disease surveillance

First, Andes strain found on cruise ship is deadly, but most occupants, including two Indians, are under quarantine. Second, Hantavirus strains found in Asia aren’t big killers. Third, India’s disease surveillance is reliable

The litchi orchards of Bihar, celebrated for their exquisite flavor, now grapple with a looming danger: the invasive litchi stink bug. In response, a coalition of institutions has mobilized a task force dedicated to monitoring and devising strategic defenses.

India's Health Ministry has activated surveillance following hantavirus cases on the MV Hondius cruise ship, with eight probable infections and three deaths reported. While the WHO assesses the global risk as low, two asymptomatic Indian nationals are onboard. Travelers to South America are advised to take precautions against rodent exposure.

Mizoram finds itself grappling with a troubling surge in Covid-19 cases, as all 32 reported infections are confined to Aizawl. The latest tests show an alarming positivity rate, leading health officials to issue a public safety advisory.

Daily reports on seasonal illnesses made mandatory; drill on flood management scheduled for May 14

The World Health Organization declared an international health emergency over a rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, with dozens dead. Cases and deaths are rising, particularly in Congo's Ituri province, where community spread and violence complicate containment efforts. This marks Congo's 17th Ebola outbreak.

A fresh Ebola outbreak has emerged in Congo's Ituri province, as confirmed by the Africa CDC. Currently, there are 246 suspected cases alongside 65 tragic deaths. Recognized for its severe and infectious nature, this marks the 17th instance of Ebola in the country.

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.

A 35-year-old shoe seller from Solapur, living in Pune, was arrested at Nagpur railway station for allegedly planting a low-intensity bomb at a Pune hospital. Shivaji Rathod, unable to afford treatment for a sexually transmitted disease, attempted to extort money by creating panic. He was apprehended by the ATS on a train after a manhunt.

The World Health Organization has just declared a global health emergency due to a rare Bundibugyo Ebola strain outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. This strain is concerning as it lacks existing vaccines and therapeutics, and infections have occurred in healthcare settings, raising fears of wider spread.

22.1 million excess deaths recorded globally between 2020 and 2023