The experts who want to redefine obesity to improve the health of millions of people around the world

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Image source, Getty Images photo caption, Experts say that people with excess body fat can still be active and healthy. Item information Author, Philippa Roxby Author’s title, BBC News, Health Correspondent January 16, 2025 A report prepared by experts from around the world warns that there is a risk of diagnosing too many people with obesity, and that a “more precise” and “nuanced” definition of this term is needed. Doctors should take into account the overall health of patients with excess fat, rather than simply measuring their body mass index (BMI), the report says. Those who suffer from chronic diseases caused by their weight should be diagnosed with “clinical obesity,” but those without health problems should be diagnosed with “preclinical obesity.” It is estimated that more than one billion people suffer from obesity worldwide, so there is a great demand for weight loss medications. The report, published in the magazine The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinologyis supported by more than 50 medical experts from around the world. New look “Obesity is a spectrum,” says Francesco Rubino, a professor at King’s College London and president of the group that carried out the research. “Some suffer from it and manage to lead a normal life, function normally.” “Others cannot walk or breathe well, or are in a wheelchair and have serious health problems.” Image source, Getty Images photo caption, There is a difference between overweight people who can be physically active and lead healthy lives and those who cannot, the report says. The report calls for “reframing” the concept of obesity to distinguish between patients with a disease and those who remain healthy but are at risk of disease in the future. Currently, in many countries, obesity is defined as having a BMI greater than 30, a measure that estimates body fat based on height and weight. Access to weight loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro is usually restricted to patients in this category. However, according to the report, BMI reveals nothing about a patient’s overall health, and does not distinguish between muscle and body fat or take into account the more dangerous fat around the waist and organs. Experts advocate a new model that takes into account the signs of obesity that affect the body’s organs – such as heart disease, dyspnea, type 2 diabetes or joint pain – and its detrimental impact on daily life. This indicates that obesity has become a clinical disease and needs pharmacological treatment. Image source, Getty Images photo caption, Access to weight loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro is often restricted to patients with a high BMI. However, people with “preclinical obesity”, instead of drugs and surgery, should be offered weight loss advice, counseling and follow-up to reduce the chances of health problems developing. Treatment may also be necessary. “Unnecessary treatment” “Obesity is a health risk; the difference is that for some it is also a disease,” Professor Rubino said. The expert added that it was sensible to redefine it to know the level of risk in a broad population, instead of the current “blurred image of obesity.” According to the report, waist-to-height ratio or direct measurement of fat, along with a detailed medical history, can provide a much clearer picture than BMI. Image source, Getty Images photo caption, BMI is not an index that gives us information about a person’s health status, the report says. Louise Baur, a childhood obesity expert at the University of Sydney who helped produce the report, says the new approach will allow obese adults and children to “receive more appropriate care”, while reducing the number of overdiagnoses and unnecessary treatments. At a time when drugs that reduce body weight by up to 20% are being prescribed on a large scale, the report states that this “rethinking” of obesity “is all the more relevant” as it “improves the accuracy of diagnosis.” “Limited funding” The Royal College of Physicians of London says the report lays a solid foundation “for treating obesity with the same medical rigor and compassion as other chronic diseases.” Distinguishing between preclinical and clinical obesity would be “a vital step” and would “highlight the need to identify and intervene early,” while providing appropriate care to patients whose health was already severely affected, the college said. Many fear that pressure on healthcare budgets will mean less money for “pre-obese” patients. Jim Mann, co-director of the Edgar Center for Diabetes and Obesity Research in Otago, New Zealand, said there was likely to be an emphasis “on the needs of those defined as clinically obese” and that limited funding was “very likely” to be intended for them. Subscribe here to our new newsletter to receive a selection of our best content of the week every Friday. And remember that you can receive notifications in our app. Download the latest version and activate them.

Eating processed red meat increases dementia risk, study reveals

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Although the dementia It is a disease more common in older adults or the elderly, hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with early dementia each year. Several factors could point to having increased risk of suffering from this disease, among which something so common in diet like red meat. The largest and most robust dementia study to date was conducted in 2023, analyzing data collected on 356,052 people under the age of 65 in the UK. The results, published by the magazine JAMA Neurology and collected by the portal ScienceAlertpointed to a series of factors, among which were elements related to the lifestyle and health. Among these factors, stood out a low socioeconomic level, social isolation, hearing impairmentstrokes, diabetes, as well as vitamin deficiency or excessive alcohol consumption. Now, new research published this January 15 in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, Neurologyemphasizes diet, particularly processed red meat, such as sausages, bologna or bacon, as a factor that multiplies the risk of developing dementia throughout life. An observational study The research, carried out jointly by the hospital network Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, in the United States, concludes that Higher consumption of red meat, particularly processed red meat, is associated with a higher risk of developing dementia and poorer cognition. The researchers, led by Yuhan Li, of the Harvard University Department of Epidemiologyindicate that their objective was to examine the association between red meat intake and multiple cognitive outcomes, since previous studies had shown inconsistent associations between these two parameters. However, they detail that the research is solely observational, so a direct cause and effect relationship cannot be established. All in all, a total of 133,771 people were measured in this study over 43 years, with an average age of 49 years at the beginning of the study. Of the initial group, 11,173 people developed dementia. Swap red meat for nuts The results indicate that participants with an intake of processed red meat greater than 25% per day (approximately two slices of bacon, one and a half of bologna or a hot dog), compared to those who consumed only 10% per day, had 13% increased risk of dementia. The researchers point out that replacing red meat processed by a diet rich in nuts and legumes It was associated with a 19% lower risk of dementia in the patients analyzed. Experts, however, point out that we must also consider clinical, demographic and lifestyle factors, such as socioeconomic level and family history of dementia to assess all the results. They also insist that more research would be needed to evaluate, for example, how general these findings are in populations of diverse ethnic origins. Connect diet and brain health For Dong Wang, of the Brigham and Women’s Hospital network in Boston and one of the lead authors of the study, “dietary guidelines tend to focus on reducing the risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabeteswhile cognitive health is analyzed less frequently, despite being linked to these diseases,” according to a note. “We hope our results encourage greater consideration of the connection between diet and brain health,” he adds. The study defines processed red meat as bacon, hot dogs, sausages, salami, bologna and other processed meat products. While the unprocessed was set as beef, pork, lamb and hamburger. Keep reading:

Tips to protect yourself from smoke and prevent damage during the Los Angeles fires

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Wildfires in Los Angeles have caused a worrying cloud of smoke that affects air quality in much of Southern California. The density of the smoke not only causes discomfort, but also serious health risks for millions of residents. Next, We explain the dangers of forest fire smoke and the measures you can take to minimize its effects. Why is wildfire smoke so dangerous? Smoke generated by forest fires contains a mixture of toxic gases and tiny particles, known as PM2.5, that represent a serious risk to human health. These particles are so small that They can penetrate deep into the lungs and even reach the bloodstream, causing systemic damage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to these particles can: * Aggravate respiratory diseasessuch as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). * Increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. * Contribute to premature deaths. Besides, urban fires, where synthetic materials are also burned, release chemicals, such as cyanide and carbon dioxide, which aggravate pollution. There are people who are more vulnerable to suffering from health-related conditions due to the smoke and poor air quality caused by the fires in Los Angeles. (Photo: Chris Pizzello/AP) Who are the most affected? Although smoke affects the entire population, certain groups are particularly vulnerable: 1) Children: Their lungs are fully developing and their faster breathing rate exposes them to absorbing more pollutants. This can cause inflammation, coughing, and worsening of conditions such as asthma. According to Dr. Lisa Patel, a professor at Stanford Children’s Health, wildfire smoke is up to 10 times more toxic to children than other sources of pollution. 2) Seniors: The immune system of the elderly is less efficient, making them more prone to respiratory and cardiovascular complications caused by smoke exposure. 3) People with pre-existing conditions: Individuals with asthma, COPD, heart disease or diabetes face a higher risk of serious complications. Fine particles can worsen your conditions and increase the risk of hospitalizations. 4) Pregnant women: Exposure to smoke can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus, increasing the risk of premature birth, low birth weight and maternal complications such as hypertension and preeclampsia. How does it affect air quality in Southern California? More than 17 million people in Southern California are under alert due to wildfire smoke. In some areas near the fires, the air quality index (AQI) has exceeded 170 points, considered dangerous for the health of the general population. Even tens of kilometers away, in places like Long Beach or Rancho Palos Verdes, The AQI has reached unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. Strong winds also contribute to transporting smoke to more distant areas, amplifying the impact. Certain precautions must be taken in the presence of smoke in almost the entire city. (Photo: Chris Pizzello/AP) How to protect yourself from forest fire smoke? To minimize the risks of smoke, follow these recommendations: 1) Stay indoors * Close doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering. * Use air conditioning systems or air purifiers with HEPA filters. These devices are effective at reducing particles in indoor air. * Create a safe room in your home with an air purifier, especially if there are children, the elderly or people with respiratory conditions. 2) Avoid activities that pollute indoor air *Do not use candles, incense or gas stoves. *Do not vacuum, as this can raise dust and fine particles. 3) Wear masks when going out * Opt for N95 or P-100 masks, that filter fine particles. Surgical or cloth masks are not effective against PM2.5. 4) Protect children * Keep the children inside the house as much as possible. * Children over 2 years old they must wear a tight-fitting mask if they have to go out. 5) Handle ashes safely *Wear protective clothing, Gloves and glasses when cleaning ashes. * Moisten ashes before sweeping to prevent them from dispersing into the air. * Discard the ashes in sealed plastic bags. 6) Monitor air quality * Consult interactive maps and air quality alerts, such as those from the AQMD, to find out the conditions in your area. * Download apps or sign up to receive notifications. 7) Plan for future emergencies * Stock up on masks and air filters. * Have an emergency kit with essential medications and drinking water. * Make sure you have fire extinguishers and know how to use them. What to do if you can’t avoid smoke? If, despite your efforts, symptoms such as eye irritation, difficulty breathing, or persistent cough continue, Consider finding temporary shelter where the air quality is better. Many communities offer public spaces with filtered air, such as libraries or community centers. Keep reading: * Fires in Los Angeles: Can sea water be used to fight fire?* Fires in Los Angeles: 3 reasons why they could not be put out* “Firenado”: ​​The shocking fire tornado that formed in one of the fires in Los Angeles

Tips to prevent norovirus on your next cruise trip

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2024 marked a negative record for the cruise industry in the United States, with the highest number of gastrointestinal illness outbreaks in more than a decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, 16 outbreaks of infections were recorded on board, of which 13 were attributed to norovirusknown as “the cruise ship virus.” This significant increase raises serious concerns about health safety on these vessels, especially following the recovery of the sector after the Covid-19 pandemic. The impact of norovirus on cruise ships Norovirus, which causes gastroenteritis, is extremely contagious and often spreads in closed environments with high density of people, such as cruise ships. In 2024, this virus was responsible for more than 90% of the gastrointestinal outbreaks reported on these vessels. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, explained that norovirus can infect with a very small viral dose and survive for days on contaminated surfaces. This facilitates its spread in shared spaces such as dining rooms and cabins. According to the CDC, cruise ships also face the challenge of repeated outbreaks, which They can occur due to persistent environmental contamination or infected personnel. 2024 recorded a total of 16 outbreaks, exceeding the 14 reported in 2023 and the 10 in 2019, the last full year before the pandemic. During the period 2020-2022, cases decreased due to the temporary suspension of cruise ships. Norovirus is also known as the “cruise ship virus.” (Photo: Shutterstock) Among the most notable outbreaks of 2024 are: * Salmonella: On Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas, reported in September.* E.coli: On Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova, which occurred between March and April.*Unknown cause: On Allure of the Seas, also from Royal Caribbean. For an event to be classified as an outbreak, at least 3% of passengers or crew must report symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, according to the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP). Why are cruise ships vulnerable to these outbreaks? Cruise ships are a unique environment where infectious diseases find favorable conditions to spread: * Closed and shared spaces: Passengers and crew live in high-density areas, such as cabins, dining rooms and entertainment areas.* Fast rotation: Ships have little time to disinfect between the departure of one group of passengers and the arrival of another.* Multiple origin of the virus: Norovirus can come on board through contaminated food, water, or infected passengers on the ground. Additionally, norovirus tends to be more prevalent during the winter months, as shown by CDC data: Of the 16 outbreaks in 2024, eight occurred between December and February. The impact on the cruise industry The cruise industry, already hit by pandemic restrictions, faces a new challenge to maintain public trust. Although the CDC emphasizes that only 100% of norovirus outbreaks in the US occur on cruise ships, recent incidents could affect travelers’ perceptions of the safety of these voyages. A CDC spokesperson stressed that it is still uncertain whether the increase in outbreaks in 2023 and 2024 represents a sustained trend. However, the data highlight the need to implement stricter prevention and control measures. There are many factors that make it easy to contract norovirus on a cruise ship. (Photo: Shutterstock) How to protect yourself against illnesses on board a cruise The CDC recommends taking preventative measures before and during travel to reduce the risk of contracting diseases such as norovirus. These are some of the top suggestions: Before traveling: Consult your doctor if you have symptoms or questions about your health.Ask the cruise line about alternative options if you are sick. During the trip: Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.Avoid touching shared surfaces and use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.If you feel unwell, inform the ship’s medical center immediately and follow the staff’s recommendations. General measures: Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration if you develop symptoms.If you spot someone sick near you, avoid contact and notify staff.These practices not only help prevent norovirus, but also other common infections on cruise ships. What to expect in the future? The increase in outbreaks over the past two years raises important questions about health and safety practices in the cruise industry. While these incidents represent a small percentage compared to the total outbreaks in the country, companies will need to redouble their efforts to ensure a safer environment. This includes implementing more rigorous cleaning protocols, educating crew and passengers, and improving rapid response strategies for outbreaks. With the start of 2025, the challenge will be to demonstrate that the industry is prepared to face these situations and regain the trust of travelers, who seek to enjoy safe vacations free of health concerns. Keep reading: * Why children are more vulnerable to norovirus* Norovirus outbreaks on the rise in the US: What’s happening and how to protect yourself?

Kendall Jenner Flaunts Fit Figure In Skintight Athleisure: Photos

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PHOTOS Source: Sean Thomas/Courtesy of Adanola/Mega Kendall Jenner debuted her brunette bob in November 2024. Jan. 9 2025, Published 6:01 pm ET When it comes to campaigns, Kendall Jenner always kill it! The model looked stunning while starring in a photoshoot for Adonala’s new activewear collection. Article continues below advertisement Source: Sean Thomas/Courtesy of Adanola/Mega The model looked stunning as she posed for her partnership with Adanola. Article continues below advertisement In photos obtained by OK!the 29-year-old rocked her brunette bob — which she debuted in November 2024 — while posing in a variety of sporty selects at a Los Angeles studio. In one of the snaps, Jenner raised her arms to show off her toned tummyas her white sports bra peaked out beneath her sweater. Article continues below advertisement Jenner showed some skin in another image while peering over her shoulder in an open-back outfit with a blue sweatshirt tied around her slim waist. An additional photo saw The Kardashians star modeling a royal blue T-shirt and leggings workout set, which tightly hugged her legs and arms to accentuate her fit body. Article continues below advertisement Source: Sean Thomas/Courtesy of Adanola/Mega Kendall Jenner rocked an open-back athleisure style in a recent photoshoot. Article continues below advertisement The fashionable collection — which is priced from $38-$130 — featured touches of nostalgic styles from the ’80s and ’90s and could easily be transitioned from athleisure to streetwear in seconds. In a press release about the partnership, Adanola founder Hyrum Cook praised: “Kendall represents the modern Adanola woman—effortlessly stylish, adaptable, and always on the go.” Article continues below advertisement “We’re thrilled to have her bring our vision for this collection to life, as she perfectly embodies the blend of form and function we strive for in every piece,” the statement continued. Jenner shared a video of the campaign to her Instagram profile on Tuesday, January 7, alongside the caption: “hiii @adanola.” MORE ON: Kendall Jenner Want OK! every day? Sign up here! Article continues below advertisement Source: Sean Thomas/Courtesy of Adanola/Mega Kendall Jenner’s leggings perfectly hugged her fit physique. Article continues below advertisement Article continues below advertisement In her campaign with Calzedonia, Jenner wore nothing but a pair of tights as she hid her chest by holding her bosom with her hand or bending down so her legs covered her exposed intimate area. As the creative director of FWRD, the A-lister shockingly went braless in a see-through black dress for her shoot with the brand released earlier this month. Article continues below advertisement Source: Sean Thomas/Courtesy of Adanola/Mega Kendall Jenner showed off her flexibility while doing a backbend for her latest campaign. Article continues below advertisement Jenner’s nipple could be seen through the sheer fabric in one photo, while her cleavage was put on full display in another. In a different snap from the January 1 drop, the reality star donned a silk slip dress and seductively posed with a wet-hair look. When Jenner’s role with FWRD was announced in 2021, the 818 Tequila founder explained: “(This position) means an additional step in my journey with fashion, where I can work with the brands and creative teams I have admired in fresh, new ways. “ “I see this as a great opportunity to put what I’ve learned into practice, and most likely learn even more,” she added at the time.

Why are children more affected by norovirus?

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Norovirus, also known as “stomach flu,” is registering a significant rebound in the United States, with children under 5 years old as the most vulnerable population. This virus is responsible for up to one million pediatric emergency room visits each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Its high contagiousness and the conditions in which it proliferates make it a recurring threat, especially in environments such as schools and daycares. Below, we break down how to recognize this disease, why it affects children the most, and what steps to take to prevent its spread. What is norovirus? norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The most common symptoms include: * Vomiting* Diarrhea* Abdominal pain* Mild fever Although it is called the “stomach flu,” this condition is not related to the flu caused by the influenza virus. Most people recover in one to 3 days, but the virus can continue to spread through feces and vomit for several days after symptoms appear. Norovirus is particularly concerning because It can survive on contaminated surfaces for long periods of time and resist many common disinfectants. This makes it especially problematic in closed, crowded spaces. Many children get sick from norovirus at this time of year because it is easy to spread. (Photo: Shutterstock) Why does norovirus affect children more? Children under 5 years old are especially vulnerable to norovirus for several reasons: 1) Immature immune system: It is still developing, which makes them more susceptible to severe infections.2) Hygiene habits: Young children tend to touch contaminated surfaces and frequently put their hands in their mouths, increasing the risk of infection.3) Environments conducive to the virus: Spaces such as daycares and schools facilitate transmission due to close contact between minors. Lisa Cooper, a microbologist at the University of California, explains: “Children touch everything and put their hands in their mouths more frequently than adults, which increases the risk of infection.” According to the CDC, norovirus is responsible for 2,270,000 outpatient visits annually, the majority in young children. In this age group: * 1 in 160 will require hospitalization*1 in 110,000 dies due to complications such as severe dehydration One of the main risks of norovirus is dehydration, which can be particularly dangerous in children. Signs of dehydration include: * Extreme fatigue* Dry mouth and throat*Reduced urine production* Dizziness*Drowsiness or irritability According to the Mayo Clinic, “dehydrated children may cry with few or no tears and become unusually sleepy.” If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. The impact of the current norovirus outbreak In December 2024, 22.28% of the 1,940 people tested for norovirus tested positive, reflecting a worrying increase in cases. The CDC anticipates the outbreak will continue through the first weeks of 2025. Every year, norovirus illnesses in the US. generate losses of approximately $2,000 million dollars due to healthcare costs and loss of work productivity. Measures to prevent the spread of norovirus Preventing norovirus is key to reducing the burden on health systems and protecting children. The main measures include: Correct hand washing: * Use soap and water. * Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing a baby’s diaper, or before eating. * Avoid relying exclusively on hand sanitizers, as they are less effective against norovirus. Surface disinfection: * Regularly clean toys, tables, doorknobs and other frequently touched surfaces with disinfectant solutions effective against viruses. Avoid sharing utensils and food: * Teach children not to share glasses, bottles or cutlery. * Keep sick children at home: * Do not send children to school if they have norovirus symptoms. This principle not only protects other children, but also teachers and school staff, who may also be affected. Libby Richards, a nursing professor at Purdue University, points out: “When sick children attend school, they not only infect their classmates, but also affect the quality of education due to faculty attrition.” With these measures, it is possible to protect children and minimize the impact of this highly contagious disease. Keep reading: * Health alert: oysters removed from the market due to norovirus risk in Washington* CDC warns of norovirus outbreak or “stomach flu”: How to recognize its symptoms* Take care of yourself and you will avoid the new stomach virus

First death from bird flu confirmed in the United States

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Bird flu claimed its first life in the United States, as confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The victim, a Louisiana resident over the age of 65 with pre-existing medical problems, He contracted the virus after coming into contact with sick birds in a home chicken coop. Genetic analyzes of the virus suggest that it mutated within the patient, probably aggravating his illness. This case is part of the 66 infections confirmed cases of avian flu in humans in the country since last March, although the previous symptoms were mild and occurred mainly in agricultural workers exposed to infected birds. Bird flu: A historically lethal virus The H5N1 bird flu virus is not new on the health radar. Since 2003, it has caused more than 460 deaths worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Jennifer Nuzzo, director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University, highlighted the seriousness of the virus and called the death a “tragic reminder” of its lethality. In a recent case, a Canadian teenager became seriously ill after contracting H5N1, reinforcing uncertainty about the factors that cause severe illness in some patients and mild illness in others. Nuzzo warned that the current mild cases do not guarantee the same trend in the future. We can contract the bird flu virus if we are in contact with birds infected with it. (Photo: CDC/NIAID/AP) Despite the death, the CDC emphasized that There is no evidence of significant mutations that increase the risk of transmission between humans. Additionally, authorities have found no signs that the virus is spreading from person to person. However, 2 recent cases in Missouri and California, whose source of infection remains unclear, maintain active surveillance. H5N1 continues to spread widely among wild birds, poultry, and other animals, increasing the likelihood of human exposure. The case in Louisiana marks the first infection in the US associated with a domestic farm, according to the CDC. Given this panorama, the authorities reiterate the importance of following protective measures. Those handling sick or dead birds should wear protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and masks. These precautions not only reduce the risk of infection, but also help slow the spread of the virus. Although the risk of sustained human-to-human transmission remains low, there is a need for constant surveillance. The virus has proven to be a persistent and lethal threat, and its growing presence in the environment requires a coordinated response between health authorities and the public. Keep reading: * Agriculture Department Orders Federal Bird Flu Testing of Milk* Four Colorado poultry workers diagnosed with bird flu* Bird flu exposed: 5 keys to understanding its global reach

Increase in norovirus cases: keys to protect yourself

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In December, The United States has experienced an unusual increase in norovirus outbreaks, according to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In the first week of the month, 91 norovirus outbreaks were reported, suspected or confirmed, a figure higher than that recorded during the same period in previous years, including those prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. The norovirus, known as the “vomiting and diarrhea virus”, It is a highly contagious pathogen that causes sudden, severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Although outbreaks can occur throughout the year, their incidence increases between November and April. The virus is estimated to affect between 19 and 21 million people in the US annually. One of the most notable outbreaks in December involved at least 80 people who They got sick after eating raw oysters in a restaurant in Los Angeles. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified that the contaminated oysters came from British Columbia, Canada, and had been distributed in 14 states and the District of Columbia before being recalled. In addition to seafood, Other products recently recalled for being linked to norovirus include fresh and frozen berries, according to an FDA database. Many cases of norovirus are linked to eating raw oysters. (Photo: Eldar Emric/AP) How does norovirus spread? Norovirus is extremely contagious due to two key characteristics: its ease of transmission and its ability to survive on surfaces for days or even weeks. People can contract the virus by being in contact with infected individuals or by consuming contaminated food, water, or touching surfaces. An illustrative case from Tennessee highlights how easily the virus spreads. A member of a bridge club vomited in a parking lot after becoming ill with norovirus, and everyone present contracted the virus. Researchers later found traces of the virus on the playing cards used at the event. According to William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University, it only takes a small amount of the virus to infect someone. This ability explains why norovirus thrives in closed, crowded spaces, such as cruise ships, nursing homes, schools and daycares. Another common route of transmission is contaminated water. Untreated wastewater can introduce the virus into irrigation systems, contaminating fruits, vegetables and shellfish such as oysters and mussels, which filter large volumes of water and concentrate the virus in their flesh. How to prevent norovirus? Prevention starts with good hand hygiene. The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, or before preparing food. Although hand sanitizers are useful against many pathogens, their effectiveness against norovirus is limited due to the resistant structure of the virus. Other key measures to prevent infection are: * Cook food properly: The CDC suggests cooking shellfish, such as oysters, to an internal temperature of at least 63°C to kill the virus. Washing fresh fruits and vegetables is also essential. * Clean and disinfect surfaces: Areas used for food preparation, such as cutting boards and countertops, should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. * Avoid contact with infected people: If someone in your home is sick, limit direct contact and disinfect contaminated surfaces. Bedding and towels used by infected people should be washed with detergent on long cycles and dried at high temperatures. * Waiting to handle food: An infected person should not prepare or handle food until at least two days after symptoms disappear. This is crucial, as the virus can remain in feces for up to two weeks and still be contagious. Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea and fever are some of the characteristic symptoms of norovirus. (Photo: Shutterstock) What are the symptoms of norovirus? Symptoms of a norovirus infection They include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fever. What sets this virus apart is how quickly symptoms appear. “You feel fine and all of a sudden you have an explosive episode of vomiting,” Schaffner says. There is no antiviral treatment for norovirus. Doctors recommend resting, drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and staying isolated to avoid infecting others. Symptoms generally disappear within a few days without the need for additional treatment. Although most people recover quickly, certain groups are more vulnerable to serious complications, including young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Severe dehydration can cause fatigue, dizziness, and, in children, irritability. In severe situations, patients may require hospitalization to receive intravenous fluids. The norovirus outbreak in December is a reminder of the importance of hygiene and food safety. This “persistent bug,” as Schaffner describes it, can be challenging, but with proper preventive measures and education, it is possible to significantly reduce its spread. Stay alert, follow the recommendations of experts and take care of your health and that of others. Keep reading: * Human metapneumovirus: what it is and what experts say about whether it could become a pandemic* Respiratory infections in winter: myths, realities and tips to take care of yourself this season

Is Human Metapneumovirus the Next Pandemic Virus?

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In recent weeks, China has recorded a significant increase in cases of respiratory infections caused by human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Although health authorities have ruled out that the situation represents a global health risk like Covid-19, The increase in respiratory diseases has set off alarms, especially in the winter months. According to the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Rates of flu-like illnesses have grown in this winter of 2024, generating concern among the population and authorities. However, experts say that This is not a pandemic scenario. Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said: Diseases appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale than the previous year. In addition, authorities have denied rumors about collapsed hospitals, emphasizing the importance of maintaining basic hygiene measures. What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV)? HMPV belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. However, serological studies reveal that this virus has already been circulating among humans since 1950, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) of the United States. It is an agent that causes acute respiratory infections (ARI), with a seasonal pattern that intensifies in the cold months. “It is a virus that, in recent years, has gained greater relevance due to 2 factors: the increase in cases and the improvement of diagnostic techniques, such as PCR, which allow infections and co-infections to be identified more quickly,” explained the infectious disease doctor Roberto Debbag in statements to Infobae. The H.M.P.V. It is transmitted mainly through respiratory secretions when coughing or sneezing, as well as by contact with contaminated surfaces. like toys or doorknobs. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), Its symptoms include cough, runny nose, fever and sore throat. Although they generally resemble those of a common cold, In severe cases it can cause bronchitis, pneumonia and severe respiratory distress. For most people, HMPV does not pose a serious danger. Nevertheless, Certain groups are more vulnerable, such as children under 5 years of age, the elderly, and immunocompromised people. In these cases, the infection can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia. In India, the use of face masks was returned to prevent further infections of metapneumovirus. (Photo: EFE/EPA/JAGADEESH NV) “Metapneumovirus is well known and is the second cause of respiratory diseases in winter in Argentina,” said infectious disease specialist Ricardo Teijeiro. For his part, Debbag added: “In children under one year old, the infection can be more serious. In adults, it can cause everything from bronchitis to pneumonia, mainly affecting the lower respiratory tract.” The NIH reports that in older adults residing in care homes, morbidity and mortality associated with HMPV can reach 10%. This underscores the importance of protecting the most susceptible populations through preventive measures. The outbreak in China: a worrying situation? Despite the increase in cases in China, Experts insist it should not be compared to the Covid-19 pandemic. According to infectologist Teijeiro, it is not possible for a virus known as HMPV to cause a pandemic. “They are local epidemic outbreaks that usually appear during the respiratory virus season. These outbreaks start in Asia, move to Europe and the US, and then reach the southern hemisphere in winter,” Debbag explained. In addition, specialists highlight that the current outbreak not only involves HMPV, but also other viruses such as influenza and respiratory syncytial, which are known as coinfections. Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater Health Services in Brisbane, said the most important thing right now is to educate people about the virus to reduce its transmission. The preventive measures recommended to avoid the spread of HMPV are similar to those of other respiratory viruses. The ALA and other health organizations advise: 1) Stay home if symptoms of respiratory illness occur.2) Maintain adequate hand hygiene, washing them frequently with soap and water.3) Wear masks in public spaces if you are sick.4) Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. During the Covid-19 pandemic, these practices proved effective in reducing the transmission of various respiratory diseases. “I’m not suggesting we go back to strict Covid restrictions, but staying home and practicing good hygiene remains crucial,” Griffin said. Teijeiro agreed, highlighting that these measures are especially necessary during outbreaks, not indiscriminately. HMPV does not represent a global threat, but its ability to severely affect vulnerable groups deserves attention. The key to minimizing its impact lies in health education and prevention. Chinese authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining basic hygiene measures and rejecting misinformation, a strategy that could be replicated in other countries to prevent the spread of alarmist rumors. Keep reading: * CDC gives new recommendations for Covid-19 and flu vaccines* The fight in the WHO between rich and poor countries in order for everyone to have access to vaccines* Why Covid continues to wreak serious havoc on some people

Emma Stone Reveals New Pixie Hair Cut At 2025 Golden Globes: Photos

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Stone’s commitment to her craft has been acknowledged at the Golden Globes and Oscars, but the producer’s special moment at the 2024 Oscars was disrupted by a wardrobe malfunction. OK! previously reported Stone’s dress ripped during the ceremony. “Oh no my dress is broken. I think it happened during ‘I’m Just Ken,’” the actress, 36, began, referring to Ryan Gosling‘s iconic performance. “My voice is also a little gone. The woman on this stage — you’re all incredible. The woman in this category. Sandra (Hüller), Lily (Gladstone), Carey (Mulligan), Annette (Bening) — I share this with you, I am in awe of you. It’s an honor to do this all together.” “The other night, I was panicking, as you can kind of see, happens a lot — that maybe something like this could happen and Yorgos (Lanthimos) said to me, ‘Please take yourself out of it,’” the red-headed beauty continued. “And he was right, because it’s not about me. It’s about a team that came together to make something greater than the sum of its parts .”

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