Experts Advise Physicians to Screen As Early as Possible During Pregnancy
Amid rising rates of congenital syphilis, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended that physicians screen pregnant individuals as early as possible for syphilis. Cases of congenital syphilis rose by 1,000 percent between 2012 to 2022. About 9 in 10 cases of congenital syphilis cases are preventable if tested for and treated early enough. Congenital syphilis occurs when a pregnant person is infected during pregnancy and passes on the infection to their baby. If not treated, this bacterial infection can cause health problems such as premature birth, low birth weight, impaired vision or hearing, and bone or teeth abnormalities.
Full Story: Healio
Walking Pneumonia Cases Surge Among Young Children
Walking pneumonia infections continue to rise this year, especially in children. The number of walking pneumonia cases declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, but cases and emergency department visits have rebounded in a big way this year. Data from the CDC reveal an upsurge in infections between April and October for people of all ages, but children have experienced the greatest spike in cases. While most individuals with walking pneumonia recover without serious consequences, a small minority of patients suffer severe health complications.
Full Story: USA Today
