Health and Me

Ishita Roy

July 4th Firework Accidents Are Common—Here’s How to Stay Safe

<span>Fourth of July</span> is here, and while it is a day of celebration, most commonly with fireworks, the same is also the reason why many end up in the emergency room or in the ER. 

As HealthDay reports, on an average, around 250 people a day end up in the ER with fireworks-related injuries in the month before and also after Independence Day. More than 75% of these injuries are around the head, neck, arms, and hands, notes the American Academy of Facial Plastic &amp; Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). 

Dr Patrick Byrne, who is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and president of AAFPRS says, and is as reported by HealthDay, "These injuries can include burns, eye trauma and hearing or vision issues, and in some cases, disfigurement."

In a news release, he added that treatments to these burns often require multidisciplinary approach. 

<h4>Prevention Is Always Better Than Cure</h4>

Staying safe during firework displays is easier than you think—just follow a few key precautions:

To begin with, it’s safest to enjoy fireworks at professional shows rather than setting off your own. Experts strongly recommend leaving the light show to trained professionals.

If you do use fireworks at home, never allow children near them—even sparklers can reach temperatures close to 2,000°F and cause serious burns.

Avoid touching or re-lighting fireworks that don’t go off (known as “duds”). Instead, wait at least 20 minutes, then soak them in water before safely disposing of them.

Always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire or malfunction.

If you’re lighting firecrackers yourself, do so one at a time, and step away quickly after ignition.

<h4>Fourth of July: A Day Of Celebration And Busiest ER Day</h4>

As per the Pew Research Center, more than 45,000 people visit the ER on <span>July 4</span> and 5, each year. This is the highest number of daily medical emergency. 

The New York Post reports and quotes Dr Ryan Marino, MD., an ER doctor and associate professor at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, "his time of year, we see big increases in traumatic injuries and heat-related illness."

Dr Ryan also adds, "While fireworks accidents and injuries get most of the attention, there are far more falls, broken bones, head injuries and car accidents, just to name a few.”

Dr. Robert Biernbaum, an emergency medicine physician in Fairport, New York told the Fox News Digital, "We routinely see a sharp spike in preventable injuries and medical emergencies."

<h4>Most Common Injuries On July 4th</h4>

Dr Biernbaum says that most common injuries are fireworks "by far". “We see everything from minor hand and facial burns to severe trauma from fireworks exploding in close proximity,” he said. “Improvised or illegal fireworks tend to cause the worst damage.”

Dr. Betsy Koickel, chief medical officer of Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care in Houston, Texas told the Fox News Digital that there are many kinds of firework injuries, including eye injuries, or hearing injuries. "ye injuries are particularly troubling, as they can include corneal burns, scratches or even permanent vision loss due to flying debris or sudden explosions. The loud blasts can also harm hearing, especially in young children, sometimes resulting in ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or even long-term hearing damage,” she says. 

<strong>Alcohol-related incidents: </strong>vehicle accidents resulting in head injuries and fractures; and alcohol poisoning

<strong>Grill burns and cooking accidents:</strong> As per the National Fire Protection Association, US, July is also the peak month for grill fires. It results in flash burns and cuts due to mishandling propane tanks or grills, especially on hands and arms.

<strong>Heat Exhaustion And Dehydration: </strong>Prolonged outdoor activity also leads to severe dehydration or even heatstroke. It can also lead to kidney damage.

Car and boat accidents: This is also related to alcohol-related incidents. However, speeding boat accidents are also common and could result in ruptured spleen and multiple fractures. 

<strong>Drowning and Near drowning:</strong> As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, July has highest number of drowning deaths as compared to all months. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

happy 4th of july 2025

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4th july

july 4

fourth of july

fireworks july 4

fireworks display july 4th

health july 4

firework accidents july 4

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Fourth of July is here, and while it is a day of celebration, most commonly with fireworks, the same is also the reason why many end up in the emergency room or in the ER. As HealthDay reports, on an average, around 250 people a day end up in the ER with fireworks-related injuries in the month before and also after Independence Day. More than 75% of these injuries are around the head, neck, arms, and hands, notes the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). Dr Patrick Byrne, who is a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and president of AAFPRS says, and is as reported by HealthDay, "These injuries can include burns, eye trauma and hearing or vision issues, and in some cases, disfigurement."In a news release, he added that treatments to these burns often require multidisciplinary approach. Prevention Is Always Better Than CureStaying safe during firework displays is easier than you think—just follow a few key precautions:To begin with, it’s safest to enjoy fireworks at professional shows rather than setting off your own. Experts strongly recommend leaving the light show to trained professionals.If you do use fireworks at home, never allow children near them—even sparklers can reach temperatures close to 2,000°F and cause serious burns.Avoid touching or re-lighting fireworks that don’t go off (known as “duds”). Instead, wait at least 20 minutes, then soak them in water before safely disposing of them.Always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of fire or malfunction.If you’re lighting firecrackers yourself, do so one at a time, and step away quickly after ignition.Fourth of July: A Day Of Celebration And Busiest ER DayAs per the Pew Research Center, more than 45,000 people visit the ER on July 4 and 5, each year. This is the highest number of daily medical emergency. The New York Post reports and quotes Dr Ryan Marino, MD., an ER doctor and associate professor at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, "his time of year, we see big increases in traumatic injuries and heat-related illness."Dr Ryan also adds, "While fireworks accidents and injuries get most of the attention, there are far more falls, broken bones, head injuries and car accidents, just to name a few.”Dr. Robert Biernbaum, an emergency medicine physician in Fairport, New York told the Fox News Digital, "We routinely see a sharp spike in preventable injuries and medical emergencies."Most Common Injuries On July 4thDr Biernbaum says that most common injuries are fireworks "by far". “We see everything from minor hand and facial burns to severe trauma from fireworks exploding in close proximity,” he said. “Improvised or illegal fireworks tend to cause the worst damage.”Dr. Betsy Koickel, chief medical officer of Memorial Hermann-GoHealth Urgent Care in Houston, Texas told the Fox News Digital that there are many kinds of firework injuries, including eye injuries, or hearing injuries. "ye injuries are particularly troubling, as they can include corneal burns, scratches or even permanent vision loss due to flying debris or sudden explosions. The loud blasts can also harm hearing, especially in young children, sometimes resulting in ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or even long-term hearing damage,” she says. Other Common Injuries IncludeAlcohol-related incidents: vehicle accidents resulting in head injuries and fractures; and alcohol poisoningGrill burns and cooking accidents: As per the National Fire Protection Association, US, July is also the peak month for grill fires. It results in flash burns and cuts due to mishandling propane tanks or grills, especially on hands and arms.Heat Exhaustion And Dehydration: Prolonged outdoor activity also leads to severe dehydration or even heatstroke. It can also lead to kidney damage.Car and boat accidents: This is also related to alcohol-related incidents. However, speeding boat accidents are also common and could result in ruptured spleen and multiple fractures. Drowning and Near drowning: As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, July has highest number of drowning deaths as compared to all months. 

july 4th firework accidents are common—here’s how to stay safe

Tanya Dutt

Where Do Gluten Reactions Start In The Body?  Scientists Finally Found The Source

Nutrition

Increase Risk Of Aggressive Brain Cancer Linked To Common Sweetener Used All Over The World

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Never In The Mood Anymore? Your Gut Issues Could Be Lowering Your Sex Drive

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PCOS May Be Passed Down Through ‘Epigenetic Memory’ Even Before You Are Born—Could This Genetic Discovery Help Prevent It?

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Scientists Just Fixed A 'Faulty' Gene Behind Deafness And Hearing Loss In Children

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Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with <span>celiac disease</span>, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.

Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.

The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.

Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.

One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.

In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.

<h2>Link Between Your Gut Cells and Gluten</h2>

Until now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.

By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.

What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.

These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.

In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.

<h2>Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the Problem</h2>

Another major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.

This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.

Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.

“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”

By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.

<h2>Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?</h2>

This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.

Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”

Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.

But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.

For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

diet & nutrition

celiac disease

gluten intolerance

gut lining cells

gluten reaction

autoimmune disorder

new celiac treatment

gluten free alternative

Over 1 in 100 people worldwide living with celiac disease, consuming even trace amounts of gluten can trigger debilitating symptoms — from severe abdominal pain to long-term complications like malnutrition and increased cancer risk. But despite decades of research, the exact origin of these immune reactions remained something of a mystery.Now, scientists may have pinpointed the elusive starting point of gluten-triggered immune attacks. In a landmark study published in Gastroenterology, researchers from McMaster University in Canada, along with international collaborators, have uncovered a pivotal role played by the cells lining the gut — not just as bystanders but as active agents in the cascade that defines celiac disease. This finding could pave the way for more precise, non-dietary therapies.Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten — a group of structural proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. While most people digest gluten without issue, those with celiac disease experience an abnormal immune reaction that damages the small intestine.The symptoms range from bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea to fatigue, skin rashes, and nutrient deficiencies. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious complications including osteoporosis, infertility, and gastrointestinal cancers.Currently, the only effective treatment is lifelong strict avoidance of gluten — a tall order, given how ubiquitous gluten is in processed food, sauces, and even medications.One clue to the mystery lies in genetics. Nearly 90% of people with celiac disease carry a specific protein called HLA-DQ2.5, while most of the rest carry HLA-DQ8. These proteins are part of a group called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which present bits of proteins to the immune system — essentially acting like flags that identify threats.In people with celiac disease, HLA-DQ2.5 or DQ8 mistakenly flags gluten fragments as dangerous, prompting an aggressive immune response. But not everyone who carries these genes gets the disease — suggesting something else is required to flip the switch.Link Between Your Gut Cells and GlutenUntil now, it wasn’t fully understood how gluten peptides made their way past the gut lining and into the immune system’s crosshairs. The McMaster-led study changes that.By using transgenic mice — mice genetically engineered to carry human versions of the HLA genes — researchers were able to simulate celiac disease at the cellular level. They grew miniature gut models known as organoids, made from real mouse intestinal cells, to observe what happens when gluten meets the gut lining.What they found was striking: the epithelial cells lining the gut aren’t passive observers — they actively participate in the immune reaction.These cells release a transporting enzyme that binds to gluten peptides and modifies them, making them even more visible to the immune system. The cells then present these altered gluten fragments directly to immune cells, triggering inflammation.In other words, your own gut lining might be the place where celiac disease begins.Gut Microbes Could Be Amplifying the ProblemAnother major insight: inflammation and gut microbes appear to amplify the immune response. When the researchers exposed their organoids to inflammatory triggers and bacteria-processed gluten, the cells ramped up production of immune signaling molecules — effectively supercharging the immune reaction.This discovery opens new avenues for treatment. Targeting the gut’s microbiome or blocking the epithelial cells’ presentation of gluten peptides could offer alternatives to the gluten-free diet — something patients and clinicians alike have long hoped for.Lead researcher Dr. Elena Verdu, a gastroenterologist at McMaster, notes that while avoiding gluten is currently the only way to manage celiac disease, it is far from perfect.“This is difficult to do, and experts agree that a gluten-free diet is insufficient,” Verdu says. “Our findings show that the gut lining plays a much bigger role in initiating the immune reaction than previously believed.”By identifying the specific tissue types and enzymes involved, scientists now have a roadmap for developing targeted treatments. In the future, medications might block the gut’s gluten-presenting function, regulate inflammation, or even alter how gut bacteria break down gluten — all without having to eliminate gluten entirely.Can This Help End the Gluten-Free Dietary Restrictions?This breakthrough adds weight to the growing understanding that celiac disease is not just about the immune system being “overreactive,” but about how and where that reaction begins.Tohid Didar, a biomedical engineer on the team, says, “This allowed us to narrow down the specific cause and effect and prove exactly whether and how the reaction takes place.”Such clarity has never existed before. Now, with this map in hand, researchers can explore new therapies that go beyond dietary restrictions. Of course, these results — while promising — are still early. Most of the experiments were conducted on mice, though they carry human genes. The next step will be to confirm these findings in human tissue and clinical trials.But the implications are clear: for the first time, we know where gluten reactions start. And we might soon have a path to stop them.For people living with celiac disease, even a crumb of gluten can cause days of pain and damage. This research brings us one step closer to a world where bread, pasta, and pastries can be safely enjoyed — without fear and without compromise.

where do gluten reactions start in the body?  scientists finally found the source

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Menopause Age Plays A Significant Role In Our Future Heart Health - Can You Delay The Age?

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It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.

The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.

At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.

One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.

When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.

<h2>Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?</h2>

Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.

Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.

<h2>How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?</h2>

If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.

Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.

As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.

<h2>How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?</h2>

It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:

Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.

Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.

Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.

Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.

Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.

Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.

Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.

Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

sexual health

low sex drive

gut health and libido

estrogen imbalance

mood and hormones

gut brain axis

libido booster tips

sex drive and microbiome

It’s easy to blame low libido on stress, hormones, or simple fatigue but what if the actual perpetrator lurks deeper—literally? More and more, studies are indicating your gut health as a main player in affecting sexual desire.The gut is no longer seen as merely a digestive system. It's today understood to be a command center for a broad range of body functions—immunity, hormone balance, and even emotional well-being. And all of them have a direct or indirect impact on libido.At the core of this connection is the gut-brain axis, a two-way communication pathway linking your gastrointestinal system with your central nervous system. This process enables your gut microbiome to impact major brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, both of which are important in mood, motivation, and arousal. This is the thing: roughly 90% of the body's serotonin is actually made in the gut. So when your gut is out of whack, your mood, energy, and sex drive can suffer.What is Estrobolome?One of the most interesting new finds is the estrobolome—a special group of gut bacteria that break down estrogen. The bacteria secrete an enzyme called β-glucuronidase, which recycles estrogen and keeps hormones in check.When the estrobolome gets disturbed—perhaps by a bad diet, stress, or antibiotics—it can disrupt estrogen balance. What's the consequence? Mood swings, PMS, exhaustion, and a vanishing libido.Why Your Gut Might Be Draining Your Energy?Even when you're eating all the right foods, a gut that doesn't work well can interfere with your ability to take in necessary nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and magnesium—all of which play a central role in energy and mood management. Without sufficient supplies of these, you might feel perpetually drained and mentally cloudy. And let's face it—nobody feels sexy if they're not rested.Add to that chronic inflammation and disrupted neurotransmitter production, and you’ve got a recipe for low libido that can’t be fixed by aphrodisiacs alone.How Your Gut Affecting Your Sex Life?If you're consistently experiencing bloating, constipation, or IBS-type symptoms and also experiencing poor sleep, mood swings, or irregular periods, your gut is likely playing a more significant role than you realize. These overlapping symptoms indicate that your digestive system might be playing with your hormones and mood—both integral components of a healthy sex drive.Gut health is no silver bullet, but it is an oft-overlooked part of the libido equation. Though great gut health will not necessarily trigger an increase in sexual appetite, it provides the groundwork for enhanced mood, vitality, and emotional preparedness—all prime motivators of a healthy libido.As psychologists and nutrition scientists frequently point out, sexual desire is seldom purely biological. It's impacted by emotional attachment, self-esteem, satisfaction with one's relationship, stress levels, and even cultural conditioning.How to Reset Your Gut and Revive Your Libido?It's not difficult to enhance gut health, but it does need to be a habitual practice. Following are practical, science-supported methods to get your gut—and your libido—going strong:Nourish your gut flora: Consume more whole foods containing fiber such as leafy greens, lentils, and whole grains.Include fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi add good bacteria.Exercise regularly: Activity supports diversity of gut flora and reduces inflammation.Deal with stress: Ongoing stress can disrupt the gut-brain axis. Try breathwork or mindfulness.Sleep: Inadequate sleep disturbs both gut and hormonal balance.Hydrate: Water keeps the gut mucosal lining intact, facilitating absorption and immunity.Stay away from unnecessary antibiotics: They destroy both bad and good bacteria.Your gut may be doing more than break down your food. It may be quietly influencing your mood, your hormones—and yes, your sex life. Although low libido can have countless causes, focusing on your gut is one of the most compelling ways to support your overall health and rediscover your desire. If you've been feeling "off," begin by paying attention to your gut. It might be attempting to communicate more with you than you realize.

Aarushi Bhadury

Pneumonic Plague Death Raises Alarm, Can Prairie Dogs Be The Cause Of It?

UKHSA Issues A Health Directive For People Travelling Abroad - Essential Travel Checklist

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Child Dies Of Measles In UK Hospital As Health Officials Warn Of Rapid Community Spread

child dies of measles in uk hospital as health officials warn of rapid community spread

The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old <span>health crisis bubonic plague</span>, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. 

The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many <span>prairie dogs</span> were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. 

<h2>What Is <span rel="noindex">Pneumonic Plague</span>?</h2>

Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in <span>wild rodents</span> and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: 

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Headache</li><li>Weakness</li><li>A cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)</li></ul>

If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.

<h2>How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? </h2>

According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.

The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should have

Use veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. 

If you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services 

<strong>Keep rodents away from your home</strong>

Clear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. 

Never feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. 

Use insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. 

This prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. 

Don't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. 

Cats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. 

If your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Pneumonic Plague

Pneumonic Plague Death

Prairie Dogs

health crisis bubonic plague

wild rodents

is Pneumonic Plague contagious

The sudden death of a Northern Arizona resident due to the pneumonic plague- a diseases that is the known cause of the century old health crisis bubonic plague, has raised alarm among the locals and health officials alike. The person died from the plague just 24 hours after feeling sick and showing symptoms. This is a rare but serious case of the disease in the United States amid the declining rate of immunization. The person, whose name hasn't been released, was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a very bad condition and passed away the same day. The case has raised new worries, especially since it happened at the same time as many prairie dogs were reported dying near Flagstaff. This is a natural warning sign that the plague might be spreading among wild animals in the area. What Is Pneumonic Plague?Plague is a rare but serious illness that can affect both animals and humans. It's caused by a type of bacteria called Yersinia pestis (Y. pestis). These bacteria are found in wild rodents and their fleas in many parts of the world, including most of the western United States. Pneumonic Plague is a more concerning type because it affects the lungs. It happens when you breathe in the Y. pestis bacteria. This form of plague can be spread from person to person. Symptoms of pneumonic plague usually start one to four days after exposure. These include: FeverHeadacheWeaknessA cough that produces bloody or watery mucus (due to lung infection, or pneumonia)If you start showing symptoms, see a doctor right away. If you think you might have been intentionally exposed to pneumonic plague, contact law enforcement immediately. Currently, there's no vaccine for pneumonic plague. However, antibiotics can be used to prevent illness in people who have been exposed to the bacteria.How Are Prairie Dogs Linked To This? According to a report received by Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) on 7th July, Townsend Winona area experienced a prairie dog die-off. They explained that a sudden die-off of prairie dogs and other rodents can be a warning sign for plague, a serious disease that can affect both animals and people. The bacteria that cause plague, Yersinia pestis, spread through the bite of infected fleas or by touching sick animals. People can also get infected from sick pets.Can The Plague Be Prevented?The affected area is on private land, CCHHS is working with the property owner to collect fleas for testing. They'll also contact other nearby property owners to expand their checks and potentially treat the area. Rodent burrows will be treated to reduce flea activity, and the area will continue to be watched closely because plague is common in Coconino County, CCHHS has a system to monitor for the disease. They also watch for other diseases like West Nile virus and rabies to quickly find them, understand how they spread, and take steps to protect the public. Here are some preventative tips you should haveProtect your pets from fleasUse veterinarian-approved flea treatments, keep your pets on a leash, and keep them away from areas where wild rodents live. Report dead rodentsIf you see many dead rodents or rabbits, please call animal services Keep rodents away from your homeClear away brush, rock piles, trash, and lumber from around your house and sheds. Store food in containers that rodents can't get into. Avoid wild animalsNever feed or touch wild rodents, and stay away from areas where they are known to live. Do not touch sick or dead animals. Prevent flea bitesUse insect repellent with 20-30% DEET and tuck your pant legs into your socks. Keep dogs on leashThis prevents them from roaming around rodent burrows and is also required by Arizona State law. Be careful when campingDon't camp near rodent burrows and avoid sleeping directly on the ground. Be aware of sick catsCats can easily get plague. If your cat is sick (especially if it roams outside), take it to a vet right away for diagnosis and treatment to reduce the risk of people getting plague. Get vet care for sick petsIf your pet shows symptoms like a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, loss of appetite, a cough, or eye discharge, contact a veterinarian immediately.