared to 16 cases across 2022 and 2023. In the same period, there were nine XDR cases reported – six in 2024 and three in 2025 so far. This is compared to five cases between 2022 and 2023. Ceftriaxone-resistant gonorrhoea was first detected in England in 2015 and 42 cases have since been reported. The UKHSA said that there were about 54,965 gonorrhoea diagnoses at sexual health services in the first nine months of 2024 compared to more than 85,000 in the whole of 2023.
Associated Press
28-03-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Visby Medical Receives Landmark FDA De Novo Authorization for First-Ever OTC PCR Test for Sexual Health
SAN JOSE, Calif., March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Visby Medical™, a leading innovator in medical diagnostics, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted De Novo authorization for the Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test for Over the Counter (OTC) use. This groundbreaking test enables reliable, rapid, and private at-home testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis—the three most common curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test represents a significant milestone as the first-ever PCR (polymerase chain reaction) diagnostic device approved by the FDA for OTC home use for any indication. Unlike existing home-based STI tests that require mailing samples to a lab, Visby's revolutionary technology provides results directly to users within 30 minutes, utilizing real PCR technology, which is recognized as the gold standard in diagnostic accuracy. 'This approval is not just a milestone for Visby Medical but marks a transformative moment in medical diagnostics,' said Adam de la Zerda, PhD, Founder and CEO of Visby Medical. 'We've achieved something incredible; our palm-sized, single-use PCR test is simple to use and replaces a bulky, large, expensive laboratory instrument. After 12 years of development, our device delivers rapid, reliable results directly into the hands of consumers, with unparalleled convenience and privacy. We also built a state-of-the-art, fully automated manufacturing line ready to rapidly scale production in anticipation of growing consumer demand.' Clinical studies involving over 2,000 lay users demonstrated that the Visby Medical Women's Sexual Health Test delivers accuracy comparable to traditional laboratory-based PCR machines, enabling healthcare providers to confidently prescribe treatment based on its results. An intuitive companion app guides users through the entire testing process, including sample collection, test execution and interpretation of results, while delivering a seamless connection to further care options. 'The clinical significance of bringing a rapid, highly accurate PCR diagnostic test into the home environment cannot be overstated,' said Gary Schoolnik, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Visby Medical. 'Extensive clinical studies validate that this test empowers women to quickly understand what steps to take next, giving them the privacy, control, and confidence to seek the care they need. Importantly, many patients infected with these STIs are non-symptomatic, yet they can still suffer serious long-term health consequences. Our test directly addresses this silent epidemic by enabling detection and treatment.' Sexually transmitted infections remain widespread in the United States. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates approximately 1.6 million new Chlamydia cases and more than 700,000 Gonorrhea cases reported annually. Trichomoniasis also affects millions of people annually in the United States, highlighting the urgent need for rapid and accurate diagnosis. The granting of this De Novo marketing authorization positions Visby Medical for significant expansion into the at-home diagnostics market, with plans underway to introduce additional OTC tests addressing respiratory infections, sore throat conditions, urinary tract infections, and other common illnesses. 'This is just the beginning of our journey into reshaping healthcare through at-home diagnostics,' added Dr. de la Zerda. 'We will soon announce several strategic and commercial partnerships.' FDA's official announcement can be accessed here. About Visby Medical™ Founded in 2012, Visby Medical is revolutionizing infectious disease diagnosis by empowering both physicians and patients to accurately test for infections anywhere, anytime, with laboratory accuracy. The company's proprietary technology platform delivers true PCR results in under 30 minutes through the world's first instrument-free, single-use PCR tests that fit in the palm of your hand. Currently, Visby Medical offers FDA-cleared tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), available both in point-of-care settings and now directly to consumers at home, and respiratory infections (COVID-19 and flu), available for point-of-care settings. Visby Medical is actively expanding its platform with a wide range of future tests for the at-home and point-of-care markets.
