A new study published by researchers from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) this week has found that using tap water to perform a nasal rinse increases the risk of contracting a rare but serious set of infections. In particular, the CDC reports that a type of amoeba known as acanthamoeba, can cause a range of symptoms and has a fatality rate of 82%. This infection is rare and is thought to only involve 3-12 people in the US each year.

Years ago, you’d hear “public health,” and more than likely, you’d shrug. Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. No one ignores it now. And the virus remains, people are still getting sick from it and experiencing long-term effects. But what’s its lethality today, has it weakened? Should we keep getting vaccinations?

The infectious diseases defining Nevada’s public health landscape, and the simple solution that eludes officials

We’re in the heart of the holiday season, people are going on vacation. They’re gathering with friends in homes, bars, restaurants; maybe seeing shows in crowded Strip venues. It really is a time for fun and relaxation. And, unfortunately, it’s also a time for something we don’t want to think about after three years of COVID-19: disease. But the reality is, Nevada does seem to be something of a hotbed for communicable disease and infections.

The virus is most prevalent in semi-tropical and tropical areas, such as Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Tropical diseases could spread more widely in the U.S. as the climate changes.

Those dealing with cold and flu season are not alone this time of year. Experts describe the fall season as the prime time to see several respiratory illnesses going around.

A new study found that many hand sanitizer dispenser systems either dispense too much or too little sanitizer to be fully effective.

The CDC found a parasite called Angiostrongylus cantonensis (A. cantonensis) in brown rats from Atlanta. Humans can get infected by consuming snails or other foods that have picked up rat droppings.