Cold & poor air leading to a surge in respiratory illness: Docs
Increasing cases of respiratory illnesses, including asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and pneumonia, are attributed to poor air quality and severe cold conditions in many parts of the country. Patients continue to experience persistent cough even after recovering from the acute phase. Max Healthcare has observed a rise in patients with respiratory illnesses, viral illnesses, and flu-like symptoms, particularly due to the prolonged harsh conditions and poor air quality. Key Points
Economic TimesCold air, warm viruses: Why winter becomes a boiling pot for viral infections
The winter season, with its cosy sweaters and hot chai, also unfolds as a hotbed for respiratory illnesses only to invade the body’s defenses. It's a paradox of seasons - a time when sniffles, sneezes, and sore throats take centre stage. Key Points
India TodayWhat is white lung syndrome? Signs, symptoms and preventive measures of illness
White lung syndrome is emerging as a new health concern among children. From symptoms to preventive measures, all you want to know about the outbreak. | Health Key Points
Hindustan Timesrespiratory illnesses in kids on rise: Common causes and preventive measures
A surge in respiratory diseases has been observed in kids. Experts say factors like allergens, inactive lifestyle to spread of viruses could be behind it. | Health Key Points
Hindustan TimesChina urges its people to mask up amid surge in respiratory illness across the country
China's health ministry has confirmed that the recent surge in respiratory illnesses is caused by the flu and other known pathogens, not a novel virus. The outbreaks are caused by an overlap of common viruses such as influenza, rhinoviruses, RSV, adenovirus, and bacteria like mycoplasma pneumoniae. The ministry has called on local authorities to open more fever clinics and promote vaccinations among children and the elderly. Key Points
Economic Times
India monitoring respiratory illness cases in China, says situation not alarming
The central government reiterated on Sunday that it was closely monitoring the surge in respiratory illness in children in parts of China. In its latest update, the Union Health Ministry indicated that there was no need for any alarm. | Latest News Delhi Key Points
Hindustan TimesChina says there is no detection of 'unusual or novel pathogens' in surge of respiratory illnesses: WHO
China responded to the World Health Organization's call for information on rising child respiratory illnesses. Denying unusual pathogens, China attributes increased cases to known viruses, eased COVID measures, and normal seasonal patterns. WHO requested data on outbreaks, including Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Chinese surveillance since mid-October covers various respiratory infections. WHO emphasizes preventive measures and continues collaboration. China's health authorities linked the surge to lifted COVID restrictions and known pathogens, urging enhanced disease monitoring and healthcare readiness. Key Points
Economic TimesAir Pollution: How to avoid respiratory issues during and after Diwali
Short-term exposure to these pollutants can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and reduced lung function, says expert. Key Points
India TodayStudy: Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy increases likelihood of flu attack
Texas [US], April 22 (ANI): Women are more vulnerable to severe respiratory infections caused by a variety of viruses during pregnancy, including influenza A virus (IAV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Furthermore, influenza affects pregnant women disproportionately, resulting in a more than 10-fold increase in hospitalisation risk. A new […] Key Points
ThePrintExposure to air pollution during pregnancy increases chances for flu attack: Study
Texas [US], April 20 (ANI): During pregnancy, women are more prone to severe respiratory infections from multiple viruses, including influenza A virus (IAV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Additionally, pregnant women are disproportionately affected by influenza, resulting in a more than 10-fold increase in hospitalization risk. A new study […] Key Points
ThePrint
Childhood respiratory illness associated with higher risk of death in adulthood
Chronic respiratory diseases are a major public health problem, accounting for an estimated 3.9 million deaths, or 7 per cent of all deaths worldwide, in 2017. | Health Key Points
Hindustan Timesrespiratory illnesses like common cold, flu rise in winter: here's why
Low temperatures cause the air to dry up weakening the human body's immune system. Moreover, viruses tend to live longer in cold weather, especially during November and the end of February. Key Points
India TodayIllness-detecting mask with sensor developed by BITS-Pilani Hyderabad
A face mask can protect us from COVID and other respiratory diseases. Now, it could also be used as a non-invasive device to check the health of our body as has been successfully demonstrated by researchers at the BITS-Pilani Hyderabad campus’ Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), Microfluids and Nanoelectronics (MMNE) Lab. Key Points
The HinduAnother mysterious virus spreading in China. WHO seeks report. Here is all you should know
The outbreak originated in northern China, with a significant number of cases involving children. Hospitals in the affected areas are reportedly overwhelmed with patients displaying pneumonia-like symptoms, yet the cause remains unidentified. Chinese health authorities, in a press conference on November 13, reported an increase in respiratory diseases in the country. Key Points
Economic TimesCOVID-19 numbers ticking up, Centre seeks more vigilance
Government pitches for more surveillance; requests States, U.T.s to take stock of hospital preparedness; Health Secretary calls for focus on test, track, treat, vaccination and appropriate behaviour Key Points
The Hindu
China's 'White Lung Syndrome' resurgence sparks concerns; here's everything you need to know
China encounters a puzzling outbreak, prompting the reimplementation of face masks and distancing measures after a surge in white lung syndrome cases, primarily affecting children. Concerns mount as the WHO seeks clarity on the situation. Mycoplasma pneumonia resurfaces, posing viral-like transmission and severe respiratory complications. Vigilance against winter risks, symptom recognition, immunity-building, and antibiotic treatment strategies are vital. Vulnerable groups face heightened susceptibility, emphasizing the importance of early medical intervention for improved recovery chances. Key Points
Economic TimesStudy reveals how viral infections interact with human bodies
Much of our understanding of viral respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza is based on investigations of symptomatic patients. A new... Key Points
The Tribune IndiaTips to protect yourself from cold, flu and COVID-19 this winter season
As winter arrives, respiratory viruses, including a dominant COVID-19 variant, pose health concerns. Discover essential tips for staying healthy this season. | Health Key Points
Hindustan TimesStudy reveals how viral infections interact with human bodies
Much of our understanding of viral respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza is based on investigations of symptomatic patients. A new longitudinal... Key Points
The Tribune IndiaWhat is ‘white lung’ pneumonia? What caused its outbreak in China, here is what we know
When hundreds of children in China were admitted into hospitals with respiratory illnesses including pneumonia, it was apprehended that a new pathogen could be behind this. But this was not the case. Know what caused the outbreak of this disease. Key Points
Economic Times
Air pollution: 'Limit outdoor activities,' say doctors amid high AQI
The main pollutants released during Diwali are particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and various heavy metals. Key Points
India TodayCovid-19 and Pneumonia? Know the symptoms and effective tips to prevent it
Understand the link between Covid-19 and pneumonia, their symptoms and prevention tips. It will be imperative for you to seek timely intervention in both cases. | Health Key Points
Hindustan TimesCoughs lasting over 8 weeks post respiratory infection must not be ignored: Study
Evidence shows little benefit with inhalers or oral medications to treat a cough.. Coughing after a respiratory infection is common and, in most cases,... Key Points
The Tribune IndiaExperts call for limiting number of vehicles per family to curb air pollution, related ailments
Experts at the 25th National Conference on Pulmonary Diseases in New Delhi have highlighted the link between air pollution and respiratory ailments in India. They have called on the government to implement measures such as limiting the number of cars per family and restricting the number of vehicles on the roads. The immediate effects of air pollution include irritation in the eyes and throat, as well as an increase in the severity of asthma attacks. Long-term effects include respiratory diseases and lung cancer. Key Points
Economic TimesWhat doctors are saying as China hit by pneumonia outbreak
The Union Health Ministry has been keeping a close watch on the developments in China. The ministry has indicated that there is a low risk to India from both the avian influenza case, reported from China and the clusters of respiratory illness. Key Points
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AstraZeneca prioritizes US for RSV drug amid surge in cases
AstraZeneca (AZN.L) on Friday said it was prioritizing the U.S. market for additional doses of its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) drug Beyfortus, which was approved in July to prevent the disease in infants and toddlers, as a surge of cases is outpacing supply. Key Points
ReutersApple Watch saves a user's life after detecting a sudden drop in blood oxygen level: Full story
Apple Watch has again saved a user's life after detecting a high respiratory rate and a sudden drop in blood oxygen level. The man says that this smartwatch is an amazing device and that his friends also bought it after listening to his experience. Key Points
India TodayH3N2 is a 'cocktail of respiratory viruses'; know which ones
A combination of respiratory viruses--ranging from Covid-19 virus, swine flu (H1N1)--has led to increase in infection from H3N2. Also, the seasonal Victoria and Yamagata lineages of influenza B viruses are in circulation, says data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Key Points
The Tribune India'Buddhadeb Bhattacharya is stable but…': Kolkata hospital shares update on ex-CM of West Bengal
Former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Buddhadeb Bhattacharya, has been hospitalized due to respiratory issues. His condition remains critical but stable, and he is receiving treatment including invasive ventilation and antibiotics. Key Points
mintCovid-19 cases peak in Singapore as clinics brace for surge: Report
Clinics in Singapore are preparing for another surge of Covid-19 cases as the virus has peaked in the country, according to doctors. Healthway Medical and OneCare Medical have seen an increase in patients with respiratory infections, but a slight drop from the peak around Christmas. Key Points
mint
WHO classifies JN.1 as COVID-19 'variant of interest' but says it poses low risk
The World Health Organization (WHO) designated the JN.1 coronavirus strain as a variant of interest but with a low global public health risk. It's now classified separately from the BA.2.86 lineage due to its rapid spread. Recently, a case of JN.1 coronavirus strain was detected in India. Key Points
Economic TimesCDC expedites release of 77,000 additional doses of Sanofi-AstraZeneca's RSV drug
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday it has expedited the release of more than 77,000 additional doses of Sanofi (SASY.PA) and AstraZeneca's (AZN.L) respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) drug Beyfortus. Key Points
Reuters