Mysterious Illness Sparks Public Health Crisis in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Mysterious Illness Sparks Public Health Crisis in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Content Editor: Dr M Kasif May 19, 2025 The Guardian One health, Outbreak Investigation, Disease Surveillance Health workers in the DRC have reported a mysterious illness that has killed over 50 people in five weeks. The outbreak, linked to children who ate a bat, has spread across Équateur province. By March 4, around 1,300 cases and 50 deaths were recorded in Bomate and Boloko villages. Symptoms like fever, vomiting, and internal bleeding have led to deaths within 48 hours. The WHO ruled out Ebola and Marburg but is investigating malaria, food poisoning, typhoid, meningitis, and viral fevers. Limited health infrastructure hampers containment measures. With no confirmed links between clusters, urgent action is needed to prevent further spread.

Rate of out-of-pocket expenditure in health decreases in India Rate of out-of-pocket expenditure in health decreases in India Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal April 28, 2023 The HIndu Bureau Health expenditure, Health Insurance, Out-of-pocket expenditure Health out-of-pocket expenditure from total health expenditure has declined from 62.4% in 2014-15 to 47.1% in 2019-20 . Government health expenditure share in country’s share in country’s total GDP , increased from 1.13% (2014-15) to 1.35% (2019-2020) . The share of private health insurance is also going up . According to a NITI Aayog member , this shows maturity in terms of the insurance arena as those who can afford health insurance, can also avail from private players . For further reading, click here .

Revised guidelines for international travel with regards to COVID-19 Revised guidelines for international travel with regards to COVID-19 Content Editor: Dr. Tanya July 5, 2024 Ministry of Health and Family Welfare International Travel, COVID-19, Guidelines As the global COVID-19 cases show declining rates, the Govt. of India has revised the guidelines for International Travel. The revised guidelines on International Travel state: All travelers should preferably be completely immunized against COVID-19. In-flight announcements regarding preventive measures against COVID-19 should be made. Passengers presenting with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 should be isolated and follow standard protocols such as wearing masks and practicing social distancing. They should be provided facility-based care in isolation upon arrival. Social distancing should be followed during deboarding the flights. Adequate thermal screening should be done of all passengers. Self-monitoring of health post-arrival. Individuals are urged to report to a healthcare facility immediately if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. Click here to read more.