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Source of person's recent bird flu case remains a mystery — and experts say that's concerning
By Kamal Nahas last updated
The latest human case of bird flu in the U.S. occurred in a patient with no reported exposure to affected animals, sparking questions over whether the virus is spreading between people. Experts say that's unlikely but argue the case raises other concerns.
New self-swab HPV test is an alternative to Pap smears. Here's how it works.
By Julie Goldenberg published
There's a new way to screen for high-risk HPV, a viral infection that can lead to cervical cancer. This alternative method of collecting samples for cervical cancer screening doesn't require a speculum.
New York resident dies of eastern equine encephalitis — what is it?
By Nicoletta Lanese last updated
Recent cases of a viral illness nicknamed "triple E" have occurred in New England. Here's what you should know about the disease.
At-home flu vaccine approved by FDA — what to know
By Emily Cooke published
People could previously get the nasal spray flu vaccine, called FluMist, from a health care provider, but now they can administer it themselves.
Saline nose drops may shorten colds and cut transmission, trial hints
By Michael Schubert published
Giving children saline nose drops at the start of a cold may shorten its duration and reduce the likelihood that they will pass the illness to others, a study hints. But it has some caveats.
Scientists invent tool to see how 'healthy' your gut microbiome is — does it work?
By Emily Cooke published
A new tool can reveal whether someone has a "healthy" gut microbiome with a simple score — but how does it work?
Hospitalized patients with flu need Tamiflu the day they're admitted, CDC says
By Emily Cooke published
New research suggests that hospitalized patients with flu who start taking Tamiflu the day they are admitted are 40% less likely to die within a month than those treated just days later.
New tick-borne virus discovered in China can affect the brain, scientists report
By Nicoletta Lanese published
Scientists present evidence of a newly discovered tick-borne virus that can infect humans and potentially invade the brain, in some cases.
Anthrax has killed over 50 animals in Wyoming — what's the risk to people?
By Emily Cooke published
At least 50 animals, including cattle and one moose, in Wyoming have died during a recent outbreak of anthrax. However, officials say the current risk to humans is small.
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