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

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.

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 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

New research indicates prostate cancer screening via PSA blood tests can significantly reduce deaths from the disease. While a modest benefit is observed, experts caution about overdiagnosis and overtreatment. The decision for screening should be a personalized discussion between patient and doctor, weighing potential gains against risks.

Conservation breeding of endangered Indian dholes has seen a rare success at Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary, with two pups spotted with their mother. This marks a significant milestone, indicating favorable habitat conditions and successful protection measures for the return of this carnivore.

Two Indian nationals aboard a cruise ship have tested positive for hantavirus, but health officials assure there's no immediate threat to India. The virus, primarily spread by rodents, does not transmit easily between humans. Global health authorities are monitoring the situation, with the public risk deemed very low.

A hantavirus outbreak is under investigation on the cruise ship MV Hondius after passengers fell ill. Transmitted by rodents, the virus can cause severe respiratory illness. While rare globally, recent cases, including a celebrity's death, highlight the risks. Health officials are probing the ship's infection source and stressing rodent control for prevention.

Move to tackle potential outbreaks in view of excess pre-monsoon rain & humidity

As summer heat intensifies, India faces a surge in deadly snakebite incidents, with states like Karnataka and Kerala reporting significant increases. Experts attribute this rise to snakes seeking cooler temperatures and escaping monsoon floods, leading to more human encounters. Delayed treatment and reliance on myths tragically cost lives, underscoring the urgent need for immediate medical attention and preventative measures.