The COVID-19 pandemic had already brought way too many challenges in the United States, including a severe decrease in country's life expectancy rates. With challenges, it also brought a lessons of mitigating the treat of pathogens, though health experts feel that the US has not learned the lesson well.

Dr Deborah Birx, the White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator told CNN, "We kind of have our head in the sand about how widespread this is from the zoonotic standpoint, from the animal-to-human standpoint."

The doctor has called for a wider-spread testing of farm workers. This is because they make up the majority of identified Bird flu cases in the United States. This means the country is heading into an even higher-risk period as the seasonal flu begins to circulate. This also raises a question of whether a person be infected by both, the seasonal flu and the H5N1 or bird flu viruses. Does that also mean that the viruses could swap gene segments? Would that give the bird flu more tools to better infect humans? These are some questions which are raised by the health experts across the country.

Bird Flu Data Is Outdated

The tests are not enough, a spokesperson for the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told the media outlet that the "comments about avian flu (H5N1) testing are out of date, misleading and inaccurate."

ALSO READ: The US Reports A Rare Case Of Bird Flu, CDC Notes Change In Infection Pattern

While the data indicates that asymptomatic infections are rare, CDC changed its recommendations back in November and widen the testing net that including asymptomatic people with high-risk exposure to avian flu. The results showed that more than 70,000 specimens have been tested, looking for novel flu viruses. More than 10,000 people were exposed to avian flu, they were also monitored for symptoms, and 540 people were tested specifically for H5N1.

First Severe Human Case of Bird Flu

CDC also confirmed the first severe case of bird flu in humans in the US, which showed the signs of mutation. The sample was taken from a patient in Louisiana, which showed mutations in the gene which is responsible for attaching to host's cells. This is a concern, as it raises the questions of whether the H5N1 virus can actually swap gene segment with other flu?

As of now, as per CDC, there are 66 human cases of bird flu across the United States, though the number is believed to be higher.

The Louisiana patient was infected with a strain of the bird flu virus called D1.1. The patient is 65 years old and also has underlying health problems. "It has been determined that the patient had exposure to sick and dead birds in backyard flocks," the CDC said. Another such case of mutation has also been reported in British Columbia, Canada.

Bird Flu's Impact Beyond Health

Health is a major concern, however, the spread of bird flu in the United States, especially among poultry flocks has also causes egg prices to skyrocket. From $2.50 for a dozen Grade A large eggs at the beginning of the year, the prices have reached up to $3.65 in November.

READ MORE: How To Eat Eggs Safely?

Another growing concern is of the cat food. As this week, the Northwest Naturals recalled a line of its raw and frozen chow after health authorities linked the death of a cat to a batch of feed contaminated with bird flu. Does it means that house cats are carrying a deadly disease? Is it safe for humans to have cats amid the increasing cases of bird flu?

While these are important questions to ask and the answers are yet to be found, there are certain symptoms for you to look out for so you can protect your health:

• Pink eye
• fever
• fatigue
• cough
• muscle aches
• sore throat
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• study or runny nose
• shortness of breath

If you often find yourself tossing in bed or staring at the ceiling at 3 a.m., you might be wondering whether magnesium, the mineral known for promoting calm and relaxation, could be the key to better sleep. It may be worth exploring, especially if your body lacks enough of it, says Denise M. Millstine, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and director of integrative medicine and health at Mayo Clinic in Arizona.

Those most at risk of magnesium deficiency include women, older adults, people who drink alcohol regularly, and anyone whose diet relies heavily on processed or convenience foods.

So, does magnesium truly live up to the hype? It’s certainly trending. According to Growth Market Reports, sales of topical magnesium products reached $421.6 million in 2023, while Grand View Research valued the magnesium supplement market at $29.3 million in 2024.

What Are Magnesium Supplements?

Magnesium supports over 300 essential body functions and plays a major role in healthy aging. Still, the belief that it can be a hidden cure-all deserves a closer look. To separate science from speculation, let’s examine two widely circulated claims on social media: that magnesium guarantees better sleep, and that it can ease anxiety or depression.

How Magnesium May Help With Sleep

Magnesium helps regulate several processes in the body, including the balance of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that allow nerve cells to communicate, Dr Millstine explains. These messengers influence mood, sleep, memory, and muscle control.

“Some neurotransmitters stimulate, while others calm,” she says. “Magnesium helps maintain balance between the two.” If you struggle with anxiety or racing thoughts at bedtime, magnesium might help tilt the scale toward the calming side, making it easier to drift off.

Dr Millstine adds that people with “busy minds” may notice the most improvement. “Some individuals can suppress their anxious thoughts during the day, but when night falls, their minds grow louder and harder to quiet,” she explains.

Can Taking Magnesium Have Side Effects?

Experts do not advise magnesium supplements for people who aren’t deficient in the mineral.

While generally safe, it’s best to consult a doctor before adding magnesium to your routine, especially if you have existing health issues. The supplement may not be suitable for those taking certain diuretics, antibiotics, or heart medications.

Most users experience no side effects, though high doses can lead to digestive problems. Possible reactions include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

People with kidney problems are more vulnerable to magnesium toxicity, as their bodies may struggle to clear excess amounts.

How Much Magnesium Should You Take?

The ideal magnesium dosage ranges between 200 and 400 mg daily, depending on the product. This typically provides the full recommended daily intake.

According to Healthline, the safe upper limit for magnesium supplements is 350 mg per day. Staying within this range helps reduce the risk of digestive discomfort and other side effects.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement or treatment.

In a recent post, Dr Sudhir Kumar busted 10 common misconceptions people have about health. Health misconceptions occur very often, while you may not realize it; we also perpetuate these myths very often.

To help people avoid these, Dr Sudhir Kumar, a Hyderabad-based Neurologist, listed misconceptions about common diseases. The reason why it is important to know what to believe and what not to, is because these myths can lead people to ignore obvious health signs, like signs of heart attacks, because they believe they are unlikely to get one themselves.

10 Health Myths You Should Not Believe

Here are 10 common health misconceptions you should know about, according to Dr Sudhir Kumar.

Myth: Stroke Only Happens to the Elderly.

Fact: Stroke Can Happen at Any Age. Many people think strokes are just an old-age problem, but this is false. Strokes can strike young adults, even in their 30s or 40s. Having high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking greatly increases the risk, regardless of your age. Staying healthy is crucial for everyone.

Myth: Heart Attacks Always Cause Severe Chest Pain.

Fact: Heart Attacks Can Be Silent or Mild. It’s a common belief that a heart attack is always a sudden, crushing pain. However, many heart attacks are mild or "silent," causing only slight discomfort or unusual fatigue. This is especially common in women and people with diabetes, making it easy to overlook.

Myth: Fever Must Always Be Brought Down Quickly.

Fact: Fever is Your Body's Natural Defense. Fever is how your immune system fights off infections. You only need to treat it if the temperature is dangerously high or if you feel very uncomfortable. For mild fevers, let your body do its job; focus on rest and hydration instead.

Myth: Antibiotics Cure Colds and Flu.

Fact: Antibiotics Only Fight Bacteria, Not Viruses. Colds and the flu are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are useless against them. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily will not help and actually makes them less effective against real bacterial infections later on. Only use them when prescribed for bacteria.

Myth: High Blood Pressure Always Causes Symptoms.

Fact: Hypertension is Usually a Silent Condition. High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the "silent killer" because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms until it's very severe. This is why getting your blood pressure checked regularly is essential. You need routine checks to catch it early before it causes damage.

Myth: Eating Sweets Causes Diabetes.

Fact: Diabetes is Complex, Not Just Caused by Sugar. While eating too much sugar makes Type 2 diabetes worse, the disease is primarily caused by a mix of genetics, not exercising enough, and the body's inability to properly use insulin (insulin resistance). It is a lifestyle disorder, not just a sugar problem.

Myth: Sunscreen is Only Needed on Sunny Days.

Fact: Harmful UV Rays Get Through Clouds Daily. Many people skip sunscreen on cloudy or overcast days, but this is a mistake. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which damage your skin, can easily penetrate clouds. You need to apply sunscreen every single day for proper protection against skin aging and cancer.

Myth: Cancer Always Runs in Families.

Fact: Lifestyle and Environment Cause Most Cancers. While certain rare cancers are linked to inherited genes, the majority of cancer cases are actually caused by daily habits and environmental factors. Things like smoking, diet, lack of exercise, and sun exposure play a much bigger role in cancer risk for most people.

Myth: Once Symptoms Improve, You Can Stop Taking Medicines.

Fact: Stopping Treatment Early Can Cause Relapse. You must always finish the full course of medicine as directed by your doctor. Stopping treatment too soon—especially antibiotics or blood pressure medication—allows the illness to come back or get worse. Follow the prescription to fully clear the infection or manage the condition.

Myth: Mental Health Problems Mean Weakness.

Fact: Mental Health Issues Are Real Medical Conditions. Conditions like depression or anxiety are genuine medical illnesses, just like diabetes or heart disease. They are not a sign that a person is weak or failing. Seeking help from a professional shows courage and strength, taking an active step toward recovery and well-being.

Your hormonal health plays a huge role in your health, and if you think it is something you need to worry about only when you get older. However, that is not true; you must pay attention to it even if you are in your 20s. Dr Holly Miller, an American Board–certified obstetrician and gynecologists, shared a video explaining why it is important for youngsters to regulate their hormonal health.

Your twenties are a critical time for building the foundation of your long-term health, impacting everything from your fertility and metabolism to your overall well-being. Hormone balance is about more than just your menstrual cycle, it profoundly influences your skin, mood, energy levels, and even your long-term risk for conditions like PCOS or endometriosis.

5 Ways To Maintain Your Hormonal Health

Here are five evidence-based strategies to actively support your hormone health

Prioritize Deep, Consistent Sleep

Sleep is the time when your body performs essential repair and resets your hormonal systems. When you consistently get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep, you stabilize cortisol, your main stress hormone.

High cortisol from lack of sleep throws off the production of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which can lead to irregular cycles and worsen PMS. Think of a good night's sleep as the number one way to calm your internal chemistry and support the natural rhythm your hormones need to thrive.

Balance Your Blood Sugar

Rapid spikes in blood sugar trigger a rush of the hormone insulin to bring the sugar down. Over time, these frequent spikes lead to insulin resistance, a major driver of hormonal imbalances like PCOS. The key is to slow down sugar absorption.

When you eat carbohydrates like bread or fruit, always pair them with protein like eggs or chicken and healthy fat like avocado or nuts. This simple habit keeps your insulin levels steady and prevents the hormonal chaos caused by rollercoaster blood sugar.

Minimize Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are hidden in many everyday products, from the lining of food cans (BPA) to synthetic fragrances and certain plastics. These chemicals are problematic because they can mimic or block your natural hormones, especially estrogen.

This interference can confuse your body, leading to heavy periods, unpredictable cycles, or fertility issues. Start simple: switch to using glass water bottles and food storage, choose fragrance-free products, and look for "paraben-free" labels on your skincare and makeup.

Engage in Regular Movement

Movement isn't just for weight loss, it is powerful hormonal medicine. Exercise, especially resistance training (lifting weights or using body weight), makes your cells much more responsive to insulin.

This means your body can process sugar more efficiently, which is vital for balancing all other hormones. Additionally, regular movement helps reduce body-wide inflammation, which is a primary cause of painful, uncomfortable period symptoms. Aim for a mix of strength training and light cardio throughout your week.

Fuel Up on Key Nutrients

Your hormones require specific building blocks and helpers to function optimally. Three critical nutrients are: Omega-3s, which are found in fatty fish/flaxseed, that reduce inflammation to ease cramps and mood swings.

Vitamin D, which acts more like a hormone itself and plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle; and Magnesium, known as "nature's relaxant," which helps reduce PMS-related anxiety, migraines, and cramps. Focus on incorporating these vital fats and minerals into your diet every day to directly support better hormonal health.