Latest news with #Hepatitis
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Blood donation guide: Eligibility, myths, medications, and safety tips
If you're between 18 and 60 years old, weigh at least 45 kg, and have a haemoglobin level above 12.5 grams per decilitre (g/dL), you are eligible to donate blood in India. Men can donate blood every three months, while women should wait four months between donations. However, not everyone qualifies. Dr Amita Mahajan, Senior Consultant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, explained that people with chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and certain infections are typically not eligible. Those on specific medications—such as antibiotics, blood thinners, or chemotherapy drugs—may also need to defer donation. Smokers and those with tattoos can still donate. Just ensure the tattoo was done at a certified centre (or wait one year if it wasn't). Also, avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours before donating. Does blood donation make you weak? This is one of the most common myths. 'There's no weakness. It's only in the mind,' said Dr Krishna Kumar Rai, Head of Emergency Medicine at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad. Dr Amita Mahajan added, 'Your body replenishes the donated blood within days. There's no long-term impact on your strength or immunity.' The key is to stay hydrated, have a light meal beforehand, and avoid strenuous activity for a few hours afterward. Is blood donation safe? Yes, blood donation is completely safe when done at certified blood banks and hospitals. According to Dr Rahul Bhargava, Principal Director at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, donors might feel mild fatigue or light-headedness briefly, but serious complications are extremely rare. Modern practices ensure safety through strict hygiene and single-use sterile needles. For recipients, risks of transfusion-related infections like HIV or Hepatitis have significantly reduced due to advanced screening protocols. Can you donate blood if you are on medication? It depends. Dr Sangeeta Agarwal, Director of Transfusion Medicine at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, said that people taking vitamins or managing controlled blood pressure or diabetes (without insulin) can usually donate. However, if you're on antibiotics, steroids, antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, or blood thinners, it's best to consult a doctor. Always disclose all medications to the blood bank team during pre-screening—they'll guide you accordingly. Can women safely donate blood? Yes, women can and should donate blood. There are no gender-based restrictions. However, they should avoid donating during menstruation and wait four months between donations. 'Women are often wrongly discouraged from donating blood,' said Dr Rai. 'The truth is, women's bodies are just as capable of handling blood donation as men's.' Can you donate blood after recovering from Covid-19? Yes. If you've recovered from Covid-19 and are feeling well, you are eligible to donate blood. Dr Rai stressed that there is no stigma or risk of transmitting Covid-19 through blood donation. 'If you're fully recovered, you're welcome to donate and save lives,' he said. How should you prepare before donating blood? Here's a simple checklist: Stay well-hydrated Eat light, healthy food about an hour before Avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours prior Skip heavy workouts before and after donation Avoid smoking two hours before and after donating Carry a valid ID and disclose any medications to the medical staff What are the benefits of donating blood? Besides saving lives, blood donation offers emotional and potential health rewards. 'It's like a noble high,' said Dr Rai, who donates every year on his birthday. Some studies suggest that regular donors may enjoy improved heart health and reduced oxidative stress. Above all, it fosters a sense of purpose. 'Every healthy person eligible should donate,' said Dr Sangeeta Agarwal. 'You never know whose life you could save—your friend, a stranger, or a colleague. Blood banks only work when we all pitch in.'
Libya Review
3 days ago
- Health
- Libya Review
Libya Deports 700 Sudanese Migrants
Libya's Anti-Illegal Immigration Department in Benghazi has announced the deportation of approximately 700 Sudanese migrants, as part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on irregular migration. According to officials, the individuals were apprehended in southeastern and central regions of the country during coordinated security operations. Among those deported were several individuals diagnosed with infectious diseases, including Hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, as well as others facing legal judgments, smuggling-related charges, or security-related expulsion orders. In a related move, 18 undocumented migrants of various nationalities were transferred to a shelter center in Al Jabal Al Akhdar pending completion of their deportation procedures, in accordance with Libya's immigration regulations. Separately, authorities in Tobruk deported 183 Egyptian nationals who were found residing in the country without valid identification or residency documentation. These deportations are part of broader efforts by Libyan authorities to curb the flow of illegal migration, as the country continues to serve as a key transit hub for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean toward European shores. Human rights groups have frequently raised concerns about migrant detention conditions and the risk of forced returns in Libya, which has become a major focal point in international migration policy. Tags: benghazilibyamigrantsSudantobruk
Irish Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Irish Daily Mirror
Man jailed for spraying contents of a syringe at a garda
A 37 year-old man who sprayed a garda in the face with liquid from a syringe after he was called to his home during an episode of self harm has been jailed for 18 months. Cork Circuit Criminal Court heard that gardai attended at the home of Trevor Murphy at Millerd Street in Cork city on February 8, 2024 after they received a phone call that a man was threatening to harm himself. Judge Helen Boyle was told that when gardai attended onsite Mr Murphy reacted in an aggressive manner. He had locked himself in the bathroom and refused to co operate with gardai. He told gardai that he would assault them if given the chance to do so. Members of the Armed Support Unit had to break in to the bathroom with Mr Murphy grabbing a needle and a syringe with a liquid it it and spraying it in to the eyes of one of the guards. The accused had to be restrained with pepper spray. The garda needed to take preventative antibiotics. He underwent a blood test where he was found negative for HIV and Hepatitis. Mr Murphy has 64 previous convictions for offences such as robbery and assault. Judge Boyle said that the offence consisted of 'an assault using a syringe.' 'The guard was only there to assist you and to stop you from taking your own life. Gardaí are entitled to go about their duties without risk of serious illness and assault.' She described as mitigating factors in the case the signed plea of guilty to assault and the fact that Mr Murphy was going through a 'mental health crisis.' Judge Boyle also noted that Mr Murphy was making a 'great effort' to beat his alcohol and drug addiction. 'Your drug use exacerbates your mental health difficulties. I am satisfied you have done your best to stay away from drugs and to mind your mental health since this.' She imposed a sentence of two and a half years suspending the last 12 months of the sentence. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Daily Express
15-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Express
Diseases that come with floods
Published on: Sunday, June 15, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jun 15, 2025 By: Dr Veshny Ganesan, Dr Holly Girlchy Jastin and Dr Muhd Suhail Abd Wali Text Size: FLOODS are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, affecting thousands of families across Sabah. Beyond the destruction of homes and infrastructure, floods pose a serious health threat by increasing the risk of infectious diseases. Advertisement Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures is crucial for building a resilient community that can withstand and recover from flood-related health challenges. The Health Risks: Diseases That Rise with the Waters Public health officials warn that floodwaters are often contaminated with sewage, animal waste, and chemicals, creating the perfect storm for outbreaks of diarrheal diseases, hepatitis, typhoid, and leptospirosis. The hardest hit are typically rural and low-income areas, where access to clean water and sanitation is already a challenge. When floodwater rises, it carries contaminated waste, bacteria, and viruses that can lead to outbreaks of waterborne, vector-borne, and respiratory infections. 1. Waterborne diseases occur from drinking or coming into contact with contaminated water. Leptospirosis spreads through contact with water contaminated by rodent urine. Cholera and diarrhea are caused by bacteria like Vibrio cholerae and E. coli in contaminated water. Hepatitis A and E are viral infections transmitted through contaminated food and water. 2. Vector-borne diseases are spread by mosquitoes breeding in stagnant floodwaters. Dengue Fever and Malaria are caused by mosquitoes that thrive in stagnant water left by floods. Chikungunya and Zika Virus are emerging threats in flood-prone regions. 3. Respiratory infections may occur from overcrowding and poor sanitation in evacuation shelters. Pneumonia and Tuberculosis spread in crowded conditions with inadequate ventilation. Skin and Fungal Infections due to prolonged exposure to dirty floodwater. How Communities can Prevent Disease Outbreaks While floods are inevitable, flood-related diseases are preventable. Communities can take the following precautionary steps to stay safe: Ensure Safe Drinking Water: Boil water for at least one minute or use water purification tablets before drinking. Recovery from flood: Clean and disinfect homes and surroundings after flooding. Dispose of waste properly to avoid contaminating local water sources. Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Drain stagnant water in homes and public areas to reduce mosquito populations. Practice Personal Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating. Use Protective Gear: Wear boots and gloves when cleaning up flood-affected areas to prevent skin infections and leptospirosis. Seek Medical Help Promptly: If you are experiencing fever, diarrhea, or unusual skin infections, visit the nearest health center for immediate care. The Role of Community in Resilience and Recovery A resilient community works together before, during, and after floods. Here's how communities can strengthen their defenses: Emergency Preparedness Plans: Establish community response teams and evacuation procedures. Local leaders and volunteers can be trained to conduct health talks, distribute water filters, and assist during emergency response operations. Public Awareness Campaigns: Conduct health education on flood risks through community meetings, radio broadcasts, and social media. Community Clean-Up Drives: Organize post-flood sanitation efforts to prevent outbreaks. Support for Vulnerable Groups: Ensure that the elderly, children, and people with disabilities receive priority assistance. Call to Action: Be a Flood-Resilient Community! As the climate crisis intensifies, flooding is no longer a seasonal hazard but a recurring public health emergency. By staying informed and prepared, we can protect our families and communities. Join hands in building resilience against flood-related diseases—because a strong, healthy community starts with you! The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: [email protected]
Business Upturn
11-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Novotech Showcased in Global Biotech Series for Innovation in Hepatitis B Research
Sydney, Australia: Novotech, a globally recognized full-service clinical research organization (CRO) and scientific advisory company, is featured in The Next Frontier, a global branded series presented by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: Novotech, a global (CRO) and scientific advisory company, is featured in The Next Frontier, a global branded series presented by BIO and produced by BBC StoryWorks Commercial Productions. The Next Frontier explores how biotechnology is addressing some of the world's most urgent health and sustainability challenges. As part of the series, Novotech highlights its partnership with Tune Therapeutics in advancing a functional cure for Hepatitis B, a chronic disease impacting nearly 300 million people globally. As the global leader in Hepatitis clinical trials, Novotech brings deep therapeutic expertise and global execution capabilities to accelerate development and delivery for sponsors. Filmed in New Zealand with world-leading hepatologist Professor Edward Gane, where an estimated 100,000 people are living with Hepatitis B, the feature highlights Novotech's partnership model for supporting biotech and small to mid-size pharma sponsors. It demonstrates how Novotech accelerates clinical development through access to expert investigators, targeted patient populations, and efficient trial infrastructure across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America, while showcasing its global capabilities in infectious disease research and trial delivery. 'Our inclusion in this series reflects Novotech's commitment to supporting innovators with smarter, faster, and more regionally tailored clinical solutions,' said Tom Hickey, Director of Therapeutic Strategy. 'Hepatitis B remains a significant global health challenge, and our teams are proud to have such a long history contributing to meaningful progress in this area.' The series will officially launch at the BIO International Convention in Boston on June 16, 2025, and is now available globally via digital platforms at . About Novotech Novotech is a globally recognized full-service clinical research organization (CRO) and scientific advisory company trusted by biotech and small- to mid-sized pharmaceutical companies to guide drug development at every phase. With a global footprint that includes 30+ offices across the Asia-Pacific region, North America, and Europe and partnerships with 5,000+ trial sites, Novotech provides clients an accelerated path to bring life-changing therapies to market by providing access to key clinical trial destinations and diverse patient populations. Through its client-centric service model, Novotech seamlessly integrates people, processes, and technologies to deliver customized solutions that accelerate the path to market for life-changing therapies. By adopting a true partnership approach, Novotech shares a steadfast commitment to client success, empowering innovation, and advancing healthcare worldwide. Recipient of numerous industry accolades, including the Frost & Sullivan CRO Company of the Year award for 19 consecutive years, Novotech is recognized for its excellence in clinical trial execution and innovation. Its deep therapeutic and regulatory expertise, combined with local market insights, ensures streamlined clinical trials, optimized data analytics, and accelerated patient recruitment strategies. Together with clients, Novotech transforms scientific advancements into therapies that improve global health outcomes, embodying a mission of driving innovation and delivering impactful results. For more information or to speak to an expert team member visit View source version on Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Business Wire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
