By Divine Perezide

Concerns Raised Over Health Risks from Water Dispensers

In a message that has recently gone viral on WhatsApp, a user under the name “peedee4luv1” issued a warning about potential health risks associated with drinking water from dispensers in homes and offices. The message highlights water dispensers as a possible source of infection that has largely gone unnoticed.

The attached video shows a rodent licking the dispenser tips in an attempt to drink there from.

“Please, let’s take note of this risk of drinking water from water dispensers, either at home or in the office,” reads the post. The user expresses concern over the possible spread of infections through these commonly used appliances, calling them “one of the many untraceable sources of infection that never received attention.”

The warning, which has sparked widespread discussion among users, ends with an appeal to “stay safe” and a call for vigilance in maintaining hygiene standards.

As awareness around the potential for contamination in shared equipment grows, health experts remind users to follow recommended cleaning and sanitizing practices to ensure water safety.

First Pig Kidney Transplant Patient Discharged From Hospital. Guess which Country.

By Tobouke JEMINE,

The world has indeed reached a stage where impossibilities are increasingly becoming possibilities. Few things will be said to be impossible to attain in the nearest future.It was all joy and hope to many when the news hit the media that the kidney of a pig has a solution to the treatment of kidney in a man.

It is on record that millions of individuals across the globe await organ transplants, with kidneys topping the list of most sought-after organs. Today, the answer to the challenges involved in the demand and supply of suitable organs is largely taken care of, with this groundbreaking procedure.

Rick Slayman has entered the book of records as the first patient to be discharged from hospital with a kidney transplant derived from a genetically modified pig. The groundbreaking surgery, planned and carried out at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), has been acclaimed worldwide, with Slayman leaving MGH just two weeks post-operation healthy, marking a major breakthrough in xenotransplantation’s potential to address the medical challenge of organs.

The 62 years old Slayman was all joy and gratitude for the transformative procedure. “This moment – leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time – is one I wished would come for many years. Now, it’s a reality and one of the happiest moments of my life,” he remarked. Slayman was profoundly thankful for the  freedom from the dialysis that had adversely affected the quality of his life, stemming from complications related to type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

The success of this medical surgery is universally hailed and appreciated  following several unsuccessful attempts with organs sourced from genetically modified pigs. Associate Chief of the Nephrology Division at MGH and Slayman’s primary kidney doctor, Dr. Winfred Williams, commended his patient’s valor throughout the process.

Dr. David Klassen, chief medical officer for the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), hailed the profound significance of this breakthrough, emphasizing its potential benefits to the thousands of patients, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds who encounter disproportionate hurdles in accessing kidney transplants.

The pig kidney, developed by eGenesis, a Cambridge-based biotech firm, underwent a thorough process involving 69 genetic modifications to enhance compatibility with human physiology and eliminate the risk of pig retrovirus infection.

Dr. Leonardo Riella, MGH’s medical director for kidney transplantation, emphasized the hope and promise of xenotransplantation in tackling the organ shortage crisis, while stating the prolonged wait times and risks endured by patients relying on dialysis.

Slayman’s procedure received approval under a compassionate use waiver by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. And to stave off organ rejection, Slayman was administered two innovative immunosuppressant drugs, tegoprubart and ravulizumab, courtesy of Eledon Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc. respectively.

Candidiasis: Unraveling the Mystery of a Common Fungal Infection.

By Anthony Beauty

Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is a pervasive fungal ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. This condition is caused by Candida, a type of yeast that naturally resides in the human body but can lead to troublesome infections under certain circumstances. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the origin, transmission, infection, prevention, symptoms, complications, and potential cures of candidiasis.

Origin and Transmission:

Candida is a part of the normal microflora in various parts of the body, including the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and female genitalia. However, when the balance of microorganisms in these areas is disrupted, Candida can overgrow and cause an infection. Such disruptions can occur due to factors like a weakened immune system, antibiotic use, hormonal changes, and diabetes.

Candidiasis is not a contagious condition in the traditional sense. It is not transmitted through casual contact like a cold or flu. Instead, it typically develops when Candida yeast that already resides in the body overgrows, leading to an infection.

Infection and Symptoms:

Candidiasis can manifest in different forms, depending on the affected area. The most common types include oral thrush, vaginal yeast infections, and skin infections. Symptoms of candidiasis may include:

Oral Thrush: White, creamy patches on the tongue and inner cheeks, sometimes accompanied by pain and difficulty swallowing.
Vaginal Yeast Infections: Itching, burning, and unusual discharge in the genital area.
Skin Infections: Redness, itching, and rash in skin folds or moist areas of the body.
Prevention:

Preventing candidiasis involves maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms in the body. Here are some key prevention strategies:

Good Hygiene: Maintain proper personal hygiene, especially in the genital and oral areas.
Limit Antibiotics: Use antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional, as they can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms.
Control Blood Sugar: If you have diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to manage your blood sugar levels effectively.
Diet: A balanced diet that includes probiotics and limits sugar can help keep Candida in check.
Safe Sex: Use protection during sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of transmitting or acquiring infections.
Complications:

While candidiasis is typically a minor and treatable condition, it can lead to complications in some cases. For instance:

Recurrent Infections: Some individuals may experience frequent or chronic yeast infections.
Systemic Infections: In rare cases, candidiasis can spread to the bloodstream and affect vital organs, leading to serious health issues.
Cure and Treatment:

Treatment for candidiasis depends on the type and severity of the infection. Generally, antifungal medications are used to combat the yeast overgrowth. These may be administered orally, topically, or intravenously.

It’s essential to follow the prescribed treatment regimen to ensure complete eradication of the infection. For recurring or severe infections, underlying medical conditions may need to be addressed.

In conclusion, candidiasis is a common fungal infection caused by Candida yeast overgrowth in the body. While it is not contagious, it can cause discomfort and, in some cases, complications. Practicing good hygiene, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary are key to preventing and managing candidiasis effectively. If you suspect you have a candida infection, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment