Americans will soon be able to self-test at home to find out whether they have COVID-19, the flu or another common germ, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The first nonprescription test that can spot all three respiratory viral illnesses was approved Monday by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and will be available at retail stores… read on > read on >
Rates of childhood obesity in the United States are soaring, and new research suggests child care programs may be part of the problem. Most tots in these programs aren’t getting nearly enough exercise. National guidance for child care programs calls for providing at least two opportunities a day for physical activity, totaling 60 to 90… read on > read on >
Leukemia at a young age is likely to affect survivors’ longevity, a new study cautions. Even when they’re cured, teen and young adult survivors of leukemia have shorter life spans than those who’ve never had a blood cancer, researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found. “We need to think about the… read on > read on >
Certain common viruses, including the genital herpes virus, might contribute to the risk of type 2 diabetes, a new study hints. Type 2 diabetes is a highly prevalent disease, with older age and obesity being two of the major risk factors. Now the new study suggests that two herpes viruses — herpes simplex 2 and… read on > read on >
A single booster dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine can be given to 5- to 11-year-olds, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today. The third shot can be given at least five months after healthy kids complete the two-dose vaccine series, the FDA said. Its action, which now goes to the U.S. Centers for… read on > read on >
Vaccination against the virus that causes most cervical cancers has spurred a widespread reduction of infections among young Americans — including those who are unvaccinated, a new government study finds. The study, by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, looked at the impact of the nation’s HPV vaccination program, which began in 2006.… read on > read on >
The manufacture and sale of products known as crib bumpers and sleep incliners — linked with more than 200 infant deaths in the United States — will be banned under a new law signed by President Joe Biden. “This is a long-fought and important victory for babies and anyone who cares about babies,” Teresa Murray,… read on > read on >
Four men in England have been infected with a “rare and unusual” monkeypox virus. Investigators from the United Kingdom’s Health Security Agency are investigating the cases and whether there is any connection between the men, according to the Associated Press. None of the individuals had traveled to the African countries where the virus is endemic.… read on > read on >
Estrogen loss during menopause may worsen women’s pain from a jaw disorder, a new study warns. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) causes pain in the jaw joint and affects an estimated 4.8% of U.S. adults, or about 12 million people. Some estimates suggest that as many as 15% of U.S. adults have at least one symptom of… read on > read on >
A nationwide baby formula shortage continues across the United States, with desperate parents scouring shelves to find nutrition for their infants. Millions of babies rely on formula — the only source of nutrition recommended for infants who aren’t exclusively breastfed. Two prominent pediatricians have advice for parents who are scrambling to find formula, offering a… read on > read on >
