Articles related to PUBLIC HEALTH

Monkeypox is again spreading around the world, from Europe to North America. This is the first outbreak in US the since 2003 and the disease is now spreading fairly rapidly on a daily basis. Transmission between people mostly occurs through large respiratory droplets, normally meaning prolonged contact face to face. But the virus can also spread through bodily fluids. The latest cases have mainly been among men who have sex with men. Currently, the UK has the largest number of diagnosed cases, followed by Portugal, Canada, and Spain. Latest case counts by country can be seen here.

Researchers explain why the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is so contagious and spreads so rapidly in the general population.

A study published in Nature makes the case that even mild COVID-19 can lead to long-term changes in the human brain. Researchers at Oxford University reported that several months after study participants had COVID-19, they had more gray matter loss and tissue abnormalities, mainly in the areas of the brain associated with smell, and more brain size shrinkage than participants who hadn’t been infected with the virus.

The FDA has withdrawn its authorization for use of the monoclonal antibody sotrovimab in the treatment of COVID-19 in regions with a high frequency of the Omicron BA.2 subvariant. Data show that the authorized dose of the monoclonal antibody — 500 mg — is unlikely to be effective against the BA.2 COVID-19 subvariant.

Many patients have devoted time and effort to learning about their diagnosis and have engaged (or want to) in a collaborative relationship that benefits their care. This represents a shift from the more traditional health care paradigm, where the doctor is the primary content expert providing education and recommendations. To engage with expert patients, clinicians must acknowledge their existence as experts on their own diseases and that they can be a valuable resource and want to become more deeply involved.

A special tribute to Dr. John Cox, a Professor at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and a practicing medical oncologist for more than 25 years in Dallas, Texas. He remains committed to transforming cancer care and enhancing the quality of patient care.