Introduction: Nipah virus (NiV), which was recognized in Malaysia in 1999, is a zoonotic virus spread through direct contact between infected pigs and humans. This virus can also be transmitted through contaminated food and person-to-person via exposure to secretions from infected animals and unprotected person-to-person contact. Thus it is both highly infectious as well as potentially fatal, with a fatality rate of 40-76%.
Continue reading “Ishita Nair, Manasi Narayan, and Madison Crombie’s Disaster Response Plan for Kerala, India”History and Controversy of Fluoride in Drinking Water
Water fluoridation, the controlled addition of fluoride to public water supplies, has been a cornerstone of public health initiatives aimed at reducing dental decay. Initiated in the United States in 1945, it has since been adopted in numerous countries, though not without controversy. In light of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services ahead of the second administration for incoming-President Donald Trump, both critics and supporters have pointed to Kennedy’s pronounced opposition to the fluoridation of water. Safety and health experts now share concerns about what this will mean for the future of public health.
Continue reading “History and Controversy of Fluoride in Drinking Water”PAHO States Introduce Way to Enhance Early Detection of Health Threats
In October 2024, member states of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) gathered to adopt a thorough strategy that strengthens early detection and response to health threats across the Americas. This initiative tackles the vulnerabilities revealed by recent global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing attention to the necessity for strong systems that can monitor and respond effectively to new diseases as they arise. Countries without these measures may risk common outbreaks and significant loss of life, with underserved regions being especially affected.
Continue reading “PAHO States Introduce Way to Enhance Early Detection of Health Threats”Student Spotlight: Pratyusha Settipalli
Pratyusha Settipalli is a second-year Master of Public Health (MPH) student at NYU’s School of Global Public Health, with a concentration in Global Health. With over four years of experience spanning healthcare management, disaster response, and public health initiatives, Pratyusha has worked with organizations like the American Red Cross and Encore Support Services, bringing equity and resilience to the forefront of her work. Her career is defined by a commitment to underserved communities, bridging gaps in access and resources to create lasting change. Read our Q&A with Pratyusha below!
Interviewed by Sara Merken.
Continue reading “Student Spotlight: Pratyusha Settipalli”Attacks Toward Healthcare Workers Emphasize Need for Protection
During the first three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, over 255 healthcare workers were attacked, 18 were killed, 147 were injured, and more than 80 healthcare facilities were severely damaged. These attacks stemmed from various factors, including disgruntled patients and their families, conflicts related to vaccinations, and relevant past patient history.
Continue reading “Attacks Toward Healthcare Workers Emphasize Need for Protection”