Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Medical Memoir: Measles- The Unfinished Fight Against One Of The World’s Most Contagious Diseases

Medical Memoir: Measles - The Unfinished Fight Against One Of The World’s Most Contagious Diseases

<em>'<span rel="noindex">Medical Memoir</span>' is a Health &amp; Me series that delves into some of the most intriguing medical histories and unveils how medical innovations have evolved over time. Here, we trace the early stages of all things health, whether a vaccine, a treatment, a pill, or a cure.</em>

Maggie was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 2.5-year-old, fighting cancer at a young age, she survived after another two and half years of treatment, but it left her in a very vulnerable state. Her immune system took a big hit, even a common cold could be dangerous for her. 

What followed was Maggie’s parents' great efforts to ensure their child gets the best childhood, while making sure she stays safe. But no matter how safe you are or how much you try to keep your loved ones safe, things do not go as planned. Despite their efforts, during a routine visit to her oncologist, Maggie's parents were contacted about a <span>measles</span> case that was known to be in the clinic at the same time Maggie was. Every rash, cold or cough after that seemed like their nightmare come true, however, Maggie was lucky this time because she wasn’t infected. 

This is not just a story, but the reality of Dr. Tim Jack, who spoke to the Vaccinate Your Family initiative, urging people not just to vaccinate to take care of their children, but also to ensure the safety of everyone around them. But what significance does this story have for our health? What do we need to be aware of measles? 

A household name among diseases, measles, is considered to be one of the world’s most contagious diseases. Causing the deaths of millions, the disease impacts the respiratory tract and then slowly spreads throughout the body. Vaccination was the reason why we were able to control the disease in the 1960s, before which the estimated death each year was said to be 2.6 million death each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

<h2>How Old Is Measles?</h2>WHO states that the records of the disease can be traced back to the 9th century by a Persian doctor named Abū Bakr Muhammad Zakariyyā Rāzī. It became more common around the world starting in the 16th century as people traveled more. In 1757, a Scottish doctor named Francis Home discovered that measles was caused by a germ. He showed this by taking blood from sick people and giving the disease to healthy individuals. 

Places that had never seen the measles virus before were hit very hard. Outbreaks caused a lot of sickness and death in isolated communities, like the Faroe Islands in 1846, Hawai'i in 1848, Fiji in 1875, and Rotuma in 1911.

<h2>Root Cause Of Epidemics And Mass Death </h2>

Before vaccines, measles was always present around the world, causing epidemics. In richer countries, better healthcare and nutrition meant fewer people died from measles by the 20th century. While antibiotics couldn't fight the virus itself, they could help with complications like bacterial pneumonia. Still, common problems like ear infections, croup, diarrhea, and pneumonia led to thousands of hospital stays each year. A more serious complication, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), could cause brain damage, loss of hearing or sight, or even death. 

Globally, the death rates remained very high, with about 30 million cases and over 2 million deaths every year. 

In 1954, a <span>measles outbreak</span> at a boarding school near Boston gave doctors a chance to try and find the measles virus. They took samples from sick students. A doctor named Thomas Peebles successfully grew the virus from a sample taken from an 11-year-old boy named David Edmonston. This success allowed doctors to create the very first vaccine against measles. 

John Franklin Enders, who was Peebles's boss and is often called "the father of modern vaccines," developed the measles vaccine from a specific strain of the virus called 'Edmonston-B', named after David. This strain is still used today as the basis for most <span>measles vaccines</span>. 

Enders and his team tested the vaccine on small groups of children from 1958 to 1960. After that, they started larger trials with thousands of children in New York City and Nigeria. In 1961, the vaccine was declared 100% effective, and the first measles vaccine was approved for public use in 1963.

<h2>Global Vaccination Efforts Begin </h2>

Starting in the 1960s, individual countries began large-scale vaccination programs against measles. The first international measles vaccination efforts began in Africa in 1966. The World Health Organization (WHO) worked with governments in over 20 newly independent African countries, along with other organizations, to give vaccinations. Their goal was to control measles and also get rid of smallpox. 

Despite challenges, like keeping the heat-sensitive vaccine cold during transport and storage, these campaigns showed that vaccination worked against measles. By May 1967, The Gambia became the first country where the measles virus stopped spreading. 

In 1968, Dr. Maurice Hilleman, a key figure in vaccine development, created an improved measles vaccine. He weakened the virus by passing it through chick embryo cells 40 times. This resulted in a vaccine that caused fewer severe side effects. This weaker version, known as the Edmonston-Enders strain, led to some of the strains still used in measles vaccines today. 

In 1971, Hilleman combined the recently developed vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella into a single shot called the MMR vaccine. In 2005, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine was added to create the MMRV vaccine. Standalone measles vaccines are still available in many countries.

<h2>Worldwide Vaccination and Challenges </h2>

In 1974, measles was one of the first diseases targeted by the WHO when they started a program to expand vaccination efforts globally. Widespread childhood vaccination has dramatically reduced measles cases worldwide. WHO now suggests vaccinating babies at 9 months in areas where measles is common, and at 12–15 months in other areas. A second dose is recommended for all children, which is very important because about 15% of children don't get full protection from just one dose. 

<h2>Why High Vaccination Rates are Crucial?</h2>

Because measles spreads so easily, a very high percentage of people need to be immune (at least 95%) to prevent large outbreaks. If vaccination rates drop too low, outbreaks can happen again when the disease is brought back into a community. 

Besides the suffering measles causes, controlling outbreaks is expensive and takes resources away from other healthcare services. Measles deaths still occur in many countries, especially where vaccination programs have gaps. For example, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 7,800 people died from measles during an outbreak between 2018 and 2020, compared to 2,299 deaths from Ebola in the same period.

<h2>Eradication Efforts and Setbacks </h2>

The Americas region was declared free of endemic measles in 2016—the first WHO region to achieve this. However, this status was lost two years later due to a measles outbreak. This outbreak started because of a crisis in one country that led to gaps in vaccination and slow response. The virus then spread to neighboring countries, where it was eventually controlled. 

To address these issues, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has been training countries on how to quickly respond to prevent measles and rubella from spreading, improving disease tracking, and launching new, high-quality follow-up vaccination campaigns. 

Between 2000 and 2023, measles vaccination prevented over 60 million deaths worldwide. However, despite having a safe and affordable vaccine, global measles deaths continued to rise before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, there were over 207,000 measles deaths globally, which was the highest number of reported cases in 23 years.

<h2>Is Measles Still A Cause Of Concern? </h2>

According to Harvard Health as of July 2025, there have been 1,288 confirmed measles cases across 38 states in the US, primarily among children. This is the highest number of cases since 2000, the year measles was declared eliminated in the country. 

This rise in cases is mainly because fewer people are getting vaccinated. Across the country, measles vaccination rates for school kids dropped from 95% in 2019 to 92% in 2023. In some areas where outbreaks are happening, like parts of west Texas, the vaccination rate is as low as 82%. This leaves many people unprotected. A big reason for the current cases is that 96% of recent infections were in people who weren't vaccinated or hadn't completed their shots. 

As the history shows, measles outbreaks can be stopped. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is very effective, with two doses providing 97% protection, and it's very safe. Side effects are usually mild, like a sore arm or low fever. The false idea that vaccines cause autism has been proven wrong, but this misinformation has made some people hesitant to get vaccinated. 

As a responsible citizen, one must ensure they keep in touch with healthcare professionals and keep the safety of their loved ones as well as everybody else around them. 

Health Conditions A-Z

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Measles

Medical Memoir

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'Medical Memoir' is a Health & Me series that delves into some of the most intriguing medical histories and unveils how medical innovations have evolved over time. Here, we trace the early stages of all things health, whether a vaccine, a treatment, a pill, or a cure.Maggie was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 2.5-year-old, fighting cancer at a young age, she survived after another two and half years of treatment, but it left her in a very vulnerable state. Her immune system took a big hit, even a common cold could be dangerous for her. What followed was Maggie’s parents' great efforts to ensure their child gets the best childhood, while making sure she stays safe. But no matter how safe you are or how much you try to keep your loved ones safe, things do not go as planned. Despite their efforts, during a routine visit to her oncologist, Maggie's parents were contacted about a measles case that was known to be in the clinic at the same time Maggie was. Every rash, cold or cough after that seemed like their nightmare come true, however, Maggie was lucky this time because she wasn’t infected. This is not just a story, but the reality of Dr. Tim Jack, who spoke to the Vaccinate Your Family initiative, urging people not just to vaccinate to take care of their children, but also to ensure the safety of everyone around them. But what significance does this story have for our health? What do we need to be aware of measles? A household name among diseases, measles, is considered to be one of the world’s most contagious diseases. Causing the deaths of millions, the disease impacts the respiratory tract and then slowly spreads throughout the body. Vaccination was the reason why we were able to control the disease in the 1960s, before which the estimated death each year was said to be 2.6 million death each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).How Old Is Measles?WHO states that the records of the disease can be traced back to the 9th century by a Persian doctor named Abū Bakr Muhammad Zakariyyā Rāzī. It became more common around the world starting in the 16th century as people traveled more. In 1757, a Scottish doctor named Francis Home discovered that measles was caused by a germ. He showed this by taking blood from sick people and giving the disease to healthy individuals. Places that had never seen the measles virus before were hit very hard. Outbreaks caused a lot of sickness and death in isolated communities, like the Faroe Islands in 1846, Hawai'i in 1848, Fiji in 1875, and Rotuma in 1911.Root Cause Of Epidemics And Mass Death Before vaccines, measles was always present around the world, causing epidemics. In richer countries, better healthcare and nutrition meant fewer people died from measles by the 20th century. While antibiotics couldn't fight the virus itself, they could help with complications like bacterial pneumonia. Still, common problems like ear infections, croup, diarrhea, and pneumonia led to thousands of hospital stays each year. A more serious complication, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), could cause brain damage, loss of hearing or sight, or even death. Globally, the death rates remained very high, with about 30 million cases and over 2 million deaths every year. The First Measles Vaccine In 1954, a measles outbreak at a boarding school near Boston gave doctors a chance to try and find the measles virus. They took samples from sick students. A doctor named Thomas Peebles successfully grew the virus from a sample taken from an 11-year-old boy named David Edmonston. This success allowed doctors to create the very first vaccine against measles. John Franklin Enders, who was Peebles's boss and is often called "the father of modern vaccines," developed the measles vaccine from a specific strain of the virus called 'Edmonston-B', named after David. This strain is still used today as the basis for most measles vaccines. Enders and his team tested the vaccine on small groups of children from 1958 to 1960. After that, they started larger trials with thousands of children in New York City and Nigeria. In 1961, the vaccine was declared 100% effective, and the first measles vaccine was approved for public use in 1963.Global Vaccination Efforts Begin Starting in the 1960s, individual countries began large-scale vaccination programs against measles. The first international measles vaccination efforts began in Africa in 1966. The World Health Organization (WHO) worked with governments in over 20 newly independent African countries, along with other organizations, to give vaccinations. Their goal was to control measles and also get rid of smallpox. Despite challenges, like keeping the heat-sensitive vaccine cold during transport and storage, these campaigns showed that vaccination worked against measles. By May 1967, The Gambia became the first country where the measles virus stopped spreading. In 1968, Dr. Maurice Hilleman, a key figure in vaccine development, created an improved measles vaccine. He weakened the virus by passing it through chick embryo cells 40 times. This resulted in a vaccine that caused fewer severe side effects. This weaker version, known as the Edmonston-Enders strain, led to some of the strains still used in measles vaccines today. In 1971, Hilleman combined the recently developed vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella into a single shot called the MMR vaccine. In 2005, the chickenpox (varicella) vaccine was added to create the MMRV vaccine. Standalone measles vaccines are still available in many countries.Worldwide Vaccination and Challenges In 1974, measles was one of the first diseases targeted by the WHO when they started a program to expand vaccination efforts globally. Widespread childhood vaccination has dramatically reduced measles cases worldwide. WHO now suggests vaccinating babies at 9 months in areas where measles is common, and at 12–15 months in other areas. A second dose is recommended for all children, which is very important because about 15% of children don't get full protection from just one dose. Why High Vaccination Rates are Crucial?Because measles spreads so easily, a very high percentage of people need to be immune (at least 95%) to prevent large outbreaks. If vaccination rates drop too low, outbreaks can happen again when the disease is brought back into a community. Besides the suffering measles causes, controlling outbreaks is expensive and takes resources away from other healthcare services. Measles deaths still occur in many countries, especially where vaccination programs have gaps. For example, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 7,800 people died from measles during an outbreak between 2018 and 2020, compared to 2,299 deaths from Ebola in the same period.Eradication Efforts and Setbacks The Americas region was declared free of endemic measles in 2016—the first WHO region to achieve this. However, this status was lost two years later due to a measles outbreak. This outbreak started because of a crisis in one country that led to gaps in vaccination and slow response. The virus then spread to neighboring countries, where it was eventually controlled. To address these issues, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has been training countries on how to quickly respond to prevent measles and rubella from spreading, improving disease tracking, and launching new, high-quality follow-up vaccination campaigns. Between 2000 and 2023, measles vaccination prevented over 60 million deaths worldwide. However, despite having a safe and affordable vaccine, global measles deaths continued to rise before the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, there were over 207,000 measles deaths globally, which was the highest number of reported cases in 23 years.Is Measles Still A Cause Of Concern? According to Harvard Health as of July 2025, there have been 1,288 confirmed measles cases across 38 states in the US, primarily among children. This is the highest number of cases since 2000, the year measles was declared eliminated in the country. This rise in cases is mainly because fewer people are getting vaccinated. Across the country, measles vaccination rates for school kids dropped from 95% in 2019 to 92% in 2023. In some areas where outbreaks are happening, like parts of west Texas, the vaccination rate is as low as 82%. This leaves many people unprotected. A big reason for the current cases is that 96% of recent infections were in people who weren't vaccinated or hadn't completed their shots. As the history shows, measles outbreaks can be stopped. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) is very effective, with two doses providing 97% protection, and it's very safe. Side effects are usually mild, like a sore arm or low fever. The false idea that vaccines cause autism has been proven wrong, but this misinformation has made some people hesitant to get vaccinated. As a responsible citizen, one must ensure they keep in touch with healthcare professionals and keep the safety of their loved ones as well as everybody else around them. 

medical memoir: measles - the unfinished fight against one of the world’s most contagious diseases

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Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the most common yet misunderstood autoimmune disorders in the world today. It’s often brushed off as a “dry eye and dry mouth” condition, but what many don’t realize is that this chronic, systemic illness can severely affect multiple organs—sometimes leading to irreversible complications. With July 23 marking World Sjögren’s Day, experts are urging for more awareness, earlier diagnosis, and a patient-first approach to treatment.

World Sjögren’s Day is observed every year on July 23, to honor Dr. Henrik Sjögren—the Swedish ophthalmologist who first identified the condition in 1933. The day is not just symbolic. It’s a global movement to educate the public, highlight patient voices, and push for research and policy changes.

The 2025 theme “Awareness Through Research” puts the spotlight on how patients—when given the space to share their experiences—can drive scientific breakthroughs and better clinical outcomes.

Sjögren’s Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells—primarily the moisture-producing glands. Most commonly, this results in dry eyes and dry mouth, but Sjögren’s doesn’t stop there. It can also affect other parts of the body including the joints, lungs, kidneys, nerves, digestive system, and even the skin.

The condition is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late because its symptoms—like fatigue, burning eyes, or trouble swallowing—are frequently dismissed as signs of aging, stress, or dehydration. That delay in diagnosis can be dangerous, since Sjögren’s is also linked to a higher risk of lymphoma, a type of cancer.

It affects an estimated 4 million people in the U.S., mostly women over 40, though it can occur at any age. While there is no cure, early detection and a coordinated care approach can significantly improve quality of life and prevent long-term damage.

In the U.S. alone, an estimated 4 million people live with Sjögren’s. Yet, for most patients, getting diagnosed takes 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer. Dr. Pawan Gupta, Senior Cataract &amp; Retina Surgeon, explains why, “Symptoms like dry eyes, fatigue or dry mouth are so common, they’re often misattributed to dehydration, stress, screen time or aging. This leads to delayed referrals and misdiagnoses.”

That delay is costly, Sjögren’s doesn’t just stay in the eyes and mouth—it can quietly affect lungs, kidneys, nerves, joints and even increase the risk of lymphoma.

<h2>What are the early signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome?</h2>

While every case is different, the most reported symptoms include:

<ul><li>Persistent dry eyes or burning sensation</li><li>Dry mouth and difficulty swallowing</li><li>Chronic fatigue</li><li>Joint pain</li><li>Dental cavities or oral infections</li><li>Vaginal dryness</li><li>Brain fog or memory lapses</li></ul>

These may seem harmless at first—but when ignored, they point to a deeper autoimmune imbalance that can worsen with time.

<h2>Why Sjögren’s Isn’t Just a ‘Mild Autoimmune Condition’?</h2>

Sjogren’s Syndrome is often mistakenly believed to be a mild autoimmune disease because the early symptoms, dry eyes and dry mouth, seem harmless and are easily overlooked. Dr Pawan says, "This disease can be anything but minor. It is a systemic autoimmune disorder that results when the body's immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, namely the lacrimal ) and salivary glands. This can lead to serious complications, involving multiple organs, over time, it goes from discomfort to widespread complications."

Sjogren's progresses to potentially affect the lungs, kidneys, joints, nerves, and gastrointestinal system. "Many patients also suffer from chronic fatigue, debilitating pain in their joints and an increased risk for lymphoma. The complexity of the condition may require a multi-specialty approach that involves a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist and pulmonologist. The perception that Sjogren’s is a benign condition, means that aggressive management is delayed and can potentially deprive patients of optimal quality of life. Time is of the essence for early intervention to stop irreversible damage, especially to the eyes and internal organs. Sjögren’s should be viewed as a serious, chronic and often progressive disease requiring long-term comprehensive care management," adds Dr Pawan.

<h2>Does Sjögren’s Syndrome Takes Years to Diagnose?</h2>

Sjögren’s Syndrome can take many years to identify, and Dr Gupta evidently explains, "Since the early symptoms of dry mouth, dry eyes, and mild fatigue could be easily ascribed to more common and easily explained reasons such as dehydration, adverse effects of medications, or just aging. Physicians might not think of the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder without other obvious pertinent reasons or signs. In addition, these early symptoms might accompany other disorders and clinical conditions, making other relevant areas of differential diagnosis difficult."

Initially in their disease, most of the general physicians they visit would not recognize the underlying immune dysfunction and that treating the symptoms may be treating the symptoms only. Another aspect that doesn't make diagnosis easier is the process to obtain a definitive diagnosis. There is not a single definitive test for Sjögren’s. Most patients receive a diagnosis following a battery of lab tests, eye exams, imaging, or biopsies of salivary glands and extensive history, simultaneously and serologically completing the diagnostic picture. As Sjogren progresses slowly, there may not be systemic problems until much later in the disease, delaying diagnosis even longer. 

"Delaying the diagnosis of Sjogren’s means the patients will suffer for a longer period and are at increased risk from complications due to it being an auto-immune disorder. Increasing awareness about early symptoms of patients and having physicians diagnosing and referring to rheumatologists may assist in achieving timely diagnosis and management of this complex disease," emphasises Dr Gupta.

<h2>Does Dry Eyes Become a Progressive, Permanent Risk for Sjögren’s Syndrome?</h2>

Yes, if untreated, dry eyes can become a progressive and potentially permanent problem for those with Sjogren's Syndrome. In Sjogren's Syndrome, the immune system attacks the lacrimal glands and dramatically decreases the production of tears. When that happens, the natural tear film that protects and nourishes your eye can become unstable, leading to certain ocular issues such as irritation, blurred vision, burning, and potentially corneal damage in long-standing situations. 

As a result of untreated dryness, chronic dryness leads to long-term complications in many cases. Serious complications range from corneal ulcers, corneal infections, and lastly, permanent vision loss. Dr Gupta points out, "Treatment for dry eyes in Sjogren's starts with frequent artificial tear use to keep your eye surface moist. In more progressive cases, punctal plugs may assist in holding your natural tears by blocking the drainage through your tear ducts. It is important to follow up regularly with your eye care specialist. Since Sjogren's is progressive, it is good practice to take proactive and continued care of your eyes to preserve vision as well as prevent irreversible damage."

<h2>What are the Treatment Options for Sjögren’s today?</h2>

There is no cure, but a multi-specialty approach helps manage symptoms and slow progression:

For dry eyes: Artificial tears, prescription anti-inflammatories, punctal plugs

For dry mouth: Saliva substitutes, sugar-free lozenges, good oral hygiene, regular dental care

Systemic symptoms: Hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants

Lifestyle adjustments: Hydration, humidifiers, avoiding triggers (like alcohol or caffeine), and pacing energy

Patients often need coordination between a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist, dentist, ENT and sometimes neurologist.

What makes the 2025 theme ‘Awareness Through Research’ important?

This year’s theme recognizes that real progress in Sjögren’s research has come from patients who speak up.

Their stories are shaping new clinical trials, earlier screening tools, and even new drug development. Salivary gland imaging, lab biomarkers, and tear analysis are all becoming more advanced thanks to this growing patient-led momentum.

If you're experiencing persistent dry eyes, dry mouth, or crushing fatigue, don’t dismiss it—and don’t let others dismiss it either. If symptoms don’t improve or begin to cluster, especially with joint pain or swelling, ask your doctor directly about a referral to a rheumatologist. Early intervention can change the course of this disease.

For doctors, it’s time to challenge the common assumptions. Not every case of dry eyes stems from excessive screen time or aging. If your patient presents with multiple vague, systemic complaints—dryness, fatigue, brain fog—consider Sjögren’s syndrome early, rather than as a diagnosis of exclusion.

For the public, awareness is everything. Most people with Sjögren’s don’t “look sick", but behind the scenes, they’re managing a complex, exhausting autoimmune condition daily. Sjögren’s may be quiet, but it’s not mild. It deserves sharper clinical attention, more robust support systems, and far greater visibility in the conversation around chronic illness.

world sjogren day

sjogren syndrome symptoms

autoimmune disease awareness

world sjogren day 2025

dry eyes fatigue cause

sjogren diagnosis

chronic autoimmune illness

invisible illness awareness

Sjögren’s Syndrome is one of the most common yet misunderstood autoimmune disorders in the world today. It’s often brushed off as a “dry eye and dry mouth” condition, but what many don’t realize is that this chronic, systemic illness can severely affect multiple organs—sometimes leading to irreversible complications. With July 23 marking World Sjögren’s Day, experts are urging for more awareness, earlier diagnosis, and a patient-first approach to treatment.World Sjögren’s Day is observed every year on July 23, to honor Dr. Henrik Sjögren—the Swedish ophthalmologist who first identified the condition in 1933. The day is not just symbolic. It’s a global movement to educate the public, highlight patient voices, and push for research and policy changes.The 2025 theme “Awareness Through Research” puts the spotlight on how patients—when given the space to share their experiences—can drive scientific breakthroughs and better clinical outcomes.What is Sjogren's Disease?Sjögren’s Disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells—primarily the moisture-producing glands. Most commonly, this results in dry eyes and dry mouth, but Sjögren’s doesn’t stop there. It can also affect other parts of the body including the joints, lungs, kidneys, nerves, digestive system, and even the skin.The condition is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed late because its symptoms—like fatigue, burning eyes, or trouble swallowing—are frequently dismissed as signs of aging, stress, or dehydration. That delay in diagnosis can be dangerous, since Sjögren’s is also linked to a higher risk of lymphoma, a type of cancer.It affects an estimated 4 million people in the U.S., mostly women over 40, though it can occur at any age. While there is no cure, early detection and a coordinated care approach can significantly improve quality of life and prevent long-term damage.In the U.S. alone, an estimated 4 million people live with Sjögren’s. Yet, for most patients, getting diagnosed takes 3 to 5 years, sometimes longer. Dr. Pawan Gupta, Senior Cataract & Retina Surgeon, explains why, “Symptoms like dry eyes, fatigue or dry mouth are so common, they’re often misattributed to dehydration, stress, screen time or aging. This leads to delayed referrals and misdiagnoses.”That delay is costly, Sjögren’s doesn’t just stay in the eyes and mouth—it can quietly affect lungs, kidneys, nerves, joints and even increase the risk of lymphoma.What are the early signs and symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome?While every case is different, the most reported symptoms include:Persistent dry eyes or burning sensationDry mouth and difficulty swallowingChronic fatigueJoint painDental cavities or oral infectionsVaginal drynessBrain fog or memory lapsesThese may seem harmless at first—but when ignored, they point to a deeper autoimmune imbalance that can worsen with time.Why Sjögren’s Isn’t Just a ‘Mild Autoimmune Condition’?Sjogren’s Syndrome is often mistakenly believed to be a mild autoimmune disease because the early symptoms, dry eyes and dry mouth, seem harmless and are easily overlooked. Dr Pawan says, "This disease can be anything but minor. It is a systemic autoimmune disorder that results when the body's immune system attacks the glands that produce moisture, namely the lacrimal ) and salivary glands. This can lead to serious complications, involving multiple organs, over time, it goes from discomfort to widespread complications."Sjogren's progresses to potentially affect the lungs, kidneys, joints, nerves, and gastrointestinal system. "Many patients also suffer from chronic fatigue, debilitating pain in their joints and an increased risk for lymphoma. The complexity of the condition may require a multi-specialty approach that involves a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist and pulmonologist. The perception that Sjogren’s is a benign condition, means that aggressive management is delayed and can potentially deprive patients of optimal quality of life. Time is of the essence for early intervention to stop irreversible damage, especially to the eyes and internal organs. Sjögren’s should be viewed as a serious, chronic and often progressive disease requiring long-term comprehensive care management," adds Dr Pawan.Does Sjögren’s Syndrome Takes Years to Diagnose?Sjögren’s Syndrome can take many years to identify, and Dr Gupta evidently explains, "Since the early symptoms of dry mouth, dry eyes, and mild fatigue could be easily ascribed to more common and easily explained reasons such as dehydration, adverse effects of medications, or just aging. Physicians might not think of the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder without other obvious pertinent reasons or signs. In addition, these early symptoms might accompany other disorders and clinical conditions, making other relevant areas of differential diagnosis difficult."Initially in their disease, most of the general physicians they visit would not recognize the underlying immune dysfunction and that treating the symptoms may be treating the symptoms only. Another aspect that doesn't make diagnosis easier is the process to obtain a definitive diagnosis. There is not a single definitive test for Sjögren’s. Most patients receive a diagnosis following a battery of lab tests, eye exams, imaging, or biopsies of salivary glands and extensive history, simultaneously and serologically completing the diagnostic picture. As Sjogren progresses slowly, there may not be systemic problems until much later in the disease, delaying diagnosis even longer. "Delaying the diagnosis of Sjogren’s means the patients will suffer for a longer period and are at increased risk from complications due to it being an auto-immune disorder. Increasing awareness about early symptoms of patients and having physicians diagnosing and referring to rheumatologists may assist in achieving timely diagnosis and management of this complex disease," emphasises Dr Gupta.Does Dry Eyes Become a Progressive, Permanent Risk for Sjögren’s Syndrome?Yes, if untreated, dry eyes can become a progressive and potentially permanent problem for those with Sjogren's Syndrome. In Sjogren's Syndrome, the immune system attacks the lacrimal glands and dramatically decreases the production of tears. When that happens, the natural tear film that protects and nourishes your eye can become unstable, leading to certain ocular issues such as irritation, blurred vision, burning, and potentially corneal damage in long-standing situations. As a result of untreated dryness, chronic dryness leads to long-term complications in many cases. Serious complications range from corneal ulcers, corneal infections, and lastly, permanent vision loss. Dr Gupta points out, "Treatment for dry eyes in Sjogren's starts with frequent artificial tear use to keep your eye surface moist. In more progressive cases, punctal plugs may assist in holding your natural tears by blocking the drainage through your tear ducts. It is important to follow up regularly with your eye care specialist. Since Sjogren's is progressive, it is good practice to take proactive and continued care of your eyes to preserve vision as well as prevent irreversible damage."What are the Treatment Options for Sjögren’s today?There is no cure, but a multi-specialty approach helps manage symptoms and slow progression:For dry eyes: Artificial tears, prescription anti-inflammatories, punctal plugsFor dry mouth: Saliva substitutes, sugar-free lozenges, good oral hygiene, regular dental careSystemic symptoms: Hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, immunosuppressantsLifestyle adjustments: Hydration, humidifiers, avoiding triggers (like alcohol or caffeine), and pacing energyPatients often need coordination between a rheumatologist, ophthalmologist, dentist, ENT and sometimes neurologist.What makes the 2025 theme ‘Awareness Through Research’ important?This year’s theme recognizes that real progress in Sjögren’s research has come from patients who speak up.Their stories are shaping new clinical trials, earlier screening tools, and even new drug development. Salivary gland imaging, lab biomarkers, and tear analysis are all becoming more advanced thanks to this growing patient-led momentum.If you're experiencing persistent dry eyes, dry mouth, or crushing fatigue, don’t dismiss it—and don’t let others dismiss it either. If symptoms don’t improve or begin to cluster, especially with joint pain or swelling, ask your doctor directly about a referral to a rheumatologist. Early intervention can change the course of this disease.For doctors, it’s time to challenge the common assumptions. Not every case of dry eyes stems from excessive screen time or aging. If your patient presents with multiple vague, systemic complaints—dryness, fatigue, brain fog—consider Sjögren’s syndrome early, rather than as a diagnosis of exclusion.For the public, awareness is everything. Most people with Sjögren’s don’t “look sick", but behind the scenes, they’re managing a complex, exhausting autoimmune condition daily. Sjögren’s may be quiet, but it’s not mild. It deserves sharper clinical attention, more robust support systems, and far greater visibility in the conversation around chronic illness.

world sjogren’s day 2025: theme, significance and why this “mild” autoimmune condition can be life-altering

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Your Brain May Have Aged During The Pandemic, Even Without Getting COVID

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Making This Small Change While Walking Could Strengthen And Counter Frailty In Seniors

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do not give your kids smartphones until they are this age – study discourages early smartphone access

Work has slowly become of the most time-consuming things a person goes through as an adult. As a working adult in society, it has become a norm to spend about 40% of your day dedicated to your job. That’s why weekends are a sacred part of corporate culture. Two days out of the whole week to relax and rejuvenate yourself for the next week. While many companies are considering six-day work weeks, studies show that four days' work is enough. 

Workers at companies that switched to a four-day work week found many positive changes. These employees worked 80% of their usual hours but still got the same pay. They reported feeling much less burned out (like feeling completely drained from work). They also felt more satisfied with their jobs, meaning they liked their work more. On top of that, their <span>mental health</span> improved, and they even noticed small improvements in their physical health. The biggest boosts were seen in how they felt about their work and their mental well-being. 

<h2>How Did Shorter Work-Weeks Help? </h2>

To figure this out, researchers conducted trials that lasted six months. They looked at nearly 2,900 employees from 141 different businesses and organizations. These companies were located in various countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K., Ireland, and the U.S., all of whom decided to try out the four-day work week. To see if the changes were really due to the shorter week, the researchers also compared these employees to about 290 workers at 12 other companies that kept their regular five-day work schedule. 

The study found that, on average, employees who went to a four-day week worked five fewer hours each week. The results were even better for those who cut down their work week by eight hours or more—they saw bigger drops in burnout and bigger increases in job satisfaction and mental health compared to people still working five days. But even workers who didn't get a full day off still felt some positive effects, just a little smaller. This showed that there's a direct connection: the more hours you work less, the better you feel. 

Researchers believe that the improvements seen in employees on a four-day work week can be explained by a few things. People were getting better sleep, becoming more effective at their jobs, and feeling less tired. The study suggests that this new way of working helped people change how they did their tasks. It encouraged them to work together to find better, more efficient ways to get things done. This made employees feel more capable and better about their work overall. 

In short, when a whole company reduces work hours, it can motivate everyone to work smarter and improve their processes. This leads to better performance and happier, healthier employees. However, the researchers did point out one important thing: the companies that took part in the study were already interested in trying a four-day work week. This means they might have already been more focused on their employees' well-being from the very beginning. To be sure these benefits apply everywhere, more studies are needed with a wider variety of companies. 

<h2>Protecting Your Worker’s Mental Health Goes A Long Way </h2>

Supporting mental health at work means making sure everyone, especially those in charge like managers, knows how to spot and act on mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization, this is how investing in your worker’s mental health helps, 

This helps managers understand and respond to employees who are struggling emotionally. It also teaches them important communication skills like talking openly and really listening. Managers will also learn how job stress affects mental health and how to handle it better. 

<h4>Mental Health Training for All Workers </h4>

This training aims to improve everyone's understanding of mental health and reduce the negative feelings or judgment (stigma) often associated with mental health conditions at work. 

This involves giving people ways to build skills for managing stress and reducing symptoms of mental health issues. This can include counseling or therapy, and even encouraging activities like exercise during free time. 

Mental health

Four Day Work Week

Four Day Work Week Benefits

Workers Mental Health

Shorter Work Week better mental health

Protecting Your Workers Mental Health

Work has slowly become of the most time-consuming things a person goes through as an adult. As a working adult in society, it has become a norm to spend about 40% of your day dedicated to your job. That’s why weekends are a sacred part of corporate culture. Two days out of the whole week to relax and rejuvenate yourself for the next week. While many companies are considering six-day work weeks, studies show that four days' work is enough. Workers at companies that switched to a four-day work week found many positive changes. These employees worked 80% of their usual hours but still got the same pay. They reported feeling much less burned out (like feeling completely drained from work). They also felt more satisfied with their jobs, meaning they liked their work more. On top of that, their mental health improved, and they even noticed small improvements in their physical health. The biggest boosts were seen in how they felt about their work and their mental well-being. How Did Shorter Work-Weeks Help? To figure this out, researchers conducted trials that lasted six months. They looked at nearly 2,900 employees from 141 different businesses and organizations. These companies were located in various countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K., Ireland, and the U.S., all of whom decided to try out the four-day work week. To see if the changes were really due to the shorter week, the researchers also compared these employees to about 290 workers at 12 other companies that kept their regular five-day work schedule. The study found that, on average, employees who went to a four-day week worked five fewer hours each week. The results were even better for those who cut down their work week by eight hours or more—they saw bigger drops in burnout and bigger increases in job satisfaction and mental health compared to people still working five days. But even workers who didn't get a full day off still felt some positive effects, just a little smaller. This showed that there's a direct connection: the more hours you work less, the better you feel. Why It Works Researchers believe that the improvements seen in employees on a four-day work week can be explained by a few things. People were getting better sleep, becoming more effective at their jobs, and feeling less tired. The study suggests that this new way of working helped people change how they did their tasks. It encouraged them to work together to find better, more efficient ways to get things done. This made employees feel more capable and better about their work overall. In short, when a whole company reduces work hours, it can motivate everyone to work smarter and improve their processes. This leads to better performance and happier, healthier employees. However, the researchers did point out one important thing: the companies that took part in the study were already interested in trying a four-day work week. This means they might have already been more focused on their employees' well-being from the very beginning. To be sure these benefits apply everywhere, more studies are needed with a wider variety of companies. Protecting Your Worker’s Mental Health Goes A Long Way Supporting mental health at work means making sure everyone, especially those in charge like managers, knows how to spot and act on mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization, this is how investing in your worker’s mental health helps, Training for Managers This helps managers understand and respond to employees who are struggling emotionally. It also teaches them important communication skills like talking openly and really listening. Managers will also learn how job stress affects mental health and how to handle it better. Mental Health Training for All Workers This training aims to improve everyone's understanding of mental health and reduce the negative feelings or judgment (stigma) often associated with mental health conditions at work. Support for Individuals This involves giving people ways to build skills for managing stress and reducing symptoms of mental health issues. This can include counseling or therapy, and even encouraging activities like exercise during free time. 

four-day work week benefit goes both ways - why companies should invest in worker’s mental health

Millions At Risk As Chikungunya Virus Threatens Global Health, Warns WHO; Can A Mosquito Bite In Monsoon Trigger Severe Symptoms?

Contagious Measles Virus Found In Austin Wastewater; How Water Could Accelerate The Outbreak?

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a grim warning about a large-scale outbreak of the chikungunya virus is gaining speed—and the initial symptoms are ominously reminiscent. In comparison to the catastrophic 2004–2005 epidemic that started in the Indian Ocean region and later reached hundreds of thousands of people all over the world, WHO experts are calling on governments to take action before the same repeats itself.

Dr. Diana Rojas Alvarez, WHO’s technical lead for chikungunya, told reporters in Geneva that the virus is now being detected in 119 countries, putting 5.6 billion people at risk. The warning is not hypothetical. Already in 2025, regions like Réunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius have seen major outbreaks. In Réunion alone, nearly one-third of the population is estimated to have been infected.

What’s different this time is the potential for global scale and speed, thanks to interconnected travel, shifting climates, and growing populations of virus-carrying mosquitoes. And while the name “chikungunya” may not be widely known outside scientific circles, its impact can be life-altering—if not deadly.

Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), typically transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and Zika viruses. These insects bite mostly during the daytime with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

The virus causes sudden onset of high fever, intense joint pain, headaches, rash, and muscle aches. The joint pain can become so severe that it bends sufferers into contorted postures—an origin of the disease’s name, which comes from a Makonde word meaning “that which bends up.”

While the majority of patients recover within a week, some symptoms—particularly joint pain—can persist for months or even years. In rare cases, chikungunya can cause neurological, cardiac or ophthalmic complications. Newborns, older adults and those with chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe disease or death.

Although the case fatality rate remains under 1%, WHO warns that large-scale outbreaks could mean thousands of deaths, especially in countries with under-resourced health systems.

According to WHO, the trajectory of the current outbreaks strangely mirrors that of the 2004–2005 epidemic. It began in small island nations before spreading across the Indian Ocean and into Asia, Africa and beyond. Today, similar trends are being observed with:

<ul><li>Réunion has reported over 51,000 cases as of May 2025</li><li>Mayotte, another French territory, has recorded 560 cases, pushing it into an epidemic phase</li><li>Madagascar, Somalia, and Kenya are now reporting new clusters</li><li>South Asia is experiencing epidemic-level transmission</li><li>France has confirmed 30 local cases across 12 regions, with the largest cluster in Salon-de-Provence</li><li>Italy reported its first locally acquired case since 2017 in Piacenza</li></ul>

Even countries like Portugal have reported dengue and chikungunya cases in 2025, highlighting how climate change and international travel are making vector-borne illnesses harder to contain.

Dr. Rojas Alvarez emphasized, “We are raising the alarm early so countries can prepare early—strengthening detection, prevention, and response systems is key.”

<h2>Why Europe and the US Should Pay Attention?</h2>

For decades, chikungunya was seen as a “tropical” disease, limited to warmer parts of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

The Aedes albopictus, or tiger mosquito, is expanding its range northward due to warming temperatures and human-driven climate change. These mosquitoes have already become established in parts of southern Europe and even the southeastern United States. And with imported cases from travelers on the rise, localized outbreaks are becoming increasingly plausible.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recently launched updated guidance on mosquito-borne illnesses and emphasized the growing risk of local transmission. In addition to chikungunya, local dengue cases have been reported in Italy, France and Portugal in 2025.

<h2>How Can People Protect Themselves?</h2>

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a grim warning about a large-scale outbreak of the chikungunya virus is gaining speed—and the initial symptoms are ominously reminiscent. In comparison to the catastrophic 2004–2005 epidemic that started in the Indian Ocean region and later reached hundreds of thousands of people all over the world, WHO experts are calling on governments to take action before the same repeats itself.Dr. Diana Rojas Alvarez, WHO’s technical lead for chikungunya, told reporters in Geneva that the virus is now being detected in 119 countries, putting 5.6 billion people at risk. The warning is not hypothetical. Already in 2025, regions like Réunion, Mayotte, and Mauritius have seen major outbreaks. In Réunion alone, nearly one-third of the population is estimated to have been infected.What’s different this time is the potential for global scale and speed, thanks to interconnected travel, shifting climates, and growing populations of virus-carrying mosquitoes. And while the name “chikungunya” may not be widely known outside scientific circles, its impact can be life-altering—if not deadly.Why Is Chikungunya Dangerous?Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral illness caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), typically transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, the same mosquitoes that spread dengue and Zika viruses. These insects bite mostly during the daytime with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.The virus causes sudden onset of high fever, intense joint pain, headaches, rash, and muscle aches. The joint pain can become so severe that it bends sufferers into contorted postures—an origin of the disease’s name, which comes from a Makonde word meaning “that which bends up.”While the majority of patients recover within a week, some symptoms—particularly joint pain—can persist for months or even years. In rare cases, chikungunya can cause neurological, cardiac or ophthalmic complications. Newborns, older adults and those with chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe disease or death.Although the case fatality rate remains under 1%, WHO warns that large-scale outbreaks could mean thousands of deaths, especially in countries with under-resourced health systems.According to WHO, the trajectory of the current outbreaks strangely mirrors that of the 2004–2005 epidemic. It began in small island nations before spreading across the Indian Ocean and into Asia, Africa and beyond. Today, similar trends are being observed with:Réunion has reported over 51,000 cases as of May 2025Mayotte, another French territory, has recorded 560 cases, pushing it into an epidemic phaseMadagascar, Somalia, and Kenya are now reporting new clustersSouth Asia is experiencing epidemic-level transmissionFrance has confirmed 30 local cases across 12 regions, with the largest cluster in Salon-de-ProvenceItaly reported its first locally acquired case since 2017 in PiacenzaEven countries like Portugal have reported dengue and chikungunya cases in 2025, highlighting how climate change and international travel are making vector-borne illnesses harder to contain.Dr. Rojas Alvarez emphasized, “We are raising the alarm early so countries can prepare early—strengthening detection, prevention, and response systems is key.”Why Europe and the US Should Pay Attention?For decades, chikungunya was seen as a “tropical” disease, limited to warmer parts of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.The Aedes albopictus, or tiger mosquito, is expanding its range northward due to warming temperatures and human-driven climate change. These mosquitoes have already become established in parts of southern Europe and even the southeastern United States. And with imported cases from travelers on the rise, localized outbreaks are becoming increasingly plausible.The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recently launched updated guidance on mosquito-borne illnesses and emphasized the growing risk of local transmission. In addition to chikungunya, local dengue cases have been reported in Italy, France and Portugal in 2025.How Can People Protect Themselves?There’s no antiviral treatment for chikungunya, and supportive care—hydration, rest, and pain relief—is the mainstay of treatment. That makes prevention the most powerful tool. The WHO and ECDC recommend the following steps:Use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin on skin and clothingWear long sleeves and pants, especially during mosquito-active hoursInstall screens on windows and doors, and use insecticide-treated mosquito nets when sleepingEmpty standing water from containers like buckets, pots, and old tires, where mosquitoes lay eggsAvoid outdoor activity during early morning and late afternoon, especially in outbreak zonesHas Vaccine Become The New Line of Defense?In a significant step, UK has approved a chikungunya vaccine which contains a weakened version of the virus that trains the immune system to produce antibodies. The vaccine is prescription-only and is currently recommended for people traveling to high-risk areas. However, it is not without limitations. The Commission on Human Medicines has advised caution in people aged 65 and older, pending further evaluation.Until now, all we had were repellents and mosquito nets. With this vaccine, people who travel frequently or live in endemic areas now have another layer of protection. Still, experts advise travelers to assess their personal risk. If you're taking a one-off trip to France, your risk is low but if you're planning repeated travel to areas with outbreaks, vaccination may be worthwhile.Does Climate Change Affect Incidence Rate?Chikungunya and other mosquito-borne diseases are moving into new regions and our global health systems are scrambling to keep up. The convergence of climate change, urbanization, and international mobility is creating the perfect storm for diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika to flourish.As WHO warns, the time to act is now. That means not only educating the public and travelers but also investing in surveillance, vector control, and vaccine distribution especially in lower-income countries where health infrastructure is fragile. In 2005, the world was caught off guard and in 2025, we don’t have that excuse.

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World Sjogren’s Day 2025: Why This “Mild” Autoimmune Condition Can Be Life-Altering

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Millions At Risk As Chikungunya Virus Threatens Global Health, Warns WHO; Can A Mosquito Bite In Monsoon Trigger Severe Symptoms?

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World Sjogren’s Day 2025: Why This “Mild” Autoimmune Condition Can Be Life-Altering

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