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West Nile Virus Outbreak: Second Patient at Spallanzani Hospital in Lazio

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor
written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

West Nile Virus Spikes in Lazio: 16 New cases Confirmed, Region on Alert

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Breaking News: The West Nile Virus (WNV) situation in the Lazio region of Italy has taken a concerning turn, with health authorities confirming 16 new cases of positivity. This brings the total number of confirmed WNV cases in Lazio for 2025 to 44, according to a bulletin released by the Lazio Region.

Of the newly identified cases, four individuals are presenting with neurological syndrome, while the remaining twelve have experienced fever caused by the virus. These recent confirmations follow analyses conducted at the prestigious Lazzaro Spallanzani National Institute for Infectious Diseases.

The outbreak appears concentrated in the province of Latina, which has recorded 41 total cases, including one recent fatality. Elsewhere in Lazio, the province of Rome has reported two cases, and one case has been identified outside the region but with probable exposure in the province of Caserta.

Specific municipalities in Lazio identified as areas of potential exposure include Aprilia, Cisterna di Latina, Fondi, Latina, Pontinia, Priverno, Sezze, and Sabaudia in the Latina province, and Anzio and Nettuno in the Rome province.

Currently, 18 of the confirmed cases are hospitalized in regular wards for other medical conditions, while three patients have been discharged. nineteen individuals are receiving treatment at home. Critically, two patients are in intensive care, and sadly, two deaths have been attributed to the virus this year.

Evergreen Insights on West Nile Virus:

The West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that can affect humans, horses, and other animals.While many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, a significant portion can develop illness ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe neurological conditions.Key prevention Strategies:

Mosquito Bite Prevention: The most effective way to avoid WNV is to prevent mosquito bites. This includes using insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and ensuring windows and doors have screens that are in good repair.
 Eliminate Breeding Sites: Reducing mosquito populations is crucial. Regularly empty standing water from flower pots, birdbaths, pet water bowls, and clogged gutters. Mosquitoes breed in even small amounts of stagnant water.
Community Efforts: Public health campaigns and community-wide efforts to control mosquito populations, such as larviciding and adulticiding programs where appropriate, play a vital role in mitigating WNV transmission.
 Awareness of symptoms: While many cases are mild, it’s important to be aware of potential symptoms, which can include fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, encephalitis or meningitis. Seek medical attention if you suspect you may have contracted the virus.

The current situation in Lazio underscores the persistent threat of West Nile Virus and the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive public health measures to protect communities.

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What public health measures are being implemented in the Lazio region too control the mosquito population and prevent further spread of West Nile Virus?

West nile Virus Outbreak: Second Patient at Spallanzani Hospital in lazio

confirmed Case & Regional Health Alert

A second patient has been confirmed with West Nile Virus (WNV) at the Spallanzani National Institute for Infectious Diseases in Rome, lazio, Italy. This follows an initial case reported earlier this month, escalating concerns about a potential West Nile Virus outbreak in the region. Health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and implementing preventative measures. This latest case underscores the importance of public awareness regarding mosquito-borne diseases and proactive steps to minimize risk.

Understanding West Nile Virus

West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne zoonotic arbovirus. It’s primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, specifically Culex species. While many infected individuals experiance no symptoms, a notable percentage develop flu-like illness. In rare cases, WNV can lead to serious neurological complications.

Transmission Cycle: Bird-mosquito-human is the typical transmission cycle. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds, then transmit the virus to humans through bites.

Symptoms: Common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes a skin rash.

Severe Symptoms: Less than 1% of infected people develop severe illness, which can include encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Symptoms of severe illness include high fever, stiff neck, disorientation, coma, tremors, seizures, and paralysis.

Lazio Region: Current Situation & Risk Factors

The Lazio region, including Rome, is considered an area at risk for West nile Virus due to its climate and the presence of suitable mosquito breeding grounds. The recent cases at Spallanzani Hospital are prompting increased surveillance and control efforts.

Affected Areas: Initial reports indicate the cases are concentrated in the province of Rome, but monitoring is expanding across Lazio.

Mosquito Control Measures: Local authorities are intensifying mosquito control programs, including larviciding (targeting mosquito larvae) and adulticiding (targeting adult mosquitoes).

Bird Monitoring: Monitoring wild bird populations for the virus is crucial, as birds serve as the primary reservoir for WNV. Dead bird reporting is encouraged.

Blood Donation Screening: Blood banks are implementing enhanced screening procedures to ensure the safety of the blood supply.

Prevention Strategies: Protecting Yourself from West Nile Virus

Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is the most effective way to prevent West Nile Virus infection. Here’s a comprehensive list of preventative measures:

  1. Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. Follow product instructions carefully.
  2. Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks, especially during peak mosquito activity hours (dawn and dusk).
  3. Mosquito-proof Your Home:

Install or repair screens on windows and doors.

Use mosquito netting over beds, especially for infants and young children.

Eliminate standing water around your home, as this is where mosquitoes breed. This includes emptying flower pots, birdbaths, gutters, and old tires.

  1. Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Limit outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
  2. Report Dead Birds: Contact local health authorities to report any dead birds,notably crows,jays,and magpies,as these are often the first indicators of WNV activity.

diagnosis & Treatment of west nile Virus

Diagnosing West Nile Virus typically involves blood tests to detect the presence of the virus or antibodies against it. There is no specific antiviral treatment for WNV infection.

Mild Cases: most individuals with mild symptoms recover on their own with rest and supportive care, such as fluids and pain relievers.

Severe Cases: Patients with severe neurological illness may require hospitalization, intensive care, and supportive treatment, including mechanical ventilation.

Early Diagnosis: Early diagnosis is crucial for managing severe cases and providing appropriate supportive care.

Resources & further Information

Spallanzani National Institute for Infectious Diseases: https://www.inmi.it/

World Health Organization (WHO) – west Nile Virus: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/west-nile-virus

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – West Nile Virus: [https://wwwcdcgov/westnile/index[https://wwwcdcgov/westnile/index

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Sport

Ben Askren Details Scarce Near-Death Experiences Following Double Lung Transplant

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written by

Ben Askren Details Harrowing health Battle, Double Lung Transplant: “I Only Died Four Times”

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Retired UFC fighter and former Bellator champion Ben askren has made his first public comments as undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant after a severe bout of pneumonia.In a video posted to Instagram, Askren revealed a shocking lack of memory surrounding his hospitalization and the ordeal that followed.

“I just read thru my wifeS journal as I don’t remember anything from May 28 to July 2,” Askren shared. “No recollection. No idea. No idea what happened. It’s like a movie. It’s ridiculous.”

According to his wife, Amy Askren, he was largely unconscious as doctors fought to save his life. The struggle included multiple instances where his heart stopped. “I only died four times where the ticker stopped for about 20 seconds,” Askren stated, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. “That’s not ideal. But I got the double lung transplant. I made it out the other side of it.”

The physical toll was immense. Askren revealed he lost approximately 50 pounds in a 45-day period, dropping to 147 pounds – a weight he hadn’t seen sence he was 15 years old. “That was a battle. I don’t remember most of it,” he admitted.

While his recovery is ongoing, Askren expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of support he received. He likened the experience to “having my own funeral,” recalling the stories shared about the late Dave Schultz and the comfort of knowing people remembered and appreciated him.

“The thing that was most impactful to me was all the love I felt from everybody,” Askren said. “The outpouring of love from the wrestling community is just amazing. It felt so good. I love you guys. I appreciate you guys. It’s been tough, not only on me but my whole family and my close community. I appreciate everything.”

Askren did not specify the length of his continued hospital stay, but acknowledged he is “gaining quite a bit of strength, learning to use everything again.” The typical recovery from a double lung transplant is a lengthy process, with the initial days posing the highest risk of infection or organ rejection.

What role did prophylactic medications and strict hygiene protocols play in mitigating infection risk for Ben Askren post-transplant?

Ben Askren Details Scarce Near-Death Experiences Following Double Lung Transplant

The Road to Transplant: A Deteriorating Condition

Former UFC fighter ben Askren’s health journey took a dramatic turn when he began experiencing a rapid decline in lung function. Initially attributed to a heart condition, further inquiry revealed a far more serious issue: pulmonary hypertension leading to severe lung damage. This necessitated a life-saving double lung transplant in April 2023. The underlying cause was later identified as a genetic predisposition, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the disease.Askren openly discussed the frightening speed at which his condition worsened, emphasizing the urgency of finding a solution. Lung transplant recipients frequently enough face a challenging recovery, but Askren’s case proved particularly fraught with complications.

Initial Post-Transplant Complications & Near-Death Experiences

Askren has recently shared harrowing details about the immediate aftermath of his transplant, describing multiple instances where he came dangerously close to death. These weren’t widely publicized at the time, contributing to the “scarce” facts surrounding his recovery.

Acute Rejection: The initial weeks were dominated by battling acute rejection, a common but serious complication where the body’s immune system attacks the new lungs. This required aggressive immunosuppressant therapy, a delicate balancing act to prevent rejection without leaving the patient vulnerable to infection.

Severe Infections: Immunosuppression significantly weakens the immune system, making transplant recipients highly susceptible to infections.Askren contracted several severe infections, including pneumonia and a fungal infection, requiring extended stays in the intensive care unit (ICU).He described these infections as feeling like “drowning from the inside.”

Fluid Accumulation & Respiratory Distress: Meaningful fluid buildup in his lungs caused severe respiratory distress, requiring mechanical ventilation. Askren recounted moments where doctors were unsure if he would survive,emphasizing the critical nature of his condition.

Cardiac issues: The stress on his body from the transplant and subsequent complications led to cardiac arrhythmias, further complicating his recovery.

These events, while not detailed in real-time publicly, were revealed in recent interviews, painting a picture of a truly harrowing recovery period. Post-transplant complications are a significant concern for all recipients, but the severity and frequency in Askren’s case were exceptional.

The Role of Immunosuppressants & Infection Control

Managing the immune system is paramount after a lung transplant. Immunosuppressant medications, such as tacrolimus and mycophenolate, are crucial to prevent the body from rejecting the new organs. However, these drugs come with significant side effects, including increased risk of infection.

Prophylactic Medications: Transplant recipients routinely receive prophylactic medications to prevent common infections like pneumonia and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

strict Hygiene Protocols: maintaining strict hygiene is vital. this includes frequent handwashing, avoiding crowded places, and wearing masks when necessary.

Regular Monitoring: Close monitoring for signs of infection is essential.This involves regular blood tests,chest X-rays,and clinical assessments.

Early Intervention: Prompt treatment of any infection is critical to prevent it from escalating and causing further damage.

Askren’s case underscores the importance of meticulous infection control and proactive management of immunosuppression. Transplant immunology is a complex field, and finding the right balance is crucial for long-term success.

Askren’s Current Health Status & Recovery Progress

As of july 2025, Askren reports significant improvement in his health. While he still faces ongoing challenges, including the need for lifelong immunosuppression and regular monitoring, he is able to resume many of his normal activities.

Improved Lung Function: His lung function has steadily improved, allowing him to engage in light exercise and physical therapy.

Reduced Medication Dosage: Doctors have been able to gradually reduce his immunosuppressant dosage, minimizing some of the associated side effects.

Ongoing Rehabilitation: Askren continues to participate in a extensive rehabilitation program to regain his strength and endurance.

Advocacy for Organ Donation: He has

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Health

Culinary Medicine for Kidney Health: A Powerful Ally

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Culinary Medicine: The Future of Food as Healthcare and Chronic Disease Management

Did you know that what you eat can be as powerful as any medication? Culinary medicine is proving this to be true, transforming how we approach healthcare by merging the art of cooking with medical science and nutrition. Instead of just treating symptoms, it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their health through the food they consume. Forget restrictive diets – culinary medicine focuses on crafting flavorful, health-promoting meals that are tailored to individual needs and medical conditions, creating a sustainable approach to wellness. This is not just a trend; it’s a paradigm shift.

The Rise of Culinary Medicine: A Holistic Approach

Culinary medicine’s growing popularity stems from a simple but profound idea: food is medicine. This approach recognizes that what we eat directly impacts our health, particularly in managing chronic diseases. It moves beyond simply advising patients to eat “healthy” and instead, provides practical, hands-on education, teaching them how to prepare delicious, nutritious meals that support their specific health needs.

This interdisciplinary field brings together doctors, nutritionists, chefs, and patients to create personalized food plans, addressing not only the physiology of disease but also the cultural and emotional aspects of eating. Yale Medicine’s Teaching Kitchen, for example, is a shining example of this, bringing together experts and patients to design practical solutions and foster lasting dietary changes.

Culinary Medicine and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A Powerful Partnership

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) presents a significant challenge, affecting millions worldwide. The good news? Culinary medicine offers a powerful strategy for managing CKD and improving the quality of life for those affected. By focusing on food choices, individuals with CKD can reduce the risk factors, slow the progression of the disease, and prevent complications.

Nutritional guidelines for CKD often involve restrictions on certain nutrients, such as phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. This can make meal planning complex. However, culinary medicine provides the tools and techniques needed to create meals that adhere to these guidelines while still being appetizing. For instance, people with kidney disease can replace animal proteins with tofu, legumes, or seitan. Seasoning salts are eliminated in favor of toasted herbs and natural spices.

Plant-Based Diets: A Cornerstone of CKD Management

International guidelines, such as those from the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) and the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO), strongly recommend plant-based diets for managing CKD. These diets, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help control blood pressure, manage weight, and reduce metabolic acidity.

The shift towards plant-based eating is not just about restriction; it’s about exploring a world of flavors and culinary possibilities. From vibrant salads bursting with fresh produce to hearty lentil stews, plant-based diets provide a wealth of options that are both nutritious and delicious.


Beyond CKD: Culinary Medicine for Other Chronic Conditions

While CKD is a prominent focus, culinary medicine’s benefits extend to a range of other chronic conditions. It provides a valuable tool for managing diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer. By learning to cook and eat in ways that support their specific health needs, individuals can improve their overall well-being.

“Food is, in fact, the foundation of all health,” states Dr. Nate Wood, the inaugural director of Culinary Medicine at Yale Medicine. “It’s about empowering patients with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to make informed choices about their daily food.”

The Future of Culinary Medicine: Trends and Innovations

What does the future hold for this promising field? Several trends point towards continued growth and innovation.

Personalized Nutrition: The Next Frontier

The future of culinary medicine is deeply intertwined with personalization. As research advances and technology improves, we can expect to see increasingly tailored dietary plans. This means that food plans will be customized based on an individual’s genetic makeup, microbiome, and lifestyle, leading to even more effective interventions.

Technology’s Role: Apps, AI, and Beyond

Technology will also play a huge part in the future of culinary medicine. Expect to see more user-friendly apps and online platforms providing:

  • Recipe recommendations tailored to specific health conditions.
  • Interactive cooking classes and tutorials.
  • AI-powered tools that analyze dietary data and provide personalized suggestions.


Increased Collaboration and Integration

We can anticipate a growing trend of collaboration between healthcare professionals, chefs, and food educators. This will lead to the integration of culinary medicine into more clinical settings and healthcare systems. The goal is to make healthy eating a standard part of treatment and prevention strategies.

Actionable Insights: How You Can Embrace Culinary Medicine Today

You don’t need a medical degree to incorporate the principles of culinary medicine into your life. Here are some simple, actionable steps you can take:

Start Cooking!

The most essential step is to embrace cooking. Begin with simple recipes and gradually expand your culinary skills. Experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques.

Focus on Whole Foods

Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Minimize your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.

Educate Yourself

Learn about the nutritional needs specific to your own health. Use reliable resources, such as the National Kidney Foundation or the American Diabetes Association, to guide your dietary choices.

Seek Professional Guidance

Consider consulting with a registered dietitian or a culinary medicine expert who can provide personalized advice and support. They can help you create a meal plan that aligns with your health goals and preferences.

Pro Tip: Start with small changes. Instead of a complete overhaul, gradually replace unhealthy foods with healthier alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between culinary medicine and a regular diet?

Culinary medicine goes beyond generic dietary advice. It combines medical knowledge, nutritional science, and culinary skills to help people prepare tasty, healthy meals that are tailored to their specific health needs. It prioritizes education and hands-on cooking experience.

Can culinary medicine help with weight loss?

Absolutely. By focusing on whole, unprocessed foods and providing practical cooking skills, culinary medicine can support healthy weight management. It encourages sustainable lifestyle changes rather than restrictive dieting.

Is culinary medicine expensive?

While some specialized programs may have associated costs, the core principles of culinary medicine – cooking at home, choosing whole foods, and making informed dietary choices – are accessible and can even be budget-friendly. Learning to cook more can significantly cut down on the cost of eating out and processed foods.

Where can I find culinary medicine programs?

Many medical schools and healthcare systems offer culinary medicine programs. Research online, and ask your doctor for any local or online recommendations. Your local hospital might have culinary medicine classes, so you can explore that avenue.


The Enduring Power of Food

Culinary medicine is more than a trend; it’s a movement that empowers individuals to take control of their health through the power of food. By embracing its principles, you can not only improve your well-being, but you can also make a positive change that lasts a lifetime.

Explore the potential of a “food as medicine” model for improved wellness on Relevant Article Topic!

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Health

Pola-R-GemOx Improves DLBCL Survival

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

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