The Dose: Dr. TikTok
TikTok Health Trends, Ohio Train Derailment, & Nipah Virus
Welcome to The Dose! We’re delivering bi-weekly health and science updates right to your inbox, and we’re including some humor, art, and fun along the way. If you haven’t already subscribed, we’d love to have you!
Have you caught our two part podcast on TikTok health trends? No? Well then, you’re missing out! We covered everything from parasite cleanses to vabbing. You can listen to part 1 here and part 2 here.
The recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, US, has been understandably concerning for those living in the area. The train was carrying combustible materials and in order to prevent a possible explosion, the chemicals had to be released & burned. We’re discussing what we know so far, and what the implications are for the people and environment. Read more here.
If you have children, you’ve likely made the joke about understanding why some animals eat their young. But have you ever considered using your children like cement?! Neither have we, but this fascinating clip from BBC Earth shows how weaver ants do just that.
In a case study on epidemics that didn’t happen, we learn more about Nipah virus. Nipah virus is an emerging zoonotic disease that causes fever, headache, vomiting, and brain inflammation. It has a case fatality rate of up to 75%. In 2021, a 12 year old boy was infected with Nipah virus in Kerala, India. Sadly, the boy lost his life, but Indian health authorities responded quickly and aggressively to prevent an outbreak. You can read more about their response here.
Colorized transmission electron micrograph of mature extracellular Nipah Virus particles (blue) near the periphery of an infected VERO cell (purple). Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility in Fort Detrick, Maryland. Credit NIAID
Team Spotlight: Publications
Join us in celebrating members of our team who’ve had their works peer reviewed and published.
Katie, Public Health Effects of Medical Marijuana Legalization in Colorado
Sound Off: We Want To Hear From You!
Since our last two pod episodes have been devoted to TikTok health trends, we want to know:
That’s it for this issue! If you’re not currently a subscriber, we’d love to have you! If you are, thanks for being here! Feel free to share this with your friends, family, and coworkers!