geneva — The World Health Organization on Thursday urged countries to step up surveillance for bird flu after the first case was detected in a child in the United States. A small but growing number of H5N1 avian influenza infections have been detected in humans around the world in recent years, Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO … Read more
 "Can talcum powder cause cancer as WHO claims? – Firstpost")
Talc is frequently used in blush, eye shadow, powders, and other cosmetic items. However, the World Health Organization’s cancer agency on Friday classified the mineral, mined from the Earth, as “probably carcinogenic” for humans. While some who frequently use talcum powders are concerned about the most recent statement, an outside expert cautioned against mistaking it … Read more
 "India has developed its own mpox RT-PCR testing kits. Here’s why this matters – Firstpost")
India has achieved a significant milestone in the battle against the mpox virus by introducing its home-grown RT-PCR kit specifically designed for the detection of the viral disease. The two testing kits, developed indigenously in India, come at a crucial juncture as the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a second public health emergency due … Read more
 "Polio has made a comeback in war-torn Gaza. Here’s what we know so far – Firstpost")
Once thought to be nearly eradicated, polio has made a troubling return in Gaza, sending shockwaves through the war-torn region. The infection and subsequent partial paralysis of the 10-month-old Abdul-Rahman Abu Al-Jidyan has left health officials scrambling to contain its spread. Authorities are now rushing to launch a mass vaccination campaign for children across the … Read more
 "Why measles cases have risen by 20% across the world – Firstpost")
Cases of measles are increasing worldwide. According to a study, about 10 million people caught the world’s most infectious disease last year, a 20 per cent rise compared with 2022. A decline in vaccination coverage is the primary driver of a rise in disease cases. The study cautioned that a global target of eliminating measles … Read more
 "What we know about the disease – Firstpost")
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has been diagnosed with a bacterial disease known as leptospirosis. The 50-year-old AAP leader was admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali for a routine check-up following tropical fever, the subsequent blood tests confirmed the infection. According to a health bulletin released by the hospital on Saturday, the chief minister is … Read more
 "WHO approves first mpox diagnostic test kit – Firstpost")
The WHO approved diagnostic test for mpox enables the detection of the virus from swabs taken from human lesions read more The UN health agency said on Friday that it had approved the use of the first diagnostic test for mpox, a key tool in countries battling outbreaks. More than 800 people have died across … Read more
 "What is trachoma, the eye disease eliminated by India? – Firstpost")
After decades of fighting, India has finally eliminated trachoma as a public health problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it has become the third country in the Southeast Asia Region to achieve this milestone. The disease is one of the leading causes of blindness globally and has been a public health concern. Here’s … Read more
Geneva — The World Health Organization on Tuesday listed 17 pathogens that cause widespread disease and death, including HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, for which it said new vaccines were “urgently needed.” The U.N. health agency said that it with its list was providing the first global effort to systematically prioritize endemic pathogens based on criteria … Read more
LAHORE: Air pollution in Pakistan’s second biggest city Lahore soared on Saturday (Nov 2), with an official calling it a record high for the smog-choked mega city. For days, the city of 14 million people has been enveloped by smog, a mix of fog and pollutants caused by low-grade diesel fumes, smoke from seasonal agricultural burning … Read more
