Latest news with #non-Covid
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
People with Covid-like symptoms took almost a year before feeling like themselves again, researchers say
Did you have Covid-like symptoms? It may take nine months or even longer to start feeling like yourself again. Researchers at UCLA found that 20 percent of patients with those symptoms continued experiencing suboptimal quality of life for nearly a year after infection. Whereas, physical well-being returned after only three months. "We have newly recognized the difference in recovery with respect to mental vs. physical well-being after a COVID infection," Lauren Wisk, an assistant professor of medicine at UCLA, said in a statement. "The findings showed that health care professionals need to pay more attention to their patients' mental well-being after a Covid infection and provide more resources that will help improve their mental health, in addition to their physical health,' she added. Wisk was one of the lead authors of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-funded study that was published Tuesday in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases. The study compared people who sought treatment for Covid-like symptoms. Of those, 75 percent tested positive for the virus. The rest were negative. Of the 4,700 participants who experienced the symptoms between mid-December 2020 and late August 2022, the people who were positive for Covid were statistically likelier to return to optimal health-related quality-of-life than their Covid-negative counterparts in the year following the infection. The authors said the findings suggest that health authorities may have previously underestimated the long-term effects of non-Covid infections on a patient's well-being. To reach these conclusions, researchers analyzed responses from nearly 1,100 Covid-positive patients and 317 Covid-negative negative patients, assessing aspects including physical function, anxiety, depression, fatigue, social participation, sleep disturbance, pain interference and cognitive function. They found that approximately one in five of those who were part of the study remained in poor overall quality of life, with a high likelihood of self-reporting long Covid for up to a year after initial infection. 'In this large, geographically diverse study of individuals with 12 months of follow-up after Covid-19-like illness, a substantial proportion of participants continued to report poor [overall quality of life], whether or not the inciting acute symptoms were due to SARS-CoV-2 or another illness,' they said. Mental well-being recovered gradually, with significant improvements manifesting between six and nine months after infection, researchers found. The authors said further research was needed, noting that it remains unclear which conditions the symptomatic Covid-negative patients were suffering from and that Covid tests can yield both false-positive and false-negative results. The common cold, allergies, flu and Covid share many similar symptoms. "Future research should focus on how to improve the treatment models of care for patients who continue to experience Covid-19 symptoms and their impact on patients' quality of life, especially as one in five patients may continue to suffer over a year after their initial infection, which likely reflects long Covid," Wisk said.
Time of India
08-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Elderly & kids with adenovirus history at greater Cov risk: Docs
Kolkata: The elderly with comorbidities, and children, especially those who suffered an adenovirus infection over the last three years, may be vulnerable to the existing Covid strains affecting many across Kolkata, said pulmonologists. Many of these patients suffer from associated respiratory illnesses, like recurring bouts of asthma, frequent bronchitis, COPD, or respiratory distress triggered by chest infections, and are at a greater risk of getting Covid. Children and the elderly form the bulk of Covid patients now admitted across city hospitals. While previously adenovirus-triggered pneumonia or respiratory tract infections would be cured without long-term impact, a large number of those affected since the pandemic experienced recurring infections that suggest a long-term impact, pulmonologists said. A reason could be that immunity against non-Covid viruses dropped sharply post-pandemic, according to CMRI Hospital pulmonology director Raja Dhar. "Since Covid left no room for other viruses, like rhinovirus, meta-pneumo virus, influenza viruses, and other upper respiratory viruses, for almost three years, immunity against these dropped. Also, since people remained at home, infection spread was minimized. Naturally, when these viruses returned post-Covid, the infection they caused was more severe due to the lower resistance. About 5% of these patients have a lasting scar on their lungs, but now we have come back to the previous immunity level," Dhar said. Kolkata experienced a major adenovirus outbreak during the winter of 2022-23, when thousands, mostly children, were affected. "Many of these children have recurring infections, though mild. But the infection has been more severe post-Covid. We saw many deaths during the 2022-23 outbreak that resulted from a more severe and prolonged infection than before. Also, cough, breathing distress, and fever have been recurring frequently among these children over the last two years. Many have required hospitalisation and steroids to recover," said paediatrician Shantanu Ray. RN Tagore Hospital intensivist Sauren Panja said, "The lasting and more severe impact of post-Covid respiratory infections, including adenovirus, might be due to immunological changes in our system during Covid or alterations in the adenovirus strain. There were a couple of major adenovirus outbreaks after Covid, and those infected have turned more susceptible to respiratory disorders, like cough and cold, breathing distress, nasal blockages, frequent bouts of asthma, or COPD. For a section of these patients, these are also triggered by the trauma and mental scars left by Covid." Those affected have been suffering from frequent lung infections, exacerbations of asthma and COPD, and respiratory tract infections, said Charnock Hospital pulmonologist Soumya Sengupta, adding: "These are also being triggered by frequent temperature fluctuations, since the mercury has been on a see-saw ride since last month. So, those who had an adenovirus infection need to be careful. Children have a smaller respiratory tract that saves them from long-term impact. So, while it has been affecting both children and the elderly, it hasn't led to permanent scars or lung fibrosis in most cases." "The elderly, who had adenovirus during that period, too, have turned more vulnerable to COPD, asthma, or respiratory tract infections. While some have fibrosis, though not acute, their resistance has dropped," said Panja.
Hindustan Times
01-06-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
With Covid-19 cases rising again in India, what precautions are states taking?
In light of the recent rise in Covid-19 cases across India, with 3,395 active cases currently, several states have begun implementing precautionary measures and issuing guidelines to help prevent the spread of new Omicron subvariants. These variants were identified through genome sequencing conducted primarily in the western and southern parts of the country. Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), told PTI that the increase in infections is being driven by subvariants of Omicron that are less severe. Behl said, 'Four subvariants of Omicron — LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1 — have been found. The first three have been found in more cases.' He further added, 'We have been closely monitoring the situation. At this moment, overall, we should monitor, be vigilant but there is no cause to worry.' Meanwhile, on Friday, Union minister of state for health and AYUSH (Independent Charge) Prataprao Jadhav assured the public that the central government is fully prepared to manage any potential situation. He told ANI, 'Both our Central Health Department and the AYUSH Ministry are fully alert and closely monitoring the situation across all states. We have spoken with the respective Health and AYUSH Secretaries, as well as other concerned ministers.' Jadhav also highlighted that the infrastructure developed during the previous Covid-19 waves has been reassessed, and preparations are already in motion. 'We've reviewed the infrastructure built during the earlier Covid waves, such as oxygen plants and ICU beds, and have already begun preparations. Our health systems are well-equipped and ready to handle any situation that may arise in response to Covid,' he said. In response to the growing number of Covid-19 cases in Karnataka, the department of health and family welfare services on Saturday appealed to the public to remain calm, alert, and cooperate with health authorities to curb the spread and maintain safety. An advisory was sent to Health Care Workers (HCWs) in both Covid and non-Covid healthcare areas across the state. The health department emphasised that Karnataka is actively tracking and managing the situation by focusing on prevention, early detection, and patient care. As Covid trends can shift, continued vigilance and adherence to guidelines remain essential. The advisory listed key instructions for healthcare staff: regularly screen and report cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI), Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI), and cases with co-morbidities through the P-Form on the IDSP-IHIP platform. It also instructed that all SARI cases and 5% of ILI cases be referred for RT-PCR testing at designated facilities, with same-day sample shipping. Testing is mandatory for high-risk groups — children, the elderly, and pregnant women — if symptoms are present. The department stressed the importance of timely uploading of test data on the IHIP portal and monitoring positivity rates and CT values. Covid-positive SARI samples should be sent to designated regional VRDLs for Whole Genome Sequencing in line with INSACOG guidelines. It also highlighted the importance of coordinating with authorities for sewage surveillance and maintaining everyday life while adhering to health advisories. "Call toll-free helpline number 1800 425 8330 for health advice, and 108 for emergency patient transport. Together, we can quickly identify and control potential illnesses, keeping ourselves and our people safe," the advisory said. On May 23, the Delhi government issued an advisory asking hospitals to ensure they are ready with sufficient beds, oxygen, medications, and vaccines to deal with rising Covid cases. Chief minister Rekha Gupta reassured the public on Thursday, saying, "19 Covid patients are hospitalised in Delhi, but there is no need to worry. The Delhi government is alert and hospitals are prepared to deal with any eventuality," she said. The advisory instructed that all medical equipment — including ventilators, Bi-PAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and PSA units — must be in working condition. "All equipment such as ventilators, Bi-PAP, oxygen concentrators and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) must be in functional condition," it added. In Odisha, Health Secretary Aswathy S addressed the public on Saturday, asking them not to panic and confirming that all Covid patients in the state are stable. "The latest ICMR report says that the present variant does not exhibit severe symptoms, and most cases are mild. Also, the Centre has not issued any guidelines, but advised all to remain vigilant in the wake of the changing weather," she said. She also assured that the state government is taking all necessary steps to handle the situation. Public health director Nilakantha Mishra said authorities are closely watching the case trends to stop further transmission. He encouraged people to get tested if they have symptoms and isolate as needed. In Arunachal Pradesh, state surveillance officer Lobsang Jampa urged residents to remain calm, saying the detected strain appears milder than past variants. "The health department is closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. We are also tracing all possible contacts the two women may have had," he added. He mentioned that a comprehensive health advisory will be released soon in coordination with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi. "A comprehensive public health advisory will be issued soon after consultation with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in Delhi," he said. (With ANI, PTI inputs)
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
With cases rising elsewhere, 3 Kol hospitals revive Covid safety steps
Kolkata: At least three private hospitals in Kolkata have revived Covid precautions in the wake of an outbreak in Southeast Asia and the detection of cases in Mumbai, Chennai and Ahmedabad. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Although almost no Covid case has been detected in Kolkata hospitals since last Dec, some have started collecting the travel history of those with symptoms and have recommended use of masks and sanitisers. Two hospitals have set aside isolation wards. BP Poddar Hospital has reintroduced several precautionary measures to ensure safety of patients, visitors, and healthcare staff. "We have reinstated our isolation ward, where we are planning to keep patients with a history of domestic or international travel, who have fever. They are being kept under observation where further treatment is carried out according to protocol," said Supriyo Chakrabarty, group advisor, BP Poddar Hospital. At the hospital's fever clinic, strict hygiene protocols have been revived, including the use of masks, hand sanitisers, and regular sanitisation of the premises. At Peerless Hospital, a two-bed isolation ward has been set aside for patients with Covid symptoms. "So far, we have not received any suspect. In case there is a surge, we will convert an entire ward overnight," said CEO Sudipta Mitra. Although Peerless is yet to begin screening patients with symptoms, it plans to identify those with a travel history to Southeast Asia. "We have not had a single Covid-positive patient since last Sept. Over the last week, we tested two non-Covid coronavirus positives. These are old strains, like 229E and OC 43. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now We are ready to revive Covid-19 tests, though," said Peerless Hospital chief microbiologist Bhaskar Narayan Chaudhuri. He added that the Jn1 strain currently in circulation was unlikely to trigger a severe disease since most have received two-three vaccinations and have developed immunity. Woodlands Hospital has revived use of sanitisers and started a campaign on hand hygiene. "We are keeping an eye on the situation," said CEO Rupak Barua. Charnock Hospital has received a few Covid-19 cases over the last month, though they have been mild and affected those with lower immunity, said Charnock pulmonologist Soumya Sengupta. "The new strain should not be more potent than the one that struck in the third wave. But we need to be careful since any viral infection could spread fast," Sengupta said. "At RN Tagore Hospital, we have isolation beds in the emergency, in the critical care areas, and in the wards. All infectious disease patients are isolated. We are following stringent protocols in all procedural areas to minimise the risk of cross infection during invasive procedures," said R Venkatesh, COO, Narayana Hospitals.
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight against the New York Knicks? Latest update on the Boston Celtics star's injury report for Game 2 (May 7, 2025)
Jayson Tatum in Game 1 (Image via Imagn) Jayson Tatum's injury report for Game 2 against the New York Knicks (May 7, 2025) Boston Celtics injury report for tonight's game against the New York Knicks (May 7, 2025) New York Knicks injury report for Game 2 against the Boston Celtics (May 7, 2025) When and where to watch the Boston Celtics play tonight against the New York Knicks (Game 2, My 7, 2025)? The Boston Celtics face a critical Game 2 against the New York Knicks on Wednesday night, but all eyes remain on Jayson Tatum's condition following a grueling overtime loss in the series opener. Despite a strong individual performance, Tatum's health will be pivotal as the Celtics look to even the Game 1, Jayson Tatum logged heavy minutes, finishing with 23 points, 16 rebounds, and six assists in 46 minutes of action. While he isn't listed on the injury report, his workload and physical play raise questions about his stamina moving forward. The Celtics' medical staff has not indicated any restrictions, but fatigue could be a factor as the series Celtics do have other injury concerns. Sam Hauser is doubtful with a right ankle sprain suffered in Game 1, while Kristaps Porzingis is probable despite battling a non-Covid illness that limited him to just 13 minutes in the opener. "He played through it, but we'll monitor his energy levels," a team source said regarding the Knicks enter Game 2 with a clean bill of health. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, who combined for 58 points in Game 1, will be at full strength as New York aims to take a commanding 2-0 is set for 7:00 PM ET at TD Garden, with coverage on TNT, truTV, and MAX. If the Celtics hope to reclaim home-court advantage, they'll need Jayson Tatum at his best—both physically and mentally—against a relentless Knicks 2 is shaping up to be a must-watch as the Celtics look to bounce back against a surging Knicks squad. Will Jayson Tatum's heavy minutes catch up to him, or will he deliver a signature playoff performance? Can Porzingis shake off his illness and make a bigger impact? And will the Knicks' clean injury report give them the edge again? The stakes couldn't be read: Kristaps Porzingis injury update for Game 2: Boston Celtics star's availability for game 2 against the New York Knicks (May 7, 2025) What's your prediction for tonight's game? Do you think the Celtics will even the series, or will the Knicks steal another win in Boston? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let's debate before tip-off!
