Health Bulletin

Health news you can use · PatientCareLinks
Wednesday, 4 November 2026
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Every item is selected to help you advise yourself, take action, or protect your health. We link to the original source — we don't republish.

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51 items
Advisory Source of News WHO

#MedSafetyWeek 2026: Don't ignore side effects. Report them. 2–8 November 2026

Global campaign encourages reporting of medication side effects
WHO is launching the global #MedSafetyWeek campaign from November 2-8, 2026, to raise awareness about the importance of recognizing and reporting medication side effects among patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.
Why this matters You should report any unusual side effects from your medications to your healthcare provider or local health authorities, as your feedback helps improve drug safety for everyone.
News Source of News WHO Prequalification

Dolutegravir (sodium) prequalified by WHO for HIV treatment

WHO prequalifies Dolutegravir for HIV treatment access
WHO has prequalified Dolutegravir (sodium) manufactured by Micro Labs Limited as an active pharmaceutical ingredient, expanding access to this important HIV treatment option that meets WHO quality standards.
Why this matters If you are living with HIV, this prequalification means more affordable, WHO-approved treatment options may become available through your healthcare provider or HIV treatment programs.
Research Source of News World Health Organization

Climate change is a growing health emergency, Lancet Countdown warns

Heat-related deaths rising faster than climate action, warns Lancet
The 2026 Lancet Countdown report warns that climate-related health impacts are accelerating, with heat-related deaths increasing 36% since the Paris Agreement. In 2023 alone, heat caused 710,000 deaths globally, with over 70% attributable to human-caused climate change.
Why this matters You should take heat-related health risks seriously—extreme heat is now a major health threat, and you should prepare for heatwaves by staying hydrated and seeking cool shelter.
Advisory Source of News WHO Regional Office for Africa

Ebola response: Disinformation kills, care saves lives

Combating false information during Ebola outbreak response
WHO Africa documented how misinformation undermines Ebola response efforts in the DRC. Between May and September 2026, over 34,650 items of online content were analyzed to identify and counter rumors and false information.
Why this matters You should verify health information from official sources like WHO and your health ministry rather than social media, as false information about Ebola can delay life-saving treatment.
Advisory Source of News World Health Organization

WHO Western Pacific Member States agree to urgently accelerate progress on key health priorities

Western Pacific health leaders accelerate action on immunization and chronic disease
WHO Western Pacific regional leaders endorsed action plans to address lagging progress on hypertension control, tobacco control, immunization, and artificial intelligence in healthcare. Member states committed to strengthening immunization systems.
Why this matters You should ensure your family is up-to-date with vaccinations, as the region is off-track on immunization targets and measles is making a comeback.
Advisory Source of News World Health Organization

WHO Pharmaceuticals Newsletter: 2026, No. 2

WHO drug safety updates and regulatory actions for healthcare providers
WHO published its pharmaceutical safety newsletter covering 32 regulatory and safety updates from March to June 2026, including information on antiepileptic drugs, opioids, valproate, and the chikungunya vaccine.
Why this matters You should review medication safety alerts if you take antiepileptic drugs, opioids, or valproate, as regulatory updates may affect your treatment.
Research Source of News WHO/Europe

Alcohol can cause breast cancer, but very few patients get asked about their drinking

WHO launches tool to discuss alcohol and breast cancer risk with patients
WHO/Europe launched an AI-powered digital hub during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to help health professionals discuss alcohol consumption and cancer risk. Only 15% of EU residents know alcohol is a breast cancer risk factor.
Why this matters You should reduce alcohol consumption to lower your breast cancer risk, and discuss your drinking habits with your healthcare provider during check-ups.
Outbreak Source of News WHO Disease Outbreak News

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus cases reported in Saudi Arabia

MERS-CoV cases detected in Saudi Arabia linked to camel exposure
Between January and October 5, 2026, Saudi Arabia reported eight laboratory-confirmed MERS-CoV cases, including one death, across six locations. Cases appear to represent sporadic infections related to zoonotic spillover from dromedary camels rather than a single outbreak cluster.
Why this matters If you travel to Saudi Arabia or work with camels, avoid close contact with dromedary camels and their products; practice hand hygiene and seek immediate care if you develop fever, cough, or breathing difficulties.
Advisory Source of News World Health Organization

Countries move to accelerate action against lead poisoning

WHO calls for urgent global action on preventable lead exposure threat
WHO is calling on countries to accelerate action to prevent lead exposure, marking International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2026. Lead exposure is estimated to contribute to more than 3.5 million deaths globally each year and affects hundreds of millions of children.
Why this matters Your children may be exposed to lead through paint, soil, or water; have them tested and avoid old painted surfaces, especially in homes built before 2000.
Advisory Source of News World Health Organization Europe

Get ready for this year's influenza season: vaccination is key

WHO Europe urges flu vaccination for vulnerable populations ahead of season
WHO/Europe encourages high-risk populations including older people, pregnant women, children under 5, and those with chronic health conditions to get vaccinated against influenza. The campaign emphasizes simple protective habits including staying home when unwell and practicing hand hygiene.
Why this matters If you're over 65, pregnant, have chronic illness, or care for young children, get your flu vaccine now to prevent serious complications and hospitalization.
Outbreak Urgent Source of News Reuters

Nigeria Reports First Ebola Case in Over a Decade

Fourth African nation affected by fastest-spreading outbreak on record; 4,646 deaths in Congo since May
Nigeria confirmed its first Ebola case in more than 10 years on October 21, making it the fourth African country and most populous nation affected by the current outbreak originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The outbreak, which has killed 4,646 people since May, is described as the fastest-spreading on record, with health officials warning that misinformation and funding gaps could accelerate regional spread.
Why this matters Ebola can spread across borders, we are very close to Nigeria so always wash hands especially if you are a health worker
Outbreak Urgent Source of News Ghana News Agency

Upper East Region strengthens preparedness for yellow fever and ebola outbreaks

Regional health authorities intensify disease surveillance as meningitis season approaches
Ghana's Upper East Regional Public Health Emergency Management Committee has intensified outbreak preparedness following yellow fever cases in the Upper West Region and Ebola reports in Nigeria. The region is also strengthening meningitis preparedness as November marks the beginning of meningitis season in Ghana's meningitis belt.
Why this matters If you live in northern Ghana, ensure you and your family are vaccinated against yellow fever and meningitis before the dry season begins.

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About these bulletins: PatientCareLinks lists health news, events, and advisories from third-party sources such as the Ghana Medical Association, WHO, Ghana Health Service, and the FDA. We do not endorse, verify, or take responsibility for the content of external sites. Every entry links directly to its original source. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice.

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