Health Highlights: Dec. 14, 2016

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Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:

Ohio Governor Signs Bill Banning Abortions at 20 Weeks

Ohio Gov. John Kasich signed a bill on Tuesday that imposes a ban on abortions after 20 weeks. But, he vetoed the controversial “heartbeat bill,” which would have banned abortions at the first sign of a fetal heartbeat.

A fetal heartbeat can be detected as early as six weeks into pregnancy, which can often be before a woman knows she is pregnant.

Instead of facing costly legal challenges, Kasich, a Republican and an abortion-rights opponent, chose to sign off on the 20-week ban. It is similar to what 15 states enforce but has been blocked from enforcement in two other states, the Associated Press reported.

Since the election of Donald Trump as President, Republican lawmakers in numerous states — including Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri and Texas — have said they will push for new anti-abortion legislation, the wire service said.

And Republicans in Congress are expected to put forth legislation banning most abortions after 20 weeks and halting federal funding for Planned Parenthood as long as it performs abortions. Trump has pledged to support both measures, according to the AP.

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Products With Powdered Milk Recalled Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination

A wide range of products with powdered milk that may be contaminated with salmonella have been recalled, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says.

The companies and their recalled items include: Valley Milk Products — nonfat high heat milk powder and sweet cream buttermilk powder; Shearer’s Foods, LLC — kettle chips, potato chips, and nacho chips; Deep River Snacks — kettle chips; Boulder Brands, Inc. — macaroni and cheese; TreeHouse Foods, Inc. — macaroni and cheese; New Hope Mills — crepe mix; Fourth Street Barbecue Inc. — macaroni and cheese; Brand Castle, LLC — monkey bread mix.

Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever. Most people recover, but infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of serious complications from such infections, CNN reported.

To date, no illnesses associated with the recalled products have been reported.

Last week, possible salmonella contamination led Publix Super Markets to recall three of its waffle and pancake mixes sold at stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, CNN reported.

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