An electronic “scoreboard” can now track any sudden changes in patients’ health at a Welsh hospital.
Ysbyty Gwynedd pioneers electronic early warning system
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Daily Archives: 21/12/2017
Vending machines call for STI and HIV test kits
A charity wants to “normalise” testing and reduce the stigma of getting checked out.
Shingles vaccine ‘has cut cases by a third’ in England
But Public Health England is urging more people in their 70s to get their free injection.
Star in the constellation Pisces is ‘eating’ planets
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Health24.com | UPDATE: Listeriosis death toll rises to 60
South Africa has experienced its biggest Listeriosis outbreak ever, with the food-borne disease claiming 60 lives after infecting 647 people this year.
The deadly food-borne disease, which was first documented in the country 40 years ago, has now been classified as a category 1 notifiable medical condition, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has confirmed.
“This means it must be reported immediately using the most rapid means upon clinical or laboratory diagnosis followed by a written or electronic notification within 24 hours of diagnosis,” the institute explained.
“This will allow us to investigate possible exposures for disease sooner,” the NICD told Health24.
No need to panic
The NICD added that South Africans should not panic and reiterated that everyone should adhere to the five keys to safe food.
“These are food hygiene practices that assist in the prevention of foodborne illness generally, not just Listeria.”
It is also advised to cook food thoroughly, only use pasteurised milk products and keep food at safe temperatures.
The data suggests most cases in this outbreak have had exposure to a widely available, common food type or source. However, it is not clear what the source of the infection is.
Increase in number of cases
The total number of laboratory-confirmed Listeriosis cases is now 647 compared to 557 when it was first announced by the Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi earlier in December. The initial death count was 36.
Gauteng is still the province most affected with 399 cases, followed by Western Cape at 84 and 45 in KwaZulu-Natal.
Where age and gender was recorded, it ranged from birth to 93 years, and females account for 55% of cases.
The NIDC noted that apart from neonates and the elderly, additional risk factors for Listeriosis reported include pregnant woman and HIV infection status.
Those infected with severe Listeriosis may require urgent medical care. Treatment can include antibiotics or fluids through an IV drip.
A probe – with a team consisting of public and private entities – into the outbreak is ongoing.
Image credit: iStock
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An integrated assessment of vascular plants species of the Americas
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Wheat disease breakthrough to help feed the world
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Hospitals to cancel ops to cope with winter surge
Bosses say the move is needed to prepare for the early January spike in demand, but surgeons complain of short notice.
Health24.com | SEE: 16 photos from Doctors Without Borders in 2017 that you have to see
The information on Health24 is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional. See additional information.
Health24.com | The 3 most important changes to make if you’re trying to lose belly fat
In news that will shock approximately no one: In a Women’s Health survey, women worldwide revealed that, of all their body parts, they’re most insecure about their midsection.
Though healthy bellies come in all shapes and sizes, we know that the fat that lies deep within your abdomen (the kind you can’t pinch between your fingers) is the worst kind, since it promotes inflammation and can be hard on your heart.
But a shocking number of women still have it – even the seemingly fit.
Read more: Can’t sleep? Losing belly fat might help
Good news is, you don’t need a six-pack to be healthy! Simple changes can target this freaky fat.
So we talked to Dr Travis Stork, author of The Lose Your Belly Diet, and snagged his best tips to keep your tum in great shape.
1. You don’t have to give up carbs…
But you do need to add fibre. Yes, it keeps you full, but it also promotes good gut bacteria, which has been linked to a healthy weight.
2. Eat almonds
Almonds are a satisfying, fibre-rich choice, and a recent study showed that people who ate them daily lost more abdominal fat than those who didn’t.
Read more: Seven reasons why you should lose your belly fat
3. Lift weights at least three times per week
Resistance training at least three days a week can help you burn more fat, including in your belly, since muscle revs your metabolism.
But don’t knock moderate exercise either. Sticking to a routine is most important for weight management overall, so pick something you enjoy – jogging, brisk walking, whatever – and make it a habit.
This article was originally featured on www.womenshealthsa.co.za
Image credit: iStock
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