Birthdays are exciting for everyone. There's celebration, a cake, and balloons. But what if it goes wrong? This is what happened with Giang Pham, from Vietnam, who was celebrating her 33rd birthday on February 14, when a hydrogen balloon in her hand touched the flame from the candle on the cake and exploded on her face.

This incident was also captured on camera. The footage clearly shows how the balloon blew up as soon as it touched the flame. Her friends were shocked and can be heard gasping in the background as they saw this.

In the days following the incident, she also shared photos on her Instagram showing her bandaged face, and revealed the first-degree burns on her hand and second-degree burns on her face. However, the good news was that her vision was unaffected, though for her face to recover, it would take months.

She is now also warning others about the risks of using highly inflammable hydrogen balloons. The other alternative could be a helium balloon, which you could fly higher and they remain on the ceiling.

Health Update

She revealed that her doctor estimated up to six months for her skin to recover. She would still have to go to the hospital for dressing and treatment. Another such case happened with a woman named Tine from Australia, when on her son's 7th birthday, the balloon exploded and "shook her house". Her son was burned in the forearm.

Such incidents happen because decorators want to save the cost by replacing helium with hydrogen, which is highly inflammable.

In Healing

Giang shared that she experienced second-degree burn on her face and first-degree burn on her hands. As per John Hopkins Medicine, first degree burns affect only the epidermis, or the outer layer of skin. The burn site becomes red, painful, dry, however, there are no blisters. A mild sunburn could be an example of such a burn. This is also called superficial burns.

Whereas, second degree burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of the skin. The burn site appears red, blistered and could also be swollen and painful. This is also known as partial thickness burn.

Then comes the third degree burns, also known as full thickness burn. This destroys the epidermis and dermis and could also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. However, when the bones and muscles are burned, it could be referred to as a fourth degree burn. The burn sit appears white or charred and there is no feeling in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.

How burns are treated?

The right way to treat a burn depends on its depth and how much of the body it covers. While minor, superficial burns can be managed at home, deeper or larger burns may need medical attention. Keep these essential guidelines in mind:

Do:

• Remove the source of the burn immediately – For example, take off clothing soaked in hot liquid to prevent further damage.
• Run cool water over the burn – This helps soothe the skin, except in cases of certain chemical burns.
• Keep the burn clean and protected – Cover it with a clean, non-stick bandage when possible.
• Seek medical help – If the burn is deeper than a superficial layer, larger than your hand, or full-thickness, see a doctor.

Don’t:

• Use home remedies like bleach or butter – These can make the burn worse.
• Apply ointments or creams on deep burns – They can trap heat and worsen the injury.
• Put ice on the burn – It can cause more damage to the skin.
• Pop blisters – This increases the risk of infection.

Knowing these simple steps can make a big difference in burn care and healing.

Los Angeles County has recorded its first flu-related death of the season, the LA County Department of Public Health announced Wednesday.

The individual was an “older adult” with pre-existing health conditions. Officials noted that the person had likely not received a flu vaccine for this season, which generally spans from October through May.

Although flu cases are still low in November, health authorities expect the number of infections to rise as holiday travel and indoor gatherings increase.

First Flu Death In LA County

"The LA County Department of Public Health reported Wednesday the first flu-related death of the season in Los Angeles County. “We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. This sad loss underscores the serious risks posed by influenza,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County health officer, in a news release.

Flu activity remains low for now, but it is anticipated to climb around Thanksgiving and the broader holiday period, when travel and indoor events are more common.

Experts advise getting vaccinated at least two weeks before holiday travel or gatherings, since it takes time for immunity to develop.

They also recommend wearing a properly fitted mask in crowded indoor settings, particularly for households with older adults, children under five, or pregnant women.

Flu Shot Guidelines and Eligibility

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual influenza vaccine, with rare exceptions for specific medical conditions. Annual vaccination is especially important for high-risk groups, including:

• Older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above
• Young children under five, especially under two years
• Pregnant individuals
• People with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
• Residents of long-term care facilities

Timing: The ideal time to get a flu shot is before flu activity peaks, usually in early fall. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build full immunity, so getting vaccinated before holiday travel and gatherings is crucial.

Flu Shot: Types of Vaccines

Several flu vaccines are available, including standard-dose, high-dose for older adults, and nasal spray options for certain age groups. Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate option based on age, health status, and any contraindications.

Flu vaccines are generally safe. Mild side effects like soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or fatigue may occur, but serious reactions are extremely rare. Individuals with severe allergies to vaccine components should consult their healthcare provider before vaccination.

Even after vaccination, preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and avoiding contact with sick individuals can help reduce flu transmission.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is promoting a long-debunked theory, suggesting a potential link between vaccines and autism, and claiming that studies supporting this connection “have been ignored by health authorities.”

CDC Pushes Controversial Vaccine-Autism Theory

The disputed theory appeared on a revised section of the CDC’s website under “Autism and Vaccines” on Wednesday. The website now states: “The statement ‘Vaccines do not cause autism’ is not an evidence-based claim. Scientific studies have not ruled out the possibility that infant vaccines contribute to the development of autism.

However, this statement has historically been shared by the CDC and other federal health agencies within HHS to prevent vaccine hesitancy.” The agency added that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has “launched a thorough review of the causes of autism, including investigations on plausible biological mechanisms and potential causal links.”

It also noted, “This webpage will be updated with gold-standard science.” Prior to Wednesday, the page stated there is “no link” between vaccines and autism, and no vaccine ingredients were connected to the condition, according to archived versions cited by The Washington Post.

CDC Faces Criticism

Another part of the site, “About Vaccines for Your Children,” last updated in August 2024, still asserts, “Scientific studies and reviews continue to show no relationship between vaccines and autism.” Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, a former CDC official who resigned earlier this year as head of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, criticized the changes, saying on X, “The weaponization of the voice of CDC is getting worse. DO NOT TRUST THIS AGENCY. This is a national embarrassment.” Despite the new language, the header “Vaccines do not cause autism” remains due to an agreement with Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), chair of the Senate Health Committee, who cast the deciding vote to advance Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination to the full Senate floor.

CDC Staff Shocked

The revisions surprised CDC staff, including those overseeing vaccine safety and autism information, leaving them blindsided, according to The Post. “We just saw it, and everyone is freaking out,” one scientist said, as per NBC News.

While the changes could undermine public confidence in vaccines, Kennedy and Trump have historically supported this theory. Both have also warned against Tylenol use during pregnancy, claiming a link to autism, despite large-scale studies disproving any connection.

What Is The Vaccine And Autism Link About?

Autism spectrum disorder, or autism, is a condition that affects the brain, making it challenging for some people to communicate and interact with others. Experts still don’t fully understand what causes it.

The idea that vaccines might play a role largely began with a 1998 study suggesting that the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine—or infection with the natural measles virus—could lead to autism. Since then, numerous scientific studies have shown there is no connection between vaccines or any of their ingredients and autism.

The 1998 study itself was later discredited: the research was found to be false, the doctor responsible lost his medical license, and the journal that published the paper retracted it, acknowledging it should never have been published.

Despite strong evidence showing vaccines are safe and effective, some parents still choose to delay or skip vaccinations for their children. This can be very dangerous, as diseases like measles, which vaccines prevent, are still circulating. An unvaccinated child who contracts one of these illnesses can become seriously ill or even die and may also put others at risk.

While mild reactions like a fever or rash can occur after vaccination, the chance of a serious side effect from the MMR or other recommended vaccines is very small compared to the risks of the diseases they protect against.

A major claim from China has sparked global curiosity and debate after a Shenzhen-based biotechnology company announced that it has developed a longevity pill capable of significantly slowing ageing.

A biotechnology company in Shenzhen, China, has caught worldwide attention by claiming to have created a pill that could dramatically slow the ageing process. According to the firm, the pill may one day help humans live up to 150 years by targeting ageing at the cellular level.

As per The Independent, Lonvi Biosciences says its formula focuses on ‘zombie cells’—aged cells that refuse to die, causing inflammation and age-related illnesses. Let’s take a closer look at the pill and explore whether this ambitious claim could be possible.

‘Zombie cell’ Pill From China Promises Life Till 150

The Shenzhen-based company, part of China’s rapidly growing longevity industry, claims it has produced a pill that could theoretically stretch human life to 150 years. The formula targets so-called “zombie cells”—older cells that resist dying, leading to inflammation and disease associated with ageing. “This is not just another pill. This is the Holy Grail,” said CEO Ip Zhu, calling the capsule a breakthrough that could make extreme longevity achievable. The main ingredient comes from grape seeds and has shown in lab studies to extend lifespan in animals by delaying age-related diseases. Lonvi’s researchers suggest that taking the pill in adulthood could push life expectancy past 120, while starting from birth could surpass 150.

How Will The ‘Zombie Cell’ Pill Work?

The pill contains procyanidin C1 (PCC1), a compound extracted from grape seeds. In experiments with mice, Lonvi claims the treatment increased overall lifespan by 9.4%, with a remarkable 64% improvement when dosing started from the very beginning. Lyu Qinghua, Lonvi’s chief technology officer, told The New York Times that reaching 150 is “definitely realistic” and could be possible “within a few years.”

China has made anti-ageing research a national priority, with President Xi Jinping reportedly discussing it with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Anti-ageing research, combined with AI and biotech, has quickly moved from niche interest to mainstream focus in the country.

Do Grape Seeds Have Anti-Ageing Effects?

A study in Nature Metabolism showed that procyanidin C1 from grape seed extract successfully extended both the lifespan and health span of mice, paving the way for future clinical trials.

Cellular senescence plays a key role in ageing, occurring when cells can no longer perform their functions. In recent years, researchers have identified drugs called senolytics, which can eliminate these senescent cells in the lab and in animal studies. This approach is an important step toward reducing age-related chronic diseases and could play a critical role in extending lifespan.

Can The ‘Zombie Cell’ Pill Really Extend Life Span To 150 Years?

While the company’s claims have not yet been tested in human trials, scientists believe the approach holds promise for extending life. Lonvi’s researchers say the PCC1 pill can boost cellular health, delay deterioration, and maintain energy production over time. They suggest that when combined with a healthy lifestyle, the pill could help people live beyond 100, and possibly even past 120, while also reducing diseases linked to ageing.