.png)
Follow Us!
Public Health Chronicle
Latest public health news and updates of the world
Public Health News Snippets 17 - 22nd June, 2024
Contaminated water crisis: Three dead, 76 ill
The residents of the Phoop area in the Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh have asserted that three people have died because of the consumption of contaminated water.
Additionally, 76 individuals have also been ill due to the same reasons.
Piped water most likely became tainted when installing new electrical poles next to a nearby drain.
According to sources, the earthwork equipment probably damaged the residential water supply pipe, allowing drain water to leak and contaminate the water line.
The residents were the worst impacted, particularly in Wards Nos. 5, 6, and 7, where the tainted water was given on Monday.
The health department sent out a notice when the patient count rose.
According to the collector, patients have received ORS and any necessary medications, and they are monitoring the impacted wards.
Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi
Social trends
Source :
Published on :
June 22, 2024
Water contamination, Drinking water
Antimicrobial resistance: A global health threat
The study used the six-year data set (from Jan 2017 to Dec 2022) from the Indian Council of Medical Research Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (IAMRSN).
The results revealed a global health threat of escalating levels of antimicrobial resistance.
Associations between higher antibiotic resistance and lower Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) achievements were established.
The AMR trends in pathogen groups such as gram-negative, gram-positive organisms, Enterobacteriaceae were identified.
An AMR scorecard for targeted interventions based on demographics was proposed.
Cefotaxime resistance emerged as a potential early indicator for emerging carbapenem resistance, suggesting a novel surveillance marker; thus, ‘indicator antibiotics’ were introduced.
The following recommendations were made:
Implement proactive surveillance of AMR to align with WHO GLASS standards.
Vigilantly monitor escalating carbapenem resistance.
Tailor treatment guidelines based on demographics.
Develop targeted interventions using AMR scorecards.
Emphasize associations between AMR and SDG to help in policymaking.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Sivanthiga
Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia
Source :
Published on :
June 22, 2024
Antimicrobial Resistance, Sustainable development Goals, Research findings
TB-COVID co-infection: A global health challenge
A recent study highlights the critical health challenge posed by the co-infection of tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19, which has been associated with higher fatality rates and more severe health outcomes.
The study found TB-COVID co-infection prevalence rates of approximately 0.06% in South Africa and 0.02% in California, USA.
The pooled fatality rate among co-infected patients was 7.1%, and the mean fatality rate for those hospitalized was 11.4%.
Health professionals are raising concerns about the dual threat that COVID-19 co-infection and tuberculosis (TB) pose.
This study suggests that patients suffering from both TB and COVID-19 may experience worse health outcomes and an increased risk of death compared to those with either condition alone.
The study emphasizes the need for global collaboration to address the challenges of TB-COVID co-infection, especially in countries with limited medical resources.
Continued research is crucial to understand and address TB-COVID co-infection challenges, as it remains prevalent with fatality rates higher than COVID-19 alone.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Sathya
PLOS Journal
Source :
Published on :
June 22, 2024
Tuberculosis, Covid-19, Communicable diseases
Health Ministry's heat wave and fire safety meeting: States gear up for a sweltering summer
Dr. Atul Goel led a virtual meeting with States and UTs to assess heat waves and fire/electrical safety preparedness in healthcare facilities.
States were urged to ensure dedicated heat stroke facilities, ORS corners, and bolstered surveillance.
They were also tasked with enforcing critical fire and electrical safety measures in healthcare facilities.
IMD forecasted above-normal temperatures for June 2024, prompting proactive measures.
Directives issued include health system preparedness guidelines, public advisories, emergency cooling protocols, and autopsy guidelines.
States/UTs urged the implementation of heat action plans, enhanced surveillance, and staff training.
Detailed steps covering health facility resilience, fire safety, and mock drills were discussed.
States like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and others have initiated awareness campaigns, mock drills, and allocated resources for safety measures.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Prachi
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
June 22, 2024
Climate change, Heat wave
Scan and Share: Streamlining OPD registrations in India
ABHA's Scan and Share service, launched in October 2022 under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), streamlines patient registration.
Patients simply scan a QR code at OPD counters, automatically sharing their ABHA profile for registration.
The benefits of this Scan and Share service includes:
Eliminates long queues, which is especially helpful for vulnerable groups.
Faster and more efficient registration process.
Secure way to share patient information.
Over three crore OPD registrations have been completed using Scan and Share, now operational in over 5435 healthcare facilities across 35 states.
The ABDM Public Dashboard shows high usage in AIIMS Delhi, Bhopal, Raipur, and Bhubaneshwar.
Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Jammu & Kashmir are leading the way in adopting Scan and Share.
In the future, Scan and Share will be implemented at pharmacy counters and laboratories.
New services like "Scan and Send" (sharing health records) and "Scan and Pay" (making payments) are planned to streamline healthcare processes further.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Shayari
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
June 22, 2024
Digital Health, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
Suspected diphtheria outbreak claims lives in Odisha : Recent updates
A disease suspected to be diphtheria claimed five lives in a village located in the Rayagada district of Odisha as of June 14th.
The disease has currently affected 15 individuals, including elderly people, children, and adolescents.
The outbreak began a week ago, and the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Rayagada confirmed the deaths and reported that three other children are undergoing treatment at the district headquarters hospital.
Blood samples from the children showing symptoms have been sent to Bhubaneswar for testing to confirm the diagnosis.
A health team led by a child specialist visited the village on June 12th and found one adult, Dhamu Majhi, aged 61 years, with similar symptoms.
Poor connectivity and transport facilities in the village have added to the woes.
A team from WHO, the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC), and public health specialists are also investigating the cases, conducting surveys to determine the source and spread of the illness.
The immunization status of the dead children is not yet specified.
This year, in February, four people from the same district reportedly died due to an unidentified disease that also infected around 50 people in the village.
Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kashif
Social trends
Source :
Published on :
June 19, 2024
Disease outbreak, Diphtheria
Transferring supervision of Nutraceuticals: A critical analysis
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has established a panel to monitor nutraceuticals and subsequently transfer supervisory powers from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India(FSSAI) to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
This, in turn, shall place the nutraceuticals under the ambit of the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA).
Nutraceuticals are food products purported to provide additional health benefits and basic nutrition and are regulated under Section 22 of the FSSAI.
CODEX is the international guide for marketing supplements.
The present step by the government can act like a double-edged sword as it has both its advantages and disadvantages:
The advantages of this step includes:
Heightened scrutiny will reduce the malpractice of Counterfeit and Spurious Drugs.
Improved guidelines on consumption, thereby supporting the concept of Quaternary prevention.
The disadvantages include:
Increased Pricing
India’s nutraceutical market is booming, estimated at 4-5 billion USD.
An estimated 71% of Indian households proactively consume nutritional supplements.
Increased scrutiny and restricted access will subsequently affect the growing Nutraceutical Market in India.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Tanya
Social Trends
Source :
Published on :
June 19, 2024
FSSAI, CDSCO, Nutraceuticals, Food Supplements
Outbreak of Varicella among new arrivals in New York City: 873 cases reported since September 2022
Medical providers, shelters and residential facilities, and schools reported cases to DOHMH, with case findings indicating varicella through patient interviews, electronic laboratory reports, and syndromic surveillance of emergency department chief complaints and discharge diagnoses.
As of March 8, 2024, 873 outbreak cases had been identified, with the onset from September 2022 to March 6, 2024.
With 17.5% occurring among children aged <4 years, 53% in children aged 4-18 years, and 29% in adults aged >18 years.
The median age of hospitalized patients was 22 years, with 15 patients admitted for complications such as encephalitis, pneumonia, bacteremia, and secondary bacterial skin superinfection.
During the outbreak, DOHMH and other NYC Agencies provided vaccinations across multiple residential facilities, prioritizing children and adolescents without vaccination.
Even then, the outbreak is ongoing, with most cases occurring among children and adolescents, highlighting the need for high vaccination coverage for varicella.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar
Centre for Disease Control and Prevention
Source :
Published on :
June 19, 2024
Disease outbreak, International health, vaccination
UN celebrates World Oceans Day 2024 with call to "awaken new depths"
Recognizing the ocean's critical role as Earth's life support system and economic cornerstone, the UN emphasized its function as the planet's 50% oxygen producer, biodiversity hotspot, and vital protein source for over a billion people worldwide.
However, alarming statistics highlighted during the event, such as the depletion of 90% of big fish populations and the loss of 50% of coral reefs, underscored the dire need for conservation efforts.
The celebration brought together decision-makers, indigenous leaders, scientists, business executives, civil society, celebrities, and youth activists.
Their collective goal is to advocate for comprehensive measures beyond surface-level initiatives to safeguard ocean resources.
Organized by the UN's Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, in partnership with Oceanic Global, the event underscored the global movement's ambition to inspire broad-based action for sustainable ocean management.
World Oceans Day 2024 raised awareness of human impacts on marine ecosystems and galvanized global citizens to unite to protect the oceans for future generations.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Manjeet
UN News Section
Source :
Published on :
June 19, 2024
One Health, Sustainable development, Environment
Increasing global commitment towards respiratory health: Appointment of special envoy for chronic respiratory diseases
The World Health Organization (WHO) has appointed Mr. José Luis Castro as the WHO Director-General Special Envoy for Chronic Respiratory Diseases.
Chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), affect nearly half a billion people globally and are major causes of death and disability.
Mr. Castro, with his extensive experience in global health, aims to raise awareness, mobilize support, and implement solutions to improve respiratory health worldwide.
He will promote WHO’s CRD program, encourage integration of respiratory health into local policies, and enhance public engagement.
His role starts on September 1, 2024, highlighting WHO’s commitment to addressing respiratory health issues.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Manjeet
WHO News Section
Source :
Published on :
June 19, 2024
Global health, Noncommunicable diseases, Respiratory health
India’s progress towards bridging the gender gap: Report from the World Economic Forum
The Gender index measures women's contributions relative to men across four dimensions.
The global Gender Gap score 2024, a crucial measure of gender parity, ranges from 0 to 1, representing 0 to 100% attainment of gender parity.
The key findings related to India are as follows:
India ranked 129th globally, two notches down from the 2023 position.
India is 5th in Southern Asia with a score of 0.641, a decrease in the score by 0.002.
Economic Participation and Opportunity score is 0.398, an improvement from 36.7% in 2023.
India is still behind the global average, and it needs improvements in legislative roles, management, workforce participation, and technical jobs.
Economic parity is <30% in terms of estimated earned income.
Educational attainment score is 0.964, down from 1 in 2023;
High attainment in primary, secondary, and tertiary education exists, but the literacy rate is below the global average.
The political empowerment score is 0.251, which has slightly declined from the previous year.
Years of female or male heads of the states remain above the global average but low women participation in parliament, federal, and ministerial roles (6.9%).
Health and survival score is 0.951; healthy life expectancy is 1.002; and sex ratio at birth is 0.929.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala
World Economic Forum
Source :
Published on :
June 18, 2024
Inequities, Gender parity, Gender discrimination, Development
Harvard Chan School launches LGBTQ health center of excellence amidst pride month celebrations
On June 4, during Harvard Chan School's Pride Month celebration, the LGBTQ Health Center of Excellence was officially launched.
The LGBTQ Health Center of Excellence at Harvard, in partnership with the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, aims to address health disparities faced by LGBTQ individuals, such as higher rates of mental and physical illnesses.
The LGBTQ Health Center of Excellence, led by Brittany Charlton, aims to increase research funding, improve data collection, and train new researchers through scholarships and specialized courses.
This initiative is timely, given the surge in anti-LGBTQ legislation.
The center will also focus on disseminating research and promoting effective communication on LGBTQ health issues, leveraging community strengths to achieve its goals.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Gurumurthy
Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health
Source :
Published on :
June 18, 2024
LGBTQ, Equity, Non-discrimination
Effectiveness of the Monkeypox vaccine: Findings from a study
The JYNNEOS vaccine, a two-dose series designed to prevent smallpox and mpox, has demonstrated effectiveness in real-world applications, especially during the recent global mpox outbreak, which has primarily impacted MSM, transgender, and nonbinary individuals.
Despite most recipients receiving both doses in 2022, only 25% of the at-risk population is fully vaccinated.
A study examining mpox cases from May 2022 to May 2024 found that 75% occurred in unvaccinated individuals, while only 0.8% occurred in fully vaccinated persons.
Fully vaccinated people experienced fewer severe symptoms and had lower hospitalization rates than their unvaccinated counterparts.
Among fully vaccinated individuals, most cases appeared a median of 266 days after the second dose.
There was no significant difference in infection timing between those who received intradermal and subcutaneous doses.
Although breakthrough infections were noted, particularly in a 2023 cluster in Chicago, these were infrequent and less severe.
The CDC advocates for continued monitoring and vaccination, emphasizing that the two-dose regimen offers substantial protection and should be complemented with other preventive measures.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Gurumurthy
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Source :
Published on :
June 18, 2024
Vaccination, Infectious disease, Mpox
H5N2 bird flu claims first human life in Mexico: Reports from the World Health Organization
Avian influenza virus infection in humans ranges from mild upper respiratory tract infection to severe, potentially fatal illness.
The symptoms include conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal problems, encephalitis, and encephalopathy.
A 59-year-old resident of the State of Mexico died from bird flu, making it the first confirmed human case of the H5N2 variant.
The patient, who had chronic kidney disease and diabetes mellitus, passed away on April 24 after experiencing fever, shortness of breath, diarrhea, and nausea.
Despite no known exposure to poultry or animals, the patient had been bedridden for three weeks before developing acute symptoms and died the same day of hospitalization in Mexico City.
Authorities are monitoring farms near the patient’s home and have set up a wildlife monitoring system.
In the United States of America, the H5N1 bird flu variant spread is ongoing among wild birds and dairy cows.
There have been a few human cases, but there has been no human-to-human transmission.
Similarly, Australia reported its first human H5N1 case in May, and there are no signs of transmission.
Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kashif
WHO News Section
Source :
Published on :
June 18, 2024
Influenza, One-health, Outbreak
Is Xylitol associated with a higher risk of heart attack?
High levels of the sweetener xylitol may raise the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes and cause blood clots, according to a study published in the European Heart Journal.
The published paper presents a multifaceted study, starting with two observational cohort studies, followed by a human consumption experiment and laboratory tests.
It was found that xylitol increases thrombosis and platelet reactivity, which might impede blood flow and result in major health problems.
The study found that xylitol increases MACE risk by 57% in the third tertile compared to the first tertile [ HR: 1.57 (1.12–2.21)].
Excessive xylitol consumption is advised to be avoided, particularly in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.
Using natural products instead of artificial sweeteners, such as fennel seeds, might enhance wellbeing.
In the European Union (EU) and India, xylitol is permitted for usage as a food additive.
EU Authorities are evaluating its safety standards, considering these findings.
Content Editor: Dr. Shubham
European Heart Journal Article
Source :
Published on :
June 18, 2024
Noncommunicable diseases, Nutrition, Cardiovascular Diseases, Research Findings
The AusDiab Study: Unveiling the impact of vegetables and potatoes on Diabetes Type 2 risk
The AusDiab (Australian Diabetes, Obesity, and Lifestyle Study), conducted over 12 years, reveals a complex relationship between vegetable consumption and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk.
The research, which tracked the dietary habits of Australian adults, found that a higher intake of vegetables (recommended daily intake of at least 5 servings), particularly green leafy varieties, is associated with improved markers of T2D, such as lower fasting plasma glucose and better insulin sensitivity.
These vegetables, rich in essential nutrients, play a protective role against the onset of diabetes. Conversely, frequent consumption of potato fries and chips correlates with an increased 31% risk of poorer insulin sensitivity, a 25% lower acute insulin response, increased glucose tolerance, and T2D.
Vegetables, particularly cruciferous ones, were found to be linked to a 25% lower risk of developing T2D over the follow-up period. The study underscores the importance of incorporating a variety of vegetables into the diet for better health outcomes and suggests that diet plays a crucial role in managing and potentially reducing the risk of diabetes.
However, the study's limitations include recall bias, inaccuracies in dietary assessment, and the observational nature of the study.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Shubham
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.
Source :
Published on :
June 17, 2024
Diet, Diabetes Mellitus, Endocrinological disorders, Metabolic Disorders
Harnessing nuclear technology for global food safety: Insights from FAO
The Joint FAO/IAEA(Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations / International Atomic Energy Agency) Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture is organizing the International Symposium on Food Safety and Control.
It aims to highlight the role that nuclear techniques in improving agricultural productivity and food safety.
Over 400 national and international research institutes and experimental stations are involved in over 25 coordinated research initiatives that are annually coordinated and supported by the Joint FAO/IAEA Center.
The symposium, which highlights the enormous influence of nuclear technology on global food and agriculture, is a critical turning point in the continuing cooperation between FAO and IAEA.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Prayag
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Source :
Published on :
June 17, 2024
Food Safety
CDC fights Tobacco disparities through NTCP
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National and State Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) aims to reduce tobacco-related diseases and deaths through comprehensive tobacco control programs.
Despite a decline in overall tobacco use, significant disparities remain among various U.S. populations, prompting targeted interventions at multiple levels..
The program provides technical assistance and funding to states and territories, supporting comprehensive tobacco control initiatives and quitline services.
Recipients of the NTCP funds must implement evidence-based policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) strategies.
The four main goals are to prevent youth initiation of commercial tobacco products, promote quitting among all ages, eliminate secondhand smoke exposure, and advance health equity by addressing tobacco-related disparities.
Grounded in CDC’s Best Practices, core components include state and community interventions, mass-reach health communication, tobacco dependence treatment, surveillance and evaluation, infrastructure support, and enhanced quitline systems.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Source :
Published on :
June 17, 2024
Tobacco control, International Health News
Liquid Nitrogen use prohibited in restaurants
The Food and Safety Department of the Delhi government may soon take action against outlets that are unlawfully utilizing "liquid nitrogen," as there have been a few reports of the chemical being consumed and causing injuries in eateries in other areas of the country.
Officials claim that restaurants frequently utilize liquid nitrogen to give food products a smokey appearance, occasionally injuring customers in the process. This stuff is great for quickly chilling ice cream, mocktails, cocktails, and baked goods.
Various such incidents have recently been reported where people had to be rushed into hospitals after consumption of liquid nitrogen:
1. A 12-year-old girl in Bengaluru required emergency surgery after consuming liquid nitrogen-infused paan at a wedding, resulting in perforation peritonitis—a hole in her stomach.
2. A young businessman from Gurgaon several years ago had to get nearly half his stomach removed after consuming a cocktail containing liquid nitrogen, highlighting the dangers of this practice.
3. In Gurgaon, 5 consumers suffered burns after using a liquid nitrogen mouth freshener.Alarmed by reports of injuries, the FSSAI(Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) banned the direct addition of liquid nitrogen in food service, citing non-compliance as grounds for legal action under the FSS Act.
Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi
Social trends
Source :
Published on :
June 17, 2024
Liquid nitrogen, Food Standards
Shifting priorities from necessities to luxuries: Rural non-food item expenditure in HCES 2022-23
The Household Consumption and Expenditure Survey (HCES) 2022-23 employed the CSQ (Consumption Survey Questionnaire) and DGQ (Durable Goods Questionnaire) to assess non-food item expenditure.
The HCES included a comprehensive range of non-food items to capture an accurate picture of household spending.
The broad categories evaluated included pan, tobacco and intoxicants, fuel and light, education, medical, conveyance, consumer services excluding conveyance, miscellaneous goods, entertainment, rent, taxes and cesses, clothing, bedding, footwear and durable goods.
The expenditure pattern on non-food items in India is as follows ;
Rural: 54% of MPCE of which Conveyance (7.55%), Medical (7.13%), Durable goods (6.89%), Fuel and light (6.66%), Clothing and miscellaneous (6% each).
Urban: 61% of MPCE of which Conveyance (8.59%), Durable goods (7.17%), Miscellaneous goods, entertainment, and rent (6.56% each).
Key takeaways
The share of non-food items has increased for both urban and rural households in comparison with previous surveys.
Non-food expenditure constituted a major part of total MPCE in urban areas.
Urban and rural households spend significantly more on conveyance.
Click here to read more
Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kashif
Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation
Source :
Published on :
June 17, 2024
Well-being, Non-food items, Health economics, Research findings
Food expenditure trends from the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey 2022-2023
The Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) compiles the average Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE), an indicator of living standards.
MPCE is defined as the total monthly consumption value of household goods and services divided by household size.
Expenditure Patterns on food items are as follows:
Rural: Constitutes 46% of MPCE, of which Beverages, refreshments, and processed foods (9.62%), Milk and milk products (8.33%), Vegetables (5.38%), and Cereals (4.91%).
Urban: Constitutes 39% of MPCE, of which Beverages, refreshments, and processed foods (10.64%), Milk and milk products (7.22%), and Fruits and vegetables (3.8%).
State-wise variations in food and cereal expenditure:
Food Expenditure (as % of MPCE)
Rural: 39% in Kerala to 54% in Bihar and Assam.
Urban: 35% in Telangana to 47% in Assam and Bihar.
2. Cereal Expenditure (as % of MPCE)
Rural: 3% in Haryana, Kerala, and Punjab, and 7% in Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
Urban: 3% in Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu, and 6% in Bihar and Jharkhand.
The key takeaways include the following:
The share of expenditure on food has gradually declined in rural and urban households compared with previous surveys.
Urban households spend more on food in absolute terms, constituting a smaller percentage of their total expenditure.
Beverages, refreshments, and processed foods receive the highest food budget allocation in both rural and urban areas.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kashif
Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation
Source :
Published on :
June 14, 2024
Standard of living, Well-being, Socio-economic status, Research findings
Partnership for equitable access to vaccines
The two global organizations, namely, CEPI and GAVI, have again partnered to accelerate progress toward global health.
These organizations were part of the COVAX multilateral mechanism (COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access), which expedited global equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.
This partnership will include:
Promote rapid development, production, and access to vaccines against other diseases with outbreak potential.
Develop policies to advocate for and enhance the global pandemic preparedness architecture.
The main aim is to provide equitable access to these vaccines, irrespective of people’s ability to pay, which aligns with their motto, “No one is safe until everyone is safe.”
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy
GAVI The Vaccine Alliance
Source :
Published on :
June 14, 2024
COVID-19, Vaccine, Equitable distribution
Recommendation from the 6th meeting of India Expert Advisory Group on Measles and Rubella (IEAG-MR)
Some important recommendations following the 6th meeting of the India Expert Advisory on Measles and Rubella (IEAG-MR) are as follows:
Ensuring children under two years of age are vaccinated with two doses of MR vaccine
Ensuring active case searches for all sporadic cases
Regular State Task Force and District Task Force meetings on immunization should be held.
Updating the MR outbreak preparedness and response plans
Readiness assessments and outbreak simulation exercises should be regularly conducted at the subnational level, and in the event of an outbreak, ensure outbreak response immunization
Every district needs to achieve a coverage of >95% with both the doses of MR vaccine with an NMNR (Non-Measles Non-Rubella) of >2/100,000 population and zero transmission of the virus in the community.
Following the implementation of these recommendations, currently, 198 districts have achieved >95% coverage for both doses of the vaccine, and 610 districts have achieved the desired benchmark of NMNR.
Content Editor: Dr. Prachi
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Source :
Published on :
June 14, 2024
Vaccination, Measles, Rubella, Elimination
2026: The year of the Woman Farmer
The year 2026 has been declared the year of Women Farmers by the FAO.
This platform will help adopt policies and address the barriers and challenges women farmers face in agrifood systems.
This will help promote gender equality and empowerment among women in agriculture.
According to these reports, women still face discrimination and difficulties despite making up 39% of the global agriculture workforce:
The Status of Women in Agrifood Systems
The Unjust Climate
This initiative aims to increase awareness and develop policies that will help build an efficient, inclusive, and sustainable food system.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Source :
Published on :
June 14, 2024
Agriculture, Gender equality, Nutrition
Mediterranean diet and risk of mortality among women: Findings from a cohort study
The Mediterranean diet consists of:
1. Nutritional Elements: fruits, nuts, whole grains, legumes, salmon, nuts, and vegetables (but not potatoes).
2. Fats:healthy fats, such as olive oil, are preferred as the proportion of monounsaturated is higher than saturated fatty acids.
3. Meat Intake: contains less red and processed meat than the median (80g/day).
The Mediterranean diet is frequently cited as a beneficial eating style that can enhance the results of cardiovascular disease and cardiometabolic health.
Adherence to the Mediterranean diet affects mortality rates among women, according to a 25-year-long cohort study, conducted in the US among 25315 women as part of the Women’s Health Study.
The key findings include:
A 23% lower risk of death from all causes is linked to a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet.
The decreased risk is largely explained by biomarkers associated with inflammation, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, body mass index, and small molecule metabolites.
The study examines various mediators that could account for this correlation, taking into account elements such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic well-being.
These findings demonstrate the Mediterranean diet's potential health advantages in lowering women's mortality risk.
The study highlights how crucial it is to take dietary trends into account when evaluating long-term health effects.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Shubham
The Journal of the American Medical Association
Source :
Published on :
June 14, 2024
Diet, Mortality, Cohort Study, Nutrition
The 2024 Cholera crisis: Epidemiology, challenges, and the response
As of April 2024, there were 27,696 new cholera cases reported globally, with a 31% increase in cholera-related deaths compared to the previous month.
Regional Highlights: The Eastern Mediterranean Region had the highest number of cases, followed by the African Region, the European Region, and the South-East Asia Region.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized the global reemergence of cholera as a grade 3 emergency, signifying an extremely high worldwide risk.
There is a severe shortage of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV), with 82 million doses requested but only 3.2 million doses available as of May 2024
WHO continues to support countries with coordination, surveillance, laboratory support, and vaccination campaigns despite challenges such as natural disasters, data quality, and resource limitations.
The WHO has outlined steps for addressing these as these outbreaks are complex due to factors like population mobility and climate change.
This is aggravated by key challenges that include natural disasters, data quality, and insufficient OCV stocks.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay
WHO News Section
Source :
Published on :
June 13, 2024
Cholera outbreak, Global Epidemiological update, International Health News
Chennai authorities crack down on unauthorized human breast milk sales
Food safety officials in Chennai cracked down on a warehouse selling breast milk bottles and sachets following an order by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India warning against the commercialization of such products.
Three hundred eighty-eight bottles of Neolacta Pasteurized Human Breast Milk (Neolacta PHBM & Neolacta PHBNM 70), 450 sachets of milk powder, and human factors (Neolact powder & NeoLact MMF) were seized from the store.
Meanwhile, 51 bottles of standardized and pasteurized human breast milk were seized, and a freezer and a room in the distributor’s office were sealed.
The officials received a tip from officials in Tiruvallur, who raided a shop in Madhavaram after the Neolacta Life Sciences Private Limited company complained about a staff member who had recently quit to start a human breast milk distribution unit.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Manu
Social Trends
Source :
Published on :
June 13, 2024
FSSAI, Food Adulteration, Breast Milk Commercialisation
Addressing the threat of H5N1: Importance of vigilant surveillance and public health preparedness
Since 2022, a small number of sporadic human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) have been identified globally amidst a widespread outbreak among wild birds and poultry.
Nearly all human cases reported since 2022 have been linked to poultry exposure, with no human-to-human transmission detected.
Currently, HPAI A(H5N1) viruses do not efficiently bind to receptors in the human upper respiratory tract, which limits the risk to the public.
However, additional sporadic human infections are expected due to influenza viruses' rapid evolution potential and the widespread presence of HPAI A(H5N1) in wild birds, poultry, and now dairy cattle.
Hence, ongoing comprehensive surveillance of these viruses in wild birds, poultry, mammals, and humans should be coupled with frequent risk assessments and preparedness efforts to manage public health risks.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Gurumurthy
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Source :
Published on :
June 13, 2024
Influenza, Zoonosis, Communicable diseases
Factors influencing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption in young children: A 2021 survey analysis
The initial five years are crucial for children's growth and cognitive development, requiring adequate nutrition.
The 2020-2025 US Dietary Guidelines recommend that children under two avoid added sugars and that those aged two and older limit their intake to less than 10% of their daily calories.
Nonetheless, many US children surpass these recommendations, mainly through the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) such as soda, fruit drinks, sports drinks, and energy drinks.
A study conducted using data from the 2021 National Survey of Children’s Health, which is a nationally representative survey, examined SSB consumption among children aged 1 to 5.
It revealed that 43% did not consume SSBs, 36% consumed them 1-3 times per week, and 21% consumed them four or more times per week.
Higher SSB intake was associated with older age, non-Hispanic Black ethnicity, lower caregiver education, lower household income, Spanish as the primary household language, fewer family meals, living in nonmetropolitan areas, and receiving government food assistance.
These findings highlight the necessity for targeted public health strategies to reduce SSB consumption in young children.
Interventions should be inclusive, taking into account the sociodemographic and household factors that influence SSB intake, and should aim to support children's optimal growth and development.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Gurumurthy
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Source :
Published on :
June 13, 2024
Under 5 nutrition, Processed foods, Nutrition
Deteriorating status of malnutrition in Sudan: The urgent need for action
A recent analysis by UNICEF, WFP (World Food Programme), and WHO highlighted that the present hostility worsens child malnutrition.
The year-long war had severely impacted the delivery of humanitarian supplies, leaving women and children without access to vital food and nutrition.
The prevalence of malnutrition among 33% of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers is of particular concern.
Despite the gaps caused by difficulties accessing hotspots, agencies are deeply concerned that the situation is rapidly reaching a critical and deteriorating point.
Sudan is also entering a lean season, when food stocks usually run low, so all options must be utilized to reach those in need.
Agencies urgently call for unimpeded, consistent access to those suffering the worst effects in all possible ways and for immediate de-escalation of the situation.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar
WHO News Section
Source :
Published on :
June 13, 2024
Malnutrition, War, Food insecurity
Alarming surge in Measles cases: The need for proactive measures
Within the first three months of this year, 56,634 measles cases and four deaths were reported across 45 out of 53 countries in the WHO European Region.
It will match or exceed this year when compared to last year's count of 300,000 cases.
Half of the reported cases in 2023 were under five years old and missed routine vaccinations due to COVID-19.
Viruses are imported between countries and continents, and there are regular outbreaks of the disease wherever the virus finds pockets of unvaccinated and under-vaccinated people.
The WHO advises the following:
Countries without an outbreak should be proactive in planning and preparing.
Those countries currently experiencing an outbreak should intensify case finding and contract tracing.
Sensitive people should be vaccinated to ensure that affected communities are protected.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar
United Nations Children's Fund
Source :
Published on :
June 12, 2024
International health, Infectious disease, Disease outbreak
Population-level impact of ban on alcohol: Findings from a quasi-experimental study
Alcohol intake is a significant risk factor for over 200 diseases.
Even though the levels of alcohol intake in India are lower when compared to other countries, the levels are on the rise.
In 2016, Bihar initiated the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act, which halted the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the state.
A quasi-experimental study was conducted to understand the effects of this ban on a set of outcomes, including
Weekly alcohol intake
Body weight and obesity
Noncommunicable diseases such as DM and hypertension
Intimate partner violence (IPV) experienced by women
The study used data from the National Family Health Survey 3, 4, and 5.
A difference-in-difference (DID) model was used to compare the outcomes between Bihar and the neighboring states, and a triple difference model (DDD) was used to add the male-female interaction.
The ban led to the prevention of the following:
2.4 million cases of daily/weekly alcohol consumption.
1.8 million cases of overweight/obesity among males.
2.1 million cases of IPV among females.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy
The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia
Source :
Published on :
June 12, 2024
Alcohol Intake, Public Health Laws, Prevention
Regulatory update: FSSAI bans '100% Fruit Juice' claims on reconstituted juices
FSSAI mandates all Food Business Operators (FBOs) to immediately remove ‘100% fruit juices’ claims from labels and ads of reconstituted fruit juices.
FBOs were instructed to use all pre-printed packaging effectively by September 1, 2024.
FSSAI found inaccurate marketing of reconstituted juices as ‘100% fruit juices,’ which is misleading since these contain mainly water.
The Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018, prohibit ‘100%’ claims.
FBOs must comply with sub-regulation 2.3.6 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards & Food Additives) Regulation, 2011, and a compulsory mention of “reconstituted” on labels.
Products with added sweeteners over 15 g/kg must be labeled ‘Sweetened juice.’
The FSSAI is committed to safeguarding public health by overseeing and enforcing food safety standards nationwide.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Sumana
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
June 12, 2024
Food Safety, Food Adulteration, Food standards
From seas to shores: Indian Navy’s comprehensive environmental initiatives
The Indian Navy aligns with India's low-carbon strategies, focusing on renewable energy for a 'Cleaner and Greener' environment.
On World Environment Day 2024, the Navy emphasized the need for land restoration, drought resilience, and carbon footprint reduction.
A few initiatives the Navy has taken to reiterate this vision include:
Signing an MoU with the HCL Foundation and the Habitats Trust to enhance coastal ecosystems and protect endangered marine species.
The Indian Navy supports the GoI's LiFE initiative with energy-saving measures, renewable energy projects, e-vehicles, water conservation, and other measures per GRIHA III norms.
Conduct monthly coastal cleanups, partnering with local bodies for waste disposal and recycling as part of the ‘Clean India Campaign’.
Testing of innovative technologies to reduce emissions, including a retrofit device by Chakr Innovations and hydrogen aspiration technology for ships and shore establishments
Installation of solar-powered appliances and promoting environmental responsibility through community events, solidifying its identity as a "Blue Water Force with Green Footprint".
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Sumana
Press Information Bureau
Source :
Published on :
June 12, 2024
Environmental Health, Advocacy
Action plan for mainstreaming biodiversity across agricultural sectors
This year’s theme for International Day for Biodiversity is “Be Part of the Plan” - a call to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
FAO is an integral part of this plan and launched its 2024–27 Action Plan for the Implementation of the FAO Strategy on Mainstreaming Biodiversity Across Agricultural Sectors.
This includes FAO’s Biodiversity Knowledge Hub and supporting countries in implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Currently, three FAO-led projects support Indigenous Peoples in conserving and sustainably using biodiversity.
According to the FAO, “Biodiversity is the potential food diversity in the future”; hence, conserving and sustainably using biodiversity, with uncertain climate change, has become essential for food security and nutrition.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Prachi
Food and Agriculture Organization
Source :
Published on :
June 12, 2024
One Health, Biodiversity, Agriculture sector
World Health Assembly 2024: Steps to strengthen public health in Southeast Asia region
This is a side event to the 77th World Health Assembly, which was co-hosted by the WHO Regional Office for Southeast Asia (SEARO) and the Government of India in Geneva on 27 May 2024.
The main agenda of the meeting was to develop coordinated strategies to improve public health in the Southeast Asian Region.
Some initiatives were highlighted such as:
Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Mission for universal health coverage for Indian citizens.
Digital technologies used during COVID-19, like CoWIN, are being transformed into UWIN to track immunization and create digital certificates for children.
BHISM cube, a medical aid cube that can be deployed during disasters and emergencies
The meeting found a few issues which needed further strengthening. These include:
Cooperation and collaboration with other countries for vaccination catch-up, vaccine delivery, non-communicable diseases, etc.
Strengthening health system for health emergencies, post-pandemic recovery & dealing with the climate crisis, aging population and compounding mental health issues
Decentralization of health issues at the provincial and district levels.
Click here to read more.
Content Editor: Dr. Prachi
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Source :
Published on :
June 11, 2024
International Health, World Health Assembly