FDA OKs High-Speed Flu Test

FDA: No proof kits are safe, effective

(AP) - Drugstore giant Walgreen Co. will hold off selling over-the-counter genetic tests. The company announced Tuesday that the kits would be on shelves this month, but reversed the decision after a stiff response from regulators. "These kits have not been proven safe, effective, or accurate," an FDA rep said. The tests would have been the first low-cost, mass-marketed product to screen for genes associated with diseases like prostate cancer, cystic fibrosis, and diabetes. Click here to read more about the tests. More»

(NEWSER) - The US could experience an extended or even year-round flu season thanks to H1N1, the Centers for Disease Control said yesterday. Researchers theorize that a combination of unprepared immune systems and the unusually cool spring could be contributing to the steady stream of flu infections. “The fact that we are seeing ongoing transmission now indicates that we are seeing something different,” said one CDC doctor. More»

(AP) - Nestle is voluntarily recalling Toll House refrigerated cookie dough products after a number of illnesses were reported by those who ate the dough raw. The FDA and CDC are investigating reported E. coli illnesses that might be related, the company said. Sixty-six reports of illness in 28 states have come in since March, and about 25 people have been hospitalized. No one has died. More»

(NEWSER) - President Barack Obama was exposed this month in Mexico to a potential case of swine flu the day before the ailing Mexican official died, reports the Independent. Distinguished archeologist Felipe Solis, who met Obama at a state dinner, showed the president around Mexico's anthropology museum 11 days ago during Obama's visit to Mexico. Solis died the following day from "flu-like symptoms," according to Mexican press reports. Mexican officials deny Solis suffered from swine flu, and said he died of pneumonia. More»

Newly detected swine flu virus may be spreading from person to person

(NEWSER) - Seven people in California and Texas have been struck by swine flu despite having no contact with pigs, the Los Angeles Times reports. Baffled investigators believe the unusual, newly detected form of the flu may be spreading from person to person. The symptoms are similar to standard influenza, leading officials to believe there may be more undetected cases out there. More»