Latest news with #infections
Health Line
8 hours ago
- Health
- Health Line
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Immunodeficiency disorders prevent your body from fighting infections and diseases as well as it should. This type of disorder can make it easier for you to develop viral or bacterial infections. Key points Immunodeficiency disorders affect your body's ability to defend itself against bacteria, viruses, and parasites. There are two types of immunodeficiency disorders: those you are born with (primary) and those that are acquired (secondary). Anything that weakens your immune system may lead to a secondary immunodeficiency disorder. Immunodeficiency disorders are either congenital or acquired. A congenital, or primary, disorder is one you were born with. An acquired, or secondary, disorder is one you get later in life. Acquired disorders are more common than congenital disorders. Your immune system includes the following organs: spleen tonsils bone marrow lymph nodes These organs create and release lymphocytes, which are white blood cells classified as B cells and T cells. B and T cells fight invaders by detecting specific parts of them known as 'antigens.' B cells release antibodies specific to the antigen that your body detects. T cells can destroy foreign or atypical cells. Your B and T cells might need to fight off: bacteria viruses cancer cells parasites An immunodeficiency disorder disrupts your body's ability to defend itself against these. What is a weak immune system? If you have a 'weaker' immune system, it means your body is immunocompromised. This means your body can't fight off infections or viruses as well as people who are not immunocompromised. While a weaker immune system is typically caused by certain diseases, malnutrition, and certain genetic disorders, it may also be temporary, as a result of medications such as anticancer drugs and radiation therapy. Your immune system can also be temporarily weakened by a stem cell or organ transplant. Signs of an immunodeficiency disorder There are hundreds of types of immunodeficiency disorders. Each disorder has unique symptoms that can be frequent or chronic. However, there are a few warning signs that something may be going on with your immune system. Individuals with immunodeficiency disorders tend to have frequent infections — one round after another — of certain conditions, such as: pink eye sinus infections thrush colds chronic gum disease (gingivitis) pneumonia yeast infections Individuals with immunodeficiency disorders may also develop chronic abdominal pain, and they may even lose weight over time. If you find that you get sick easily and have a hard time shaking off viruses and other infections, your doctor might suggest you get tested for an immunodeficiency disorder. What are the different types of immunodeficiency disorders? An immune deficiency disease or disorder occurs when the immune system is not working as expected. If you're born with a deficiency from a genetic cause, it's called primary immunodeficiency disease. There are more than 200 primary immunodeficiency disorders. Examples of primary immunodeficiency disorders include: common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), which is also known as alymphocytosis chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) Secondary immunodeficiency disorders happen when an outside source, like a chemical or infection, weakens your body. The following can cause a secondary immunodeficiency disorder: severe burns chemotherapy radiation diabetes mellitus malnutrition Examples of secondary immunodeficiency disorders include: stage 3 HIV cancers of the immune system, like leukemia immune-complex diseases, like viral hepatitis multiple myeloma (cancer of the plasma cells, a type of B cell that produces antibodies) Causes and risk factors Primary immunodeficiency disorders are most commonly caused by inherited gene mutations. People who have a family history of primary immunodeficiency disorders have a higher risk of developing primary disorders themselves. Secondary immunodeficiency disorders can be caused by a variety of things, including: chronic conditions (like diabetes or cancer) drugs radiation therapy (this is rare) long-term hospitalization insufficient nutrition Anything that weakens your immune system can lead to a secondary immunodeficiency disorder. For example, exposure to body fluids containing HIV or organ removal and replacement can both be causes. Aging can also weaken your immune system. As you age, some of the organs that produce or process white blood cells shrink and become less efficient. Proteins are important for your immunity. Not getting enough protein in your diet can weaken your immune system. Your body also produces proteins when you sleep that help your body fight infection. For this reason, lack of sleep can reduce your immune defenses. Cancers and chemotherapy drugs can also reduce your immunity. How are immune disorders diagnosed? If your doctor thinks you might have an immunodeficiency disorder, they may: ask you about your medical history perform a physical exam check your overall white blood cell count determine your T cell count measure your immunoglobulin levels Your doctor may also perform a skin test, which is usually done when a T-cell abnormality is suspected. During a skin test, a small number of proteins from common infectious organisms (like yeast) are injected right under the skin. If there's no reaction (such as swelling or redness) within 2 days, that can be a sign of an immunodeficiency disorder from a T-cell abnormality. Biopsies of the lymph nodes or bone marrow may also be performed to help your doctor narrow down which disorder may be causing your symptoms. A doctor may also recommend genetic testing, usually via a blood test, to determine if there are any gene mutations that may be causing your immunodeficiency disorder. How are immunodeficiency disorders treated? Treating immunodeficiency disorders typically involves: preventing infections when possible treating infections when they occur strengthening parts of your immune system Antibiotics and immunoglobulin therapy are two types of medications often used in treatment. Other antiviral drugs, like oseltamivir, acyclovir, or interferon, are sometimes used to treat viral infections caused by immunodeficiency disorders. If your bone marrow isn't producing enough lymphocytes, your doctor might suggest a bone marrow (stem cell) transplant. Can immunodeficiency disorders be prevented? Primary immunodeficiency disorders can be managed and treated, but they can't be prevented. The risk of developing secondary disorders can sometimes be lowered through lifestyle choices. For example, it's possible to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by eating a nutritious diet and getting enough physical activity. Sleep is very important for a healthy immune system. According to the CDC, long-term sleep loss may lead to a variety of chronic conditions and weaken the body's ability to fight infections. What type of doctor treats immunodeficiency disorders? If your primary care physician has diagnosed you with an immunodeficiency disorder or suspects you might have one and wants an expert opinion, they will most likely send you to an immunologist. Immunologists specialize in immunodeficiency disorders. Typically, after gaining a bachelor's degree, individuals who want to become immunologists must go through 9 years of additional medical training. To be board certified, they must pass an exam by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI).
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Florida currently leads the nation in Vibrio vulnificus infections, but how common is it?
Florida currently leads the nation in Vibrio vulnificus infections, but how common is it? Florida has reported four deaths associated with a "flesh-eating" bacteria known as Vibrio vulnificus, which has seemingly set off a bit of panic throughout the state. There have been 11 confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus and four deaths, according to data published by the Florida Department of Health on July 11, putting the state more or less in line with the average number of cases by July (16.5). Escambia and Santa Rosa counties also reported their first cases of flesh-eating bacteria of the year, each reported a single count. 'Flesh-eating' bacteria: 2 cases found in Escambia, Santa Rosa counties Like the rest of Florida, the Pensacola area is no stranger to Vibrio vulnificus cases. In 2019, the News Journal reported on a Pensacola man who nearly died after contracting flesh-eating bacteria while fishing in his kayak in Big Lagoon. The man noticed his right leg began to hurt a few hours after he got home. After another 15 to 20 minutes, he said a boil came up 'out of nowhere' and he was unable to walk. After a long stay at Ascension Sacred Heart and at least 10 surgeries, he had to learn to talk again. Over the past 10 years, Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, on average, have reported fewer than a handful of Vibrio vulnificus cases annually. Flesh-eating bacteria are a dangerous virus, but thankfully rare to encounter. If you're concerned about contracting it, here's what to know to prevent it. Escambia and Santa Rosa counties have had 48 confirmed flesh-eating bacteria cases since 2015 Escambia and Santa Rosa counties have averaged around 3.4 and 1.8 annual cases of flesh-eating bacteria between 2015 and 2024, respectively, according to the Florida Department of Health. Both counties saw the highest number of cases in the nine-year period in 2022, when Escambia County had five confirmed cases and Santa Rosa County had four. For Florida as a whole, 2022 saw the second-highest number of reported flesh-eating bacteria cases at 74. The highest number was 83, which was reported in 2024. Does Pensacola Beach have flesh-eating bacteria? Vibrio vulnificus bacteria are naturally occurring in warm saltwater and brackish water, which is a mixture of saltwater and freshwater, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Vibrio can be found in waters throughout Florida, but not all Vibrio bacteria cause the sort of flesh-eating infection that leads to necrotizing fasciitis, which is when the infection kills flesh surrounding an open wound. To complicate matters, swimming in contaminated waters isn't the only way to become infected. Another source of infection is contaminated raw or undercooked seafood, especially shellfish such as oysters. Florida has averaged around 54 annual cases of flesh-eating bacteria since 2015 Florida leads the nation in Vibrio vulnificus infections, though spikes in cases and deaths tend to coincide with major hurricanes, when seawater is carried on shore, triggering flooding and dumping seawater into freshwater sources. Between 2015 and 2024, Florida averaged 54 Vibrio vulnificus cases and about 11 deaths each year. The state saw an uptick in cases and deaths in 2022 when Hurricane Ian battered communities along the southwest coast, leading to 74 reported cases and 17 deaths. Last year, the state recorded 82 cases and 19 deaths – a surge health officials tied to a pair of damaging hurricanes, Helene and Milton. How many people have died from flesh-eating bacteria in Florida? According to the FDOH 4 people have died so far in 2025, as of Friday, July 11: Bay County: 1 Broward County: 1 Hillsborough County: 1 St. Johns: 1 Between 2008 and 2025, 178 people in Florida have died from Vibrio vulnificus, according to FDOH records. How many cases of flesh-eating bacteria have been reported in Florida? According to the FDOH, 11 cases have been reported so far in 2025, as of Friday, July 11: Bay County: 1 Broward County: 1 Escambia County: 1 Hillsborough County: 1 Lee County: 1 Manatee County: 1 St. Johns County: 2 Santa Rosa County: 1 Walton County: 1 How you can prevent becoming infected from flesh-eating bacteria It's difficult to completely avoid potentially coming into contact with Vibrio in Florida if you enjoy seafood or the beach. Here are some tips from the health department on preventing Vibrio vulnificus. Do not eat raw oysters or other raw shellfish. Cook shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) thoroughly. For shellfish in the shell, either a) boil until the shells open and continue boiling for 5 more minutes, or b) steam until the shells open and then continue cooking for 9 more minutes. Do not eat those shellfish that do not open during cooking. Boil shucked oysters at least 3 minutes, or fry them in oil at least 10 minutes at 375°F. Avoid cross-contamination of cooked seafood and other foods with raw seafood and juices from raw seafood. Eat shellfish promptly after cooking and refrigerate leftovers. Avoid exposure of open wounds or broken skin to warm salt or brackish water, or to raw shellfish harvested from such waters. Wear protective clothing (e.g., gloves) when handling raw shellfish. Can flesh-eating bacteria Vibrio vulnificus be treated? Yes and it's crucial that anyone who believes they are infected seek medical attention as soon as possible. Severe or prolonged Vibrio infections are treated with antibiotics. Vibrio wound infection is treated with antibiotics and surgery to remove dead or infected tissue, according to the CDC. In serious situations, surgery may include amputation. The CDC doesn't recommend antibiotics to treat mild Vibrio infections. Anyone experiencing diarrhea or vomiting should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. What are the symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus? Common symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever, according to the CDC. When open wounds are exposed to contaminated salt or brackish water, Vibrio vulnificus can cause discoloration, swelling, skin breakdown and ulcers. The bacteria can also invade the bloodstream and threaten severe and life-threatening illnesses such as septic shock, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. "Vibrio vulnificus bloodstream infections are fatal about 50 percent of the time," according to the Florida Department of Health. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Is 'flesh-eating' bacteria common in the Pensacola area? Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
Spain and Turkey travel warning over sickness affecting 1 in 10 tourists
UK holidaymakers heading abroad have been urged to take precautions as new data revealed the number of travel-related illnesses. According to the UK Health Security Agency, gastrointestinal (GI) infections remain the most common travel-related illness national - accounting for 65% of cases. And the UKHSA revealed that countries most associated with GI infections among UK tourists are: Turkey (16.2% cases), Spain (10.4%), India (7.9%), and Egypt (6.8%). READ MORE: Seven counties in England set to escape 30C heatwave arriving in weeks Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp, click the link to join Regionally, the West Midlands recorded the highest number of travel-related GI infections in England, according to the UKHSA. There were a total of 477 cases among travellers from the region - representing 17.6% of cases in England. The main bugs causing these infections include cryptosporidium, giardia and salmonella - generally picked up from infected water and food. As holidaymakers gear up for summer getaways abroad, the UKHSA has issued guidance to help tourists avoid travel-related infections: During your trip Practise good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water Follow food and water hygiene advice, for example avoid undercooked food and drink bottled water when appropriate Avoid insect and tick bites – use insect repellent and mosquito nets in high-risk areas Practise safe sex If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies After returning Seek medical advice if you have symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, rash or jaundice Avoid school or work for 48 hours after gastrointestinal symptoms resolve Complete the full course of malaria tablets when you get home Get tested for STIs if you have had unprotected sex
ABC News
3 days ago
- Health
- ABC News
WA's flu season tipped to be second-worst in past decade as cases surge
It feels like every year we're told this is one of the worst flu seasons on record. But this time around, doctors really mean it. We're only part-way through July and the rate of infections is already nearing full-year figures for previous years. It's worrying experts, including the Australian Medical Association, whose president said West Australians should buckle up for a "difficult couple of weeks ahead". Professor Yuben Moodley is a professor of respiratory medicine at the University of Western Australia, and said he expected this year to be the second-worst flu season in the last decade. "The virus evolves and mutates every flu season and the aim of the virus is to avoid our immune response and to then infect cells more efficiently," he said. "There's certain times and certain flu strains which are more effective in doing that than others. That does not necessarily mean the flu is getting more severe, however. "What happens though is that we have an increasing ageing population who are becoming more susceptible to the flu," Professor Moodley said. "The flu in a young, healthy person is not going to have major consequences, but if you have much more aged people, it certainly will result in more hospitalisations than previously. "So an increase in the ageing population will result in increased presentations to the doctor or to hospital." It comes as national data showed a 50 per cent increase in hospital admissions over a fortnightly period due to the winter surge. Those increased presentations have been blamed for increased pressure on hospitals, as shown by ambulance ramping figures. Ambulances are considered "ramped" when they spend more than half-an-hour waiting outside a hospital to hand over a patient. The average hours paramedics have spent ramped each day has been increasing significantly in WA since May, and is currently sitting just shy of records set at the peak of the pandemic. Premier Roger Cook said it was not surprising the system would be under pressure at this time of year. He also denied St John Ambulance struggling to meet its response time targets showed there needed to be extra capacity in the health system. "We need to make sure that we deploy taxpayers' funds in an efficient manner, so you don't want to have too much extra capacity, you don't want to have too little extra capacity," he said. "It's a matter of balance. "But [the system's] performing well … and we'll continue to look at how we can improve hospital services." Cook's view is in stark contrast to medical groups, including the Australian Medical Association, who suggest the state is at least 1,000 hospital beds short of being able to meet demand. "While demand on our hospitals is high, it is being managed and pausing elective surgeries is not something that is being considered," Health Minister Meredith Hammat said during the week. Compounding issues is that WA's flu season started earlier than usual. "This year in particularly, possibly because of increased travel over the last six months, we have seen a worse flu season earlier than we expected," WA Health Director General Shirley Bowen told budget estimates earlier in July. "Normally in Western Australia we might see a flu peak in July, August or September, often more in the August period. "This year we saw new cases in January. That is sort of an overflow from the situation in the UK and Europe." The solutions, of course, seem simple: vaccination and staying home when sick. Actually getting people to do either of those things is much more difficult. Western Australia's flu vaccine coverage was 25.4 per cent at the end of June — one per cent behind the national average and tied for second-last with Queensland. Asked on Friday if she was happy with the uptake of the vaccine, Seniors Minister Simone McGurk would only the say the government was "sending a very, very strong message that we want people to be vaccinated" by making it free. Professor Moodley thinks more needs to be done. "I think it is important to address vaccine scepticism a little more strongly,"he said. "Perhaps we can actually improve our outreach to people and to educate people better. Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton said earlier this month apathy was an issue. "I am told the rate is about two per cent better than the case last year," she said. "I do not want anyone to be complacent. We need to be doing much better than that to really have an even better impact on keeping people healthy and out of hospitals." Like anything in health, that's likely to be expensive and take a long time. It means at this stage, as cases continue to grow, there's little to do but stick to the basics and manage the pressures that result.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Florida reports 11 cases, 4 deaths from flesh-eating disease
Florida has reported [11 infections and four deaths]( from Vibrio vulnificus, also known as the flesh-eating disease, [in 2025]( V. vulnificus infections are most prevalent during summer, when warmer water temperatures help the bacteria flourish. The risk of infection is even higher following a storm in coastal regions like Florida, because storm surge can help the bacteria spread. How do flesh-eating infections occur? Individuals can become infected through open wounds exposed to contaminated water or by consuming undercooked seafood. Higher-risk individuals include people with compromised immune systems, those with liver disease, or anyone with an open wound. Health officials urge people to avoid swimming or wading in floodwaters. If any signs of infection appear, seek immediate medical attention. Hurricanes, heatwaves cause unusual spike in cases In 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton brought heavy rain and storm surge to the region, causing an unusual spike in V. vulnificus infections. The storms caused saltwater and freshwater to mix, creating an abundance of the warm, brackish saltwater V. vulnificus thrives in. By the end of the year, 82 infections and 19 deaths were recorded. In the summer of 2023, a heatwave and elevated sea surface temperatures caused 11 cases of severe flesh-eating infections in North Carolina, Connecticut, and New York. Five people died. Header image: File photo of V. vulnificus under a microscope (CDC/Wikipedia). Public domain.
