A tragic measles outbreak has claimed the life of a child at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, marking the UK’s second child death from the disease in the last ten years. While the identity of the deceased has not been disclosed, The Mirror reports that measles played a significant role in the child’s illness, which was worsened by underlying health conditions.

Hospital authorities have not confirmed whether the child had received the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. However, public health officials continue to emphasize the high effectiveness of the vaccine — around 97% when both doses are administered — in preventing serious illness or death.

With measles cases climbing and vaccination uptake declining in Merseyside, local health officials are concerned that the virus could “spread like wildfire.” Statistics suggest that as many as 288 out of every 1,000 people in the region may be vulnerable to infection.

“We’re Deeply Concerned,” Says Alder Hey Hospital

In an open letter issued to parents, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust expressed growing concern over the surge in measles-related hospitalizations. “We are concerned about the increasing number of children and young people who are contracting measles,” the hospital said in a statement to The Daily Star. “It’s a highly contagious viral illness which can cause children to be seriously unwell, requiring hospital treatment and, in rare cases, death.”

The hospital revealed that 17 children have been treated for complications related to measles since June alone. Many of these patients include immunocompromised children already dealing with other medical conditions, making them particularly susceptible to infections.

Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, told The Mirror, “I’m extremely worried that the potential is there for measles to really grab hold in our community. My concern is the unprotected population. That’s why we’re trying to be proactive. It’s really important people understand the seriousness of this.”

Understanding Measles and Its Symptoms

Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms: high fever, runny nose, cough, sneezing, and sore, red eyes. These symptoms are often followed by a distinctive rash, which starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the body. The rash may appear red or brown on lighter skin and less visible on darker skin, according to NHS guidelines. Small white spots inside the mouth may also develop.

Although the illness usually resolves within 7 to 10 days, it can cause severe complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

The World Health Organization recommends a 95% vaccination rate to achieve herd immunity. However, falling rates of MMR vaccination in parts of the UK have compromised this protective barrier.

What To Do If You Suspect Measles

NHS guidance urges people to seek immediate medical advice if they or their child show symptoms of measles, especially if the child is under one year old, pregnant, or immunocompromised. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect exposure or experience symptoms such as persistent fever, breathing difficulties, poor feeding in infants, or reduced urination.

Infected individuals should avoid attending school, nursery, or work for at least four days after the rash appears and limit contact with vulnerable groups.

Vaccination Is the Best Defence

The MMR vaccine is typically administered in two doses — the first at around 12 months and the second at 18 months. Those who missed their childhood vaccinations can still receive the vaccine at any time. Experts continue to urge families to check their vaccination records and ensure both doses have been administered.

“We can prevent people, including children, from contracting measles through vaccination,” Alder Hey Children’s Hospital stated. “Please protect yourself and vulnerable children and young people by ensuring you are fully vaccinated.”

A Growing Global Concern: Measles in the United States

The UK’s current outbreak mirrors a troubling global trend. The United States is currently battling its worst measles outbreak in 25 years. As of mid-2025, over 1,270 cases have been confirmed — already surpassing the previous high in 2019.

Health officials across both countries are urging vigilance, stressing that measles is not just a childhood illness of the past. It remains a very real, preventable threat that can quickly spiral out of control in communities with low vaccination coverage.

Autism and President Donald Trump, at this moment goes hand in hand, as ever since Trump's administration, with the help of his handpicked Health Secretary RFK Jr. decided to conduct a study to examine the potential link between vaccines and autism. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had been told to study for the link between the two, a theory very well backed by President Trump and RFK Jr.

Up new is the recent plan to announce by the President on Monday that using Tylenol, a brand of medicine, used for reducing pain or fever, during pregnancy could increase the risk of autism. Two senior administration officials who have confirmed this news to POLITICO also said that advisory will be issued for pregnant women to only use generic acetaminophen for high fevers.

The officials have also told the media outlet that Trump may also highlight the benefit of leucovorin, which is a cancer and anemia drug as a potential therapy for people with autism.

"Autism Is Totally Out Of Control"

Not too long ago, on Friday, Trump himself said that he will soon be making a big announcement on the neurological condition. "Autism is totally out of control. I think we, maybe have a reason why," he told the reporters.

White House spokesperson Kush Desai, in a statement on Sunday said that the "announcement will make historic progress" in addressing rising autism rates. As per CDC's data, about 1 in 31 children aged 8 years has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Among them 1 in 6 children aged 3 to 17 years were diagnosed with a developmental disability, during the period study of 2009-2017. These also included attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)., blindness, and cerebral palsy.

The CDC also reported this spring that 1 in 31 American 8-year-olds was diagnosed with the condition in 2022, compared with 1 in 150 in 2000.

Why Autism? To Find The Answer Is HHS' Major Priority

Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. also promised earlier this year to have "some" answers to the question of why cases are increasing. This has been made HHS' major priority.

As per Kennedy, there are environmental factors too, though there is enough evidence to counter his argument. For him, vaccines are involved.

Read More: CDC Plans Vaccine-Autism Study Despite Scientific Consensus

Coming Back To Tylenol

Acetaminophen, sold under the brand name Tylenol, is the most widely used medication for pain and fever relief among pregnant women, who are generally advised to avoid ibuprofen (Advil) because of its link to miscarriage and birth defects.

According to a senior administration official, RFK Jr. and other top health leaders are expected to take part in an upcoming announcement. However, officials remain divided on how to address the sensitive issue of autism. Kennedy himself has expressed concern about a possible link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism but has been cautious about issuing a public warning.

The administration is simultaneously preparing a broader autism initiative. About a dozen working groups are set to investigate roughly 30 possible causes of the condition. A supporting literature review, still underway, will not be released ahead of Monday’s announcement.

Earlier this year, Kennedy pledged to identify the cause of autism by September, a timeline many researchers considered unrealistic. The National Institutes of Health, tasked with leading the effort, has already tempered expectations, saying new grant funding will launch this fall, with meaningful updates not expected until next year.

This month, The Wall Street Journal reported that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) intended to connect autism risk to Tylenol use in pregnancy, as well as to folate deficiencies in women, with leucovorin being floated as a possible therapy. But officials later confirmed that no such report currently exists, as reported by POLITICO.

Meanwhile, a review published last month in BMC Environmental Health by Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health dean Dr. Andrea Baccarelli and colleagues linked acetaminophen use to autism and urged caution. The authors recommended that pregnant women take the drug only when necessary, at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration, but stopped short of advising a complete ban.

Industry leaders are pushing back. According to The Wall Street Journal, Kirk Perry, interim CEO of Tylenol manufacturer Kenvue, privately urged Kennedy not to name Tylenol as a cause. Kenvue, spun off from Johnson & Johnson in 2023, considers Tylenol a flagship brand.

In a statement to POLITICO, a Kenvue spokesperson rejected any claims of a link. “Over a decade of rigorous research, endorsed by leading medical professionals and global health regulators, confirms there is no credible evidence connecting acetaminophen to autism,” the company said. It added that discouraging Tylenol use could leave women facing “dangerous choices” between untreated pain, which itself can harm mothers and babies, and riskier alternatives.

Major medical groups continue to support acetaminophen use in pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists maintains that there is “no clear evidence” tying appropriate use to fetal developmental problems and warns against leaving pain or fever untreated.

So far, studies on acetaminophen and autism have largely been observational, pointing to associations but not proving causation.

World Alzheimer’s Day, observed annually on September 21, once again drew global attention to the rising burden of Alzheimer’s disease and the urgent need for collective action. This year, the 2025 theme emphasizes the importance of early awareness, timely diagnosis, and stronger community support systems to help patients and families cope with the challenges of dementia.

Breaking Stigma Around Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia worldwide. It is a progressive neurological disorder that impairs memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Over time, it not only affects individuals but also places a heavy emotional and physical toll on families and caregivers.

The stigma around dementia often prevents people from seeking medical help in the early stages. Symptoms such as forgetfulness, disorientation, or difficulty handling daily tasks are too often dismissed as “normal aging.” Experts, however, warn against such assumptions.

“Alzheimer’s is not simply about age-related memory loss, it is a serious neurological condition that needs to be identified early,” noted Dr. Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, as reported in the Free Press Journal. “Recognizing these signs early allows us to intervene in time, slow down progression through therapies, and prepare caregivers to provide better support.”

By focusing on awareness and early detection, this year’s campaign aims to reduce stigma and empower families to act before the disease advances.

The Global Burden of Alzheimer’s

More than 55 million people worldwide currently live with dementia, and the number is projected to rise sharply with aging populations. In India and other developing countries, cases are steadily increasing, adding to public health challenges.

Alzheimer’s is not only a medical condition but also a social issue, as it disrupts family structures and places immense demands on caregivers. Recognizing this, World Alzheimer’s Day encourages governments, organizations, and communities to work together to improve patient care, caregiver support, and social acceptance.

Origin and History of World Alzheimer’s Day

The first World Alzheimer’s Day was launched on September 21, 1994 by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), a federation of Alzheimer associations across the globe. It was timed to mark the 10th anniversary of the organization.

Over the years, the campaign grew in scale and visibility. In 2012, ADI expanded the initiative into World Alzheimer’s Month, transforming September into a full month of awareness activities. Since then, the annual campaigns have included educational seminars, fundraising walks, memory cafés, and advocacy programs.

These initiatives not only increase understanding of dementia but also provide platforms for patients and caregivers to share experiences and seek community support.

Why World Alzheimer’s Day Matters

World Alzheimer’s Day is not just about raising awareness but also about inspiring collective action. The day underlines several critical areas:

Early diagnosis: Detecting Alzheimer’s in its initial stages improves chances of slowing progression through therapies and lifestyle interventions.

Access to care: Patients need medical, social, and emotional support systems to live with dignity.

Reducing stigma: Myths and misconceptions must be challenged to encourage acceptance and compassion.

Research and innovation: Ongoing scientific research is essential to find better treatments and, eventually, a cure.

Around the world, communities organize activities such as memory walks, caregiver workshops, and awareness drives. These efforts encourage societies to become more dementia-friendly, ensuring patients and families do not feel isolated.

Moving Forward With Hope

As the global population ages, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will continue to challenge healthcare systems, families, and communities. World Alzheimer’s Day 2025 serves as a reminder that awareness, compassion, and timely intervention are powerful tools in easing this burden.

By breaking stigma, encouraging early diagnosis, and strengthening support networks, societies can not only improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer’s but also bring hope to millions of families navigating its challenges.

NHL and Buffalo Sabres star Rasmus Dahlin revealed in an open letter to hockey fans that his fiancée Carolina Matovac received a heart transplant. He noted that while the couple went to France on a vacation early this summer, she experienced a "major heart failure".

In the open letter, the Sabres captain detailed the traumatic experience. The team shared the letter on Friday. As per Dahlin, Matovac had been feeling ill for several days, which led to her experiencing "major heart failure".

He wrote: "Fortunately, she received CPR on multiple occasions, and up to a couple of hours at a time to keep her alive, which ultimately saved her life. Without her receiving lifesaving CPR, the result would have been unimaginable. It is hard to even think about the worst-case scenario."

As a result, Matovac also remained on life support for weeks before she received the transplant in France. He also wrote: "Without the incredible commitment, expertise, care, and sensitivity of all the people who treated Carolina, we would not be in the position that we are in today, with Carolina recovering well and on the path to a full recovery."

In his letter, he also thanked Matovac's medical team, the NHL and NHLPA, and the Pegula family for their support. He said that through his letter he hopes to remind others to "appreciate our experiences, the people closest to us, and the importance of fully living each day."

Update On Matovac's Health Now

He wrote that Carolina is still "working through her rehab to return to be with me in Buffalo, she has demonstrated an incredible determination, spirit, positivity, and resilience that I am in awe of." He called this the most challenging chapter of their lives, however, also noted that both have also learned a lot from this. He wrote: "We will continue to grow from these experiences and are so grateful for all the love and support we have received. We are truly blessed in so many ways and fully realize how fortunate we are."

What Is A Heart Failure?

Doctors reveal that unlike an actual heart attack, heart failure can happen gradually. This is also the reason why many people mistake the symptoms to be something else, like indigestion or being out of shape. Robert Greenfield, MD, cardiologist, and medical director of non-invasive cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation at MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, tells Prevention, that "the longer you go without seeing these as signs of heart trouble, the more damage you may have over time.”

What actually happens in a heart failure is that your heart becomes unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's need. In the US, it happens to approximately 6.5 million adults in a year, and is the leading cause of hospital admissions and readmissions among older adults, accounting for an estimated 1 million hospitalizations annually, notes Naddi Marah, MD., FACC, FSCAI, interventional and structural cardiologist with Memorial Hermann Health System.

What Happens In A Heart Transplant?

A heart transplant replaces a falling heart with a healthy donor heart through complex open-chest surgery, lasting several hours. The recipient is placed under general anesthesia, connected to a heart-lung bypass machine, and their diseased heart is removed, while the donor heart is carefully sewn in the place, and blood vessels are attached so the heart begins to beat. Afterward, the patient is connected to mechanical ventilation, drainage tubes are inserted, and they receive immunosuppressant drugs to prevent rejection of the new organ.