Meningitis is inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and other organisms. While some forms of meningitis may improve with supportive care, bacterial meningitis can become life-threatening very quickly and requires urgent medical treatment. Knowing the symptoms of meningitis is important because the illness…
HIV symptoms can vary considerably from person to person. Some people develop flu-like symptoms during the early stage of HIV infection, while others have no symptoms at all. Later, untreated HIV can cause symptoms related to progressive weakening of the immune system. One of the most important things to understand about HIV symptoms is that…
Dengue is one of the most important mosquito-borne viral diseases in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It can range from a mild flu-like illness to a potentially life-threatening condition known as severe dengue. Because dengue outbreaks continue to affect millions of people globally, understanding its symptoms, warning signs and prevention methods is essential….
COVID-19 may no longer dominate the headlines as it did during the pandemic, but SARS-CoV-2 has not disappeared. In summer 2026, several countries are reporting renewed increases in COVID activity, reminding us that COVID can produce significant waves outside the traditional winter respiratory-virus season. Recent surveillance shows increasing activity in parts of the United States and Asia,…
A rare but concerning fungal infection called Candida auris (C. auris) has been receiving increased attention in the United States because of its ability to resist several antifungal medications and spread easily in healthcare environments. Health authorities have described it as an emerging public health threat because it can cause serious infections, particularly among hospitalized patients and…
The United States is currently experiencing one of its largest Cyclospora outbreaks in recent years. Since May 2026, thousands of confirmed and suspected cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported across more than 30 states, prompting a nationwide investigation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and state health departments. Although…
The recent Ebola virus outbreak in Central Africa has once again raised global public health concerns. In May 2026, health authorities confirmed a major outbreak involving the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern because of…
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a lesser-known but significant respiratory virus that has been increasingly recognized for its impact on public health. Despite its relatively recent discovery, hMPV is believed to have been circulating among humans for decades, causing respiratory illnesses across all age groups. This article provides a detailed look at what hMPV is, how…
Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. While often associated with outbreaks in confined spaces like cruise ships, schools, and…
Bird flu, scientifically known as avian influenza, is a topic of global importance that has captured the attention of scientists, health experts, and policymakers worldwide. While it primarily affects birds, the virus also has the potential to impact humans and other animals. Here, we delve into some of the most intriguing facts about this virus…
