
Nipah patient in Kerala declared virus-free, recovering says Health Minister
According to the hospital's intensive care team the MRI scans of the patient are showing healing in areas previously damaged by the virus. Subtle responses to pain and movements in the eyes and jaw have also been noted.Doctors were hopeful the patient could be discharged in the coming weeks with full physical and mental recovery, George said.The minister said that the incubation period for the virus has now passed without any new cases being reported. However, support services and helplines will continue for a few more days as a precaution.The patient continues to be under close observation by a full critical care team at the EMS Cooperative hospital.Minister George emphasised that the patient received advanced treatment, including Remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies provided by the Indian Council of Medical Research. "When Nipah first struck Kerala, the fatality rate exceeded 90 per cent. However, since 2021 with use of antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibody treatment, the rate has dropped, falling to 33 per cent in 2023," she said.Written by Debosmita Maity Must Watch

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Indian Express
10 hours ago
- Indian Express
Knowledge Nugget: AdFalciVax and the fight against malaria — What you must-know for UPSC Exam
Take a look at the essential events, concepts, terms, quotes, or phenomena every day and brush up your knowledge. Here's your UPSC Current Affairs Knowledge Nugget for today on AdFalciVax and malaria. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has invited the country's vaccine manufacturers to partner with it to launch and sell a malaria vaccine, AdFalciVax, that its Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneshwar, has developed. In this context, let's know about this new vaccine and malaria. 1. AdFalciVax is a chimeric recombinant vaccine — a type of vaccine that uses different parts of the genes of a pathogen (in this case, Plasmodium) to create target proteins that trigger an immune response after being injected. 2. AdFalciVax uses two types of target proteins to prevent the spread of infection in two different ways. ↪ It uses the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) to prevent infection in the person who has been immunised. The CSP is produced during the sporozoite stage (when a parasite can infect a new host) and the liver stage (when a parasite enters liver cells, multiplies, and then infects red blood cells) of the parasite. 'Any immune response generated against these stages protects the immunised person from getting the infection.' Subhash Singh, project manager for development of the vaccine at the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar told The Indian Express. ↪ The vaccine also uses the Pro6C protein, a fusion of parts of two different proteins — Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 — produced by Plasmodium falciparum. This protein prevents the spread of infection in the community. 3. Researchers have found that AdFalciVax provided more than 90% protection against infection in mice. The candidate vaccine has yet to undergo rigorous human trials, and the preliminary results have been obtained only through testing on animals. 4. The ICMR wants to partner with a company that can further develop its candidate vaccine, carry out human clinical trials, and scale up for commercial production. Although the ICMR will share the technology of developing AdFalciVax with the chosen company, it will continue to hold the intellectual property rights. Any intellectual property rights generated during the collaboration will be held jointly by the ICMR and the company. 5. Notably, AdFalciVax mainly targets two parts of Plasmodium falciparum, a pathogen that is the most common source of malaria in humans. In India, however, the disease is caused by Plasmodium vivax against which AdFalciVax is ineffective. To combat malaria, scientists have been working to develop a vaccine for decades but with limited success. Recently, two vaccines—RTS,S and R21—were approved for use, but their efficacy, at 75%, is quite low. That's why the announcement about ICMR's candidate vaccine has given new hope in the fight against the disease. World Malaria Day is observed every year on 25th April by the World Health Organisation to raise awareness and drive action against malaria. The theme for World Malaria Day 2025 is 'Malaria Ends With Us: Reinvest, Reimagine, Reignite.' 1. Having claimed millions of lives, malaria has been one of the deadliest diseases in human history. Currently, the disease kills about four lakh people annually, according to World Health Organization (WHO) figures. 2. Malaria is a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes, typically causing symptoms such as fever, chills, night sweats, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. In some cases, it can lead to severe complications such as seizures, fluid in the lungs, organ damage, and death. 3. It is most endemic in Africa — Nigeria, Congo, Tanzania, Mozambique, Niger, and Burkina Faso together account for more than half the yearly deaths. 1. India has demonstrated significant progress in reducing malaria cases and associated mortality in the country's high-endemic states, according to the findings of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) 'World Malaria Report 2024′. 2. 'India exited the HBHI [high-burden to high-impact] group officially in 2024 due to significant progress in reducing the malaria incidence and mortality observed in its high-endemic states,' the report observed. 3.'Nationwide, the number of estimated malaria cases in India decreased from 6.4 million in 2017 (the year before the HBHI's introduction) to 2 million cases in 2023 (69 per cent decrease). Similarly, the estimated malaria deaths decreased from 11,100 to 3,500 (68 per cent decrease) during the same period,' it said. 4. The HBHI refers to a targeted WHO initiative aimed at the most acutely malaria-impacted regions of the world, including several countries in Africa. Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine? (UPSC CSE 2010) (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium (b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection (c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria (d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host (Sources: India registers 'significant progress' in reducing malaria cases: WHO, WHO report says India reduces malaria caseload, deaths by 69% each) Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at


Hindustan Times
10 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
400 frontline forest staff identified for zoonotic disease screening
PUNE: In a bid to enhance early detection and raise awareness about zoonotic diseases, nearly 400 forest and zoo staff members in Maharashtra have been shortlisted for medical screening. Registration for the screening process will begin soon, followed by a series of medical tests. The initiative aims to safeguard both wildlife and human populations by identifying potential risks of disease transmission among individuals most frequently in contact with animals. In a bid to enhance early detection and raise awareness about zoonotic diseases, nearly 400 forest and zoo staff members in Maharashtra have been shortlisted. ((PIC FOR REPRESENTATION)) Launched in January of this year, the program titled 'Building a Surveillance Model for Detecting Zoonotic Spillover in Increased Bird-Human Interaction Settings' adopts the one Health approach, a concept recognising the interconnection between people, animals, plants, and their shared environment. This pioneering project is a joint effort by the Maharashtra Forest Department, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, and Symbiosis International University. The program focuses on developing a real-time surveillance model to monitor zoonotic spillovers among frontline forest staff, zoo workers, bird sanctuary staff, and residents living near wetlands. Zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans—are emerging as a significant global health threat. Notable examples include the Nipah virus, Ebola, Zika, SARS-CoV-2, Avian Influenza Virus (AIV), and Monkeypox. Despite the growing threat of zoonotic infections in India, scientists have noted a lack of comprehensive data on such diseases within the country. Since its launch, several awareness and sensitisation programs have already been conducted in districts such as Satara, Ahilyanagar, Solapur, and Junnar. Dr Satish Pande, a conservationist and researcher leading the sensitisation program, shared that the response to the initiative has been overwhelmingly positive. Following the sensitisation sessions, many frontline workers expressed eagerness to enrol. To date, 400 staff members have been identified for enrollment, with the registration process still ongoing. Once registration is complete, participants will undergo medical check-ups, including blood tests, to assess if they have been exposed to any viral infections via the presence of antibodies. Following the initial assessments, the health of each participant will be monitored over the next three years. In Maharashtra, four wild animals—including three tigers and one leopard—have died this year due to Avian influenza. Across India, at least three human deaths linked to zoonotic diseases have been reported. These cases highlight the increasing concern over zoonotic infections, particularly as viruses continue to breach species barriers. Frontline workers, who have frequent contact with both animals and local communities, are emerging as a potential link in the transmission chain. Dr Pande emphasised that this program will provide close health monitoring for these key personnel, making a significant contribution to both wildlife conservation and public health safety.
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First Post
a day ago
- First Post
Dr explains: How air pollution, stress and late pregnancies are fuelling India's fertility crisis
Infertility affects 10–15% of Indian couples. Firstpost brings out expert views on India's growing infertility crisis, examining how lifestyle, pollution, and delayed parenthood are affecting reproductive health, IVF success rates and access to fertility care in urban and tier-2 and tier-3 cities. read more Infertility is emerging as a pressing public health concern in India, affecting an estimated 10–15% of couples according to studies published in The Lancet and other medical journals. The issue has been further spotlighted by government data and clinical observations pointing to a surge in conditions like PCOS, endometriosis and declining sperm quality, particularly in urban centres. Environmental stressors such as air pollution and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, combined with sedentary lifestyles and delayed family planning, are compounding the crisis. The Indian Council of Medical Research and the Ministry of Health have taken regulatory steps with the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act to ensure standardised fertility care but challenges around accessibility, affordability and awareness persist—especially in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Firstpost talked to Dr. Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD, Obstetrics & Gynaecology & IVF, Elantis Healthcare (New Delhi) to understand the underlying medical and environmental factors behind India's infertility burden, how air pollution and lifestyle are affecting IVF outcomes, and the current state of ART practices across the country. What are the main medical and environmental factors behind the rising burden of infertility in India? Dr Mannan: Infertility now affects nearly 10–15% of couples in India, and the trend is steadily increasing. Medically, rising cases of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and obesity in women are significant contributors. In men, conditions like varicocele, hormonal imbalances, and poor sperm parameters are commonly seen. Environmentally, increasing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), air pollution, and unhealthy lifestyle habits—such as poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and chronic stress—are worsening reproductive health. Additionally, delayed marriages and late pregnancy planning have become major socio-cultural factors contributing to declining fertility. How are declining sperm quality and ovarian reserve due to air pollution and sedentary lifestyles impacting IVF outcomes, especially in urban India? Dr Mannan: In urban settings, declining sperm counts and ovarian reserves have become major challenges for successful conception—both naturally and via assisted reproduction. Studies show increasing DNA fragmentation in sperm and diminished anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in women exposed to high-pollution environments. These directly reduce embryo quality and negatively impact IVF success rates. Sedentary habits, obesity, and poor sleep hygiene further impair hormonal health. As a result, we often require multiple IVF cycles and personalised stimulation protocols to achieve a viable pregnancy, especially in metropolitan cities. How accessible and affordable is IVF treatment across India, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities? Dr Mannan: While IVF is gaining popularity and acceptance, affordability and access remain significant hurdles outside metro cities. In tier-2 and tier-3 areas, there is limited availability of advanced infrastructure, skilled embryologists, and fertility specialists. Many couples are forced to travel to metro cities, which increases emotional and financial burdens. Moreover, infertility is still considered taboo in several regions, leading to delayed medical intervention. Although some states are considering subsidised treatment or insurance coverage for infertility, there is still a long way to go in terms of accessibility and affordability at the national level. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What realistic expectations should couples, especially those over 35, have when starting IVF? Dr Mannan: IVF success rates typically range from 30% to 50%, depending on factors like the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the clinic's expertise. For women above 35, success rates start to decline due to reduced ovarian reserve and egg quality. It is crucial for couples to understand that IVF is not a guarantee of pregnancy in the first cycle. It may require two or more attempts, and in some cases, advanced techniques like donor eggs or preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) may be recommended. Emotional and psychological support also plays a big role during this journey. Since the implementation of ICMR guidelines and ART legislation, how have clinical practices, patient safety, and ethical standards changed? Dr Mannan: The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act and ICMR guidelines have brought much-needed standardisation to IVF practices across India. Clinics now require mandatory registration, ensuring quality control and accountability. There are clear protocols for consent, gamete donation, surrogacy, and embryo storage. This has significantly improved patient safety, reduced unethical practices, and built greater transparency in treatment. While compliance can sometimes increase operational costs, it ultimately enhances trust between patients and healthcare providers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Are clinics in India adopting single embryo transfer more frequently to minimise complications from multiple pregnancies? Dr Mannan: Yes, there is a growing shift towards single embryo transfer (SET), especially in younger women with good-quality embryos. While earlier practices often involved transferring two or more embryos to boost chances, we now understand that multiple pregnancies increase maternal risks such as hypertension, preterm birth, and NICU admissions. With improved embryo culture systems, blastocyst transfers, and technologies like vitrification (rapid freezing), SET has become a safe and effective option. However, adoption still varies across clinics and regions based on patient preference, cost considerations, and expectations. What does current evidence suggest about egg freezing and fertility preservation in working women and cancer patients? Dr Mannan: Egg freezing has emerged as a valuable tool for fertility preservation. For working women who wish to delay childbearing, freezing eggs before the age of 35 offers the best chance of future success. In cancer patients, fertility preservation before undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy is becoming standard practice. Evidence shows that frozen eggs, when used within 5–10 years, can lead to pregnancy rates comparable to fresh eggs—provided they were retrieved at an optimal age and under proper protocols. The key is early counselling and timely decision-making. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How widely are advanced technologies like AI and time-lapse imaging being adopted in Indian IVF clinics, and do they improve outcomes? Dr Mannan: Advanced technologies such as AI-based embryo selection and time-lapse imaging (like EmbryoScope) are being increasingly integrated into top-tier IVF centres in India. These tools offer real-time monitoring of embryo development and help identify embryos with the best implantation potential. AI algorithms analyse thousands of data points to assist embryologists in decision-making. While the evidence is promising—especially in reducing subjectivity and improving selection accuracy—more long-term data is needed to confirm significant improvements in live birth rates. Cost is another limiting factor, making these technologies less accessible in smaller cities.