From Public Health Alarms to Deep-Sea Discoveries: This Week in Science and Health.

This week’s science and health updates span from surging childhood illnesses in the U.S. to discoveries deep beneath the ocean and far into space.

Measles and Whooping Cough Cases Climb:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a worrying spike in measles cases across the United States, with 712 confirmed as of April 11, 2025. For comparison, the total number of measles cases in 2024 was just 285. Two deaths have already been attributed to the illness this year, and a third is under investigation.

Last Tuesday, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices convened—after a delay from its originally scheduled February meeting. During the session, a leading scientist on the CDC’s measles task force indicated that actual case numbers may be higher than reported due to underdiagnosis.

Alongside measles, whooping cough (pertussis) has also seen a dramatic resurgence. According to ProPublica, the number of whooping cough cases has increased by over 1,500 percent since 2021. Deaths linked to the disease are also rising.

Whooping cough, caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis, is highly contagious. It can be transmitted even by individuals with mild symptoms. While some infants may show signs similar to a cold, others can experience severe complications such as pneumonia and breathing difficulties.

Vaccination remains the most effective method for preventing pertussis. The CDC recommends a series of DTaP shots at key developmental stages in children, followed by a Tdap booster in early adolescence. Pregnant individuals are encouraged to receive the Tdap vaccine between weeks 27 and 36 to help protect newborns. Adults who haven’t received a pertussis vaccine can opt for a Tdap shot, particularly when due for a tetanus booster.

ProPublica also highlighted a broader decline in vaccination rates among kindergartners for several diseases, including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and hepatitis B.

Autism Rates on the Rise:

In other public health news, the CDC published new data indicating an increase in autism spectrum disorder diagnoses among children. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., released a statement suggesting that not only are diagnoses increasing, but that case severity is worsening—a claim that contradicts the study’s findings.

Researchers behind the CDC report noted that the upward trend is likely due to better and earlier detection, especially in previously underserved populations. Dr. Kristin Sohl, chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Autism Subcommittee, described the findings as “encouraging.”

Ancient Magnetic Chaos and Early Human Adaptation:

On a different scientific front, a study published in Science Advances last Wednesday examined the Laschamp event, a geomagnetic anomaly that occurred approximately 41,000 years ago. During this period, Earth’s magnetic field weakened to about 10 percent of its usual strength, increasing exposure to cosmic radiation.

Researchers found that Homo sapiens responded by using ochre—shown to offer sun protection—more frequently and by seeking shelter in caves during high-radiation periods.

Space Surprises: Strange Orbits and Mars' Carbon Past:

Another study in Science Advances revealed a planet orbiting at a right angle to the orbital plane of a pair of brown dwarfs located 120 light-years from Earth. This perpendicular orbit is the first of its kind observed in a binary system and adds to the rarity of this eclipsing brown dwarf pair, first spotlighted in 2020.

Meanwhile, NASA’s Curiosity rover uncovered siderite, a carbonate-rich mineral, in Mars’ Gale Crater. This finding suggests that Mars once had a functioning carbon cycle, hinting at a denser atmosphere and the presence of liquid water in its ancient past.

Rare Deep-Sea Encounter:

Closing out the week with a remarkable sighting, scientists have captured the first footage of a colossal squid in its natural environment. Using a remote-operated submersible 600 meters (1,968 feet) below the ocean’s surface, researchers spotted a juvenile squid measuring around 30 centimeters (1 foot). As it matures, this elusive creature could grow up to 7 meters (23 feet) long and weigh as much as 500 kilograms (1,100 pounds).

From deep-sea marvels to vital public health concerns, the week’s developments reflect both the fragility and wonder of life on—and beyond—our planet.

Source:https://www.scientificamerican.com/podcast/episode/measles-whooping-cough-the-laschamp-event-and-a-colossal-squid/

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.