The Lawrence County School System in Tennessee has implemented a new attendance policy that does not accept doctor’s notes for absences, aiming to instill a strong work ethic in students. Under this policy, all absences are considered unexcused, with exemptions only for specific circumstances like family deaths or religious observances. The policy emphasizes the importance of attendance for student achievement and future financial success, even as childhood illnesses rise. Students with chronic absenteeism will automatically fail subjects, reflecting the district’s commitment to controlling student attendance.
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Sources indicate that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intends to replace the 16-member cancer screening and HIV medication task force due to concerns of the group being too “woke.” This reported action follows a trend, as Kennedy previously removed all members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The decision is linked to the task force’s use of terms like “pregnant persons” and references to “structural racism” in recent publications. Kennedy’s actions reflect a broader pattern of similar moves within other Trump administration departments.
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Following the halt of US aid, Zimbabwe is facing a resurgence of malaria, with cases soaring in 2025. Funding cuts impacted essential control programs, including the distribution of mosquito nets and research initiatives, crippling the country’s efforts. The Ministry of Health reported a sharp increase in both cases and deaths, indicating a reversal of prior progress. Experts emphasize the critical need for sustained funding to maintain prevention and treatment efforts, while also noting the potential for the country to mobilize its own resources to combat the disease.
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Anti-vaccine activist Brian Hooker claims to have contracted measles in west Texas and then traveled to California without notifying health officials. This raises concerns about potential further spread of the highly contagious disease, especially within anti-vaccine communities. Hooker, despite experiencing symptoms, did not seek confirmation testing and instead utilized alternative treatments, potentially spreading misinformation about the illness. Medical experts warn that Hooker’s actions could lead to an ongoing outbreak, as they stress the importance of contact tracing and vaccination to contain the spread of measles.
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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fires two top deputies at Department of Health and Human Services, and the news has generated a buzz, to put it mildly. Reports indicate that Heather Flick Melanson, Kennedy’s chief of staff, and Hannah Anderson, the deputy chief of staff for policy, are no longer with the department. While the official reasons remain unclear, the circumstances and implications are sparking a lot of speculation and concern.
These departures aren’t just about losing staff; they represent a significant shift, especially when viewed through the lens of the current political climate. The individuals let go were not typical career government employees, but rather, individuals with strong ties to the MAGA movement.… Continue reading
Alberta’s measles outbreak has surpassed the total number of cases reported in the United States this year, reaching 1,314 cases as of early July. Health officials are concerned about the rapid rate of transmission and the potential for underreporting, particularly in light of summer gatherings and the upcoming school year. Experts are calling for mass vaccination clinics and targeted campaigns, particularly for children and those in high-risk groups. Despite the severity of the situation, the Alberta government maintains that its response is effective, citing expanded vaccination clinics and outreach efforts.
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Recent studies reveal a sharp increase in nicotine poisonings among young children, with 134,663 cases reported between 2010 and 2023. A major contributor to this rise is the increasing popularity of nicotine pouches like Zyn, which saw a 763% surge in poisoning incidents from 2020 to 2023. These pouches, often flavored and containing significant nicotine levels, pose a serious risk to children, with two fatalities reported, and many other cases resulting in nausea, vomiting or other serious health concerns. Experts recommend storing all nicotine products out of children’s reach and talking to teenagers about the potential dangers.
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A recent study analyzed emergency vaccination programs implemented for five major infectious diseases, revealing a significant impact on mortality rates. The research, spanning 23 years and encompassing 210 incidents across 49 countries, found that vaccine rollouts reduced deaths by approximately 60% and prevented a similar number of infections. Moreover, the study highlighted substantial economic benefits, estimating savings of around $32 billion, primarily through averted deaths and disabilities. These findings underscore the crucial role of vaccination in controlling outbreaks and mitigating their devastating consequences.
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Recent data indicates a potential summer wave of COVID-19 is underway, with estimated growth in 25 states, particularly in the Southeast, Southern, and West Coast regions. The CDC’s analysis suggests a pattern of biannual surges, peaking in late summer and winter due to genetic changes in the virus. Simultaneously, health officials are monitoring an increase in parvovirus B19 cases, prompting warnings and recommendations for protective measures, especially for pregnant women. Chicago health officials noted the highest percentage of parvovirus B19-associated emergency room visits in years.
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Coconino County, Arizona, officials have confirmed a death from pneumonic plague. The patient, who presented at Flagstaff Medical Center and died the same day, received initial treatment, but did not recover. This marks the first pneumonic plague death in the county since 2007. Public health officials are investigating the case and have clarified that the recent death is unrelated to a recent prairie dog die-off, which can be an indicator of plague presence.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood