For many adults, measles was once considered a normal part of childhood. Before vaccines, nearly every child in the United States caught the virus. Today, however, public health experts emphasize that while natural immunity does occur after infection, the risks of measles are far too high when compared to the protection offered by the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Early 2025 data show rising cases in the U.S., a reminder that measles still spreads quickly wherever vaccination
Losing weight is hard. It can be a long process. But when you meet your weight loss goals, the feeling is euphoric. That is until you gain some or all of it back. That’s where a concept called reverse dieting – a way to teach your metabolism by gradually adding calories back after a weight-loss journey – can help. “Reverse dieting is used when you've been on an actual calorie-deficit diet for a while, and you're trying to get to middle ground, where you're no longer
You’re cleaning your house, and you spot it: black spots that could be mold. Uh oh. Do you need to make an appointment with your primary care provider? Do you need to call a professional to remove the substance? They’re questions worth asking to make sure you, your loved ones and your home stay in top shape. What is mold, anyway? Andrew Zasada, MD, an emergency medicine physician at OSF HealthCare, says mold is a fungal growth. Fungi are everywhere, he says, and most don’t
– U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted local, state and regional leaders to discuss ongoing water infrastructure challenges throughout Madison County. As PFAS contamination in drinking water supply has become more prevalent throughout the county, compounded with aging water infrastructure, Duckworth and leaders discussed the need for more funding for the region, an issue Duckworth has been a leader on. Photos from today’s meeting are available on the Senator’s
O’FALLON, Ill. — In recognition of February being National Canned Food Month, HSHS Home Care is holding its annual “Cram the Car” food drive this month for local organizations to help those struggling with food insecurity. “Cram the Car inspires me every year when I see how our neighbors, friends and colleagues come together to care for the community,” said Valerie Engelbart, Volunteer/Bereavement Services Supervisor for HSHS Home Care. “It’s
WGN News will host a debate on February 19 between the leading candidates for the Democratic Party nomination for U.S. Senator from Illinois, moderated by WGN News political editor Tahman Bradley and anchor/reporter Micah Materre.
ALTON - Alton Area Church Women United will host their annual community Lenten services while giving back to local nonprofits. Starting on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, and continuing through Good Friday on April 3, 2026, community members are invited to attend 30-minute Lenten services every Wednesday afternoon. All offerings that are collected during services will be given to Oasis Women’s Center and Crisis Food Center. “We want to have a big crowd, because all the money that’
ST. LOUIS COUNTY - A 17-year-old male was arrested Sunday and remanded to the custody of the St. Louis County Family Court in connection with the fatal shooting of 28-year-old Shannon O’Brien, whose death is under investigation after officers responded to reports of shots fired in Ferguson, Missouri, police said. O'Brien had family ties to Edwardsville and also previously attended EHS. The 17-year-old suspect was arrested Feb. 1, 2026, on allegations of second-degree murder, armed criminal
States that were leaders in childhood vaccination before the pandemic are among those losing ground as exemptions and unfounded skepticism take hold, encouraged by the Trump administration’s stance under U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Expanded exemptions for parents are likely to drop both Mississippi and West Virginia from the top […]
O’FALLON – The Illinois Department of Transportation today announced lane closures on eastbound and westbound Interstate 64 between Illinois 157 and Highway 50 beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, Feb. 9. Traffic will be reduced to two lanes in each direction. If required, nighttime lane closures will occur during the following times: Eastbound I-64 : 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Westbound I-64 : 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. The closures are necessary to perform pavement and bridge work and are expected t
John Mellencamp has thrown his support behind Bad Bunny following the Latin superstar’s Super Bowl halftime show.During his appearance on Real Time With Bill Maher Friday, John talked about how he was forced…
Bell, former St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, is seeking reelection in a race pitting him against Cori Bush, who he defeated in the 2024 Democratic primary
ALTON — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with local housing authorities, municipal leaders and service providers to discuss the ongoing housing affordability crisis and how to expand stable, affordable housing opportunities. As the cost of housing continues to consistently faster than the rate of wages, Duckworth underscored the urgent need to address issues preventing homes from being built and ensuring the homes we do build meet the needs of Veterans, the disability community