Florida health department has issued a warning for people against raw milk after 21 people got sick due to it, including six children, got sick from E. coli and campylobacter bacteria. The illnesses were all linked to raw milk from a single farm.

Of those infected, seven people have also been hospitalized. The health department raised serious concerns about the farm's sanitation practices, stating, "Sanitation practices in this farm are of particular concern due to the number of cases." The dangerous bacteria, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, can lead to severe complications such as kidney failure, especially in children.

The US has seen an increase in the amount of people who are choosing to drink raw milk. People on social media are also encouraging others to drink unpasteurized milk and go for the ‘healthy’ and ‘all-natural’ beverage. However, drinking raw milk is a big cause of health concern. According to a 2023 survey published in the Journal of food protection, 4.4% of US adults report drinking raw milk at least once in the past year. How did this trend come to be? And why are people discouraged from drinking raw milk?

Rise Of Raw Milk Consumption In US

The survey revealed that raw milk is popular among those who prefer "unprocessed" foods, its consumption is still relatively low in the U.S. About 4.4% of U.S. adults (around 10.7 million people) reported drinking raw milk at least once in the past year. The study also found that most of these drinkers (62%) only drink it occasionally, less than once a month. The people most likely to drink raw milk are:

• Young adults (ages 18-35)
• People who live in rural areas
• Residents of states where raw milk can be legally sold in stores
• People living in the Northeast

Interestingly, the study found that frequent raw milk drinkers tended to have less education, while those who drank it occasionally were more likely to be college graduates.

Common Myths That Aid To The Popularity of Raw Milk Debunked

The FDA warns that raw milk can contain many types of germs that cause serious diseases. Scientific studies and many reported outbreaks have proven the risks of drinking raw milk. The process of pasteurization, which heats milk, effectively kills these germs without changing the milk's nutritional value.

Myth 1: Raw milk cures lactose intolerance.

This is false. All milk, whether raw or pasteurized, contains lactose. People who are lactose intolerant lack an enzyme called lactase to properly digest lactose. There is no lactase in raw milk itself. While some fermented products like yogurt can help because they contain specific bacteria that produce lactase, raw milk does not have the same bacteria in the same amounts.

Myth 2: Raw milk prevents asthma and allergies.

This is a misunderstanding of a well-known study. One study found that children who drank "farm milk" had lower rates of asthma and allergies, but it did not say the milk was raw. In fact, about half of the milk in that study was boiled. The researchers themselves warned against drinking raw milk as a preventive measure because of the risk of dangerous germs.

Myth 3: Raw milk prevents osteoporosis and is better for bones.

There is no scientific proof that raw milk is better for your bones than pasteurized milk. Studies show that pasteurization does not change the amount of calcium in milk or how well your body can absorb it. In fact, research on both animals and humans found no difference in calcium absorption between those who drank raw milk and those who drank pasteurized milk.

Myth 4: Raw milk contains good bacteria for your gut.

This is incorrect. The bacteria found in raw milk are not beneficial probiotics. Instead, they often come from unsanitary conditions, such as manure or a cow's infected udder. The presence of these bacteria often signals poor hygiene at the farm. Probiotics must be specific, non-harmful bacteria that can help human health. The bacteria in raw milk, such as E. coli and Salmonella, are known to cause disease.

Myth 5: Raw milk boosts your immune system.

Raw milk is actually not safe for the immune system, especially for children. It is much more likely to make them sick. There have been many documented outbreaks of serious illnesses like E. coli infections in children who drank raw milk.

While raw milk does contain proteins called immunoglobulins, which help fight disease, they are found in very small amounts. These levels are so low they have no real effect on the human body.

Myth 6: Raw milk is easier to digest.

This is also false. Raw milk does not contain special enzymes that help you digest it better. The enzymes found in milk, like proteases and lipases, are not for human digestion and are mostly destroyed by the stomach's acid. Your body has its own enzymes to digest milk proteins and fats, and these work the same whether the milk is raw or pasteurized.

Myth 7: Raw milk is more nutritious.

Pasteurization has almost no impact on the nutritional value of milk. The levels of protein, fat, and minerals like calcium are the same in both raw and pasteurized milk. While some vitamins can be slightly affected by heat, the main vitamins in milk (like B vitamins) are very stable. The small amount of vitamin C in milk might be reduced, but milk is not a significant source of vitamin C to begin with.

In today’s fitness-obsessed world, being in good shape is often equated with being healthy. But that assumption is increasingly being challenged. You might clock your daily steps, hit the gym, and look lean in the mirror, yet your body may still be signalling distress from the inside. And the problem usually lies in the gut.

The growing evidence shows how a well-sculpted exterior does not always reflect internal well-being. Fitness is not enough to ensure health. The gut microbiome may be the silent disruptor behind many metabolic issues, even in those who appear outwardly fit.

In fact, a review by the Indian Council of Medical Research found that more than 71 per cent of Indian adults are metabolically unhealthy despite looking lean. This startling figure highlights a crucial gap in our understanding of what it really means to be healthy.

What Does “Fit but Not Healthy” Mean? Expert Explains

“Even top-level athletes can develop overtraining syndrome,” Dr. Dhar explains, describing this as a condition marked by systemic inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and metabolic dysfunction. And at the heart of it, he notes, is often a disrupted gut microbiome.

He warns that a dysfunctional gut flora does not just impact digestion; it can lead to inflammation, reduce insulin sensitivity, interfere with lipid metabolism, and elevate the risk of chronic conditions. “Even world-class athletes are not immune,” he adds.

The Gut-Fitness Connection

But, he cautions, “Overtraining or intense workout regimens can backfire.” When pushed too far, physical activity can damage the gut lining, increase inflammation, and throw off microbial balance, a state known as dysbiosis.

“So, while exercise is crucial, it has to be done in a way that complements gut health,” he advises.

Gut Microbiome Plays A Crucial Role

“When this balance is disturbed, we see the emergence of conditions like chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and even obesity,” he says. This microbial imbalance often remains hidden, as most people rely on weight or BMI as their main health markers.

He points out how even something seemingly harmless, like eating a few cookies a day, can slowly tip the scales of gut balance and trigger low-grade inflammation. “This kind of hidden obesity often flies under the radar,” says Dr. Dhar.

Moving Toward True Health

• Focus on dietary diversity: Eating a wide variety of plant-based foods supports microbial diversity and resilience.
• Include prebiotics and probiotics: He recommends incorporating fermented foods and fibre-rich legumes, noting their benefits for mood, weight, and metabolic health.
• Balance exercise intensity: Moderate exercise enhances gut health, but too much intensity can be harmful.
• Monitor metabolic health: He urges people not to rely solely on weigh-ins. Regular metabolic screenings and, where possible, microbiome testing can uncover hidden health risks early.

Being in shape is not a guarantee of being healthy. Without good gut health, even disciplined exercise and a lean appearance can mask deeper problems like inflammation or insulin resistance. Dr. Dhar calls the gut our “second brain” and insists it deserves more attention than it typically receives. It is time to stop obsessing over what we see in the mirror and start listening to the internal cues.

True health, he concludes, lies in nurturing the gut through balanced movement, diverse diets, quality sleep, and stress management.

China Chikungunya Virus: More than 7,000 cases of Chikungunya have been reported from China's Foshan, confirmed the government report. The Chinese authorities, as a result, have taken measures to curb the spread of chikungunya, a virus known for causing fever and joint pain. The Health and Me has reported on the methods, including the use of biological weapons as the different breed of mosquitoes, namely, the elephant mosquitoes to combat the larvae carrying the chikungunya virus. Other health measures like tests, complying by the government orders, and fines if not, have been taken too, which has resulted it into being called the 'COVID-era' measure.

How Did China Combat COVID-19?

A 2022 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, notes that during the COVID-19 pandemic, criminal acts that seriously violated pandemic prevention and control provisions were subjected to criminal punishment.

For instance, acts casing the spread of coronavirus, or posing a serious risk of spreading would constitute as a crime under the Article 330 of the Criminal Law of the People's Republic of China.

If one obstructs the state functionaries from carrying out pandemic investigation to the law by means of violence or threat would be considered a crime under Article 277.

Driving up prices or seeking exorbitant profits or making illegal income would be considered a crime under Article 225.

For those who spread false information online would also be considered criminals under the Article 291.

Chinese courts have tried criminal cases involving pandemic prevention and control in accordance with the law, punished criminal acts that harmed the public interest and the quality of health and life, and demonstrated the important role of judicial bodies in ensuring the quality of public health and life.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to control the situation and ensure public order, Chinese government departments at all levels gained more administrative law enforcement authority, notes the study.

ALSO READ: Mosquitoes Deployed To Kill Virus-Carrying Mosquito Larvae: How China Is Using Biological Weapons To Wage War Against Chikungunya

How Has China 'Revived' Covid-Era Measures For Chikungunya Outbreak?

Foshan has asked pharmacies to report identities of people who buy any of the 47 drugs to relieve chikungunya symptoms such as fever, rash, and join pain. The notice was issued by the city's Market Supervision Bureau. This is a similar policy adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, where pharmacies would trigger a pop-up on an individual's health code, for the government to track. This will also limit their movement and subject them for a mandatory test.

Like COVID-19 measures, a campaign for disinfecting areas has been launched in Foshan, for seven days, which will also include community mobilization to clear stagnant water and promoting use of window screens and mosquito nets.

In pandemic, those who failed to comply by the government rules were expected to submit a fine, or were punished. In a similar manner, hotels, restaurants and companies that failed to clean up stagnant water would face a fine up to 1,000 yuan, which is roughly $139. As per an illustrated government explainer, those who do not cooperate could be fined, or face criminal charges for "obstructing the prevention of infectious diseases". In fact, five households had their electricity cut for not cooperating.

Travellers directories are also being maintained, especially of those who have symptoms such as fever, headache, and joint pain.

ALSO READ: US Weighs China Travel Warning As Chikungunya Cases Near 5,000: Report

What Is Chikungunya?

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness that causes fever and intense joint pain, often leaving patients debilitated for days or even weeks. Though it shares symptoms with dengue and Zika, chikungunya is a distinct disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These mosquitoes bite mostly during daylight and breed in stagnant water.

Global Distribution and Outbreaks

CHIKV was first identified in Tanzania in 1952, notes WHO. Initially seen in Africa and Asia, the virus has since spread rapidly. Since 2004, it has caused outbreaks in over 110 countries, including those in the Americas and Europe. The increase in cases is partly due to viral mutations that make it easier for Aedes albopictus to transmit the virus, and partly due to the virus entering populations with no prior immunity. In places where most of the population gets infected and recovers, transmission often slows down. However, in regions with low infection rates, the virus continues to circulate.

How It Spreads

CHIKV spreads through the bite of an infected female mosquito. When a mosquito bites a person who has the virus in their bloodstream, the virus replicates in the mosquito and gets passed on when it bites someone else. The cycle continues as long as mosquitoes and infected humans are present in the same environment.

Symptoms and Risks

Symptoms usually appear 4–8 days after being bitten. The illness begins with sudden fever and severe joint pain, especially in the hands and feet, which may last from days to months. Other symptoms include muscle pain, fatigue, rash, nausea, and headache. Because these overlap with dengue and Zika, misdiagnosis is common.

While most patients recover fully, some develop eye, heart, or neurological complications. Infants and older adults, especially those with existing health conditions, are more prone to severe illness and may need hospitalization. Thankfully, fatalities are rare. Once recovered, individuals are believed to have lifelong immunity.

ALSO READ: Medical Memoir: How Chikungunya, A Tanzinian Virus Affected Millions Throughout The World

Diagnosis and Treatment

CHIKV can be confirmed using RT-PCR tests in the first week of illness. Antibody tests can also detect past infections within the first two months after symptoms begin. There is no specific antiviral treatment. Supportive care includes paracetamol for pain and fever, rest, and plenty of fluids. NSAIDs should be avoided until dengue is ruled out, due to bleeding risks.

Vaccines and Prevention

Two vaccines have received regulatory approvals in some countries but are not yet in widespread use. WHO is reviewing data to decide on future vaccine recommendations. Until then, the best protection is prevention.

Key steps include:

• Eliminating mosquito breeding sites by emptying water containers weekly
• Wearing long clothing
• Using window screens and insect repellents containing DEET, IR3535 or icaridin
• Using insecticide-treated nets, especially for those sleeping during the day
• Avoiding mosquito bites during the first week of illness to stop further spread

The first period is a significant moment in the life of a young girl, however, when it happens, the age, plays a much more important role than we realize. National Health Services UK explains that periods can start as early as 8, however the average age is about 12.

A new study showcased in the ENDO Annual Meeting 2025, Endocrine Society from Brazil has found that the age a woman gets her first period, also known as menarche, could provide important clues about her future health. The study shows that both starting your period very early or very late can lead to different health problems later in life.

Different Risks for Different Ages

The age a woman gets her first period (menarche) and the age she reaches menopause mark the beginning and end of her reproductive life. The study looked at data from over 7,600 women in Brazil. It found a link between the timing of menarche and long-term health risks.

Early Menarche

Women who got their first period before age 10 were more likely to have health issues like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems. They also had a higher risk of reproductive issues like pre-eclampsia.

Late Menarche

Women who started their period after age 15 were less likely to be obese. However, they faced a greater risk of menstrual problems and some specific heart conditions.

What This Means for Women's Health

According to the study's author, Flávia Rezende Tinano, these findings confirm how the timing of puberty can affect a woman's health over many years. She explains that knowing when a woman had her first period can help doctors identify those who might be at a higher risk for certain diseases. This information can lead to more personalized health screenings and preventative care.

The study is one of the largest of its kind in a developing country. It provides valuable data for populations, like those in Latin America, that have been underrepresented in past research. The researchers believe that these findings highlight the need for early health education for young girls and women.

How Timing Reveals Health Risks For Women

A 2013 study published in the Adolescent Health Medicine and Therapeutics journal explained that the timing of these key events can provide important clues about her long-term health. Both very early and very late timing of menarche or menopause have been linked to a higher risk of health problems. Because of this, understanding the connection between these two events could help with preventing chronic diseases. Scientific studies from various fields, including biology, nutrition, and psychology, have looked at the relationship between menarche and menopause.

Early or Late Timing Matters: A woman's age at menarche and menopause is a key sign of her body's aging and how her ovaries are functioning.

Health Connections: Both starting periods very early or very late are linked to different health and social risks later in life.

While many studies have explored the link between menarche and menopause, the results have been mixed. Out of 36 studies reviewed, ten found a direct link, meaning an earlier first period was connected to an earlier menopause. Two studies found the opposite, and the rest found no connection at all. Researchers believe that many things affect the timing of these events, including:

• Hormones and environment
• Socioeconomic status
• Stress throughout life
• Body size and height