covid 19

Public anxiety over hantavirus is amplified by COVID-19's lingering trauma, leading to comparisons of potential pandemics. However, experts clarify that hantavirus, primarily spread through rodent contact, lacks the efficient human-to-human transmission that fueled COVID-19's global spread, making widespread outbreaks unlikely.

A striking report from the World Health Organization estimates that the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in around 22.1 million excess deaths globally between 2020 and 2023, far exceeding those officially reported. These excess deaths, including those from strained healthcare resources and broader societal impacts, soared in 2021.

Amitabh Bachchan highlighted the profound cultural and spiritual significance of 'Namaskaar,' noting its global adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safe, respectful alternative to handshakes. He explained its Sanskrit roots, meaning 'I bow to you,' and its interpretations in Indian philosophy, yogic traditions, Buddhism, and Jainism, emphasizing humility and respect.

As concerns grow over a hantavirus outbreak traced back to an Antarctic cruise, Britain has taken swift action by securing emergency supplies of Favipiravir from Japan. This antiviral, previously utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, works by targeting viral replication.

Indian health experts assure no need for panic as WHO declares Ebola a global health emergency. Unlike COVID-19, Ebola requires close contact for transmission. India's vigilance, robust lab capacity, and lessons from past outbreaks, including a 2014 case, ensure preparedness. Early detection and screening remain vital.

Doctors Report 40% Rise In Hip Replacement Surgeries In People In Their 30s & 40s

Nearly 60,000 arrest warrants were issued in England and Wales last year for defendants skipping court, a 50% surge since 2020. Over 30,000 warrants remain outstanding, some for over six years, including serious offenses like rape. Former justice secretary calls it a 'horror show' due to systemic failures and backlogs.

Dhanbad's only functional oxygen plant at SNMMCH is now operational after repairs, following a four-day shutdown that led to reliance on cylinders. While two other plants remain non-functional, the hospital superintendent denied any deaths due to oxygen shortage, attributing fatalities to other medical complications. Re-tendering for the non-operational plants will commence soon.

The latest Ebola outbreak, caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain, highlights global disease surveillance weaknesses, even after COVID-19. With no specific vaccine and potential for silent spread, experts fear wider transmission. This outbreak underscores the need for robust public health infrastructure and rapid response to prevent localized crises from becoming global challenges.

22.1 million excess deaths recorded globally between 2020 and 2023

Mumbai civic body's proposal to hand over SevenHills Hospital to a private entity faced strong opposition and was sent back for reconsideration. Corporators questioned the timing, transparency, and terms, citing pressure on public hospitals and past issues with private partnerships. Concerns were raised about losing prime public land and setting a precedent for privatization of other civic hospitals.