Every Australian household and more than one million small businesses will receive $300 off their power bills, as the federal government tries to ease bill shock fuelled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The $300 rebates will apply to more than 10 million households over the course of 2024/25.
Energy companies will apply $75 credits to each quarterly power bill under the rebate scheme.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the energy rebates would put downward pressure on inflation.
“In 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine triggered the biggest shock to global energy prices since the 1970s,” he said in his budget speech to parliament on Tuesday.
“We know Australian families and businesses felt this pain, and that’s why we’ve stepped in to help.
“Electricity prices would have risen 15 per cent in the last year if not for our efforts, instead they rose two per cent.”
Eligible small businesses will also get slightly more relief, with $325 to be taken off their bills over the course of a year.
Government modelling predicts the energy bill relief measure will see household power bills 17 per cent lower than standing offers put forward by power providers.
The rollout of the energy rebate scheme in the budget is an expansion of previous government measures, which provided similar relief to concession holders.
Treasury forecasts have estimated the energy rebates, along with rent assistance payments, would reduce headline inflation by half a percentage point in 2024/25.
Corporate travel planning can be a headache. Flights, car rentals and hotels might be booked through different platforms. Payment can be through company cards or could involve reimbursing employees. Navan, formerly called TripActions, is changing the way companies manage travel with an all-in-one platform. The platform can plan the trip and provide employees with credit cards. Having everything travel-related on one platform helps with expense management; companies get better visibility, cost savings, and control over spending.
Since its launch in 2015 by two veteran entrepreneurs, Navan has grown to provide travel and expense management to companies such as Heineken, Unilever, Adobe, Netflix, Chime and Canva. In the last year, the company doubled its unique users, changed its name to Navan and acquired India-based Tripeur, its fifth acquisition in two years. It also opened offices in Tel Aviv, London, Austin, Bangalore, Sydney, Paris, Amsterdam, San Francisco, and New York.
Like many companies, it also integrated generative AI. Navan rolled out Ava, an AI-powered chatbot, in May. The assistant can answer customer service questions, book trips, change flights, analyze spend data and help companies find opportunities for savings. In June, the company expanded Navan Connect, its expense management and corporate card solution, so finance teams can use Navan without changing corporate cards.
More coverage of the 2024 CNBC Disruptor 50
The closely watched company, which is reportedly targeting an IPO in April of next year, added to its leadership team in recent months. The company named Rich Liu, its former chief revenue officer, as CEO of Navan Travel in April, and at the time of his rehiring, the company described Liu as “an expert on scaling companies from seed to IPO and beyond.”
Navan hasn’t escaped the economic uncertainty looming over companies and corporate spending. The company laid off 5% of its workforce in December, or a total of 145 people. The company is also facing more competition as expense management startups, and fellow Disruptors, Ramp and Brex, are expanding into travel. The company’s last round of fundraising was in October 2022 when it raised $150 million in debt and $154 million in equity, giving the company a valuation of $9.2 billion.
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SHANGHAI, May 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TCT Asia 2024, held from May 7th to 9th at the NECC in Shanghai, was a resounding success, with UnionTech, a leader in China’s additive manufacturing sector, making a notable impact by showcasing its latest 3D printing systems and comprehensive AM solutions.
UnionTech’s Latest AM Systems
At the exhibition, UnionTech presented three advanced AM systems: the industrial-grade SLM metal 3D printer Muees430, the SLA 3D printer Lite380 designed for educational applications, and the professional-grade LCD 3D printer Matrix300. The highlight was a live printing demonstration of the Muees430, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into its capabilities. UnionTech also introduced its subsidiary Synthetic’s innovative materials: the FR-42 V-0 self-extinguishing flame retardant material and the Temp-R220 high-temperature resistant material.
FR-42 V-0 Self-extinguishing Flame Retardant Material
The FR-42 V-0 self-extinguishing flame retardant material sets a new standard in fire safety with its halogen-free technology, ensuring automatic extinguishment once the fire source is removed. Rigorous tests have demonstrated its exceptional performance in both initial combustion and re-ignition scenarios. Designed for large-format SLA printers, it offers excellent toughness, easy handling, reliability, and high surface quality. Its 2.5mm sample has achieved UL 94 V-0 certification, underscoring its superior performance.
Temp-R220 High Temperature Resistant Material
Temp-R220 boasts a heat deformation temperature exceeding 220°C and a long-term use temperature above 250°C. It offers excellent strength and a degree of toughness, making it ideal for large-format SLA printers. The material ensures better stability, reliable accuracy, and exceptional surface quality, even in complex environments.
Comprehensive Application Solutions
UnionTech’s advanced 3D printing systems cater to diverse industries, including footwear, dental, medical, cultural and creative, and automotive. Their technology streamlines complex processes, enhances precision and reduces production costs. In the footwear industry, UnionTech’s solutions simplify mold production and enable intricate engravings. Dental applications benefit from improved diagnostics and customized treatments. The automotive sector utilizes UnionTech’s technology for prototyping, end-use parts, jigs, fixtures, and tire molds, while the cultural and creative industries see enhanced design accuracy and production efficiency. In the medical field, UnionTech’s technology supports digital medicine, offering solutions for both auxiliary and implantable functions, thereby improving treatment outcomes and patient care.
At TCT Asia 2024, UnionTech engaged actively with exhibitors, visitors, and customers, fostering professional discussions on materials, equipment, technology, and applications. This interaction significantly contributed to the advancement of additive manufacturing technology, heralding a new era of innovation and transformation.
PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, May 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — VISTA Eye Specialist (‘VISTA’) is thrilled to announce its upcoming VISTA Parents’ Day Eye Carnival (‘Eye Carnival’), a celebration of family, wellness, and the gift of sight. This special event, held over two weekends, 24-26 May and 31 May – 2 June 2024, across VISTA centers, honors Parents’ Day with the theme “Love Parents with Your Time.”
Prevention through early eye checks key to keeping our parents safe and happy.
Honoring Parents with the Gift of Sight
As parents age, their eyesight naturally changes. Conditions like cataracts, a leading cause of preventable blindness, can cloud their vision and significantly impact their daily lives. Through this Eye Carnival, VISTA aims to raise awareness of the impact that good vision has on our loved ones. Parents have dedicated countless hours to nurturing their children, their eyes witnessing each precious milestone. It’s time to return that gift by ensuring they have the clearest vision possible. The latest advancements in eye surgery, like VISTA’s No-Blade Trifocal Cataract Surgery, can restore their sight, allowing them to enjoy their golden years and maintain their independence fully.
Poor vision can be dangerous. Studies have shown that it can increase the risk of falls and injuries, decreasing mobility and overall well-being. By prioritizing eye health and early detection of conditions like cataracts, we can empower parents to live safer, more fulfilling lives.
Carnival Highlights:
Eye screenings for common eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Focus on family connection: Emphasizes how quality time with loved ones promotes overall well-being.
Fun activities and games for all ages.
Health and wellness booths with valuable information and resources.
Goodie bags for kids and adults.
Showcase of cutting-edge vision correction: Featuring the latest in No-Blade Cataract Surgery and next-generation CLEAR shortsightedness correction.
“Healthy vision is vital for a fulfilling life,” said Ms. Chloe Wong, Chief Marketing of VISTA.” This Eye Carnival celebrates family and promotes proactive eye care. We empower people to protect their sight and cherish the moments that matter most.”
A Commitment to Community and Sustainability
The Eye Carnival is part of VISTA’s ongoing community service initiatives. Our dedication to social and environmental responsibility has been recognized with many prestigious awards, including the Star ESG Positive Impact Awards 2022 and B Corp accreditation. B Corp are for-profit companies that meet rigorous social and environmental performance standards, accountability, and transparency. This accreditation aligns with VISTA’s mission to make a positive impact beyond just providing superior eye care.
This Carnival is proudly supported by many world-renowned ophthalmic partners, including Ziemer Ophthalmology, Johnson & Johnson Vision, Staar Surgical, Transmedic, Abbvie, and more.
“Our team has been working hard for the past few months to prepare for this exciting Eye Carnival,” said Mr. Marcus Teoh, Carnival Team Leader at VISTA. “We are so excited and can’t wait to welcome families and offer a fun-filled experience that combines eye screenings, engaging activities, and valuable information on eye health. We’re confident there will be something for everyone to enjoy!”
About VISTA Eye Specialist:
Founded in 1999, VISTA Eye Specialist is committed to providing superior eye care. It specializes in cataract and vision correction surgery across 17 centres nationwide. Our award-winning service and commitment to community initiatives demonstrate our dedication to changing lives through better vision, including winning the latest prestigious Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand Awards 2024.
TOKYO, May 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Society for Information Display (SID), the world’s largest electronic display society, has awarded Cellid, the “Display Component of the Year” award for their Plastic AR Waveguide “Plastic G1”. This title is being awarded in recognition of the innovative and outstanding product design, and its great impact on the market in 2023.
The Plastic Waveguide “Plastic G1” is not just lightweight. With vivid colors and clear visuals – this plastic waveguide enables a new generation of AR glasses.
“We are honored to receive the prestigious 2024 Display Component of the Year Award.” noted Ken Shiraga, CEO of Cellid. “This award is not only a tribute to Cellid’s passion for technology, but also a recognition of our uncompromising commitment to developing innovative products that are always ahead of the curve. Our team will continue to work together to develop and be recognized as an innovative partner in the AR industry.”
“I am continually inspired by the transformative power our honorees wield in shaping the future of display technology,” says SID President Achin Bhowmik. “This year’s winners demonstrate how rich and diverse the display field has become. The Display Industry Awards not only celebrate innovation and excellence but serve as a beacon for collaboration and progress within our evolving industry.”
“Pixelligent and Cellid both have created critical components to enable more efficient and realistic optical solutions for this rapidly growing space.” – Stephen Atwood, DIA committee lead.
About the “Display Industry Award”
This award is granted to a novel component that has significantly enhanced a display’s performance. A component is sold as a separate part destined to be incorporated into a display; it also may include display-enhancing materials or parts fabricated with new processes or display test equipment.
About Cellid
Cellid’s core business is development of AR glass display modules, mainly waveguides and spatial recognition engines for next-generation devices. Cellid’s unique optical simulation technology and proprietary production technology have enabled the development of display modules that are as thin and light as ordinary eyeglass lenses, with clear images and one of the world’s largest field of view for waveguides. Cellid also develops and provides industry-specific solutions using spatial recognition software technologies such as Cellid SLAM. By combining AR display hardware technology and real-world spatial recognition software technology, we are accelerating “Blending the Physical and Digital Worlds,” and leading the realization of extraordinary information tools that are more accessible and convenient for humans.
Cellid Inc.
Location: Minato Ku, Tokyo, Japan Representative Director: Satoshi Shiraga Founded: October 2016 Business details: Development and sales of spatial recognition engines and displays for AR glasses
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Dubai-based carrier Emirates airline on Monday reported record annual profit of 17.2 billion dirhams ($4.7 billion) for the 2023-2024 financial year, up 63% from the year prior.
The flag carrying airline of the UAE’s glitzy commercial capital has enjoyed a consistently recovering travel sector, expanding its route network to meet booming demand.
The latest figures from world’s largest long-haul airline were the best in its history and were “driven by the voracious appetite for travel across customer segments,” the Emirates Group said in a statement.
Emirates carried 51.9 million passengers in the 2023-24 financial year, a 19% increase from the year prior, with reported seat capacity up by 21%.
Revenue for the airline rose 13% to 121.2 billion dirhams and airline capacity increased by 20%, “closing [the] gap to pre-pandemic levels,” the statement said.
“Throughout the year, we saw high demand for air transport and travel related services around the world, and because we were able to move quickly to deliver what customers want, we achieved tremendous results,” said Emirates chairman and and chief executive Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
“We are reaping the benefit of years of non-stop investments in our products and services, in building strong partnerships, and in the capabilities of our talented people.”
Emirates Group, which comprises the airline and airline services and ground handling company dnata, saw its own best-ever financial performance with a record profit of 18.7 billion dirhams, a 71% jump from the previous year.
It also ended the financial year with its highest-ever cash balance of 47.1 billion dirhams, and declared a 4 billion dirham dividend for its owner, the Investment Corporation of Dubai.
Dubai’s leadership meanwhile recently approved a multi-billion dollar plan to build a new passenger terminal at the emirate’s Al Maktoum International Airport, which will make it five times bigger than Dubai’s main international airport in terms of size — and the biggest in the world.
Wake up and smell the savings! It’s a new day with new ways to save — if you know where to look. We’ve done the legwork and found the best deals worth shopping now. Today you can score a Saker Mini Chainsaw to clean up your yard for just $40 (was $80) and Apple Airpods for a low $80! (Either would make a stellar Father’s Day gift.) We’re also eyeing swoon-worthy picks such as Le Creuset cookware for a sweet $150 off and a pebbled leather Coach bag that’s $230 off. And don’t miss the $15 rain shower head upgrade and $25 Crocs. Keep scrolling and get your spring shopping on.
Amazon
Prune branches and cut wood like a pro with this compact, easy-to-handle electric chain saw, currently half off for Prime members. Shoppers say it’s a little beast that’s capable of ultra-smooth cuts. This No. 1 bestseller comes with a 20-volt rechargeable lithium battery for cord-free convenience.
Over 8,000 five-star fans are thrilled. “Excellent tool for small to medium tree and shrub trimming!” raved one. “The Saker Mini Chainsaw exceeded my expectations. … It carves through branches like a full-size chain saw. I was able to cut down branches in excess of 3 inches thick in seconds, saving hours of time in getting our yard ready for spring and summer. I bought the extra battery pack thinking I would need it, and I didn’t, as the battery life is very impressive. “
“Love this tool,” wrote another. “My arthritis makes it hard to use pruning shears or … manual shears for trimming trees. Thanks to this wonderful tool, I can now do it myself again! So powerful!”
This beauty of a bag does double duty. With a few flicks of the thumb, it switches from a shoulder bag to a crossbody (two detachable straps included). And like a chic haircut, it can lean luxe or hip ‘n’ casual thanks to the rich, pebbled leather body and simple lines. The medium size is just right for daily use and can hold all your essentials (even an iPad 11 Pro).
One fan nearly bought a smaller purse when this “gorgeous” option caught their eye: “Spacious, dual straps, inside pockets and the gold hardware puts it over the top! 10/10 recommend!”
Suck the gunk out of the air before you breathe it with this majorly marked-down, large-capacity purifier — now at the lowest price on record. The 1,076-square-foot capacity machine features double inlets (front and rear) to catch pollen, dust, dander, odors and more. There are four speeds and three timer settings.
One “very happy” shopper wrote: “My family and I live in Louisville, Kentucky, a city ranked as one of the worst to live in for allergy sufferers. We have ours set to automatically monitor the air and change fan speed when needed. … Most of the time we can’t hear it running, but if we burn something on the stove, open windows or do anything that puts contaminants in the air, the the fan will speed up and clean the air quickly.”
Le Creuset — the coveted French cookware brand known for durability, quality and incredible beauty — is offering a rare price break. It’s knocked a whopping $150 off its ever-popular round wide oven. This dynamo is similar to a Dutch oven, but wider and shallower and can braise, bake, roast, fry, steam and serve. That means you can prepare and present dishes such as fried fish, braised short ribs, roasted chicken with vegetables, Grandma’s famous chili and more in this gorgeous piece. The enameled cast iron pot is oven- and dishwasher-safe and suitable for all cooktops, even induction. There are still 16 wonderful colors on sale, including a new peach hue (pictured), but they are selling out fast.
One fan who uses it “almost every day” shared: “Have made bread, an entire chicken, all kinds of sauces, one-pot dishes veggie and meat dishes. I just love the size as it gives you space to brown the meat and soften the veggies. Have not had one bad cooking experience with it, even made perfect fries with it!”
Want to get that sun-kissed glow without getting bitten? This two-pack of self-tanning body butter (that’s $100 less than it would be sold separately) promises to deliver with no orange surprises in three simple steps. Exfoliate first, apply lotion, wash hands. The coconut, eucalyptus and peppermint oils hydrate the skin as the tan activators get to work. Formulated for all skin tones, this lotion is buildable and can last up to a week.
One pleased user wrote, “I have porcelain skin and one use was a perfect base tan for me. I [exfoliated] prior to application and had no streaks. It has a nice smell and it did not transfer onto my sheets or PJs. It takes several hours to develop. This is much easier than the tanning foam and mitt.”
Rare deal alert: second-generation Apple AirPods are down to just $80 — that’s on par with the lowest price ever! If you haven’t yet made the switch to wireless earbuds, here’s your chance to do it right for way less. Some 538,800 five-star fans swear by these buds for stellar sound, fit and durability, and they last up to five hours on a single charge. The charging case slips easily into your pocket so you can stay juiced up all day long. And if you ever have a question for Siri, she’s just one “Hey Siri” away. The AirPod Pros (also on sale) offer a few extra features, but many fans prefer this more affordable version.
This longtime fan tried more expensive models but ultimately returned to their best buds: “Great sound quality, lots of bass and bold sound. They fit nicely in my ears and don’t fall out. The price is reasonable too, half the price of AirPods Pro and PowerBeats Pro.”
“The best option for Apple users,” added another. “I’ve tried cheaper options, I’ve tried more expensive headsets. Nothing beats the convenience of using Apple AirPods with my Apple products. When I want to switch from device to device, boom … it happens. Every alternative gave me troubles. … These AirPods are also the most comfortable option I’ve tried. They are what my ears crave the most.”
PSA: We’ve spotted on-sale Crocs in the wild for a wild half off. The bestsellers are down to $25 (from $50). Fans rely on the waterproof, lightweight, easy-to-wear slip-ons for gardening, long work days, recovery and more.
“They are the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn,” raved one five-star reviewer. “I don’t get sore legs like I used to after walking.”
Added another: “There are little bumps on the insoles too, so it feels like my feet are getting a little massage every time I put them on. I also really like that I don’t have to worry about where I’m going or what I’m doing while wearing these, since they’re easily rinsed and cleaned.”
Spills, pet accidents and other mishaps are no biggie with a Bissell, but these handy gizmos can be pricey. Not today: $99. Fans praise the bestseller for its cleaning prowess on rugs, stairs, upholstery, car interiors and more. Plus it weighs under 10 pounds! One handheld stain removal tool and a pet stain remover is included.
“With two kids that constantly spill drinks, slime, yogurt, etc., and also pets in the home, I am beyond amazed at how good my couches look again!” shared one fan.
“Easy cleanup for pet accidents,” wrote another. “This machine is a lot easier to use rather than pulling out the big steamer vacuum cleaner. … This is simple: Pick up, add water and cleaner and do what you need to, and empty and put back in the closet.”
Upgrade your bathroom this spring without shelling out for a reno with this high-pressure rain shower head — just $14 for Prime members (that’s nearly 55% off). This top-seller with 16,200+ five-star ratings features 66 little nozzles to deliver high pressure without water waste. There are five modes to choose between, including mist, rain and massage.
“What an amazing difference!” wrote one five-star fan. “The pressure is fantastic and the install was super easy. It is also very easy to change settings while showering. No work was needed to the head prior to install — I installed it as is. (Takes five minutes.) It comes with everything you need to install it: Teflon pipe tap, wrench, extra filter screen and even two shower caps!”
Coffee snobs, listen up: Nespresso machines are finally on sale! Our editor’s pick — the VertuoPlus — is down to just $119 (was $170). This upscale pod-style machine finishes off each espresso and coffee with smooth crema. A starter set of rich Nespresso coffee capsules is included.
One self-described “coffee fanatic” said: “Starbucks line no more. This machine is a game changer! The coffee is so strong and rich, coffee shop-quality for sure.”
“Once you’ve tried a Nespresso, you’ll never go back,” agreed another convert. “I have had drip coffeemakers and Keurig, and both were okay (Keurig better), but once I tried coffee from a Nespresso, I did not enjoy any other! There is a nice foam on top even without the frother, and the coffee tastes perfect. The variety pack received with the machine is perfect to decide which are your favorites.”
SHENZHEN, China, May 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On May 10, 2024, the BGI-Heilongjiang Omics Health Axis Intelligent Laboratory (BGI-HL OHA Intelligent Laboratory) was inaugurated in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, China, marking a significant advance in the province’s efforts to address public health challenges. Utilizing the ‘13311i GigaLab’ technological framework, this facility supports vital life and health science research, enhancing the region’s capacity to produce innovative health solutions.
BGI-HL OHA Intelligent Laboratory in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China
The ‘13311i’ framework is at the forefront of proactive health management, integrating whole genome sequencing with analyses of blood, urine, and fecal samples and sophisticated imaging techniques such as CT, ultrasound, and MRI. With detailed health and disease risk profiles, it sets the stage for breakthroughs in early detection and personalized treatment, critical tenets of precision medicine.
The opening ceremony featured BGI Group CEO and BGI Genomics Vice Chairman Yin Ye, BGI Genomics Vice President Li Zhiping, and BGI Genomics Northeast Region General Manager Su Hang, along with Heilongjiang Longwei Precision Medicine Laboratory Chairman Jia Lipeng.
Colorectal cancer, a focal point of the Lab’s research, is ranked as the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. According to the “Global Cancer Statistics 2020” report by the World Health Organization, there were over 1.9 million new cases of CRC and nearly 930,000 deaths in 2020. The Lab’s initiatives address this significant health burden with the world’s highest throughput sequencer, DNBSEQ-T20×2, enhancing the efficiency and quality of diagnostics.
The laboratory’s first significant initiative involves assessing colorectal cancer risks for nearly 800,000 eligible for screening (45-64-year-old residents), employing gene methylation technology for early detection and preventive care. This large-scale public health effort exemplifies the Lab’s commitment to precision medicine, tailored to combat public health issues more effectively.
Yin Ye remarked, “By integrating our latest technologies, we are poised to make significant contributions to global public health, particularly in managing chronic diseases and shaping future medical practices.”
The BGI-HL OHA Intelligent Laboratory also spearheads the ‘13311i’ project to develop a comprehensive technical system for disease prevention and health management across the entire population and lifecycle. This project utilizes a genomics-based approach and integrates various data forms, from high-resolution imaging to real-time physiological data collected through wearable devices, ensuring a holistic view of health risks and outcomes.
Looking ahead, this Lab plans to broaden its impact through extensive genomic research projects that will benefit public health, precision medicine, and even modern agriculture. This facility is committed to advancing Heilongjiang’s digital and biotech ecosystem and contributing to public health improvements by applying the latest life science technologies.
A parasite expert has warned Australian dog owners to be on the lookout for a potentially harmful infection that can impact the health of dogs and humans.
Recent warm and wet weather across the country poses an increased risk of exposure to Toxocara roundworms, according to University of Melbourne parasitologist Dr Vito Colella.
This parasitic roundworm can cause toxocariasis, a usually mild but chronic disease that results in a range of health issues.
Toxocara roundworms are found in the small intestines of dogs and cats, with the eggs from the female parasites passing through the animals and into the environment via faeces.
This is particularly problematic for dogs who often pass faeces in public places, such as parks, hence spreading the roundworms to other dogs as well as humans.
Both parties can become infected by eating the soil that has been contaminated with the eggs.
The eggs are microscopic, Colella said, so even a “minimal amount of fecal material that is heavily contaminated” is enough to cause an infection.
In dogs the infection is usually mild and symptoms include diarrhoea, vomiting, failure to gain weight and a swollen belly.
“The majority of dogs develop something … called pot-bellied syndrome,” Colella said.
“The belly, especially in puppies, is dilated, it’s particularly swollen.
“The Toxocara parasites … can take up the nutrients that should have gone to the animal.”
Intestinal obstruction can also sometimes occur, Colella said.
Toxocara roundworms under a microscope. Credit: Getty Images
This can lead to perforation of the small intestine (a hole that develops in the wall of the organ), releasing the roundworms into the abdominal cavity.
Anaphylaxis can then occur, resulting in the death.
In humans, children are more commonly affected by the disease than adults simply due to the likelihood of them playing with, and picking up, soil.
“They could get infected from the environment where the dogs live, especially public parks or if they are in the garden, if the faeces are not picked up in a short time and disposed of properly,” Colella said.
A range of health issues can occur if a human becomes infected with Toxocara roundworms.
It can cause abnormal blood test results, enlargement of the liver, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pains, abdominal pain and rashes.
These symptoms occur because the worm larvae migrates through the body, causing tissue damage.
If the larvae migrate to the eye for example, permanent vision loss can occur.
It is extremely rare for toxocariasis to cause severe disease or death.
“There are cases in which the parasites cause brain and heart dysfunction that have led to death, but the mortality rate of this infection is very, very low,” Colella said.
A cross-section of Toxocara larvae in liver tissue. Credit: Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
The impact of warm and wet weather
This year’s winter in Australia is expected to be warmer than usual, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, posing ideal conditions for Toxocara parasites.
The parasite’s larval eggs will develop into the infectious stage during humid weather conditions, with the optimal temperature about 20C.
Anything below 10C or above 37C will stop the larval eggs from reaching this stage.
Wet weather also plays a part in spreading contaminated soil.
“If faeces are left outside in the park or in the garden for a couple of days, and then it rains, there will be a sort of wash effect on the faeces that means that the eggs then can travel,” Colella said.
Treatment
Both dogs and humans can be treated fairly easily for Toxocara roundworms through the use of different drugs.
Most humans recover without specific treatment.
Prevention
To protect both animals and humans, Colella said it was important for dog owners to stay on top of their pet’s health.
This includes doing simple things such as deworming their dogs monthly, annually treating them for external parasites and going for regular check-ups with the vet.
Dog owners should pick up their pet’s faeces as quickly as possible, and ensure they dispose of it correctly.
Colella said they should also wash their hands after interacting with soil or objects that could potentially be contaminated.
“This is important for all dog owners, but particularly so for those with young children who we know are at greatest risk,” he said.
Most of us are trying to make some improvements in our lives right now. Sometimes the littlest changes make the biggest impact. And when it comes to tidying up a closet or drawers, there’s a simple gadget that can streamline your laundry process while straightening your clothes and putting them in perfect order: the BoxLegend T-shirt Folding Board and it’s just $11 at Amazon.
BoxLegend
Designed with neatness in mind, this problem-solving gadget guides you into folding your T-shirts into perfect rectangles to save time and space — all while keeping your drawers and closets tidy.
The BoxLegend T-shirt Folding Board is one of those products that is so uncomplicated that you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it yourself. It’s made up of six plastic panels that are held together with hinges. All you do is lay your shirt or sweater on it flat and then fold the panels over. The results are clothes folded into perfect rectangles. When your clothes are all folded uniformly, they stack better and fit neatly in drawers.
For people who love a well-organized drawer but don’t like to fold laundry, this gizmo is a dream. It’s efficiency and organization at its best — even one of TV’s most beloved and persnickety characters of all time uses one and makes it look so easy. We’re talking about The Big Bang Theory‘s Sheldon Cooper, of course. With a flip and a clap, a t-shirt is folded in a snap!
This problem-solving gadget takes the hassle out of getting your drawers and closets organized.(Amazon)
What reviewers say:
This genius little gadget has organized the laundry for more than 3,000 rave reviewers.
“This is one of the best things I have ever bought!” shared an excited shopper who says it makes doing laundry fun. “Apart from the fun part, it folds all the shirts and sweaters the same width and length so now when I put them in my dressing room they look really nice, neat and the same size. It is plastic that has to open and close so don’t expect it to be heavy or thick.”
“I saw something like this in an infomercial,” a rave reviewer wrote. “I figured, ‘Why not?’ What I didn’t expect was how well I enjoyed folding my clothes and it helps me save room. I have a drawer with one side has socks and underpants and the other for my undershirts. This thing works well for me.”
“I made a concerted effort to organize more areas of my life and figure out more space-saving options,” a five-star fan wrote. “With this, I don’t have to hang everything up in the closet and use the space-saving skills while traveling as well. I knew these existed and was shocked it took me this long to grab one. Very happy and would buy it again if it broke.”
“I saw Sheldon on Big Bang use this product so I ordered one and love it!” gushed a five-star fan. ” My husband’s T-shirts are so neat and organized now.”
BoxLegend
For people who love to be neat, you’ll be happy to know this gadget is Sheldon Cooper-approved.
