Top health news from around the web this week.
International health news
- Universal flu vaccine “edges closer” – A different flu vaccine is produced yearly as the virus constantly changes, now scientists are looking at an universal vaccine.
- Statins link to type 2 diabetes – Statins, the widely used cholesterol lowering drugs, could raise your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Don’t scratch that itch! – Scientists have discovered a substance in the central nervous system which triggers itchiness, raising hopes for new treatments.
Health advice
- Fast food, the “healthy” options – Compare two dishes from your favourite fast food restaurants according to calories, fat and sugar content.
Country alerts
- Kenya: First polio outbreak in 2 years – Health officials say there is a “high risk” to neighboring countries from the recent Kenyan polio outbreak.
- UK: Cap on number of GP visits – The UK government is considering plans to limit the number of times people can see their family doctor per year.
- Australia: Expat doctors needed – The number of job ads calling for GPs, dentists and other healthcare professionals has soared in Australia.