Despite high overall vaccination rates, unmedicated individuals with mental illness show significantly lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake, signaling the need for targeted health interventions. Study: Mental illness and COVID-19 vaccination: a multinational investigation of observational & register-based data In a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications, researchers determined the…

People who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 have a significantly lower risk of developing more severe cardiovascular conditions linked to COVID-19 infection, according to a nationwide study at the University of Gothenburg. At the same time, some cardiovascular effects are seen after individual doses of the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine aims to reduce complications…

Elevated serum magnesium levels are strongly linked to higher mortality in sepsis, suggesting a critical role for magnesium in assessing sepsis risk and guiding treatment strategies. Study:  High serum magnesium level is associated with increased mortality in patients with sepsis: an international, multicenter retrospective study. Image Credit: sfam_photo /…

New research reveals how lingering viral activity and immune disruption contribute to long COVID, highlighting novel therapeutic strategies that could change the course of treatment for millions. Proposed framework for defining PASC. Review:  Mechanisms of long COVID and the path toward therapeutics A recent study published in the journal Cell…

Using cutting-edge breath sampling, scientists have achieved a breakthrough in diagnosing lower respiratory tract infections with an in vitro assay that could transform patient care in ICUs worldwide. Study:  A breath-based in vitro diagnostic assay for the detection of lower respiratory tract infections . Image Credit: Butusova Elena / Shutterstock.com…

Patients expecting antibiotics for common symptoms risk contributing to antibiotic overuse, making education on the dangers of misuse and resistance critical for both clinicians and the public. Study: Lack of Knowledge of Antibiotic Risks Contributes to Primary Care Patients’ Expectations of Antibiotics for Common Symptoms . Image Credit: New…

Researchers discover a startling diversity of viruses in Japanese bats, with over 60% infected, including novel strains, highlighting the urgent need for viral surveillance to prevent future pandemics. Study: Detection of various DNA and RNA viruses in bats in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. Image Credit: Agami Photo Agency / Shutterstock In a recent…

A randomized trial found that a brief behavioral intervention drastically lowered intrusive memory frequency and reduced PTSD-related symptoms in healthcare workers exposed to trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a scalable solution for trauma care. Study:  A guided single session intervention to reduce intrusive memories of work-related trauma: a randomised…

One evening in May, nursing assistant Debra Ragoonanan's vision blurred during her shift at a state-run Massachusetts veterans home. As her head spun, she said, she called her husband. He picked her up and drove her to the emergency room, where she was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm. It was the latest in a drumbeat…

A new study reveals that COVID-19 patients suffer from significant, long-term cognitive deficits even a year after hospitalization, with brain injury markers and reduced brain volume suggesting immune-mediated damage. Study: Post-hospitalisation COVID-19 cognitive deficits at one year are global and associated with elevated brain injury markers and grey matter volume reduction.…