West Nile is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illnesses in the U.S. A person gets sick after being bitten by an infected mosquito, and the mosquito gets the virus by biting an infected bird.

Most people with West Nile don’t have any symptoms, but about 1 in 5 will develop West Nile Fever, which is a flu-like illness that can be severe in older adults.

West Nile targets birds, and the virus is not as good at replicating other species. This means a mosquito can only get the virus by biting an infected bird, not an infected person.

Standing water outside homes creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Flowerpot saucers, old tires, wheelbarrows, and pet bowls are common overlooked items that can increase the number of mosquitos around your home.

West Nile symptoms usually appear 2-6 days after being infected. Doctors can test for West Nile.

There are currently no specific treatments for West Nile. Patients can get medicine to help manage symptoms.

There are currently no West Nile vaccines for humans, mosquito bite prevention is the best protection.

Measles cases in the U.S. are still increasing as of April 27th. Measles is considered one of the most contagious viruses in the world, and is especially dangerous to children under 5 and older adults.

Most people who are not vaccinated will get measles if they come into contact with someone who has the virus. Children younger than 1 are typically not yet vaccinated for measles, which makes them particularly at risk.

It is recommended that babies receive the first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12-15 months, and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. In circumstances where exposure to measles is more likely infants between 6-12 months of age can receive the vaccine. The vaccine is less effective at this age, so babies vaccinated before the age of 1 should receive two doses on the recommended schedule after the age of 1.

In rare cases where a person with a MMR vaccine has had a breakthrough measles infection, the cases are more mild and the person is less contagious than if they were not vaccinated. The majority of people in the U.S. who have gotten measles this year are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.

The reported case count for measles is likely lower than how many cases there actually are due to some cases not being reported to the health department.

The blood shortage is caused by a combination of fewer donors and an increased need for donated blood. Donated blood is a critical part of medical procedures for trauma patients, certain surgeries, and some medical conditions.

To donate blood, there are some eligibility requirements including weighing at least 110 lbs and being at least 17 years old (or 16 with parent consent). More information on eligibility can be found at ms.blood.net.

When preparing for a blood donation appointment, donors should make sure they drink plenty of water and eat a good meal prior to donating. After donating, you must wait 56 days before you can donate again.

In addition to saving lives, people who donate blood at least once a year can help improve blood flow and reduce arterial blockages. It can also help balance your iron levels and lower the risk of heart attacks.

Mississippi Blood Services is offering gift cards to donors and all are entered for a chance to win a new television through May 22nd.

We are still learning how long the blood shortage will last, and if some medical procedures will need to be paused due to the shortage of blood.

The current dust cloud is 2,000 miles wide and 750 miles from north to south, making it the largest dust cloud so far in 2025.

The sand carried by the air masses is a form of particle pollution and has the potential to negatively impact air quality.

People with chronic lung disease, asthma, and other lung conditions can consider wearing masks when outdoors and keeping doors and windows closed indoors if air quality reaches levels that are moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups.

The Saharan Air Layer carrying the dust clouds can also lessen the formation of thunderstorms due to interactions of the hot dry air mass in the atmosphere.

For the most up to date information on air quality in your region, check your local weather channel or AirNow.gov.

The exact timing and level of impact on air quality of the Saharan Dust Clouds is hard to predict due to local variations.

It is hard to predict how the Saharan Air Layer or dust clouds will shift in the coming decades from other atmospheric changes like warmer temperatures.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections you can get from having unprotected sex like chlamydia, gonorrhea, human papilloma virus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Using a barrier during sex such as a condom or dental dam can protect you against STIs. STIs can be transmitted in sexual activities that involve the mouth, vagina, penis, or anus. You can also ensure that you and your sexual partner(s) are tested for STIs before having sex, and on a regular basis if you are not in a monogamous relationship.

Some STIs can be prevented by a vaccine or medication. For example, a vaccination is available to help prevent human papillomavirus (HPV) and medications like PrEP help prevent infection from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). People can talk to their healthcare provider or community clinic to learn more about personal risk factors and preventative measures for STIs.

Vaccines against many STIs like chlamydia and HIV are still being developed.

The bacteria was found through routine checks of marketed tattoo inks.

The FDA does not currently regulate tattoo ink because it is considered a cosmetic product.

To minimize the chances of infection when receiving a tattoo, people should ensure they go to a licensed tattoo artist, ask about their safety standards, and research the type of ink being used.

It is estimated that one third to one half of adults in the U.S. have at least one type of tattoo, and about 5% of people who receive a tattoo experience an infection.

There have been no reported complications from the use of Sacred Tattoo Ink, and it is unknown if they have been used.

The FDA is working with retailers to ensure these two inks are removed from stores, but it is possible they are still available in some places or were already purchased by tattoo artists, so it is important to check which inks are being used.

Galdieria extract blue comes from a species of algae, butterfly pea flower extract comes from flower petals, and calcium phosphate is a mineral that contains calcium and phosphorus.

Synthetic color additives are often made from petroleum.

Concerns about the possible health effects of synthetic or artificial food dyes have been raised. But as of May 2025 no conclusive evidence has shown that synthetic dyes are harmful to humans in the amounts present in food. Some studies have shown carcinogenic effects in rats related to some artificial dyes like Red Dye #3, and other small studies have suggested synthetic dyes may have negative health effects. The UK and Canada require a warning label on foods that contain artificial dyes.

It is hard to tell which products natural dyes will work for, and things like shelf life, cost, and final appearance all play a factor on whether a natural dye could be used.

Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Symptoms depend on age and if someone has been vaccinated or not.

Babies younger than 1 are at the greatest risk of developing severe complications including trouble breathing and brain inflammation.

The best way to prevent whooping cough is to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends that babies, children, preteens, pregnant women, and adults get the vaccine.

We are still learning about the cause of the increase in whooping cough cases. It is likely due to a combination of factors.