The World Nearly Beat Polio. What Went Wrong?

The World Nearly Beat Polio: Understanding the Setbacks

Did you know that just a few decades ago, the world was on the cusp of eradicating polio, a devastating disease that has plagued humanity for centuries? It’s a story about scientific triumph, but also a stark reminder of how complex public health challenges can be, especially when misinformation and logistical hurdles get in the … Read more

Warmer Weather, More Ticks: Understanding the Link to Lyme Disease

Climate Change and Ticks: How Warmer Weather Spreads Lyme Disease

Have you noticed the weather feeling a bit different lately? As an atmospheric scientist, I often look at how our planet’s climate is changing, and today, I want to connect those changes directly to something that might be impacting your backyard: ticks. Recent reports, like one from CNN, have highlighted how a warmer, more humid … Read more

Tick-Borne Troubles: How Our Warmer World is Spreading Disease

Climate Change Fuels Tick-Borne Diseases like Lyme

Did you know that the warmer and more humid conditions we’re experiencing are creating a perfect breeding ground for ticks? As a climate scientist, I’ve been following the data, and it’s clear that our changing environment is having a direct impact on public health, especially concerning tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. Think about it: ticks, … Read more

Understanding Vibrio Vulnificus: What You Need to Know About This Rising Threat

Vibrio Vulnificus Rising: Understanding the 'Flesh-Eating' Bacteria Threat

Did you know that warm coastal waters can harbor more than just a pleasant swimming experience? As the summer heat continues, we’re hearing concerning reports about an increase in cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a bacterium that can cause severe illness. Doctors along the U.S. Gulf Coast have noted a rise in infections, with recent reports … Read more

Beyond the Storm: The Lingering Health Toll of Tropical Cyclones

Tropical Cyclones' Long-Term Health Impact: Strokes, Heart Attacks Rise

Did you know that the impact of tropical cyclones stretches far beyond the immediate destruction? A recent global study has uncovered a disturbing long-term health consequence: cardiovascular hospitalizations continue to rise for months after these extreme weather events. This isn’t just about immediate injuries. The research highlights that strokes and heart attacks see a significant … Read more

Liver Cancer Cases Could Nearly Double Globally: What’s the Connection to Our Changing Planet?

Liver Cancer Rise Linked to Climate Change? Understanding the Environmental Factors

As an environmental scientist, I’m constantly looking at how our planet’s health impacts ours. Lately, the news about a potential doubling of liver cancer cases globally has really hit home. It’s a stark reminder that environmental changes and human health are deeply intertwined. Did you know that liver cancer is already one of the deadliest … Read more

Raw Milk: A Delicious Idea With Dangerous Bacteria

Raw Milk: A Delicious Idea With Dangerous Bacteria

As a scientist, I’m naturally drawn to understanding how things work, especially when it comes to public health. An outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to commercially distributed raw milk recently caught my attention. It’s a stark reminder that sometimes, the simplest foods can carry hidden risks. So, what exactly is raw milk? It’s milk … Read more