Tiny coffins, far too many of them, are a heartbreaking reality in the Congo. Measles, a disease preventable with a readily available vaccine, is claiming the lives of thousands of children. In 2023 alone, over 311,000 cases were reported, tragically resulting in over 6,000 child deaths; these were children who succumbed to fever and rash, their young lives ending far too soon. While the number of cases has decreased this year, to approximately 97,000, the mortality rate has alarmingly increased, with over 2,100 children losing their lives. The reasons behind this increased lethality remain unclear, adding another layer of complexity to this devastating situation.… Continue reading
I can’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu as the news breaks that Sweden has confirmed a case of mpox, the first reported infection of this strain outside of Africa. It seems like we’re living through a never-ending cycle of pandemics and health crises. Each time we think we’re out of the woods, another threat emerges, making it hard to catch a break. The more contagious and virulent nature of this new strain is definitely cause for concern, and it’s crucial that we take the necessary precautions to prevent further spread.
The big question on everyone’s mind is how did the Swedish case contract the illness?… Continue reading
As I sit here, reading the headlines about scientists warning of a potential bird flu pandemic unfolding in slow motion, I can’t help but feel a sense of deja vu. Just when we thought we had navigated our way through one global health crisis, here we are on the brink of another. The specter of Covid-19 still looms large in our collective memory, a stark reminder of the devastating impact that a pandemic can have on our world.
The comments and reactions swirling around this latest threat to public health are a mix of anxiety, skepticism, and even dark humor. Some express concerns about the ability of our healthcare system to handle another crisis, while others joke about stockpiling toilet paper and finding ways to pass the time during another lockdown.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker