National Updates
Life Expectancy Plateau Concerns
While U.S. life expectancy rose to 78.4 years in 2023, researchers warn progress may stall, with projections showing average lifespan unlikely to ever reach 100 years. Chronic diseases and obesity remain key barriers.
World Patient Safety Day 2025 Theme Announced
WHO’s campaign emphasizes “Patient Safety from the Start!”, urging safer practices in newborn and child care as part of global patient safety initiatives.
Texas Updates
UT San Antonio & UT Health San Antonio Merger Official
As of September 1, the two universities have legally merged, creating a unified hub for health sciences education and research—expected to strengthen Texas’ role in biomedical innovation.
School Nurses Caught in Consent Law Confusion
A new Texas law requiring explicit parental consent has left school nurses uncertain about administering even basic first aid, raising concerns about student safety and liability.
Global Health Alerts
Bangladesh Battles Dual Dengue & Chikungunya Surge
Hospitals are struggling as dengue cases surpass 25,000 and chikungunya spreads rapidly. WHO warns climate-driven mosquito proliferation may fuel outbreaks across South Asia into late September.
Ebola Outbreak Declared in Kasai, DRC
32 suspected or confirmed cases, including 15 deaths, have been reported. WHO is deploying rapid response teams to contain the spread.
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Reinforce preventive care to address chronic disease and extend longevity.
- Support school nurses with clear parental consent policies.
- Screen travelers from South Asia for dengue/chikungunya and from Central Africa for Ebola symptoms.
