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King Charles unveils painful-looking injury while hosting French President Emmanuel Macron

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor
written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Royal Welcome: **Macron** Visits Windsor Castle

A historic state visit is underway as **President Emmanuel Macron** and his wife are hosted by the British royal family at Windsor Castle, marking the first such event at the residence in over a decade.

Royal Procession and Castle Lunch

The visit commenced with a royal carriage procession, with **King Charles**, the **Queen**, **Prince William**, and **Kate, the Princess of Wales**, accompanying the **Macrons**. Following the procession, the **Macrons** joined the royal family for lunch at Windsor Castle.

King Charles and **President Emmanuel Macron** arrive at the Ceremonial Welcome at Windsor Castle. Photo / Getty Images

A Symbolic Visit

This state visit is the first from France to the UK in almost 20 years, the last being **President Nicolas Sarkozy**’s visit in 2008. Notably, Windsor Castle is hosting the event instead of Buckingham Palace for the first time in more than ten years.

Ceremonial Duties and Parliamentary Address

Following lunch, **Macron** paid respects at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey. Afterwards, he addressed the British Parliament at the Palace of Westminster.

Gifts Reflecting Royal Interests

Four carefully chosen gifts were presented to the **King** by **Macron**, each reflecting **Charles’s** personal interests. These included a rare edition of Claude Debussy’s opera, Pelléas et Mélisande, featuring a handwritten dedication, and a ceremonial trumpet associated with the French National Guard.

Additional gifts included a personalised, luxury watercolour box and a gourmet hamper filled with sweet and savory delicacies from France.

Evening State Banquet

The highlight of the visit is a State Banquet at Windsor Castle, where **President Macron** and his wife will be the guests of honour. The UK-France relationship remains strong; in 2022, bilateral trade amounted to £79.7 billion, making France the UK’s fifth-largest trading partner (gov.uk).

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Health

Medan Measles Outbreak: 127 Cases in 5 Months

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

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Measles Outbreak Declared in Medan, North Sumatra: Cases Surge in 2025

Table of Contents

Medan, north Sumatra is experiencing a measles outbreak, with the Health Office (DHO) reporting a meaningful increase in cases. From January to May 2025, the city recorded 127 measles cases, a notable rise compared to the 104 cases reported in all of 2024. Health officials attribute the outbreak to low immunization coverage, particularly among elementary school children.

Measles Cases on the Rise

The Medan City health Office,through the Head of Disease Prevention and Control Division (P2P),Pocut Fatimah Fitri,confirmed the increase in measles cases. The surge has prompted increased vigilance and strategic interventions to control the spread of the highly contagious viral disease.

Did You Know? Measles cases are rising globally. The European Region reported over 127,000 cases in 2024, the highest number in over 25 years [1].

Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Transmission

Measles, caused by the Morbillivirus virus, is characterized by fever, sore throat, and a distinctive rash across the body. The infection begins in the respiratory tract and spreads through airborne saliva droplets. “This virus can be transmitted easily through droplets or splash of saliva from the mouth and nose of measles patients, which comes out when coughing, sneezing, or talking,” explained Pocut Fatimah Fitri.

Key Facts About Measles Transmission:

  • Highly contagious through respiratory droplets.
  • Spreads via coughing, sneezing, or talking.
  • Infection starts in the respiratory tract.

Low Immunization Coverage: A Major Trigger

According to Pocut, a primary factor contributing to the measles outbreak is the lack of sufficient immunization coverage, especially among elementary school children.low participation in the School Child Immunization Month Program (BIAS) has exacerbated the situation.

Pro Tip: Maintaining high vaccination rates is crucial to achieving herd immunity and protecting vulnerable populations from measles.

Prevention Through Vaccination

Measles is preventable through the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine. The Medan Health Office is intensifying the implementation of the BIAS program in elementary schools and Madrasah ibtidaiyah as a sustainable prevention strategy. The BIAS program is conducted twice annually, from August to November, providing measles immunization to first-grade students (

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Technology

Young Man in Simalungun Faces Stage 3B Rectal Cancer: A Heartbreaking Health Battle Unfolds

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

North Sumatra Man’s Years-Long Battle with Stage 3B Rectal Cancer

TIGA DOLOK, north Sumatra – Fourten Ary admaja Sinaga, a 28-year-old resident of Tiga Dolok, Simalungun, North Sumatra, is fighting stage 3B Stadium Rectum Cancer. Diagnosed in 2020 at just 23 years old, his journey has involved multiple treatments and health complications.His wife, Desika Sitorus, has been his constant support, navigating the complexities of his illness and treatment options. The initial symptoms began shortly after their marriage, marking the start of a challenging chapter in their lives.

Desika Sitorus, Ary’s wife, recalls the early signs of the illness. After two weeks of marriage, the husband experienced problems during defecation (BAB), she told AFP, detailing the onset of the distressing symptoms. the couple’s life was quickly consumed by the realities of cancer treatment and its impact on their daily lives.

Early Symptoms and Initial Diagnosis

The early symptoms where alarming and disruptive. Desika described the initial signs,stating,The husband’s chapter came out a little but continued to be accompanied by blood and yellow liquid sticking to the stool. Untill the long time the stool came out without being held back to use pampers while working becuase the eek continued to come out. This rapid deterioration prompted them to seek medical attention.

Adding to their concerns, Ary experienced dramatic and unexplained weight loss. His weight plummeted from 72 kg to 40 kg, despite maintaining a normal diet. This drastic change, coupled with the other symptoms, underscored the severity of his condition. Desika explained that due to his worsening condition, thay decided to seek medical help at Merauke Hospital in Papua.

The diagnostic process was lengthy and stressful. Biopsy waiting for a month to read it turns out that a malignant tumor in the rectum due to the limited treatment at Merauke Digstive Doctor Merauke suggested treatment at a hospital that had a hospital in big cities, Desika said, highlighting the limitations of local medical facilities and the need for specialized care. The wait for the biopsy results added to their anxiety and uncertainty.

Referrals and Initial Treatments

The couple then faced the challenge of finding appropriate medical care. What was finally referred to Medan to my hometown. Then we returned home to the three Dolok in 2021 because the husband’s condition was very alarming, she continued, illustrating the urgency and difficulty of navigating the healthcare system. The referral process was a critical step in getting Ary the specialized treatment he needed.

Initially, Ary sought traditional medicine in his village, but thes efforts proved unsuccessful. His condition continued to deteriorate, leading to further medical interventions. He was then rushed to the Harapan Hospital, Siantar, and later referred to Mitra Sejati Hospital. There, he underwent a major operation to create a stoma and another biopsy was performed. Following this, he was referred to Adam Malik Hospital in Medan for chemotherapy.

desika recounted the series of referrals, stating, then after a month referred to Adam Malik General Hospital for chemotherapy. This marked the beginning of an extensive and arduous treatment regimen. The chemotherapy was a significant step in attempting to combat the cancer.

Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Ary underwent an intensive chemotherapy regimen, consisting of eight cycles every two weeks over six months. Despite these efforts, evaluations revealed that the malignant tumor remained. Undeterred, the medical team continued with a second chemotherapy regimen for another six months, maintaining the same cycle frequency. Sadly, this also failed to yield positive results.

The next phase of treatment involved radiotherapy, with Ary undergoing 25 sessions over more than a month. However, the tumor persisted, showing no signs of receding. Desika also mentioned that her husband underwent 24 oral chemotherapy sessions, but these, too, did not produce significant improvements. The third regimen lasted almost eight months but did not provide the expected results due to tumor adhesions. The doctors then added 12 more chemotherapy cycles, which are still ongoing.

Additional Health Complications

Initially, Ary was able to continue working as an online motorcycle taxi driver when he wasn’t undergoing chemotherapy. However,his health took a turn for the worse in early 2024. early in 2024 the husband worsened due to kidney stones and tuberculosis, it turned out that when it was operated on the 7th month of 2024, his kidney stones were appointed to have spread to the bladder and when inspected by the tuberculosis had also spread to the lungs of the cancer starting from there her husband was getting worse until now which made him not working anymore, Desika explained, highlighting the cascade of health issues that have further intricate his condition.

The cumulative effect of these ailments has significantly impacted Ary’s quality of life. Now the husband’s condition has been very alarming recently, CT scan again as there is a narrowing in the Ambung that is still being sought knowing what is the swelling of the kidneys and liver that for the husband does not want to eat anymore difficult to walk and always in pain, she added, painting a grim picture of his current state. The additional health problems have made his battle even more challenging.

Genetic Predisposition

Desika believes that genetic factors may have contributed to Ary’s rectal cancer. She revealed that Ary’s father had gastric cancer and eventually passed away from the disease.This family history suggests a potential genetic predisposition to cancer within the family.

Conclusion

Fourten Ary admaja Sinaga’s battle with Stage 3B Stadium Rectum Cancer is a testament to the challenges faced by individuals battling serious illnesses. His journey, marked by numerous treatments, complications, and unwavering support from his wife, Desika Sitorus, underscores the importance of early detection, extensive medical care, and continued research in the fight against cancer. As Ary continues his treatment, his story serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of patients and their families in the face of adversity.

The Grueling Battle Against Rectal Cancer: A Medical Expert Weighs In

Rectal cancer, while less common than colon cancer, presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading oncologist specializing in colorectal cancers, provides insights into the complexities of this disease.

Senior Editor (SE): Dr. Sharma, the case of Fourten Ary Admaja Sinaga highlights a protracted struggle with Stage 3B rectal cancer. What are some of the specific challenges associated with this advanced stage of the disease?

Dr. Sharma (DS): Stage 3B rectal cancer signifies that the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, making complete surgical removal more challenging. This advanced stage frequently enough necessitates a multimodal approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.The proximity of the rectum to critical structures like the bladder and nerves adds critically significant complexity to surgical procedures, increasing the risk of complications like incontinence or sexual dysfunction. Treatment decisions are highly individualized, considering the patient’s overall health, tumor characteristics, and response to therapy during each phase.

SE: The article details Mr. Sinaga’s experience with multiple treatment regimens, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, yet the tumor persisted. Why might these treatments not always be effective in cases like his?

DS: Sadly,not all cancers respond equally well to standard treatments. Tumor heterogeneity,meaning the cancer cells themselves are diverse in their genetic makeup and behaviour,contributes to treatment resistance. Some cancerous cells might be intrinsically resistant to chemotherapy drugs or radiation, allowing them to survive and proliferate. The presence of tumor adhesions, as mentioned in Mr. Sinaga’s case, can further hamper the effectiveness of treatment.The adhesions essentially bind the tumor to surrounding tissues,making it arduous to surgically remove fully or for chemotherapy drugs to penetrate effectively to eradicate all cancer cells. Moreover, advanced stages frequently enough involve microscopic cancer spread that’s undetectable, requiring long and consistent treatments to manage.

SE: Mr. Sinaga experienced significant weight loss, a common symptom frequently enough linked to cancer. What are the mechanisms by which cancer causes weight loss, and what should individuals be aware of?

DS: Unintentional weight loss in cancer patients is a complex problem with multiple potential causes. Cancer cells compete with healthy cells for nutrient resources, leading to malnourishment. This is often exacerbated by the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy, reducing appetite and causing digestive issues. Furthermore, the production of inflammation-promoting substances by the tumor, coupled with metabolic changes induced by the disease, can contribute to significant weight loss. Individuals should be vigilant about any unexplained weight loss, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue, changes in bowel habits, or persistent abdominal discomfort. prompt medical evaluation is crucial to determine the underlying cause.

SE: The article mentions the potential impact of genetics. How significant is a family history of cancer, such as Mr. Sinaga’s father’s history of gastric cancer, in assessing an individual’s risk factors for rectal cancer?

DS: A family history of cancer, notably colorectal cancers, significantly increases the risk of developing the disease.While not a guarantee of disease occurrence, it highlights a genetic predisposition. Genetic testing might reveal specific gene mutations that suggest an increased likelihood of developing certain cancers. Knowing your family medical history is vital as a preventative strategy. Early detection screening—colonoscopies and other relevant screenings—should begin earlier and more frequently with genetic predispositions.

SE: What are some key takeaways for individuals seeking preventive measures against colorectal cancers?

DS:

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, coupled with regular exercise, is vital.
  • Limit red and processed meat consumption: These are associated with increased risk.
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both increase cancer risks.
  • Follow recommended screening guidelines: Beginning at age 45 (or earlier if family history exists).
  • Know your family medical history: Discuss any cancer histories with your physician to provide a extensive overview of personal risk.

SE: What is the outlook for patients with stage 3B rectal cancer?

DS: The prognosis for stage 3B rectal cancer varies, depending on several individual factors. Advances in treatment strategies, including improved chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies, have improved outcomes significantly. While it remains a serious condition,early detection and treatment adherence are crucial for better long-term survival rates. Regular follow-up care is also essential in detecting any recurrence after primary treatment. The data in this interview is for general knowledge and should not substitute professional medical advice.

In closing,Mr. Sinaga’s story,while challenging,highlights the importance of early detection,advanced treatment options,and the unwavering support systems that patients need during such battles.The resilience of individuals and families facing this disease is truly inspiring.

The silent Struggle: Unraveling the Complexities of Rectal Cancer with Leading Oncologist dr. Anya Sharma

Did you know that rectal cancer,while less prevalent than colon cancer,presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment that frequently enough lead to prolonged battles for patients like Fourten Ary Admaja Sinaga? Let’s delve into this critical health issue with Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading oncologist specializing in colorectal cancers.

Senior Editor (SE): Dr. Sharma, Mr. Sinaga’s case highlights a prolonged and arduous fight against stage 3B rectal cancer. Can you explain the specific difficulties associated with this advanced stage?

Dr. Sharma (DS): Stage 3B rectal cancer signifies that the cancerous cells have metastasized to nearby lymph nodes,considerably complicating complete surgical resection. This advanced stage often necessitates a multimodal approach, expertly combining surgical intervention, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The rectum’s proximity to crucial structures such as the bladder and nerves adds a layer of meaningful complexity to surgical procedures, increasing the risk of complications including bowel incontinence or sexual dysfunction. Treatment strategies are highly personalized, carefully considering the patient’s overall health, the unique characteristics of the tumor itself, and the response observed during each phase of therapy. Treatment planning for rectal cancer at this stage is a truly nuanced and detailed undertaking.

SE: The article details Mr. Sinaga’s experiance with various treatment regimens, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy; yet, the tumor persisted. Why might these treatments prove ineffective in some instances?

DS: Sadly, not all cancers respond equally to standard treatment protocols. Tumor heterogeneity—the diversity in the genetic makeup and behavior of cancer cells within a single tumor—contributes substantially to treatment resistance. Some cancer cells may inherently resist chemotherapy drugs or radiation,enabling them to continue proliferating while others are eradicated. The presence of tumor adhesions, as noted in mr. Sinaga’s case, further impedes treatment effectiveness. These adhesions essentially bind the tumor to surrounding tissues, making complete surgical removal incredibly challenging and hindering the penetration of chemotherapy drugs. Advanced stages often involve subclinical or microscopic disease spread; therefore,prolonged and consistent treatment is often a necessity.

SE: Mr.Sinaga experienced substantial weight loss, a common symptom associated with cancer. what are the primary mechanisms through which cancer induces weight loss, and what should individuals be aware of?

DS: Unintended weight loss in cancer patients is a multifaceted problem with several contributing factors. Cancer cells aggressively compete with healthy cells for essential nutrients, leading to malnutrition. This is frequently exacerbated by the side effects of treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy,which can suppress appetite and disrupt the digestive system. Moreover, the tumor’s production of pro-inflammatory substances, along with disease-induced metabolic shifts, significantly contributes to weight loss. Individuals should remain vigilant about any unexplained weight loss, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as persistent fatigue, altered bowel habits, or ongoing abdominal discomfort. Immediate medical evaluation is essential in determining the root cause.

SE: The article mentions a potential genetic predisposition, given Mr. Sinaga’s father’s history of gastric cancer.How significant is family history in assessing an individual’s risk for rectal cancer?

DS: A family history of cancer, especially colorectal cancers, significantly elevates the risk of developing the disease.While not a certainty, it strongly suggests a hereditary predisposition.Genetic testing can reveal specific gene mutations that indicate an increased likelihood of developing certain cancers. Understanding your family’s medical history is a crucial preventive measure. Individuals with a family history should undergo early detection screening, such as colonoscopies, more frequently and at an earlier age.

SE: What are some key preventive measures individuals can take to reduce their colorectal cancer risk?

DS: prevention is key. Here are some crucial steps:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, combined with regular physical activity, is paramount.

Limit red and processed meat consumption: These are linked to an increased cancer risk.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both significantly increase cancer risk.

Adhere to recommended screening guidelines: Screening should begin at age 45 or earlier if a family history exists.

* Know your family medical history: Discuss cancer history with your doctor for a comprehensive risk assessment.

SE: What is the outlook for patients diagnosed with stage 3B rectal cancer?

DS: The prognosis for stage 3B rectal cancer is variable and depends on numerous individual factors. Improvements in treatment strategies, including advanced chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies, have significantly enhanced outcomes. While it remains a serious condition, early detection and diligent adherence to treatment protocols are crucial for better long-term survival rates. Ongoing post-treatment monitoring is also essential for promptly detecting any recurrence. Remember, this information is for general knowledge and should not replace professional medical advice.

SE: In closing, what key takeaways would you like to leave our readers with regarding rectal cancer?

DS: Mr. Sinaga’s story underscores the importance of early detection, advanced treatment options, and the invaluable support systems crucial for patients grappling with this disease. The resilience demonstrated by individuals and their families facing this challenge is truly inspiring. Early detection truly saves lives, and proactive preventive measures alongside regular screening are incredibly vital to combat this disease.

what are your thoughts on Mr. Sinaga’s story, and what questions do you have about rectal cancer prevention and treatment? Share your insights in the comments below!

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News

On suspicion of child abuse, a daycare worker in Medan has been arrested by the police

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com


While –

A 1.3-year-old baby was reportedly abused by a caregiver at a daycare center in Medan City, North Sumatra (North Sumatra). Now the nanny has been arrested by police officers.

Reported detik North SumatraThursday (10/10), Head of the PPA Unit of the Medan Police Criminal Investigation Unit, Inspector Dearma Sinaga, said that his party had received a report from the victim’s parents. The reported caretaker was also detained yesterday afternoon for questioning.

“We have arrested the reported person this afternoon,” Dearma said when confirmed detik North SumatraWednesday (9/10/2024).

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Dearma did not specify the identity of the caretaker. His legal status is also unknown at this time.

The parents of the victim, CA (28), said their child had only been in day care for two months. Cici received several reports from her sister regarding the babysitter’s harsh treatment of her child.

On another day, Cici found suspected bruise marks on the victim’s chest. Because the daycare owner did not have good intentions regarding the incident, according to him, he decided to report it to the Medan Police on October 2.

Read more here

(one/one)

2024-10-09 19:04:00


#suspicion #child #abuse #daycare #worker #Medan #arrested #police

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Health

Talented Youth Charity YMM Lastwish works for HIV/Aids children – Beritaind News

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

While – The founder of the Maria Monique Lastwish Foundation (YMM Lastwish) Natalia Tjahja together with the Chairman of YP ADHA (Children with HIV / Aids Care Foundation) Saurma MGP Siahaan performed charity activities on September 28, 2024 at Hermina Hospital, Medan.

The event was opened by the Medical Director of the RSU Hermina Medan Dr. Irvan Veryadi and present was L Marsudi Utomo as the Head of HIV/Aids Control Commission Programs Division for North Sumatra Province and Medan City.

“Stigma and discrimination remain very high due to concerns about transmission, ignorance of transmission and lack of empathy. In fact, ADHA children are usually victims who were already born with the virus because it was transmitted by their mother at birth. Then there are also victims of sexual harassment.”

If pregnant women are screened, they will be treated immediately and their children can be protected from this virus.

Therefore YP ADHA still calls for screening of pregnant women so that ADHA does not continue to increase. The numbers are increasing at the moment.

Several years ago, 3 students in Samosir were expelled from public schools because they feared they would infect other children, once their ADHA status was revealed.

“There have even been experiences when people were kicked out of their villages and their houses burned because they were afraid of passing the virus to residents,” said Saurma Siahaan.

“Everything is from and for God. YMM Lastwish invites teenagers to share love with HIV children. “We have the YMM Lastwish program, which is talented teenagers giving charity to the world,” said Natalia Tjahja.

“This youth charity program started with the dedication of brothers Jaythaneal Sutrisno (Jaythan) and Jadrianna Sutrisno (Jady) from Rumah Innovation who gave their hearts and savings to YMM Lastwish charity activities. They support us regularly and in large numbers. “Then followed by Daniella Citra (Rhea), Tristan Purawinata (Singapore), Laetitia Purawinata (America), Warren G Sebastian (Taiwan), Morgan J Gotama (Morgan),” said YMM founder Lastwish.

When New Jeans in Korea, Black Pink, then YMM Lastwish has a group of teenagers who give charity to the world. Jaythan, Jady, Rhea, Warren, Tristan, Laetitia and Morgan.

Teenagers gave 50 HIV/Aids children happiness gifts such as sports and glam watches, sweater suits, unique bags, Korean women’s bags, accessories, skin care, costume players, football tents, keyboards, Bocorocco shoes, football equipment basket and others.

Daniella Citra (Rhea) contacted Kalbe Farma and Kalbe gave milk to children under the age of 12. Happy smiles of HIV children and their mothers at this event.

The YMM Lastwish family, namely JW Marriott Medan, also participated by serving lunch at the event.

“YMM Lastwish has been helping disabled people and ADHA in Medan and North Sumatra for a long time and this is a great effort from Miss Natalia Tjahja,” said Saurma Siahaan, chairman of YP ADHA.

“I thank Mrs. Nawal Lubis (Trustee of YP ADHA), Hermina Hospital Medan, Bocorocco Shoes, Harnoto Darsono family. “Thank you for the loyalty of Saurma Siahaan in implementing the mission and vision of YMM Lastwish for its charitable activities in North Sumatra,” said Natalia Tjahja, closing this event.

You might be interested in it

2024-09-30 02:50:41
#Talented #Youth #Charity #YMM #Lastwish #works #HIVAids #children #Beritaind #News

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Health

It’s time to get the new vaccines against covid and flu

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

Washington – Fall means it’s time for almost everyone to catch up on their flu and Covid-19 vaccines, and many older adults also need protection against another risky winter virus, RSV.

Yes, you can receive the flu and Covid-19 vaccines at the same time. Don’t call them boosters: They’re not just another dose of last year’s protection. Coronavirus and flu are escape artists, constantly mutating to evade the body’s immune defenses, so both vaccines are reformulated annually to target newer strains.

“Now is the best time” to get all recommended fall vaccines, said Dr. Mandy Cohen, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while getting her flu shot Wednesday. You also have an appointment to receive your Covid-19 vaccine. It is “the most effective thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and your community.”

While not perfect, vaccines offer strong protection against getting a severe case of the flu or Covid-19 (or dying from it).

“It may not prevent all infections, but those infections will be less serious,” said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis of the CDC. “I would rather my grandmother or great-grandmother have a cold than have to go to the emergency room on Thanksgiving Day.”

The challenge: getting more Americans to get the vaccine. Last year, only 45 percent of adults got vaccinated against the flu and an even smaller percentage, 23 percent, got vaccinated against Covid-19. A survey released Wednesday by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases shows that a similarly low number intend to get vaccinated this fall.

And the coronavirus killed more Americans than the flu last year.

“We may think it’s not going to be my turn, but let’s not take any chances,” said Dr. Michael Knight of George Washington University. “Why not get a vaccine that helps reduce that risk?”

Who needs to get vaccinated against covid-19 or the flu in the fall?

The CDC recommends that everyone over 6 months of age receive the updated Covid-19 vaccine and the annual flu vaccine. If you recently had Covid-19, you can wait two to three months, but you should still get the updated vaccine due to the expected increase in cases in winter.

Both viruses can be especially dangerous for certain groups, such as older people and those with weak immune systems and lung or heart diseases. Young children are also more vulnerable. The CDC counted 199 childhood flu deaths last year.

Pregnancy also increases the chances of contracting a serious illness such as Covid-19 or the flu, and vaccination protects the mother and also ensures that the newborn also has some protection.

What’s new in vaccines against covid-19?

Last fall’s vaccines targeted a strain of coronavirus that is no longer spreading, while this year’s are designed for a new section of the coronavirus family tree. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are formulated against a subtype of virus called KP.2, while the Novavax vaccine is directed against its original strain, JN.1. Daskalakis said they should all offer good cross-protection against other subtypes that are now spreading.

The Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines can be used by adults and children 6 months and older. The Novavax vaccine is a more traditional protein vaccine combined with an immune booster and is open to anyone 12 years of age or older.

Which flu vaccine to choose?

There are high-dose vaccines and one with a special immune booster designed for people 65 and older, but if they can’t find one easily, they can choose a regular flu vaccine for all ages.

For those who do not inject any vaccines, FluMist nasal spray is available in pharmacies and clinics for children between 2 and 49 years old, although next year it will be available for home use.

All of this year’s flu vaccines will protect against two strains of flu type A and one strain of flu type B. Another form of flu type B, once common, stopped spreading a few years ago and was removed from the vaccine.

What about the other virus, RSV?

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is a cold-like nuisance for most people, but it also fills hospitals each winter and can be deadly for children under 5, the elderly, and people with certain high-risk health problems. risk.

The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for everyone age 75 and older and for people ages 60 to 74 who are at higher risk. It is a one-time vaccine, not an annual one, but only 24 percent of seniors received it last year. It is also recommended in late pregnancy to protect babies born during the fall and winter.

And while “your arm may hurt and you may feel sick for a day,” it’s also okay to get RSV, flu and Covid-19 vaccines at the same time, Daskalakis said.

How much will it cost?

Vaccines are supposed to be free under Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans if people use an in-network provider.

Last year, about 1.5 million uninsured adults received free Covid-19 vaccines through a federal program, but that program has since ended. Instead, the CDC is providing $62 million to health departments to help improve access, and states and big cities are starting to put their plans into action.

Call your local health department to ask about options because, in many areas, “vaccine availability at lower or no cost is expected to begin to appear in the coming weeks,” Dr. Raynard Washington advised. who heads the health department of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

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