SUMMARY: Jason Farned and his team at the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District have been preparing for dengue’s arrival, with the virus now detected in California. The spread of Aedes mosquitoes, capable of transmitting dengue, has been fueled by climate change and international trade. In 2023, California saw 13 locally acquired cases, prompting efforts like surveillance, pesticide applications, and public education. Authorities are also exploring techniques like sterile mosquito releases to reduce populations. Public cooperation is key, as Aedes mosquitoes are now established in 24 counties, and local outbreaks pose a growing threat to public health.

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SUMMARY: A new federal audit from the Health and Human Services Inspector General highlights concerns over $7.5 billion in Medicare Advantage overpayments linked to home visits that yielded no medical treatment in 2023. Despite these findings, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) declined to limit payments for such visits, arguing they enhance in-home care access. The audit suggests UnitedHealthcare accounted for a significant portion of contested payments, highlighting inefficacies in treating diagnosed conditions. Critics argue CMS needs stronger oversight to prevent potential waste of taxpayer dollars and enforce accurate diagnosis reporting.

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SUMMARY: South Dakota is grappling with a severe syphilis outbreak, particularly affecting Native American communities, with rates increasing by 1,865% from 2020 to 2022. Public health officials, led by Natalie Holt, are mounting an urgent testing campaign, but are hindered by limited resources since no federal public health emergency has been declared. This year, 75% of the 577 reported cases are among Native Americans, who represent only 9% of the population. Tribal leaders are advocating for more federal support, as they believe enhanced resources are essential to combat the outbreak and prevent further health crises.

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