Singer Jesy Nelson recently shared an emotional update regarding the complications she is experiencing in her pregnancy with twin babies. Former Little Mix singer Jesy, who is having twins with partner Zion Foster, announced that she has been diagnosed with pre-twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (pre-TTTS). The condition, which is present in pregnancies involving twins with a shared placenta, has serious risks involved and needs intense medical supervision. As Nelson embarks on this difficult journey, her story enlightens us about a rare but dangerous condition many expectant parents may not know much about.

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is a rare but dangerous condition that arises in monochorionic twin pregnancies, in which identical twins share a single placenta. The placenta supplies the developing babies with oxygen, nutrients, and blood flow, but in TTTS, there is an imbalance of blood vessels that interconnect the twins, and thus the vital resources are not evenly distributed. One twin, or the donor twin, shares excess blood with the other, referred to as the recipient twin. This leads to one baby becoming malnourished and possibly anemic, and the other in danger of heart problems due to too much blood.

Nelson described her diagnosis in a heartfelt Instagram video, explaining that she is currently in the pre-stage of TTTS and undergoing frequent monitoring. "I am being scanned twice a week, and each time, things have gotten a little worse," she shared, expressing her fears and hopes for the health of her babies.

Potential Risks of TTTS

If left untreated, TTTS can have devastating consequences. Medical research indicates that:

• 90% of the cases of untreated TTTS lead to loss of one or both twins.
• Despite treatment, only a 70% survival rate for both twins is assured.
• Severe forms can result in preterm labor, cardiac failure in the recipient twin, and organ failure in the donor twin.
• Complications in long-term survivors include neurological damage and developmental delay in surviving infants.

TTTS usually advances in stages, beginning with minimal changes in fluid levels and worsening as one twin continues to get an unequal share of blood. In extreme cases, fetal laser surgery, referred to as the Solomon technique, can be employed to divide the blood vessels and balance the twins.

Why Identical Twin Pregnancies Are More Complicated

Identical twins may develop differently, and their own unique form of placental sharing can have a dramatic effect on pregnancy risk. Jesy Nelson's twins are considered monochorionic diamniotic (mono/di), which means they share a placenta but have two amniotic sacs. This is the type of pregnancy in about 70% of identical twin pregnancies and carries an increased risk of complications like TTTS, umbilical cord entanglement, and growth restriction.

Conversely, dichorionic diamniotic (di/di) twins both have a separate placenta and amniotic sac, which greatly diminishes the threat of TTTS. Twin pregnancy type is normally identified by early ultrasound, with physicians being able to track future complications from inception.

Other Twin Pregnancy Health Risks

Twin pregnancies, even without the presence of TTTS, entail a variety of health risks to the mother as well as infants:

1. Premature Birth

Over 60% of twin pregnancies end in premature delivery, with birth usually taking place before 37 weeks. Premature infants can have immature organs and need neonatal intensive care (NICU) assistance to assist with breathing, feeding, and infection fighting.

2. Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia

Pregnant women with multiples are at increased risk of having high blood pressure during pregnancy. This, if left untreated, can result in preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can result in damage to organs, preterm labor, and in some cases, maternal or fetal death.

3. Anemia

Pregnant women carrying multiples are twice as likely to experience anemia, a condition where the body does not produce enough healthy red blood cells. This can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and complications during delivery.

4. Birth Defects

According to John Hopkins Medicine, multiple birth babies are twice as likely to have congenital abnormalities compared to single births. These can include heart defects, neural tube defects, and gastrointestinal issues.

5. Amniotic Fluid Imbalances

When twins have to share a placenta, they are more likely to have polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid) or oligohydramnios (not enough amniotic fluid). Both result in distress to the babies during fetal development and can result in premature labor.

6. Postpartum Hemorrhage

Twins are at increased risk of excessive postpartum hemorrhage because their uterus is larger and there are greater blood supply needs.

Jesy Nelson's openness about her challenging experience is raising awareness for TTTS, a condition that few individuals—let alone expectant mothers and fathers—might be aware of. Through her tearful video, Nelson stressed the significance of knowing about twin pregnancies aside from the thrill of having multiples. "We had no idea that this type of thing occurs when you're having twins. We just desperately want to make people aware of this because there are so many people who aren't aware."

Her case reminds us of the intricacies involved in twin pregnancy and the significance of early identification and medical management. For mothers carrying twins, frequent ultrasounds and vigilance can become a life-and-death issue for early detection and better outcomes of both babies.

Through constant medical attention and care, she and her partner Zion Foster remain positive and get ready for their babies to be born. In other parents whose situations are no different, the story of Nelson highlights awareness, medical progress, and emotional encouragement in handling complicated pregnancies.

The expecting parents of twin siblings are advised to discuss TTTS screening and possible interventions with their physicians to give their babies the best chance.

"We just saw it, and everyone is freaking out," told one scientists to the Washington Post on account of anonymity on seeing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) update its website backpedaling on the link between vaccines and autism. The said link had long been debunked, however, the Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. has echoed the thought, and has a long history of critiquing vaccines and linking it to autism.

The agency's website was updated on Thursday and under Autism and Vaccine, it notes: 'The claim "vaccines do not cause autism" is not an evidence-based claim because studies have not ruled out the possibility that infant vaccine cause autism.'

The first header reads: 'Vaccine do not cause autism', the reason the header has not been removed is all thanks to an agreement with the chair of the US Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pension Committee that it would remain on the CDC website, as per the website.

As the Post reported, the scientists did not have any prior information about the changes to the website, neither were they consulted for it. Before the Wednesday update, the CDC website stated that studies have shown that there is "no link" between vaccines and developing autism in infants. The website previously stated that "no links" have been found between any vaccine ingredients and disorders.

Read: CDC Plans Vaccine-Autism Study Despite Scientific Consensus

The CDC's Claim: Autism and Vaccine Link

As per the CDC website, approximately 1 in 2 surveyed parents of autistic children believe vaccines played a role in their child's autism. For this, the CDC cites a 2006 survey published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. The CDC notes that these vaccines are often those that the child receives in the first six months of life, including Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP), Hepatitis B (HepB), Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib), Poliovirus, inactivated (IPV), and Pneumococcal conjugate (PCV) and one given at or after the first year of life (Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)).

According to CDC a timeline has been provided that shows the correlation between the prevalence in autism cases and higher doses of the above mentioned vaccines. In 1986, the CDC recommended five infant vaccine doses: two oral polio (OPV) doses and three DTP injections. By 2025, the schedule expanded to include multiple doses of rotavirus, HepB, DTaP, Hib, PCV, IPV, influenza, and, at 12 months, MMR, varicella, and HepA.

Autism rates have risen since the 1980s, and while this trend coincides with an increase in recommended childhood vaccines, correlation alone does not establish causation. Autism is believed to have multiple contributing factors, and some researchers have examined possible environmental links. One study reported a statistical correlation between aluminum adjuvants and autism prevalence.

Read: Fact Check: Does Aluminum In Vaccines Cause Food Allergies As RFK Jr Claims?

While the CDC notes that correlation does not prove causation it also mentions that "it does merit further study".

What Are The Scientists Saying?

“CDC cannot currently be trusted as a scientific voice,” said Demetre Daskalakis, who formerly led the agency’s center responsible for respiratory viruses and immunizations. He resigned in August. “My question is, how language that misrepresents decades of research ended up on a CDC website,” said Debra Houry, the CDC’s former chief medical officer who also resigned in August.

However, the spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services that oversees the CDC, Andrew Nixon, said, "We are updating the CDC’s website to reflect gold standard, evidence-based science.”

The Origin Of This Vaccine-Autism Theory

This originated from now debunked 1998 study, which was retracted after its author, Andrew Wakefield, was found guilty of professional misconduct and barred from practicing medicine in the UK. Despite decades or research no such link could be proven, however, the claim still continues in the political and public discourse.

Kennedy, who had long been anti-vaxxer, also made numerous claims, even though studies have long debunked this theory.

Many years of extensive study has shown that there is no real connection between vaccines and autism. As per a 2019 study, which was conducted over a decade in Denmark, involving half a million children, confirmed that the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine does not increase any risk of autism. Other studies too have confirmed the same, being studied over large sample sizes. It had reinforced the medical consensus that vaccines are safe and essential for public health.

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.