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July 2024

Think Horses First

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Loneliness

Loneliness and lack of social connection pose a threat to mental and physical health. Loneliness among adults in 26 U.S. states was highest for bisexual (57%) and transgender persons (range: 56%–64%); these groups also reported the highest prevalence of stress, frequent mental distress, and history of depression (range: 34%–67%). Clinicians and the health care system can help address the psychosocial needs of these populations by raising awareness, promoting a welcoming health care environment, using gender-neutral and inclusive language, and reducing the stigma around loneliness.

Read more about loneliness

Firearm Storage

Among survey respondents in eight states, 18%–51% reported keeping a firearm in or around the home. Of respondents with a loaded firearm and a child or adolescent aged ≤17 years in the home, 25%–41% reported that a loaded firearm was kept unlocked. Clinicians can discuss secure firearm storage practices with parents and caregivers, including supporting them in asking about the presence of unsecured firearms in other homes where their children visit and play.

Read more about firearm storage

Don’t Forget Zebras

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Meningococcal Disease

As of May 29, 2024, 12 meningococcal disease cases associated with Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia had been identified. Nine patients were unvaccinated; vaccination status of three patients was unknown. Ciprofloxacin-resistant strains were identified in 3 of 11 cases. Clinicians can ensure that pilgrims aged ≥1 year have received a MenACWY vaccine within the last 3–5 years (depending on vaccine type received) before travel and preferentially consider using rifampin, ceftriaxone, or azithromycin instead of ciprofloxacin as prophylaxis for close contacts of these patients.

Read more about meningococcal disease

Opportunities to Improve Clinical Outcomes

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Opioid Use Disorder Treatment
The graphic has text that reads, “Only 1 in 4 adults who need opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment receive medications for OUD” with a picture of a person with their arms crossed and an image of two pharmacists in a pharmacy

Read more about opioid use disorder treatment

Did you know? Medscape & MMWR have FREE CME activities

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Continuing medical education credits are available from Medscape on select MMWRs.

Learn more about FREE CME

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