Rapid Respiratory Microbiological Point-of-Care Testing and Antibiotic Use in Primary Care – A Randomized Clinical Trial
This randomized clinical trial evaluated whether rapid multiplex respiratory microbiological point-of-care testing (RM-POCT) in primary care could reduce antibiotic prescribing for patients with acute respiratory tract infections. Among 552 patients, the intervention did not reduce same-day antibiotic prescribing compared with usual care (45% in both groups) and showed no difference in short-term symptom severity, indicating no harm or clinical benefit in routine prescribing behavior overall. Clinical implications: The findings suggest that routine RM-POCT is unlikely to reduce antibiotic use at a population level in primary care and should not yet be widely adopted as an antimicrobial stewardship strategy without further refinement. Full Access: JAMA
Shorter- Versus Longer-Course Antibiotics in Children with Acute Uncomplicated UTIs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses
This study compared shorter (2–5 days) versus longer (≥7 days) antibiotic courses for children with acute uncomplicated UTIs. Across 13 randomized trials including ~2,000 children, shorter-course therapy showed rates of clinical cure, relapse, reinfection, and adverse events similar to those of longer regimens, with no meaningful differences in efficacy or safety. Evidence quality ranged from moderate to high for key outcomes, supporting non-inferiority of shorter treatment durations. Clinical implications: These findings support consideration of reducing antibiotic duration in uncomplicated pediatric UTIs, which may decrease total antibiotic exposure, reduce adverse effects, and help limit antimicrobial resistance without compromising outcomes. Full Access: Clinical Microbiology and Infection
Most teens don’t know they can receive confidential STI treatment
Most adolescents are unaware that they can legally receive confidential STI and HIV testing and treatment without parental consent, despite such protections existing in many states. A national survey found that teens who understood these rights were more than twice as likely to undergo STI testing compared with those who did not. The study also emphasizes that confidentiality barriers persist through insurance billing, patient portals, and limited provider education. Clinical implications: The findings underscore the importance of proactive counseling by healthcare providers and schools regarding confidential sexual health services to improve STI screening, early treatment, and prevention among adolescents. Full Access: CIDRAP
Amateur Soccer Heading and Acute Elevations in Blood-Based p-Tau217 and S100B
This prospective case-control study found that amateur soccer heading was associated with acute increases in blood biomarkers linked to neural injury, particularly p-tau217 and S100B, with greater elevations seen after more frequent and higher-impact headers. Biomarker levels normalized within 24–48 hours, but the findings suggest even routine subconcussive impacts may transiently affect neural integrity. Clinical implications: The study adds to growing evidence connecting repetitive head impacts with potential long-term neurodegenerative risk in soccer players and highlights the potential future role of blood biomarkers in sports-related brain injury monitoring and prevention strategies. Full Access: JAMA
WHO Declares Ebola Outbreak an Emergency as CDC Restricts Travel, Confirms US Doctor Infected
The WHO has declared a rapidly evolving Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, prompting coordinated international response efforts. Concurrently, CDC has confirmed at least one infected American healthcare worker in the DRC and implemented enhanced travel restrictions, screening, and monitoring measures for travelers from affected regions. Clinical implications: Urgent Care clinicians should maintain heightened vigilance for travel-related febrile illness, promptly isolate suspected cases, and coordinate promptly with public health authorities to prevent secondary transmission. Full Access: WHO