Advancement in Virus Research
Context: The Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) in Gandhinagar has achieved a significant milestone by successfully publishing the first fully mapped genome of the Chandipura Vesiculovirus (CHPV). This virus is known for causing encephalitis, a condition characterized by brain swelling. The mapping comes in the wake of a substantial outbreak that affected numerous individuals in […]
National Nutrition Week 2024
Context: National Nutrition Week 2024 is a significant annual event dedicated to spotlighting the crucial role of nutrition in achieving overall health and well-being. Held from September 1st to 7th, this week-long observance focuses on educating the public about the advantages of a balanced diet and promoting healthier eating habits. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of […]
About The Leptospirosis
Context: In Kerala, the threat from the Nipah virus has recently subsided after a critical 42-day observation period without any new cases. However, the relief was short-lived as an outbreak of Leptospirosis, often referred to as “rat fever,” has emerged. This bacterial infection poses a new public health challenge, especially following the monsoon season, highlighting […]
Judicial Intervention on Regulatory Practices
Context: The Supreme Court of India has imposed a stay on a recent notification from the Ministry of AYUSH that omitted Rule 170 from the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. This rule grants the authority to address and take legal action against misleading or inappropriate advertisements concerning Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani medicines. Relevance: GS II: […]
Sharpening India’s Anti-Tuberculosis Fight
Context: The widespread presence of tuberculosis (TB) throughout history and literature highlights how the disease has afflicted generations worldwide and remains a significant issue today. India accounts for over a quarter of the global TB burden. Strong political will in India has contributed to substantial progress in combating the disease. However, as the nation strives toward TB […]
Vaccine Derived Polio infection
Context: A two-year-old child from Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district reportedly tested positive for polio. Relevance: GS II- Health Dimensions of the Article: What is Vaccine Derived Polio infection? What is Polio? Recent Outbreaks of Polio Polio in India India’s Pulse Polio Programme Steps taken by the Government to maintain polio free status in India […]
Concerns Associated with New-Age Devices
Context: What happens when a supposedly healthier alternative turns out to be more dangerous than the original? This is exactly what is occurring with modern gateway devices like e-cigarettes, vaping pens, Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), heat-not-burn (HNB) devices, and other heated tobacco products (HTPs). Relevance: GS2- Health Mains Question: Portrayed as offering a healthier alternative […]
About Parvovirus B19
Context: The US centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a healthy advisory due to concerning rise in cases of parvovirus B19. Relevance: GS II: Health Parvovirus B19: Transmission Methods: Potential Complications: Symptoms of Parvovirus B19: Treatment Approaches: -Source: Indian Express
Study Predicts Dramatic Rise in Global Cancer Cases and Deaths by 2050
Context: A recent publication in the journal “Cancer” has revealed a concerning forecast for global health, predicting an 84.3% increase in cancer cases among men and a 93.2% rise in cancer deaths by the year 2050, relative to the data from 2022. This significant expected increase highlights a severe public health challenge that will demand […]
About Subclinical Tuberculosis
Context: Subclinical Tuberculosis (TB) is a growing concern in India, contributing to the slow decline in TB incidence rates despite advances in detection and treatment. Relevance: GS II: Health Dimensions of the Article: Subclinical Tuberculosis: About Tuberculosis India’s TB Elimination Target: Goals and Challenges India has set an ambitious target of eliminating tuberculosis by 2025, five years ahead of […]