A new study identifies a gene linked to the development of long COVID syndrome A new study identifies a gene linked to the development of long COVID syndrome Content Editor: Dr. Manu Goel September 24, 2025 Nature Genetics Journal Covid-19, Genomics, Long Covid A Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) carried out at the German Trias i Pujol Hospital in Barcelona used genomic data collected from 33 groups across 19 countries globally to identify genetic risk factors that could contribute to long COVID. The following were the salient findings - The study looked for single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with Long Covid. After analysing data from 6450 cases with 1 million population controls, they identified the FOXP4 gene . This association was reconfirmed in a separate cohort of 9500 cases against 8,00,000 controls. The ‘C’ variant of the rs9367106 chromosomal region near the gene led to a 63% higher chance in people of having long COVID symptoms than those without the gene. The gene increased the risk of long COVID in patients who were not hospitalised. This indicated that the severity of the initial infection was also not tied to it. It was also more common among East Asian populations . The gene was active in lung tissue, especially in type 2 alveolar cells . Thus, it helped influence the lung’s ability to respond to infection and injury. After analysing data from blood samples of people who had recovered from the initial infection, it was seen that having moderately higher levels of the FOXP4 gene doubled the odds of developing long COVID . Using co-localisation analysis, there was a 91% chance that the same genetic signal affected FOXP4 activity and the chance of developing long COVID . There was a lack of South Asian representation in the data used for the study. Therefore, its interpretation in an Indian context was limited. The GenomeIndia Project contains a large amount of genomic data, which could support future studies into long covid in an Indian scenario For further reading, click here

52-Headlines of the day (All) Public Health News Snippets 07-13th January, 2024 NCDC’s first multicentric point prevalence study on antibiotic usage Owing to a lack of studies on the patient-level use of antibiotics, the NCDC conducted India's first Multicentric point prevalence survey from November 2021 to April 2022. 20 out of 35 tertiary centers of the National Antimicrobial Consumption Networks participated in the point prevalence study. The findings of the study are as follows: The total prevalence of antibiotic use was 71.9% 86.5% of those were administered through the parental route 45% on therapeutic and 55% on prophylactic indications. The prescriptions used were classified according to the AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification recommended by WHO. According to this classification, the antibiotics used belonged to the following groups: 38% to the Access Group 57% to the Watch Group 2% to the Reserve Group Maximum usage was of those antibiotics that have the highest potential to develop resistance and fall under the category of Critically important antimicrobials for humans. Hence the study emphasises the need for rational use of antibiotics. Content Editor: Dr Urmimala Maiti National Centre for Disease Control Source : Published on : Friday, January 12, 2024 Antimicrobial Resistance, NCDC, Research findings E-Cooking: India’s new frontier of clean energy The Ministry of Power and New and Renewable Energy has launched various initiatives to promote electricity-based cooking (e-cooking) in India. These efforts aim to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and biomass for cooking and provide a clean, convenient, and cost-effective alternative. The initiatives are as follows: E-Cooking in India : Electricity-based cooking has the potential benefits of energy efficiency, cost savings, and environmental protection. Go-Electric Campaign : To promote e-cooking devices and other electric appliances among the public. National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) : The latest addition. The NECP was launched by EESL, a joint venture company under the Ministry of Power, in November 2023 to provide affordable and efficient e-cooking solutions to households and institutions. However, no surveys have been undertaken to study or assess the level of adoption of these initiatives in India. Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Prashaath Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : Thursday, January 11, 2024 Renewable Energy E-cooking, Energy Conservation India gears up for the rising COVID-19 cases. The Union Health Minister, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, chaired a high-level meeting to review the COVID-19 situation in India . The preparedness of the public health system was also assessed, including key points such as: Surveillance. Containment. Management of COVID-19. The Union Health Minister stressed the need to be alert and prepared against new and emerging strains of COVID-19 , especially considering the upcoming festive season. He urged states to ramp up testing and refer samples of COVID-19-positive cases to INSACOG labs for genome sequencing to track new variants . Following the meeting, the officials have been asked to undertake mock drills every three months at the central and state levels . This will be done to assess the functionality of medical equipment and oxygen supplies. States are urged to create awareness, manage infodemic, and ensure dissemination of factually correct information. Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Prashaath Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 11, 2024 COVID 19 Inauguration of new facilities at NEIGRIHMS to advance healthcare Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, inaugurated a range of new facilities at North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS). This includes a Regional Cancer Centre, Undergraduate Medical College, and Modular Operation Theatres. These new facilities at NEIGRIHMS aim to improve healthcare in Meghalaya. This will subsequently lead to an increase in medical course seats and reduce the necessity for residents to seek treatment outside the region. The addition of a 150-bed Critical Care Block, focusing on infectious diseases, aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission. This will ensure uninterrupted hospital care during outbreaks. These developments signify significant progress in delivering quality healthcare to Meghalaya and the Northeast. Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 11, 2024 Health Infrastructure, Northeast Region, Quality Healthcare Services, Universal Health Coverage Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign 2024: "Ending Stigma, Embracing Dignity" Leprosy patients often face stigma in the community. Insufficient awareness leads to stigma, hindering leprosy control. This also affects the social, employment, marriage, and family dynamics. The "Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign (SLAC)" introduced in 2017 addresses stigma and discrimination under the National Leprosy Eradication Program. SLAC activities: 1. Messages from authorities 2. Appeals to reduce discrimination 3. Honoring leprosy-affected individuals 4. Themed awareness. The SLAC is under renovation with a 2024 theme: "Ending Stigma, Embracing Dignity" with nationwide Gram Sabhas and various activities. As of 2023, the SLAC had already covered 80% of the villages. The State Coordination Committee and Leprosy Awareness Media Committee play a crucial role in planning and execution. Responsibilities assigned to the State Leprosy Officer, District Leprosy Officer, and Block Medical Officer are an essential push for effective campaign implementation. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Source : Published on : January 11, 2024 NLEP, SPARSH, Leprosy Eradication, Stigma Strategic revisions in Nikshay Poshan Yojana for timely TB treatment support The Indian government is executing the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) with a determined plan to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ending TB by 2025, instead of 2030. Since 2018, a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of INR 500 has been provided monthly in the Nikshay Poshan Yojana during the treatment duration. The Nikshay portal automatically generates benefits of INR 1000 at diagnosis and another INR 500 after 56 days of treatment. This will be processed through a maker/checker/approver method. To address delays, loss to follow-up, and resource optimization, the first benefit will be revised to INR 1500, followed by another INR 1500 at 84 days and subsequent monthly INR 500. This will reduce transition frequency from 5 to 2 and enhance implementation efficiency. The revised benefit system will be applied to patients notified after January 1, 2024, while existing patients will continue with the current frequency. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Source : Published on : January 11, 2024 NTEP, Nikshay Poshan, Tuberculosis Air pollution impact assessment and initiatives to combat them. Country-wide study of Air pollution impacts on human health in 20 cities under the National Environment Health profile study was conducted. The following factors were assessed: Mercury levels exposure estimation. Air Quality Assessment. Impact of traffic emission and firecrackers amongst adolescents. Air quality impact on respiratory health due to crop burning. Effects of chronic exposure to biomass fuel smoke. Major steps taken by the Government to combat air pollution include: The National Clean Air Programme - A target reduction of 20-30% in particulate matter concentration by 2024, A city-based action plan and performance-based funding, A Public Grievance Redressal portal, and An emergency response system. 2. Measures for control of vehicular emissions- Leapfrogging from BS4 to BS6 fuel standards, Radiofrequency identity, Faster adoption and manufacture of electric vehicles, and Sustainable and affordable alternative transportation. 3. Control of industrial emissions: Notifications regarding So2 and NOx emission standards Ban on pet coke and furnace oil use 4. Air quality monitoring and network: National Air Quality Index (AQI) Ambient Air Quality Network Central Control Room for tracking PM concentrations Live Air Quality data Content Editor: Dr. Aishwariya S Union Ministry of State of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes. Source : Published on : January 10, 2024 Air Pollution, Public Health Pomegranate for preventive management of diabetes The guidelines for preventive management of diabetes mellitus include lifestyle management and diets with higher levels of micronutrients. Many researchers have studied pomegranate phenols for their antioxidant blood glucose-lowering properties. However, the results of those studies have been conflicting. Hence the authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the impact of pomegranate on glycemic indices. The pooled findings of studies found that there was a significant reduction in levels of: Fasting blood glucose, Fasting insulin, HbA1c, and Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR)- which is a measure of insulin resistance. The glycemic index of pre-diabetic and diabetic individuals decreased more than non-diabetics. The study concludes that pomegranate consumption has a positive impact on the reduction of blood glucose levels . Content Editor: Dr Urmimala Maiti Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews Source : Published on : January 10, 2024 Non-Communicable Diseases, Research Findings, Diabetes Mellitus Focus on the PVTGs: The PM JANMAN Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to attend to 11 critical interventions via various ministries. The aim is to emphasize the socio-economic and health services of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Under the Development Action Plan for the Scheduled Tribes (DAPST), 15000cr is approved for the program’s execution in the next 3 years. The interventions in focus are: Availability of pucca home Connecting roads Regular water supply Mobile medical unit with required expenses Building Anganwadi, multipurpose centers, and hostels Capacity building and vocational training Provision of electricity AYUSH wellness centers Skill building of the PVTGs The target beneficiaries are set for each intervention to achieve. The collaborating ministries hope to uplift the vulnerable communities with the above actions using the resources that have been approved. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 10, 2024 Tribal health, Health Schemes, Universal Health Coverage PMGKAY extension: A landmark move towards sustained food security The Indian Cabinet has approved an extension of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY). The scheme will provide free food grains to 81.35 crore beneficiaries for five years from January 1, 2024. This initiative positions PMGKAY among the world's largest social welfare initiatives , costing approximately Rs. 11.80 lakh crore over five years as food subsidy. The scheme aims at enhancing food security and provides the following free of cost: Rice Wheat Coarse grains The scheme ensures uniform distribution through over 5 lakh Fair Price Shops with a common logo. The One Nation One Ration Card initiative simplifies access for recipients across the country, fostering the transferability of privileges within and between states . This extension reflects the enduring commitment to addressing national food and nutrition security and mitigating financial hardships for the vulnerable. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 10, 2024 Food Security, Nutrition, Social welfare Protecting the mental health of those who protect us: A novel initiative for the Armed Forces A dedicated Tele-MANAS cell was inaugurated at the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune . This approach was launched due to the various cultural, and environmental stressors prevalent among armed forces. The cell will be functional 24*7 and will be manned by psychological counselors. The Cell is an extension of the Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States initiative by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The cell will act as a central assistance center for all Armed Forces beneficiaries across India. The government is committed to addressing mental health challenges in the Armed Forces, recognizing their unique stressors. Currently, there are 46 functional Tele-MANAS cells operating across 34 States/UTs, handling over 2000 calls daily and receiving more than 4.7 lakh calls since its launch in October 2022. Content Editor: Dr. Manjeet Mohanty Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 10, 2024 Mental Health, Armed Forces, Telemedicine US FDA grants priority review for adult pneumococcal conjugate vaccine The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Merck Research Laboratories, a priority review of its application for approval of an investigational pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for adults. Merck's 21-valent (21-strain) pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, V116, is designed to help prevent pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in adults, including serotypes that are responsible for 83% of invasive pneumococcal disease in people 65 years of age and older. It has eight unique Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes not covered in currently licensed pneumococcal vaccines. The License Application is based on the results of multiple phase 3 trials that evaluated V116 in both vaccine-naïve and vaccine-experienced adults. In the STRIDE-3 trial, V116 elicited non-inferior immune responses to PCV20 (pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine) for all 10 serotypes covered by both vaccines and superior immune responses for 10 of 11 serotypes included in V116 but not covered by PCV20. The FDA has set a target action date of June 17, 2024. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami CIDRAP Source : Published on : January 9, 2024 Vaccination Government boosts medical education: Surge in colleges and seats 157 Government medical colleges have been sanctioned in phases, with 108 currently operational as per the C entrally S ponsored S cheme (CSS ). Notably, there has been an 82% surge in medical colleges (from 387 to 706) and a 112% increase in MBBS seats (from 51,348 to 1,08,848) since 2014. Active Government initiatives include: CSS for setting up and upgrading medical colleges and referral hospitals. Constructing Super Specialty Blocks under the PMSSY scheme. Approval of 22 new AIIMS institutions . Norm relaxation for medical college setup. Recognition of DNB qualification for faculty . Age limit extension to 70 years for appointments signifies efforts to address shortages. The CSS focus is on underserved areas, emphasizing a cooperative fund-sharing approach between the Centre and State Governments to build new medical colleges supporting the referral hospitals for wide community reach. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 9, 2024 Medical Education Child Poverty: Alarming rates in 40 wealthy global countries UNICEF Innocenti's latest release reveals surges in child poverty in affluent OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) and EU (European Union) nations from 2014-2021 . It underscores the adverse impact of childhood poverty on education, earnings, and life expectancy disparities. Inequality in poverty risks is stark, notably affecting children with disabilities, minorities, ethnic/ racial backgrounds, and those in lone-parent families. Stable economic growth from 2012-2019 presents a recovery opportunity post-2008-10 recession. The report stresses the potential improvement in children's living conditions, independent of a nation's wealth. To eradicate child poverty , urgent measures include: Expanding social protection . Ensuring access to quality services. Generating employment opportunities with fair pay and family-friendly policies. Tailoring measures for minority groups and single-headed households . The Report Card emphasizes the immediate impact of cash benefits in alleviating poverty, urging decision-makers to prioritize and increase expenditure on child and family benefits. Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma UNICEF Source : Published on : January 9, 2024 Child poverty, Poverty risks, OECD US FDA grants priority review for adult pneumococcal conjugate vaccine The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Merck Research Laboratories, a priority review of its application for approval of an investigational pneumococcal conjugate vaccine for adults. Merck's 21-valent (21-strain) pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, V116, is designed to help prevent pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in adults, including serotypes that are responsible for 83% of invasive pneumococcal disease in people 65 years of age and older. It has eight unique Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes not covered in currently licensed pneumococcal vaccines. The License Application is based on the results of multiple phase 3 trials that evaluated V116 in both vaccine-naïve and vaccine-experienced adults. In the STRIDE-3 trial, V116 elicited non-inferior immune responses to PCV20 (pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine) for all 10 serotypes covered by both vaccines and superior immune responses for 10 of 11 serotypes included in V116 but not covered by PCV20. The FDA has set a target action date of June 17, 2024. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami CIDRAP Source : Published on : Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Vaccination Government boosts medical education: Surge in colleges and seats 157 Government medical colleges have been sanctioned in phases, with 108 currently operational as per the C entrally S ponsored S cheme (CSS ). Notably, there has been an 82% surge in medical colleges (from 387 to 706) and a 112% increase in MBBS seats (from 51,348 to 1,08,848) since 2014. Active Government initiatives include: CSS for setting up and upgrading medical colleges and referral hospitals. Constructing Super Specialty Blocks under the PMSSY scheme. Approval of 22 new AIIMS institutions . Norm relaxation for medical college setup. Recognition of DNB qualification for faculty . Age limit extension to 70 years for appointments signifies efforts to address shortages. The CSS focus is on underserved areas, emphasizing a cooperative fund-sharing approach between the Centre and State Governments to build new medical colleges supporting the referral hospitals for wide community reach. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Medical Education Child Poverty: Alarming rates in 40 wealthy global countries UNICEF Innocenti's latest release reveals surges in child poverty in affluent OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) and EU (European Union) nations from 2014-2021 . It underscores the adverse impact of childhood poverty on education, earnings, and life expectancy disparities. Inequality in poverty risks is stark, notably affecting children with disabilities, minorities, ethnic/ racial backgrounds, and those in lone-parent families. Stable economic growth from 2012-2019 presents a recovery opportunity post-2008-10 recession. The report stresses the potential improvement in children's living conditions, independent of a nation's wealth. To eradicate child poverty , urgent measures include: Expanding social protection . Ensuring access to quality services. Generating employment opportunities with fair pay and family-friendly policies. Tailoring measures for minority groups and single-headed households . The Report Card emphasizes the immediate impact of cash benefits in alleviating poverty, urging decision-makers to prioritize and increase expenditure on child and family benefits. Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma UNICEF Source : Published on : Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Child poverty, Poverty risks, OECD WHO guidelines on chronic low back pain The World Health Organization has released guidelines for managing chronic low back pain (LBP) in primary care listing interventions for health workers. Low back pain is the leading cause of global disability. A 60% increase from 1990 to 2020 is projected to reach 843 million cases by 2050, with significant growth anticipated in Africa and Asia. WHO guidelines recommend non-surgical interventions to help people experiencing chronic primary LBP such as: Education programs that support knowledge and self-care strategies. Exercise programs . Some physical therapies (spinal manipulative therapy and massage). Psychological therapies (cognitive behavioural therapy). Medicines (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines). The guidelines emphasize holistic, person-centred, and equitable care for chronic primary low back pain due to potential harms outweighing benefits. Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma WHO News Section Source : Published on : Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Chronic low back pain, Primary care, Global disability Progress on World Health Assembly’s “pandemic treaty” An international agreement on response to future health emergencies has been negotiated in Geneva since last year’s World Health Assembly. Major points for negotiations are: Low and middle-income countries want equitable access to medical products. Waiver of intellectual property rights and access to research has been opposed by high-income countries. Common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR), i.e. countries having different obligations based on their socioeconomic status are also opposed by some high-income countries. There is a bigger pushback in the US, primarily because of distrust in the WHO by the Senate, which needs to give consent before the US can be part of the treaty. The current draft is weak in enforcement and has vague obligations , questioning its purpose. The deadline for countries to discuss it is in the May 2024 World Health Assembly, but there are concerns about it coming to fruition, given the slow pace of negotiations. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami DevEx Source : Published on : Tuesday, January 9, 2024 Global Health, Pandemic E-cigarettes: not a smoking cessation strategy! E-cigarettes are allowed on the open market and aggressively marketed to young people. 88 countries have set no minimum age requirement to buy them and 74 have no regulations at all. E-cigarettes with nicotine are highly addictive and harmful to health. They target children through social media influencers, with more than 16,000 flavors, sleek designs, and popular cartoon characters. Children 13-15 years old are using them at rates higher than adults in all WHO regions . In the UK and Canada, the rates of use in young users are doubled in comparison to adult users. Even brief exposure to e-cigarette content increases interest in these products. E-cigarette users are 3 times more likely to use cigarettes later in life. They are not recommended as a cessation strategy based on the best available evidence of efficacy, even under a controlled environment. WHO recommends strengthening the implementation of bans and surveillance in the 34 countries where they are banned. WHO also recommends strong regulations to reduce their appeal by: Banning flavors Limiting nicotine concentration Taxing them in those countries where they are legal Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami WHO News Section Source : Published on : Monday, January 8, 2024 Global Health, WHO Global status on road safety 2023 Road traffic deaths have fallen by 5% to 1.19 million annually since 2010 according to the report. The key findings of the report are as follows: 108 countries reported a drop in road-traffic-related deaths, 10 countries showed more than a 50% reduction, and 35 countries reduced the burden by 30-50%. 28% of global road traffic deaths occurred in the WHO South-East Asia Region, 25% in the Western Pacific region, and 19% in the African region. 9 in 10 deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries. The risk of death was found to be 3 times higher in low and middle-income countries even though they have just 1% of the world’s motor vehicles. 53% of all road traffic fatalities are vulnerable road users like pedestrians and riders of powered two- and three-wheelers. Pedestrian deaths rose by 3% and now account for 23% of global fatalities. Only 6 countries have laws that meet WHO best practices for all risk factors. These risk factors include- Speeding Drinking and driving Use of motorcycle helmets Seatbelts Child restraints This report is the fifth in a series, covering 2010-2021, and sets the baseline for efforts to meet the UN Decade of Action 2021-2030 target to halve road traffic deaths by 2030. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami WHO News Section Source : Published on : Monday, January 8, 2024 Global Health Critical Shortage: Manpower crisis in 25% of operation theatres in Delhi hospitals Data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare revealed that 1 in 4 operation theatres in Delhi. This implies that a total of 62 out of 235 are non-functional due to a 50 % manpower shortage . Though during the COVID pandemic, hospital beds almost doubled, manpower remained the same. Hence, patients are often referred to larger hospitals resulting in time delay and long queues. A committee was formed to address this crisis, consisting of medical directors and specialists from various hospitals . The goal was to compile a comprehensive list of doctors , evaluating their performances and the conduct of surgeries . This aims to help: Streamline surgeries Allocate time schedules and duties Reduce the burden on larger hospitals Minimize waiting periods Deter doctors from private consultancy services Content Editor: Dr Pradipta S Social Trends Source : Published on : Monday, January 8, 2024 Healthcare Infrastructure Unraveling the silent symphony of air pollution and mental health The National Green Tribunal , on behalf of ICMR , released a report on the effect of air pollution on mental health and illnesses. Quoting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, the report emphasized the correlation between particulate matter in the air and mental health illness. Fine and Coarse particulate matter (PM 2.5 AND PM 10 ) has been associated with a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Quoting published studies, the report also mentions the findings of studies conducted on pregnant women which have found a higher risk of depression following second-trimester exposure to NO2, PM2.5, and PM 10 . The report also underscores the relevance of effective measures to control air pollution. Content Editor: Dr Urmimala Maiti National Green Tribunal Source : Published on : Monday, January 8, 2024 Environmental Health, Air Pollution, Mental Health Strategies for LF elimination by 2027: An editorial review Elimination of lymphatic filariasis has been a marathon that has been going on for more than a decade now. Following the pandemic, WHO re-emphasized the goals for LF elimination by the year 2030 . In the aftermath of this, the MoHFW launched the ambitious goal of LF elimination by 2027, three years before the global target. Given this, an editorial emphasizing the various strategies that need to be developed was published in August 2023. The editorial gives the following key points : Multisectoral collaboration is one of the keys to the success of the programme. Increased community involvement . Social mobilization and sensitization of the communities will ensure willingness to ingest the drugs during the MDA. Direct observation during the MDA will ensure increased compliance with the drugs. There is a need to strengthen the evidence of transmission interruption using xenodiagnosis . The inclusion of medical colleges will help in the early diagnosis and management of disabilities. Increasing the use of rapid diagnostic tests and point-of-care tests will ensure early diagnosis and prompt treatment. There is an increased need for research involving the development of newer diagnostic tools and treatment modalities. To achieve this ambitious goal, there is a need for effective collaboration between scientific research, public policies, and social awareness programs. For futher reading - Click Here Content Editor: Dr M Swathi Shenoy Indian Journal of Public Health Source : Published on : Monday, January 8, 2024 Global health, Vector borne diseases Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 24-30th September, 2023 (5) View More 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 24-30th September, 2023 (5) View More 28-31 January, 2024 View More 7-13 January, 2024 View More 5-11th November, 2023 (5) View More 15-21st October, 2023 (12) View More 21-27 January, 2024 View More 26-30th November, 2024 (20) View More 01-04th November, 2023(4) View More 08-14th October, 2023 (5) View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) View More 24-30th September, 2023 (5) View More March 27 - 31, 2023 (15) View More March 6 - 12, 2023 (24) View More February 23 - 25, 2023 (3) View More February 15 - 16, 2023 (8) View More March 20 - 25, 2023 (18) View More March 1 - 5, 2023 (8) View More February 20 - 22, 2023 (2) View More February 07 - 14, 2023 (5) View More March 13 - 18, 2023 (8) View More February 26 - 28, 2023 (15) View More February 17 - 19, 2023 (3) View More February 01 - 06, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

WHO Updates Global Guidelines for TB Screening Technologies WHO Updates Global Guidelines for TB Screening Technologies Content Editor : Dr. Sudeep September 23, 2025 World Health Organization (WHO website) Tuberculosis, WHO, TB Screening test, international collaboration, TB Target product profiles TPPs have been defined by the WHO, starting from 2014, with the intention to define quality standards to support international collaboration towards TB elimination by promoting the development of TB screening tests in different parts of the world, which follow basic quality standards criteria. Since then, there has been continuous innovation and advancements in TB screening technology and current additions include technology such as portable radiological scanners and Artificial Intelligence aided software for detection which provide unsupervised and rapid Chest X-ray interpretation. A rapid (active) case detection gap continues to remain a significant barrier to slow TB elimination efforts, accentuated by limited options within low cost, high accuracy and widely adaptable screening tools. The 2025 TPPs offer technology-agnostic guidance on TB screening, defining three tool types suitable for different settings. They were developed with global expert input and modeling to optimize test performance and cost-effectiveness. Thus, WHO is promoting research efforts in all countries interested irrespective of past contributions, with an aim to work in collaboration for finding a universally adaptable low cost and high accuracy screening test for TB.

Can HPV infection increase the risk of heart-related mortality? Can HPV infection increase the risk of heart-related mortality? Content editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal February 23, 2024 Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Policy Infectious diseases, CVD, HPV From 2004 to 2018, 163,250 CVD-free women aged 30 and older completed routine high-risk HR-HPV screening under this study. The average age of the patients was 40.2 years. Overall, 9.2% were infected with HR-HPV, and all had low traditional CVD risk factors. During 1.4 million person-years of follow-up, 134 women died of CVD, with 16% being HR-HPV-positive. After adjusting for CVD risk variables and potential confounding factors, infected women had risks of atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD), ischemic heart disease, and stroke death that were 3.91, 3.74, and 5.86 times higher than their uninfected peers, respectively. The study's findings, along with other research linking viruses like HPV to higher CVD death rates, "make a strong case for accepting viruses as risk factors for adverse outcomes from ASCVD." Click here to read more.

Addressing disparities and barriers in opioid use disorder treatment: An overview Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay July 12, 2024 at 3:00:00 PM CDC weekly report, , Opioid use disorder, International Health News A report highlighting the disparities and barries to treatment of opoid use disorder in 2022, was recently published. In 2022, only 25% of U.S. adults needing Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment received recommended medications , while 30% received treatment without them. Disparities exist, with higher percentages of white adults receiving any OUD treatment compared to Black or Hispanic adults. Men and adults aged 35–49 were more likely to receive medications than women and other age groups. To improve public health outcomes, there is a need for increased communication about the effectiveness of OUD medications and for healthcare providers to offer evidence-based treatments, including medications. Barriers to medication access include clinician preferences, regulatory issues, and lack of availability in pharmacies. This report underscores the underuse of OUD medications and the demographic disparities in treatment, highlighting the need to address these challenges. Click here to read more. Previous Next

Driving Healthcare Access: 100 Microsites Initiative for Digital Health Adoption by National Health Authority Driving Healthcare Access: 100 Microsites Initiative for Digital Health Adoption by National Health Authority Content Editor: Dr. Ismail Rifai August 4, 2023 Press Information Bureau Digital Health, National Health Authority The National Health Authority launched the 100 Microsites Project under Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) to enhance healthcare accessibility through digital health adoption. Microsites are clusters of small-medium healthcare facilities offering digital services to patients. The project aims to create complete ABDM adoption in specific areas, digitizing the patient journey. State Mission Directors implement Microsites with NHA's guidance and resources. The focus is to establish 100 Microsites, increasing ABDM adoption among private healthcare providers and activating a wider digital health ecosystem. All health facilities and professionals, especially from the private sector, are registered on ABDM modules. Patients' health records are linked to ABHA, accessible through mobile apps.

Suspected diphtheria outbreak claims lives in Odisha : Recent updates Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kashif June 19, 2024 at 3:30:00 PM Disease outbreak, Diphtheria 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. Previous Next

Alleged data leak of COVID vaccination; govt. denies breach Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal June 18, 2023 at 5:36:40 PM COVID, Data breach, Digital security, CoWIN If the mobile number of the person is administered in the portal, his ID details and centre from where he was vaccinated can be taken out. Details could be accessed even with the Aadhar number. Union IT ministry stressed that the data breached was previously stolen but not from COWIN portal. Another arena of worry is that CoWIN has been integrated with UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) and Aarogya Setu app. Union IT Ministry has asked CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) to investigate the matter. Previous Next

Burkholderia multivorans Infections Linked to Contaminated Ice Machines in Hospitals (2020-2024) Burkholderia multivorans Infections Linked to Contaminated Ice Machines in Hospitals (2020-2024) Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay October 17, 2024 CDC International health news, outbreak, infectious diseases Between 2020 and 2024, four hospitals in California and Colorado reported a total of 46 cases of Burkholderia multivorans infections. The source of these infections was found to be contaminated ice and water from hospital ice machines. Whole genome sequencing confirmed that the ice machines harbored the same bacterial strain (ST659). The bacteria primarily affected immunocompromised and critically ill patients , causing respiratory, blood, and intra-abdominal infections. Investigations by public health authorities revealed that these hospitals used identical ice machines and similar sanitizing products, which likely contributed to the contamination. As a response, public health officials advised against using tap water and ice from these machines during patient care activities . Although the ice machines were replaced, sporadic infections persisted. This outbreak emphasizes the critical importance of implementing rigorous water management practices in hospitals to prevent similar incidents. Click here to read more

Health Ministry Advisory on Nutritional Awareness Boards in Workplace Content Editor: Dr. Anamika August 26, 2025 at 8:13:11 AM Oil and Sugar Boards, Health Ministry, workplace nutrition, NP-NCD The Union Health Ministry has released an advisory urging workplaces to display informative boards on oil and sugar to spread awareness about hidden fats and excess sugar in foods. These boards, to be placed in canteens, lobbies, and meeting areas, aim to encourage healthier food choices and daily habits. It does not mandate warning labels on traditional snacks like samosa or jalebi and does not target Indian street food. Instead, it promotes general lifestyle changes under the NP-NCD programme, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, choosing low-fat options, walking more, and taking short activity breaks to reduce lifestyle diseases. click here Previous Next