Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unexpected increase in greenery in Lanzhou, which has led to a rise in pollen allergies due to the proliferation of mugwort, a common allergenic plant [1][4][5]. Group 1: Environmental Changes - In early August, social media users noted a surprising transformation of the landscape around Lanzhou, with previously barren hills now covered in green [1][3]. - The increase in rainfall this summer, with August recording 156.3 mm, 1.4 times the average, has contributed to the rapid growth of mugwort [11][35]. - The mugwort plants, which are known for their high pollen production, have thrived in the newly green environment, leading to significant allergy issues for residents [6][11][12]. Group 2: Allergy Impact - The pollen from mugwort can cause severe allergic reactions, with reports of increased symptoms among residents, including sneezing and nasal congestion [10][12][17]. - A specific report indicated that on August 31, the pollen concentration reached 1508 grains per 1000 mm of air, primarily from mugwort [12][18]. - The allergy season has been prolonged this year, with residents expressing concerns about the ongoing high pollen levels into September [15][16]. Group 3: Public Health Response - In response to the allergy crisis, local health authorities in Lanzhou have initiated mugwort removal activities, clearing over 20,000 square meters by September 11 [21][22]. - Other northern cities have implemented similar measures to combat pollen allergies, highlighting a growing public health concern [19][20]. - The article emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts in both removing allergenic plants and planting more trees to restore ecological balance [30][31][37].

Core Viewpoint - The recent cholera outbreak in Sudan has resulted in significant health crises, with a high number of infections and fatalities reported across multiple states [1] Summary by Categories Cholera Outbreak - The cholera outbreak has spread to 17 out of 18 states in Sudan since its onset in July 2024, with a total of 84,531 reported cases and 2,145 deaths [1] Other Health Crises - In addition to cholera, Sudan is facing severe dengue fever and measles outbreaks, with 13,314 reported dengue cases resulting in 21 deaths, and 2,547 measles cases with 6 fatalities [1] Supply and Resource Challenges - The Sudanese Ministry of Health has indicated a significant shortage of preventive medicines and supplies, with some states having only about half of the necessary resources to meet demand [1]

Core Viewpoint - The investigation into the abnormal blood lead levels in children from a kindergarten in Tianshui, Gansu Province, revealed that the issue stemmed from the illegal use of colored paint in food preparation by the kitchen staff [1][2]. Group 1: Incident Details - The Tianshui City investigation team found that the principal and investor of the kindergarten instructed kitchen staff to purchase colored paint online, which was then diluted and used in food [1]. - The police seized remaining paint that was hidden, which was confirmed to contain lead and was labeled as inedible [1]. - Two food samples from the kindergarten showed lead content of 1052 mg/kg and 1340 mg/kg, significantly exceeding the national food safety standard limit of 0.5 mg/kg [1]. Group 2: Health Impact and Response - A total of 251 children were tested, with 233 showing abnormal blood lead levels and 18 normal [1]. - Following the incident, experts from the Gansu Provincial Health Commission and the National Health Commission were dispatched to provide medical guidance and treatment [2]. - The case has been classified as a public health incident resulting from a criminal act, leading to the detention of eight individuals involved for producing toxic and harmful food [2].