Health Highlights: Jan. 17, 2018

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

AIDS Activist Dr. Mathilde Krim Dies at 91

Dr. Mathilde Krim, an American geneticist and virologist who was a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, has died.

Krim, 91, died Monday at her home in Kings Point, N.Y. Her death was confirmed by Bennah Serfaty, a spokeswoman for amfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research, The New York Times reported.

Krim was the founding chairwoman of amfAR.

When the HIV/AIDS crisis struck in the early 1980s, Krim joined the struggle against the virus and championed the civil rights of patients. She became a leading voice against fears and prejudices that caused rejection and discrimination of people with HIV/AIDS, The Times reported.

Krim raised significant amounts of money to fund research and public education.

She received many awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the highest civilian honor in the U.S — in 2000, for her “extraordinary compassion and commitment.”

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Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Coconut Tree Brand Frozen Shredded Coconut

A salmonella outbreak that’s sickened 25 people in nine states has been linked to Coconut Tree Brand Frozen Shredded Coconut, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

The most recent illness began on Nov. 4, 2017. Six of the patients were hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

An investigation showed that some of the patients had Asian-style dessert drinks in the week before they became ill. Laboratory testing confirmed that one sample of frozen shredded coconut contained the salmonella strain responsible for the outbreak, the CDC said Tuesday.

On Jan. 3, Evershing International Trading Company recalled all Coconut Tree Brand frozen Shredded Coconut. The product was packaged in 16-ounce plastic bags. Consumers can return the product to the place of purchase for a refund.

Consumers with frozen shredded coconut who aren’t sure if it is the recalled product can ask at the store where they bought it, and restaurants and retailers can ask their supplier. If in doubt, throw frozen shredded coconut out, the CDC said.

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