In Case You Missed It
Explore a curated roundup of this week's articles, offering deep insights into the latest medical and healthcare advancements.
General
Latest on SARS-CoV-2 Subvariant XEC (January 2025)
A new SARS-CoV-2 subvariant, XEC, has been detected in several countries, including South Africa. First identified in Germany in June 2024, XEC is a recombinant variant from the Omicron lineage. It has since spread globally and is now the most common SARS-CoV-2 subvariant reported. Scientists and health authorities are monitoring its prevalence and characteristics to understand its impact on transmission, immunity, and public health.
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Georgia certified malaria-free by WHO
Following a nearly century-long effort, Georgia has been certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO). With today’s announcement, Georgia joins the ranks of 45 countries and 1 territory that have achieved this milestone.
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WHO launches US$ 1.5 billion Health Emergency Appeal to tackle unprecedented global health crises
Conflict, climate change, epidemics, and displacement are converging to create an unparalleled global health crisis, with 305 million people in urgent need of humanitarian assistance in 2025. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) is calling for US$ 1.5 billion for its 2025 Health Emergency Appeal (HEA), to support life-saving health interventions worldwide.
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Digital Health
Connected health tools help seniors, but a digital divide persists
New research shows the need to "carefully consider the unique characteristics of older adults" when developing and deploying digital health tools, according to JAMA Network.
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