Vitamin D: opt for medicines to avoid overdosing infants
Three new cases of vitamin D overdose have recently been reported in infants as a result of taking food supplements. Too much vitamin D can have serious, life-threatening consequences for the health of young children. To limit risks, we are reiterating our recommendations on the vitamin D supplementation of infants.
By analysing the DNA of Echinococcus multilocularis parasitic tapeworms, an international group of scientists led by ANSES has determined how foxes carried this worm, responsible for alveolar echinococcosis, from the Alps to Northern and Eastern Europe.
Protect consumers through better regulation of intense pulsed light hair removal
Whether carried out by professionals or at home, hair removal using intense pulsed light (IPL) can cause adverse effects such as burns, blisters and eye damage. To prevent these risks and better protect consumer health, ANSES recommends that these devices be covered by a suitable regulatory framework. The Agency also stresses the importance of better training for professionals and informing users of the contraindications and best practices to be followed.
Eric Vial appointed Risk Assessment Director of ANSES
Éric Vial was appointed Risk Assessment Director of ANSES on 2 August 2021. He now coordinates the Agency's scientific expert appraisal activities on the health risks associated with food, the environment and work or affecting animal and plant health. Éric Vial is thus continuing a career committed to the public interest, safeguarding the health of populations and the environment.
The mushroom-picking season has come early this year: take care to avoid the risk of poisoning
The weather conditions in July and August this year have favoured early foraging for wild mushrooms. Many cases of poisoning due to consumption have already been observed. These can be serious (severe digestive disorders, kidney complications or liver damage that may require a transplant) and even fatal. Whether you are a connoisseur or an occasional picker, you should remain vigilant and comply with good practices to ensure safe consumption.
A new method for monitoring the spread of a deadly bee disease
ANSES has developed a new method that can accurately identify the strains of bacteria responsible for American foulbrood, a deadly bee disease. This method will make it possible to trace the origin of infections and refine health measures to prevent transmission of this disease, for which no treatment is available.
The swallowing by young children of water beads can cause serious and sometimes fatal accidents. Because the number of cases of ingestion has increased sharply, we are issuing an alert to parents and carers, and reminding them of the importance of keeping these objects out of the reach of these children.
While the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission via aerosols has been scientifically confirmed, the exact contribution of this contamination route remains to be determined. ANSES has identified several research priorities in order to produce the data needed to adjust the protection levels required in various indoor environments, such as public transport, restaurants and sports facilities.