Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Ebola outbreak claims Red Cross lives, Lyme disease cases surge in England, Age-adjusted D-dimer improves DVT

1. 01

   Ebola outbreak in DRC claims lives of three Red Cross workers

   Three Red Cross volunteers died in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) amid a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak, with over 1000 cases reported. The volunteers were involved in managing the bodies of Ebola victims, and their deaths occurred between 5 and 16 May. The World Health Organization's director general expressed condolences, noting their sacrifice in the line of duty. British researchers are developing an experimental vaccine for the outbreak's strain, which currently lacks approved treatments.

   via BMJ

2. 02

   Lyme disease cases in England increase by over 20%

   The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a more than 20% rise in Lyme disease cases in England over the past year, with laboratory confirmed acute cases increasing from 959 in 2024 to 1168 in 2025. This marks a significant rise, although the 2025 figure is similar to the 2023 total of 1151 cases. Lyme disease remains the most common locally acquired vector-borne infection in England. The UKHSA noted an increasing distribution of ticks, which can vary annually due to weather, climate, and habitat changes.

   via BMJ

3. 03

   Study Finds Age-Adjusted D-Dimer Cutoffs Improve DVT Diagnosis

   A study by Dr Le Gal and colleagues has shown that using age-adjusted D-dimer cutoffs can enhance the diagnostic yield for suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The research indicates that this approach increased the proportion of negative D-dimer results from 24.5% to 31.9%, identifying 161 additional patients with values between 500 µg/L and the age-adjusted threshold. This finding could influence diagnostic practices and improve patient management in general practice.

   via JAMA · also covered by JAMA, JAMA

4. 04

   Arrow International Recalls Dialysis Catheter Kits

   Arrow International is recalling dialysis catheter kits that contain Merit Medical Splittable Sheath Introducers. This action addresses safety concerns associated with these devices. The recall affects healthcare providers using these kits in outpatient settings. Clinicians should be aware of this recall to ensure patient safety.

   via FDA MedWatch

5. 05

   Social media use in youth likened to smoking by medical leaders

   The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AMRC) has declared young people's social media use a public health emergency comparable to smoking. This statement accompanies the academy's response to the government's consultation on potential restrictions for social media among under-16s, including a possible ban. AMRC chair Jeanette Dickson emphasised the widespread concern among clinicians regarding the negative health impacts of excessive screen time on children and young people. Despite debates over direct causation, there is a strong consensus on the potential harm.

   via BMJ

6. 06

   Discussion on Licensure Framework for Autonomous Clinical AI

   A recent Perspective in JAMA examines the need for a licensure framework for autonomous clinical artificial intelligence (AI). This discussion arises amid concerns regarding the clinical care workforce shortage. The proposed framework aims to address the implications of integrating AI into healthcare delivery. The topic is particularly relevant as healthcare systems seek innovative solutions to workforce challenges.

   via JAMA

MDDR is a news digest for medical professionals. It is not medical advice and should not be relied on for clinical decision-making.