Health
Masking helped protect children from the virus last fall, a C.D.C. study suggests.
![Masking helped protect children from the virus last fall, a C.D.C. study suggests. Masking helped protect children from the virus last fall, a C.D.C. study suggests.](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/08virus-briefing-cdc-schools-masks-facebookJumbo.jpg)
Increasingly more American college districts have dropped masks mandates in current weeks as coronavirus instances plunged throughout america. However they continue to be a topic of debate amongst some college students and their dad and mom, and a research launched on Tuesday by the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention recommended that these mandates had helped shield youngsters and lecturers from the coronavirus final fall.
The research, inspecting public college districts in Arkansas from August to October because the Delta variant unfold, discovered that districts with full masks necessities had 23 p.c decrease charges of the coronavirus amongst college students and workers members than districts with out the mandates.
It was not clear whether or not the identical would have been true as soon as the Delta variant was overtaken by Omicron, which is extra contagious and unfold quickly amongst youngsters and adults alike.
The C.D.C. has confronted criticism from scientists previously for overstating the advantages of college masking based mostly on what some researchers have described as a flawed research out of Arizona. Some research from overseas have additionally discovered that masks mandates weren’t related to decrease charges of the coronavirus in youngsters.
However some scientists mentioned that the most recent C.D.C. research had steered away from probably the most severe methodological issues and had strengthened the proof for masks defending some youngsters from the coronavirus.
“It passes the odor take a look at,” Louise-Anne McNutt, a former C.D.C. Epidemic Intelligence Service officer and an epidemiologist on the State College of New York at Albany, mentioned of the research. “The estimates of the affect of masks are per different research that present masks have a modest, however vital, discount of SARS-CoV-2 transmission.”
The research in contrast coronavirus case charges amongst 233 Arkansas districts. A few third of the districts had full masks mandates, a fifth required masks solely in sure settings or conditions, and half had no masks insurance policies.
It took into consideration workers and pupil vaccination charges and socioeconomic standing. It additionally adjusted for coronavirus charges within the surrounding neighborhood — an try, the research’s authors mentioned, to partially management for a way a lot testing was occurring in a given a part of the state. Dr. McNutt, although, mentioned that the research would have benefited from extra particulars on statewide testing ranges.
Districts with full masks mandates had decrease coronavirus charges relative to the case charges within the surrounding neighborhood than districts with out the mandates, the research discovered. And amongst roughly two dozen districts that put in place masks mandates in the midst of the research interval, case charges afterward dropped greater than would have been anticipated from adjustments in neighborhood case charges on the similar time, the research mentioned.
Partial masking insurance policies didn’t present as sturdy an impact as full masks mandates.
The research didn’t account for faculties’ prevention efforts past masking, like ventilating lecture rooms. Jonathan Ketcham, an economist specializing in well being care at Arizona State College, mentioned that might be an “vital flaw within the research itself.”
Jason Abaluck, an economics professor at Yale College’s College of Administration who helped lead a big trial on masking in Bangladesh, additionally cautioned that the colleges with masks mandates may have differed from these with out them in different methods, like adherence to distancing measures. He mentioned that the research may have extra carefully matched close by faculties with totally different masking insurance policies to check their results.
However Dr. Abaluck mentioned the C.D.C. research was an enchancment on earlier analysis.
“This research and the broader literature on masking means that in locations the place hospitalization and deaths are very excessive, the advantages of masks carrying in faculties could also be appreciable,” he mentioned.
Nonetheless, he famous that masks may cause discomfort and make it more durable for youngsters to speak. “Determining how extreme an outbreak needs to be to warrant masks mandates in faculties,” he mentioned, “requires making finest guesses in regards to the prices, which stay extremely unsure given current proof.”
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Health
Blue Zones and Mediterranean Diets: What the Longest Living Populations Are Doing Right | Woman's World
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Health
Hiker's death in Utah spotlights need for safety protocols on the trail
![Hiker's death in Utah spotlights need for safety protocols on the trail Hiker's death in Utah spotlights need for safety protocols on the trail](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/female-hiker.jpg)
A female hiker died on Sunday on a trail near near Quail Creek State Park in southern Utah, according to local reports.
The woman, 56, who was not identified in the report, had sent out a distress call regarding lack of water and high temperatures, but by the time police arrived, she was unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene.
The local temperature was 106 degrees Fahrenheit when the woman’s death was reported.
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This recent hiking death and others, many of them heat-related, have spotlighted the need for safety protocols.
While experts agree that hiking is considered a good form of exercise, they stress the importance of being prepared before heading out on the trail, especially during the hot summer months.
Outdoor enthusiasts shared tips to help prevent trail hazards amid a flurry of recent hiking-related deaths this summer. (iStock)
Outdoor enthusiasts shared the following important tips to help prevent hiking hazards.
1. Study the hiking area before your trip
Before heading out on a hike, familiarize yourself with maps, landmarks and any restricted areas or required permits, say trail experts.
“Research the terrain, trail difficulty, weather conditions and local wildlife,” Joey Coe, a trip leader for Backroads, a California-based travel touring company, told Fox News Digital.
![Female hiker](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/female-hiker.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
A female hiker (not pictured) died on Sunday on a trail near near Quail Creek State Park in southern Utah, according to local reports. (iStock)
Coe also suggested saving a photo of the trail map on your phone to reference while hiking.
Although cell phones and mapping apps can be helpful, it is important to have a backup paper map in the event of a lost signal, according to Guy deBrun, a lecturer at the Hart School of Hospitality, Sport & Recreation Management at James Madison University in Virginia.
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“Knowledge of how to use a paper map is imperative,” deBrun, who is also an instructor in wilderness first aid, told Fox News Digital in an email.
Hikers should also know the difficulty level of the planned route, according to the American Hiking Society, a nonprofit based in Silver Springs, Maryland.
![Snack on trail](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/eating-on-trail.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Pack lightweight, high-energy foods such as nuts, dried fruit, energy bars and sandwiches, and avoid bringing perishable items unless you have proper storage, experts said regarding outdoor hikes. (iStock)
“It’s also helpful to identify possible emergency exit points,” Maggie Peikon, manager of communications with the American Hiking Society, told Fox News Digital via email.
Online forums and trail reviews can also provide valuable information about the terrain, she added.
2. Set a ‘time plan’ for your hike
Whether you are setting off alone or with a group, let someone know your expected time frame for arriving at predetermined spots along the trail, experts recommend.
“Knowledge of how to use a paper map is imperative.”
One approach is to create a “time control plan,” which considers linear distance and elevation.
A general rule of thumb is to travel two miles per hour, adding one mile for every 1,000 feet of elevation gain.
“Most novices fail to plan for elevation gain,” deBrun told Fox News Digital.
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“One thousand feet of elevation gain adds one mile to your total mileage. So, if you are hiking five miles and gaining 2,000 feet, you [should] consider it seven miles. Divide by two miles an hour to estimate your time.”
It is also important to project the amount of daylight you will have during your excursion to avoid returning in the dark if you don’t have the necessary gear to hike at night.
3. Know your limits
It’s best to start small and build, starting with short, easy, well-marked trails that match your fitness level, experts agreed.
“Take breaks as needed, and don’t push too hard,” said Coe.
Peikon added, “If you’re feeling too tired, or realize you’re not going to make it to your destination within the time frame you prepared for, turn around and err on the side of caution.”
![Map and compass](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/map-with-compass.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Before heading out on a hike, trail experts recommend familiarizing yourself with maps, landmarks, and any restricted areas or required permits. (iStock)
It’s also important to stay on the trail, she said.
“Avoid taking shortcuts. Getting off the trail for any reason can easily result in becoming directionally disoriented and getting lost.”
4. Maintain a safe distance when hiking
Aim to keep a distance of at least a few feet between hikers to avoid accidents and allow space for wildlife, experts advised.
For people hiking in a group, it’s best to avoid taking up the whole trail width, according to the American Hiking Society.
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Hikers going downhill should yield to those going uphill.
Also, be wary of potential poisonous vegetation in that region so you can keep a safe distance and avoid accidental contact, experts cautioned.
5. Prepare for weather conditions
Hikers should consider local weather patterns when deciding what to wear on a hike, experts told Fox News Digital.
“In many mountainous areas, lightning storms regularly occur in the afternoon,” deBrun said. “Hikers should take this into account.”
Coe recommended dressing in layers to help adjust to changing temperatures.
“Moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials are best,” he said.
![Bear or bug spray](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/hiking-bear-bug-spray.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
In areas where bears are prevalent, experts suggest packing bear spray to use in the event of an unexpected encounter. (iStock)
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and rain gear, experts advised.
For family hiking trips, it’s important to be aware of children’s body temperature. “If you are carrying a child, he or she may be cold while you are burning up,” Peikon said.
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“Conversely, you may feel chilled while your child is warm from running around and playing.”
If multiple children are on the hike, dress them in bright, visible clothing so you can more easily spot them, Peikon said.
6. Wear comfortable, supportive footwear
Multiple hiking trip leaders suggested wearing sturdy, well-fitted hiking boots with good ankle support.
“Break them in before your trip to avoid blisters,” Coe cautioned.
![Kids hiking](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/hiking-with-children.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
If multiple children are on the hike, dress them in bright, visible clothing so you can more easily spot them, an expert said. (iStock)
Running shoes or trail runners can be appropriate, deBrun said, but hiking boots may be more appropriate in wet or rocky terrain.
7. Bring along essential equipment
Pack a compass or GPS, whistle, flashlight, a basic first aid kit and trekking poles (if needed), said experts.
Teach children to blow the whistle several times in the event they wander away from the group, they also advised.
Pack a compass or GPS, whistle, flashlight, a basic first aid kit and trekking poles (if needed).
“Be aware of your group’s medical needs and any potential allergies,” Coe said.
Hikers might also want to consider taking a wilderness first aid course, he added.
In areas where bears are prevalent, experts suggest packing bear spray to use in the event of an unexpected encounter.
It’s also a good idea to check with local animal experts about how to navigate an encounter with wildlife.
8. Stay fueled and hydrated
Pack lightweight, high-energy foods such as nuts, dried fruit, energy bars and sandwiches, and avoid bringing perishable items unless you have proper storage, experts said.
![Couple on a hike](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/couple-hiking.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Aim to keep a distance of at least a few feet between hikers to avoid accidents and allow space for wildlife, experts advised. (iStock)
It is also important to leave no trace of food behind.
“Carry out all trash and leftover food to avoid attracting wildlife and to prevent littering,” Coe advised.
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Packing enough water is essential.
“Bring at least half a liter of water for every hour you plan to be hiking,” Peikon said — even more when hiking in the heat.
![Selfie hiking](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/selfie-hiking.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Selfies can distract hikers from their surroundings, which can increase the risk of falls or cause them to miss a hazard, according to hiking experts. (iStock)
Very few water sources are safe to drink without purification, deBrun cautioned.
“Research water sources and bring a water purification system for longer hikes,” he said.
9. Use caution with cellphones and selfies
Selfies can distract hikers from their surroundings, which can increase the risk of falls or cause them to miss a hazard, according to hiking experts.
“It is always tragic to hear of fatalities due to selfies, which does happen every year in U.S. national parks,” Coe told Fox News Digital.
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If you need to use your phone, stop walking and stay aware of your surroundings, he said.
“Use your phone only for emergency calls and navigation as needed,” Coe added.
Melissa Rudy of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.
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How an Iron Deficiency Can Result in Hair Loss, Plus the Easy Ways To Fix It Including a Real-Life Success Story
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