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Indianapolis Star
09-07-2025
- Health
- Indianapolis Star
Measles was eradicated in the US 25 years ago. This week, cases reached a new high.
For the first time since measles was declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000, domestic cases have reached a peak, topping 1,288 as of Wednesday, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Outbreaks have reached 38 states since the beginning of 2025, according to CDC tracking data, resulting in at least 162 hospitalizations. The majority, 92%, occurred in unvaccinated people and children under the age of 19. There have been three confirmed deaths. While Demetre Daskalakis, Director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, told members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices that cases were hitting a "plateau" in a June 25 meeting, at least 61 new cases have been confirmed since, with one new state being added to the list. Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that was previously considered eradicated in the U.S. as of 2000, meaning there was no spread and new cases were only those contracted from abroad. Vaccinations have declined, resulting in a growing number of states no longer reporting rates consistent with herd immunity, and infections have returned. The last outbreak of a similar scale occurred in 2019, when a total of 1,274 cases were confirmed across the country. Just six months into 2025, that number has well been surpassed in a grim milestone. Of all confirmed cases in 2025, 88% of them are associated with the outbreak, which has centered heavily in the southwest, with Texas reporting 753 cases across 35 counties and New Mexico reporting 95 total cases as of July 9. Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease caused by a virus that primarily, and most severely, affects children. According to the World Health Organization, it infects the respiratory tract before spreading throughout the body. The virus is one of the most contagious infectious diseases to exist; so contagious, in fact, that 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed end up contracting it. Additionally, one in five of those people end up hospitalized, according to the CDC. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella) protects against measles with a 97% efficacy rate and is typically given to children as part of the regular course between the ages of 12 and 15 months for the first dose and ages 4 to 6 for the second. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the nation's top health official, has issued mixed messages to parents amid the outbreak, encouraging the vaccine but falsely linking it to adverse outcomes and suggesting remedies that experts have warned against, such as the use of vitamin A for prevention and treatment. Despite RFK Jr. saying he isn't anti-vaccine during confirmation hearings, he has continually falsely linked vaccines to autism, co-founded an anti-vaccine group and urged parents not to vaccinate their children. Though the current outbreak resulted in the first measles deaths in a decade, RFK initially called the surge in cases "not unusual.'
Chicago Tribune
25-06-2025
- Health
- Chicago Tribune
Public health officials confirm state's first human West Nile case of the year
The first human case of West Nile virus in Illinois has been confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The state agency announced Tuesday evening that a southern Illinois resident tested positive for the virus after being hospitalized. This is the earliest in the year that a human case of West Nile has been observed in Illinois since 2016, officials said. While this is the first human case of the year, the West Nile virus had been confirmed in 19 counties so far, with the earliest detection in Rockford on May 9. The IDPH routinely tests batches of mosquitoes for West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses. Last year, the virus was found in 72 of Illinois's 102 counties. 'The fact that we are seeing the first human case of West Nile virus so early in the season serves as a timely reminder — especially for seniors and those with weakened immune systems — to protect yourself from illnesses caused by mosquito bites,' IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a statement. Last year, there were 69 cases of West Nile, 13 of which resulted in deaths. The majority of people infected with West Nile do not show symptoms, but for roughly 1 in 5 individuals, it can lead to severe illnesses. The risk is especially high for those older than 60 or with compromised immune systems. The IDPH recommends that Illinois residents reduce their risk of contracting the disease by avoiding mosquito bites. This can be done through using EPA-registered mosquito repellants, especially those containing DEET, and by making sure that open doors and windows have screens. They also recommend dumping stagnant water that's been standing for a week or more, as mosquitoes require standing water to reproduce. If you encounter standing water that you cannot pour out, it can be reported to 311. West Nile virus is largely spread to humans through mosquito bites; it is rarely contagious between humans. It can also be found in birds and horses. West Nile is often transmitted from the house mosquito, a medium-sized mosquito that is typically brown in color. Most mosquito bites occur early in the evening, but can occur any time of day.
Elle
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Elle
8 Of The Best Summer Beach Hats That Will Help You Stay Cool and Covered
If you're anything like me—a.k.a. someone who burns as soon as they look at the midday sun—beach hats are a saving grace. Thankfully, there's no shortage of options that are both stylish and easy to pack. Whether you're a bucket hat lover or someone fond of a Western-inspired moment à la Hailey Bieber, the best beach hats will not only turn your swimwear and cover-ups into a full look, but they'll also save your nose and forehead from turning lobster red quicker than you can even check the UV index. Regardless of your skin tone and tolerance for the sun, dermatologists are united in their belief that covering up during the hottest hours of the day is crucial. In its official sun safety guidelines, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommends wearing a hat that shades your face, ears, and the back of your neck—particularly one made of canvas or in a darker color for added protection—between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whether you're heading out of the city for a sandy getaway or have a tropical vacation in mind, I pulled together the best (and chicest) sun hats to wear all season. Keep the sun out of your eyes—and off your face—in style, with these. Los Angeles-based label Janessa Leone is a firm favorite of editors, including ELLE US's senior fashion commerce editor, Dale Arden Chong. Think minimalist-leaning, made-to-last headwear in sustainable materials. I've personally taken my Greta straw hat everywhere—from Spain and Italy to Mexico—over the years, and it's never let me down when it comes to sightseeing or sunbathing on the beach. Sizes: S-L Colors: Black, Dark Earth, Tan Materials: 100% straw There's something undeniably cool about wearing a straw cowboy hat to the beach. This delicious chocolate brown option from Australian label Lack of Color is made to be styled with a turquoise bikini, gold body chain, vintage sunglasses, and a carefree attitude. Sizes: S-XL Colors: Carob Materials: 100% paper Customer review: 'I couldn't love this hat any more! The perfect shape and shade for summer (and beyond). Love how lightweight it is —consider it my new favorite hat!' The bestselling Lantern style from Madewell is an under £100 fan favorite for a reason. The flippable brim on this roomy bucket hat lets you wear it slightly off your face while still offering enough coverage to shield you from the sun on a hot day at the beach or park. Sizes: S/M-M/L Colors: 6 optionsMaterials: 100% raffia Customer review: 'I've never really been a hat wearer, but just as I was about to wrap up my shopping, this one caught my eye. I tried it on and instantly fell in love. It's the perfect size and shape and the perfect little accessory to complete a look!' Whether you have an adventure on the agenda or just want to kick back in the sun, this easy-to-pack wide-brim hat is a reliable companion for destination beach trips. It folds like a dream while keeping its shape. The adjustable leather tie is a chic addition—and comes in handy when the wind hits the shore. Sizes: One size Colors: White, Mixed Coffee, Toast, Mixed Green Materials: 100% paper straw Customer review: 'I'm taking a road trip to the southwest and really needed a hat that was good quality, would cover my face and neck, and that I could tighten in case it gets windy! This hat is all of those things and super cute.' With light distressing at the edges, this bucket hat is both casual and cool. Hide underneath it for a day of reading and watching the waves. Then, style it with a colorful sarong and beaded accessories when you hit the beach bar come sundown. Colors: Navy, Black, White Materials: 100% cotton With 40 years of experience, Hat Attack consistently delivers trusty accessories. Its sustainably minded, made-in-the-USA hats hold their shape for years, and there's no shortage of classic colorways and styles to elevate your vacation 'fits. Take this fully lined, frayed-edge number, for example—it will enhance even the simplest of swimsuits. Colors: Solid Natural, Solid White Materials: 55% linen, 45% cotton With plenty of colorways available, there's sure to be a Bondi Bucket Hat for you. Rendered in Solbari's signature UPF 50+ Technical Performance fabric, this comfortable, breathable hat also comes dermatologist recommended. Colors: 10 options Materials: 100% nylon Customer review: 'Perfect lightweight hat and coverage for Florida sun. The cinch allows a tight fit for windy days and stays in place. Quality and style are best I've found for price. Highly recommend.' This wide-brimmed straw hat from Nikki Beach aces it in the boho beach glamour category—it also boasts UPF 50+ protection. I love the conversation-starting shell detailing, which turns any seaside look into a moment. Sizes: S/M-M/L Colors: White Every product featured on is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such. Freya Drohan is a fashion editor, writer, stylist, and brand consultant with over 15 years of experience. She began her career in the newsroom in her native of Dublin, Ireland. Previsouly, she was the the editor in chief of the NYFW content app, HEED and the executive fashion director at The Daily Front Row. Her writing has been published by Harper's Bazaar, Vogue, the Wall Street Journal, Elle, Cosmopolitan, InStyle, Maxim, and more. As a copywriter and strategist, she has worked alongside fashion, beauty, tech, and hospitality brands helping them hone their editorial identity and define their voice and point of view. Freya has appeared on Fox5, New York1, Katie Couric Media, and podcasts as a fashion expert. To date, she has interviewed hundreds of celebrities, designers, and models for print, video, and online features. Freya is currently a judge for the SUPIMA Design Competition and a member of the CFDA Fashion Awards Guild where she is passionate about nurturing new talent in the industry and creating compelling fashion content across platforms. Follow her on Instagram @freyadro, where she documents her collection of 300+ dresses and the adventures of her dachshund, Gorgeous George.
Calgary Herald
17-06-2025
- Health
- Calgary Herald
Breakenridge: Premier in lockstep with U.S. 'failure of policy and science'
Article content As parts of the U.S. — much like Alberta — continue to grapple with measles outbreaks, the American Health and Human Services secretary has been making some unfortunate statements about the measles vaccine. Article content Although Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tepidly endorsed the vaccine earlier this year, he more recently claimed that vaccine-induced immunity is short-lived and that the vaccine hadn't been 'safety-tested' — both of which are untrue. This is the same man who previously falsely claimed that the polio vaccine had killed more people than polio itself. Article content Article content Article content The same man, now the agency's secretary, has fostered chaos and uncertainty around vaccines by abruptly firing the entire vaccine advisory panel at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Article content Article content It is dismaying to see what is unfolding south of the border, but it is alarming to see Alberta's government taking its cue on these matters from this administration. I don't think the premier has jumped on the 51st state bandwagon, but it's unclear why we're deferring to the Americans on any issue. Article content In a late Friday afternoon news dump last week, the Alberta government abruptly announced a massive overhaul of the administration of COVID-19 vaccines. Article content Essentially, it means that Albertans who are not immunocompromised or who do not receive certain provincial social benefits will have to pay out-of-pocket for the vaccine. Accessing the vaccine will be more difficult, as it will only be offered in public health clinics. Article content Article content The government claims it is 'committed to ensuring Albertans who are at highest risk' still have access to vaccines. However, that does not include pregnant women nor does it include those who work in health-care settings. It should be noted that the standing guidance from Canada's National Advisory Committee on Immunization recommends a vaccine for at-risk groups, including both pregnant women and health-care workers. Article content Article content But apparently, Alberta's government is more interested in RFK's guidance than NACI's. Friday's news release notes that 'recently, the Federal Drug Administration in the United States stopped recommending routine COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women and healthy children.' There is no mention of any standing recommendations from any Canadian bodies or officials. Article content It could be a coincidence, but it's interesting to note that the executive director of the premier's office has previously praised Kennedy, saying it's 'hard not to cheer for this man' and that he 'seems to possess great character.'
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
A northern Arizona county is reporting 4 measles cases, the state's first in 2025
Health officials in Navajo County in northern Arizona say they've confirmed four measles cases, which are the first cases of the highly contagious respiratory virus in Arizona in 2025. The announcement from the Navajo County Public Health Services District June 9 came amid a national surge of measles, with 1,168 cases reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control as of June 6, which is more than four times the number reported during all of 2024. Compounding the threat for Arizonans are recent cases in five neighboring states: California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas and Utah. The four cases in Navajo County involve people who were not vaccinated against measles. The four were infected from a single source and have a recent history of international travel, health district officials say. Public health officials are trying to identify locations where exposure may have happened and are in the process of identifying people who may have been exposed, the Navajo County health district said in a written statement. Officials estimate the "potential exposure" dates were between May 17 and May 28 and said anyone who may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. Symptoms include a high fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, a cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a rash beginning at the head and spreading downward A measles outbreak that began earlier this year in Texas killed two unvaccinated school-age children, resulted in 94 hospitalizations and totaled 742 cases overall. In a related outbreak, New Mexico health officials as of June 3 reported 81 measles cases and the death of one adult who tested positive for measles. Arizona is particularly vulnerable to a measles outbreak because community protection has been waning as an increasing number of parents and guardians are choosing not to vaccinate their children with the Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine, known as MMR. There likely are several reasons for the decline, including problems accessing the vaccine, vaccine skepticism and a lack of scientifically accurate education about the risks and benefits of immunization against vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles. Measles can affect people of any age and cause an array of complications, including deafness, blindness and brain inflammation, in addition to death. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective in protecting against measles infection, evidence shows. Reach health care reporter Stephanie Innes at or follow her on X: @stephanieinnes. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona confirms 4 measles cases amid a national surge
