The Washington State Department of Health, along with the University of Washington, identified the virus in wastewater samples on September 24, 2025. Following this, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department began working closely with the CDC and state officials to expand testing. So far, no human cases have been reported in Pierce County, though six travel-related cases have been confirmed in other parts of the country.

How Does Mpox Spread?

Mpox can spread to humans either from animals or through direct human-to-human contact. There are two main types: Clade 1, which is more severe and linked to higher death rates, and Clade 2, which is typically milder. While Clade 2 circulates mostly in West Africa, Clade 1 is common in Central Africa.

Transmission of Mpox can occur through:

• Direct contact with rashes, scabs, or body fluids of an infected person
• Close physical interactions, including intimate or sexual contact
• Sharing contaminated items such as bedding, clothing, or towels
• Contact with infected animals through bites, scratches, or exposure to their fluids and waste

Common Symptoms of Mpox

According to the World Health Organization, the symptoms often begin with fever, body aches, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue. Within a few days, a rash typically develops, which might start from your face before spreading to other areas, including the genitals and mouth. The rash may look like blisters, spots, or ulcers, sometimes numbering in the thousands.

How High Is the Risk Of Catching A Mpox Virus?

At present, experts believe the risk of widespread infection remains low. Mpox does not spread as easily as viruses like influenza or COVID-19. Close, prolonged contact with a symptomatic individual is usually required for transmission. While Clade 1 may have a higher potential for spread and severity, there is limited evidence so far on its transmissibility in community settings outside Africa.

Is There A Mpox Vaccine?

Yes, vaccines are available that can help prevent mpox and lessen the severity of symptoms. Each vaccine works a little differently, and who can receive them also varies.

The main vaccines in use are:

• MVA-BN (also called Imvamune, Imvanex, or Jynneos): This is usually given as a shot under the skin. In some cases, it may be given just between the skin layers, which allows a smaller “fractional dose” to be used while still being effective, as per World Health Organnization.
• LC16m8 (also known as LC16-KMB): This is given using a special bifurcated needle that lightly pricks the skin several times, delivering the vaccine just beneath the surface.

Both of these vaccines contain a weakened form of the vaccinia virus, which is related to smallpox. The weakened virus triggers the immune system to build protection against mpox.

In addition, according to World Health Organization, there is also ACAM2000, a vaccine currently licensed in the United States for mpox prevention. However, because it may cause side effects in certain people, its use is limited.

The finding of Clade 1 mpox in wastewater highlights why continued monitoring is so important. For now, health officials stress that awareness and precautions, especially avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms remain the best protection.

The world first learned about Selma Blair’s multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis nearly seven years ago, but the chronic autoimmune condition has affected her for much of her life. The 52-year-old “Cruel Intentions” star traces early signs of the disease back to her childhood, though she says doctors ignored the warning signs for decades. As Blair shares her journey with MS, we explain what the condition is, its symptoms, and how it can impact the body.

Selma Blair Opens Up on Her Multiple Sclerosis Journey

She first publicly revealed her diagnosis in 2018, later telling The Guardian that her doctors had advised her to keep it private to avoid losing work. During her first pregnancy, she felt unusually well, unaware that MS can enter remission, masking her symptoms. After giving birth, her symptoms returned, initially being mistaken for post-partum depression. An MRI, her first after years of asking, finally confirmed the diagnosis.

On the show, Blair reflected on how the experience has changed her, noting that while an MS diagnosis is daunting, it also offers opportunities to learn more about oneself. She urges anyone noticing similar symptoms to consult a doctor, as early detection can make a significant difference.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a condition in which the protective covering around nerve fibers, called myelin, is damaged. This breakdown interferes with communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The disease can lead to numbness, weakness, vision changes, and difficulty walking, among other symptoms. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, eventually causing lasting damage to the nerves.

How Multiple Sclerosis Affects the Body

MS affects the body by triggering the immune system to attack the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. When myelin is damaged, a process called demyelination, in which nerve signals are disrupted, leads to a wide range of possible symptoms, including vision issues, numbness, muscle weakness, balance problems, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Symptoms can vary greatly between individuals and may change over time, making MS unpredictable.

Life with MS can be challenging, but early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Anyone experiencing similar warning signs should speak with a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Novo Nordisk is all set to launch Ozempic, a popular drug for diabetes and weight loss, administered through a shot, in India. As per the Diabetes Organization, UK, it semaglutide, sold under the brand name of Ozempic, which belongs to a group of drugs called the GLP-1 agonists, also the GLP-1 analogues, GLP-1 RAs, and incretin mimetics.

It treats type 2 diabetes, which can help you manage your blood sugar levels.

How Does Ozempic Work?

Ozempic increases the levels of incretins, which are hormones naturally produced in the stomach when you eat. This then helps your body to produce more insulin when needed and reducing the amount of glucose or sugar produced by the liver. The drug is also known for slowing down how quickly food is digested and thus helps in maintaining a lower blood sugar level and HbA1c.

How To Administer Ozempic?

The main question is, how must one take Ozempic? As per the Diabetes Organization, UK, you take this once a week. Your healthcare team will also give you instruction on how to inject it.

The Diabetes Organization, UK, also notes that those above the age of 18 with type 2 diabetes can take Ozempic.

Vikrant Shrotiya, who is the India Head of the Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk told India Today, "“With the highly anticipated launch expected soon, Novo Nordisk will now complete its semaglutide portfolio in India, providing a range of treatments to address diverse patient needs— oral semaglutide for diabetes, advanced obesity management through Injectable.”

Read: How To Identify A Counterfeit Ozempic? Look For These Signs

Why Does India Need Ozempic?

"India is the diabetic capital," said Dr Hitendra Mehta, Head, Clinical Services, at Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital in Tardeo at a conference on how diabetes impacts vision loss.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), in India, there are around 77 million people above the age of 18 who are suffering from type 2 and nearly 25 million prediabetics patients. More than 50% of people are unaware of their diabetic status which leads to health complications if not detected and treated early.

WHO also notes that diabetic retinopathy is an important cause of blindness and occurs as a result of long-term accumulated damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Diabetes is among the leading causes of kidney failure too. This is why, the India head has called this launch a "much-needed move", as the India Today reported.

Is Ozempic Safe To Use?

Ozempic is generally considered safe for people with type 2 diabetes or obesity when prescribed and closely monitored by a healthcare professional. However, there have been studies that do point out that it is not suitable for everyone.

People with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), or serious kidney or liver problems should avoid it, the Ozempic website mentions.

Read: Is Ozempic Really Safe? Health Canada Logs Nearly 12,000 Side Secondary Effect Cases

Who Else Are Advised Against It: Pregnant or mothers who are breastfeeding are also advised against its use, as safety data remains limited.

The patients who are advised to consume the drug, Ozempic can provide major benefits, including improved blood sugar control, reduced cardiovascular risk, and significant weight loss.

What Are The Side Effects?

Read: Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic, Mounjaro And Wegovy Under Scrutiny After Deaths And Pancreatitis Reports in UK

The side effects could range from nausea and fatigue to rare but serious complications such as pancreatitis or gallbladder issues should be carefully monitored during treatment.

Zack Grossi, the pass game specialist for the football team Denver Broncos, who was diagnosed with yolk sac tumor has returned to his position on the sidelines, and has been cancer free. The team now, is making their mark on NFL's Crucial Catch initiative by being the first time to extend support for all cancers.

The owner of the team and Foundation Board Chair Carrie Walton Penner, along with the Bronco organization is now taking its cancer-fighting efforts one step further. On Monday night's "Fight Like a Bronco" game against the Bengals, the team will be unveiling a special cancer bell at the Empower Field at Mil High. This bell would be a symbol for patients to ring once they are declared cancer free.

The bell was built and designed by the students from Eaglecrest High School and the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus(CCIC). Th bell will be making its debut during a pregame reception hosted by Penner.

The event will honor the survivors as well as their caregivers before the kickoff. The bell will also travel to hospitals across Denver metro area throughout the month of October.

“Built with care by the amazing Eaglecrest High School students at the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus, the ‘Fight Like a Bronco’ bell is a unique way to celebrate every victory in the fight against cancer,” said Allie Engelken, the Broncos’ vice president of community impact.

The reception day will also have survivors and caregivers take part in the national anthem and hold the Colorado flag in the field.

With Coach Grossi's return and being declared as cancer-free, his name will also appear on the 'Fight Like a Bronco' flag, which will be carried by a Mascot.

It was in 2015, that the team first launched its cancer-inclusive imitative 'Fight Like a Bronco'. This was inspired by former assistant turf manager Luke Kellerman, who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Kellerman passed away in 2017 at the age of 34.

Ever since, Broncos have expanded their initiative to promote prevention, screenings, and support for all cancer patients. It has become the first NFL team to broaden its focus on cancer in this way.

The Cancer That The Broncos Coach Had

Grossi was diagnosed with a yolk sac tumor, which is also known as an endodermal sinus tumor. It is a malignant cancer that starts in germ cells, which are immature cells that develop into sperm or eggs. Although they most commonly occur in the gonads (testicles or ovaries), they can also appear in other parts of the body, such as the brain, chest, or abdomen. Yolk sac tumors are aggressive and require treatment, but early diagnosis offers a good chance of a cure.

Grossi was diagnosed with this condition in 2024 and underwent his treatment at the University of Colorado Cancer Center. “Once I got the treatment plan, it became a very clear opponent,” he says. “It was fourth-and-1 every day.”

Symptoms Grossi Experienced before his cancer diagnosis:

• Unexpected weight gain despite working out
• Shortness of breath / getting winded easily
• Difficulty sleeping, even when extremely tired
• Noticeable heartbeat when pressing on the left side of rib cage
• Persistent, deep, body-racking cough
• Overall fatigue and feeling unwell