Health

What’s antibiotic resistance and what you can do about it

I’ve written about antibiotic resistance a number of times. Antibiotic resistance happens when germs such as bacteria and fungi develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. That means the germs aren’t killed and continue to grow. Resistant infections can be difficult, and sometimes impossible, to treat.

12 more children die after two infant sleepers are recalled

If you have a child or grandchild or are a caregiver, you need to know about the dangers of infant sleepers. More than 100 deaths have been reported incRock ‘n’ Play Sleepers, which were recalled in April 2019. However, although 4.7 million were recalled, as of March 2022, only 9.5 percent of the sleepers had been accounted for.

Congress passes STURDY Act to prevent furniture tip-over deaths

Another issue that should have been adequately addressed decades ago was also included in the congressional end-of-year spending bill. Starting in mid-2023, all new dressers and other clothing storage furniture in the United States will have to meet strong stability requirements before going to market.

Weak cosmetics laws updated, finally, but problems remain

Of the many consumer laws I’ve reported on over the years, weak laws on personal care products such as cosmetics are among the most frustrating. The United States has lagged behind the rest of the world in regulating the contaminants and ingredients in personal care products. More than 80 other countries have taken action to protect their citizens.

Are you aware that two models of Peloton treadmills have been recalled?

I hope keeping up with recalls is one of the items on your “good consumer” list. On May 5, 2021, the Peloton Tread+ treadmill was recalled because incidents associated with pull under and entrapment in the rear of the treadmills, and the Peloton Tread was recalled because the console on the Tread could detach and fall, posing a risk of injury to consumers.

Looking at the past and the future as we move forward in 2023

I don’t know about you, but 2022 went by so fast for me. After four years, I was finally able to get the first draft of the book about my journalism career done, but the printed copy is still elusive. I’m not a person who makes resolutions, but I’ve written about why people make them and how well they work or don’t work.

Top consumer and personal finance stories of 2022

It’s time for my annual article on the top consumer and personal finance articles of the year. As usual, there aren’t many reporters covering this important topic. However, in addition to the best news, health, political, and science stories of the year, there’s a new category: the top climate change stories.

Medicare Advantage plans: Beware of the hype

I missed writing about Medicare Advantage plans during open enrollment from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 when you can join, switch, or drop a plan. I always know when it occurs: my mail box and email are flooded with ads and TV and social media, too. I also get phone calls about the plans.

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