Health

Latest Health News

đź“…December 14, 2025 at 1:00 AM
Global health news highlights ongoing outbreaks in Africa, major U.S. ibogaine trials for addiction and TBI, AMR threats via One Health, and advances in Alzheimer's diagnostics and rapid tests.
1

DRC Faces Worst Cholera Outbreak in 25 Years

The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing its worst cholera epidemic in 25 years, affecting 17 of 26 provinces. Over 64,000 cases and 1,800 deaths recorded in 2025, fueled by poor water access, flooding, and conflict. UNICEF warns of devastating community impacts.Source 1

2

Africa Advances on Mpox Emergency Amid Influenza Challenges

Africa nears end of mpox public health emergency but faces influenza overlapping with other viruses, stressing surveillance needs. WHO emphasizes vaccination for high-risk groups like healthcare workers and elderly, with 70-75% hospitalization protection in children.Source 1

3

Mauritania Reports Widespread Rift Valley Fever

Mauritania sees 286 human Rift Valley fever cases and 15 deaths in 2025 across 14 regions, plus 200 animal cases. Mosquito and livestock contact drive this zoonosis; WHO supports One Health response linking health, veterinary, and environment sectors.Source 1

4

Texas Awards $50M for Ibogaine Clinical Trials on Addiction and TBI

UTMB Health and UTHealth Houston receive $50 million from Texas for ibogaine trials targeting opioid addiction, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury. Backed by Senate Bill 2308, trials aim for FDA approval to address national crises like veteran mental health.Source 2

5

WHO Urges One Health Approach to Combat AMR Superbugs

Sri Lanka's Health Secretary calls AMR a silent pandemic threatening humans, animals, and environment, with 1 in 5 global deaths linked to it being children. Emphasizes integrated response across sectors for food security and SDGs in South-East Asia.Source 7

6

Somalia Resumes Polio Vaccination Amid Fragile Health Systems

Somalia battles ongoing polio transmission from 2023, with low vaccination coverage fueling resurgence. Targeted campaign starts mid-December in Banadir to curb preventable diseases in vulnerable areas.Source 1

7

15-Minute Hepatitis C Test Revolutionizes Diagnostics

Northwestern scientists develop fastest hepatitis C test using DASH rapid PCR, delivering results in 15 minutes. Originally for COVID, this breakthrough enables quicker treatment in high-burden areas.Source 3

8

Base-Edited Immune Cells Breakthrough for T-Cell Leukemia

Cutting-edge therapy with base-edited immune cells offers major advance for tough T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases. Precise editing improves outcomes where standard treatments fail.Source 3

9

Plasma Protein Models Advance Alzheimer's Detection

UPenn researchers develop machine learning models using 120 plasma proteins for non-invasive Alzheimer's diagnosis, avoiding risky CSF procedures. Enables rapid, cost-effective screening.Source 4

10

Community-Led AMETHIST Reduces HIV Infections in Zimbabwe

Nature study shows AMETHIST program cuts HIV costs and boosts impact via community empowerment. Sustained infection reductions and quality-of-life gains persist post-intervention.Source 9

11

WHO Releases First GLP-1 Guideline for Global Obesity Crisis

WHO issues guideline on Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 therapies amid shift from infections to chronic illnesses like obesity. Addresses growing non-communicable disease burden worldwide.Source 15

12

Blood Sugar Control Halves Heart Risks in Prediabetes

Lowering blood sugar in prediabetes patients halves serious heart problem risks. Highlights metabolic management as key preventive strategy per recent medical research.Source 12