The Rising Threat of Human Metapneumovirus: What You Need to Know

The Rising Threat of Human Metapneumovirus: What You Need to Know

In the realm of public health, awareness is a powerful tool. As we navigate through the complexities of the global health landscape, a new threat has emerged, catching many by surprise. This threat is the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a relatively unknown virus that has seen a significant rise in cases recently.

Laundry detergent pods risky for children

Study finds laundry detergent pods, serious poisoning risk for children — One young child per day hospitalized in 2012 and 2013 because of pods; researchers recommend households with young children use traditional detergent instead – Laundry detergent pods began appearing on U.S. store shelves in early 2010, and people have used them in growing numbers ever since. The small packets can be tossed into a washing machine without ever having to measure out a liquid or powder. The convenience, though, has come with risks for young children.

Measles cases growing in US – 288 cases reported in 2014

288 cases of measles reported in 2014 in US and measles cases are growing – Measles is an acute, contagious viral disease, usually occurring in childhood and characterized by eruption of red spots on the skin, fever, and catarrhal symptoms. In US, since January, 288 cases of measles were reported and number is growing.

MERS infection rising in Saudi Arabia

MERS cases spike to 339 in Saudi Arabia — 8 new MERS deaths take Saudi toll to 102 – The Saudi health ministry announced eight new deaths from the MERS virus on Sunday taking the kingdom’s death toll from the disease to 102. The number of recorded infections in the kingdom has risen to 339, it added.

Codeine often prescribed to children in U.S. emergency rooms

UCSF study finds codeine often prescribed to children in U.S. emergency rooms, despite available alternatives – Despite its potentially harmful effects in children, codeine continues to be prescribed in U.S. emergency rooms. There is a need to change prescription behaviors to promote the use of better alternatives to codeine, such as ibuprofen or hydrocodone.

Acetaminophen pain drug can cause rare serious skin reactions

FDA Warns of Rare Acetaminophen Risk — Acetaminophen linked to three serious skin diseases – Acetaminophen, a fever and pain reliever that is one of the most widely used medicines in the U.S., can cause rare but serious skin reactions, warns the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

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