News roundup for Tue, Jun 28, 2022

In a nutshell
  • A deadly meningococcal outbreak is spreading in Florida.
  • The Louisiana insurance market is on the verge of collapse, leaving thousands without coverage before hurricane season.
  • The Rio Grande is expected to dry up completely as far as Albuquerque this summer.
Deadly meningococcal outbreak in Florida

This outbreak has primarily affected:

  • Men who have sex with men, especially those living in or visiting Florida
  • College students in Leon County, Florida
  • Over 40 confirmed infections and 12 deaths so far

Meningococcal disease often starts like the flu but can rapidly progress into something life-threatening. It can cause meningitis, an infection of the brain and spinal cord lining, and septicemia, a severe bloodstream infection — both of which can be fatal if not treated quickly.

The CDC is urging at-risk individuals to get vaccinated: MenACWY for men and MenB for college students.

Common symptoms of meningococcal meningitis include:

  • Fever
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck

Additional signs may also appear:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Confusion or altered mental state

For meningococcemia (bloodstream infection), symptoms may include:

  • Fever and chills
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Severe body aches
  • Rapid breathing
  • Diarrhea
  • In advanced stages, a dark purple rash

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Early treatment is critical.

Monkeypox cases are rising globally, but general public risk remains low

More than 4,000 monkeypox cases have been reported across 47 countries, with one death recorded outside endemic regions. The majority of cases are still among men who have sex with men, though community transmission is increasing. Large gatherings, such as festivals, could pose a higher risk.

Interestingly, many current cases don’t show the classic symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, or a full-body rash. Instead, they may present with fewer lesions, localized rashes, or symptoms that appear out of order. Some cases even show lesions before other signs like fever or fatigue.

There’s evidence that the virus can spread through semen and vaginal fluids, though more research is needed. Using condoms is recommended. For the general public, the risk remains low, but precautions like handwashing, social distancing, and mask-wearing (especially in crowded areas) are still advised.

The WHO has not declared this a global health emergency, but it's urging strong response efforts. They will reevaluate the situation in the coming weeks. As one official said: “This is a serious, evolving threat.”

Some experts believe the number of cases in the U.S. may be underreported due to limited testing. There’s also speculation that a new mutation might be making the virus more contagious.

Covid variants BA.4/5 are now dominant, and kids under 5 can finally get vaccinated

The Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 are expected to become the dominant strains in the U.S. within a few weeks. These variants are better at evading immunity from prior infections and vaccines, although recent boosters offer some protection.

Pfizer and Moderna have updated their boosters to target the Omicron lineage, but they’re less effective against BA.4 and BA.5 compared to earlier subtypes. This means that while protection is improved, it’s not as strong as before.

Now, children under 5 can finally receive the vaccine. This is a major development, though misinformation is already spreading. Parents should rely on trusted sources for accurate information.

A new study published in *The Lancet* found that long Covid affects children of all ages, including infants. Symptoms vary by age, with younger kids showing mood swings, rashes, and stomach issues, while older children struggle with memory, concentration, and fatigue. Younger children seem to be most affected.

Additionally, blind and visually impaired individuals can now order free, specially designed home test kits. These require a smartphone with Bluetooth and a specific app to use.

The CDC also launched an Interactive School Ventilation Tool to help schools improve air quality. You can also build your own DIY air purifier using tips from community members.

If you're still interested in reading about the latest developments, here are a few recent articles worth checking out:

Stay informed, stay safe, and keep an eye on the updates. The situation continues to evolve rapidly.

Ungrouped

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