Health

Pope Francis, at the venerable age of 88, has spent the last two weeks in the hospital battling double pneumonia. Recent updates from the Vatican provide insight into his current condition, describing it as "stable." Yet, they have chosen to refrain from making any definitive predictions regarding his recovery. In what many might call a rollercoaster of emotions, yesterday was marked by a concerning "breathing crisis." Thankfully, this incident was not repeated, and the Vatican reassured the public that while the Pope…

Pope Francis is currently hospitalized with a respiratory infection, yet the Vatican has confirmed that his clinical condition is stable and he is free from fever. The Holy See Press Office communicated this morning that the pontiff is adhering to the prescribed treatment plan and even received the Eucharist, later engaging in various work-related tasks. Despite being a seasoned leader of the Catholic Church, the 88-year-old has faced significant health challenges in recent years, and this current hospitalization marks yet…

Pope Francis is currently in stable condition, according to a recent statement from the Vatican. His treatment continues following his admission to the hospital just two days ago due to a respiratory tract infection—an ailment that has become increasingly common as the years advance. As he finds solace in rest and reading, the Pope's routine has been largely disrupted. This afternoon, he alternated between moments of relaxation and immersing himself in literature, a habit that provides him comfort during his recovery.…

In a remarkable turn of events, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., recently confirmed as the U.S. Health Secretary, made headlines by accusing the nation’s health institutions of “stealing the health of our children.” This statement isn’t simply a criticism; it’s a rallying cry suggesting that these institutions should face consequences akin to those experienced by USAID under President Trump’s administration, which has faced intense scrutiny. At his swearing-in ceremony, Kennedy defended his controversial stance on vaccines. He…

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (AX) — In the heart of Nordic Europe, far from her birthplace under the vast, sun-drenched skies of Somalia, Ayaan Hassan, found herself walking a path few dare to tread. A Somali-born Swedish midwife, Ayaan recently received the prestigious 2025 Medical Mission's Kindness Award, honoring her pivotal role in revolutionizing maternal healthcare in her homeland, North Western State of Somalia. What shaped this courageous journey? How did a Swedish-trained midwife find herself amidst the challenges of a…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an unforeseen twist of events, Somalia's Ministry of Finance has decided to suspend the controversial health card fees that had left travelers bewildered and frustrated. Those fees, imposed on January 28, 2025, by the Ministry of Health, were meant to serve as a financial buffer for vaccinations and other health-related travel requisites. Yet, their introduction was anything but smooth. Chaos erupted as passengers found themselves unexpectedly asked for payments, with no prior announcement, leading to…

Mogadishu (AX) — Reflecting on the turbulent year of 1998, Ahmed Moalim Hirsi embarked on a daunting mission: to battle the pervasive threat of polio in a nation beleaguered by conflict and chaos. Imagine navigating a landscape where health systems were mere shadows of what they ought to be. Yet, amid the cacophony and confusion, Ahmed had a singular focus: safeguard the future of Somali youth from a morbid affliction that had gripped communities in terror for decades. At 65, Ahmed now stands at the precipice of a new…

In a remarkable stride for public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially applauded Guinea for its success in eradicating human African trypanosomiasis, more commonly known as sleeping sickness. This milestone is more than just a line on the achievement chart; it marks the first time a neglected tropical disease has been wiped out in the country, shining brightly as a beacon of hope amidst ongoing global health challenges. Coincidentally, this announcement was made on World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day,…

Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy, has voiced strong objections to the nomination of her cousin, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services. Ahead of his confirmation hearing scheduled for tomorrow, she dispatched a pointed letter to US senators, in which she characterized him as "completely unqualified" for the role. “He is a predator,” she boldly asserted, underlining her concern that his controversial anti-vaccine rhetoric has resulted in tragic…

Credit: REUTERS/Thomas Mukoya The global fight against pandemics like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis faces a precarious moment. Why? On a fateful Tuesday, the Trump administration in the United States pivoted, deciding to freeze the supply of essential, lifesaving drugs intended for countries supported by US-AID. Ironic, isn't it? A world grappling with medical crises now finds itself cut off from a vital supply line. In an abrupt curtain call, a memo surfaced, targeting contractors and partners associated with US-AID. The…