Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) case detected in UAE Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) case detected in UAE Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal August 7, 2023 WHO news Section Infectious Diseases, International Health, MERS MERS CoV can cause asymptomatic or mild respiratory symptoms to severe acute respiratory illness and mortality. The 108 identified contacts of the case were all kept under observation for 14 days. The last MERS-CoV illness from the UAE was reported before this in November 2021. The Case Fatality Rate of MERS-CoV patients is 35% , however, this figure may overstate. Direct or indirect interaction with dromedaries and healthcare facilities have been the sites of observed non-sustained human-to-human transmission. WHO advocates strict surveillance by all Member States for acute respiratory illnesses, including MERS-CoV, and to carefully assess any atypical trends. WHO currently did not suggest the implementation of any trade or travel restrictions or additional screening at entry points concerning this event.

Current coverage of the FSSAI's 'Eat right station' initiative" Current coverage of the FSSAI's 'Eat right station' initiative" Content Editor: Dr. Sumana Mukhopadhyay March 22, 2024 Press Information Bureau Food safety FSSAI's Eat Right Station initiative certified 150 railway stations nationwide, enhancing food safety. The certification process involves strict audits and training to ensure adherence to hygiene standards. A few notable certified stations include New Delhi, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. The initiative ensures safe, nutritious food for passengers and boosts vendors' credibility. Six metro stations, such as Noida Sector 51 and Esplanade (Kolkata), were also accredited. Various stakeholders, including Indian Railways and state FDAs, play important roles in the certification process. FSSAI plans to extend the program to cover all major railway and metro stations, promoting health. Click here to read more.

A day to be human: April 5th, International Day of Conscience A day to be human: April 5th, International Day of Conscience Content Editor: Dr. Purnoor Kaur April 10, 2023 United Nations International Day Celebrations The UN General Assembly declared April 5th as the International Day of Conscience to promote peace, respect for human rights, and fundamental freedoms for all without discrimination. They encourage member states, organizations, the private sector, and individuals to build a culture of peace through education and awareness-raising activities for sustainable development. The culture of peace originated from the 1989 International Congress on Peace and has become a global movement through the participation of civil society. The United Nations calls for peace founded on intellectual and moral solidarity, not just political and economic arrangements.

Nagaland's first medical college - road to brighter future Nagaland's first medical college - road to brighter future Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay November 20, 2023 Nagaland post Medical Education The inauguration of the first medical college marked a historic day for Nagaland, bridging a 60-year gap in higher education institutions within the state. The health minister encouraged the state to establish Jan Aushadi Kendras in health facilities and explore partnerships with Ayushman Bharat and CM Health Insurance Scheme to enhance healthcare access. The NIMSR aims to be a centre of excellence in academics, research, and patient care, producing well-rounded medical professionals and aids in promotion of medical tourism. Nagaland's doctor-patient ratio is among the lowest in India , and the increase in MBBS seats aims to alleviate the doctor shortage. The college's establishment began in 2013-14, and it has commenced formal classes with the first batch of 100 students. Notably, the event saw a generous donation of pathological specimens for academic purposes by Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, adding value to medical education at NIMSR.

Google's AI for tuberculosis detection Google's AI for tuberculosis detection Content Editor: Shayari September 5, 2024 Social Trends Tuberculosis, Artificial intelligence, Innovation, Technology Google is working on an innovative AI system that could revolutionize tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. The AI analyzes audio recordings of patients' coughs and breaths to identify patterns associated with TB. This technology can significantly improve TB diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings. The AI is being tested on a large cough and breathing recordings dataset. The technology aims to provide faster and more accessible TB diagnosis than traditional methods. This initiative could help tackle the global TB epidemic, which affects millions worldwide. Click here to read more.