Economic development following the floods of 2018 in regions of Kerala Economic development following the floods of 2018 in regions of Kerala Content Editor: Dr. K. Hima Swetha July 29, 2023 The Hindu Economic development, Entrepreneurship, Health In Kerala, the economic consequences and loss of livelihood after the floods of 2018 were catastrophic. However, women in India have found a footing in this crestfallen condition and have come up with entrepreneurial ideas. A group of six women have opened a water sports and entertainment park at Payattupakka in Neelamperoor, Kerala. The park is situated on a large waterlogged paddy polder and offers visitors kayaking, pedal boat, dinghy, and coracle services. The water sports park and related activities have been funded under the Rebuild Kerala Initiative-Entrepreneurship Development Programme (RKI-EDP). Another all-women team has opened a health tourism clinic at Pulinkunnu. Similarly, other groups have taken up roles as tourism providers and have opened cafeterias and restaurants in different parts of the region. These activities have helped in the economic development of the region.

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. 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92-Headlines of the day (List) Public Health News Snippets 21 - 26th October, 2024 A path analysis of mental health, socioeconomic position and oral health Study sample consisted of 5682 adults, evaluated relationships between SocioEconomic status, dental health seeking behavior, oral health and mental health and how these are associated with oral health status. It was found that Socio-Economic status is directly associated with mental health and indirectly associated with self rated oral health status . Oral health behavior modified the relationship between Socio Economic Position and self rated oral health . It was also found that Socio Economic Position is linked to both mental health and oral health sharing common social determinants of health. It demonstrated a well fitting model that demonstrated association between SEP and mental health, oral health behaviors and dental treatment seeking were in turn associated with oral health. This provides evidence that oral health is a part of overall health and oral health and mental health are connected in multifaceted ways. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar Centre for DiseaseControl and Prevention Source : Published on : October 26, 2024 Health Analysis, Integrated health, oral health Suicide rates and selected county-level factors- United States, 2022 Suicide deaths from 2022 National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) mortality files were identified using International Classification of Diseases. Three county-level factors (health insurance coverage, broadband internet access, household income ) were selected based on published literature and relevance to suicide prevention strategies, which were measured and linked with dependent county of residence. Overall, suicide rates were inversely related to each of three county-level factor textiles. This analysis found higher suicide rates continue to affect certain sociodemographic groups, such as rural residents, males and white populations It is essentially important for population affected by suicide that decision makers, government agencies and community can work together to implement programs, practices, and policies that increase access to health insurance and broadband internet and promote economic support, combined with downstream actions that support persons at increased or immediate risk for suicide. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Source : Published on : October 26, 2024 Suicide prevention, international health Household energy insecurity and Diabetes prevalence among US adults, 2020 Study used data from 2020 Residential Energy consumption survey(RECS) and Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s US Diabetes Surveillance system to obtain 2020 state level diagnosed diabetes prevalence. Study stated that states with high prevalence of energy insecurity had higher prevalence of diabetes mainly among southern states. Additionally it found that reducing or forgoing food or medicine to pay energy costs was the most common form of energy insecurity. Low prevalence of ever receiving energy assistance gives opportunity to lower energy insecurity in states with high disease burden. Even though there are programmes they have been underfunded and subjected to budget cuts in giving energy related assistance programs for low income households. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar Centre for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) Source : Published on : October 26, 2024 Non communicable disease, International Health, Energy insecurity Brain ages at different paces in accordance to social and physical environments This study involved 5306 diverse participants across 15 countries published in Nature medicine, involving University of Surrey where they measured brain aging using advanced brain clocks based on deep learning of brain networks. They quantified brain age gaps in healthy individuals and those with neurodegenerative conditions by analyzing data from functional magnetic resonance imaging(fMRI) and electroencephalography(EEG). Study showed that in countries with high inequality, the brain tends to age faster and participants with dementia exhibited critical brain age gaps. It also highlighted sex differences such as women in Latin American countries(LAC) showed greater gaps in brain age. It has profound implications on understanding interaction between macro factors and mechanisms that underlie brain aging and integrates multiple dimensions of diversity into brain health research offering a new framework for personalized medicine. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Soundhar Science Daily Source : Published on : October 26, 2024 Brain health, Aging, Universal Health India eliminates trachoma as a public health problem The World Health Organisation declared India as having eliminated trachoma as a public health problem on 8th October 2024. India joins Nepal and Myanmar in the South East Asia Region along with becoming the 19th country worldwide to achieve this status. India reduced cases of trachoma from causing 5% of blindness cases in the 1960s, to less than 0.008% in 2018, far less than the WHO standards of 5% or less . Finally, after a series of impact, prevalidation and trachoma only surveys carried out from 2019-2024, India achieved its trachoma free status . The efforts were led by the development of a Trachoma Control Projec t in 1963 which became a part of the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) In 1976. The methods employed were based on the WHO SAFE method , focusing on surgical treatment for the trichomonas trichiasis stage (S), antibiotic distribution to cure infections (A), facial hygiene methods to reduce the spread of infections (F)and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation (E). Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Manu World Health Organisation Source : Published on : October 26, 2024 World Health Organisation, Trachoma, Outbreak Management, Elimination of Diseases India develops its first indigenous Monkeypox testing kit Visakhapatnam-based Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone, in collaboration with TransAsia Diagnostics Private Limited, unveiled India’s first indigenously developed Monkeypox (Mpox) diagnostic kit, named ‘ErbaMDx MonkeyPox RT-PCR Kit’ . The kit underwent strict testing by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR ) and received emergency authorization from The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO ) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW ). It can be stored at ambient temperature, making it easy to use in inaccessible regions. It also boasts a 12-month shelf life and 0 cross-reactivity with other orthopoxviruses , ensuring better diagnostic accuracy. The development of this kit thus signals India’s growing ability within the field of healthcare and diagnostics. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Manu Social trends Source : Published on : October 25, 2024 Monkeypox, RTPCR, Diagnostics, Outbreak Management Lightning strike fatalities increase in India: Research findings A study published in Environment, Development, and Sustainability, conducted by researchers in India and internationally led by the Department of Geography at Fakir Mohan University, Odisha, analyzed data to realize that lightning strikes increased in India from 2010 to 2020. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau found 1,01,309 deaths attributed to lightning since 1967. Out of these, a third, i.e., 29,804, took place between 2010-2020, with 71,505 deaths registered from 1967 till 2010. Meanwhile, average deaths per state and Union Territory increased from 38 in 1967-2010 to 61 in 2010-2020. Central India accounted for nearly 50% (50,884) of these deaths . The authors implicated environmental degradation, climate change, high population exposure, socioeconomic factors, etc., for the rise in lightning strikes. The authors encouraged early warning systems, greater research, and community engagement as methods to combat this rise. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Manu Social trends Source : Published on : October 25, 2024 Climate Change, Research, Lightning Strikes Dhulikhel municipality in Nepal declared a ‘Healthy City’ WHO recently declared Dhulikhel municipality, a tourist town in the Kavrepalanchok district of Nepal , a ‘healthy city .’ It became Nepal's first healthy city and Asia's second after Banda city in Pune, India. WHO started the Healthy Cities Network in Europe and expanded it beyond to inculcate cities that focused on health as a primary objective and enshrined community participation in decisions regarding healthcare. Dhulikhel scored 65.48 across various indicators such as citizens’ access to health, participation in health policy-making, political commitment to health, nutrition, child health, and innovative health initiatives such as tuberculosis-free and nutrition-friendly programs, etc., allowing it to join the network. The city also received a cash prize of USD 5000 for this achievement. This achievement is in stark contrast to the rest of the country, which, based on PM 2.5 levels, has been named the third most polluted country in the world . Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Manu Social trends Source : Published on : October 25, 2024 Air Pollution, Healthcare, Sustainable Development Goals, World Health Organisation Alinity m MPXV: The newest diagnostic test for emergency use against Mpox Limited testing capacity and delays in confirming mpox cases continue to hinder efforts in Africa, allowing the virus to spread further. In 2024, over 30,000 suspected cases were reported across the continent, with the highest numbers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria. Notably, only 37% of suspected cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been tested this year. The presence of the monkeypox virus is confirmed through nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) , including real-time or conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR), as outlined in the WHO's Interim Guidance on diagnostic testing for mpox. The lesion material is the recommended specimen type for confirming monkeypox virus (MPXV) infection through NAAT. The Alinity m MPXV assay is a real-time PCR test that detects monkeypox virus (clade I/II) DNA in human skin lesion swabs. By detecting DNA from pustular or vesicular rash samples, laboratory and health workers can confirm suspected mpox cases efficiently and effectively. This first mpox diagnostic test listed under the Emergency Use Listing procedure represents a significant milestone in expanding testing availability in affected countries. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Tanya WHO News Section Source : Published on : October 25, 2024 MPox, Emergency Use License, Diagnostics Waning immunity: The cause for increased burden of Measles A recent study published in The Lancet Public Health highlights that immunity from the measles vaccine wanes over time, contributing to an increase in cases among vaccinated individuals in England. Researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine used mathematical modeling to analyze measles transmission data from 2010 to 2019. The study examined three scenarios: no waning of immunity, waning based on time since vaccination, and waning starting in 2000 . Using data from over 7,500 measles cases, the study found that waning immunity best explained the increase in cases, especially in those aged 15 years and older who had received two doses of the vaccine. The estimated waning rate was 0.039% per year, leading to 83% of onward transmission from vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated ones. The findings underscore the need for ongoing monitoring of vaccine-induced immunity in near-elimination settings like England, where waning immunity could pose a risk for future outbreaks. Despite the vaccine’s high long-term effectiveness, this slow waning still increases the measles burden. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Gurumurthy The Lancet Source : Published on : October 25, 2024 Vaccination, Outbreak, Measles Mental Health Risks in Cancer Survivors Persist Long-Term A recent study published in eClinicalMedicine reveals that cancer survivors face elevated risks of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, non-fatal self-harm, and suicide, compared to cancer-free individuals. Researchers conducted a cohort study using UK electronic health records from over 853,000 cancer survivors and 8.1 million cancer-free individuals. The study focused on survivors of the 20 most common cancers and examined mental health outcomes over short, medium, and long-term follow-up. The methodology involved matching cancer survivors with cancer-free individuals based on age, sex, and general practice, and analyzing their risks for new mental health episodes using Cox regression models. The results showed that survivors of cancers with poorer survival rates, such as lung and pancreatic cancers, experienced significantly higher risks of depression, anxiety, and self-harm. These risks were highest within the first year after diagnosis but persisted for more than five years for many cancer types. The study concludes that cancer survivors need enhanced psychological support, especially those with poorer prognosis cancers. The findings highlight the importance of addressing the long-term mental health impacts of cancer survivorship. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Dr Ghurumourthy eClinicalMedicine Source : Published on : October 18, 2024 Mental Health, Cancer Survivor Emergency Department Visit Rates for Acute Upper Respiratory Infections in U.S. Children and Adolescents (2021-2022) In the year 2021-2022, children and adolescents in the United States had an emergency department (ED) visit rate of 38.6 per 1,000 for acute upper respiratory infections (URI). The highest visit rate was observed in infants under one year at 120.5 per 1,000, while the lowest was in adolescents aged 12-17 at 14.4 per 1,000. Regardless of whether they were viral or bacterial, these infections had a significant impact on younger age groups, and the rates decreased as age increased. The data was collected from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey , which focused on general hospitals throughout the United States, excluding federal and military facilities. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay CDC, National Center for Health Statistics, National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, 2021–2022 Source : Published on : October 18, 2024 Quickstats, child and adolescent health, upper respiratory infection Tiruchirappalli pioneers a Community-driven sanitation revolution Tiruchirappalli, a vibrant city in Tamil Nadu, is setting a powerful example of urban sanitation through its community-managed toilet initiative . In areas previously known for poor sanitation, the city’s slums have witnessed a remarkable transformation. Approximately 400 public toilets have been constructed, with 150 of them managed by women-led self-help groups (SHGs), known as Sanitation Hygiene Education (SHE) teams . These groups play a vital role in maintaining hygiene standards, which has significantly contributed to Trichy becoming an Open Defecation Free (ODF) city . As India marks the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission , this initiative highlights the importance of community participation in sustaining sanitation infrastructure. The ongoing Swabhav Swachhata Sanskaar Swachhata (4S) campaign celebrates Trichy’s success, demonstrating how grassroots efforts can lead to lasting, sustainable improvements in public health and cleanliness. This story of Tiruchirappalli reminds us that the true change can come from within the community Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Dheena Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 18, 2024 Environmental Hygiene, Cleanliness Drive, Community Participation The plight of Trans-genders in Pakistan Only 221 transgenders currently benefit from the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) , a key social protection initiative that provides PKR 10,500 (approximately $37.50) quarterly to 8.6 million recipients nationwide. Following the devastating floods of 2022 , about 95% of transgender individuals were unable to access relief programs due to challenges in producing identity documents. Many lack ownership papers for their residences and utility bills in their names, which further complicates their eligibility for assistance. Additionally, few have been able to participate in the government's free solar panel distribution initiative launched in August. Transgender individuals are notably absent from Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) disaster management guidelines , highlighting systemic gaps in support for this community. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Tanya Transgenders, Social issues Source : Published on : October 18, 2024 Social Trends ICGA- Indian Cancer Genome Atlas launched The Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA) foundation has launched a portal to provide breast cancer patients with their DNA, RNA, and protein profiles and clinical outcomes. With a set of data coming from the West, there can be major variances in genetic variants in cancer among Indian patients . The platform aims to increase our understanding about these variations. The platform now has data from 50 breast cancer patients in an attempt to increase ethical communication and cooperation in the field of cancer research. In the future, data from more than 500 patients are going to be covered , though. The International Consortium for Genome Atlas (ICGA) is modeled after the U.S.-based Cancer Genome Atlas and aims to develop an ecosystem of drug firms, diagnostic businesses, and hospitals by offering incentives for data sharing. It is based on the cBioPortal Platform which guarantees smooth integration with worldwide cancer research endeavors. The program aims to transform cancer research in India by assisting scientists and medical professionals in creating individualized treatment plans. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Shubham ICGA Foundation Source : Published on : October 17, 2024 Cancer Registry Case of re-emerging illness, Murine Typhus, reported in Kerala On 11th October 2024, the Kerala State Surveillance Unit, Directorate of Health Services, reported one case of Murine Typhus in Thiruvananthapuram district. A 75-year-old resident of Kerala, who had returned from Vietnam and Cambodia, fell ill on 8th September. After several tests and consideration of the travel history, the patient was diagnosed with Murine Typhus. The bacteria, Rickettsia typh i, causes illness in rats, cats, or opossums. The vector, the Oriental rat flea , can infect humans or animals through a bite that creates a wound. When flea dirt (flea feces containing the bacteria) is rubbed into the wound, it leads to infection. Symptoms include fever, chills, rash, and headache . While it can cause severe illness, the case fatality rate is less than 1%. Treatment with doxycycline aids recovery from the illness. Kerala has been reporting cases of scrub typhus, but this was the first case of Murine Typhus. Although the risk of spreading the illness is low , as it is not transmitted from human to human , preventive measures are recommended. They include keeping rodents away from homes and workplaces by maintaining safe, clean, and hygienic practices, and protecting oneself from flea bites. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Directorate of Health Services, Kerala; Centre for Disease Control Source : Published on : October 17, 2024 Infectious Disease, Re-emerging illness, Murine Typhus Burkholderia multivorans Infections Linked to Contaminated Ice Machines in Hospitals (2020-2024) 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 Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay CDC Source : Published on : October 17, 2024 International health news, outbreak, infectious diseases Implications of reducing screen time on child’ mental health A study published in JAMA Network Open observed that reducing screen media use significantly improves the mental health of children and adolescents. The study involved 89 families and focused on a 2-week intervention to limit screen time to 3 hours per week. The key outcomes of the study are behavioral improvement and prosocial behavior, and the findings include: Behavioral Improvements: The intervention group showed a notable decrease in behavioral difficulties, particularly internalizing symptoms such as emotional and peer problems. Prosocial Behavior : Children in the screen reduction group exhibited enhanced prosocial behavior, indicating better social interactions. Short-term reduction in screen media use positively affects children's and adolescents' mental health. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Prashaath JAMA Network Open Source : Published on : October 12, 2024 Screen time, Mental health, Child health India's health revolution: 100 days of transformative innovations The Union Health Minister applauded the Department of Health Research's successful implementation of the 100 Days Program , which signaled a major advancement in healthcare innovation. Major accomplishments include: The Med-Tech Mitra project: It has helped over 250 medical innovation firms. National One Health Mission launched to improve pandemic preparedness Establishment of the Network of BSL-3 Laboratories A successful H5N1 "Vishanu Yudh Abhyas " simulation drill was carried out during the pandemic preparation. To improve the nation's response to infectious diseases, six Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) are being converted into Integrated Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (IRDL) The Program for Development of Indigenous Drugs for Rare Diseases aims to lower the cost of treating diseases like muscular dystrophy. Moreover, high-risk, high-reward biomedical research will be funded under the "First in the World" Challenge , establishing India as a pioneer in international healthcare solutions. These revolutionary actions demonstrate India's resolve to achieve Atmanirbhar(self-reliance) in the healthcare sector by 2047. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Dheena Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 12, 2024 Health Research, Government Initiatives, Innovation Antimicrobial resistance in India: The status and the way ahead India has reaffirmed its resolute dedication to tackling the increasing challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stressed the immediate necessity for worldwide collaboration to confront this vital challenge. Key Points: She pointed out that AMR jeopardizes years of advancements in contemporary medicine and poses a significant danger to global public health. She emphasized India's remarkable progress in the battle against AMR through its National Action Plan (NAP AMR), which includes enhancing surveillance systems, advocating for responsible antimicrobial usage, and bolstering infection prevention and control measures. She called for incorporating AMR containment strategies into various health initiatives , such as pandemic preparedness, strengthening health systems, and achieving universal health coverage. India's revamped NAP-AMR 2.0 emphasizes collaborative efforts across sectors, leveraging "One Health" approaches. The UNGA High-Level Meeting on AMR was vital to elevate awareness and bolster global initiatives to address this expanding health crisis. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Shayari Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 12, 2024 AMR, One Health, Global Health Financial empowerment of girls: The success of Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana is transforming the lives of young girls in India, promoting financial security and empowerment. Launched in 2015 under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign, it aims to secure the future of girls by opening savings accounts for them. Over 4.50 lakh accounts have been opened, with 487 villages declared as complete Sukanya Samriddhi Grams in the North Gujarat region. Economic Empowerment : The scheme promotes financial security for girls, supporting their education, career, and marriage. Interest and Tax Benefits : Offers an 8.2% interest rate and income tax exemptions. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 10, 2024 Empowerment, National schemes Ayushman Bharat: A milestone in universal health coverage Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, launched in 2018, has covered over 12 crore families. Achievements of PMJAY: Over 35.4 crore Ayushman cards issued, 7.79 crore hospital admissions authorized, and ₹1,07,125 crores in financial coverage provided. Gender Equity : 49% of Ayushman cards issued to women, with significant hospital admissions utilized by them. Impact of the scheme: The scheme has reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures by 21 % and emergency loans by 8%, making life-saving treatments more affordable. Expansion for Seniors : In 2024, the scheme expanded to offer free health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 and above . Portability and Network : Beneficiaries can access treatment at any of the 30,529 empanelled hospitals across India. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Sathya Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 10, 2024 Universal Health Coverage, Health insurance, Health Building a tobacco-free future: Country's initiative for the youth in schools A joint advisory was issued by the Union Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for the implementation of the Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI ) manual. The main concerns included: 8.5% of school students in India used tobacco (GYTS 2019), over 5,500 children started using tobacco daily, and 55% of lifelong tobacco users began before age 20 . Since the launch, they are working on the following objectives: Raising awareness of tobacco's harmful effects Promoting cessation resources Creating a tobacco-free environment Improving enforcement of legal provisions regarding tobacco sales. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Anamika Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 10, 2024 Tobacco-free, Youth, Educational institutions Global food regulators summit 2024: Advancing food safety and innovation worldwide The second edition of the Global Food Regulators Summit 2024 was inaugurated by the Union Health Minister. The summit emphasizes collaboration and innovation , aiming to share insights and best practices for ensuring safe and nutritious food worldwide . It aims to establish a global platform for food regulators to share insights on food safety systems. Focus areas include addressing foodborne illnesses, nutraceutical safety, novel foods, and microplastics. New initiatives launched include the Food Import Rejection Alerts (FIRA) portal for notifying food import rejections and the Food Import Clearance System 2.0 (FICS 2.0) for faster processing and transparency. The State Food Safety Index (SFSI ) 2024 was released, with Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, and Nagaland leading the rankings. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Anamika Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 10, 2024 Food safety, Food regulators, Food security, Nutrition Empowering youth: Launch of the tobacco free youth campaign 2.0 Union Minister of State for Health, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, launched the Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 2.0 alongside virtual Tobacco Cessation Centres. The 60-day campaign focuses on: Raising awareness about tobacco dangers, especially in youth and rural areas. Ensuring compliance with Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) guidelines. Strengthening enforcement of tobacco control laws (COTPA 2003, PECA 2019). Promoting Tobacco-Free Villages for healthier communities. Enhancing social media outreach to inform youth about quitting tobacco. The first campaign, launched on May 31, 2023, led to over 142,000 educational institutions and 12,000 villages being declared tobacco-free. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Anamika Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 10, 2024 Tobacco Control, Youth Health, Awareness Campaign International Daughters Day: India's empowering initiatives International Daughter's Day, observed on September 22nd, highlights the importance of empowering girls and investing in their future. Key Highlights: Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: This savings scheme, launched in 2015, encourages parents to invest in their daughters' education and future by providing a dedicated account with attractive interest rates. Over 500 villages in North Gujarat have achieved the status of "Sukanya Samriddhi Gram" where all eligible girls have opened accounts. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: This flagship campaign, launched in 2015, aims to improve the status of girls in India by addressing gender disparities and promoting their education. Other Initiatives: Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG): Provides nutritional and health support to adolescent girls. Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene: Enhances menstrual hygiene practices for girls in rural areas. UDAAN: Empowers girls to pursue careers in engineering by providing them with resources and support. National Scheme of Incentives to Girls for Secondary Education (NSIGSE): Provides financial incentives to girls from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to encourage their enrollment and retention in secondary education. By investing in these initiatives, India is taking concrete steps to empower its daughters and ensure they have equal opportunities to thrive and contribute to society . International Daughter's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of these efforts and the need to continue working towards a future where all girls are valued and empowered. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Shayarai Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 5, 2024 Women Empowerment, Equity, Inclusion Ayushman Bharat digital mission: Three years of transformation in India's healthcare The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) is marking its third anniversary, showcasing its impact on the nation's healthcare landscape. Launched in September 2021, ABDM aims to establish a robust digital health infrastructure that enhances healthcare access, efficiency, and transparency. Key Achievements: Over 67 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA ) created providing individuals with unique digital health IDs to securely manage their medical records. Over 42 crore health records linked to ABHA streamlining access to medical histories for better healthcare delivery. 1.3 lakh facilities ABDM-enabled including over 17,000 private facilities, fostering greater interoperability in the healthcare ecosystem. 3.3 lakh health facilities and 4.7 lakh healthcare professionals registered creating a comprehensive national registry for better coordination. Key Initiatives: Scan and Share: QR-code based OPD registration reducing waiting times and improving data accuracy. Digital Health Incentive Scheme (DHIS ): Financial incentives to encourage adoption of digital health practices. Microsites for Private Sector Adoption: Supporting private facilities in adopting ABDM. ABDM aims to create a seamless digital healthcare ecosystem where every Indian citizen has access to their health records. By fostering partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders, ABDM continues to drive towards a more accessible, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare system in India . Click here to read more. Content Editor: Shayari Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 5, 2024 Digital Health, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, Innovation India takes lead in tackling NAFLD: Revised guidelines released The Union Health Ministry unveiled revised operational guidelines and a training module for NAFLD , highlighting India’s commitment to tackling this major non-communicable disease. Union Health Secretary emphasized NAFLD’s link to metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes, describing it as an emerging public health concern (out of 10 persons 1 to 3 persons will be having Fatty liver or related disease). The updated documents aim to strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers —from community health workers to medical officers—to ensure early detection and comprehensive care . The importance of empowering grassroots workers was underscored. The strong connection between liver health and other NCDs was emphasized. This initiative reflects India’s proactive approach to addressing the silent epidemic of NAFLD through a multidisciplinary and evidence-based framework. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Dheena Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 5, 2024 Non Communicable Diseases, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, National programme National webinar on Rabies control: Emphasis on vaccination and collaboration Smt. Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary of Animal Husbandry, chaired a National Webinar on the eve of World Rabies Day 2024. Key officials and over 1000 participants from veterinary departments, universities, and NGOs attended. She urged for collaborative efforts to eliminate dog-mediated rabies , prioritising mass dog vaccination (MDV ) as the most cost-effective control method. The importance of controlling stray dog populations for effective rabies prevention was tressed upon. The session highlighted public awareness, responsible pet ownership, and coordinated vaccination efforts. Success stories from Goa, Kerala, and Sikkim were shared, showcasing effective models of rabies control through mass vaccination, sterilization, and awareness campaigns. Dr. Simmi Tiwari, Joint Director and Head, Centre for One Health NCDC provided updates on India’s National Rabies Control Program, targeting rabies elimination by 2030. Emphasis was placed on improving rabies surveillance, legislation, and reporting systems. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 4, 2024 Rabies, Neglected tropical diseases, One health Advancing rights and education for the deaf: Key initiatives on Sign Language Day 2024 Sign Language Day Celebrated on September 23, highlights the importance of sign language in promoting deaf individuals' rights globally. The 2024 theme, "Sign up for Sign Language Rights," focuses on advancing Indian Sign Language (ISL) for inclusive education and empowerment. Key initiatives include: Introduction of 2500 new ISL terms for different fields and subjects. 100 ISL concept videos for 6th-grade students for developed learning. ISL dictionary expanded to 10 regional languages. Educational animated videos and deaf role model videos launched. The Indian government’s schemes for persons with disabilities include ADIP for aids , scholarships, financial support for deaf colleges, and a diploma course in ISL teaching. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (2016) mandates free, inclusive education and 5% reservation for persons with disabilities in higher education. Sign Language Day emphasises the importance of inclusive education and rights for the deaf community, with initiatives like the Samagra Shiksha Scheme supporting children with special needs through tailored resources and financial aid. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 4, 2024 Disabilities rights, Inclusivity, Disabilities Tackling global disparities in pediatric cancer care Each year, around 400,000 children worldwide develop cancer , but only half are diagnosed, with survival rates varying significantly between high-income and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In high-income countries, over 80% of children survive, compared to less than 30% in many LMICs. The SNF Global Pediatric Cancer Program , a collaboration between Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, aims to address these disparities through international healthcare collaborations. The program improves access to precise diagnostics, treatment guidance, and molecular testing in LMICs. It also focuses on training local healthcare providers to enhance care quality and uses digital health solutions for remote care delivery. By expanding clinical expertise and providing local resources, the initiative aims to boost survival rates and ensure equitable cancer care for children globally. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy Global Health Initiative Source : Published on : October 4, 2024 Cancer, Equity, Universal health coverage Discussions on the reforms in organ donation in India: A roadmap for the future A two-day Chintan Shivir on "Reforms for Augmenting Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation" was organized by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in New Delhi. The event gathered government officials, transplant professionals, NGOs, and state representatives to discuss critical reforms in technology, processes, and legislation aimed at improving organ donation and transplantation in India. The Shivir focused on several key objectives, such as: Discussing reforms needed to boost organ and tissue donation Exploring technological advancements to improve donation and allocation processes Proposing legislative changes to strengthen the legal framework . The sessions also covered topics such as "One Nation, One Policy," transparency, and improving access and affordability of organ transplants , while preparing a roadmap for the future. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : October 3, 2024 Organ Donation, Advancements, Public health Listeria outbreak in US: 10 deaths reported A Listeria outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli-sliced meats, including liverwurst, has led to 59 confirmed cases and 10 deaths across 19 states in the US. Contaminated meats produced between June and July 2024 have been recalled, and consumers are advised to discard these products or return them. Listeria spreads easily through deli surfaces and equipment and can survive refrigeration, but it is killed by reheating food to 165°F. High-risk individuals, including pregnant women, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, have been advised to avoid deli meats unless properly reheated. Businesses have been recommended to keep clean and sanitize deli areas thoroughly. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Source : Published on : October 3, 2024 Food poisoning, Outbreak, Infectious disease Mapping asthma hot spots: Uncovering urban trends and pandemic impacts in New York State Asthma, a chronic lung condition, can be managed through proper clinical care and self-management. The New York State Department of Health analyzed asthma-related emergency department (ED) visits from 2016 to 2022 using Esri’s Emerging Hot Spot Analysis. The study revealed urban areas like Buffalo, Rochester, and NYC had significant asthma hot spots , with ED rates decreasing during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels. While many persistent hot spots became sporadic, some areas in NYC, particularly in the Bronx and Manhattan, saw intensifying hot spots. This method enhances traditional mapping by identifying emerging geographic patterns and can be used to evaluate the impact of local-level interventions for asthma and other chronic conditions. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Source : Published on : October 3, 2024 Epidemiology, Chronic Respiratory Diseases, Asthma Closing the gaps: Improving quality of life for older adults with HIV A study using data from the Medical Monitoring Project (MMP) between 2017 and 2022 assessed quality of life (QoL) indicators among U.S. people living with HIV (PWH) aged ≥50 years. The study focused on five QoL indicators set by the National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) for 2025: self-rated health, access to mental health services, unemployment, food insecurity, and housing stability. Despite advances in HIV treatment, minimal progress was observed across most indicators. In 2022, only 65% of PWH aged ≥50 years reported good or better health, falling short of the 95% goal. Unmet need for mental health services rose to 21.5%, while unemployment decreased slightly from 11.7% to 8%. Hunger or food insecurity improved, particularly for those aged ≥65 years, meeting the 2025 target. However, housing instability remained a significant issue, with 12.5% of older PWH experiencing unstable housing, far from the 7.4% goal. The findings highlight the need for tailored interventions, focusing on mental health services, employment support, and housing stability to meet the NHAS 2025 goals. Multisectoral approaches and continued monitoring are essential to improving the overall QoL for older PWH. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Source : Published on : October 3, 2024 HIV/AIDS, Quality of Life, Infectious diseases The United States commitment to address the global Mpox outbreak The United States continues its global efforts to combat infectious diseases , including the ongoing Mpox outbreak. In 2022, the country responded swiftly to the spread of Mpox by improving access to vaccines, tests, and treatments both domestically and globally. A recent roundtable brought together global health leaders to enhance the response, especially in Africa. The U.S. has pledged $500 million and one million vaccine doses to support African nations in controlling the outbreak, aligning efforts with the Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan. Support includes training health workers, disease surveillance, and improving laboratory diagnostics. The US aims to foster partnerships with key institutions like the Africa CDC and WHO aim to build stronger health systems. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr Ghurumourthy The White House, United States Source : Published on : October 3, 2024 Global aids, International partnerships, Outbreak, Collaboration Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) 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 24-30th September, 2023 (5) View More 01-09th September, 2023 (11) View More 13 - 19 th August , 2024 (5) View More 23-31st July, 2023 (28) View More 17-23rd September, 2023 (10) View More 27-31st August, 2024 (16) View More 6-12th August, 2024 (16) View More 16-22nd July, 2023 (9) View More 10-16th September, 2023 (9) View More 20-26th August, 2024 (20) View More 1-6th August, 2023 (25) View More 1-8th July, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. 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113-Headlines of the day (List) Public Health News Snippets 17-23rd March 2025 Chinese scientists identify a new coronavirus strain in bats, similar to Covid-19 A study conducted by the Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China detected a strain of coronavirus named HKU5-CoV lineage 2 in bats . It belongs to the same group as the MERS-related coronavirus species of virus responsible for the Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak. The new virus detected was found to bind with human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors with a HKU5-CoV-2 receptor binding domain (RBD) and human ACE2 complex visualised by electron microscopy. This was a better adaptation as expressed by lineage 1 of the HKU5-CoV virus. Though the potential human spillover potential needs to be examined, the study underlines a strong mechanism for human infections and underlines the potential zoonotic risk for the organism. Content Editor: Dr Manu The Cell Journal Source : Published on : March 18, 2025 Coronavirus, Pandemic, Virology, Surveillance ICMR unveils findings on cancer incidence in India post-GLOBOCAN 2022 report A comprehensive-retrospective, cross-sectional study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently released its findings on the cancer incidence rates in India based on the 2022 report by the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) . Following are the salient findings - India lies third in the Southeast Asian region in terms of cancer incidence and third in absolute numbers incidence globally after the USA and China with the numbers to increase in the coming years as India undergoes a demographic shift with an increase in the middle-aged and geriatric population. The middle-aged and geriatric age groups account for the highest burden of cancer incidence and mortality with the minimum being in children and reproductive age cohorts. Meanwhile, cancer-related mortalities are expected to rise quicker in women than in men (1.2%-4.4% vs 1.2%-2.4% annual per cent change) The highest burden among women was caused by breast cancer (13.8%), followed by oral (10.3%) and cervical cancer (9.2%) . Meanwhile, among men , oral cancer (13%) had the highest burden, followed by respiratory (11.6%) and esophageal cancer (6.7%) . In light of these findings, the authors advise building a strong framework to support screening, diagnosis and treatment of this rising burden of cancers in the coming years that threatens to overwhelm the healthcare sector. Content Editor: Dr Manu The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia Source : Published on : March 18, 2025 Cancer, Mortality Rate, GLOBOCAN report, ICMR WHO designates a Collaborating Centre on artificial intelligence (AI) The World Health Organization (WHO ) acknowledges the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in various aspects of healthcare , including research, diagnosis, drug discovery, outbreak preparedness, clinical applications, and electronic health records. Committed to harnessing AI for innovation, equity, and ethical integrity, WHO has strengthened its collaboration with the D igital E thics C entre at the Delft University of Technology by designating it as a “Collaborating Centre on AI for Health Governance .” This Centre will support the WHO in developing guidelines and policies to promote the responsible and ethical use of AI in healthcare. Additionally, it will contribute to AI research in the health sector and provide expert insights to WHO. To facilitate the effective implementation of AI-related guidelines at the national level, the Digital Ethics Centre and its partners have established the “Responsible and Ethical AI for Healthcare Lab. ” Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala WHO news release Source : Published on : March 12, 2025 Artificial Intelligence, WHO, Ethics Second Ebola Death in Uganda Sparks Concerns over Surveillance and Containment A 4-year-old boy became the second Ebola fatality in Uganda, which is raising concerns regarding the containment of the outbreak. The boy passed away on February 25, 2025, in Kampala, after he was hospitalized, WHO reports. The first Ebola casualty was a male nurse who visited several facilities for treatment before passing away on January 30, 2025. Ugandan health authorities had been optimistic that the outbreak was subsiding following eight patients' recovery, but the new fatality undermines such optimism. Contact tracing continues to be crucial, particularly since no vaccines are approved for the Sudan strain of Ebola. More than 20,000 passengers are screened each day for Ebola at border crossings in Uganda, with WHO giving $3 million in assistance. Funding worries are raised because the U.S. government cancelled 60% of USAID contracts, affecting local public health initiatives. USAID contract funding of $27 million for Ebola surveillance was canceled, leaving 85 full-time workers affected. Uganda has previously experienced Ebola outbreaks, once in the year 2000 when an outbreak resulted in hundreds of deaths and again in 2022 that resulted in 55 deaths. Ebola is transmitted through body fluids and is thought to be caused by contact with infected animals or the consumption of raw meat. Other East African nations, Tanzania and Rwanda, have recently experienced outbreaks of similar hemorrhagic fevers such as Marburg. Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi PHC Editorial Bureau Source : Published on : March 11, 2025 Ebola, International health, Re-emerging diseases Strengthening Food Safety: National Consultation on Pesticide Residue Monitoring Union Minister Shri Prataprao Jadhav inaugurated the National Stakeholder Consultation on Pesticide Residues and emphasized the need for stricter monitoring and sustainable agricultural practices. The consultation, organized by FSSAI, focused on pesticide risks, regulatory challenges, and food safety . Discussions highlighted sustainable alternatives, such as bio-pesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Officials stressed the importance of robust surveillance and regulatory enforcement. They also emphasized the need to harmonize India’s M aximum R esidue L imits (MRLs ) with global standards. Enhancing farmer education and implementing digital traceability solutions were key priorities. It also focused on aligning with global food safety standards and promoting sustainable agriculture. Content Editor: Dr. Anamika Press Information Bureau, India Source : Published on : March 11, 2025 Food safety, monitoring, sustainable agriculture India’s Multi-Pronged Push for Cancer Care India is intensifying its fight against cancer with a focus on prevention, affordable treatment, and innovation. With over 14 lakh new cases reported in 2023, the government has rolled out robust policies, budget allocations, and global partnerships to strengthen oncology infrastructure and ensure equitable access to care. Key Highlights Budget Boost: ₹99,858.56 crore allocated for health, including 200 Day Care Cancer Centres and customs duty exemptions on 36 lifesaving drugs. Infrastructure Expansion: 19 State Cancer Institutes, 20 Tertiary Care Centres, and 770 District NCD (Non Communicable Disease) Clinics established under NP-NCD (N ational P rogramme for P revention and C ontrol of N on C ommunicable D iseases) for early detection of oral, breast, and cervical cancers. Financial Aid: Ayushman Bharat covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgeries, while HMCPF provides up to ₹15 lakh for BPL patients. Innovation: Launch of NexCAR19 , India’s first indigenous CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T) cell therapy, and the Q uad C ancer M oonshot initiative to eliminate cervical cancer . Awareness: National campaigns like Eat Right India and Fit India promote healthy lifestyles, while Ayushman Aarogya Mandirs drive grassroots awareness. India’s cancer care framework integrates policy, finance, and innovation, yet challenges in rural access and early detection persist. Sustained efforts aim to build an inclusive, cancer-free future. Content Editor: Dr. Shayari Press Information Bureau, India Source : Published on : March 11, 2025 Non-Communicable Disease, Cancer Care Bihar Sets Benchmark with Innovative Initiatives Under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Bihar is driving transformative change under the B eti B achao B eti P adhao (BBBP ) scheme, implementing groundbreaking initiatives to promote gender equality and empower girls . These efforts are now being recognized as "Best Practices." Key Initiatives: Kishanganj – Sports for Empowerment: Over 500 girls participated in a multi-sport event featuring Kabaddi, Badminton, and Athletics. Led by the District Magistrate and local officials, the initiative emphasized academic and athletic excellence, while awareness drives highlighted government schemes for girls. Araria – Tackling School Dropouts: Adolescent groups under the M ahadalit V ikas M ission launched a door-to-door campaign, successfully re-enrolling 21 girls in school. This model, now expanded district-wide, aims to bridge gender gaps in education. Nawada – Skill Development for Marginalized Girls: A pilot program under the B ihar S kill D evelopment M ission enabled five Mahadalit girls to enroll in Emergency Medical Technician training—a first in their communities. Parental counseling and exposure visits played a key role in encouraging participation. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering community-driven solutions, Bihar’s BBBP initiatives are setting a statewide blueprint for women’s empowerment and gender equality. Content Editor: Dr. Shayari Press Information Bureau, India Source : Published on : March 11, 2025 Women Empowerment Karnataka to allow terminally ill patients the right to die with dignity On 30th January 2025, Karnataka became the second state in India , after Kerala, to implement the Supreme Court’s order to allow terminally ill patients the right to die with dignity by withdrawing or withholding life-sustaining treatment . This will help those with no hope of recovery or those who are in a persistent vegetative state and where the patient no longer benefits from life-sustaining treatment. Background- On January 24, 2023, the Supreme Court, in its judgment, said the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution encompassed the right to die with dignity. The salient points of this order are as follows - A patient can make an advanced directive or living will stating the kind of treatment they wish to receive and avoid. They can also nominate two people to make decisions on their behalf if they are incapacitated. Of such patients, those patients who are terminally ill and undergoing prolonged medical treatment with no hope of recovery and no decision-making capacity can have their life-supporting treatment withheld or withdrawn after the following conditions are fulfilled - The decision has to be certified by two medical boards (primary and secondary) formed at the treating hospital: The first board will comprise three registered medical practitioners (RMPs), which can be a neurologist, neurosurgeon, surgeon, and anesthetist or intensivist approved by an appropriate authority. The second board will comprise an RMP nominated by the District Health Officer -They will take the decision after obtaining consent from the patient’s next of kin or the person(s) mentioned in the advanced directive. Two copies of the decision will be sent to the Judicial Magistrate of First Class (JFMC) , who will then send a copy to the Registrar of the High Court for the record. Content Editor: Dr Manu Karnataka Government, Health Department Circular Source : Published on : March 7, 2025 Euthanasia, Living Will, Right to Life and Personal Liberty, Right to Dignity ICMR calls for companies to develop typhoid and paratyphoid vaccines. A study found a national incidence of around 360 typhoid cases per 100,000 people, translating to approximately 4.5 million cases annually. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) released an Expression of Interest (EoI) for companies to help validate and commercialise a new vaccine candidate developed by the National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections (ICMR-NIRBI), Kolkata (erstwhile ICMR-NICED) that may help tackle enteric fever caused by both Salmonella typhi and S. paratyphi A . Key features of the technology include: Isolation and Characterization of OMVs: Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMVs) were isolated from Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi A. These OMVs were comprehensively characterized to identify associated antigens, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Vi-polysaccharide. Immunization and Immune Response: Adult mice were immunized orally with three doses of the bivalent OMV-based immunogen (25 μg/200 μl). The immunization induced robust humoral responses, including significant serum IgG levels against LPS and Vi-polysaccharide. It activated specific immune cell populations, such as CD4+, CD8+, and CD19+ cells, in the spleen of immunized mice. The vaccine also stimulated Th1 and Th17 cell-mediated immune responses. Protective Efficacy: Immunization with the bivalent OMVs provided protection against systemic infection caused by lethal doses of heterologous Salmonella strains in adult mice models. The protective effect was found to be mediated by a combination of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses. Novel Mechanism of Protection: Anti-OMVs antibodies generated through immunization significantly inhibited bacterial motility and their ability to penetrate mucin layers. This new candidate vaccine is considered superior to the current typhoid conjugate and Vi-polysaccharide based vaccines, as the latter only protect against enteric fever caused by S. typhi strains. The EoI now calls for companies to partner with ICMR on validating these results through vaccine trials and help develop and commercialise vaccines for use. ICMR will provide funding and technical support through expert guidance for the same. Content Editor: Dr Manu Indian Council of Medical Research, Expression of Interest Source : Published on : March 7, 2025 Vaccine Development, ICMR, Vaccine Trial, Typhoid Vaccine Government Strengthens Cancer Care Through Ayushman Bharat and AMRIT Pharmacies With cancer incidence in India rising to 1.45 million new cases annually, the need for localised and accessible care has never been greater. To address this, the Indian government is strengthening affordable cancer treatment through the A yushman B harat i nsurance s cheme, which covers 219 treatment packages, ensuring timely access to care. Additionally, AMRIT pharmacies are making 289 oncology drugs more accessible by offering them at up to 50% lower prices, easing the financial burden on patients. Recognizing the growing complexity of cancer treatment, ₹3,000 crore has been invested in 19 state cancer institutes and 20 tertiary care centers, enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities nationwide. Further, to reduce the need for long-distance travel, the government has announced the establishment of 200 cancer daycare centres at district hospitals. Content Editor: Dr M Kasif Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : March 7, 2025 Cancer, NPNCD, Ayushman Bharat, AIIMS NGT and UPPCB row over Ganga Water Quality Concerns at Maha Kumbh 2025 A recent National Green Tribunal report from Uttar Pradesh has raised alarm bells over the Ganga’s water quality ahead of the Maha Kumbh Mela. Findings reveal that the river water fails to meet the safety standards established by the C entral P ollution C ontrol B oard, with exceptionally high levels of faecal coliform bacteria detected. While some parameters remain within acceptable limits, the elevated bacterial contamination poses significant health risks for devotees and participants. The report urges authorities to adopt stringent remedial measures and continuous monitoring to ensure safe water conditions during the mega event. Experts emphasize the need for immediate pollution control interventions to restore the river’s ecological balance and protect public health. Content Editor: PHC Editor National Green Tribunal Source : Published on : February 27, 2025 Ganga water quality, NGT report, Maha Kumbh, CPCB, faecal coliform Selenium-Contaminated Wheat Linked to Baldness in Buldhana Dr Himmatrao Bawaskar, a Padma awardee physician, led a month-long investigation into a sudden outbreak of severe hair loss in Buldhana. It was found that wheat from Punjab , supplied to ration shops in Buldhana, contained dangerously high levels of selenium . Excessive selenium intake is linked to widespread baldness observed among residents. Experts revealed that the risk was further intensified by low zinc levels in individuals, a deficiency known to worsen hair loss. The incident has prompted investigations into the supply chain and quality control measures at local ration shops. Health officials are urging immediate testing and nutritional interventions to mitigate further health impacts. The case highlights the urgent need for stringent monitoring of food quality in public distribution systems . Ongoing investigation aims to clarify the impact and prevent future occurrences of similar issues. Content Editor: PHC Editor Indian Council of Medical Research Source : Published on : February 27, 2025 Selenium, Wheat, Zinc, Baldness, Heavy-Metal Poisoning "India's Path to Sustainable Growth: Highlights from the Economic Survey 2024-25" India’s vision for inclusive and sustainable development aligns with its ambition of becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047 , as highlighted in the Economic Survey 2024-25. Efficient coal use, advanced thermal power technologies, and nuclear energy are emphasized. India is progressing towards its NDC targets , achieving 46.8% installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources . Net-zero emissions by 2070 require grid improvements, critical minerals, and climate finance support. Mission LiFE promotes mindful consumption, waste management, circular economy, and pro-environment behaviours. Content Editor: Dr Anamika Press Information Bureau of India Source : Published on : March 2, 2025 Sustainable development, renewable energy, climate resilience Economic Survey 2024-25: Mental Well-Being Key to Productivity and Growth The Economic Survey 2024-25 defines mental well-being as critical for navigating challenges and maintaining productivity. It highlights the impact of lifestyle choices, workplace culture, and family dynamics on mental health and economic productivity. The rising mental health issues among youth are linked to excessive internet and social media use. Regular consumption of junk food (HFSS), lack of exercise, and weak family connections worsen mental well-being. Hostile work cultures and long desk hours are identified as detrimental to mental health and economic growth. The Survey calls for school, family, and societal interventions to improve mental health outcomes and ensure sustainable economic growth. Content Editor: Dr Anamika Press Information Bureau of India Source : Published on : March 1, 2025 Mental Well-Being, Productivity, Economic Growth Guillain Barre Syndrome outbreak reaches Telangana Telangana reported its first case of Guillain Barre syndrome, currently affecting multiple states in India, when a 25-year-old woman from the Siddipet district was admitted to a private institution, KIMS Hospital in Hyderabad . This marks the first case reported from the state. The patient was initially treated at another hospital for a week before she was shifted due to her worsening condition. Doctors state that her condition is critical, and she is currently on ventilator support . The patient had no history of travel to Pune or any family history of similar illnesses. Content Editor: Dr Manu PHC Editorial Bureau Source : Published on : February 21, 2025 Outbreak, Surveillance, Guillain Barre Syndrome Reforming Labour Laws for Better Mental Well-being The Union Budget 2025-26 allocated ₹99,858.56 crore to MoH&FW, including ₹79.6 crore for Tele MANAS and increased NIMHANS funding . Despite this, blue-collar workers remain underserved due to policy gaps, unsafe work conditions, and stigma. Unlike corporate employees, they struggle to access mental health support due to job insecurity, long hours, and hazardous workplaces. The OSHWC Code (2020) covers only physical safety , while the CSC Code (2020) fails to recognize mental illness as an occupational disease , limiting compensation. With a 70-92% treatment gap, low-income workers are most affected. Labour laws must integrate mental health , ensuring compensation for work-related illness. Employers must regulate work hours, enforce mental health policies and promote Tele MANAS and counseling services. Expanding legal protections, employer accountability, and awareness will create safer, healthier workplaces for all. Content Editor: Dr M Kasif PHC Editorial Bureau Source : Published on : February 21, 2025 Mental health, SDG 3, Labour laws, Occupational health Need for New Law- For manufactured chemicals in protecting children’s health Safeguarding children’s health against synthetic chemicals requires a fundamental shift in chemical law to take a precautionary approach over unconstrained production. Fewer than 20% chemicals have been tested for toxicity, and it’s still fewer when it comes to toxic effects in infants and children. Unlike pharmaceuticals, synthetic chemicals have little assessment for health impacts and almost no post-marketing surveillance for long-term adverse effects. Most synthetic chemicals and products are produced from fossil fuels such as gas, oil and coal. Yet, they are subjected to few legal or policy constraints. There was a 50-fold increase since 1950, and it is projected to triple again by 2050 , which has led to widespread human exposure and environmental pollution, too. Association between chemicals and disease in children continue to rise with distressing frequency, with still many additional diseases undiscovered. Content Editor: Dr Soundhar The New England Journal of Medicine Source : Published on : February 20, 2025 Children’s health, environmental health, Health policy Obesity and it’s association with climate change According to researchers, in developing countries with a rise of 10 degrees C, there was a rise of 4% in the BMI of children and a 2% rise in BMI in women . It stated that BMI tends to increase at both low and high temperatures as there was a U-shaped relation between temperature and BMI. Impact of temperature on obesity is a long-term outcome, which also makes people to stay indoors and which in turn, leads to reduced physical inactivity . According to a 2019 Lancet commission report, climate change impacts plants’ protein and micronutrient content too, as elevated carbon dioxide levels have shown to reduce concentration in wheat, rice, potato, etc., by 10-15%. When people spend less time in cool temperatures, the body’s need for adaptive thermogenesis reduces, leading to less demand for energy, ultimately leading to obesity. According to the American Heart Association review of studies from 28 countries, today’s children are 15% less physically fit than their parents at the same age. Content Editor: Dr Soundhar JOHNS HOPKINS BLOOMBERG SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH-GLOBAL HEALTH NOW Source : Published on : February 20, 2025 Climate change, obesity, global health, child health Report addressing misinformation about science Research on misinformation is being done in many disciplines, with each offering its definitions. It’s also important to note that the claims that are tagged as misinformation can evolve over time as new evidence accumulates. There are many sources of misinformation, and sometimes misinformation may be unintentional too. So, most of the work on the impact of misinformation focused on harm to individuals and much less to society. Intervention should be designed along four points, which resupply, demand, distribution and uptake , though most of the evidence comes from intervention on uptake of misinformation. Attention needs to be given to institutional aspects and to build capacity and capability to generate accurate information and to increase its supply, then to focus on censoring inaccurate information. Content Editor: Dr Soundhar HARVARD T.H.CHAN school Of Public Health Source : Published on : February 19, 2025 Misinformation, Health Policy, Health Research To focus on healthy habits instead of quick fixes for a longer life It was suggested that maintaining a healthy weight across life stages is critical for healthy aging and for improving both lifespan and health span . There were other science-backed strategies mentioned in the article such as dietary pattern which is high in healthy fats and vegetables and low in processed foods and sugar and to avoid smoking. It was also noted there was an association with weight loss and physical activity with the reduced chronic disease risk. So, Experts quoted in the article that focusing on sustainable changes such as making switching to making gradual healthier food based on personal and cultural factors and to find small opportunities for movement over course of the day. Content Editor: Dr Soundhar Harvard T.H. CHAN School of Public Health Source : Published on : February 19, 2025 Healthy aging, Diet habits, Lifestyle changes ‘Hospital at home’ Programs remain concentrated in larger, urban Not-for-profit and academic hospitals The ‘Hospital-at-home’ program was adopted from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS ) which was established in November 2020 allows hospitals to deliver care to patients in their own homes instead of traditional admission in hospital in case of acute illness. In the cross-sectional analysis of short-term acute care hospitals in the United States, the study compared hospitals that applied waivers between November 2022 and December 2022 (pre-extension hospitals) and those after that (post-extension hospitals). Study found that adoption of waiver remained concentrated in urban, not-for-profit and academic hospitals. Study implicated that if CMS wants to expand the reach of Hospital-at-Home, then work must be done to ensure and incorporate rural and non-teaching hospitals. It indicates that these types of hospitals are not seeking to create these programs on their own, because of resources involved in it to sustain their operation. Content Editor: Dr Soundhar Los Angeles Health Sciences Source : Published on : February 18, 2025 Health Program, International health, Health innovations WHOs Multi-Country Report : Mpox Ouutbreak WHO’s Multi-country External Situation Report No. 45 (January 11, 2025) outlines the ongoing global Mpox outbreak with a focus on clade Ib MPXV. In central Africa, the DRC, Burundi, and Uganda remain key hotspots, with community transmission and weekly case numbers of 100–200. For instance, the DRC recorded 2,464 cases (5 deaths) over six weeks, while Uganda and Burundi reported significant numbers, although December festivities likely reduced surveillance. Internationally, travel-associated cases emerged in 11 non-African countries, including instances in Germany, the UK, China, and others, with some countries like Tanzania and the UAE suspected of undetected spread. The report differentiates clade dynamics : clade Ia in the DRC is zoonotic but now increasingly human-transmitted ; clade Ib is spreading rapidly via human contact ; clade IIa is newly observed in West Africa; and clade IIb continues at low levels globally, primarily among MSM. Africa saw 14,700 cases (66 deaths) over one year amid shifting demographics. WHO emphasizes bolstering surveillance, vaccination (87,000 doses in the DRC, 4.83 million doses for 2025), and cross-border collaboration , deeming clades Ib and Ia high risk. Additionally, ongoing trials indicate limited efficacy of tecovirimat for mild cases, prompting updated infection prevention protocols and expanded decentralized testing in resource-constrained areas. Content Editor: Dr Chinmay World Health Organization Source : Published on : February 18, 2025 Mpox, WHO report, Outbreak Health concerns rise as two die from suspected Guillain Barre syndrome in Kolkata The West Bengal Health Department confirmed the deaths of two individuals aged 10 and 17 years to be due to Guillain Barre syndrome (GBS ). The first individual was a 17 year old adolescent from the North 24 Paraganas District. Though he passed away due to septic shock and myocarditis at NRS Medical College, Kolkata, doctors suspect that GBS was the underlying disease. The 10 year old child was admitted to BC Roy Hospital who hailed from Jagatdal in the North 24 Paraganas district. He died after receiving treatment for a week. On 29th January, a 48 year old man visited Dhaniakhali, Hooghly with symptoms of diarrhea for the past 4 days along with lower limb paralysis. He was put on oxygen due to respiratory issues, but was declared dead on arrival to Kolkata Medical college . The doctors suspected GBS in the case. This outbreak in Kolkata follows the outbreak in Pune affecting more than 100 people and is suspected to be due to contaminated water sources . Content Editor: Dr. Manu PHC Editorial Bureau Source : Published on : February 4, 2025 Outbreak, Surveillance, Guillain Barre Syndrome U.S. to Withdraw From WHO Over Alleged Bias and Funding Disparities President Donald Trump declared that the United States would exit from the World Health Organization (WHO ) within 12 months of January 20, 2025, citing concerns over its political influence and financial structure. Trump accused the WHO of acting under the “inappropriate political influence” of certain member states, particularly China. He claimed the organization mishandled global health crises, including COVID-19, by failing to act independently. The U.S., contributing 18% of WHO’s $6.8 billion budget, was its largest financial backer. Trump has criticized the unequal financial burden on the United States of America. This decision mirrors Trump’s attempt in 2020 to withdraw, citing similar concerns. The WHO denies allegations of bias and continues pressing China for data pertaining to the origin of COVID-19. The U.S. exit raises concerns about future global health funding and cooperation. Content Editor: Dr Mohammed Kasif PHC Editorial Bureau Source : Published on : February 4, 2025 Global health, Health funding, Pandemic response, World Health Organisation Targeted nutritional support to affected households can avert ~400,000 TB deaths by 2035 A recent modelling study conducted by researchers from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London and Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore; published in Lancet Global health, has evaluated the cost-effectiveness of nutritional support for TB households in conjunction with impact of the intervention on further transmission of TB . The study estimated that about 900,000 TB episodes and around 400,000 fatalities can be prevented if India can implement nutritional support for all household contacts of TB patients in at least 50% of families where people are undergoing treatment for tuberculosis from 2023 to 2035. These figures correspond to preventing 2·2% (2·1–2·4) of all TB cases and 4·6% (4·2–5·5) of all TB fatalities. This proposed intervention would cost the nation around Rs.15k per DALYs prevented . The study also estimated that on the contrary nutritional support to only the patient undergoing TB treatment can avert 46700 new cases and 234,300 TB fatalities . Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. KH Reddy The Lancet Global Health Source : Published on : January 31, 2025 Tuberculosis, Infectious disease modelling, Nutrition, Health economics Pune Battles a Surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome Cases The Pune Municipal Corporation, the Pimpri-Chinchiwad Municipal Corporation , and a few adjoining districts of Pune , Maharashtra, have reported about 127 cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS ), with two suspected deaths and 20 patients on ventilators as of 30 January 2025. GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves, causing muscle weakness, numbness, and paralysis. Though its exact cause is unclear, it often follows viral or bacterial infections . The condition is more common in adults and males , with an incidence of 1–2 per 100,000 population. With cases rising, strengthened surveillance , early detection , and public awareness are crucial in managing the outbreak of GBS. The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has deployed a team to assess the outbreak, while local health officials have surveyed over 25,500 households in affected areas. Postmortem and microbiological tests are being conducted to confirm the cause of death. Following this, local authorities have sent samples to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV ) for further analysis. Content Editor: Dr. Mohammed Kasif Social Trends Source : Published on : January 30, 2025 Disease outbreak, Auto-immune disorder, Surveillance Pakistan detects the nation’s first Mpox case in 2025 The first case of Mpox in 2025 in Pakistan was detected at Peshawar airport in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. A 35-year-old man traveling from Dubai has been identified as the patient. The patient had reported symptoms of the disease and a recent travel history of visiting the Gulf countries . He was then transferred to the Police Services Hospital, where his samples were sent to the Public Health Reference Lab. His diagnosis was thus confirmed. The passenger’s flight details were also sent to the Peshawar Airport Manager to initiate contact tracing among the passengers of the same flight as the index case. This marks the 10th case of Mpox in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, with two cases seen in 2023, seven in 2024, and now one in 2025. Content Editor: Dr. Manu Social Trends Source : Published on : January 30, 2025 Outbreak, Surveillance, Mpox Outbreak due to unidentified toxic agent impacts Rajouri District in Jammu and Kashmir An outbreak that affected the Badhaal village in Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir led to 17 deaths, with over 38 people affected since December 2024. It has led to a multi-sectoral response by the State and Union governments to curb the outbreak. A Special Investigation Team (SIT ) led by the State police and supported by experts from the National Institute of Virology (NIV ), Pune, PGIMER Chandigarh, AIIMS, New Delhi, and National Centres for Disease Control (NCDC ), New Delhi was formed to investigate the possible causes. This was supplemented by an inter-ministerial team of experts from the M inistry of H ealth and F amily W elfare, the M inistry of A griculture & F armers’ W elfare, the M inistry of C hemicals and F ertilisers, and the M inistry of J al S hakti. Steps undertaken to control the outbreak - Active door-to-door surveillance has been carried out to screen residents for similar symptoms of high fever, body ache, vomiting, and unconsciousness , with 230 residents quarantined. Meanwhile, the police had also disallowed residents from drawing water from nearby wells and community feasting. Food is being supplied by the government under strict supervision. It seems to have been caused by an as-yet unidentified toxin . However, based on the symptoms, a neurotoxin is suspected after tests have turned out to be negative for all viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. The search for the cause continues as rising deaths have led to the cancellation of leaves for healthcare staff in the district. Content Editor: Dr. Manu Social Trends Source : Published on : January 29, 2025 Outbreak Investigation, Epidemiology Empowering Sustainability: Remarkable Growth in India’s Renewable Energy Sector Non-Fossil Fuel Capacity: Total capacity, including nuclear energy reached 211.36 GW Solar Power: Showed the highest growth, with an increase of 20.1 GW (27.9%), rising from 72.02 GW to 92.12 GW and a total capacity of 250.57 GW when considering projects underway or tendered. Wind Energy: Grew by 7.8% rising from 44.29GW to 47.72GW Renewable Energy: Between April and October 2024, India added 12.6 GW of renewable energy capacity with 1.72GW added in October alone. Hydro and Nuclear Power: Hydropower contributed to 46.93 GW, while nuclear power accounted for 8.18 GW of the renewable energy mix. The expansion of renewable energy projects under implementation and tendered further accelerates India’s transition towards clean energy, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development. Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : January 29, 2025 Environment, Non fossil fuels, Fossil fuels, Sustainability Return of fluorosis in Nalgonda sparks concerns Following reports of cases of dental fluorosis detected in Marriguda Mandal of Nalgonda District, Hyderabad , the Department of Medicine and Health, Karnataka launched a household survey to identify cases of fluorosis in the district. Conducted by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), it was a door to door, household survey that covered over 34,800 contacts that tried to identify fluorosis symptoms in elderly and children . Over 100-150 cases of dental fluorosis and multiple cases of skeletal fluorosis were identified in the target age groups. This suggests a risk of relapse of fluorosis in a region that was free from the burden since 2020. The Nalgonda district has historically suffered from this scourge with over 1180 mandals affected. Mission Bhagirathi , launched in 2015 by the previous Karnataka government to supply potable water via taps was a successful initiative that ended the spread of cases. Authorities and activists have blamed faulty management of the water supply along with a use of groundwater rich in fluoride by reverse osmosis(RO) plants that led to consumption of rice and vegetables contaminated with fluoride rich water. In response, the government will analyze the survey data and plan further implementation of corrective measures. Content Editor: Dr. Manu District Flouride Monitoring Committee, Government of Telangana Source : Published on : January 28, 2025 Nutrition, Surveys, Water Pollution, Fluorosis Innovative Mango-flavored Tablet Shows Promise in Combating Intestinal Worm Infections A randomized trial published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases revealed that a mango-flavored tablet combining ivermectin and albendazole is more effective against soil-transmitted helminth (STH ) infections, especially Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), than albendazole alone. The study, involving 1,001 children in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Mozambique, showed cure rates of 97.2% for a three-dose regimen (FDCx3) and 82.9% for a single dose (FDCx1) , compared to 35.9% for albendazole alone . The treatment was safe, with mild gastrointestinal side effects resolving within 48 hours, and was well-accepted by children for its taste, smell, and texture. The fixed-dose combination (FDC ) also holds promise for treating Strongyloides stercoralis , which is resistant to albendazole but responsive to ivermectin. Researchers believe this FDC could enhance STH control efforts, supporting mass de-worming programs and individual treatments, potentially redefining global elimination goals. Further studies are planned to evaluate its broader implementation in endemic regions Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay Lancet Source : Published on : January 28, 2025 Randomised Control Trial, Infectious Disease, New Drug, International Health News Marburg Virus Outbreak Suspected in Tanzania: WHO Issues Regional Alert The WHO has reported a suspected Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania’s Kagera region, which experienced a similar outbreak in 2023. As of January 11, nine suspected cases, including eight deaths, have been identified. With healthcare workers among those affected, it underscores the risk of transmission in medical settings. Patients displayed symptoms like fever, headache, muscle pain, and bloody vomiting . Samples from two cases are under testing, with results pending. Kagera, near Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, is a transit hub, raising concerns about cross-border spread . The WHO rates the risk to Tanzania and the region as high due to the virus’s lethality and unknown origin but considers global risk low . No approved vaccines or treatments exist, complicating containment efforts. Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) Source : Published on : January 27, 2025 Marburg virus, International Health News, Viral Hemorrhagic Fever WHO Reports New Marburg Virus Outbreak in Tanzania’s Kagera Region The World Health Organization (WHO ) has announced a suspected Marburg virus outbreak in Tanzania's Kagera region, which had previously experienced an outbreak in 2023. On January 10, the WHO was informed of six suspected cases, five of them fatal, showing symptoms of viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF ), including headache, fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, and vomiting with blood. By January 11, the number of suspected cases had risen to nine , with eight fatalities. Health workers are among the suspected cases, highlighting the risk of transmission in healthcare settings. Although there is no approved treatment or vaccine for Marburg virus, an investigational vaccine was used in Rwanda's 2023 outbreak to protect health workers. Due to its high fatality rate , infections among health workers and the virus’s unclear source, the WHO has assessed the risk to Tanzania as high. Kagera’s location as a transit hub with significant cross-border movement adds to the regional risk. However, the global risk remains low , as Kagera is not near major international airports. Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) Source : Published on : January 18, 2025 Outbreak, Viral Haemorrhagic Fever From Heatwaves to Waistlines: The Climate-Obesity Relationship Climate change is emerging to be a contributor to obesity, which is also driven by a complex mix of genetic, behavioral, and social factors. Rising temperatures impact behavior, leading to reduced physical activity and changes in diet, especially in developing countries. Research studies found that a 1°C increase in temperature was linked to a 4% rise in children's BMI and a 2% increase in women's BMI . The studies showed a U-shaped relationship between temperature and BMI meaning higher rates of obesity at both high and low temperatures. Extreme heat also has long-term consequences, causing people to stay indoors and rely on more calorie-dense, processed foods due to higher agricultural prices and lower crop yields. The nutritional content of crops are also affected as climate change causes decrease in protein levels in staples like rice and wheat. Rising temperatures further affect obesity by decreasing energy expenditure through adaptive thermogenesis, a process that helps regulate body temperature. To combat these effects, experts emphasize solutions like increased physical education in schools and climate-resilient agricultural practices to improve nutrition and prevent obesity. Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Source : Published on : January 18, 2025 Climate Change, Obesity From Poverty Reduction to TB Control: The Success of Brazil’s Bolsa Família Program A landmark study conducted by Jesus GS, Pinto PFPS, Silva AF et al. involving 54.5 million low-income Brazilians demonstrated that conditional cash transfer programs like Brazil’s Bolsa Família Program (BFP) can help achieve global tuberculosis (TB) targets. Implemented in 2004, the BFP provides financial support to poor families on the condition that they meet specific health and education requirements. The study analyzed TB incidence, mortality, and case fatality rates between 2004 and 2015, comparing BFP beneficiaries (23.9 million) with non-beneficiaries (30.6 million). Results showed a significant reduction in TB cases and deaths among beneficiaries , with a more than 50% decrease in extremely poor individuals and 60% among indigenous populations. The improved access to food , reducing food insecurity and malnutrition —a key TB risk factor—was identified as a major reason for these outcomes. The study underscores the role of social protection programs in reducing TB burden , highlighting their potential to support global health goals, including the END-TB strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals . Content Editor: Dr. Subhana Siyad Barcelona Institute for Global Health ISGlobal Source : Published on : January 18, 2025 Cash Transfer, Tuberculosis Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) 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 24-30th September, 2023 (5) View More 01-09th September, 2023 (11) View More 13 - 19 th August , 2024 (5) View More 23-31st July, 2023 (28) View More 17-23rd September, 2023 (10) View More 27-31st August, 2024 (16) View More 6-12th August, 2024 (16) View More 16-22nd July, 2023 (9) View More 10-16th September, 2023 (9) View More 20-26th August, 2024 (20) View More 1-6th August, 2023 (25) View More 1-8th July, 2023 (5) View More Subscribe to get Latest Public Health Updates SUBSCRIBE

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) 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 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

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) 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 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

WASH and Health at United Nations Water Conference WASH and Health at United Nations Water Conference Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala Maiti March 24, 2023 WHO News section Global Health, Water Sanitation, Hygiene Approximately 2 billion people lack safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion people use poor sanitary services. With the increase in preventable illnesses due to poor WASH facilities; the rise in cholera outbreaks in recent times, WHO and UNICEF have come up with the United Nations Water Conference in New York from 22- 24 March 2023 . The conference will focus on the impact of safely managed water supply, sanitation, and proper hygiene on health. The event will explore ways in which WASH and health sectors can work to bridge the gap and coordinate toward development in their fields. The meeting proceedings will be presented at the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF).

Public Health Daily News Snippets WHO Bulletin Releases Special Edition on Traditional Medicine Ahead of Global Summit The WHO Bulletin published its first special issue on traditional medicine since 1977, featuring research and policy analyses. This release precedes the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine scheduled for December 2025 in New Delhi. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health, Traditional Medicine Integration Read More Global Summit in Geneva Intensified Efforts to Curb Toxic Mercury Pollution A major international conference was held in Geneva from 3rd to 7th November 2025 to strengthen the global fight against mercury pollution . Delegates collaborated to accelerate the phase-out of this toxic metal from products and industrial processes, aiming to protect human health and the environment. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : United Nations Environmental Health, International Policy Read More Fitness & Nation-Building: Insights from the National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 The first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 in Mumbai brought together policymakers, athletes, and industry leaders to reaffirm one message: India’s progress towards becoming a Viksit Bharat by 2047 depends on how seriously we take fitness today. With icons from sports and cinema joining the conversation, the conclave highlighted fitness as both a cultural shift and a public health necessity. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fit India Movement, Physical Activity, Non-Communicable Diseases, Viksit Bharat Read More Global Evidence Review of the Inequality- Pandemic Cycle: UNAIDS report The UNAIDS established the “Global Council on Inequality, AIDS and Pandemic ” in 2023. Its report “Breaking the inequality-pandemic cycle ” released in November 2025 is based on evidence from more than 1500 peer-reviewed literature and reports from government agencies and research institutions across multiple pandemics and its own empirical studies over the past 2 years. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), 2025 Pandemic preparedness, Social inequality, Global Health Read More Decomposition Analysis of Factors Driving Global Maternal Mortality Reduction A new Lancet Global Health paper highlights evidence that combining family planning with quality maternity services has driven a 41% global decline in maternal deaths since 2000. The study shows how contraception alone prevented more than 77,000 maternal deaths in 2023. Published on : Friday, November 28, 2025 Source : The Lancet Global Health Maternal Health, Reproductive & Sexual Health, Gender Equality, Family Planning, Declining Global Maternal Mortality Read More Delhi’s Air Quality Sees Noticeable Improvement: CAQM 2025 Report The 2025 update from the C ommission for A ir Q uality M anagement (CAQM ) highlights significant enhancements in Delhi's air quality and a marked reduction in stubble-burning incidents in nearby states. The report offers data-backed evidence of collaborative efforts to reduce pollution through the use of cleaner fuels, improved waste management, and more stringent regulatory measures. Published on : Tuesday, November 18, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Air Pollution, Environmental Health, Public Health Policy Read More Genomic Collaboration for a Safer Future: India and Italy Unite for Pandemic Preparedness The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) round table in New Delhi emphasized the power of genomic research and collaboration in strengthening pandemic preparedness. Experts called for sustained global surveillance and rapid translation of genomic data to safeguard public health. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : Press Information Bureau, New Delhi Genomic Surveillance, Pandemic Readiness Read More WHO Unveils Global Agenda to Strengthen Paediatric Clinical Trials The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global research agenda to close gaps in evidence on child health. It prioritizes equitable, high-impact paediatric trials to ensure that treatments for children are safe, effective, and grounded in sound science. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Health Research, Pediatric Health, Clinical Trials Read More WHO refutes Tylenol-Autism Link: Urges Evidence-Based Care A statement by the current US President, which linked Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism, prompted an immediate response from the World Health Organization. The WHO clarified that no scientific evidence supports this claim and urged reliance on medical guidance. Published on : Friday, November 14, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Maternal and Child Health, Health Communication, Global Health Governance Read More 2025 Lancet Countdown Report on Climate Change and Health Impacts of climate inaction have led to a 23% increase in heat-related deaths since the 1990s. Food insecurity affected 124 million more people due to extreme weather in 2023, with losses reaching $1.35 trillion. Addressing climate change has prevented 160,000 premature deaths from coal pollution and supported 16 million jobs in renewable energy. With COP30 ahead, WHO, along with member states, plans to emphasize climate action and a swift transition away from fossil fuels. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Climate change, food insecurity, Sustainability Read More WHO Introduces New Global Framework to Enhance National Health Emergency Response The World Health Organization has unveiled a new global guide, the National Health Emergency Alert and Response Framework, to bolster countries' readiness for health crises. Developed from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides a standardized approach for managing emergencies. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : World Health Organization Global Health Security, Emergency Preparedness Read More Training Modules to Strengthen Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Response in India The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced three specialized training modules to enhance India’s capacity for managing chemical emergencies. This initiative aims to build a skilled, coordinated response system across healthcare and disaster management sectors. Published on : Friday, November 7, 2025 Source : PIB Delhi Chemical Emergencies Preparedness, IHR, Disaster management Read More Daily News Snippets Monthly Archives 01-10 February, 2024 View More 14-20 January, 2024 View More 19-25th November, 2024 (26) View More 23-31stOctober, 2023 (18) 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 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

CDC Panel Urges Shift to Thimerosal-Free Flu Vaccines Amid Safety Reassurance Content Editor: Dr. Sampriti July 7, 2025 at 5:41:50 PM International Health News, Vaccines On June 26, 2025, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the CDC voted 5-1 in favor of recommending that everyone in the United States aged 6 months and older receive a yearly flu shot. They also advised opting for thimerosal-free vaccines whenever feasible. Thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative used in multi-dose vaccine vials, has been under scrutiny since 1999 when federal agencies recommended its removal from most childhood vaccines as a precaution, despite no evidence of harm at low doses . Currently, the majority of flu vaccines in the U.S. are thimerosal-free, with single-dose pre-filled syringes widely accessible. The ACIP's recommendation is largely symbolic , aimed at addressing public concerns and reducing vaccine hesitancy. The CDC maintains that thimerosal is safe , highlighting that scientific studies have found no link between thimerosal in vaccines and health risks. Previous Next