Fauci’s West Nile diagnosis, veterans call for health care and communication with dementia patients

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August 28, 2024

WEST NILE DEATH REPORTED IN TEXAS AS HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN RESIDENTS TO SAFEGUARD AGAINST MOSQUITOES

A disease transmitted by mosquitoes — the Oropouche virus, also known as sloth fever — has been detected in the United States.

Travelers returning to the U.S. from Cuba contracted the virus in recent months, as reported by The Associated Press. No fatalities have been reported.

The Oropouche virus is endemic in the Amazon basin and has also been reported in South America and the Caribbean.

More than 8,000 cases were reported globally between Jan. 1 and Aug. 1, 2024, including two deaths and five cases of transmission from mother to fetus, the CDC noted in an Aug. 16 advisory.

Sloth fever has been reported in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia and Cuba.

More than 8,000 cases were reported globally between Jan. 1 and Aug. 1, 2024, including two deaths and five cases of transmission from mother to fetus. (iStock)

So far, 11 cases have been identified in travelers returning from Cuba and Brazil, the CDC stated.

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“Although travel-associated cases have been identified in the United States, no evidence of local transmission currently exists within the United States or its territories,” the agency said.

“As testing and surveillance for Oropouche virus disease increase in the Americas, reports of cases from additional countries are expected.”

What is the Oropouche virus?

The Oropouche virus first emerged in Trinidad and Tobago in 1955.

Since then, it has had “limited circulation” in regions of South America, particularly in forested areas, according to the CDC.

The disease is typically spread through bites from mosquitoes and midges (small flies, particularly the Culicoides paraensis species).

Three-toed sloths and birds have been identified as “natural reservoirs” for the Oropouche virus, which means they act as hosts of the disease. (iStock)

Three-toed sloths and birds have been identified as “natural reservoirs” for Oropouche, which means they act as hosts of the disease.

“The virus doesn’t spread from person to person,” Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, confirmed to Fox News Digital.

“There is some risk to the fetus in terms of birth defects.”

Symptoms of Oropouche

Oropouche, classified as an arbovirus, is often mistaken for other similar viruses, like Zika, dengue, chikungunya and malaria, according to the CDC.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints and chills.

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Some may develop a rash that begins on the torso and spreads to other body parts.

Symptoms usually begin within four to eight days of being bitten, and last for three to six days.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, headache, muscle aches, stiff joints and chills. (iStock)

“Symptoms can abate and reoccur,” Siegel noted.

In severe cases, patients may develop meningitis, encephalitis or other “neuroinvasive” diseases, the CDC stated.

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For those patients, symptoms can include intense headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, lethargy, stiff neck and involuntary eye movements.

“Around 4% of patients develop [neurologic symptoms] after the first febrile illness,” Siegel said.

Treatment and prevention

Most people who contract Oropouche will recover on their own without any long-term effects, the CDC stated.

“There are no vaccines for prevention and no treatments,” Siegel said.

The best means of prevention is to avoid bites from midges and mosquitoes, according to experts.

“Patients who develop more severe symptoms should be hospitalized for close observation and supportive treatment,” the CDC stated. (iStock)

“People are advised to take preventive measures, including the use of repellents, clothing that covers legs and arms, and fine mesh mosquito nets, and to take extra precautions during outbreaks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women,” the Pan American Health Organization advised in an alert.

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Supportive care can include rest, fluids and medication to reduce fever and alleviate pain.

“Patients who develop more severe symptoms should be hospitalized for close observation and supportive treatment,” the agency stated.

“As testing and surveillance for Oropouche virus disease increase in the Americas, reports of cases from additional countries are expected.”

Those who are experiencing symptoms and have risk factors can contact their local health department for testing.

“Clinicians in these areas where importation has occurred may not be familiar with this infection and need to be alert to its possibility,” Dr. Amesh Adalja, M.D., an infectious disease expert at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security in Baltimore, told Fox News Digital.

Fox News Digital reached out to the CDC for comment.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

US surgeon general advisory names parent stress an ‘urgent public health issue’

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August 28, 2024

AMERICANS ARE HAVING FEWER BABIES AS BIRTH RATE HITS HISTORIC LOW, CDC REVEALS

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a public health advisory on Wednesday addressing the mental health and well-being of parents.

The advisory, which is reserved for “significant public health challenges that require the nation’s immediate awareness and action,” discussed various factors that cause stress for parents and noted an urgent need for support.

“Parents have a profound impact on the health of our children and the health of society,” Murthy wrote in a statement posted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

“Yet parents and caregivers today face tremendous pressures, from familiar stressors such as worrying about their kids’ health and safety and financial concerns, to new challenges like navigating technology and social media, a youth mental health crisis, and an epidemic of loneliness that has hit young people the hardest,” he went on.

“As a father of two kids, I feel these pressures, too.”

Dr. Vivek H. Murthy speaks onstage at The Archewell Foundation Parents’ Summit: Mental Wellness in the Digital Age at Hudson Yards on Oct. 10, 2023, in New York City. (Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for Project Healthy Minds)

In the 30-page advisory, Murthy called for a “fundamental shift” in prioritizing the mental health and well-being of parents.

“I am also outlining policies, programs and individual actions we can all take to support parents and caregivers,” he said.

GRANDPARENTS MAY HAVE SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON A MOM’S MENTAL HEALTH, STUDY FINDS

Thirty percent of parents reported high levels of stress in the past month, compared to 20% of other adults, according to the advisory.

Severe stress can have “a deleterious effect,” Murthy wrote — as 41% of parents reported that most days, they experience so much stress that they cannot function, while 48% said their stress is “completely overwhelming” on most days.

What’s causing this stress?

The COVID-19 pandemic was cited as a contributor to stressors among parents and caregivers, as well as financial stability, concerns for health and safety, management of tech and social media, parental loneliness, cultural pressures and their children’s future.

School safety concerns among parents are particularly high, as firearm-related injury has become the leading cause of death among children and adolescents in the U.S.

Financial stability, concerns for health and safety, management of tech and social media, and uncertainty about children’s futures are among the stressors experienced by parents. (iStock)

Many parents also face circumstances such as family or community violence, poverty, and racism and discrimination, all of which can impact mental health.

“Both maternal and paternal mental health conditions are shown to impact the well-being of children,” the advisory noted.

PSYCHOLOGISTS REVEAL 7 WAYS PARENTS CAN DRIVE HAPPINESS BY HELPING KIDS FIND THEIR PURPOSE

“Maternal mental health conditions have been found to significantly impact a child’s well-being and environment, and can serve as a critical determinant of child outcomes.”

What can be done?

The surgeon general intends to “take steps to mitigate stress at every stage” for parents and caregivers, he said.

Murthy’s advisory encouraged governments and employers to establish programs to ensure that parents have access to affordable mental health care, paid family and medical leave, and other family services.

“Both maternal and paternal mental health conditions are shown to impact the well-being of children,” according to the advisory. (iStock)

The surgeon general also encouraged schools and communities to provide support services and groups to help parents manage stress.

Robin Hilmantel, senior director of editorial strategy and growth at What to Expect, part of Everyday Health, told Fox News Digital that this advisory “feels like a long-overdue acknowledgment of what has been obvious for a while now: Parents are struggling.”

Thirty percent of U.S. parents reported high levels of stress in the past month.

A What to Expect survey of more than 3,000 women found that more than two-thirds of moms (68%) experience anxiety, while 79% of Gen Z moms reported the same.

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“There are a lot of reasons why being a parent today is so challenging — parenthood is isolating, as 76% of moms say they don’t have enough support in the form of a ‘village,'” said Hilmantel, who is based in North Carolina.

daughter holds dads hand while walking into school

School safety concerns are high among parents, the advisory said. (iStock)

“There’s also a culture of comparison for today’s parents — 83% of Gen Z moms say they feel pressure to be a perfect parent,” she added.

Some other top parental stressors, according to the survey, include safety, lack of time for themselves, finances and children’s development.

Eighty-three percent of Gen Z moms say they feel pressure to be a perfect parent.

“Remember that you’re not alone if you feel overwhelming stress; other parents are dealing with their own stressors,” Hilmantel said.

“What you see on social media is often a highlight reel, so you definitely shouldn’t feel bad about your parenting based on anything you see online.”

The expert suggested that parents should try to “cultivate a network of friends, family and acquaintances.”

mom stressed out by kids jumping on couch

There is “no shame in directly asking family and friends for help,” one parenting expert said. (iStock)

“Parents can add people to their village by attending in-person meetups where they can connect with other new parents, and by joining online communities where parents can openly discuss anything they’re struggling with,” she said.

Hilmantel added that there is “no shame in directly asking family and friends for help.”

Angelica Stabile is a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital.

Beware: Opting in can hijack your printer

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August 28, 2024

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HP is a household name when it comes to printers, but the company employs questionable practices to maximize profits. Much like Apple, HP aims to create a closed ecosystem, forcing you to use only its ink with its printers, especially if you opt into HP+.

Recently, I was at my in-laws’ home and signed up for HP+ for them through the app only to discover that once you accept, the printer firmware is updated permanently. There’s no way to undo it, and you’re locked into using HP ink cartridges to print anything.

It blocked me from printing on my in-laws’ printer because they were using third-party cartridges. Below, I get into the whole saga about HP+, how I wasted hours trying to find a workaround only to learn there’s no way out, and how HP has been hit with multiple lawsuits over this.

A man using a printer (HP)

What is HP+ and why you may want to avoid it

HP+ is an optional service available with select HP printers. It’s free and offers cloud connectivity, an extended warranty and more. In HP’s own words, “HP+ is an innovative smart printing system that comes with select HP printers. It offers several benefits, including up to three months of free Instant Ink with compatible printers.”

It might sound harmless initially, but when you dig into the details, you’ll find that the subscription blocks you from using ink other than HP’s. Plus, it requires a constant internet connection just to work. HP+ was introduced in 2020, with the HP LaserJet M200 Series and the HP OfficeJet Pro 8000e and 9000e series being among the first supported printers.

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Printer on a desk in an office setting (HP)

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Once you install HP+ is there a way to reverse or opt out?

The best solution is to avoid signing up for HP+ in the first place, but unfortunately that wasn’t an option for me. So, I called customer support, hoping to find a solution. However, even after spending over an hour on the phone, I didn’t get one. The customer service rep told me that once you sign up, there’s no turning back. They then said the only option to fix what had been done and allow my in-laws to return to using their third-party cartridges is to send them back the printer.

On a related note, normally you can use any brand’s ink with your printer, which makes things easier and more affordable because you can choose ink that fits your budget. A while back, I wrote a guide about the cheapest printer ink and how to make cartridges last longer. You might want to check it out to get the most out of your printer.

Back to my story. HP told me they were willing to replace my printer with a new one (without HP+), but I’d have to cover the shipping costs. As another option, they said they’d send me four HP cartridges – just once, though – so it’s not exactly a long-term fix. We opted for the four HP cartridges for the time being while we consider replacing the printer with an entirely other brand.

What a headache.

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A printer on a table in an office setting (HP)

MASSIVE DELL DATA BREACH HITS 49 MILLION USERS. WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR PRIVACY AND SECURITY

The HP printer ink issue is now in court

HP+ hasn’t just been a headache for me, many others have had issues, too, and some even took HP to court. One lawsuit filed by Mobile Emergency Housing Corp., Performance Automotive & Tire Center and David Justin Lynch has reached a settlement in principle, and HP is working on finalizing the agreement.

The lawsuit claimed that HP pushed a software update to its printers, making them incompatible with other brands’ ink cartridges. It is looking to represent anyone nationwide who had an HP Color LaserJet Pro M254, HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M280, HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M281 or any other model affected by HP malware transmissions, reported Top Class Actions.

Another lawsuit, which kicked off in January, makes a similar claim. It focuses on a firmware update from late 2022 to early 2023 that allegedly disabled printers if non-HP cartridges were used.

We reached out to HP for a response to our article but did not hear back before our deadline.

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TOP PRINTERS FOR 2024

Kurt’s key takeaway

The HP+ service just doesn’t make sense to me as a consumer, and it won’t to anyone else who values their money. If I can get the same ink for cheaper, or if I already have third-party ink on hand, why would I spend extra cash on HP-branded ink? If I’m paying for the printer hardware, I should be able to use it however I want, not as the company dictates. As a word of caution, avoid signing up for HP+ if you’re looking for more choices in ink options.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

Do you think printer manufacturers should have the right to restrict which ink cartridges you use or should that choice be up to the consumer? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Experts warn AI could generate ‘major epidemics or even pandemics’ — but how soon?

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August 28, 2024

ARMY PUSHES NEW STRATEGIES TO SAFEGUARD TROOPS UNDER AI IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Experts researching advancements in artificial intelligence are now warning that AI models could create the next “enhanced pathogens capable of causing major epidemics or even pandemics.”

The declaration was made in a paper published in the journal Science by co-authors from Johns Hopkins University, Stanford University and Fordham University, who say that AI models are being “trained on or [are] capable of meaningfully manipulating substantial quantities of biological data, from speeding up drug and vaccine design to improving crop yields.”

“But as with any powerful new technology, such biological models will also pose considerable risks. Because of their general-purpose nature, the same biological model able to design a benign viral vector to deliver gene therapy could be used to design a more pathogenic virus capable of evading vaccine-induced immunity,” researchers wrote in their abstract.

“Voluntary commitments among developers to evaluate biological models’ potential dangerous capabilities are meaningful and important but cannot stand alone,” the paper continued. “We propose that national governments, including the United States, pass legislation and set mandatory rules that will prevent advanced biological models from substantially contributing to large-scale dangers, such as the creation of novel or enhanced pathogens capable of causing major epidemics or even pandemics.”

People stand in line in Washington, D.C. to receive a coronavirus test

People line up to receive coronavirus tests in Washington, D.C., in December 2021. A new paper published in Science is warning about the potential risks of biological AI models. (Ting Shen/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Although today’s AI models likely do not “substantially contribute” to biological risks, the “essential ingredients to create highly concerning advanced biological models may already exist or soon will,” Time quoted the paper’s authors as saying.

They reportedly recommend that governments create a “battery of tests” that biological AI models must undertake before being released to the public – and then from there officials can determine how restricted access to the models should be.

“We need to plan now,” Anita Cicero, the deputy director at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and one of the co-authors of the paper, said according to Time. “Some structured government oversight and requirements will be necessary in order to reduce risks of especially powerful tools in the future.”

Cicero reportedly added that biological risks from AI models could become a reality “within the next 20 years, and maybe even much less” without the proper oversight.

ELON MUSK ENDORSES CALIFORNIA AI REGULATION BILL: ‘TOUGH CALL’

The paper’s authors write that “the same biological model able to design a benign viral vector to deliver gene therapy could be used to design a more pathogenic virus capable of evading vaccine-induced immunity.” (iStock)

“If the question is can AI be used to engineer pandemics, 100% percent. And as far as how far down the road we should be concerned about it, I think that AI is advancing at a rate that most people are not prepared for,” Paul Powers, an AI expert and CEO of Physna – a company that helps computers analyze 3D models and geometric objects – told Fox News Digital.

“The thing is that it’s not just governments and large businesses that have access to these increasingly powerful capabilities, it’s individuals and small businesses as well,” he continued, but noted that “the problem with regulation here is that one, as much as everyone wants a global set of rules for this, the reality is that it is enforced nationally. Secondly is that regulation doesn’t move at the speed of AI. Regulation can’t even keep up with technology as it has been, with traditional speed.”

“What they are proposing that you do is have the government approve certain AI training models and certain AI applications. But the reality is how do you police that?” Powers said.

A child receives the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, on May 13, 2021. (Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images)

“There are certain nucleic acids that are essentially the building blocks for any potential real pathogen or virus,” Powers added, saying, “I would start there… I would start on really trying to crack down on who can access the building blocks first.”

Greg Norman is a reporter at Fox News Digital.

Fox News AI Newsletter: Elon Musk endorses California AI regulation bill

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August 28, 2024

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Welcome to Fox News’ Artificial Intelligence newsletter with the latest AI technology advancements.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:

– Elon Musk endorses California AI regulation bill: ‘Tough call’

– Rapper will.i.am. debuts AI radio app with digital personas, curated content

– How Meta AI can be your new digital assistant on the tech giants platforms

Elon Musk, co-founder of Tesla and SpaceX and owner of X Holdings Corp., speaks at the Milken Institute’s Global Conference at the Beverly Hilton Hotel,on May 6, 2024, in Beverly Hills, California. (Apu Gomes/Getty Images)

‘TOUGH CALL’: Tech billionaire Elon Musk has said that California should pass a controversial bill that would regulate artificial intelligence through having tech companies and AI developers be responsible for safety testing and implementing safeguards against cyberattacks.

‘NEVER TIRED’: While many musicians and celebrities have spoken out against A.I., rapper wiil.i.am is getting in on the technology, announcing a new artificial intelligence app called Raidio.FYI.

Meta’s AI chatbot (Meta)

AI HANDY HELPER : Meta’s artificial intelligence chatbot, powered by Llama 3, is designed to make your online experience smoother and more enjoyable across platforms like Facebook, Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp. Imagine having a helpful assistant that can quickly answer your questions, provide useful information and even help you create content — all right at your fingertips.

CREEPY COMPETITOR: If you’ve ever found yourself without a partner for a game of pingpong, you might be excited to hear that technology has come to the rescue. Imagine having a robot that can rally with you, challenge your skills and help you improve your game — all without needing a human opponent.

Table tennis robot playing a game of ping-pong with a person (DeepMind Robotics)

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Stay up to date on the latest AI technology advancements and learn about the challenges and opportunities AI presents now and for the future with Fox News here.

This article was written by Fox News staff.

Your next takeout burger could arrive at your doorstep via robot delivery

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August 28, 2024

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So, you’re hit with a craving for a mouthwatering Shake Shack burger. Instead of jumping in your car and braving the traffic, you simply grab your phone and place an order through an app. But here’s the twist: Rather than a delivery driver showing up, a friendly little robot rolls right up to your doorstep with your order.

This futuristic scenario is becoming a reality in Los Angeles, where Shake Shack has teamed up with Serve Robotics to deliver meals using autonomous delivery robots.

With this innovative partnership, customers can enjoy a seamless dining experience right from the comfort of their homes.

Autonomous delivery robot (Serve Robotics)

A new era of food delivery

These autonomous delivery robots, which look like upright cooler boxes on wheels, are equipped with cutting-edge sensors, artificial intelligence and GPS technology. This means they can navigate the bustling streets of L.A. all on their own, ensuring your food arrives hot and fresh. This partnership is part of Serve Robotics’ ambitious goal to deploy 2,000 of these robots across the U.S. by 2025.

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Autonomous delivery robot (Serve Robotics)

FORGET DRONES, THIS STREET-SMART ROBOT COULD BE THE FUTURE OF LOCAL DELIVERIES

The tech behind these delivery robots

Let’s dive a bit deeper into the technology that powers these autonomous delivery robots. Serve Robotics has achieved level 4 autonomy, meaning these robots can operate without any human intervention in designated areas. They are equipped with a variety of sensors, including Lidar, ultrasonic sensors and cameras, which help them navigate busy sidewalks safely.

These robots can carry up to 50 pounds of food and travel 25 miles on a single charge. The cargo compartment is designed to keep your items secure and can be unlocked with a simple passcode sent to your phone. With advanced features like automatic emergency braking and collision avoidance, these robots are built with safety in mind, ensuring a reliable delivery every time.

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Autonomous delivery robot (Serve Robotics)

ROBOTS TAKE THE WHEEL AS SAN FRANCISCO OPENS STREETS TO DRIVERLESS TECH

How the robotic delivery service works

So, how does this robotic delivery magic happen? It’s simple. When you order from select Shake Shack locations through the Uber Eats app, you’ll see an option to choose a robot for delivery if one is available.

Once you place your order, you can track the robot’s journey in real time on the app. When the robot arrives at your location, it will send you a passcode. Just enter it to unlock the storage compartment and enjoy your meal. It’s like having a mini delivery assistant that doesn’t need a tip.

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Autonomous delivery robot app (Serve Robotics)

CARMEN THE ROBOT COMPANION CAN BOOST YOUR MEMORY AND COGNITION

4 benefits of robotic delivery

The introduction of these autonomous robots comes with a host of benefits that make your dining experience even better.

1. Efficiency and convenience: These robots are designed for optimal route planning, ensuring that your food arrives quickly and at the perfect temperature. No more lukewarm fries.

2. Contactless and secure: With the ongoing focus on hygiene, the robots provide a fully contactless delivery option, keeping your food safe and secure during transit.

3. Cost-effective: Robotic delivery not only lowers operational costs for restaurants but also means you won’t have to tip the robot, saving you a few bucks.

4. Eco-friendly: These all-electric robots contribute to a cleaner environment by reducing noise and congestion in urban areas, along with minimizing the carbon footprint typically associated with traditional delivery methods.

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A customer receiving her Shake Shack order from an autonomous delivery robot (Serve Robotics)

Strategic partnerships and future expansion

This partnership between Shake Shack and Serve Robotics highlights the power of strategic alliances in the tech and food industries. Serve has built a solid relationship with Uber Eats, which has been utilizing these autonomous delivery solutions since 2022. With backing from Nvidia and a growing number of successful deliveries, Serve Robotics is set to lead the charge in transforming how we think about food delivery.

Shake Shack’s involvement in this initiative reflects its commitment to innovation and enhancing guest experiences. As Steph So, senior vice president of digital experience at Shake Shack, said, “In line with our vision of enlightened hospitality, this partnership highlights our commitment to leveraging innovation to enhance guest experiences both in and out of Shack.”

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Autonomous delivery robot (Serve Robotics)

Kurt’s key takeaways

The partnership between Shake Shack and Serve Robotics is a big development in the world of food delivery. Just imagine this: you order your favorite burger, and instead of a delivery driver, a friendly little robot shows up at your doorstep. It’s not only super convenient but also adds a fun twist to the usual delivery experience. With all the benefits – like speedy service, contactless delivery and being eco-friendly – these robots are truly changing the game. So, the next time you’re in Los Angeles and craving a Shake Shack treat, keep an eye out for that little robot rolling your way. It might just be the most memorable delivery you’ve ever had.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover .

What are your thoughts on having a robot deliver your food? Do you think it’s a fun innovation or a step too far? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Shingles infection is linked to risk of cognitive decline, says new study

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August 28, 2024

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Getting shingles just once could increase the risk of long-term confusion and memory loss, a new study has found.

The study, led by Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, linked the virus to greater chances of “subjective cognitive decline,” according to a Harvard press release.

The findings were published in the journal Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy on Aug. 14.

“Subjective cognitive decline” captures early changes in cognition that are noticed before evidence of cognitive impairment shows up on standard neuropsychological tests, explained study author Sharon Curhan, M.D., a physician and epidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

It was also associated with a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.

Getting shingles just once could increase the risk of long-term confusion and memory loss, a new study has found. (iStock)

“Shingles may contribute to dementia risk through neuroinflammation, damage to cerebral blood vessels (cerebral vasculopathy), or direct neuronal damage,” Curhan told Fox News Digital.

In this particular study, the researchers analyzed data from three large cohorts of more than 150,000 women and men over a 13-year period.

The data came from the Nurses’ Health Study, the Nurses’ Health Study II and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, according to Curhan.

“We were surprised by the large magnitude and long duration of the increased risk.”

“There was a suggestion that the magnitude of the elevated risk may be greater among those who were not vaccinated with the shingles vaccine,” she said.

The researchers determined that shingles was associated with a greater than 20% higher long-term risk of subjective cognitive decline.

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“We were surprised by the large magnitude and long duration of the increased risk, and [the fact] that it may be different in women and men,” Curhan told Fox News Digital.

The elevated risk was even higher among those who were genetic carriers of APOE e4 — the gene that increases the risk for Alzheimer’s disease — than men who were not APOE e4 carriers, she noted, but this was not the case in women.

Known medically as herpes zoster, shingles is a painful, blistering rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. (iStock)

Although he noted that this is an observational study and does not prove cause and effect, Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News, said he believes “the observation is real.”

“Shingles is a reactivation of a virus that has been hiding inside nerves,” he told Fox News Digital. “It causes inflammation — and when inflammation involves the brain, it is associated with cognitive decline, which can lead to Alzheimer’s.”

DEMENTIA-DEPRESSION CONNECTION: EARLY SADNESS CAN LEAD TO LATER COGNITIVE ISSUES, STUDY FINDS

Previous studies have also looked at the association of herpes zoster and other viruses with Alzheimer’s and the other diseases that cause dementia, according to Heather M. Snyder, PhD, senior vice president of medical and scientific operations at the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago.

“It is unclear if the virus is present in individuals because of changes associated with the diseases that cause cognitive decline, changes of the immune system, or some sort of cause and effect,” Snyder, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital.

“When inflammation involves the brain, it is associated with cognitive decline.”

Previous research has also shown that a history of shingles is also associated with higher long-term risk of a major cardiovascular event, such as a stroke or heart attack, which could last for many years after infection, Curhan warned.

What to know about shingles

Shingles — medically known as herpes zoster — is a painful, blistering rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the same virus that causes chickenpox, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The rash and blisters usually scab over within seven to 10 days.

The infection is common, affecting about one in every three people in the U.S. in their lifetime.

In addition to the rash, which typically appears as a stripe around one side of the body or face, symptoms can include fever, chills, headache and upset stomach. (iStock)

“A majority of adults have herpes zoster hidden in their brain cells, from prior infection at some previous point in their life,” said Snyder.

In addition to the rash — which typically appears as a stripe around one side of the body or face — symptoms can include fever, chills, headache and upset stomach, according to the CDC.

In some cases (10% to 18%), the virus can lead to complications like long-term nerve pain.

One in every three people in the U.S. will have shingles in their lifetime.

Other rare but serious adverse effects can include vision loss, bacterial infections, pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), impaired hearing and death, per the CDC.

These complications are most likely to affect those with compromised immune systems.

Antiviral treatments and pain relief medications are available for those with the condition.

Means of prevention

These findings show the “long-term implications” of shingles and highlight the importance of public health efforts to prevent the infection, Curhan noted.

The vaccination has been shown to be 90% effective at preventing the infection and long-term nerve pain in adults age 50 and over who have healthy immune systems, according to the CDC.

Shingles vaccination has been shown to be 90% effective at preventing the infection and long-term nerve pain in adults age 50 and over who have healthy immune systems, according to the CDC. (iStock)

“Given the growing number of Americans at risk for this painful and often disabling disease and the availability of an effective vaccine, shingles vaccination could provide a valuable opportunity to reduce the burden of subsequent health issues due to shingles, such as chronic pain (postherpetic neuralgia), cardiovascular complications, or cognitive decline and dementia,” said Curhan.

The CDC recommends routine shingles vaccination for people age 50 and older, regardless of whether they have had a prior episode of shingles or have had a previous vaccine.

CDC RECOMMENDS ADDITIONAL COVID VACCINE FOR ADULTS 65 AND OVER

“Anyone who may be eligible for the vaccine or who may have questions or concerns about vaccination should consult with a health care provider,” said Curhan.

Siegel echoed the merits of vaccination.

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“This study adds to the growing group of evidence that the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is important for all those over 50 (who have had chicken pox or the varicella vaccine) to decrease the risk of reactivation of the shingles virus and/or complications of active infection,” he said.

Potential limitations

This was an observational study that primarily focused on a White, highly educated population, Curhan noted — which means future studies in other populations could strengthen the research.

“Also, we did not have information on vaccination status in the full study population, so we could only examine this relation among a subset,” she added.

“A majority of adults have herpes zoster hidden in their brain cells, from prior infection at some previous point in their life,” a doctor said. (iStock)

Much of the study period took place before the shingles vaccine became widely available, Curhan said — and even once it was introduced, the uptake was generally low.

The more recent vaccine was not available until after the study.

“As uptake of the newer shingles vaccine increases, additional studies that evaluate whether vaccination status influences the relation of shingles and risk of cognitive decline would be informative,” Curhan said.

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“Therefore, we are currently collecting this information among our participants and hope to conduct these studies in the future.”

Tennessee woman awarded $3.45M after she was disfigured by ‘unnecessary’ surgery

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August 28, 2024

WORKING THE NIGHT SHIFT MAY CAUSE DANGEROUS HEALTH CONDITIONS, LONG-TERM RISK OF DISEASE

A Tennessee woman won a $3.45 million lawsuit after she was left with a “completely unnecessary” and “permanent” disfigurement from surgery.

Kellianne Goodnight said doctors at the Chattanooga Skin and Cancer Clinic on Shallowford Road in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 2017 removed several layers of her skin just above the bridge of her nose while performing a Mohr’s surgery. The doctors allegedly told her the layers were filled with cancer cells, but they were not.

In the Mohr’s surgery, the doctors would remove a layer of tissue at the crease of Goodnight’s nose and face and examine it microscopically to figure out if there were cancer cells, according to the lawsuit, WZTV reported.

If cancer cells are found, the doctors would remove another layer of tissue and examine it, and repeat this process until they found a layer that did not have cancer cells.

A Tennessee woman won a $3.45 million lawsuit after she was left with a “completely unnecessary” and “permanent” disfigurement from a surgery. (iStock)

Doctor Mark G. Tusa and nurse practitioner Sharon Ann Brown told Goodnight that they had to remove a total of seven layers of tissue. But a third-party examination of the tissues found that none of the layers removed had any sign of skin cancer, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit also said Tusa “never told the Plaintiff she had an additional or changed diagnosis.”

Later, after a followup procedure that lasted roughly eight hours, Goodnight specifically asked for amplifying information. She was informed that the cancer had spread, was the size of a baseball and was located under her nose and mouth.

TENNESSEE MAN ALLEGEDLY KILLED WOMAN BEFORE LIGHTING CHURCH ABLAZE, SAID HE WAS ‘GOING TO GET GOD’S WATER’

Based on opinions that the pathologist provided, Tusa made a misinterpretation that the layers contained basal cell carcinoma, when they did not.

“Dr. Tusa created a huge, deep, irreparable and completely unnecessary crater on Kelliane Goodnight’s face,” the lawsuit said.

The procedure left Goodnight with “permanent disfigurement of her face as well as structural damage to the muscles which underlie her face,” according to the lawsuit.

“The unnecessary wound created by Dr. Tusa has required several surgeries, and it is anticipated that she will require several more surgeries in the future to attempt to correct this medical error,” it continues.

The procedure left Goodnight with “permanent disfigurement of her face as well as structural damage to the muscles which underlie her face,” the lawsuit said. (iStock)

For months after the surgery, Goodnight “could not go out in public without a mask because of the embarrassment and humiliation of having a devastating and horrendous wound created on her face.”

The lawsuit also said Goodnight lost her job at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee due to the procedure.

Last week, Hamilton County Circuit Court Judge Michael Sharp ruled in favor of Goodnight and awarded her nearly $3.45 million, including $800,000 for past pain and suffering, $500,000 for future pain and suffering, $1,500,000 for permanent impairment and disfigurement, $100,000 for the past loss of the ability to enjoy life, $400,000 for the future ability to enjoy life and nearly $150,000 for past medical care and services.

38 days: VP Harris refuses to reveal policy positions, give news conferences or interviews

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August 28, 2024

KAMALA HARRIS GRANTS FIRST INTERVIEW TO CNN AFTER WEEKS OF AVOIDING PRESS, TO BE JOINED BY TIM WALZ

Vice President Kamala Harris’ interview drought is about to come to an end after 38 days and counting since she became the Democratic Party’s de facto nominee.

Under pressure to sit down for a substantive interview after weeks of stonewalling, she agreed to a sit-down with CNN’s Dana Bash on Thursday. She will be joined in the interview, which will be taped that day and air Thursday night, by running mate Tim Walz.

During one of her rare and brief press gaggles since taking over the nomination from President Biden, Harris insisted on Aug. 9 that she wanted “to get an interview scheduled before the end of the month.” It took another 18 days for one to finally be announced.

Vice President Kamala Harris has gone more than five weeks without holding a press conference since becoming the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. (Reuters/Kevin Wurm)

As to when she’ll do a formal press conference, that day may never come.

“You will not see one press conference from her in the next 75 days until Election Day,” Fox News contributor Joe Concha predicted last week.

Former President Trump has sought to highlight the contrast in media availability between the two, sitting for several lengthy interviews in recent weeks and also holding a pair of press conferences.

Harris has famously struggled when faced with tough questions in the past, often appearing to laugh uncomfortably or offering jumbled and confusing answers.

In 2021, Harris struggled to explain a strategy for securing the border and infamously joked she hadn’t been to Europe, either, when NBC News anchor Lester Holt asked why she hadn’t visited the southern border.

HOW LONG WILL THE KAMALA HARRIS HONEYMOON IN THE POLLS AGAINST DONALD TRUMP LAST?

Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio. (Getty Images)

In 2023, The New York Times reported that she “all but went into a bunker for about a year, avoiding many interviews out of what aides said was a fear of making mistakes and disappointing Mr. Biden” after the “disastrous” sit-down with Holt.

Whether Bash will drill down on Harris’ numerous policy shifts from 2020 to 2024 remains to be seen. Harris has turned the 2024 race around since replacing Biden, giving Democrats renewed hopes they can keep the White House after things looked grim for their party after Biden’s debate debacle.

The Wall Street Journal editorial board on Friday wrote that her Democratic nomination acceptance speech lacked substance.

“Harris introduced herself to the American public on Thursday, and her presentation was much like this week’s Democratic convention: well delivered, confident and optimistic, and mostly devoid of policy substance. Whether she can keep this up, unexplained and unexposed, for the next 12 weeks will determine whether she becomes America’s 47th President,” the WSJ editorial board wrote.

The WSJ noted a variety of “falsehoods,” peppered throughout her scripted speech, including misleading attacks on Trump regarding abortion rights, Medicare and Social Security.

FORMER CLINTON AIDE PAUL BEGALA DEFENDS HARRIS AVOIDING THE MEDIA: ‘WHO CARES?’

Critics have noticed that Vice President Kamala Harris hasn’t held a formal press conference since President Biden ended his re-election campaign. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

“Harris attempted to lay out a vision for her Presidency, but it was mostly empty platitudes. She will provide ‘opportunity,’ though she didn’t say how. She will solve the housing crisis, without saying how or explaining why there is a crisis on her watch. And she will reduce prices, without a repeat of her recent proposal to impose price controls,” the WSJ editorial board wrote.

Harris would likely be asked how much she wants to be linked to the Biden record in a serious interview.

Other topics she would likely have to discuss include several key foreign policy issues, such as Israel and Ukraine.