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What is Alaskapox? Origin and symptoms of viral disease that claimed a life in US

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Most of the patients infected with the Alaskapox virus have had one or more skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes and joint or muscle pain. Normally, patients initially thought that they had a spider or insect bite.

The death of an elderly man from the Kenai Peninsula in the US due to Alaskapox, which was first detected in 2015, has led to a huge concern among the public and captured the attention of health experts and scientists. According to a release from the Alaska Department of Health, the immunocompromised man died last month from the disease. He was receiving treatment at the time and was among the seven cases of the infectious disease reported in recent times.

What is Alaskapox?

The viral disease is caused by the orthopox virus, which usually infects mammals and causes skin lesions. It is believed to have first surfaced in the human population around 2015 when a woman, who lived near Fairbanks, was infected with the virus.

ALSO READ | WHO to rename monkeypox as ‘MPOX’? Here’s why

As per the Alaska Department of Health release, six cases of Alaskapox have been reported in Fairbanks North Star Borough, while one infection occurred in a person in the Kenai Peninsula borough.

It further stated that so far “human-to-human transmission of Alaskapox virus has not yet been observed.”

“Some orthopoxviruses can spread by direct contact with lesions (particularly broken skin contact with lesion secretions). Therefore, we advise individuals with skin lesions potentially caused by Alaskapox to keep the affected area covered with a bandage and avoid sharing bedding or other linens that have come into contact with the lesion,” it added.

Alaskapox – Origin

The Alaskapox virus primarily occurs in small mammals. As per studies, the virus is present in several small mammal species in Alaska, while its prevalence extends to areas outside of the Fairbanks North Star region. Alaskapox shares its lineage with pathogens like smallpox and monkeypox.

“We are not sure exactly how the virus spreads from animals to people but contact with small mammals and potentially domestic pets who come into contact with small wild mammals could play a role,” the Alaska Health Department said.

Alaskapox – Symptoms

Those infected with the Alaskapox virus have had one or more skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and joint or muscle pain.

Most of these patients initially thought that they had a spider or insect bite. Almost all of them had mild illnesses that resolved on their own in a few weeks, except for the one patient who died in February.

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
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nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
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nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

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World Zoonoses Day: What is zoonoses and why is the day observed

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

July 6 has been recognised as World Zoonoses Day to commemorate the historic events of French biologist Louis Pasteur administering the very first dose of the vaccine against rabies on this day in 1885.

World Zoonoses Day is observed on July 6 every year to honour the very first vaccination that was administered for the zoonotic diseases. This day aims to educate, aware and communicate on the diseases that start in animals and can be transmitted to humans.

What is Zoonosis?

Zoonosis is any disease or infection that gets transmitted from an animal to humans. The transmitted agents of the infection could be any bacterial, viral or any parasitic pathogen. It can spread through contact with animals, by sharing food or water and even the environment with affected persons or pets. Rise in zoonotic diseases can cause problems in rearing of animals as well as consumption of animal products.

Some of the common zoonotic diseases are Rabies, Ebola, Swine Flu, Zika, Plague, Dengue and Covid-19, among others. The common symptoms of Zoonoses are fever, headache, fatigue and diarrhoea.

The viral zoonoses are not easy to treat even though there are vaccines, antiviral drugs and therapies available for treatment. The use of herbal medicines and conscious diet practice can also help in treating the zoonosis disease. On the other hand, bacterial zoonoses diseases are treated by consuming antibiotics. However, the major challenge in treating the diseases under Zoonoses is the bacteria becoming drug resistant due to improper use of antibiotics, which might allow the zoonosis to be untreatable in the future.

History of World Zoonoses Day

July 6 has been recognised as World Zoonoses Day to commemorate the historic events of French biologist Louis Pasteur administering the very first dose of the vaccine against rabies on July 6, 1885. It was given to a little boy Joseph Meister, who was bitten by a rabid dog. This vaccine by Pasteur not only prevented the boy from getting rabies but also saved his life.

Why is World Zoonoses Day observed

The World Zoonoses Day is observed to spread awareness regarding the infectious zoonotic diseases. It is also an important occasion to commemorate the contributions of Louis Pasteur and other scientists who invented many vaccines to combat zoonotic diseases. The day serves as an occasion to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases.

Also Read:Cocaine found at US White House? What we know so far

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
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What is Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF)? Causes, symptoms and treatment

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The deadly virus has already spread to the UK, Pakistan and countries in Europe and Africa.

A new threat of a deadly virus has emerged after Pakistani health officials reported two deaths from the deadly Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF). The virus was earlier found to be spreading in Europe and the UK, while Namibia had declared an outbreak of the virus in May.

According to the World Health Organization, the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is caused by a tick-borne virus (nairovirus) and it has a case fatality rate of 10 to 40 percent.

Alert issued for countries

A high alert was issued in Pakistan after two deaths and 16 cases of the virus were reported in Balochistan this year. Eleven of the total cases were reported this month, according to Al Jazeera.

In the UK, the government’s Science, Innovation and Technology Committee has also been informed of a “highly likely” spread of the Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) due to climate change.

“The ticks are moving up through Europe due to climate change, with longer and drier summers,” said Professor Ali Mirazimi, a virologist at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden in a Mirror report.

In May, Namibia declared an outbreak of CCHF after a patient died in the capital Windhoek.

The virus has been spreading in Europe too in countries like Spain where one death was reported in Madrid in April.

What is Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever?

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral fever which causes haemorrhages in the body. It is usually transmitted by ticks but it can also be contracted through contact with infected animal tissue.

The virus can lead to epidemics, and it has a high case-fatality ratio of 10-40 percent.

Also read: 23 monkeypox cases reported in India till December 8 this year, says minister

The disease, which is endemic in Africa, the Balkans, the Middle East and Asia, can cause outbreaks as it is difficult to prevent and treat.

How does it spread?

The virus is primarily spread by a type of tick that infects small animals in early stages of life and then moves to larger animals like livestock.

The infected tick can produce thousands of infected eggs and the young ticks further spread the infection.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever can also contract through contact with infected animal tissues during and after the slaughter of infected animals.

Symptoms

The incubation period of the disease is usually 1–3 days after a tick bite, with a maximum of 9 days. The same is usually 5–6 days in case of contact with infected animal tissue.

Symptoms of CCHF are sudden. These include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle ache
  • Dizziness
  • Neck pain
  • Backache and headache
  • Sore eyes and photophobia (sensitivity to light)

There could be nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, followed by sharp mood swings and confusion. After 2–4 days sleepiness, depression and lassitude, may set in with detectable liver enlargement.

Other clinical signs include:

  • Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
  • Lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes)
  • Petechial rash (a rash caused by bleeding into the skin) on internal surfaces, such as the mouth, throat, and on the skin.

Treatment

As per the WHO, general supportive care with treatment of symptoms is the primary approach to managing the disease. Anti-viral drug Ribavirin could also be used in oral and intravenous formulations.

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
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What is Powassan virus and why the US government is warning people about it

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Powassan virus is primarily transmitted to humans through bites from infected deer ticks, groundhog ticks, or squirrel ticks. Infections have been reported in the United States, Canada, and Russia. Know all about its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

The US health officials have started warning people about a rare virus called ‘Powassan virus’ following the death of a resident in Sagadahoc County, Maine. The recent fatality marks the third case in Maine since 2015 due to this non-treatable illness transmitted by ticks.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Powassan virus is primarily transmitted to humans through bites from infected deer ticks, groundhog ticks, or squirrel ticks.

The virus is not transmitted from person to person, except in rare instances by blood transfusion. It can be transmitted through blood, so people who were recently diagnosed with Powassan virus infection should not donate blood and bone marrow for 120 days following infection, CDC said.

While Powassan virus cases are rare, there has been an increase in documented cases in recent years. Infections have been reported in the United States, Canada, and Russia. The most affected regions are in the Great Lakes area of North America, with transmission occurring between late spring and mid-autumn.

Also Read: China braces for new Covid wave with up to 65 million weekly cases

Here are some important details about the symptoms of Powassan virus and how to protect yourself, as mentioned by the CDC:

Symptoms

  • The majority of Powassan virus-infected individuals do not show any symptoms.
  • For those who do experience symptoms, they typically manifest within one week to one month after a tick bite.
  • Initial symptoms may include fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness.
  • Severe cases of Powassan virus can lead to brain infection (encephalitis) or inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).
  • Symptoms of severe disease may include confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, and seizures.
  • Approximately one out of 10 people with severe disease die, while those who survive often face long-term health problems such as recurring headaches, muscle loss, weakness, and memory issues.

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers diagnose Powassan virus infection based on:

  • Signs and symptoms.
  • History of living in or traveling to an area where Powassan virus is known to  circulate.
  • History of possible exposure to the ticks that can carry the Powassan virus.
  • Laboratory testing of blood or spinal fluid.

Treatment

  • Currently, there are no specific medications available to prevent or treat a Powassan virus infection, as antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
  • Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications can help alleviate some symptoms.
  • Individuals with severe disease often require hospitalisation to receive support for breathing, hydration, and reduction of brain swelling.

Also Read: Lumpy virus threat looms large in Hamirpur, Una districts of Himachal Pradesh

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
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What is zombie virus and why is Twitter buzzing about it?

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The 48,000-year-old zombie virus had buried under frozen lake in Russia, and it was unearthed by scientists from the French National Centre for Scientific Researchers.

Scientists have revived a 48,000-year-old ‘zombie virus’ found in the permafrost region of Siberia, Russia. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the news of a virus stirs panic and triggers memes on Twitter. To no one’s surprise, the zombie virus quickly emerged as a Twitter trend.

The zombie virus had buried under frozen lake in Russia, and it was unearthed by scientists from the French National Centre for Scientific Researchers. They found over a dozen of archaic viruses from the Siberian permafrost and the oldest of them, dubbed as Pandoravirus yedoma, is known to be 48,500 years old.

Although the threat from these viruses can’t be estimated currently, scientists have found that these viruses remain infectious despite being dormant for hundreds of millennia.

Also read: New Alzheimer’s drug found effective in reducing cognitive decline, claims study

According to the European team of researchers who found the viruses, it is likely that ancient permafrost will release these unknown viruses after it thaws due to increasing global warming. People are expected to populate these areas after they become habitable which is when there may be a threat of new viruses infecting life forms.

Even though the revelation stirred panic at first, it soon turned into a memefest on Twitter. Many creative users came up with hilarious memes as they thought the world is nearing its end with another COVID like virus.

Users expressed that the joy of moving past the COVID-19 pandemic has been cut short.

Other creative users drew used the classic Endgame meme to signal humanity’s end.

While binge watchers related to the news in their own way by calling it the next episode of the viral saga.

Enthusiasts of zombie movies geared up to recreate the apocalypse scene.

One creative user even tried to express how God must be feeling.

While the COVID-19 pandemic and zombie apocalypse were the trending themes, the pain of medical students wasn’t ignored either.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
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nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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New COVID-like virus found in bats could infect humans, resist vaccines, says study

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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The researchers determined Khosta-1 posed a low risk to humans, but Khosta-2 demonstrated some troubling traits. They found that like S-CoV-2, Khosta-2 can use its spike protein to infect cells by attaching to a receptor protein, called angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), found throughout human cells.

A newS-CoV-2-like virus discovered in Russian bats is capable of infecting humans, and is resistant to current vaccines against COVID-19, a study has found. A team led by researchers at Washington State University (WSU), US, found spike proteins from the bat virus, named Khosta-2, can infect human cells and is resistant to both the antibody therapies and blood serum from people vaccinated for S-CoV-2.

A virus uses the spike protein to enter and infect human cells. Both Khosta-2 and S-CoV-2 belong to the same sub-category of coronaviruses known as sarbecoviruses.

“Our research further demonstrates that sarbecoviruses circulating in wildlife outside of Asia — even in places like western Russia where the Khosta-2 virus was found — also pose a threat to global health and ongoing vaccine campaigns against S-CoV-2,” said Michael Letko, corresponding author of the study. The finding, published in the journal PLoS Pathogens, highlights the need to develop universal vaccines to protect against sarbecoviruses in general, rather than just against known variants of S-CoV-2.

“Right now, there are groups trying to come up with a vaccine that doesn’t just protect against the next variant of S-2 but actually protects us against the sarbecoviruses in general,” Letko said. “Unfortunately, many of our current vaccines are designed to specific viruses we know infect human cells or those that seem to pose the biggest risk to infect us,” the scientist added.

While hundreds of sarbecoviruses have been discovered in recent years, predominantly in bats in Asia, the majority are not capable of infecting human cells. The Khosta-1 and Khosta-2 viruses were discovered in Russian bats in late 2020, and it initially appeared they were not a threat to humans, the researchers said. “Genetically, these weird Russian viruses looked like some of the others that had been discovered elsewhere around the world, but because they did not look like S-CoV-2, no one thought they were really anything to get too excited about,” Letko said. “But when we looked at them more, we were really surprised to find they could infect human cells. That changes a little bit of our understanding of these viruses, where they come from and what regions are concerning,” he added.

The researchers determined Khosta-1 posed a low risk to humans, but Khosta-2 demonstrated some troubling traits. They found that like S-CoV-2, Khosta-2 can use its spike protein to infect cells by attaching to a receptor protein, called angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), found throughout human cells.

The team then set out to determine if current vaccines protect against the new virus. Using blood serum derived from people vaccinated for COVID-19, the researchers found that Khosta-2 was not neutralised by current vaccines. They also tested serum from people who were infected with the Omicron variant, but the antibodies, too, were ineffective.

Letko said the new virus is lacking some of the genes believed to be involved in pathogenesis in humans. There is a risk, however, of Khosta-2 recombining with a second virus like S-CoV-2.

“When you see S-2 has this ability to spill back from humans and into wildlife, and then there are other viruses like Khosta-2 waiting in those animals with these properties we really don’t want them to have, it sets up this scenario where you keep rolling the dice until they combine to make a potentially riskier virus,” Letko added.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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India reports 9 monkeypox cases, 1 death — List of states where infection has been found

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak a global health emergency last week. Here’s a list of Indian states where monkeypox cases have been reported till August 4.

India has reported nine monkeypox cases so far. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak a global health emergency. The announcement came after more than 16,000 cases of monkeypox were reported in more than 75 countries and five people died due to the infection in Africa.

Here’s a list of Indian states where monkeypox cases have been reported till August 4.

Five monkeypox cases in Kerala: 

1. The first case of monkeypox was confirmed in the Kollam district of Kerala. The person had returned from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). All his contacts were identified, and 11 of his co-passengers, his family members, an auto-driver, a taxi driver and a dermatologist of a private hospital where the infected person sought treatment were kept under observation. The patient has recovered from the disease.

2. The second positive case was reported in Kannur. “The 31-year-old man from Kannur is currently undergoing treatment at Pariyaram Medical College. The patient’s health condition is reported to be satisfactory. Those in close contact with him have been put under surveillance,” said Veena George.

3. The third case was confirmed after a 35-year-old man, who had returned to Malappuram from the UAE, tested positive for the virus.

4. A 22-year-old man, who died in Kerala on July 30, tested positive for monkeypox on August 1, sources told news agency PTI. The man had returned from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where his samples also tested positive for the disease, sources said. This was also the first death reported due to the disease in the country.

5. On August 2, Kerala Health Minister Veena George was quoted by ANI as saying that a 30-year-old man, who had reached Kozhikode airport on July 27 from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), had tested positive for monkeypox virus. He was undergoing treatment in Malappuram.

Four monkeypox cases in Delhi

1. The country’s fourth case of monkeypox was reported in Delhi on Sunday. A 34-year-old man with no travel history was admitted to the Maulana Azad Medical College with fever and skin lesions, the Health Ministry said. His samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) Pune on Saturday which came out positive, sources said. “Contact tracing process has been initiated,” the sources said. He has now been discharged from the hospital after recovery.

2. A 35-year-old Nigerian, with no recent history of foreign travel, reportedly tested positive for monkeypox. “His samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune. The report which arrived Monday evening showed he was positive,” PTI quoted official sources as saying.

3. On August 2, another Nigerian was reported to be infected with the virus.

4. Delhi reported its fourth monkeypox case on August 3. According to reports, a 31-year-old Nigerian woman tested positive for the disease. She is the first woman in India to test positive for monkeypox. She was diagnosed with fever and skin lesions and is admitted to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital.

About monkeypox

(Credit: Ministry of Health Affairs)
(Credit: Ministry of Health Affairs)

Monkeypox infection is treated with lotions and fever medications and if there is any blood infection or viral pneumonia, adequate medications are administered. The ‘Guidelines on Management of Monkeypox Disease’ issued by the Centre stated that human-to-human transmission occurs primarily through large respiratory droplets generally requiring prolonged close contact.

It can also be transmitted through direct contact with body fluids or lesions, and indirect contact with lesion material such as through contaminated clothing or linen of an infected person. Animal-to-human transmission may occur by bite or scratch of infected animals or through bush meat preparation.

(Credit: Ministry of Health Affairs)
(Credit: Ministry of Health Affairs)

(With inputs from ANI, PTI)

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Norovirus detected in Kerala: All you need to know about its symptoms, treatment, and prevention

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Noroirus spreads through contaminated water and the tiny particles of the faeces and vomit of infected individuals. The microscopic viral particles can contaminate food, water, and surfaces.

After the Kerala government confirmed two cases of norovirus infection in two lower primary school students in Thiruvananthapuram on June 5, state health minister Veena George warned that the virus is highly contagious and emphasised the need to be vigilant.

“Norovirus infection has been detected in two children and their health condition is stable. There is no need to be concerned at the moment, but everyone should remain careful and maintain cleanliness,” George told news agency PTI.

As per officials, the students got food poisoning after consuming mid-day meals served at the school. The virus that is similar to the diarrhoea-inducing rotavirus spreads through contaminated water and food.

Last year, Kerala had reported norovirus cases in the Wayanad district. As per a TOI report, the outbreak affected 76 people at the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences in Pookode. The water sources of the college were chlorinated after the college suspected students of catching the virus from a local fast-food centre.

ALSO READ: Explained: Prevention, treatment and vaccines effective against monkeypox infection

Towards the end of last year, Kerala witnessed close to 1000 cases of acute diarrhoea.

What is the norovirus?

Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea. It can infect people of all ages. It is also called the “winter vomiting bug” or stomach flu or stomach bug, however, it is not related to other viruses that cause the flu.

The virus has a short incubation period of just 24-48 hours, but it can also take 1-2 days to take effect after exposure. The patients experience stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea post infection. Most patients recover completely without any medical treatment within 1-3 days. However, some need urgent medical care as the resulting dehydration is a greater risk. The elderly, infants and people with pre-existing medical conditions and comorbidities are at risk of dehydration.

ALSO READ: More monkeypox cases likely to emerge globally; to soon provide guidance on how to mitigate spread: WHO

How does it spread?

The virus spreads through contaminated water and the tiny particles of the faeces and vomit of infected individuals. The microscopic viral particles can contaminate food, water, and surfaces. The norovirus is extremely contagious because only a tiny number of particles are needed to infect an individual.

The disease is animal-borne, and it spreads to humans through water or food that has been contaminated by the infected animal’s faeces. This can be through contact or other vectors like houseflies and cockroaches.

According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an infected individual may shed billions of viral particles over the course of their illness. Even though the illness only lasts a few days, individuals can still spread viral particles for weeks afterwards.

The virus usually spreads in close confines like hospitals, nursing homes, child-care centres, and schools. Places where it is easier for infected individuals to cross-contaminate water and food are at higher risk. Much like other viral diseases, some individuals may be asymptomatic after being infected by the virus. However, they can still infect others.

Symptoms

Diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain are common symptoms of the disease while fever, body ache and headaches are also seen sometimes.

Due to the loss of fluids, some patients may quickly become dehydrated. Some common symptoms of dehydration are feeling thirsty, dark yellow and strong-smelling pee, feeling dizzy or lightheadedness, feeling tired, having a dry mouth, lips and eyes, peeing fewer than four times a day and in a small volume. If a patient is suspected of being dehydrated then adequate fluid intake over a long period of time must be ensured along with a steady supply of electrolytes.

Severe symptoms of dehydration include urinating small amounts of dark-coloured urine, or not urinating, severe diarrhoea or vomiting, and muscle cramps. In such cases, immediate medical assistance should be sought as severe and even moderate dehydration can lead to seizures, permanent brain damage, and even death.

Treatment 

There is no specific medicine to treat norovirus infection. However, patients should increase their fluid intake in the form of soups, juices, oral rehydration solutions, electrolytes and water to stave off dehydration. Most patients are able to recover within 72 hours from the onset of their symptoms, but patients must be careful to not spread the disease to other individuals since they can still shed viral particles even after they have recovered.

Prevention

Proper hygiene is essential to prevent an infection. Washing your hands with soap before eating or handling food, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and maintaining proper hygiene when sick can stop the spread of the disease. Ensuring that infected individuals stay apart from individuals who are at risk of falling severely sick is also advised.

ALSO READ: Norovirus outbreak in Kerala: All you need to know about its symptoms, treatment and prevention

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Explained: Parvovirus that infected 2,000 dogs in Maharashtra’s Amravati

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that dogs can get. It has a 90 percent mortality rate, but an be prevented with proper vaccination, experts have said.

Veterinarians are cautioning dog owners of a serious outbreak of the canine parvovirus that infected nearly 2,000 pet and stray dogs in Amravati, Maharashtra, last month. As per experts, the recent rise could be caused by the delay in vaccination of dogs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian Express reported.

In Amravati city, nearly 50 percent of the city’s dog population, or 2,000 pet and stray dogs, were affected by the virus last month. Government-run clinics are reporting the infection in 20 dogs daily, Amravati-based WASA Conservation organisation, a rescue centre for stray dogs, said. According to the organisation, 17 stray dogs died during treatment last month, though there was no official data available on the total number of deaths, Indian Express reported.

What is parvovirus?

The parvovirus is a highly contagious virus, which has a 90 percent mortality rate. The disease can be prevented with proper vaccination. The virus, which was first discovered in India in 1980, has two forms, cardiac and intestinal, with the latter being more prevalent. Once the parvovirus enters the intestinal tract of canines, it may cause dehydration, bloody diarrhoea, drastic weight loss, vomiting and lethargy. The virus affects most dogs, especially Rottweilers, Labradors, and German Shepherds.

How does the infection spread?

Dogs can get exposed to the virus if they come in direct contact with another infected pet or stray. They may get the virus if they sniff, consume or lick infected faeces. The virus can also spread from indirect contact with a contaminated object like hands and clothing of people handling infected dogs. The canine parvovirus is not airborne, but it can survive for months. Although immune to several disinfectants, it is susceptible to dilute bleach and specialised clearers.

Remedy and treatment

Vaccines against the parvovirus are available for puppies. Puppies are injected the first dose when they are 45 days old, followed by the second dose 21 days later. The vaccination needs to be continued every year. Immunity for the virus remains for several years, making it unlikely for a dog who has recovered from the infection to get it again. There are no home remedies for parvo and the infected dog has to be put in supportive care.

Vets have advised pet owners and dog lovers to refrain from touching a dog on the street. They have also asked pet owners not to take their dogs out unless they are fully vaccinated.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Omicron variant was circulating in nations before it was identified in South Africa: Experts

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

Many cases of the Omicron variant that are surfacing in different parts of the world have no travel connection to southern Africa. So, experts say this strain ― first identified in South Africa ― had already been circulating undetected for quite some time.

As the COVID-19’s new Omicron variant has spread to 38 nations in less than two weeks,  experts say this strain ― first identified in South Africa ― had already been circulating undetected for quite some time.
According to virologists and epidemiologists, the variant was in circulation in several countries before South Africa’s health authorities alerted the world to its presence. The inference is based on the fact that many cases of the Omicron variant that are surfacing in different parts of the world have no travel connection to the southern African region where the virus was first reported. This, according to experts, suggests that community transmission of the virus has already begun.
For instance, the nine people that initially tested positive for the variant in Scotland had all attended a private event. However, none of the attendees visited southern Africa in the recent past. Similarly, in Germany, a man who was found infected with Omicron had not gone outside the country in a long time, neither did his contacts.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also said the origin of this variant is unknown and that it is wrong to put restrictive travel measures on southern African countries. “The only thing we are sure about, when a country detects a virus, is that that country’s surveillance system is good. That’s what happened in southern Africa. So this discourages the travel ban even more because … it is like a measure against a good surveillance system,” Dr Abdou Salam Gueye, regional emergency director in WHO’s Africa office, told CNBC.
In a press briefing on Friday, WHO officials said that is too early to confirm if existing COVID-19 vaccines would fight the new variant or not. However, people have been urged to remain calm and follow all protocols.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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