China detects new mpox strain linked to Congo outbreak

WHO reassures public: bird flu risk remains low after first U.S. death

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that the risk to the general population from H5N1 bird flu remains low, despite the first reported death from the virus in the United States.

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan monitor respiratory viruses, urge precautions

Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan are actively monitoring respiratory viruses, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), as part of their efforts to control severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). Health officials in both nations are urging preventative measures to curb the spread of illnesses.

First case of new Mpox variant reported in France

France has reported its first case of the new mpox clade 1b variant, linked to a global health emergency declared by the WHO, with health authorities investigating the source and tracing contacts in the Brittany region.

Kazakhstan reports 30 cases of metapneumovirus amid regional health concerns

Kazakhstan's health ministry has confirmed 30 cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid a surge in respiratory illnesses in Central Asia. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms, represents 1.6% of over 8,000 samples tested this season. Nearby Kyrgyzstan and China have also reported cases.

Louisiana reports first bird flu-related death in US

U.S. reports first human death from H5N1 bird flu in Louisiana. Experts urge caution for those in contact with birds as the virus spreads among poultry and wildlife.

US surgeon general urges cancer warnings for alcoholic drinks

The U.S. Surgeon General calls for cancer risk warnings on alcohol labels, highlighting links to seven cancers and urging updated consumption guidelines.

WHO declares cholera "major emergency" as cases surge globally

Cholera's global resurgence sparks alarm as WHO calls for urgent action: vaccines, clean water, and sanitation are vital to combat the deadly outbreaks spreading worldwide.

Bird flu virus shows mutations in first severe human case in US, CDC says

CDC finds rare mutations in U.S. bird flu case; risk to the public remains low.

Rwanda declares that Marburg virus outbreak is over

Rwanda declares an end to the Marburg virus outbreak after 42 days with no new cases, reporting 66 cases, 15 deaths, and 51 recoveries, says Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana.

Lenacapavir HIV drug could reach low-income nations by 2025-2026

A new long-acting preventive HIV drug, lenacapavir, could be available in the world’s poorest countries by late 2025 or early 2026, according to Hui Yang, head of supply operations at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

UK Pledges $63 Million Aid Package for Vulnerable Syrians

Britain has pledged a £50 million ($63 million) aid package to support vulnerable Syrians following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad, addressing urgent humanitarian needs both within Syria and in neighboring countries.

WHO Chief confident pandemic pact possible by May 2025

WHO aims to finalise a pandemic pact by May 2025, despite uncertainty under Trump’s leadership, as nations negotiate global collaboration amid ongoing health crises.

Malaria progress stalls amid growing challenges

Malaria cases soared to 263 million in 2023, with deaths steady at 597,000, highlighting stalled progress, WHO reports.

WHO confident pandemic agreement will be finalized despite challenges

The World Health Organization's Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has expressed confidence that a global pandemic agreement will be finalized by May 2025, despite concerns over US participation under President-elect Donald Trump.

Undiagnosed disease in Congo puts children, malnourished at risk, WHO says

A mystery disease is spreading in Congo’s remote Panzi health zone, mainly affecting malnourished children under five. With 406 cases and 31 deaths reported, WHO experts are investigating as limited resources and severe conditions hinder efforts.

Mpox outbreak could start plateauing next year, Africa CDC says

Biden to propose expanded Medicare, Medicaid coverage of obesity drugs, official says

U.S. President Joe Biden has proposed expanding Medicare and Medicaid coverage to include anti-obesity drugs, potentially cutting out-of-pocket costs by 95%.

Hong Kong medics move to use AI to treat high risk patients at early stage

Elon Musk's Neuralink receives Canadian approval for brain chip trial

Neuralink to trial brain implant in Canada, aiming to help paralysed patients control devices through thought.