Medical

An analysis based on re-tested throat swabs from people in Wuhan, China, and Seattle, United States, suggests that thousands of people who had flu-like symptoms last winter could actually have had COVID-19.Share on PinterestA new analysis suggests that COVID-19 may have been present in thousands of people with flu-like symptoms in winter 2019.On December 31,…

Scientists have shown that currents measured in millionths of an amp kill bacteria by disrupting their outer membranes. The finding may inspire new antimicrobial technologies that use electricity to slow the spread of antibiotic resistant infections.Share on PinterestNew research suggesting that electricity can kill bacteria may have long-term implications for combating ‘superbugs.’Scientists have known since…

A study presents physiological evidence that treatments honestly presented as placebos can still provide benefits.Share on PinterestA new study suggests that placebos may have beneficial effects even if a person knows that they are receiving a placebo.When a person receives treatment, it is natural for them to expect, or at least hope, that it will…

New research has linked metabolic syndrome with an increased risk of worse outcomes in people with COVID-19.Share on PinterestResearch finds that people with conditions that make up metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes.A new study has found that people with metabolic syndrome, which refers to a cluster of conditions that increase…

Given the unprecedented challenges of recent months, it’s perhaps unsurprising that many of us are experiencing sleep deprivation. In a recent survey conducted in the United Kingdom, around 75% of respondents said that unease around the COVID-19 outbreak has caused sleep disruption, while 77% reported that lack of sleep has interfered with their day-to-day functioning.Lack…