Health fact-checks
Infact's fact-checks in Health, newest first. Each links to a full verdict with a 0–100 accuracy score and cited evidence.
- 87 The text suggests that green-lipped mussel is beneficial for dogs' joints.
- 82 France is experiencing a decline in human development indicators, including infant mortality, education quality, mental health, and life expectancy. Economic issues include labor productivity, deindustrialization, research investment, public debt, and purchasing power. Trust in government and regional wealth disparities are also declining.
- 52 In Germany, cigarette prices are expected to rise to almost 12 euros by 2030 due to budget deficits and public health concerns. The tax on self-rolling tobacco will also increase.
- 88 A knocked-out tooth can potentially reattach if placed back in its socket immediately.
- 91 German youth drug-related deaths are rising, with significant increases in deaths under 30. The UN reports a global rise in synthetic drugs.
- 87 Regular work helps to relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
- 84 Mitch McConnell provided an update on his health after being hospitalized due to a fall, stating he did not suffer a heart attack or stroke but had pneumonia. He is now in rehabilitation and plans to retire from the Senate in January.
- 92 Mitch McConnell will not return to the Senate yet due to a fall and pneumonia. He was briefly unconscious but did not suffer major injuries. Elaine Chao met a Chinese official shortly after his hospitalization.
- 94 Regina Taylor was named the inaugural Huppert Community Health Scholar in Family Medicine.
- 85 Sen. Mitch McConnell was briefly unconscious after a fall, had pneumonia, has been hospitalized since June 14, and plans to retire in January.
- 86 The website reports on Mitch McConnell's absence from the Senate, Lindsey Graham's cause of death, Ukraine's prime minister stepping down, and Russia seeking tech from Japan for the Ukraine war.
- 84 A bull bison in Yellowstone National Park tossed a tourist 8ft into the air, resulting in serious injury. The incident was captured on video and described by a photographer as the bison being agitated and charging. This was the second bison-on-human incident in 2026.
- 91 Graham died of an aortic tear according to preliminary findings.
- 92 The website discusses an Indiana food program that reduces hospitalizations and hunger, highlighting its impact on SNAP referrals, patient support, and medical outcomes.
- 92 The website reports on various topics including the likely cause of Lindsey Graham's death, international rulings on the South China Sea, a penalty for the Keystone Pipeline, McConnell's hospitalization, and Volkswagen's cost-cutting measures.
- 91 Europe experienced over 10,000 excess deaths during a late-June heatwave, with most victims being elderly. The heatwave's severity is attributed to climate change, and France and Belgium reported very high excess mortality.
- 82 The website discusses evidence that healthy lifestyle changes can improve brain health in older adults at risk of dementia, with outdoor exercise being a popular recommendation.
- 47 The text claims that drinking a glass of water at night helps prevent stroke and heart attack.
- 86 Jerusalem syndrome is a mental psychosis where a person becomes psychotic after arriving in Jerusalem.
- 79 The video discusses the 2026 National Health Care Fraud takedown, highlighting it as the largest effort in history against health care fraud, involving $6.5 billion in false claims and numerous defendants across the United States.
- 74 The text states that as of July 1, 2025, the CDC/FoodNet reduced surveillance of certain food-related infections and made reporting optional.
- 46 Regular breast massage may help prevent cancer and stimulate cell reproduction and normal growth.
- 84 The text states that the fastest recorded heartbeat in a human was 600 beats per minute.
- 92 Pica is the desire to eat inedible things.
- 91 In Germany, 5,100 deaths may be linked to summer heat, with most occurring in June. Those over 85 were most affected. June 22–28 was the hottest week since 1992. In 2018, 8,400 heat-related deaths were recorded.
- 76 The website reports a lawsuit against Costco for selling Orgain protein powder contaminated with toxic heavy metals, despite marketing it as safe and nutritious.
- 64 The website reports a rise in Cyclospora cases in Georgia and nationwide, with health officials warning of seasonal risks and linking outbreaks to fresh produce.
- 95 The website discusses the increase in cyclosporiasis cases in Michigan and other states, the challenges in tracing the source of the outbreaks, and the role of federal agencies in investigating the cases.
- 78 The website discusses Italy's plans to expand digital health initiatives, a $2M AI deal by Beamtree for Saudi hospitals, FDA clearance for a remote monitoring system, and Lunit's role in cancer screening at a Saudi hospital.
- 89 Costco is accused of selling protein powder contaminated with heavy metals like lead and arsenic, with claims of consumer protection law violations in six states.
- 92 Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record, with significant heatwaves and excess deaths reported.
- 65 A measles case has been confirmed in a vaccinated Polk County resident who recently traveled internationally. 93% of measles cases occur in unvaccinated individuals. Measles can remain airborne for up to two hours.
- 90 A bite from the Brazilian wandering spider can cause a prolonged male erection.
- 81 Oribe's Serene Scalp Densifying Shampoo has been recalled due to bacterial concerns, specifically Pluralibacter gergoviae, which poses little risk to healthy individuals but may affect those with weakened immune systems.
- 70 The website discusses the mental health services provided by McChord Clinic to support Airmen, including details about the clinic's staffing, budget, and appointment offerings.
- 92 The website reports that the Ebola death toll in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has surpassed 500, with at least 506 deaths and 1,561 confirmed cases. The outbreak is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is no vaccine or treatment. A clinical trial for two treatments has begun.
- 92 The website reports a cluster of Legionnaires' disease in NYC's Upper East Side with 23 cases, 17 hospitalizations, and no deaths. The likely source is a cooling tower. A similar outbreak in Harlem last year resulted in seven deaths and 114 illnesses.
- 72 San Diego County health officials confirmed the first locally acquired case of Chagas disease, which is more common in rural Latin America. The disease can cause serious complications, and the county made it reportable in 2024 to raise awareness.
- 94 Oribe shampoo was recalled due to the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae bacteria, affecting certain lots sold in the U.S. and Canada.
- 79 Shampoo sold nationwide by a Cincinnati-based company was recalled due to potential contamination with Pluralibacter gergoviae. The bacteria poses little risk to healthy individuals but may affect those with weakened immune systems. Microsoft plans to cut 4,800 jobs worldwide.
- 62 The text discusses abuse of power in the German healthcare system, with almost half of doctors facing such abuse, including sexual harassment and intimidation. It highlights that male executives are often harassed and that these issues are suppressed due to fear of consequences.
- 45 Denis Vasurin appears to be 14 years old but is actually 32 due to a genetic malfunction that stopped his aging in his teens. He is otherwise healthy.
- 61 The text claims that increased sunlight exposure raises testosterone levels in men.
- 46 The text suggests that if you stop feeling thirsty, you need to drink water urgently, and that dehydration causes the thirst mechanism to shut down.
- 91 Virginia health officials warn that heat is causing medical issues for hundreds.
- 56 RFK Jr. attempted to transform the CDC and take over the vaccine panel, described as 'pure chaos' by a former official.
- 60 Cheap sunglasses may not block UV rays, potentially causing eye damage.
- 72 Wearing skinny jeans can cause nerve damage in your legs, known as 'tingling thigh syndrome.'
- 50 25% of women have one breast larger than the other by at least one cup size.
- 73 Virtua Health uses AI to improve patient care, achieving significant improvements in sepsis identification, heart failure detection, and reducing patient stays.
- 72 The website discusses an outbreak of cyclosporiasis in Michigan, with over 225 cases confirmed. The source of the outbreak is unknown, and cyclosporiasis is treatable with antibiotics. The FDA estimates 48 million food-borne illness cases annually in the U.S., leading to 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths.
- 71 The website discusses the severe impact of brain drain on Yemen's healthcare system, highlighting shortages of medical staff, lack of access to care, and the recruitment of foreign doctors.
- 68 The website discusses the re-funding of Planned Parenthood through Medicaid, the closure of clinics, and the political reactions from conservative groups.
- 84 The website discusses Uganda's efforts to manage an Ebola outbreak, highlighting the challenges of stigma and misinformation, and the role of health workers in community reintegration.
- 72 The website reports on a diarrhea-causing parasite, Cyclospora, contaminating raw produce and causing illness across several US states, with 145 cases reported nationwide and significant increases in Michigan and New York. No single multistate outbreak has been identified.
- 63 Veronica Seider reportedly had exceptional visual acuity, allowing her to identify people over a mile away, and earned a Guinness World Record for smallest visible object.
- 46 Staring at a wall for 10 minutes is claimed to improve productivity and short attention span.
- 46 Crushed cockroaches may reduce pain when applied to wounds.
- 77 In 2001, Russia had more abortions than live births, with 2.11 million abortions compared to 1.31 million live births.
- 53 Sober Sue, a performer in the early 1900s, never laughed despite a $1,000 challenge due to facial paralysis.
- 54 Having sons may make a mother's age faster, according to a study.
- 80 Guidelines for handling a fallen permanent tooth include acting within 30 minutes, holding it by the white part, rinsing with milk, attempting to reposition it, and visiting a dentist immediately.
- 50 The text claims that legumes stimulate substances in the body that enhance brain impulses, potentially increasing intelligence.
- 76 The website reports the launch of Quibim's QP-Breast MRI tool in Europe and the UK, designed to detect breast cancer more efficiently. It highlights the prevalence of breast cancer, the regulatory compliance of the tool, and the operational requirements of MRI scanners.
- 78 Wayne County health officials are tracking 27 potential cyclosporiasis cases amid a growing outbreak in Michigan, which has affected over 300 people statewide. The illness is caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, often linked to contaminated fresh produce.
- 61 The text discusses opposition from over 300 beverage companies against a proposed sugar tax in Germany, citing concerns over increased business and consumer costs. The government plans to introduce a levy on sweetened beverages in 2028 as part of its financial plans, aiming to reduce sugar consumption. Health links to sugary foods and industry adjustments in product formulations are noted.
- 42 Buckwheat may make people smarter by reducing cholesterol levels by 10%, preventing vascular dementia, and improving brain blood flow.
- 72 The text states that eating quickly prevents your body from realizing when it's full, leading to overeating.
- 75 From 1898 to 1910, children's cough medicine was made from heroin.
- 31 Bananas are said to be the only fruit that even babies are not allergic to.
- 75 A parasite causing watery diarrhea is spreading across the U.S., infecting over 140 people, with the largest concentration in New York. The CDC reports 145 cases between May 1 and June 16, with 20 hospitalizations. The infections are spread across 17 states.
- 67 The website reports confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis in Lucas County, Ohio, linked to fresh produce, with an increase in cases since June 1. The illness is common in developing countries and symptoms develop within two to 14 days.
- 50 The text states that red wine was used in ancient times for cleaning teeth and gums.
- 50 The text discusses misconceptions about alcohol's effect on body temperature, stating alcohol is believed to raise it but actually lowers it.
- 56 The number of deaths from the heat in France has reached one thousand, mainly affecting those 65 years and older, with most deaths occurring in the region of Ile-de-France. The heat has also impacted nuclear reactors in Hungary, Switzerland, and France, leading to reduced electricity production and increased electricity prices across Europe.
- 50 Pruno, also called prison wine or prison hooch, is an alcoholic drink made in prisons by fermenting sugary foods. It has varying alcohol levels and food safety risks, including botulism.
- 50 Musicomania is described as a condition where a person's passion for music hinders their ability to function.
- 70 Fatal familial insomnia is a rare and severe disease where a protein mutation in the brain prevents sleep, leading to death and body deterioration.
- 68 Discussion on the challenges of hate speech, freedom of expression, and their impact globally and in Georgia.
- 53 Germany faces potential record-breaking heatwaves up to 44°C, risking public health, especially in Berlin and Bavaria, with expected high UV radiation levels.
- 59 European trade unions demand mandatory hydration breaks at work due to heat risks similar to FIFA World Cup measures. The risk of death increases significantly with high temperatures. Germany expects high heat.
- 71 The text states that sleeping less than six hours a day increases the likelihood of mental problems.
- 74 Peeing in chlorine water can create chemicals that irritate eyes, causing them to sting in swimming pools.
- 68 Doctors in the United States injected a virus that could defeat a malignant tumor.
- 82 The text discusses the dangers of minerals like asbestos, cinnabar, galena, torbernite, orpiment, and hutchinsonite due to their toxic or radioactive properties.
- 40 The text suggests love is healthier than gym workouts, but combining both leads to great results.
- 68 Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital has been certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, which developed the program with the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The hospital joined Vanderbilt Health in 2021 and has received numerous accreditations.
- 72 The website reports a nationwide recall of blood pressure medication due to potential ineffectiveness, highlights a significant increase in high blood pressure rates among children over 20 years, and notes that more than 11,000 bottles of the medication have been recalled.
- 83 The website reports that over 11,000 bottles of chlorthalidone, a blood pressure medication, have been recalled due to dissolution issues that may affect effectiveness. The recall involves specific NDC codes and batch numbers, with an expiration date of April 2027.
- 82 The website reports a nationwide recall of over 11,000 bottles of Chlorthalidone blood pressure medication due to a manufacturing issue, initiated by Inventia Healthcare Limited. The recall affects bottles distributed by Rising Pharma Holdings Inc. due to dissolution failures.
- 88 The text states that the most expensive drug in the world costs $2.1 million per injection and that Zolgensma is a gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy.
- 67 The text claims that black chocolate promotes blood flow to important brain areas for 2-3 hours.
- 38 The text asserts that vaping nicotine is worse than smoking cigarettes.
- 21 The text suggests that nicotine-mimicking molecules could be effective as anti-inflammatory drugs for conditions like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
- 53 Nicotine is stated to potentially lessen symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
- 67 Nicotine may reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
- 84 The website discusses the renewal of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, efforts by Iran and the U.S. to negotiate a broader deal, President Trump's G7 appearance, and aid arriving in the Democratic Republic of Congo for the Ebola outbreak.
- 72 The website discusses recent scientific breakthroughs, including a preference in human turning direction, the creation of nuclear clocks, a brain implant for ALS communication, a meteorite impact discovery in Australia, and the identification of autism subtypes.
- 68 The website reports on beach closures in multiple U.S. states due to high bacteria levels, with specific mentions of Massachusetts and Washington state. It also highlights a report stating that 61% of U.S. beaches had potentially unsafe contamination levels in 2024.
- 33 In Malaysia, beer is believed to prevent infant illnesses, and newborns are often bathed in it.
