A Unison survey of nearly 600 ambulance workers in England reveals that severe A&E delays force crews to provide prolonged care in ambulances, leading to patient deterioration and fatalities. 77% of respondents managed patients in ambulances due to extended waits, with 68% caring for multiple patients in hospital corridors. Alarmingly, 5% reported patient deaths during these delays. Ambulances have waited over 12 hours to offload patients, far exceeding the NHS target of 15-30 minutes. In the year leading to November 2024, ambulances spent over 1.5 million hours queuing outside A&Es, affecting more than 414,000 patients, with over 44,000 suffering severe harm. Unison warns this "car park care" is unsustainable, as frontline staff express frustration over their inability to respond to critical incidents due to persistent handover delays. (PC: The Guardian)

Scientists warn that gonorrhoea cases resistant to antibiotics are rising in England, increasing fears of an “untreatable” STI. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 17 ceftriaxone-resistant cases between January 2024 and March 2025, up from 16 in 2022-2023. Consultant epidemiologist Dr Katy Sinka stressed that gonorrhoea’s growing resistance could lead to severe health risks, including infertility. The NHS urges regular testing, as many cases show no symptoms. UKHSA lists Neisseria gonorrhoeae among top public health threats. Experts emphasize condoms and early detection to curb spread. Free and confidential STI testing remains crucial. (PC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Europe recorded 127,350 measles cases in 2024, the highest since 1997, per the World Health Organization (WHO). Cases doubled from 2023, with Romania reporting 30,692 infections. WHO blames misinformation and declining vaccination rates, especially in Bosnia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Romania, where less than 80% of children were vaccinated. WHO’s Dr. Hans Kluge warned, “Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security.” Measles, more contagious than COVID-19, remains vaccine-preventable, yet misinformation persists. WHO urges urgent action, as measles-related deaths continue globally. The US is also seeing rising anti-vaccine sentiment, complicating efforts to combat misinformation.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, 73, was admitted to AIIMS Delhi early Sunday after experiencing uneasiness and chest pain. He arrived at the hospital around 2 am and was admitted to the Critical Care Unit (CCU) under the supervision of Dr. Rajiv Narang, Head of the Cardiology Department. Sources indicate that Dhankhar is in stable condition and remains under observation, with a team of doctors closely monitoring his health. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda visited AIIMS to inquire about the Vice President's condition. Dhankhar, known for his active political career and tenure as the Governor of West Bengal, has been serving as the Vice President of India since 2022.

The number of norovirus patients in English hospitals has surged to a record 1,160 per day, a 22% rise from last week. NHS England data shows a significant increase from last year's 509 daily cases. Experts suggest a return to pre-pandemic hygiene habits may be fueling the spread. Hospitals are near capacity, with over 95% of adult beds occupied. "Handwashing and staying home when symptomatic are crucial," said NHS England’s Prof Sir Stephen Powis. Behavioral scientist Dr. Simon Williams noted decreased hygiene practices and presenteeism as key factors. Health officials urge preventive measures to curb the outbreak.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently declined to hear an appeal from the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) challenging an Arkansas law. This law mandates pharmaceutical companies to provide discounts on drugs dispensed by third-party pharmacies that contract with hospitals and clinics serving low-income populations. The decision supports state measures ensuring drug access through the federal 340B discount program, which requires drugmakers to offer discounts as a condition for receiving government health insurance funds. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin praised the ruling, stating it prevents manufacturers from exploiting gaps in federal law, thereby ensuring equal drug access for rural patients. Similar laws in states like Maryland, West Virginia, and Louisiana aim to protect the use of contract pharmacies, despite industry concerns about transparency and potential abuse.

Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Hospital since February 14, 2025, due to double pneumonia. Despite an isolated respiratory crisis on February 22, his condition has stabilized. The Vatican reports he remains vigilant, continues to eat, and engages in routine activities within his hospital room. In a written message, the Pope expressed gratitude for the global prayers and support, stating he feels "supported by all God's people." He also met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, and his deputy during his hospitalization. This marks the third consecutive week Pope Francis has been unable to lead the traditional Sunday Angelus prayer. The Vatican continues to monitor his health closely, with updates anticipated as he progresses in his recovery. 

Pope Francis has sparked speculation about a possible Vatican conclave, suggesting that discussions on future leadership may be underway. Amid ongoing health concerns, the 87-year-old pontiff acknowledged the natural progression of leadership transitions within the Catholic Church. While he has not explicitly stated any plans to step down, his remarks have raised questions about potential succession. The Pope continues to lead despite health challenges, but Vatican watchers are closely monitoring his statements. A conclave would mean cardinals worldwide gathering to elect a new pope, a rare event last seen in 2013 when Francis succeeded Pope Benedict XVI.  

On February 28, 2025, Pope Francis, aged 88, experienced a severe coughing fit leading to the inhalation of vomit, which necessitated non-invasive mechanical ventilation to support his breathing. This incident occurred during his two-week hospitalization at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he is being treated for double pneumonia. Despite the setback, the Vatican reports that the Pope remains conscious and alert, though his overall prognosis remains cautious due to the complexity of his condition. Doctors are closely monitoring him for potential complications, including sepsis. The Pope continues to work from the hospital, with global prayers dedicated to his recovery.   

Texas health officials confirmed the state’s first measles-related death, a school-aged unvaccinated child, amid a growing outbreak. The outbreak has infected 146 people, with 20 hospitalized, mostly children and teens. Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock reported several severe cases requiring intensive care. Health experts warn measles is highly contagious and can cause fatal complications. Dr. Lara Johnson emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating, “Measles is a deadly virus.” Nearly all cases involve unvaccinated individuals. The outbreak, linked to low vaccination rates in some communities, has also spread to neighboring New Mexico, which has reported 9 cases.