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

66-Headlines of the day (All) Public Health News Snippets 15 - 20th April, 2024 Pop culture as a weapon for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) The caricature, born from a co-design workshop at the Dutch Embassy last November, draws inspiration from Pac-Man and features AMR superheroes combating superbugs in a dynamic battleground, unveiled by Ambassador Marisa Gerards last Thursday. Antimicrobial resistance(AMR) is one of the top 10 worldwide health challenges of the twenty-first century, according to the World Health Organization. "AMR, a growing health concern, resulted in over 1.2 million deaths worldwide in 2019 due to antibiotic misuse in healthcare and agriculture, with antibiotic residues detected in the environment, water, and food, complicating treatment for severe infections," highlighted Gerards. This event is one example of community ownership for health promotion. Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi Aggarwal Social Trends Source : Published on : April 30, 2024 AMR, Health Promotion Asia's climate situation in 2023 Key climate change indicators, including sea level rise, glacier retreat, and surface temperature, have been rising faster than expected, according to the State of the Climate in Asia 2023 study. The mean temperature over Asia in 2023 was 0.91 °C higher than the reference period of 1991–2020, making it the second warmest on record. In the last forty years, the mass of the glaciers in High Mountain Asia has decreased significantly and at an accelerated rate, which was made worse in 2023 by record-breaking high temperatures and dry weather in the Tien Shan mountain range and the Eastern Himalayas. South-west China and the Hindu Kush region experienced severe drought conditions, with below-normal precipitation levels throughout the year. Asia faced a significant number of hydrometeorological hazards, primarily floods and storms, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities and impacting more than 9 million people. 80% of WMO Asia Members provide disaster risk reduction services, but less than 50% in Regional Association II offer vital climate projections, hindering effective adaptation to climate change. Click here to read more . Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi Aggarwal World Meteorological Organization Source : Published on : April 29, 2024 Climate change, Disasters, Hazards Do poor WASH facilities in hospitals create a huge health and economic burden? A recent report by WaterAid exposes the serious effects of insufficient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in healthcare centers across seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa. These included- Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zambia. The study estimated alarming figure s- In 2022, 2.6 billion healthcare-linked infections (HCAIs) occurred due to poor WASH, resulting in 277,160 additional deaths. Over half (50%) of these infections were likely caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The economic burden is massive, costing these countries 2.5% to 10.9% of their healthcare budgets. The lost productivity from infections equates to an extra 0.4% to 2.9% loss in GDP. WaterAid cautions that the problem will intensify with increasing antibiotic resistance. They highlight the cost-effectiveness of improving WASH, estimating the investment required is under US$1 per person —a small amount compared to the savings from reduced HAI costs. The report urges several actions: National governments in these countries should allocate specific budgets for WASH in healthcare facilities. The donors, G7 countries, and international financial organizations should prioritize WASH when supporting healthcare development in low- and middle-income countries. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Chinmay Kelkar WaterAid Source : Published on : April 29, 2024 Antimicrobial stewardship, Healthcare-associated infections U.S. Strategy: Protecting American and global communities from emerging threats The White House released the United States Government Global Health Security Strategy (GHSS) 2024 to keep Americans safe from future pandemics, emphasizing the importance of worldwide collaboration to achieve global health security. The CDC is crucial in these strategies: Coordinate domestic and global health security programs. Offer scientific expertise to partners and policymakers. Lead in addressing infectious disease outbreaks. Utilize data for real-time outbreak response. Maintain international staff for collaborative efforts and early detection of overseas health threats. CDC has a long history of supporting partner governments through initiatives such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to improve their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging health threats. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Source : Published on : April 29, 2024 Emerging Health Threats, International health Need to empower doctors against medicolegal cases Experts demand an increased focus on Medicolegal cases and legal knowledge for doctors to defend themselves in court as the need for strong legal knowledge has increased. The Medical Council of India receives around 100 medicolegal cases every year. As there is an increase in cases of patients dragging doctors to court, framing fictitious cases of negligence, and patients attacking doctors, the Medical Fraternity wants urgent reforms in the medical curriculum. The training will also prepare future doctors to face every situation in this dynamic world of medicine. The NMC and the Ethics Medical Registration Board, in partnership with state medical councils, are urged to provide training to medical practitioners on defending themselves in legal cases. A Health Ministry official says, doctors must have a basic idea of medicolegal cases, as they have ethical and legal obligations. If patients are aware of their rights, doctors should also be empowered. People use the law as a weapon to strong-arm doctors, they should be empowered enough to defend themselves from these false cases. Content Editor: Dr. Aishwarya Social Trends Source : Published on : April 29, 2024 Medico legal cases, Medical Ethics Health concerns spark recall: Carcinogens found in spice mixes Hong Kong’s Centre for Food Safety (CSF) , on 5th April, revealed that they discovered Ethylene oxide, a pesticide in the following Indian brand spice mixes during their regular food surveillance program: MDH Madras curry powder MDH sambar masala MDH curry mixed powder Everest fish curry masala The distributors have started the process for recalls of the impacted products, and the public has been warned not to consume these. Two weeks later the Singapore food agency also issued a recall notice for Everest masala due to the same reason. While there is no immediate effect due to the consumption of this pesticide residue, extended consumption can lead to the formation of cancer cells Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Himabindu Reddy Centre for Food safety, Government of Hong Kong Source : Published on : April 29, 2024 Food safety, Cancer, Nutrition, Food regulation, Carcinogen, Pesticide residues Expansion of the insurance coverage It will now be possible for senior citizens to purchase health insurance, regardless of any underlying medical concerns, even if they are 80 or 90 years old. This comes after the ruling party declared that "everyone over the age of 70 years" would be covered by the government's Ayushman Bharat health insurance program in its election manifesto. Under the previous regulations, people could only get new insurance coverage up until the age of 65. But now that the recent modification is in place and will take effect on April 1st, anyone can get a new health insurance policy, regardless of age. Insurers must provide policies to individuals regardless of severe medical conditions, offer premium payments in installments, and allow AYUSH treatment coverage without limits. Benefit-based policyholders can file multiple claims, while senior citizens' complaints and claims will be handled through a specialized channel for better responsiveness. Content Editor: Dr. Sakshi Aggarwal Social Trends Source : Published on : April 27, 2024 Health Insurance, Ayushman Bharat How effective are antibiotics in providing cough relief among patients with LRTI? The study found that 29% of the LRTI patients enrolled in the study were prescribed at least one of these antibiotics - amoxicillin-clavulanate, azithromycin, doxycycline, and amoxicillin. These patients on antibiotics were likely to be further along in their illness, had a more severe illness, and were more likely to receive systemic corticosteroids and albuterol inhalers. Patients with viral and bacterial infections on antibiotics had coughs for significantly longer duration. The study revealed that physicians probably overestimate the percentage of LRTI infections that are bacterial and overestimate their ability to distinguish bacterial from viral LRTI. The prescription of antibiotics for LRTIs may be reduced even further. Educating patients about how long the symptoms of LRTI typically last, could avoid requests for antibiotics. Further research is required to determine the role of antibiotics in patients with a cough. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Niharika Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy Source : Published on : April 27, 2024 International health, Respiratory infections, Communicable diseases, Lower Respiratory Tract Infections Barriers to Mammograms: A finding from CDC Vital signs study A recent CDC Vital Signs report reveals that only about 65% of women aged 50-74 with multiple health-related social needs are current with their mammograms. These health-related social needs, including factors like food insecurity and unreliable transportation , significantly hinder access to healthcare. Data from the 2022 behavioral risk factor surveillance system shows that the greater the number of social barriers a woman faces, the less likely she is to receive a mammogram. Primary obstacles include healthcare costs, social isolation, unstable employment and not having dependable transportation. Furthermore, uninsured women, who have low income or lack a regular healthcare provider are less likely to undergo regular mammograms. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Ghurumourty Center for Disease Control Source : Published on : April 27, 2024 Cancer, Non-communicable diseases, Mammography, Screening Update on concomitant treatment of Hepatitis C and tuberculosis Evidence suggests that concurrent therapy for HCV and MDR/RR-TB is feasible, with potential benefits outweighing the hazards. Co-administration may improve MDR/RR-TB treatment success while decreasing failures, loss to follow-up, and fatalities. These details are provided in the new edition of WHO unified guidelines for the treatment of TB and drug-resistant tuberculosis, with its accompanying Operational Handbook on Tuberculosis: Module 4: therapy. While short-course oral d irect-a cting a ntivirals (DAAs ) have revolutionized HCV treatment , with over 90% sustained virologic response rates, managing chronic HCV in MDR/RR-TB patients remains a difficulty due to differing national policies. This new update further encourages countries to take unified national policies regarding the same. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Anubhav Mondal WHO News Section Source : Published on : April 27, 2024 Tuberculosis, Hepatitis, Treatment guidelines Revision of the pesticide limits in spices and herbs. A recent advisory released by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) raised the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of pesticides in India in spices and herbs to 0.1 mg/kg from 0.01 mg/kg . This change is said to be guided by data from field trials conducted by the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB&RC) . Due to the lack of field trial data in countries like India, the MRLs will be fixed based on data generated from the Monitoring of Pesticide Residues at National Level (MPRNL) by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare. In case the pesticide is registered with CIB&RC, and the MRLs are specified for food commodities other than spices and culinary herbs, the standards set in the Codex Alimentarius , approved by the WHO and FAO will apply. If the MRLs are not specified in the codex or the pesticide is not registered with the CIB&RC, the MRL of 0.1 mg/kg will apply . Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Manu Goel Food Safety and Standards Authority of India Source : Published on : April 25, 2024 Food Safety, Pesticide levels, FSSAI DRONE- the innovative technology In a revolutionary step in innovative research, the pilot testing of DRONE technology for transferring pathological specimens mid-surgery was conducted recently. DRONE technology stands for “Deployment of a Robust Need-based aerial healthcare delivery system. This initiative was undertaken as a collaborative effort between ICMR and Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. This technology transferred the specimen across 37 km, reducing the waiting period from 60 to 15 minutes. This study aims to evaluate the potential use of such technology to transport specimens from secondary to tertiary care centers. This innovative approach would enable faster decisions during surgery and improved access to high-level health care for patients in peripheral hospitals Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. Swathi Shenoy Indian Council of Medical Research Source : Published on : April 27, 2024 Innovation, Research, and Technology DNS22 DNS 2 DNS Is there any association between stroke and climate change? Data from the World Bank climate database “Climatic Research Unit Gridded Time Series” and the “Global Burden of Disease Study” were analyzed to estimate the burden of stroke globally and its association with different climate conditions. The study found that more than 5 lakh deaths and 9 million DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years) due to stroke were attributable to non-optimal temperature exposure. The age-standardized mortality rate was found to be higher in men (ASMR -7.70) compared to women (ASMR - 5.89). Central Asia has the highest-burden at a regional level. The stroke burden due to low temperatures was more prevalent than high temperatures , but the burden of higher temperatures has increased over the years with disproportionate effects on the lower socio-demographic index areas of Africa, and Central Asia. The study draws attention to the impact of climate change on stroke and the need for policy actions towards it. Content Editor: Dr. Urmimala American Academy of Neurology Source : Published on : April 13, 2024 Research findings, Climate Change, Neuroepidemiology Meghayan 2024: At the frontline of climate action World Meteorological Day is celebrated each year on March 23rd to commemorate the origin of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). In India, the School of Naval Oceanology & Meteorology (SNOM) and Indian Naval Meteorological Analysis Centre (INMAC) celebrated the day with a seminar on ‘At the Frontline of Climate Action’. Admiral R.R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, commented on the harsh reality of climate change and the need to work together globally for 'Achieving a Climate Smart Society'. He also shared the Navy’s commitment to adopting long-term sustainable policies and integrating climate change factors into security techniques. There was also a panel discussion on the ‘Effect of Weather and Climate Change on Naval Operations’ by those specializing in the field. An Indian-made application, INDRA (Indian Naval Dynamic Resource for Weather Analysis) , was launched to help in rapid and precise weather forecasting for Navy operations. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 13, 2024 Climate change, healthcare technology Maternal diet and childhood obesity: Insights from a secondary analysis in Australia Childhood obesity and overweight are pressing global concerns, with Australia witnessing a 24% prevalence among children recently. Fetal malnutrition is linked to later obesity risk, influenced by prenatal and postnatal environments. A secondary analysis of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) dataset was conducted to identify modifiable risk factors, like maternal dietary habits during pregnancy. BMI z-score and weight status were outcome variables, while prenatal maternal dietary exclusion (PMDE) and supplement use were risk and moderator variables. No direct association was found between PMDE and the child's BMI z-score. PMDE of certain foods had varied effects on weight status, with fish and egg exclusion associated with higher odds of unhealthy weight. Prenatal dietary supplement use, especially folate and iron, moderated some associations, often increasing BMI z-scores and overweight/obesity risk. Dietary supplements alone didn't significantly impact childhood obesity risk, potentially depending on the mother’s overall diet. These findings stress the importance of maternal nutrition during pregnancy and suggest possible adjustments to dietary recommendations for better child health outcomes. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay PLOS One Source : Published on : April 13, 2024 Nutrition, Maternal and child health India at the 2nd Employment Working Group (EWG) meeting in Brasilia The 2nd EWG meeting encompassed discussions on: Promotion of quality employment Addressing smooth transition amidst digital and energy transformations. Utilization of technology to improve quality of life Emphasizing gender equity The Government of India took the following steps to promote gender equity in the workplace: Occupational Safety Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 : allows women to be employed in all establishments for all types of work with their consent at night. This provision has already been implemented in underground mines. The Revised Maternity Benefit Act, 2017 :increased' maternity leave with pay protection' from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for all women working in establishments employing 10 or more workers. This is expected to reduce the motherhood pay gap among working mothers. One Nation, One Ration Card : allows migrants to access their entitled food grains from anywhere in the Public Distribution System network in the country. e-Shram portal : launched to create a national database of unorganized workers, especially migrant and construction workers. This initiative, providing the e-Shram card, enables access to benefits under various social security schemes. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Tanya Tanu Social Trends Source : Published on : April 13, 2024 Occupational Health, Employment Working Group Introduction of new criminal laws in India: Implications and changes The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nakrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 introduced three new criminal laws , which will be effective from July 1, 2024. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 replaces the Indian Penal Code 1860 , necessitating awareness among healthcare practitioners to avoid medicolegal issues. The new criminal laws are currently being communicated to all states and Union Territories. States and Union Territories are urged to conduct awareness campaigns to effectively communicate the key provisions of the three new criminal laws concerning medicolegal cases to all medical practitioners across clinical establishments within their jurisdiction. Previously, IPC 304A addressed negligent acts resulting in death, punishable by up to 2 years in prison. IPC 336 and 337 covered acts endangering human life or safety, carrying penalties of up to 2 and 6 months of imprisonment, respectively. IPC 338 dealt with causing harm due to negligence, with penalties of up to 6 months of imprisonment. However, revisions under the new laws have altered these penalties. Under the new Act, Section 106 addresses causing death by negligence, extending the punishment to 5 years with fines, particularly emphasizing a 2-year imprisonment for registered medical practitioners. Retaining the punishment of Section 304A for doctors, the new law extends liability to 5 years for others. Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Source : Published on : April 13, 2024 Public health law, Penal code Solar power as an important form of renewable energy In a mission to combat climate change, the CJI, Dr. D.Y.Chandrachud, discussed the following in his recent judgment on the protection of Endangered Species:- The rising poor air quality associated with fossil fuels and reducing reliance on them will bring down greenhouse gas emissions. Increasing energy security by harnessing solar photovoltaic power in the Indian peninsula, with emphasis on regions positioned as prime areas such as Gujarat and Rajasthan (4-7 kWh per sq m per day). Multiple initiatives taken by the country are as follows: ‘One Sun, One World, One Grid’ Green Grids Initiative International Solar Alliance (COP21, Paris 2015), plans to achieve Net Zero Emissions by 2070. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) states India has the 4th largest installed capacity of renewable energy. The National Action Plan on Climate Change includes the National Solar Mission as a key to reducing reliance on fossil fuels by at least 50%. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Shubham Gupta Supreme Court Proceedings Source : Published on : April 11, 2024 Renewable Energy, Air Pollution Avian influenza (H5N1): An outbreak report The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) mentioned in its epidemiological outbreak report mentioned cases of avian influenza. They also emphasized the need to establish measures for prevention and response to curtail the spread. An outbreak of cases was seen in Brazil, Canada, Ecuador, the Falkland Islands, Mexico, Peru, and the United States. The report was published at the end of March 2024 and emphasized the need for: Intersectoral coordination to promote epidemiological and virological investigations Preparedness for emergencies and especially for the pandemic potential of the outbreak Delegation of teams for Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCE) and collecting relevant information to look for patterns Public messaging and social communication for preventive behavior change Surveillance of Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) and Influenza Syndrome (ILI) Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Shubham Gupta Pan American Health Organisation Source : Published on : April 11, 2024 International Health, Outbreak, Surveillance Medicine price regulations: Insights into drug price control order Drug Price Control Orders (DPCO) 2013 categorize drugs into scheduled and non-scheduled formulations. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) annually revises the ceiling prices of scheduled medicines based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). Recent media reports falsely claimed a significant 12% hike in medicine prices starting in April 2024. However, for 2023 , WPI (Wholesale Price Index) increased by a negligible 0.00551%, resulting in no change in ceiling prices for 782 medicines up to 31.3.2025. Fifty-four medicines may see a small hike of Rs. 0.01, but companies may choose not to implement it. Manufacturers of non-scheduled formulations cannot increase MRP by more than 10% in the preceding 12 months under DPCO 2013. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 11, 2024 Drug Costing, Inflation, Health Economics India's fight against drug demand The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, leads efforts to reduce drug demand through the N ational A ction P lan for D rug D emand R eduction (NAPDDR ), providing financial aid to states, NGOs, and hospitals. NAPDDR supports various initiatives, including: Integrated Rehabilitation Centers for Addicts (IRCAs), Community-based Peer-led Intervention (CPLI) programs, Outreach and Drop-In Centers (ODICs), Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATFs), District De-Addiction Centers (DDACs). Activities include- Geo-tagging facilities for easy access, A toll-free helpline (14446) for counseling and referral purposes , and The development of Navchetna modules for education . The N asha M ukt B harat A bhiyaan (NMBA ), launched in 2020, aims to raise awareness across all districts, targeting educational institutions, vulnerable populations, and service providers. Achievements include sensitizing over 10.73 crore people, involving 3.29 lakh educational institutions, and training over 8,000 Master Volunteers (MVs). Partnerships with spiritual/social service organizations further support NMBA's goals, with recent initiatives enhancing its impact. Outreach efforts, including social media campaigns, a mobile application, and a national online pledge, have successfully relayed the message. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 10, 2024 Deaddiction, Substance abuse Raising awareness about heat-related illness: The need of the hour The Union health minister stressed the importance of continuity in IEC efforts to prevent and better manage heat-related illnesses. Dr Mandaviya also remarked on the lack of requisite data and the need to create a central database recording heat wave pattern distribution, and cases of heat-related illnesses and deaths . This will thus help policymakers create a realistic picture of the health situation to manage. States and district-level authorities were asked to take the following steps to ensure adequate management: Implement SOPs for Heatstroke Surveillance Re-evaluate local-level preparedness, stock of essential medicines, ice packs, and ORS sachets at public health facilities. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. KH Reddy Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 10, 2024 Heat Wave, Heat Related Illness, Health Promotion, Public Health, MoHFW Boreal Pox: Unveiling Alaska's enigmatic virus While Boreal pox was first identified in Fairbanks Alaska, the Department of Health of Alaska wanted the terminology of the virus to reflect the scope of identification outside of Alaska. Hence, after coordination with the CDC and WHO, from April 2024, Alaska pox will be referred to by its new name, Boreal Pox. The first six cases were from Fairbanks itself, while the latest was reported this year from the Kenai region of Alaska. No human-to-human transmission has been observed with Boreal pox but epidemiologists report that canine and feline pets may have a role in its transmission. Symptoms of this infection include skin lesions like pustules, swollen lymph nodes, and joint/muscle pain. Click here to read more. Content Editor: Dr. KH Reddy Alaska Department of Health Source : Published on : April 10, 2024 Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Orthopoxvirus, Global Health Cadaveric organ donations: A review by ZTCC Mumbai ZTCC (Z onal T ransplant C oordination C entre) was set up in Mumbai by the state government in 1999 , which promotes brain-dead donor donations and coordinates the distribution of deceased donors between various hospitals. So far, there have been 659 brain-dead donors who have benefitted 1884 patients in Mumbai. However, a 24-year review of cadaver or deceased organ donations in Mumbai shows that only 10% of those registered (18,226 patients) for a transplant could get an organ. Almost 70% of them needed a kidney. ZTCC advises people to have a signed donor card. It also concluded that cadaveric donations can be increased by having new regulations and the appointment of transplant coordinators. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Immanual Joshua ZTCC Mumbai Source : Published on : April 10, 2024 Organ donation, Transplant Green cover: A dust mitigation strategy. MCD recommends planting of trees in schools, open areas and on the roadside this year. The horticulture department has released notices for the zonal offices to detail on their specific measures to implement the task. MCD also aims to carpet or repair 50km of internal roads by Oct as part of dust mitigation measures. Work is being implemented under non-plan head, funds received from MLAs or M ukhyamantri S adak P unarniraman Y ojna, said by officials. Water sprinklers, jet machines and anti-smog guns are being sprayed to mitigate dust pollution. Content Editor: Dr. Aishwarya Social Trends Source : Published on : April 22, 2024 at 1:00:00 PM Environmental Health, Dust Mitigation, One Health. Heat-related illness advisory: Guidelines & preparedness Due to the risk of above-normal seasonal temperatures, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) released an advisory to the State Health Departments on Heat-Related Illnesses (HRIs) . The salient points are as follows - Ensure dissemination of national and state-level guidelines on tackling heat-related illnesses. Manage coordination among various stakeholders at the state level. Start maintenance and reporting of cases and deaths due to heat-related illnesses . Deaths due to such cases must be investigated to understand the epidemiology of the illness. Health facilities must be able to manage HRIs and must have adequate human and medicinal resources for the same. The facilities should also be able to withstand the complications of extreme heat. Mass gatherings and sports events must be prepared to manage HRIs Early warnings for heat waves and health-related activities to spread awareness about HRIs should be carried out. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Manu Goel National Centre for Disease Control Source : Published on : April 20, 2024 at 3:00:00 PM Heat-related illnesses, Disease prevention, Intersectoral coordination, National Centre for Disease Control Innovative hearing solutions: Piezoelectric implants The Department of ENT at Command Hospital (Southern Command) in Pune has successfully performed two piezoelectric Bone Conduction Hearing Implants (BCI). These procedures were conducted on a 7-year-old child with congenital ear anomalies and severe hearing loss and an adult with Single Sided Deafness (SSD), making it the first government hospital in India to achieve this feat. The designated Neurotology Centre of the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), has been offering implantable hearing solutions for years. The piezoelectric BCI system is crucial for patients with conductive/mixed hearing loss who aren't candidates for cochlear implants or benefit from hearing aids or middle ear surgery. The surgeries were performed by Lt Col (Dr) Rahul Kurkure, under the guidance of Col (Dr) Nitu Singh, at the helm of Command Hospital (SC), Pune, led by Maj Gen B Nambiar, the success was praised by high-ranking officials. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr Sumana Mukhopadhyay Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 20, 2024 at 3:00:00 PM Health technology, Hearing loss, Implants MERS-like coronavirus - a developing threat The threat of another pandemic due to coronaviruses is likely due to their genetic diversity, and rapid mutations and hence deserves continual attention. MERS-CoV was first identified as a cause of zoonotic disease in 2012 in dromedary camels and continues to circulate in camels and cause disease in humans. It can cause Middle East respiratory syndrome, which has led to 2609 human cases and 939 reported deaths since its recognition, mostly in Saudi Arabia. Despite not having caused a large epidemic so far, it has the potential for a future outbreak due to ongoing zoonotic transmission and circulation among camels in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The major concern is the evolution of new lineages , which can result in efficient human-to-human transmission. Many new strains can infect human cells via the DPP4 receptor (the MERS-CoV host cell receptor) or ACE2 (SARS-CoV receptor). Hence, it is prudent to be attentive to newly identified MERS-like coronaviruses isolated from animals such as bats, pangolins, and European hedgehogs. Content Editor: Dr. Prachi Goswami The Lancet Source : Published on : April 20, 2024 at 3:00:00 PM Pandemic, coronavirus, MERS-CoV Synergistic approach to beat the summers The minutes of the meeting held among the officials of IMD, NDMA, and PMO were: The forecast for above-normal maximum temperatures over most parts of the country and longer days of heat wave episodes and heatwave spells than normal was explained. IEC (Information Education Communication) materials regarding summer preparedness were planned to be translated into regional languages and disseminated to combat the hotter-than-usual summer that coincides with the general elections. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for a synergistic approach involving various ministries and arms of the government in this regard and reviewed the adequacy of health sector preparedness. Click here to read more Content Editor: Dr. Sivanthiga Press Information Bureau Source : Published on : April 20, 2024 at 3:00:00 PM Climate Change, Mitigation, IEC, Health Awareness 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