The Latest Breaking News from Bacteria

Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome: should I be worried if I’m travelling to Japan?

You may have heard reports in recent days of a “flesh-eating bacteria” spreading in Japan, referring to an illness that can occur with streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS).

The Conversation · Jun 24, 2024

The happy microbiome: how to nourish all of yours - from mouth to gut to vagina

Genetically speaking, we are more microbe than human and, whether on our skin or up our nose, they are essential to our health. Here are simple ways to keep yours thriving

The Guardian - UK · Jun 23, 2024

Yes, Processed Foods Can Make You Sick — Here's How

Diets high in ultra-processed foods are increasingly being linked to numerous health issues.

Inverse · Jun 23, 2024

What is STSS, the deadly flesh-eating bacteria on the rise in Japan?

Over 1,000 cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) were reported in Japan in the first six months of 2024

The Independent UK · Jun 21, 2024

Millions of mosquitoes released in Hawaii to save rare birds from extinction

Conservationists hope insects carrying ‘birth control’ bacteria can save honeycreeper being wiped out by malaria

The Guardian - UK · Jun 21, 2024

Azithromycin: how to manage while this antibiotic is in short supply for children

Antibiotic shortages have become a big challenge for child health. For example, amoxicillin and cephalexin are among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for children, used to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Both have had shortages of their liquid formulations in recent years.

The Conversation · Jun 21, 2024

Ultra-processed foods: here’s how they may affect the way the immune system functions

In our fast-paced world, convenience can often come at the cost of nutrition. This shift has led to an increased reliance on ultra-processed foods.

The Conversation · Jun 18, 2024

STSS: Rare Flesh-Eating Bacteria That Kills Within 48 Hours Spreads In Japan

Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS), caused by Group A Streptococcus, can result in severe complications including low blood pressure, irregular heart rate, rapid breathing, necrotizing fasciitis potentially leading to limb loss, organ failure, and toxic shock.

Medical Daily · Jun 18, 2024

Some of Earth’s most ancient lifeforms can live on hydrogen – and we can learn from their chemical powers

Three-quarters of all matter in the universe is made up of hydrogen. The young Earth was also rich in hydrogen, thanks to fierce geological and volcanic activity.

The Conversation · Jun 17, 2024

Take my (bad) breath away – causes of halitosis and how to check whether you have it

In Greek mythology, the many-headed beast Hydra had such severe halitosis that the stench of its breath was deadly to anyone who smelled it. Thankfully, our morning breath might not be that pungent – although eating onions or garlic can put some people in competition with the Hydra.

The Conversation · Jun 17, 2024