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Trending Patient News: Week of October 27, 2025

October 31, 2025

Keeping you a step ahead is our priority. That's why we've gathered some of the top stories your patients might be seeing. Here are this week's highlights:

Can sour candy help alleviate anxiety? Experts weigh in

(Today Show)—Mental health experts say sour candy can serve as a short-term grounding tool by engaging taste and sensory focus, redirecting anxious thoughts to the present. It’s not a treatment, but it may complement evidence-based therapies like CBT. Read more

Is it time for your flu shot? What to know about effectiveness and how long it lasts

(NBC News)—CDC and other experts advise vaccination by late October; immunity builds in ~2 weeks and lasts through peak season (February), though early shots may wane by spring. Read more

Why many Americans who are in the ER on Halloween end up there

(CNN)—Most injuries stem from pumpkin carving (deep hand lacerations), falls during trick-or-treating, and pedestrian accidents; burns and allergic reactions also have been reported. Read more

Wave of RSV, particularly dangerous for babies, washing over U.S.; doctors urge vaccination

(Los Angeles Times)—RSV hospitalizations are rising among infants; new preventive options include maternal vaccination at 32 to 36 weeks and monoclonal antibodies for newborns. Read more

Nearly 1 in 5 urinary tract infections linked to raw meat contaminated with E. coli, study finds

(USA Today)—Genomic analysis ties 18% of UTIs to foodborne E. coli strains, mainly from chicken and turkey; the risk is higher in low-income areas. Study authors emphasize safe handling and cooking. Read more

Half of Americans don’t know this common habit increases cancer risk

(Newsweek)—Survey shows 53% unaware that alcohol consumption is a Group 1 carcinogen; linked to ~6% of U.S. cancer deaths, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancers. Read more

Canada is likely to lose its measles elimination status. The U.S. could be next.

(NBC News)—Public health officials warn declining vaccination rates may lead to measles resurgence across North America. Read more

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