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What your patients are reading: Week of July 1, 2024
July 5, 2024
Dengue fever alert issued in Florida Keys
Although most of the dengue cases reported in the U.S. this year have been travel related, health officials have issued a dengue fever alert in the Florida Keys due to two locally acquired cases. The incidence of dengue fever is at a record high globally, with a significant surge in Latin American countries, and is linked to rising temperatures which create ideal conditions for mosquitos to hatch and carry the virus. While most infected individuals recover within a week, severe cases can occur, especially in those who were previously infected, prompting recommendations for prevention methods such as using insect repellent, staying indoors, and cleaning up areas with stagnant water. (Acevedo, 2024)
High bacteria levels close multiple U.S. beaches
Multiple beaches across the U.S. have been closed due to high levels of bacteria in the water, with some testing positive for fecal bacteria. As of Monday, at least 37 beaches were closed in Massachusetts due to "bacterial exceedance," according to the state's Department of Public Health. The increase in bacteria, including enterococci, cyanobacteria, and E. coli, is linked to heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff, which can carry fecal waste into bodies of water. The closures underscore the need for public health vigilance, as exposure to these bacteria can lead to illness and infection. (Kekatos, 2024)
Therapy dogs boost mental health at U.S. Olympic gymnastics trials
In a first for the U.S. Olympic gymnastics trials, therapy dogs were brought in to help support the mental well-being of the athletes. Among the therapy dogs, Beacon, a 4-year-old golden retriever, was a favorite among gymnasts, coaches, and judges. This move highlights the increasing emphasis on mental health in sports, particularly in high-stress events like the Olympics. Additionally, as part of a mental health emergency plan initiated two years ago, local doctors and mental health professionals are now on-call during U.S. gymnastics events. (Macur, 2024)
Sources:
Acevedo, N. (2024, July 2). NBC News. Health officials in the Florida Keys issue a dengue fever alert. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/health-officials-florida-keys-issue-local-dengue-fever-alert-rcna159931
Kekatos, M. (2024, July 1). ABC News. High levels of bacteria in water lead to multiple beach closures across the U.S. https://abcnews.go.com/Health/high-levels-bacteria-water-lead-multiple-beach-closures/story?id=111571793
Macur, J. (2024, June 28). New York Times. https://nytimes.com/2024/06/28/us/olympics-gymnastics-therapy-dogs-mental-health.html
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