HOMETOWN HEALTH: Fungus spreading across U.S., CDC calling it urgent threat

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – As of July 25, 27 states reported more than 3,400 cases of Candida Auris. Fewer than 4,300 cases were reported in all of last year.

C. Auris was first detected in the U.S. in 2016. The CDC characterizes it as an “urgent threat.”

The fungus is often resistant to anti-fungal medications as well as cleaning products. It spreads through contact with contaminated objects and people. The fungi can be present on a person’s skin or enter the body through a break in the skin, causing a potentially dangerous bloodstream infection.

C. Auris is primarily a concern for people who are hospitalized, as it more seriously affects those with underlying conditions.

Amazon offers weight loss drugs through pharmacy

Amazon is now offering several popular weight loss drugs through its pharmacy. Eligible Medicare patients can choose from oral and injectable versions of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound KwikPen and Foundayo pills.

The weight loss medications cost $50 a month with free home delivery. Amazon said the medications are available through the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program, which runs through December 2027. No Prime membership is required.

Pediatricians urge flu vaccinations ahead of back-to-school season

With back-to-school season underway and flu season approaching, pediatricians are urging all children 6 months or older to be vaccinated against the flu.

The updated guidelines come from the American Academy of Pediatrics following a flu season that led to nearly 200 children’s deaths. Doctors said flu vaccines have been thoroughly studied and are safe, but fewer than half of children in the U.S. are vaccinated.

A recent CDC study found vaccines can reduce the risk of children dying from flu by 80%.