Mental health workers shortage has created a growing healthcare crisis

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates a deficit of 10,000 mental health professionals by 2025 across the country

Deadly fungal infection C. auris spreading at 'alarming rate,' CDC says

The CDC called C. auris an urgent threat because it’s often resistant to antifungal drugs and spreads easily in healthcare facilities.

DEA issues dire US warning of fentanyl mixed with flesh-eating 'tranq' drug

Xylazine, also known as “tranq," is a powerful animal sedative that’s known to cause open skin wounds so severe – it can lead to amputation.

Biden signs bill to declassify information on COVID-19 origins

President Joe Biden has signed a bipartisan bill that directs the federal government to declassify as much intelligence as possible about the origins of COVID-19 more than three years after the start of the pandemic.

Bruce Willis' diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia explained by local neurologist

Last year, the family of Bruce Willis announced he’d been diagnosed with aphasia, which is the loss of the ability to understand or express language. Then, this past February, they revealed the 68-year-old actor has frontotemporal dementia or FTD.

'Ted Lasso' cast visit White House, promote mental health care

Comedian Jason Sudeikis, who plays the title character, and other cast members were meeting with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden to talk about how mental health contributes to overall well-being.

World's happiest countries for 2023 — Here's where the US ranks

The 2023 World Happiness Report found that global acts of benevolence were found to be about 25% more common in 2022 compared to before the pandemic.

How to shop for new insurance if you lose Medicaid coverage

States will start cutting people from the government-funded plans when they no longer qualify based on income, a process that has been paused since shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

11-year-old girl suffers brain aneurysm, undergoes surgery; parents call for brain screenings in children

Last May, 11-year-old Evie Williams complained of a headache and things went downhill quickly. Now she's recovering from brain surgery and her parents are advocating for brain screenings in children.

US warns about fake, deadly pills being sold in Mexico

The travel alert posted Friday says Americans should “exercise caution when purchasing medication in Mexico.”

New study cites Wuhan raccoon dogs as possible origin of COVID-19

The raccoon dog earns its name from its facial markings similar to raccoons. The animals are known to be sold at the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market, where many virologists suspect that the Covid-19 pandemic may have started.

Man accused of attacking flight attendant raises questions about security, mental health

A Massachusetts man accused of attacking a flight attendant and attempting to open the plane's emergency door on a cross-country flight has directed attention to passengers with mental health illnesses.

COVID-19 pill Paxlovid moves closer to full FDA approval

The medication has been used by millions of Americans since the FDA granted it emergency use authorization in late 2021.

RRISD to hold in-person fentanyl awareness event April 3

The meeting will focus on fentanyl awareness, prevention and resource information. Narcan and medical disposable bags will also be available on a first come, first served basis for adults.