FDA Issues Warning: Eye Drops Could Cause Vision Loss Due To Contamination

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about 26 over-the-counter eye drop products, including well-known store brands like CVS, Target, and Rite Aid, which could lead to serious eye infections and potentially result in vision loss or blindness. 

The FDA discovered “insanitary conditions in the manufacturing facility and positive bacterial test results from environmental sampling of critical drug production areas” in the facility responsible for producing these products, prompting the recommendation for a product recall.

These eye drops, marketed under brands such as CVS Health, Rite Aid, Target Up&Up, Leader (Cardinal Health), Rugby (Cardinal Health), and Velocity Pharma, are designed to be sterile. While no injuries have been reported thus far, the FDA advises anyone experiencing signs or symptoms of an eye infection after using these products to consult a healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention.

For more information, visit: fda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan Health Department Urges CO Detector Installation To Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging residents of Michigan to take preventive measures against carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning as they set their clocks back for the end of daylight saving time on Sunday, November 5th. 

CO, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless toxic gas responsible for numerous home poisonings.

Most CO incidents occur due to improperly installed or maintained fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, generators, gas grills, and more. CO forms when fossil fuels like wood, propane, and gasoline are burned. 

State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer emphasizes the importance of CO detectors, stating, “Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors save lives.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 100,000 people visit the emergency department nationwide each year due to accidental CO poisoning.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Victor Super Premium Dog Food Recalled Due To Salmonella Contamination

Mid America Pet Food, based in Mount Pleasant, Texas, has issued a voluntary recall of three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula produced at its Mount Pleasant facility. The recall is due to the potential contamination of Salmonella.

Salmonella can pose health risks to animals consuming the contaminated food and also to humans who may handle the pet products without thoroughly washing their hands afterward.

Pets affected by Salmonella may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some may only show signs of decreased appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. Even seemingly healthy pets can carry the infection and transmit it to other animals or humans. 

For more information, visit: fda.gov.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Fort Gratiot Charter Township Plans Public Hearing For Solar Energy Project Land Use Approval

The Fort Gratiot Charter Township Planning Commission has scheduled a special public hearing on Wednesday, November 8th, at 6:00 p.m., to discuss Portside Solar, LLC’s request for special land use approval for a large principal-use solar energy system. The hearing will take place at the Blue Water Convention Center, located at 800 Harker Street, Port Huron.

The purpose of the hearing is to allow the public to hear comments and/or objections and to take action. 

Residents are encouraged to review the proposal at the Fort Gratiot Municipal Center during regular business hours or online at fortgratiot.us under the “Minutes and Agendas, Planning Commission” section. 

Written comments can be submitted until 4:30 p.m., on November 8th, either by mail, through a building drop box at the Fort Gratiot Municipal Center, or via email at planning@fortgratiot.us.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Dr. Christina Gallina-Flood Named 2023 National Woman Of The Year By NACW

The National Association of Career Women (NACW) has proudly awarded the esteemed title of 2023 National Woman of the Year to Dr. Christina Gallina-Flood, recognizing her unwavering commitment to personal and professional excellence.

The NACW bestows this honor upon women who consistently uphold the highest standards in both personal and professional spheres while remaining actively engaged in their careers. Dr. Gallina-Flood’s dedication to continuous education and development across all aspects of her life has been commendable. Her success in her field, achieved through relentless effort and perseverance, has earned her recognition from her professional peers.

Furthermore, her selfless contributions in helping and mentoring others, coupled with acts of kindness, generous time investment, and boundless energy, exemplify the spirit of the award. Dr. Gallina-Flood shares this prestigious title with Elizabeth Read from the Lansing Chapter of NACW.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

More Than Just A Fall Flavor: The Health Benefit Of Pumpkins

Beyond being Halloween decorations and Thanksgiving pie fillings, pumpkins are hailed for their numerous health benefits. They are packed with antioxidants, low in calories, nutrient-dense, and an excellent source of fiber. 

Pumpkins’ vibrant orange hue signifies their richness in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Additionally, they are a treasure trove of vitamins C, E, and B6, along with essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, thiamin, folate, niacin, iron, and riboflavin.

Recent studies reveal that pumpkins play a role in cancer prevention. Lycopene and carotenoids found in pumpkins have demonstrated protective effects against prostate cancer. 

Incorporating pumpkins, along with other foods like tomatoes, spinach, watermelon, and citrus fruits, may contribute to a lower prostate cancer risk, making these autumn favorites more appealing for health-conscious individuals.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell