Health and Me

Ishita Roy

RFK's MAHA Report Raises Concerns On American Healthcare

A new, not binding legally, 69-page long document was released on Thursday by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), titled Make America Healthy Again. The report revealed the health priorities of Secretary <span>Robert F Kennedy Jr</span> and has stirred debate across medical and agricultural communities. The report is expected to guide health policies during the remaining term of President Trump's term. The report has, as expected questioned vaccine safety, and brought the spotlight to the dangers of ultra processed foods.

The report has called for heightened scrutiny of childhood vaccine schedule. It has also raised concerns about mandatory school vaccinations and the lack of placebo-based trials. While vaccines has been credited for a long time for eliminating deadly diseases like measles and polio, Kennedy has remained a vaccine skeptic. He has further suggested an investigation. As the US News also reports, this report has been criticized by Dr Amesh Adalja of Johns Hopkins for presenting a report without any scientific evidence that links vaccine to rising conditions like autism or obesity.

“It’s not as if they’re positing any kind of causal link,” Adalja said. “Kennedy is trying to devalue vaccines in the minds of Americans.”

The report also notes to limit access to <span>COVID-19</span> shots.

Farming chemicals, particularly glyphosate—a widely used herbicide—are another focal point. The report cites World Health Organization findings that label glyphosate a probable carcinogen, although the EPA disputes this. Critics, including the National Corn Growers Association, condemned the report for spreading fear without solid evidence.

Yet, MAHA supporters like Dave Murphy, as US News reported, argue the report doesn’t go far enough in addressing pesticide-related health issues, warning of potential political consequences if the concerns are overlooked.

<h4>Ultra-processed Foods and Poor Nutrition</h4>

The strongest health key point that the report highlights is the industry of ultra-processed foods. This accounts for about two-thirds of American children and teens' diets. These foods are rich in sugar, refined grains, and additives. They are linked with chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and many more. As the US News reports, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian of Tufts University called the report a “pretty accurate depiction” of America’s nutrition crisis.

The report urges the National Institutes of Health to conduct wide-scale studies on these products. However, the call comes amid proposed budget cuts of $18 billion to NIH, raising concerns about how this research will be funded.

<h4>Physical Inactivity And Over Medication</h4>

Kennedy’s report also flags concerns about overprescription in children, including common medications like antibiotics and ADHD treatments. It argues that children are “overmedicated and undernourished,” and that even the use of everyday painkillers should be reconsidered.

Additionally, the report laments the declining levels of physical activity among American youth, framing it as a contributor to the rise in chronic disease.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins acknowledged the challenges of satisfying both health advocates and industry stakeholders. The report attempts to balance these perspectives, though some in the administration remain wary of adopting stricter regulations.

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IIIT-Delhi, French Team Develop AI Tool To Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance

Alcohol-Related Cancer Deaths Double in U.S. Over 30 Years

India Logs Rise In New Covid Cases: Here's All You Need To Know

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A new, not binding legally, 69-page long document was released on Thursday by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), titled Make America Healthy Again. The report revealed the health priorities of Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr and has stirred debate across medical and agricultural communities. The report is expected to guide health policies during the remaining term of President Trump's term. The report has, as expected questioned vaccine safety, and brought the spotlight to the dangers of ultra processed foods.Vaccine Under The MicroscopeThe report has called for heightened scrutiny of childhood vaccine schedule. It has also raised concerns about mandatory school vaccinations and the lack of placebo-based trials. While vaccines has been credited for a long time for eliminating deadly diseases like measles and polio, Kennedy has remained a vaccine skeptic. He has further suggested an investigation. As the US News also reports, this report has been criticized by Dr Amesh Adalja of Johns Hopkins for presenting a report without any scientific evidence that links vaccine to rising conditions like autism or obesity.“It’s not as if they’re positing any kind of causal link,” Adalja said. “Kennedy is trying to devalue vaccines in the minds of Americans.”The report also notes to limit access to COVID-19 shots.Chemical Safety In FoodFarming chemicals, particularly glyphosate—a widely used herbicide—are another focal point. The report cites World Health Organization findings that label glyphosate a probable carcinogen, although the EPA disputes this. Critics, including the National Corn Growers Association, condemned the report for spreading fear without solid evidence.Yet, MAHA supporters like Dave Murphy, as US News reported, argue the report doesn’t go far enough in addressing pesticide-related health issues, warning of potential political consequences if the concerns are overlooked.Ultra-processed Foods and Poor NutritionThe strongest health key point that the report highlights is the industry of ultra-processed foods. This accounts for about two-thirds of American children and teens' diets. These foods are rich in sugar, refined grains, and additives. They are linked with chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and many more. As the US News reports, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian of Tufts University called the report a “pretty accurate depiction” of America’s nutrition crisis.The report urges the National Institutes of Health to conduct wide-scale studies on these products. However, the call comes amid proposed budget cuts of $18 billion to NIH, raising concerns about how this research will be funded.Physical Inactivity And Over MedicationKennedy’s report also flags concerns about overprescription in children, including common medications like antibiotics and ADHD treatments. It argues that children are “overmedicated and undernourished,” and that even the use of everyday painkillers should be reconsidered.Additionally, the report laments the declining levels of physical activity among American youth, framing it as a contributor to the rise in chronic disease.Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins acknowledged the challenges of satisfying both health advocates and industry stakeholders. The report attempts to balance these perspectives, though some in the administration remain wary of adopting stricter regulations.

rfk's maha report raises concerns on american healthcare

IIIT-Delhi, French Team Develop AI Tool to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance

AI Tool Developed To Identify Alternative Antibiotics For Drug-Resistant Infections

ai tool developed to identify alternative antibiotics for drug-resistant infections

World’s First Gonorrhoea Vaccine Rolled Out In England Amid STI Surge- How Does It Help In Treatment?

world’s first gonorrhoea vaccine rolled out in england amid sti surge- how does it help in treatment?

Health & Wellness

Dormant For 50 Years, Woman Dies From Extremely Rare Brain Disease Decades After Childhood Hormone Shot

dormant for 50 years, woman dies from extremely prion disease decades after childhood hormone shot

COVID-19 Returns? Is The New Variant Worse And How Long Will You Be Sick With It?

covid-19 returns? is the new variant worse and how long will you be sick with it?

In a promising step towards tackling the global health crisis of <span>antimicrobial resistance</span> (AMR), researchers from the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), India, and Inria Saclay, France, have developed a powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tool. This new system is designed to help clinicians identify effective treatments for drug-resistant bacterial infections by repurposing existing antibiotics, potentially transforming infection management worldwide.

<span>Antimicrobial</span> resistance occurs when <span>bacteria</span> evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, making once-effective drugs useless. This growing issue threatens to turn minor infections like urinary tract infections or pneumonia into life-threatening conditions. The problem is especially severe in low- and middle-income countries, where over 70% of hospital-acquired infections are resistant to at least one widely used antibiotic.

Adding to the challenge is the slow pace of antibiotic development. Creating a new drug often takes over ten years and involves substantial financial investment. As a result, scientists and clinicians are increasingly looking to drug repurposing—finding new uses for existing medications—as a faster, more cost-effective solution.

To support this strategy, a team led by Dr. Emilie Chouzenoux from Inria Saclay and Dr. Angshul Majumdar from IIIT-Delhi has developed a hybrid machine learning algorithm that can recommend treatment alternatives for resistant infections. Other key team members include research engineer Stuti Jain and graduate students Kriti Kumar and Sayantika Chatterjee.

What sets this tool apart is its unique blend of clinical and molecular data. Instead of relying solely on rigid databases or predefined rules, the AI model learns from real-world treatment guidelines provided by top Indian hospitals. It then integrates this information with bacterial genomic data and the chemical structures of antibiotics to identify effective, lesser-known alternatives.

The AI system was tested on several challenging pathogens known for their resistance to treatment:

<ul><li>Klebsiella pneumoniae, which causes hospital-acquired pneumonia and bloodstream infections</li><li>Neisseria gonorrhoeae, responsible for gonorrhea, which is increasingly difficult to treat</li><li>Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis</li></ul>

In each case, the AI tool successfully recommended antibiotics that had either proven effectiveness or strong potential for repurposing. These results were validated by resistance data and clinical experts.

<h4>A Global Solution for a Global Problem</h4>

“This is an excellent example of how AI and international collaboration can come together to solve real-world medical challenges,” said Dr. Majumdar. He added that this approach makes better use of existing medical knowledge and enables quicker, smarter responses to the AMR crisis.

Designed for scalability, the AI system can be integrated into hospital networks or public health programs, especially in settings with limited diagnostic tools. It not only aids in timely treatment decisions but also supports responsible antibiotic use.

By linking clinical expertise with molecular science, this innovation marks a significant leap in the global fight against AMR—showcasing how collaborative, data-driven technologies can pave the way for better healthcare solutions.

antimicrobial resistance

health and wellness

antimicrobial

bacteria

AI tool to beat antimicrobial resistance

In a promising step towards tackling the global health crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), researchers from the Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), India, and Inria Saclay, France, have developed a powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tool. This new system is designed to help clinicians identify effective treatments for drug-resistant bacterial infections by repurposing existing antibiotics, potentially transforming infection management worldwide.Understanding the Threat of AMRAntimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, making once-effective drugs useless. This growing issue threatens to turn minor infections like urinary tract infections or pneumonia into life-threatening conditions. The problem is especially severe in low- and middle-income countries, where over 70% of hospital-acquired infections are resistant to at least one widely used antibiotic.Adding to the challenge is the slow pace of antibiotic development. Creating a new drug often takes over ten years and involves substantial financial investment. As a result, scientists and clinicians are increasingly looking to drug repurposing—finding new uses for existing medications—as a faster, more cost-effective solution.How the AI Tool WorksTo support this strategy, a team led by Dr. Emilie Chouzenoux from Inria Saclay and Dr. Angshul Majumdar from IIIT-Delhi has developed a hybrid machine learning algorithm that can recommend treatment alternatives for resistant infections. Other key team members include research engineer Stuti Jain and graduate students Kriti Kumar and Sayantika Chatterjee.What sets this tool apart is its unique blend of clinical and molecular data. Instead of relying solely on rigid databases or predefined rules, the AI model learns from real-world treatment guidelines provided by top Indian hospitals. It then integrates this information with bacterial genomic data and the chemical structures of antibiotics to identify effective, lesser-known alternatives.Tested Against Deadly PathogensThe AI system was tested on several challenging pathogens known for their resistance to treatment:Klebsiella pneumoniae, which causes hospital-acquired pneumonia and bloodstream infectionsNeisseria gonorrhoeae, responsible for gonorrhea, which is increasingly difficult to treatMycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosisIn each case, the AI tool successfully recommended antibiotics that had either proven effectiveness or strong potential for repurposing. These results were validated by resistance data and clinical experts.A Global Solution for a Global Problem“This is an excellent example of how AI and international collaboration can come together to solve real-world medical challenges,” said Dr. Majumdar. He added that this approach makes better use of existing medical knowledge and enables quicker, smarter responses to the AMR crisis.Designed for scalability, the AI system can be integrated into hospital networks or public health programs, especially in settings with limited diagnostic tools. It not only aids in timely treatment decisions but also supports responsible antibiotic use.By linking clinical expertise with molecular science, this innovation marks a significant leap in the global fight against AMR—showcasing how collaborative, data-driven technologies can pave the way for better healthcare solutions.

iiit-delhi, french team develop ai tool to tackle antimicrobial resistance

India Logs Rise In New Covid Cases

257 Active Cases of COVID-19 In India - What Is The New Strain And Safety Guidelines To Follow?

covid-19 update: 257 active cases in india, 2 new deaths in mumbai

10 Things About The New COVID-19 Vaccine Plan By Trump Administration

10 things about the new covid-19 vaccine plan by trump administration

Does A Better Alternative to Covid-19 Vaccine Exist? Here's What You Need To Know

does a better alternative to covid-19 vaccine exist? here's what you need to know

The new variant of COVID-19 has hit parts of Asia, cases have surged in Hong Kong and Singapore, and Thailand too has reported new cases. Amid all this, in India too, health authorities are monitoring the cases closely. While the numbers remain low, as compared to previous wave of COVID-19, certain Indian cities have reported low, but significant surge in infections.

Two mild cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Gurgaon— a 62-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both recently returned from Mumbai. District health officials, including Chief Medical Officer Dr. Alka Singh, assured that there’s no reason for alarm as both are in home isolation and recovering well.

“This is now an endemic. Many with symptoms may test positive, but there’s no cause for panic,” Dr. Singh told reporters on Thursday.

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old security guard from Faridabad tested positive at Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital during treatment for similar symptoms. None of the three individuals have recent foreign travel history or contact with known Covid-positive persons. Variant identification is pending further lab testing.

In May, Mumbai has reported 95 new cases of COVID-19. This has put the state's total number to 106 since January. The data is corroborated by the Maharashtra Health Department. 

Currently, at least 16 people are hospitalized, and most have been shifted from KEM Hospital to Seven Hills Hospital to curb the transmission. Authorities have also increased testing all patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) or with severe cute respiratory infection (SARI). The same patients are now being tested for COVID-19. 

Pune too is on high alert, though there are no active cases at the moment. The municipal officials have reserved 50 beds at Naidu Hospital as a precautionary measure. Dr Nina Borade, who is the health chief at Pune Municipal Corporation said, "We had only one patient in May - an 87-year-old from Manjari - who has since fully recovered," as reported by TOI.

Dr Borade also noted that tests are not being conducted at any civic hospitals, however, the guidelines will be updated, as and when it is required. 

There has been a surge in cases in Tamil Nadu, with 12 new COVID-19 cases being reported in Puducherry. In Chennai too, doctors have reported a shift where fevers which were previously linked with influenza are now being linked to COVID-19. 

There is also a rise of COVID-19 cases among viral cases, and many of the patients who may have been diagnosed with influenza A or B, are now being checked for COVID-19 cases. 

TOI reported that the public health director Dr TS Selvavinayagam has told the public to not panic, however, he has urged them to remain cautious when in crowded spaces. 

At this moment, Karnataka has confirmed 16 active cases of COVID-19. The data is corroborated by the state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.

<strong>ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/covid-cases-surge-in-singapore-what-do-we-know-about-the-new-variant-on-the-loose-article-151670632" data-type="tilCustomLink"> Covid Cases Surge In Singapore: What Do We Know About The New Variant On The Loose?</a></strong> 

Seven cases as of now are detected in Ahmedabad. All these cases were detected on a single day, which made the city to witness an unusual spike in just one day, that has averaged just one cases per month over the past year. 

The 7 patients are kept in home isolation, and authorities have sent their samples for genomic testing. 

The state health officials on Thursday confirmed that among the 15 active cases in Gujarat, all of them are milder Omicron JN.1 variant. 

As per the Ministry of Health, Singapore, the spike in cases is attributed to the new variant which may be on the loose - LF.7 and NB.1.8. These two are descendants of the JN.1 variant.

The cases have also spiked in Hong Kong. Thus Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said that the rising COVID activity reached a 1-year high and have urged people to take precautions and receive an initial dose of COVID vaccine as soon as possible.

The Ministry of Health, Singapore, informed, ""LF.7 and NB.1.8 are the main Covid-19 variants circulating in Signapore." They are the descendants of the JN.1 variant that is used in COVID-19 vaccines.

<h4>What are The Symptoms Of This New Variant?</h4>

The symptoms which are associated with this current Covid wave are a bit different from what we have seen before. While cough and sore throat are there, the symptoms also include nausea, vomiting, brain fog, and conjunctivitis.

The symptoms however are mild. The experts have for now asked people to monitor their health and seek medical attention in case it is required.

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The new variant of COVID-19 has hit parts of Asia, cases have surged in Hong Kong and Singapore, and Thailand too has reported new cases. Amid all this, in India too, health authorities are monitoring the cases closely. While the numbers remain low, as compared to previous wave of COVID-19, certain Indian cities have reported low, but significant surge in infections.Two mild cases of Covid-19 have been reported in Gurgaon— a 62-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, both recently returned from Mumbai. District health officials, including Chief Medical Officer Dr. Alka Singh, assured that there’s no reason for alarm as both are in home isolation and recovering well.“This is now an endemic. Many with symptoms may test positive, but there’s no cause for panic,” Dr. Singh told reporters on Thursday.Meanwhile, a 28-year-old security guard from Faridabad tested positive at Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital during treatment for similar symptoms. None of the three individuals have recent foreign travel history or contact with known Covid-positive persons. Variant identification is pending further lab testing. MaharashtraIn May, Mumbai has reported 95 new cases of COVID-19. This has put the state's total number to 106 since January. The data is corroborated by the Maharashtra Health Department. Currently, at least 16 people are hospitalized, and most have been shifted from KEM Hospital to Seven Hills Hospital to curb the transmission. Authorities have also increased testing all patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) or with severe cute respiratory infection (SARI). The same patients are now being tested for COVID-19. Pune too is on high alert, though there are no active cases at the moment. The municipal officials have reserved 50 beds at Naidu Hospital as a precautionary measure. Dr Nina Borade, who is the health chief at Pune Municipal Corporation said, "We had only one patient in May - an 87-year-old from Manjari - who has since fully recovered," as reported by TOI.Dr Borade also noted that tests are not being conducted at any civic hospitals, however, the guidelines will be updated, as and when it is required. Tamil NaduThere has been a surge in cases in Tamil Nadu, with 12 new COVID-19 cases being reported in Puducherry. In Chennai too, doctors have reported a shift where fevers which were previously linked with influenza are now being linked to COVID-19. There is also a rise of COVID-19 cases among viral cases, and many of the patients who may have been diagnosed with influenza A or B, are now being checked for COVID-19 cases. TOI reported that the public health director Dr TS Selvavinayagam has told the public to not panic, however, he has urged them to remain cautious when in crowded spaces. KarnatakaAt this moment, Karnataka has confirmed 16 active cases of COVID-19. The data is corroborated by the state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.ALSO READ: Covid Cases Surge In Singapore: What Do We Know About The New Variant On The Loose? GujaratSeven cases as of now are detected in Ahmedabad. All these cases were detected on a single day, which made the city to witness an unusual spike in just one day, that has averaged just one cases per month over the past year. The 7 patients are kept in home isolation, and authorities have sent their samples for genomic testing. The state health officials on Thursday confirmed that among the 15 active cases in Gujarat, all of them are milder Omicron JN.1 variant. Singapore And Hong KongAs per the Ministry of Health, Singapore, the spike in cases is attributed to the new variant which may be on the loose - LF.7 and NB.1.8. These two are descendants of the JN.1 variant.The cases have also spiked in Hong Kong. Thus Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said that the rising COVID activity reached a 1-year high and have urged people to take precautions and receive an initial dose of COVID vaccine as soon as possible.The Ministry of Health, Singapore, informed, ""LF.7 and NB.1.8 are the main Covid-19 variants circulating in Signapore." They are the descendants of the JN.1 variant that is used in COVID-19 vaccines.What are The Symptoms Of This New Variant?The symptoms which are associated with this current Covid wave are a bit different from what we have seen before. While cough and sore throat are there, the symptoms also include nausea, vomiting, brain fog, and conjunctivitis.The symptoms however are mild. The experts have for now asked people to monitor their health and seek medical attention in case it is required.

india logs rise in new covid cases: here's all you need to know

Tanya Dutt

West Nile Virus Detected In UK Mosquitoes For The First Time- How You Can Protect Yourself?

Diseases Are Spreading Fast- But Why Isn’t The CDC Saying Anything?

diseases are spreading fast- but why isn’t the cdc saying anything?

Humid, Heat, And Untimely Heavy Rains Could Lead To These Health Concerns

humid, heat, and untimely heavy rains could lead to these health concerns

Measles Scare At Shakira Concert:  Can Infection Spread Through Touch?

measles scare at shakira concert:  can infection spread through touch?

For the first time, West Nile virus has been identified in mosquitoes in the United Kingdom, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The virus, spread mostly through mosquito bites, can lead to serious neurological disease in exceptional circumstances. Partial detection of the virus was made in Aedes vexans mosquitoes from Nottinghamshire wetlands during routine monitoring in July 2023. No human infections have been reported in the UK, but scientists attribute the outbreak of the virus to changing climate conditions favorable for the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.

While the danger to the wider population is presently estimated as "very low," officials contend the emergence of the virus in the region marks a watershed in the way climate change and globalization are recasting the map of infectious disease in temperate nations such as Britain.

The finding was made in July 2023 when scientists from the UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found pieces of West Nile virus in Aedes vexans mosquitoes sampled in wetlands along the River Idle in Nottinghamshire. Although no cases of local human infection have so far been reported, the finding is medically and scientifically significant.

This is the initial West Nile Virus detection in mosquitoes in the UK to date, but it is not surprising as the virus is already well established in Europe," said Dr. Meera Chand, UKHSA Deputy Director for Travel Health and Infections.

The mosquitoes that are infected are indigenous to the UK, but the virus itself—historically resident in warmer climates—has now discovered a route northwards, probably aided by rising temperatures and changing ecosystems. 

West Nile virus is a flavivirus that is mainly transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes acquire the virus through feeding on infected birds and transmit it to humans and horses.

Although most WNV infections are asymptomatic or present with mild flu-like symptoms, around 20% of infected individuals develop fever, headaches, skin rash, or joint pain. The disease can have more serious consequences in around 1 in 150 cases, developing into life-threatening neurological syndromes like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis.

There is no specific treatment or human vaccine available for WNV at present. Patients usually recover completely, but some can develop long-term consequences following severe infection.

<h2>How Does Climate Change Affect Disease Migration?</h2>

The appearance of WNV in British mosquitoes is a trend within a larger movement, and that movement is driven by climate change. As temperatures increase and rain patterns shift, the UK and other temperate climates are becoming increasingly welcoming to mosquito species previously limited to warmer climates.

Experts note that similar phenomena have already occurred with diseases like tick-borne encephalitis, which was recently detected in parts of the UK where it had not been previously endemic.

<h2>UKHSA’s Role and Public Health Surveillance</h2>

While no evidence yet suggests that WNV is circulating widely in UK bird or mosquito populations, the UKHSA has taken steps to prepare. They’ve issued guidelines for healthcare professionals to test patients presenting with unexplained encephalitis for West Nile virus.

Surveillance systems such as those utilized by the UKHSA and APHA play a crucial role in sending out early warnings, aiding in guiding public health measures and safeguarding communities. These systems track the activity of mosquitoes, monitor bird migration patterns, and identify likely outbreaks, providing a first line of defense against new health risks.

Wherever you are in the UK or visiting regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent, personal protection is still the best defense. Here's how you can minimize your risk:

Dress wisely: Avoid short sleeves and shorts, particularly around wetland or forest environments.

Use repellents: Insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin have been shown to repel mosquitoes.

Secure your environment: Close windows and doors or fit screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.

Eliminate breeding sites: Drain standing water from gardens, pots, and gutters where mosquitoes can lay eggs.

Be travel-aware: If traveling to areas that are known to have WNV—like regions in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas—exercise extra care and monitor health advisories. 

Check for ticks: When outside in grassy or wooded areas, perform a complete body scan for ticks that can also spread other infections.

The finding of West Nile virus in UK mosquitoes is not yet a public health crisis, but it is a wake-up call of absolute importance. With climate change disrupting ecosystems and wildlife habits, novel and previously extrinsic pathogens are gaining fertile ground in territories that were once thought safe.

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climate change health risks

mosquito prevention tips

For the first time, West Nile virus has been identified in mosquitoes in the United Kingdom, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The virus, spread mostly through mosquito bites, can lead to serious neurological disease in exceptional circumstances. Partial detection of the virus was made in Aedes vexans mosquitoes from Nottinghamshire wetlands during routine monitoring in July 2023. No human infections have been reported in the UK, but scientists attribute the outbreak of the virus to changing climate conditions favorable for the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases.While the danger to the wider population is presently estimated as "very low," officials contend the emergence of the virus in the region marks a watershed in the way climate change and globalization are recasting the map of infectious disease in temperate nations such as Britain.The finding was made in July 2023 when scientists from the UKHSA and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) found pieces of West Nile virus in Aedes vexans mosquitoes sampled in wetlands along the River Idle in Nottinghamshire. Although no cases of local human infection have so far been reported, the finding is medically and scientifically significant.This is the initial West Nile Virus detection in mosquitoes in the UK to date, but it is not surprising as the virus is already well established in Europe," said Dr. Meera Chand, UKHSA Deputy Director for Travel Health and Infections.The mosquitoes that are infected are indigenous to the UK, but the virus itself—historically resident in warmer climates—has now discovered a route northwards, probably aided by rising temperatures and changing ecosystems. What is West Nile Virus?West Nile virus is a flavivirus that is mainly transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes acquire the virus through feeding on infected birds and transmit it to humans and horses.Although most WNV infections are asymptomatic or present with mild flu-like symptoms, around 20% of infected individuals develop fever, headaches, skin rash, or joint pain. The disease can have more serious consequences in around 1 in 150 cases, developing into life-threatening neurological syndromes like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis.There is no specific treatment or human vaccine available for WNV at present. Patients usually recover completely, but some can develop long-term consequences following severe infection.How Does Climate Change Affect Disease Migration?The appearance of WNV in British mosquitoes is a trend within a larger movement, and that movement is driven by climate change. As temperatures increase and rain patterns shift, the UK and other temperate climates are becoming increasingly welcoming to mosquito species previously limited to warmer climates.Experts note that similar phenomena have already occurred with diseases like tick-borne encephalitis, which was recently detected in parts of the UK where it had not been previously endemic.UKHSA’s Role and Public Health SurveillanceWhile no evidence yet suggests that WNV is circulating widely in UK bird or mosquito populations, the UKHSA has taken steps to prepare. They’ve issued guidelines for healthcare professionals to test patients presenting with unexplained encephalitis for West Nile virus.Surveillance systems such as those utilized by the UKHSA and APHA play a crucial role in sending out early warnings, aiding in guiding public health measures and safeguarding communities. These systems track the activity of mosquitoes, monitor bird migration patterns, and identify likely outbreaks, providing a first line of defense against new health risks.How You Can Protect Yourself?Wherever you are in the UK or visiting regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent, personal protection is still the best defense. Here's how you can minimize your risk:Dress wisely: Avoid short sleeves and shorts, particularly around wetland or forest environments.Use repellents: Insect repellents with DEET or Picaridin have been shown to repel mosquitoes.Secure your environment: Close windows and doors or fit screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering.Eliminate breeding sites: Drain standing water from gardens, pots, and gutters where mosquitoes can lay eggs.Be travel-aware: If traveling to areas that are known to have WNV—like regions in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas—exercise extra care and monitor health advisories. Check for ticks: When outside in grassy or wooded areas, perform a complete body scan for ticks that can also spread other infections.The finding of West Nile virus in UK mosquitoes is not yet a public health crisis, but it is a wake-up call of absolute importance. With climate change disrupting ecosystems and wildlife habits, novel and previously extrinsic pathogens are gaining fertile ground in territories that were once thought safe.

west nile virus detected in uk mosquitoes for the first time- how you can protect yourself?

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IIIT-Delhi, French Team Develop AI Tool To Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance

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