Latest news with #Chikungunya
Time of India
17 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Unmaintained open sites in twin cities pose danger to public health
Hubballi: Open sites in twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad have emerged as a major concern for public health and safety. These neglected plots have turned into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and shelters for stray animals. The unchecked growth of wild vegetation in these areas has led to the formation of mini-jungles within residential zones, posing difficulties for safe movement. As per Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) records, there are 1,30,000 open sites in the city, many of which are contributing to hygiene and security issues in localities. The uncontrolled growth of vegetation in these sites has created mini-jungles within residential areas, making it difficult for residents to move safely around their neighbourhoods. HDMC has begun taking measures to address this issue following the directive from district minister Santosh Lad. The civic body will now issue formal notices to site owners, requiring them to clear and maintain their properties. The owners will have a week to comply with these notices. The HDMC has outlined a three-step enforcement plan. Firstly, owners who fail to respond to initial notices will face substantial monetary penalties. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Forget Furosemide, Use This Household Item To Help Drain Edema Fluid WellnessGuide Learn more Undo Secondly, if the sites remain uncleaned despite the fines, the authorities will undertake the cleaning work and charge the expenses to the owners. Finally, in cases of continued non-compliance, the municipal corporation has been authorised to acquire these plots. Local residents have welcomed this initiative, as these neglected sites have been causing various problems, including increased incidents of dengue and Chikungunya. The presence of stray animals has also led to safety concerns, particularly for children and elderly residents in these areas. The municipal authorities have started mapping these sites and creating a database of property owners. They will also conduct regular inspections to ensure sustained compliance with cleanliness standards. This systematic approach aims to transform these problematic spaces into well-maintained areas that contribute positively to the urban landscape of the twin cities. Ashok Kumar, a resident of Gokul Road, said the open plots have become overgrown with vegetation, transforming residential areas into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and providing refuge for stray dogs, cattle, and pigs. The authorities should initiate stern action against the owners of the land. Rudresh Ghali, commissioner, HDMC, mentioned that district minister Santosh Lad recently gave instructions for strict action against open sites. He stated that they will begin proceedings against open sites and have instructed all zonal officials to gather information about open site owners and send them notices. He also indicated that if owners do not comply, they will conduct an extensive open sites cleaning operation, with the expenses being recovered from site owners during property tax collection.
Politico
3 days ago
- Health
- Politico
Kennedy's vaccine panel to review childhood immunization schedule
ATLANTA — At the first meeting of the CDC's panel of outside vaccine advisers since Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. overhauled it with new members, the group said it will review childhood vaccines and shots not studied in more than seven years. The decision by the new group, tasked with reviewing the childhood immunization schedule, could open the door to changes on how and when children are immunized. The Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices' work groups study the latest vaccination data and develop recommendations for presentation to the committee. The work groups are mainly made up of CDC scientists and ACIP members, and can also include ACIP ex-officio members, ACIP liaison representatives, and consultants. — Details: ACIP Chair Martin Kulldorff said the committee would maintain existing work groups tasked with examining vaccines including shots for Chikungunya, influenza and mpox. New work groups will also be established, he said, including one to examine the cumulative childhood vaccine schedule as well as the adolescent schedule. 'In addition to studying and evaluating individual vaccines, it is important to evaluate the cumulative effect of the recommended vaccine schedule,' Kulldorff said Wednesday, the first day of a two-day meeting at CDC headquarters in Atlanta. 'This includes interaction effects between different vaccines, the total number of vaccines, cumulative amounts of vaccine ingredients, and the relative timing of different vaccines.' A CDC work group will also look at vaccines that have not been studied in more than seven years, he said. 'This new vaccine group may look at the universally recommended hepatitis B vaccine at the day of birth,' Kulldorff said. 'This working group may also look at new research concerning the optimal timing of the MMR vaccine to resolve religious objections that some parents have concerning the MMR vaccine being used here in the United States, it could also look at other MMR vaccines, such as the one used in Japan,' he added. — Key context: The work groups align with Kennedy's priorities on vaccines. He has long questioned the safety of several vaccines that children receive. But public health experts have criticized Kennedy for the push, arguing the U.S. has a strong vaccine safety monitoring system and that vaccines have saved many lives.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
CM wants comprehensive action plan for core urban region within ORR
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has instructed the officials of the Municipal Administration department to prepare a comprehensive policy for the development of core urban region located inside the Outer Ring Road. Simultaneously, a policy with action plan for all round development of semi-urban and rural areas should be prepared, he said. The Chief Minister reviewed the status of ongoing and pending works in the Municipal Administration department with senior officials on Wednesday. Officials briefed him about the developmental works that were in different stages. Mr. Revanth Reddy instructed the officials to prepare a comprehensive plan to meet the future needs of the core urban region. The action plan should accord priority to drinking water supply, drainage, roads, metro connectivity and elevated corridors. He wanted the officials to ensure that the infrastructure development works that were being taken up in the core urban region should take into consideration the requirements of the growing urban population in the next 25 years. A transparent policy should be prepared for semi-urban and rural areas along with an action plan on the way forward. The Chief Minister enquired about the progress of the ongoing drinking water supply and sewage treatment plant works under the GHMC limits. Officials were instructed to complete the pending works at the earliest. He advised officials not to neglect sanitation in the city and to take precautions against the spread of seasonal diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya as the monsoon had set in. Identification of water stagnating points on roads and preventive measures was also discussed in the meeting. Strict measures to prevent drainage overflow during the monsoon and appropriate steps to prevent the contamination of drinking water and mosquito menace was also reviewed.
Scotsman
20-06-2025
- Health
- Scotsman
Expert urge Edinburgh to take precautions ahead of scorching temperatures
THEYE With scorching temperatures predicted in Edinburgh this weekend (20th - 22nd June), Scots are being urged to take precaution as mosquito-born diseases are rapidly spreading across the country. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Temperatures are expected to rise up to 27 degrees, and experts are encouraging Scots to ensure they're wearing more than SPF, but mosquito-repellent too. This follows news on the recent West Nile virus outbreak found in the UK for the first time. Mainly spread between birds, the West Nile virus can now infect people when bitten by an infected mosquito. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, aches and nausea - and in rare cases, can cause encephalitis or meningitis. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Mosquitoes thrive in warm, damp conditions and their activity increases as temperatures rise - meaning the risk of a bite from a disease carrying mosquito is higher. Founder of natural insect repellent brand THEYE®, explains: "Many people assume that mosquito-borne diseases are only common abroad, but climate change has resulted in those viruses now spreading to the UK as populations migrate - which is what we're seeing with the West Nile Virus. We're expecting higher risks of not only West Nile, but worrying reports of Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, on home shores, and abroad in holiday hotspots around Europe. 'Protection is more important than ever, but it does not, and should not, mean more chemicals." Nick warns Brits against using popular chemical repellents with DEET, especially around children and pregnant women, praising DEET‑free, natural alternatives that can be reapplied more frequently without harmful side effects. The secret ingredient to the natural alternative is known as PMD - a natural compound derived from Java Citronella oil, and has been clinically proven to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects - without the toxicity risks of chemical alternatives like DEET. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad His advice: 'We'd strongly recommend getting tested and approved natural, DEET-free insect repellents and wearing these across the day, and particularly into dusk. If you're travelling into particularly high-risk areas, covering up with long sleeves or trousers can be a great idea, and sleeping under a mosquito net if sleeping outdoors or somewhere particularly rural would be key. Keep an eye out for standing water, including perhaps paddling pools and marshy puddles, as they love standing water. Finally, if in high risk zones, make sure that your repellent option is signed off for use in high risk areas like THEYE®, but do make sure that you're consulting your doctor before travel.' To find out more information about THEYE or to shop the products, please visit:
Time of India
19-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
10 common monsoon diseases that might cause serious health problems; know symptoms and how to protect yourself
The rainy season offers a refreshing break from the scorching summer, but it also brings a rise in illnesses due to damp conditions, stagnant water, and poor hygiene. These factors create the ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and mosquitoes. From waterborne infections to mosquito-borne diseases, health risks multiply during this time. Increased humidity can also weaken the immune system, making people more vulnerable. Being aware of the most common seasonal illnesses can help with early detection and prevention. Below are ten common diseases to watch out for during the rainy season to ensure you and your family stay safe and healthy. Diseases that surge during the rainy season: Symptoms and ways to stay safe Disease Cause Symptoms How to protect yourself Dengue Fever Aedes mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water High fever, severe body pain, rashes, weakness Remove standing water, use mosquito repellent, wear full-sleeved clothes, sleep under bed nets Malaria Anopheles mosquitoes carrying Plasmodium parasites Chills, sweating, fever, vomiting Use insecticide-treated nets, apply mosquito spray, stay indoors at dusk, ensure proper drainage Leptospirosis Contact with floodwater contaminated with infected animal urine Fever, muscle pain, red eyes Avoid wading in floodwaters, wear boots, maintain hygiene, keep surroundings rodent-free Chikungunya Mosquito-borne viral infection Fever, severe joint pain Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, use repellents and protective clothing, clean water containers Typhoid Fever Contaminated food and water Prolonged fever, weakness, abdominal pain, constipation Drink boiled/filtered water, avoid street food, wash hands, get vaccinated Cholera Ingestion of food/water with Vibrio cholerae bacteria Severe diarrhea, dehydration Drink clean/boiled water, wash hands often, maintain food hygiene, avoid raw food Hepatitis A Viral infection from contaminated food or water Jaundice, nausea, fatigue, abdominal pain Drink clean water, wash produce, eat hygienically cooked food, get vaccinated Common Cold & Flu Viral infection triggered by monsoon humidity Sore throat, sneezing, cough, fever Maintain distance from sick people, wash hands, strengthen immunity, keep surroundings dry Fungal Infections Damp conditions promoting fungal growth Itchy rashes, athlete's foot, ringworm Keep skin dry, change wet clothes, use antifungal powder, avoid sharing towels/clothes Gastroenteritis Bacterial/viral infection via contaminated food/water Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps Eat freshly prepared food, drink safe water, maintain hygiene, avoid roadside food Common rainy season diseases , their symptoms and prevention Dengue Fever Cause: Spread by Aedes mosquitoes that breed in stagnant water Symptoms: High fever, severe body pain, rashes, weakness Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted by a mosquito that thrives on standing water available during the monsoon. Sudden onset of high fever with intense body and joint pain are typically the first signs. Soon after, skin rashes and intense weakness develop. Immediate medical care and adequate hydration are needed to prevent developing complications of dengue hemorrhagic fever. How to protect yourself: Remove standing water around the house (flowerpot, coolers, buckets). Employ mosquito repellants and use full-sleeved clothing. Sleep in bed nets against mosquitoes. Keep windows and doors screened or closed at dawn and dusk. Malaria Cause: Transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes due to Plasmodium parasites Symptoms: Chills, sweating, fever, vomiting Malaria is another mosquito-borne disease that culminates in rainy seasons. The parasites are inoculated into the blood by bites from mosquitoes, and they create cyclical fever patterns accompanied by chills and vomiting. Precautionary measures like sleeping under a mosquito net, applying repellents, and keeping the place clean and free from standing water can reduce risk to a large degree. How to protect yourself: Use insecticide-treated bed nets. Spray mosquito repellents indoors and outdoors. Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours. Maintain proper drainage to avoid mosquito breeding. Leptospirosis Cause: Bacterial infection from water with animal urine Symptoms: Fever, muscle pain, red eyes Leptospirosis occurs when you come into contact with urine-tainted water from infected animals, especially in floods. It produces flu-like symptoms like fever, body pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Avoid wading through floodwaters, practice good hygiene, and consult a doctor if symptoms appear. How to protect yourself: Do not walk through standing or contaminated water. Use protective footwear in heavy rain or cleaning. Practice hygiene and wash feet clean after exposure. Keep rodents out of your home and environment. Chikungunya Cause: Viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes Symptoms: Fever, severe pain in the joints Chikungunya is dengue-like but distinguished by prolonged arthritis-like joint pain. It is transmitted by the same mosquitoes that transmit dengue and most often causes acute fever with blinding joint inflammation. Rest, fluids, and pain control assuage symptoms in the absence of antiviral medication. How to protect yourself: Prevent bites from mosquitoes through repellents and screens. Eliminate breeding sites such as uncovered water tanks. Wear arms and legs covers when stepping outside. Clean water storage vessels regularly. Typhoid Fever Cause: Spread by contaminated food and water Symptoms: Prolonged fever, weakness, pain in the abdomen, constipation Typhoid is a life-threatening bacterial infection that is common during monsoons due to poor sanitation. It causes prolonged high fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal issues like constipation. Prevent typhoid by practicing food hygiene, drinking purified water, and taking the vaccine in risk-affected areas. How to protect yourself: Drink only purified or boiled water. Avoid raw salads, street food, and unclean restaurants. Wash hands with soap thoroughly before eating. Vaccinate in exposed areas. Cholera Cause: Eating contaminated food or water containing Vibrio cholerae bacteria Symptoms: Severe diarrhea, dehydration Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness that can result in sudden dehydration and death if not treated. It usually results from water or food contaminated with the illness in dirty environments. Oral rehydration therapy promptly is crucial for recovery, alongside water safety and sanitation measures. How to protect yourself: Drink only filtered, clean, or boiled water at all times. Keep yourself clean and dispose of waste safely. Wash hands often, particularly after using the toilet. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked food. Hepatitis A Cause: Viral infection via contaminated water or food Symptoms: Jaundice, fatigue, nausea, pain in the abdomen Hepatitis A is an infection of the liver caused primarily by drinking contaminated water or food. The symptoms include jaundice, weakness, and gastric disturbance. Vaccination and proper sanitation practices are the best ways to prevent infection. How to protect yourself: Avoid consuming food from dirty food stalls or hawkers. Eat neatly cooked food and clean water. Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly. Immunization is strongly advised in endemic areas. Common Cold and Flu Cause: Viral infection caused by the temperature and humidity Symptoms: Sore throat, sneezing, cough, fever Monsoon weather promotes the spread of respiratory viruses, and a greater number of people get colds and flu. The symptoms are typically mild but cause inconvenience. Rest, excessive fluid intake, and proper hygiene measures, including frequent hand washing, allow for rapid recovery. How to protect yourself: Do not be in close contact with affected persons. Strengthen your immunity through a balanced diet and fluids. Cover mouth with tissues or the elbow while coughing/sneezing. Keep your environment clean and dry. Fungal Infections Cause: Fungi that thrive in damp environments Symptoms: Itchy scaly lesions on skin; athlete's foot; ringworm The rainy season's humid weather is an ideal environment for fungal skin and nail infections. Fungal infections like athlete's foot and ringworm are common in this category. Keeping the skin dry, wearing loose clothing, and using antifungal creams or powder prevent and treat these infections. How to protect yourself: Dry the skin and dress in breathable clothes. Immediately change out of wet clothing. Apply antifungal powders or creams if susceptible to infection. Avoid sharing towels, socks, or shoes. Gastroenteritis Cause: Bacterial or viral infection through contaminated food or water Symptoms: Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps Gastroenteritis causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines and results in vomiting and diarrhea. It is usually picked up through unhygienic food preparation or drinking contaminated water. Proper food hygiene and hydration are needed to avoid the most serious complications. How to protect yourself: All food must be freshly prepared and cooked. Don't consume exposed food from street vendors. Keep food in clean, cover containers. Keep drinking water clean and don't consume ice from unknown sources. Also Read | Bryan Johnson's routine reveals the future of healthy aging and live happily - know how he looks younger than his age One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
