MEDICAL NEWS

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: 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: 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

Orange County leaders launch campaign to eliminate Medicaid gap, expand coverage
Community organizations say they started an initiative to get Medicaid expansion on the ballot.

Source: Devin Martin
Thursday, Apr 04 2024

Children among hundreds of thousands of Floridians who’ve lost Medicaid coverage
Erin Booth says her son's cancer, and the extensive treatment for it, left his spine and brain with damage that requires expensive therapy.

Source: Jeff Allen
Wednesday, Apr 03 2024

The largest fresh egg producer in the U.S. has found bird flu in chickens at a Texas plant
Approximately 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets were destroyed after the infection, avian influenza, was found at the facility.

Source: Associated Press
Wednesday, Apr 03 2024

Medical marijuana patient has mixed feelings about recreational ballot initiative
The patient is upset that there is no “home grow” provision in the measure.

Source: Josh Rojas
Tuesday, Apr 02 2024

New Florida dashboard calculates health care cost of illegal immigrants
A doctor out of Lutz says the dashboard has left him concerned for the future of health care.

Source: Lizbeth Gutierrez
Monday, Apr 01 2024

Colon cancer on the rise in younger adults
Never expecting a colon cancer diagnosis, Alex Mojica, 35, said he ignored symptoms for a year.

Source: Erin Murray
Sunday, Mar 31 2024

Gephyrophobia, also known as bridge phobia, affects many drivers
Spectrum News talked to a Clearwater psychologist who said it's usually linked to other phobias, such as a fear of heights or flying.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Tuesday, Mar 26 2024

Supreme Court considers whether to roll back easier access to abortion pill
The justices will hear oral arguments in the mifepristone case Tuesday.

Source: Ryan Chatelain
Tuesday, Mar 26 2024

Study aims to find out if Lecanemab can prevent Alzheimer’s disease
The "AHEAD Study" looks to see if the medication can stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease before a patient is even diagnosed.

Source: Cait McVey
Monday, Mar 25 2024

American Astronomical Society warns of counterfeit eclipse glasses
Viewing a partial eclipse directly without the proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage, even blindness, doctors says.

Source: Ryan Chatelain
Friday, Mar 22 2024

A new era begins for Cape Canaveral Hospital as construction gets underway
Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026 and open in early 2027.

Source: Greg Pallone
Thursday, Mar 21 2024

Clermont hospital offering more resources for women
Health officials hope this will shorten the gap of accessing medical resources.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, Mar 20 2024

Volusia County resident aims to raise awareness about encephalitis
According to Encephalitis International, every minute one person is diagnosed with encephalitis around the world.

Source: Massiel Leyva
Monday, Mar 18 2024

IVF ruling in Alabama puts some Florida patients on edge
Natalie Schwartz said after Alabama's State Supreme Court IVF ruling, she's worried something similar could happen in Florida.

Source: Matt Lackritz
Sunday, Mar 17 2024

Tampa mother says newly approved food allergy drug will provide peace of mind
In February, the FDA approved asthma medication Xolair as the first ever drug to reduce food allergy reactions.

Source: Cait McVey
Thursday, Mar 14 2024

Florida woman who was the driving force behind lockdown lift reflects on the pandemic
Mary Daniel became the driving force behind the movement to reopen long-term care facilities.

Source: Cait McVey
Tuesday, Mar 12 2024

Health care providers in Orlando tackle rising cases of syphilis
Bliss Health in Orlando has invested in better testing in hopes to stop the spread.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, Mar 06 2024

Lake Nona program introduces yoga to kids
Experts say yoga can be used as a tool for kids and young adults to deal with stress.

Source: Katie Streit
Wednesday, Mar 06 2024

Measles vaccination initiative set to kick off in Apopka this week
In an effort to stop the spread of the measles, city leaders in Apopka are hosting several vaccinations events this month.

Source: Jaclyn Harold
Tuesday, Mar 05 2024

Pair of swans at Lake Eola died of bird flu, Orlando officials say
Orlando officials said due to the discovery, it’s important for visitors to take precautions while at Lake Eola.

Source: Maria Serrano
Wednesday, Feb 28 2024

Adult measles case confirmed in Polk County amid Ladapo criticism
According to Florida Health, the person infected is between 20-24 years old. It's the first adult case in the state this year.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Monday, Feb 26 2024

Abortion amendment to be argued in front of Florida Supreme Court
A proposed amendment would allow abortions to remain legal until the fetus is viable. Court is tasked with ensuring ballot language isn’t misleading.

Source: Jason Lanning
Wednesday, Feb 07 2024

Osceola extends deadline for input on opioid settlement funds
$12 million will be allocated over the next 18 years.

Source: Randy Rauch
Tuesday, Feb 06 2024

A heart condition misdiagnosis nearly cost a Brevard County woman her life
Gail Romanini was misdiagnosed with chronic acid reflux and heartburn.

Source: Greg Pallone
Tuesday, Feb 06 2024

Halifax Health announces new medical office, ER department in Port Orange
The new Halifax Health ER department is expected to open at the end of 2024.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Tuesday, Feb 06 2024

Orange County Zoning Board denies application for medical marijuana dispensary near Edgewater High
Under Orange County Code, dispensaries can’t be within 500 feet of a school.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Friday, Feb 02 2024

National Wear Red Day raises awareness about women's heart health
Wear red to spread awareness about women's health

Source: Jason Lanning
Friday, Feb 02 2024

Medical marijuana dispensary proposed near Edgewater High School
Under Orange County Code, dispensaries can't be within 500 feet of a school, and some residents aren't happy to hear about the idea.

Source: Celeste Springer
Wednesday, Jan 31 2024

Chance meeting leads thyroid cancer patient to her endocrinologist
Alex Freel recognized the signs of thyroid cancer early, and a chance meeting led her to a specialist who knew exactly what to do.

Source: Celeste Springer
Wednesday, Jan 31 2024

ADHD medication recalled after pharmacist finds container filled with the wrong pills
A pharmacist in Nebraska reported finding an antihistamine in a bottle that was supposed to contain Zenzedi.

Source: Spectrum News Staff
Tuesday, Jan 30 2024

Robitussin maker recalls several lots of cough syrup due to contamination
Haleon said use of the products could result in severe fungal infections.

Source: Associated Press
Thursday, Jan 25 2024

Tampa Bay woman fighting ALS: 'I’d be dead without my dad'
A retired doctor is trying to help his daughter overcome ALS, researching ways to stop progress of the disease.

Source: Jeff Butera
Thursday, Jan 25 2024

Record 21.3 million signed up for Affordable Care Act plans, Biden announces
The number represents a more than 30% increase from the previous year, when 16.3 million Americans signed up.

Source: Ryan Chatelain
Wednesday, Jan 24 2024

Blood donations urgently needed during National Blood Donor Month
Each donation can help save up to three lives in 250 hospitals across the southeast.

Source: Nicole Griffin
Monday, Jan 22 2024

Annual Down syndrome clinic offers vital medical services and support in Florida
The clinic plays a vital role, particularly for families navigating the transition of their loved ones from high school to the adult world.

Source: Destiny Wiggins
Saturday, Jan 20 2024

Orlando VA host annual tea party for women veterans
The event focuses on mind, body, spirit and female empowerment.

Source: Destiny Wiggins
Saturday, Jan 20 2024

Ormond Beach nonprofit helps foster kids and foster families in need
The organization, 1 Ohana 1 Community, provides care packages and other resources for kids and families in the foster system.

Source: Massiel Leyva
Friday, Jan 19 2024