Rare surgery saves baby from serious bowel condition while still in womb

The historic Queen Emma Bridge in Willemstad, Curaçao, has been removed to undergo a major renovation project. The floating pontoon bridge, which connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts of the capital, is one of the island's most recognizable landmarks and a key pedestrian crossing over St. Anna Bay. The removal marks the beginning of a significant restoration effort aimed at preserving the 19th-century structure for future generations. During the renovation period, residents and visitors will need to rely on the nearby Queen Juliana Bridge or ferry services to cross between the two sides of Willemstad. The project underscores Curaçao's commitment to maintaining its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center, of which the bridge is a central feature. No official timeline for the completion of the renovation has been immediately reported, but the works are expected to cause notable disruption to daily foot traffic in the area.

A public debate has emerged in Curaçao over whether general practitioners should be required to make house calls whenever a patient requests one. Data shows that over the past 15 years, GPs on the island have been making house visits only half as often as they previously did. Increased workload and low reimbursement rates are cited as the primary reasons for the sharp decline in home visits. The issue raises broader concerns about healthcare accessibility, particularly for elderly, disabled, or seriously ill patients who may struggle to travel to a clinic. Critics argue that the reduction in house calls represents a deterioration in primary care quality, while doctors point to systemic pressures that make frequent home visits unsustainable. The discussion reflects a wider tension in Curaçao's healthcare system between patient needs and the practical constraints facing medical professionals.

Mattia Maestri, a 13-year-old Italian boy, has died after spending nine years in a coma following the consumption of contaminated raw milk cheese in 2015. He fell into the coma in 2017 as a result of complications from the tainted food product, and never regained consciousness. The case drew significant attention in Italy and sparked lengthy legal proceedings related to food safety and accountability. His death marks the tragic end of a years-long ordeal for his family, who had fought both medically and legally on his behalf. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the potential health risks associated with unpasteurized dairy products, particularly for young and vulnerable consumers.