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MEDICAL NEWS

Orange County to begin aerial spraying for mosquitos Wednesday
The Alafaya, Apopka, Bithlo, Dr. Phillips, Fort Christmas, Lake Nona, and Wedgefield areas will receive the treatment.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Monday, Oct 21 2024

8-time cancer survivor shares journey, works at hospital that saved her life
Linda Davey credits self-exams and regular doctors visits as her savior.

Source: Erin Murray
Saturday, Oct 19 2024

Tampa Bay area communities face health risks after back-to-back hurricanes leave behind mold
Experts say people with allergies or respiratory problems face a higher risk of illness from mold.

Source: Fadia Patterson
Thursday, Oct 17 2024

Health officials advising to avoid floodwaters as flesh-eating bacteria cases rise
Pinellas County is leading the state in cases of Vibrio vulnificus, a type of bacterial infection also known as flesh-eating bacteria.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Thursday, Oct 17 2024

Volusia County nonprofit brings health care to the Hispanic community
Hispanic Health Initiatives addresses the unmet health needs of Hispanics and other medically disadvantaged populations in Volusia County.

Source: Massiel Leyva
Monday, Oct 14 2024

AdventHealth: 67 babies born as Milton swept across Florida
AdventHealth's Tampa-area hospitals recorded the most births, with 32 born during the storm.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Friday, Oct 11 2024

When in doubt, throw it out: Food safety during a power outage
If the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Thursday, Oct 10 2024

Orlando Fire implements new overnight alarm system to try to limit health risks for crews
Now only crews whose units need to respond are awoken, helping them get more sleep.

Source: Katie Streit
Monday, Sep 30 2024

Transgender Floridians pivot with statewide health care changes
A federal appeals court ruling now allows Florida to enforce restrictions on gender transition care for minors.

Source: Katie Streit
Monday, Sep 30 2024

Orlando Fire Department firefighter helps change the mindset of mental health in the fire service
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation says, an increasing number of firefighters die by suicide.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, Sep 25 2024

Orange County approves medical debt relief plan, county residents react
Around 150,000 individuals could be eligible.

Source: Devin Martin
Tuesday, Sep 24 2024

CDC reports overdose deaths on the decline in Florida
According to the CDC, Florida saw a 12.6% drop in overdose deaths during the 12-month period from April 2023 to April 2024.

Source: Cait McVey
Wednesday, Sep 18 2024

Music fest in Bradenton to raise money for suicide awareness and prevention
Beth Vandal says she came up with the idea of a music fest to raise money and awareness after losing someone to suicide.

Source: Jason Lanning
Friday, Sep 13 2024

Deep brain stimulation helping Tampa-area residents with Parkinson's
Wayne MacLaughlin, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2011, says he’s benefitting from deep brain stimulation.

Source: Melissa Eichman
Wednesday, Sep 11 2024

USF Alzheimer’s study aims to show if brain exercises can prevent cognitive decline
Researchers are in need of 600 more participants from the Tampa Bay area.

Source: Cait McVey
Monday, Sep 09 2024

HUD awards Orlando nonprofit $1.22M to help low-income seniors
The Center for Independent Living in Central Florida is one of three nonprofits to receive grant funds to help with home repair services for seniors.

Source: Sasha Teman
Saturday, Sep 07 2024

Shipping container farm in Citra feeds University of Florida campus community
A research project in Citra yields hundreds of heads of lettuce weekly.

Source: Julie Gargotta
Friday, Sep 06 2024

Melbourne 'Out of the Darkness' walk to raise suicide prevention awareness
The walk in Melbourne will be held on Nov. 2 at Wickham Park.

Source: Greg Pallone
Wednesday, Sep 04 2024

Male OB nurse breaks gender barries at AdventHealth Ocala
Bobby Bickler, a husband and father of four daughters, has been bringing comfort and care for five years now in the Labor & Delivery Unit.

Source: Erin Murray
Monday, Sep 02 2024

Mosquito Control targeting rare cases of dengue fever in Orange County
Two people in the northwest Orange County have become infected with dengue fever who did not travel outside of the country.

Source: Randy Rauch
Friday, Aug 30 2024

AARP releases report on Medicare Part D out-of-pocket spending cap for prescription drugs
AARP supported the proposal that President Joe Biden signed in 2022.

Source: Corina Cappabianca
Wednesday, Aug 28 2024

Orange County health officials encourage preventative measures against mosquito-borne illness
Officials say two cases of dengue fever were reported from local transmission, and two travel-related Oropouche virus cases have been confirmed.

Source: Jaclyn Harold
Wednesday, Aug 28 2024

Florida now ranks second for fentanyl overdoses nationwide
Families share stories of loved ones lost to fentanyl to help others.

Source: Sarah Blazonis
Thursday, Aug 22 2024

Blue-green algae detected in New Smyrna Beach's Lake Ashby
Blue-green algae is a type of potentially dangerous bacteria that is not uncommon in Florida’s freshwater environments.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Wednesday, Aug 21 2024

Manatee County nurse deals with rare stiff-person syndrome diagnosis
There are treatments for the condition, but no cure.

Source: Saundra Weathers
Sunday, Aug 18 2024

Florida lawmakers propose public smoking ban that could impact Amendment 3
Sarasota Republican Sen. Joe Gruters is spearheading the proposed public smoking ban.

Source: Jason Delgado
Friday, Aug 16 2024

Why are mosquitoes so obsessed with you?
We all hate mosquitoes, but why do some people get bitten more than others?

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Wednesday, Aug 14 2024

Orange County leaders approve plan to wipe medical debts
Funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Source: Randy Rauch
Tuesday, Aug 13 2024

Infant formula sold at H-E-B, CVS recalled for high vitamin D levels
The affected formula was sold under generic store brands CVS Health and H-E-B Baby

Source: Christine Sanchez
Tuesday, Aug 13 2024

Third person dies from listeria outbreak linked to deli meats
The Centers for Disease Control said Thursday 43 people have been hospitalized.

Source: Susan Carpenter
Thursday, Aug 08 2024

Central Florida's newest medical school opens up; welcomes 1st class of 97 students
The first day of school for Central Florida’s newest medical school is on Monday.

Source: Maria Serrano
Wednesday, Aug 07 2024

Exploring Your Health: Curing Our Classrooms
Improving the health of public school infrastructure could lead to better learning outcomes

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Wednesday, Aug 07 2024

School buildings are sick. What's the cure?
Aging infrastructure in U.S. public schools may contribute to illness and learning loss

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Wednesday, Aug 07 2024

Investing in healthier school buildings may improve public education
Improving air quality, natural light and other environmental factors can lead to better test scores

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Friday, Aug 02 2024

Ocala woman celebrates 10 years of sobriety by spreading the message that recovery is possible
The 2022 United States National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that 46.8 million Americans battled a substance use disorder in 2021.

Source: Katie Streit
Friday, Aug 02 2024

Study: Gen X, Millennials at higher risk for developing 17 cancers
They looked at people ages 25-84 from Jan. 1, 2000, to Dec. 31., 2019.

Source: Cody Thompson
Thursday, Aug 01 2024

Pharmacy stocks up on COVID-19 tests as Florida cases rise
Over 38,000 Floridians tested positive in June, the most since February.

Source: Destiny Wiggins
Sunday, Jul 28 2024

Expert: Affected scallops pose paralytic shellfish poisoning risk
While the waters off Pasco County are open to boating, swimming, and fishing, the FWC has temporarily closed the recreational bay scallop season.

Source: Angie Angers
Friday, Jul 26 2024

Booties, indoor dog parks — and following the vet’s orders. How to keep pets cool this summer
Sunburns, paw blisters and heat stroke are all possible when temperatures climb.

Source: Associated Press
Thursday, Jul 25 2024

USF OB-GYN studies how space travel affects women’s health
It's an understudied part of the field because there have been so few female astronauts.

Source: Jeff Butera
Wednesday, Jul 24 2024

Parathyroid surgery at Tampa General Hospital gives kidney transplant patient new hope
The surgery has bought Dr. Sara Karjoo a bit more time as she sits on the transplant waiting list.

Source: Erin Murray
Wednesday, Jul 24 2024

Pastor helping others with pandemic-related mental health struggles
Rico Sharp says after his own personal losses, he became determined to help others.

Source: Jeff Allen
Tuesday, Jul 23 2024

Free back-to-school immunization events across Central Florida
Here’s where you can go to get free shots across Central Florida.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Thursday, Jul 11 2024

Winter Park nonprofit helping Central Florida widows overcome struggles
According to the Modern Widows Club, there are 36,500 widows in Orange County.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Thursday, Jul 11 2024

Lynx partners with Orange County to offer free bus rides to cooling locations during heat advisories
On Tuesday, Orange County officials started delivering flyers to homeless camps to let people know about the program.

Source: Maria Serrano
Tuesday, Jul 09 2024

Everyday Hero riding her way to a cure for Alzheimer’s disease
Julie Jaworski aims to raise $50,000 this year.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Monday, Jul 08 2024

National Federation of the Blind hosts 84th annual convention in Orlando
The convention aims to provide resources, support and a sense of community.

Source: Destiny Wiggins
Saturday, Jul 06 2024

Hospital sees spike in patients with heat-related illnesses
Symptoms include fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness.

Source: Fadia Patterson
Wednesday, Jul 03 2024

Florida nonprofit encourages HIV testing beyond Pride Month
According to the latest numbers from the CDC, 13% of Floridians with HIV are unaware of their status.

Source: Saundra Weathers
Tuesday, Jul 02 2024

Company recalls smoked salmon sold at Kroger
The salmon has been sold at Kroger locations in multiple states.

Source: Lydia Taylor
Wednesday, Jun 26 2024

Share the Care in Orlando provides adult daycare for seniors
Currently, one out of six citizens are seniors, and those numbers are expected to grow.

Source: Randy Rauch
Tuesday, Jun 25 2024

SNAP benefit recipients face more requirements under new Florida law
The new law takes effect July 1st.

Source: Jeff Allen
Tuesday, Jun 25 2024

Florida Democrats fix eyes on abortion protections ahead of 2024 election
Florida Democrats are fixing their eyes on an ammendment that would protect abortion access up to roughly 24 weeks.

Source: Jason Delgado
Monday, Jun 24 2024

Bay area father creates documentary, calls on lawmakers to address rise in fentanyl deaths
Michael Ortoll made a full-length documentary about her late daughter's life and the fentanyl crisis facing the United States.

Source: Jeff Van Sant
Friday, Jun 21 2024

Central Florida therapist says social media warning labels would be beneficial
A therapist says these warning labels would provide public awareness on the negative effects of social media.

Source: Maria Serrano
Tuesday, Jun 18 2024

New cancer progress report details deadly disparities
There are still some glaring gaps when it comes to cancer care and minorities.

Source: Saundra Weathers
Monday, Jun 17 2024

As school districts confront surge in vaping, Volusia County teen talks overcoming addiction
Volusia County Schools reported an 80% jump during a three-month period between 2023 and 2024.

Source: Massiel Leyva
Monday, Jun 17 2024

Children's Home Society of Florida helps connect kids to needed resources
The group has helped several families, like the Lohmars, as they work to raise awareness surrounding how services can be accessed.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Sunday, Jun 16 2024

'I want the stigma to change': Mom talks using medical marijuana for chronic illness
The federal government is in the midst of taking steps to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug.

Source: Katie Streit
Saturday, Jun 15 2024

'We can get our patients back': Nurse practitioner lauds overturn of transgender health care restrictions
The governor’s office says it will appeal the ruling.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, Jun 12 2024

World record holder for living underwater now working to help veterans with brain injuries at USF
When he came up from the water last year, Dr. Joseph Dituri told us that he may have discovered benefits from breathing that pressurized air.

Source: Nick Popham
Sunday, Jun 09 2024

June 6 marks Florida's 1st Revive Awareness Day
Event organizers say they want people to recognize opioid misuse and how naloxone can save lives.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Thursday, Jun 06 2024

Central Florida nonprofit medical practice expanding to Lakeland and Kissimmee
One of PrideFest’s sponsors is a Central Florida nonprofit medical practice that serves everyone with a target to fill a need in the LGBTQ+ community.

Source: Maria Serrano
Friday, May 31 2024

Tips on how to emotionally prepare for hurricane season
There are also ways to manage the fear and anxiety that can come with severe weather.

Source: Melissa Eichman
Friday, May 31 2024

5-star discovery: Study co-authored by University of South Florida professor shows how our brains mess with online ratings
People give more credit to "star ratings" than they do "numerical ratings," according to a USF professor.

Source: Jeff Butera
Thursday, May 30 2024

Early genetic testing could help children with autism
Knowing more about the genetic mutations that cause autism can help children get personalized treatment.

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Thursday, May 30 2024

After search for autistic teen, special needs educator talks 'elopement' strategies
She hopes with time there will be more resources for non-verbal kids.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, May 29 2024

Dave’s House to expand housing for those with mental health needs to Seminole County
The new location will be able to house 39 people.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Tuesday, May 28 2024

Clermont therapist addresses access to mental health in area
Providers hope to see more accessibility not only in Clermont, but its surrounding towns.

Source: Katie Streit
Sunday, May 26 2024

Pinellas County officials say it will be 6 months before a determination can be made about Childs Park mystery odor
Residents in the Childs Park neighborhood say they have been living with a concerning smell.

Source: Saundra Weathers
Tuesday, May 21 2024

Medical transportation a struggle for AAPI seniors in Central Florida
It's an issue that can lead to infrequent medical visits, cultural barriers, and medical insurance, which can all threaten their health.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Monday, May 20 2024

New Winter Park grant challenge offered for local health-focused nonprofits
The application window runs through May 15.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Tuesday, May 14 2024

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott hosts roundtable on fentanyl in Kissimmee
Law enforcement and organization leaders attended the discussion.

Source: Asher Wildman
Saturday, May 11 2024

AAPI advocate has renewed mission after kidney transplant
An Orlando man made the most of his time while waiting for a life-saving organ.

Source: Jeff Allen
Tuesday, May 07 2024

Dermatology group in Central Florida offering free checks for melanoma today
Thirteen locations seek to call attention to melanoma.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Monday, May 06 2024

Central Florida medical student says Florida's changing abortion laws and exemptions are concerning
Emergency abortion rules were issued this week.

Source: Randy Rauch
Friday, May 03 2024

2024 Melissa's Race to Battle Brain Cancer ambassador gears up for Saturday's event in Sanford
This is the ninth year of the race has been held.

Source: Jaclyn Harold
Friday, May 03 2024

State agency publishes flyer on abortion regulations, tackling what they say is "myth"
There are mixed opinions on Florida’s new six-week abortion ban and the impact it may have on women and clinics, which operate statewide.

Source: Jason Delgado
Thursday, May 02 2024

As new 6-week abortion restriction begins, advocates spread competing messages outside Orlando clinic
Some abortion-rights advocates say clinics will now have to turn more people away.

Source: Devin Martin, Katie Streit
Wednesday, May 01 2024

Some say Florida's 6-week abortion ban doesn't go far enough
The six-week abortion ban goes into effect Wednesday.

Source: Randy Rauch
Tuesday, Apr 30 2024

Walmart to close its 51 health centers, virtual care service
Almost half of the health centers shutting down are in Florida.

Source: Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press
Tuesday, Apr 30 2024

Groups push to get Florida Medicaid benefits expanded
Right now in Florida, if you make more than $19,000 a year, you likely won't qualify for Medicaid.

Source: Jeff Allen
Friday, Apr 26 2024

The pickleball craze is getting people active – but injury prevention is key
Pickleball is a fast-growing racket sport. There are significant benefits to be had, but it’s important to make sure your body is ready.

Source: Erin Billups - National Health Reporter
Thursday, Apr 25 2024

Florida health care providers adjust to largest U.S. drug shortage list in recorded history
Pharmacies and pharmacists say they are working to manage their inventory in the midst of the shortage.

Source: Melissa Eichman
Wednesday, Apr 24 2024

Former nursing home admin says federal mandate will only worsen labor problem
The mandate requires a certain amount of care per resident.

Source: Lizbeth Gutierrez
Tuesday, Apr 23 2024

Florida hemp industry could face an uncertain future
SB 1698, if signed into law, would cap the potency of THC in hemp products.

Source: Jeff Van Sant
Monday, Apr 22 2024

Autism cases in minorities being diagnosed more frequently
There are many barriers for families who are looking to get help for their autistic child.

Source: Lizbeth Gutierrez
Saturday, Apr 20 2024

Black Maternal Health: Advocacy, awareness and answers
We are sharing the personal stories, highlighting the racial disparities during what is supposed to be the most magical time of our lives: childbirth.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Wednesday, Apr 17 2024

Saving moms: 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, says Orlando clinic founder
Jennie Joseph is the Founder and President of Commonsense Childbirth, and says education and help are available for better outcomes.

Source: Tammie Fields
Wednesday, Apr 17 2024

Black Maternal Health Week events wrap up, but work continues
Mothers and educators are continuing to tell their stories and raise awareness for equality in Black Maternal Health.

Source: Saundra Weathers
Wednesday, Apr 17 2024

Experts say more diversity is needed in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials
Research shows Black Americans are significantly underrepresented in Alzheimer's clinical trials

Source: Cait McVey
Tuesday, Apr 16 2024

UCF alumni paves the way in neuroplasticity field
Neuroplasticity is a relatively newer science, it’s the study that the brain can change and is in a constant state of evolving.

Source: Katie Streit
Tuesday, Apr 16 2024

'My whole world came to a halt, and I was filled with fear': Breast cancer survivor shares life and hair saving treatment journey
After being diagnosed with breast cancer a year ago, Raquel Giorgio took a chance on a newer treatment in hopes of saving her hair throughout chemo.

Source: Jaclyn Harold
Saturday, Apr 13 2024

HCA Florida heart transplant recipient celebrates each day
Kathleen Hornbecker, 76, says every day she give thanks to the person and their family that gave her her new heart.

Source: Erin Murray
Wednesday, Apr 10 2024

More young boys are battling eating disorders, says study
Pediatricians in the Tampa Bay area have seen it firsthand.

Source: Melissa Eichman
Wednesday, Apr 10 2024

Teen relearning to speak after a Percocet laced with fentanyl put him in a coma
Angel Pagan went into cardiac arrest after he bought a Percocet laced with fentanyl when he was 16.

Source: Asher Wildman
Tuesday, Apr 09 2024

Orlando doctor says state law restricting transgender care has created patient waitlists
How restricting transgender care has affected Central Floridans

Source: Katie Streit
Monday, Apr 08 2024

Breast cancer survivor volunteers for Lake County's 'Bras for the Cause'
Gigi Capria survived stage 3 breast cancer.

Source: Eric Levy
Monday, Apr 08 2024

City of Orlando hosts 23rd Annual Bike to Work Day
Hundreds of people are expected to participate in the morning ride.

Source: Jaclyn Harold
Friday, Apr 05 2024

Central Florida residents say views on abortion stem from life experience, personal connections
Data shows at least one in eight voters say abortion is the most important issue when it comes to how they’ll vote.

Source: Jeff Allen
Thursday, Apr 04 2024