Penicillin, the world’s first antibiotic, transformed medicine in the early 1940s. Yet, in the beginning, production was so costly that only small batches could be made. Albert Alexander, the first patient treated with penicillin, died from its insufficient quantity.

During and after World War II, production methods improved, sparking a medical revolution. Today, many are hoping for a similar breakthrough with sickle cell disease. Gene therapies offer a promising solution, but several significant obstacles prevent treatment access.

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On average, office employees spend up to 15 hours a day sitting. For decades, studies have shown that prolonged sitting increases health risks. It’s linked to higher rates of mortality and cardiovascular disease in both men and women.

As a result, standing desks have been proposed as a healthier alternative to sitting. Many have turned to this technology to improve wellness at work. In fact, the height-adjustable desk market was valued at $5.5 billion in 2023. Market value will reach over $10 billion by 2034, growing nearly 6% year-over-year.

Yet, new research suggests that standing may not improve health outcomes. In fact, standing for too long could come with its own risks.

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Egypt is the 44th country to be certified malaria-free, and the first to achieve this since 2010. Egypt’s certification marks one more step in the global effort to eradicate malaria.

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Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s flu shot is seeing its first major change in over a decade. Since 2013, flu shots have included four viral strains. But global travel restrictions reduced spread and may have eliminated one of them. As travel resumes, influenza vaccines remain crucial for controlling spread and preventing illness.

Influenza shots provide the most effective prevention against severe forms of the flu. According to the CDC, everyone six months of age and older should receive the flu vaccine each year. Annual vaccination is a critical to protect vulnerable groups and limit spread.

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Whooping cough (pertussis) cases surged in 2024, showing a sharp rise over last year. By late October, cases were over five times higher than the same period in 2023. Numbers have even surpassed pre-pandemic levels from 2019.

Doctors recommend that infants, children, adolescents, and adults all receive the pertussis vaccine.

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