Infectious Diseases

Natural spring water: Why 'pure' can still mean peril for patients

A recent outbreak of illness among wedding guests highlights the persistent risks of untreated water sources, even those perceived as natural and safe. Public health investigations are underway to identify the specific pathogens and prevent further spread.

Foodborne outbreaks: Are we seeing more, or just reporting better?

Reports of foodborne illness seemed to surge this summer, prompting questions about whether the season was an anomaly or part of a broader trend.

RSV and COVID-19 vaccines: Why are we still underestimating their impact?

Vaccination against RSV and COVID-19 offers a critical strategy for mitigating the burden of respiratory diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Bixlenvo: Is the smallest HIV pill also the biggest advantage?

The FDA has approved Bixlenvo, a new single-pill regimen for HIV, notable for its compact size. This approval offers a new option for treatment-naïve adults and adolescents.

Dolutegravir for HIV in newborns: A new option for an urgent need

Dolutegravir, an integrase strand transfer inhibitor, has received FDA approval for treating HIV-1 infection in newborns and infants.

Undiagnosed TB deaths in England highlight diagnostic failures

Hundreds of individuals in England have died from tuberculosis without receiving a diagnosis, underscoring critical gaps in public health surveillance and clinical detection pathways.

Serology and PCR: Optimising COVID-19 Episode Identification

Integrating serology with PCR and rapid antigen tests improves COVID-19 episode identification, particularly in vaccinated individuals, according to BRACE trial insights.

Asymptomatic bacteriuria: The treatment decision that fuels antibiotic resistance

Treating asymptomatic bacteriuria often leads to unnecessary antibiotic exposure, driving resistance without improving patient outcomes. Guidelines consistently advise against routine treatment in most populations.

Why syphilis rates keep climbing in high-income countries

Syphilis incidence continues to rise across high-income nations, driven by complex shifts in sexual health practices and public health infrastructure.