Latest news with #ICMR
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
GMCH launches app to help students manage epilepsy
1 2 Guwahati: The neurology department of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) launched a new mobile application on Friday to support students with epilepsy. The app aims to help them manage their condition more effectively and stay connected with their doctors. The initiative is part of an Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-funded project named 'Tele_ESSI'. This project is simultaneously being implemented in govt medical institutes of Punjab and Nagpur as well, making it a pan-India collaborative effort to improve epilepsy care and awareness through school-based interventions. The application was launched in the presence of 60 teachers from different schools of the Kamrup (Metro) district. ICMR's principal investigator (PI) Marami Das and co-PI Mehzabin Haider Hazarika led the launch. "The younger generation is our future. We have launched this initiative to protect them and ensure a better quality of life. Of every 1,000 babies, around five are diagnosed with epilepsy. Having adequate knowledge about the condition is crucial, as timely awareness can save lives. As part of the project launched last year, we visited 71 different schools in Kamrup (Metro) and screened over 10,000 students. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like USDJPY đang đi lên không? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Among them, 53 students were found to be epilepsy-positive, while 353 others were identified with various other medical conditions," said Marami. Highlighting the importance of awareness, Achyut Baishya, principal cum superintendent of GMCH said even medical students have been diagnosed with epilepsy, but with proper knowledge and timely treatment they have been able to manage their condition. He emphasised the need to dispel social stigma and superstitions that still surround epilepsy. "With this app, individuals with epilepsy can book appointments and stay in contact with the medical faculty and healthcare staff, ensuring better support. Additionally, the app will help them gain preliminary knowledge about the condition, including how to manage seizures, follow treatment plans, and understand the importance of medication adherence," Baishya said. Director of elementary education Suranjana Senapati, inspector of schools & district elementary education Deepika Choudhury, GMCH principal Achyut Baishya, HoDs of the departments of paediatrics and neurology of GMCH Anupama Deka and Munindra Goswami, were present at the launch.
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Science
- Business Standard
LIVE news updates: India refuses to sign SCO statement over lack of mention of cross-border terror
New Delhi Today's top news updates: Two people have died and six others remain missing following heavy rainfall and rising water levels near the Manuni stream in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district, officials reported. According to authorities, the SDRF, volunteers, and project personnel evacuated individuals from camping areas to a safer location near the Ambedkar building in Kaniara, where food and water were provided. Officials further stated that a sudden surge of water, triggered by heavy rain, inundated a residential colony within 15 minutes, leading to the tragic incident. In other developments, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has recruited three researchers from OpenAI to advance his company's superintelligence initiative, according to the Wall Street Journal. The hires — Lucas Beyer, Alexander Kolesnikov, and Xiaohua Zhai — were previously based at OpenAI's Zurich office. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has begun procuring two additional Mobile BSL-3 (MBSL-3) laboratories to enhance outbreak response capabilities and improve healthcare access in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Known as RAMBAAN, these mobile labs are the first-of-their-kind, fully indigenous Rapid Action Mobile BSL-3 units, designed for field deployment and equipped to handle diagnostic demands during outbreaks involving both known and novel high-risk pathogens. Developed under the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission by ICMR in collaboration with Klenzaids Contamination Controls Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, the RAMBAAN labs are currently stationed at the National Institute of Virology in Pune and the RMRC in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. These units were first deployed during the Nipah virus outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023, and again in Malappuram district in July 2024. 12:21 PM 2 killed, 50 injured as double-decker bus overturns on Lucknow-Agra Expressway Two passengers were killed and about 50 were injured when a double-decker bus travelling from Bihar to Delhi overturned and plunged into a ditch on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway in the Saifai area early Thursday, police said. The accident occurred near the Mandi village when the speeding bus lost control while attempting to overtake a truck. 10:05 AM Encounter breaks out between security forces, Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur An exchange of fire took place between security forces and Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district on Thursday, according to a police official. The gunfight erupted in the Abhujmaad forest during an anti-Naxalite operation, which was launched by a joint team of security personnel following intelligence reports about the presence of Maoist operatives. Connect with us on WhatsApp
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Early Clues, Lifelong Impact: Understanding Sickle Cell DiseaseUntitled Story
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is one of India's persistent public health concerns. It is a genetic blood disorder that alters the shape and function of red blood cells. These cells become sickle-shaped, stiff, and sticky, causing them to block blood flow. This can result in a range of complications, from pain crisis, extreme fatigue, infections, delayed growth, and organ damage. India faces 1.4 million SCD cases, with 20 million carriers nationwide SCD has a significant prevalence in India, particularly in certain high-risk regions across central and eastern states. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), approximately 20 million individuals carry the sickle cell trait, with over 1.4 million cases of SCD reported nationwide. Early identification remains the most effective way to prevent long-term damage. Why Early Detection Matters Many babies are screened for SCD at birth in countries with strong neonatal screening programs. In India, however, awareness is still growing, and universal screening is being scaled gradually under the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission. Launched by Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023, this mission aims to screen over 7 crore people by 2026 and eliminate the disease as a public health issue by 2047. Source: PIB – National Sickle Cell Mission, July 2023 Unfortunately, in the absence of early diagnosis, children with SCD may go undiagnosed until they experience a severe health episode. Subtle signs often mistaken for common ailments can be early indicators that something is wrong. Early Signs You Shouldn't Ignore 1. Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness Children with SCD often suffer from anaemia, resulting in chronic fatigue or breathlessness even after mild exertion. 2. Swollen Hands or Feet in Infants A condition known as "dactylitis," or painful swelling in hands and feet, can be one of the earliest signs of blocked blood flow due to sickled cells. 3. Recurring Infections The spleen, which plays a key role in fighting infections, may become damaged early in children with SCD, making them more vulnerable to fevers, pneumonia, and other bacterial infections. 4. Yellowing of the Eyes or Skin Jaundice is common in children with SCD due to the rapid breakdown of defective red blood cells. 5. Delayed Growth and Puberty Lack of healthy red blood cells can impact physical growth and hormonal development. 6. Pain Episodes or 'Pain Crises' Even without visible injury, children may complain of severe pain in the chest, abdomen, bones, or joints. These episodes can last hours or days. 'Sickle Cell Disease is not curable in all cases, but it is preventable and manageable. Early screening—especially premarital or prenatal—can significantly reduce the disease burden. And for those diagnosed, timely medical care can vastly improve quality of life,' says Dr. Dipty Jain, Former Chair, Dept of Pediatrics, Government Medical College, Nagpur, and Chairman of the Task Force on SCD Elimination. Taking Action If your child or someone in your family is showing multiple signs listed above—or if there is a family history of the disease—consult a medical professional. A simple blood test, such as the haemoglobin electrophoresis test or solubility test, can detect whether someone is a carrier or has the disease. Treatment and Management Options While there is currently no universal cure, treatment options can help manage the disease effectively: Hydroxyurea: A medication that reduces pain episodes and the need for transfusions. Vaccinations & Antibiotics: Essential to reduce infection risk, especially in young children. Routine Monitoring: Regular health checkups to monitor organ function and growth. Bone Marrow Transplant: The only known potential cure for some patients, especially children with matched donors. A National Call to Action India's National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission is now operational in 17 states and 278 districts. As of March 2024, June 2025, over 5,79,35,688 crore individuals have been screened. The mission prioritizes awareness, outreach, and community engagement, especially in regions with higher genetic prevalence. Source: In Closing Sickle Cell Disease rarely announces itself loudly. It enters quietly, through pain episodes, fatigue, mild fevers, or a child who seems to fall ill too often. But by recognising the early signs, seeking testing, and beginning treatment, we can change the story. Every timely diagnosis is a step towards healthier, longer lives and a future free from the burden of this inherited condition. Sources: National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission Guidelines – NHM, MoHFW Press Information Bureau: National Sickle Cell Mission Launch – July 2023 UN Resolution A/RES/63/237 – Recognition of World Sickle Cell Day PIB: Progress Update – March 2024 Note: This article has been produced on behalf of the brand by HT Brand Studio and does not have the journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. The information provided does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a registered medical practitioner for health-related concerns.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
ICMR in process to procure 2 more mobile BSL-3 laboratories to bolster India's outbreak response
New Delhi: The Indian Council of Medical Research ( ICMR ) has initiated the process of procuring two more Mobile BSL-3 (MBSL-3) laboratories to step up outbreak response capabilities and bolster public health delivery, especially in remote and inaccessible areas. Called RAMBAAN , there are currently two such laboratories - each stationed at ICMR's two institutes, the National Institute of Virology in Pune and the RMRC in Gorakhpur, UP. RAMBAAN is the first of its kind Rapid Action Mobile BSL-3 laboratory and is fully indigenous. It is field-deployable and designed to meet enhanced diagnostic demands during outbreaks of known and unknown high-risk pathogens. An initiative of ICMR, it was developed in partnership with Klenzaids Contamination Controls Private Limited, Mumbai, under the patronage of Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the apex research institute said. The MBSL-3 was successfully deployed and operationalised for the first time during the Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023 and again in Malappuram district of the state in July 2024, it said. This "laboratory on wheels" is built on a heavy-duty Bharat Benz vehicle chassis, compliant with BS-VI norms, designed to operate at extreme temperatures and altitudes and bears a maximum load capacity 17,000 kgs. It is classified as a Type-IV Rapid Response Mobile Laboratory (RRML) as per WHO GOARN RRML laboratory network classification. The laboratory is designed to maintain a negative air pressure environment and is equipped with an advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system with HEPA filters. It also features a double-door autoclave and a biological liquid effluent decontamination (BLED) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) fogger system for biological waste management. The MBSL-3 laboratory 's work area is divided into four zones -- zone-1 (driver and outer change room), zone-2 (shower and inner change room), zone-3 (main laboratory), and zone-4 (material staging and decontamination area). Key installations within these zones include biological safety cabinets (Class II A2), an intelligent programmable logic controller system, a dynamic pass box, and an entry-exit shower system with biometric control. The laboratory's power supply can be from a direct electric supply or a diesel generator, with an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) and petrol generators for backup. Communication within the laboratory is facilitated by walkie-talkies and real-time surveillance through CCTVs.
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
LIVE news updates: 2 dead, 6 missing after flash floods near Dharamshala
Today's top news updates: Two people have died and six others remain missing following heavy rainfall and rising water levels near the Manuni stream in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district, officials reported. According to authorities, the SDRF, volunteers, and project personnel evacuated individuals from camping areas to a safer location near the Ambedkar building in Kaniara, where food and water were provided. Officials further stated that a sudden surge of water, triggered by heavy rain, inundated a residential colony within 15 minutes, leading to the tragic incident. In other developments, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has recruited three researchers from OpenAI to advance his company's superintelligence initiative, according to the Wall Street Journal. The hires — Lucas Beyer, Alexander Kolesnikov, and Xiaohua Zhai — were previously based at OpenAI's Zurich office. Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has begun procuring two additional Mobile BSL-3 (MBSL-3) laboratories to enhance outbreak response capabilities and improve healthcare access in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Known as RAMBAAN, these mobile labs are the first-of-their-kind, fully indigenous Rapid Action Mobile BSL-3 units, designed for field deployment and equipped to handle diagnostic demands during outbreaks involving both known and novel high-risk pathogens. Developed under the Pradhan Mantri-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission by ICMR in collaboration with Klenzaids Contamination Controls Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai, the RAMBAAN labs are currently stationed at the National Institute of Virology in Pune and the RMRC in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. These units were first deployed during the Nipah virus outbreak in Kozhikode, Kerala, in September 2023, and again in Malappuram district in July 2024.
