Category: Infection

Sign up for our free Health Check email to receive exclusive analysis on the week in health Get our free Health Check email People with lung infections are being encouraged to keep eating vegetables such as Brussels sprouts and cabbage in a bid to ease their illness. Scientists said that cruciferous vegetables, which include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, horseradish and turnips, contain a molecule which helps to maintain a healthy “barrier” in the lung which may in turn ease lung infections. Researchers from the Francis Crick Institute examined a protein called the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which can be activated by natural molecules in this type of vegetable. The effect AHR has on immune cells is well understood but now scientists have found that it also plays a role in endothelial cells lining blood vessels in the lung. The lung has a barrier made up of two layers, one of endothelial cells and one of epithelial cells, which allow oxygen to enter. But the barrier has to be kept strong to ward off pollution, viruses and bacteria. It’s a good idea to eat lots of cruciferous vegetables anyway, but this shows it’s even more important to continue eating them when you’re ill Andreas Wack The research team from the Crick conducted a series of experiments on mice which found that AHR plays an important role in helping maintain a strong barrier. Mice with flu were found to have blood in air spaces between their lungs because it had leaked across a damaged barrier. But AHR appeared to stop the barrier from leaking as much. They found that when AHR was “overactivated” there was less blood in lung spaces. The scientists also found that mice with enhanced AHR activity did not lose as much weight when infected with flu, and were able to better fight off a bacterial infection on top of the original virus. When AHR was prevented from being expressed in lung endothelial cells of mice, there was greater damage to the barrier, according to the study published in the journal Nature. Meanwhile, infected mice did not eat as much food when ill so their intake of foods which activated AHR was reduced, which appeared to lead to more lung damage. Mice on a diet rich with cruciferous vegetables were found to have healthier lung barriers and suffered less lung damage when infected with flu. Andreas Wack, group leader of the Immunoregulation Laboratory at the Crick, said: “Until recently, we’ve mainly looked at barrier protection through the lens of immune cells. “Now we’ve shown that AHR is important for maintaining a strong barrier in the lungs through the endothelial cell layer, which is disrupted during infection. “People may be less likely to maintain a good diet when they’re ill, so aren’t taking in the molecules from vegetables which make this system work. It’s a good idea to eat lots of cruciferous vegetables anyway, but this shows it’s even more important to continue eating them when you’re ill.” Commenting on the study, Dr John Tregoning, reader in respiratory infections at Imperial College London, said: “This study is important because it shows how the cells that line the lungs protect against damage following viral infection and that protection from infectious disease is not the sole reserve of the immune system. “The study shows that a compound derived from broccoli (and other cruciferous vegetables) can improve protection against viral lung damage. “The study is well performed and the conclusions in the mouse model are well backed up. “How this study translates into people during lung infection needs further work.”

The Health Ministry warns of the risk of serious eye infections from swimming in the Sea of Galilee. In a statement, the ministry says at least three cases have been reported in recent days of inflammation of the cornea and corneal scarring, caused by microsporidia, a fungal parasite in the water. This fungus can enter the body via the soft tissue around the eye while a person swims. The ministry urges those who intend to enter the lake to wear goggles. Those who are experiencing symptoms are urged to seek medical help immediately.

ByZarafshan Shiraz, New Delhi Aug 16, 2023 07:31 PM IST Share Via Copy Link There are a large number of people who are detected with hepatitis A and E during the rainy season. Here are its causes along with treatment and prevention tips Gastrointestinal problems, including liver diseases, surge during the monsoon season owing to factors such as contaminated water and food hence, there are a large number of people who are detected with hepatitis A and E during the rainy season. People should take precautionary measures to keep liver problems at bay and lead a healthy life and avoid eating unclean raw food and vegetables, give up on street food as it can be made with contaminated water, get vaccinated for hepatitis and take medication prescribed by the doctor only. Causes of increased hepatitis risk in monsoon, tips for a healthy liver (Photo by Twitter/AbeDan14) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Harshad Joshi, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Apollo Spectra in Mumbai, shared, “Monsoon is synonymous with a host of gastrointestinal problems including hepatitis infection. From children to adults to senior citizens, anyone can suffer from liver problems. “Contamination during rainy seasons leads to stomach infections. The common stomach infections are dysentery and diarrhea causing stomach pain, loose motions, and nausea. Typhoid is a serious bacterial infection causing High fever, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Hepatitis A and Jaundice can also give one a tough time. Hepatitis A means inflammation (swelling) of the liver. Poor sanitation, and water and food contamination raise the chances of dysfunction. One will suffer from jaundice leading to yellow eyes, yellow urine, white stools and stomach pain.” Dr Vikas Pandey, Gastroenterologist at Zynova Shalby Hospital, highlighted, “Liver infections or hepatitis cases are on the rise during monsoon owing to A and E viruses. One gets hepatitis A or E because of contaminated food or water or from close contact with an infected person. Eating food available on the streets or opting for pre-cut fruits that may be washed with contaminated water, drinking juices, and having pani puris, gola, sherbet made from contaminated water or ice, unclean raw food, and vegetables can make one prone to hepatitis. In 2021, 110 people suffering from liver and gastrointestinal diseases were treated during monsoon. In 2022, the number of patients increased to 326 patients. This year, when the rainy season has just started, 220 patients suffering from liver problems and gastrointestinal diseases have been found. Water intake is greatly reduced during monsoons. It increases liver and stomach-related disorders. So it is very important to drink enough water irrespective of the season.” Dr Vikram Raut, Director of Liver Transplantation and HPB Surgery at Medicover Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, revealed, “Hepatitis A and E can take a toll on one’s overall well-being. It can steal one’s peace of mind as if left untreated, they can damage the liver. Hepatitis A and E presents as jaundice when the skin and the eyes turn yellow. One’s condition can worsen when he/she doesn’t seek timely treatment leading to acute liver failure and ultimately liver transplantation.” Talking about the treatment and preventive measures, Dr Harshad Joshi suggested, “The treatment will be based on symptoms and differ from one-person-to-another. Take the medication prescribed by the doctor only. Avoid eating raw food and vegetables or street food and boil the water before drinking. Juices and other drinks are a strict no-no as they may contain contaminated ice, do not eat pre-cut fruits available at roadside stalls, wash hands from time to time.” Topics Treatment Stomach Pain Hepatitis A Vaccination Hepatitis C Hepatitis B Monsoon Health Fitness Rain Rains Rainfall Liver

The bacteria is found in raw seafood, like oysters, and warm, brackish waters. Climate change may increase the risk of infections from the deadly bacteria farther north. Three people in the New York City area have died in recent weeks and a fourth person was hospitalized after contracting infections from a flesh-eating bacteria that can be caused by eating raw oysters or swimming in saltwater, health officials in New York and Connecticut said. Infections from the bacteria, called Vibrio vulnificus, are rare but extremely dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in five people who become infected die. Many survivors lose limbs to amputations, according to the C.D.C. “We are reminding providers to be on the lookout for cases of vibriosis, which is not often the first diagnosis that comes to mind,” Dr. James McDonald, the New York state health commissioner said in a statement on Wednesday. People with open wounds should avoid swimming in warm seawater, he said. And people with compromised immune systems should be careful with eating or handling raw seafood. One of the New York area deaths was in Suffolk County, on Long Island; two others were in Connecticut. In the fourth case, also in Connecticut, a person was sickened but later released from the hospital. Vibriosis is caused by several species of bacteria, including the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, which can be found in salt water, especially when the weather is warm, New York health officials said. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and chills. Exposure can also result in ear infections and cause sepsis and life-threatening wound infections. The flesh around an open wound can die, which is why Vibrio vulnificus is called a “flesh-eating” bacteria. “It gets very nasty,” said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. The infection can destroy the soft tissues, he said, before getting into the bloodstream and causing sepsis. Healthy people should not be too concerned, he said. But people with liver problems, he said, should be cautious with seafood: “Eat the shrimp, rather than the oyster.” In the Connecticut cases, two people had open cuts and were exposed to water in the Long Island Sound, according to Christopher Boyle, a spokesman for the state’s health department. A third Connecticut resident became sick after eating raw oysters, though not at a restaurant in the state, and not harvested from the Sound, said Rebecca E. Murphy, a spokeswoman for the state agriculture department. “Nobody has ever been infected with Vibrio from eating shellfish or oysters in the state of Connecticut,” Dr. Manisha Juthani, the state’s public health commissioner, said at a news conference earlier this week. New York officials are still investigating whether the death in Suffolk County was caused by bacteria that was encountered in local waters or elsewhere. The bacteria are more common in the summer months. As ocean temperatures rise, more people may be at higher risk of infection, according to a study published this spring in the journal Scientific Reports. Once, the bacteria were rare north of Georgia, but they have been found farther north in recent years. From 1988 to 2018, wound infections from the virus increased from 10 cases per year to 80 cases a year on the East Coast, the researchers found. “This is showing the interconnectedness of our health and ocean health,” said Elizabeth Archer, the lead author. There have been other national spikes related to coastal surges, as infection-bearing water is pushed further inland. Last fall, after Hurricane Ian struck Florida, the state’s health department recorded what it described as an “abnormal increase” in cases. After Hurricane Katrina, in 2005, at least five people died of illnesses caused by Vibrio bacteria. Connecticut has seen a few cases in recent years. One person died of a Vibrio vulnificus infection in the state in 2019. In 2020, five cases were reported; all recovered. The people who became infected had open wounds and were exposed to salt or brackish water. Partly in response to the 2020 outbreak, the state now tests oysters for Vibrio vulnificus, said Emily Marquis, an environmental analyst with the bureau of aquaculture and laboratory services. Inspectors have never detected it in the state’s commercial oysters, said David Carey, the director of the bureau. Connecticut, which has a thriving oyster industry, also implemented rules about the storage and freezing of oysters after a 2013 outbreak of a similar bacterial strain, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, sickened 23 people there. Connecticut’s protocols are designed to keep oysters cold, below or equal to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Oysters must be refrigerated or placed in an ice slurry, depending on where they are harvested. The agriculture department said that there have been no Vibrio outbreaks since the protocols were put in place in 2014. “Maintaining cool temperatures is inhibiting bacteria growth,” said Tessa L. Getchis, who trains farmers in seafood cultivation practices with the Connecticut Sea Grant and UConn Extension Program. “Which is what you want. That’s why we refrigerate anything.” News of the deaths have worried some Connecticut residents. But the organizers of the annual Milford Oyster Festival, set for Saturday, say they are confident about safety. “There’s no reason for us to be alarmed over this,” said Trisha Kozloski, who organizes all the oyster sales for the festival. Organizers plan to provide 30,000 oysters, all harvested off the town’s coast. All are put on ice or refrigerated immediately, and festival workers regularly check the temperature of the truck, and of individual oysters, she said. “But we’re shucking to order, so the oysters aren’t sitting around,” she said, adding: “Nothing has changed. There’s no greater risk this year than there ever has been before. And the risk is very, very low.”

Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Three people have died in the New York City area after getting infections from a flesh-eating bacteria that can be caused by eating oysters or swimming in the ocean, according to health officials. One person died in Suffolk County on Long Island and two other victims were from Connecticut. A fourth victim fell ill but was later sent home from the hospital. The Centers for Disease Control says that the Vibrio vulnificus bacteria is deadly and kills one in five people who contract it. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) “While rare, the vibrio bacteria has unfortunately made it to this region and can be extraordinarily dangerous,” Governor Hochul said in a statement on Wednesday. “As we investigate further, it is critical that all New Yorkers stay vigilant and take responsible precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, including protecting open wounds from seawater and for those with compromised immune systems, avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish which may carry the bacteria.” Vibrio vulnificus bacteria, which occurs naturally in saltwater coastal environments and can be found in higher concentrations from May to October when the weather is warmer, said the New York State Department of Health. “We are reminding providers to be on the lookout for cases of vibriosis, which is not often the first diagnosis that comes to mind,” Dr James McDonald, the New York state health commissioner said in the statement. “We are also suggesting to New Yorkers that if you have wounds, you should avoid swimming in warm seawater. And, if you have a compromised immune system, you should also avoid handling or eating raw seafood that could also carry the bacteria.” Health officials say that anyone with an open wound or recent tattoo or piercing should avoid warm seawater or cover the wound in a waterproof bandage. People with compromised immune systems are also told they should avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, such as oysters.

Vibriosis, which can cause skin breakdowns and ulcers, was confirmed in a recently deceased person on Long Island in Suffolk County, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office announced Wednesday, Aug. 16. The disease is caused by several species of vibrio bacteria, including one that is commonly found in saltwater coastal areas and appears in higher concentrations from May to October when temperatures are warmer. Those infected may experience a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fever, and chills. Exposure can also cause ear infections, sepsis, and life-threatening infections, according to health officials. The health department is still trying to determine if the Suffolk County resident contracted the bacteria in New York waters or elsewhere. “While rare, the vibrio bacteria has unfortunately made it to this region and can be extraordinarily dangerous,” Hochul said. “As we investigate further, it is critical that all New Yorkers stay vigilant and take responsible precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe, including protecting open wounds from seawater and for those with compromised immune systems, avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish which may carry the bacteria.” In the wake of the Suffolk County death, state health officials are reminding healthcare providers to consider vibriosis when treating patients with severe wound infections or sepsis. Fatal cases of the disease have also been confirmed in Connecticut. At least four people died and dozens more were sickened following a spike in vibriosis in the wake of Hurricane Ian in Lee County, Florida, in late 2022. More information on vibriosis can be found on the New York State Health Department’s website. Click here to follow Daily Voice Suffolk and receive free news updates.

A new study has found that COVID-19 infections and vaccinations temporarily lengthen menstrual cycles. The research, published last week in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, is one of the first such studies to use real-time tracked data versus relying on a person’s memory of their cycle changes. “Menstrual health is significantly understudied and underrepresented in research and medicine,” Dr. Alison Edelman, physician scientist at Oregon Health & Science University, said in a statement Thursday to The Post. Researchers from the University of Montpellier and Oregon Health & Science University used data from Clue, a reproductive health app, with the personally identifiable information removed. The analysis of 6,000 Clue users in 110 countries found an increase in menstrual cycle length following a COVID-19 infection or vaccination, but this change was small and temporary. The study found a small and temporary increase in menstrual cycle length following a COVID-19 infection or vaccination.Getty Images On average, unvaccinated users experiencing a COVID-19 infection reported a 1.45 day increase in their menstrual cycle, while vaccinated users reported a 1.14 day increase in their cycle after receiving the shot. In both cases, these changes appeared to last only one cycle. “This work is important and necessary to provide answers which can reassure individuals who are experiencing menstrual changes following a COVID-19 infection,” Edelman said. The researchers determined that the changes were likely caused by people’s immune systems reacting to the virus. They were sure to note that menstrual cycles can change for a variety of reasons. According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, a change of less than eight days within the average 28-day cycle is considered within the normal range. On average, unvaccinated users experiencing a COVID-19 infection reported a 1.45 day increase in their menstrual cycle, while vaccinated users reported a 1.14 day increase in their cycle after receiving the shot. Getty Images/iStockphoto While the effects of COVID-19 are still being studied, some research has found links between the virus and menstruation. A study published last year in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that women vaccinated against COVID-19 saw a slight delay — by less than one day, on average — in the onset of their menstrual periods, compared to unvaccinated women. The average delay in women’s cycles after the first vaccine dose was 0.64 day (about 15.36 hours), and 0.79 day (about 18.96 hours) following the second dose. The shot did not substantially affect the number of bleeding days, according to findings from more than 4,000 participants. Like in the Clue-based study, researchers also claimed the change may have been related to the immune system’s response to the virus. “Menstrual health is significantly understudied and underrepresented in research and medicine,” Dr. Alison Edelman, physician scientist at Oregon Health & Science University, told The Post.Getty Images/iStockphoto Research also published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that stress related to the pandemic caused changes in women’s periods, too. The results showed that more than half of the 354 participants had a change in cycle length, duration, flow and/or frequency of spotting in between cycles after March 2020. Some women with the highest stress levels due to COVID-19 experienced changes in all four of the categories.

Spain recorded an increase in E. coli and Listeria infections in 2022, according to recently released figures. In 2022, 633 Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) infections were reported, as well as eight imported cases. This includes 620 confirmed and 13 probable cases. The number rose from 426 cases in 2021. The highest incidences in 2022 were observed in children younger than 5 years of age, being higher in girls than in boys, according to data from the National Epidemiological Surveillance Network (RENAVE). A total of 134 hospitalizations were reported and six people developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS is a severe complication associated with E. coli infections that causes kidney failure. Four of these were younger than the age of 3, one was 10 years old, and the other was an 84-year-old adult. Three deaths were recorded: one child younger than 3 years old who had HUS, and two adults aged 65 and 93. For imported cases, two were younger than 10 years of age, and the rest were aged between 22 and 60. Information on serogroup causing infection was available in 80 cases of which 67 corresponded to O157. One was O107, another was O128 and 11 were recorded as non-O157. In 2021, two outbreaks occurred with four patients and one case of HUS. In 2022, five STEC outbreaks were reported, resulting in 13 cases and two hospitalizations. Two were foodborne: one of them, with four cases was associated with consumption of various foods in a bar. In the other outbreak, with two cases younger than 2 years old in a nursery, the suspected food was hamburgers, and E. coli O157 was identified in clinical samples from patients. Listeria dataIn 2022, 460 patients were reported, of which 450 were confirmed, nine were probable and one was imported. In 2021, 375 patients were noted with 38 deaths. The highest incidence rates in 2022 were found in boys less than 1 year of age, followed by men more than 75 years old and girls less than 1 year of age. Overall, 67 deaths were reported. The age group with the most fatalities were those over 84 with 20 deaths, followed by those aged 75 to 84 with 19 deaths and 65 to 74 with 16 deaths. In 2021, two outbreaks had four cases. This past year, nine listeriosis outbreaks were reported with 20 cases and eight hospitalizations. In three outbreaks, the mode of transmission was food consumption. In one of them, the suspected food was poultry meat, in another it was unspecified meat, and the food implicated in the third incident was unknown. The others were caused by mother to baby transmission. (To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here)

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Is your furry friend suffering from pesky yeast ear infections? Fret not, because we’ve got you covered! Discovering the best dog food to combat these irritating infections is crucial for your pet’s well-being. Proper nutrition plays a vital role in alleviating yeast ear infections in dogs, and we’re here to guide you through it. Choosing the right dog food brand specifically designed to tackle yeast-related issues can make all the difference. By supporting your pet’s ear health with a suitable diet, you can help them find relief and prevent future occurrences. So, let’s delve into the world of yeast food and diets that will have your pup wagging its tail with joy! Finding the perfect dog food is key. Stick around as we uncover top-notch recommendations and enlighten you on how proper nutrition aids in fighting those stubborn infections. Let’s get started on this journey towards healthier ears for your beloved canine companion! Best dog food for dogs with yeast ear infections in 2023 Pupper Fuel Dog Food Wholesome Sensitive Skin & Stomach Spot & Tangle Unkibble Halo Freeze Dried Raw Beef Meal Bites Zignature Zssential Multi-Protein Formula Grain-Free Nature’s Recipe Grain-Free Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Chicken & Veggies Recipe Dry Dog Food Instinct By Nature’s Variety Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Turkey Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food Understanding Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs Yeast ear infections can be quite a nuisance for our furry friends. Understanding what causes these infections and how to prevent them is essential for the well-being of yeasty dogs. Let’s delve into the common factors that contribute to yeast overgrowth in a dog’s ears and explore why a balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing and managing yeast ear infections. Yeast infections, also known as yeast dermatitis, occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast on a dog’s skin or in its ears. The most common culprit behind these infections is the fungus called Malassezia pachydermatis. This fungus naturally resides on a dog’s skin but can multiply rapidly under certain conditions, leading to infection. Several factors contribute to yeast overgrowth in a dog’s ears. One primary cause is moisture buildup, which creates an ideal environment for yeast growth. Dogs with floppy ears or those that frequently swim are more prone to developing ear infections due to increased moisture trapped within the ear canal. Another factor that contributes to yeast issues is allergies. Just like humans, dogs can have allergies too, and they often manifest as itchy skin or ears. Allergies lead to inflammation, which weakens the skin barrier and makes it easier for yeast to take hold and thrive. A poor diet lacking essential nutrients can also contribute to yeast overgrowth. A balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and limited carbohydrates helps support your dog’s immune system and maintain healthy skin barriers—essential defenses against yeast production. Addressing underlying health issues is vital in preventing recurring yeast ear infections. If your dog has an underlying condition such as hypothyroidism or immune system disorders, it may be more susceptible to these infections. Symptoms of Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs Recognizing the telltale signs of a yeast ear infection in your furry friend is crucial to their well-being. These infections can cause discomfort and pain for your canine companion, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms that may indicate yeast overgrowth in their ears. One common symptom of a yeast ear infection is an infected ear that emits a foul odor. If you notice an unpleasant smell coming from your dog’s ear, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to developing these infections since their ear canals provide a warm and moist environment that promotes the growth of yeast. Another symptom to watch out for is excessive itching or scratching around the ears. If you observe your dog constantly pawing at its ears or rubbing them against furniture or the floor, it may be a clear indication of discomfort caused by a yeast infection. Pay attention if they seem particularly bothered by one specific ear as this could signify an infection localized to that area. Redness and inflammation are also common symptoms associated with yeast ear infections. Take a closer look at your dog’s ears and check for any signs of irritation such as redness, swelling, or tenderness. You might even notice discharge or crusty debris accumulating inside the ear canal. In some cases, dogs suffering from these infections may experience balance issues or exhibit unusual behavior like head shaking or tilting. This could indicate that the infection has spread deeper into the inner ear, affecting their equilibrium. If left untreated, yeast ear infections can lead to more serious complications such as secondary bacterial infections or even permanent damage to the eardrum. That’s why it’s crucial to identify and address these symptoms promptly. Key Nutrients in Dog Food for Yeast Ear Infections It is essential to provide them with the right nutrients. Let’s explore the key nutrients that should be present in dog food to promote optimal ear health and alleviate yeast infections. Essential Nutrients for Healthy Ears To maintain healthy ears, dogs need a balanced diet that includes specific vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients play a vital role in supporting the immune system and preventing yeast overgrowth. Here are some of the essential nutrients to look for in dog food: Vitamin A: This vitamin helps maintain the integrity of skin cells lining the ears, reducing the risk of infection. Vitamin E: Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin E protects against oxidative damage and supports overall ear health. Zinc: An important mineral for immune function, zinc helps strengthen the skin barrier and aids in wound healing. Selenium: This mineral acts as an antioxidant and plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune response. Copper: Copper promotes collagen production, which is essential for maintaining

SINGAPORE – A large local study of polyclinic patients has found that not all the antibiotics used to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) were as appropriate, and there is a need for better diagnosis and management of the condition in primary care. Two out of four antibiotics that are usually prescribed for uncomplicated UTIs were found to be more superior and resulted in a lower risk of treatment failure. Patients were less likely to return to the clinic due to persistent symptoms or head to the emergency department because of complications. UTI is usually caused by bacteria, and the symptoms include pain when urinating, increased frequency of urination, and cloudy urine. The infection is very common – about half of all women will experience it at least once in their life. The study from 2019 to 2021 involved 3,194 female patients, aged 18 to 50, with uncomplicated UTIs from six National University Polyclinics. Uncomplicated UTIs happen in healthy people with normal urinary tracts. Complicated UTIs, which may require longer or stronger antibiotic courses, were excluded from the study. This is the first large-scale local study in primary care done on uncomplicated UTIs in Singapore. Titled “Antibiotic treatment failure of uncomplicated urinary tract infections in primary care”, it was published in the journal Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control on Aug 1. The study recommends using amoxicillin-clavulanate (commonly known as Augmentin) or nitrofurantoin for treating uncomplicated UTIs in Singapore. These are antibiotics with lower reported resistance rates, and have lower treatment failure rates compared to ciprofloxacin and co-trimoxazole, said the study’s first author, Dr Sky Koh, an associate consultant and family physician at Bukit Batok Polyclinic. He said patients who took Augmentin or nitrofurantoin were 33 per cent less likely to experience treatment failure, compared to those who took the other two antibiotics. “You might not be able to clear the bacteria in the urinary tract altogether using the other two antibiotics because the bacteria has become more resistant to them over the years,” he said. Dr Koh said the other significant finding was that doctors relied on urine tests to diagnose UTIs, even though international guidelines recommend diagnosing the condition based on symptoms only. In the study, only 26 per cent of the UTIs were diagnosed based on symptoms. The guidelines also do not recommend collecting urine cultures for lab tests to diagnose uncomplicated UTIs, but local doctors do so for about one-third of the cases. A urine test will tell if a person has a UTI, while a lab test on urine cultures will identify which bacteria is growing, and this will help doctors decide which antibiotics to prescribe. “Most of the time, UTIs can be diagnosed in an uncomplicated way in non-pregnant women, pre-menopausal women between the ages of 18 and 50. It’s actually quite common, and we can use symptoms to diagnose them,” said Dr Koh. “We usually don’t send urine cultures because the tests cost $40 and the bacteria is going to be what we have predicted, which is Escherichia coli,” he said.