Hospitals have a distinct smell because of the cleaning practices used to prevent infections. It has been a common belief that infections contracted during hospital stays were because of the bacteria acquired in the hospitals.

Hospitals have a distinct smell because of the cleaning practices used to prevent infections. It has been a common belief that infections contracted during hospital stays were because of the bacteria acquired in the hospitals. New research, however, denies the theory and reveals that the reason behind the hospital infections is the bacteria that are already present in or on the bodies of the patients before they reach them. The research published in Science Translational Medicine compared the bacteria that reside on and inside our bodies to the ones that cause healthcare-associated infections and found that most of the time the harmless bacteria that coexist with us when we are healthy cause serious infections when we are in hospitals. Why are surgical site infections so problematic? Surgical site infections are a major concern in healthcare settings. They not only add significantly to the annual expense of hospital-acquired infections, but they also raise the risk of hospital readmission and death after surgery. Despite considerable preventive efforts implemented by hospitals, surgical site infections have not decreased, accounting for around one in every thirty procedures. How and why do surgical infections occur in patients? To understand the reason behind surgical site infections, they conducted a study involving over 200 patients undergoing spinal surgery. They analysed bacteria from the patients' noses, skin, and stool before surgery and monitored them post-surgery. Also read: Mysterious, deadly bacteria spreading in Japan at record pace baffles authorities The findings revealed that 86 percent of bacteria causing infections after spine surgery were genetically matched to bacteria already present in the patients before surgery. Furthermore, nearly 60 percent of these infections displayed resistance to antibiotics administered during surgery or used as antiseptics before incision. How can this study help improve future cases of surgical infections? Understanding that patients' microbiomes play a significant role in surgical site infections offers a potential pathway for improved prevention strategies. Instead of employing standard preventive measures, personalised approaches tailored to individual microbiomes could prove more effective. However, further research is necessary to fully comprehend the implications of these findings and develop precise strategies for personalised infection prevention.

Most hospital infections come from bacteria living in you: Study

A study found that hospital sinks are the most likely source for spreading drug-resistant bacteria. The research was&nbsp;based on a superbug outbreak in a pediatric ward at the Toho University Omori Medical Center in Tokyo in 2017. The first case of the superbug was detected in a one-year-old boy hospitalised for heart disease in June 2016.

In March 2017, nine months later, a 15-year-old boy became the second person&nbsp;to contract the dangerous&nbsp;superbug.

Following this, the outbreak extended to affect 19 pediatric patients. Upon investigation, it was discovered that nine sinks were contaminated with CPE. Among these, six were located in hospital rooms with CPE-positive patients, while the remaining three were found in a nurse centre, a waste room, and an ice machine.

Genomic analysis found out&nbsp;the presence of bacterial strains such as "Klebsiella variicola, Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, and Escherichia coli."

Despite replacing all sinks in the pediatric ward with new ones properly disinfected with hydrogen peroxide, CPE contamination persisted, the team found.

Moreover, DNA sequences suggested that the resistance mechanism might have been transferred from one bacterial species to another within the hospital.

The team noted, "The discovery of the same bacterial species in sinks in adjoining rooms indicates that pathogen transmission may be possible from one sink to another via the drains and connected plumbing."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/accelerated-aging-heightens-cancer-risk-in-younger-population-study-709980">Also read |&nbsp;Accelerated ageing is heightening cancer risk in younger population: Study</a>

<h2>What were the preventive measures in place?</h2>

To mitigate further spread, preventive measures were put in place, including recommending hand disinfection after sink use, introducing disposable cleaning tools, prohibiting mouth-washing with sink water, and enacting disinfection and drying protocols for sink-exposed items.

The outbreak was finally contained in October 2017 after months of intensive infection control measures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/doctors-in-china-successfully-transplant-pig-kidney-into-brain-dead-human-patient-709688">Also read |&nbsp;Doctors in China successfully transplant pig kidney into brain-dead human patient</a>

Associate Professor Sadako Yoshizawa, from Toho University's Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, as quoted by IANS said, "Our experience highlights the importance of focusing on sinks and other water-related areas in hospital wards, as these are critical for CPE transmission and therefore major fronts in the fight against antibiotic resistance."

(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies)

A study found that hospital sinks are the most likely source for spreading drug-resistant bacteria. The research was based on a superbug outbreak in a pediatric ward at the Toho University Omori Medical Center in Tokyo in 2017.

A study found that hospital sinks are the most likely source for spreading drug-resistant bacteria. The research was based on a superbug outbreak in a pediatric ward at the Toho University Omori Medical Center in Tokyo in 2017. The first case of the superbug was detected in a one-year-old boy hospitalised for heart disease in June 2016. In March 2017, nine months later, a 15-year-old boy became the second person to contract the dangerous superbug. Following this, the outbreak extended to affect 19 pediatric patients. Upon investigation, it was discovered that nine sinks were contaminated with CPE. Among these, six were located in hospital rooms with CPE-positive patients, while the remaining three were found in a nurse centre, a waste room, and an ice machine. Genomic analysis found out the presence of bacterial strains such as "Klebsiella variicola, Klebsiella quasipneumoniae, and Escherichia coli." Despite replacing all sinks in the pediatric ward with new ones properly disinfected with hydrogen peroxide, CPE contamination persisted, the team found. Moreover, DNA sequences suggested that the resistance mechanism might have been transferred from one bacterial species to another within the hospital. The team noted, "The discovery of the same bacterial species in sinks in adjoining rooms indicates that pathogen transmission may be possible from one sink to another via the drains and connected plumbing." Also read | Accelerated ageing is heightening cancer risk in younger population: Study What were the preventive measures in place? To mitigate further spread, preventive measures were put in place, including recommending hand disinfection after sink use, introducing disposable cleaning tools, prohibiting mouth-washing with sink water, and enacting disinfection and drying protocols for sink-exposed items. The outbreak was finally contained in October 2017 after months of intensive infection control measures. Also read | Doctors in China successfully transplant pig kidney into brain-dead human patient Associate Professor Sadako Yoshizawa, from Toho University's Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, as quoted by IANS said, "Our experience highlights the importance of focusing on sinks and other water-related areas in hospital wards, as these are critical for CPE transmission and therefore major fronts in the fight against antibiotic resistance." (With inputs from agencies)

Hospital sinks spread drug-resistant superbugs, new study finds

Pig kidney transplanted into man: In a rare medical case, the first person who&nbsp;successfully received a kidney&nbsp;transplant from a genetically modified pig, was performing so well after the groundbreaking surgery that the hospital discharged him on Wednesday (April 3), just weeks after the operation.

The pig kidney transplant and its positive outcome represent the achievement of a major feat in the world of medicine and are likely to start an era of cross-species organ transplantation.

The doctors have earlier carried out two previous organ transplants in which the organs of genetically modified pigs have been given to humans. However, both cases failed. In the two cases, the heart of the genetically modified pigs was transplanted into humans, after which both patients failed to survive.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-the-hail-must-go-to-donor-says-delhi-doctor-involved-in-miracle-hand-transplant-surgery-698655">‘All the praise must go to donor,’ says Delhi doctor involved in ‘miracle’ hand transplant surgery</a>

The two patients had received the hearts of the pig and both failed to survive a few weeks after the transplant. In one patient, the signs indicated that the immune system had rejected the organ.&nbsp;

<h2>Doctors taste success with pig kidney transplant</h2>

The kidney of the pig, which was transplanted into 62-year-old Richard Slayman has been functioning well, removing waste from the blood, producing urine and balancing the fluids of the body, as per the doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital.

“This moment — leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time — is one I wished would come for many years,” Slayman said, in a statement released by the hospital. &nbsp;“Now it’s a reality," he said.

The man claimed to have received “exceptional care” and also extended thanks to his nurses, physicians as well as all other well-wishers.

Watch:&nbsp;Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev undergoes emergency brain surgery; Indian PM wishes speedy recovery

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sadhguru-jaggi-vasudev-undergoes-emergency-brain-surgery-indian-pm-wishes-speedy-recovery-702636/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Today marks a new beginning not just for me, but for them as well,” said Slayman.

Chief medical officer for the United Network for Organ Sharing, Dr David Klassen, who has been managing the organ transplant system of the nation, said that the surgery has increased the prospect of animal-to-human organ transplants, or xenotransplantation.

<h2>Pig kidney transplant patient leaves hospital</h2>

“Though much work remains to be done, I think the potential of this to benefit a large number of patients will be realized, and that was a question mark hovering over the field,” said Dr Klassen.

However, doubts still loom about whether the transplanted organ will be eventually rejected by&nbsp;Slayman's body, said Dr Klassen.&nbsp;

However, if it is ultimately successful, the operation will have to be replicated in various patients and it will be studied in different clinical trials before xenotransplants are made widely available.&nbsp;

He said that if these transplants are scaled up and integrated into the health care system, the doctors will face “daunting” logistical challenges, which include assurance of an adequate supply of organs from genetically engineered animals.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pig kidney transplanted into man: In a rare medical case, the first person who successfully received a kidney transplant from a genetically modified pig, was performing so well after the groundbreaking surgery that the hospital discharged him on Wednesday (April 3), just weeks after the operation.

Pig kidney transplanted into man: In a rare medical case, the first person who successfully received a kidney transplant from a genetically modified pig, was performing so well after the groundbreaking surgery that the hospital discharged him on Wednesday (April 3), just weeks after the operation. The pig kidney transplant and its positive outcome represent the achievement of a major feat in the world of medicine and are likely to start an era of cross-species organ transplantation. The doctors have earlier carried out two previous organ transplants in which the organs of genetically modified pigs have been given to humans. However, both cases failed. In the two cases, the heart of the genetically modified pigs was transplanted into humans, after which both patients failed to survive. Also Read: ‘All the praise must go to donor,’ says Delhi doctor involved in ‘miracle’ hand transplant surgery The two patients had received the hearts of the pig and both failed to survive a few weeks after the transplant. In one patient, the signs indicated that the immune system had rejected the organ. Doctors taste success with pig kidney transplant The kidney of the pig, which was transplanted into 62-year-old Richard Slayman has been functioning well, removing waste from the blood, producing urine and balancing the fluids of the body, as per the doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital. “This moment — leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time — is one I wished would come for many years,” Slayman said, in a statement released by the hospital. “Now it’s a reality," he said. The man claimed to have received “exceptional care” and also extended thanks to his nurses, physicians as well as all other well-wishers. Watch: Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev undergoes emergency brain surgery; Indian PM wishes speedy recovery “Today marks a new beginning not just for me, but for them as well,” said Slayman. Chief medical officer for the United Network for Organ Sharing, Dr David Klassen, who has been managing the organ transplant system of the nation, said that the surgery has increased the prospect of animal-to-human organ transplants, or xenotransplantation. Pig kidney transplant patient leaves hospital “Though much work remains to be done, I think the potential of this to benefit a large number of patients will be realized, and that was a question mark hovering over the field,” said Dr Klassen. However, doubts still loom about whether the transplanted organ will be eventually rejected by Slayman's body, said Dr Klassen. However, if it is ultimately successful, the operation will have to be replicated in various patients and it will be studied in different clinical trials before xenotransplants are made widely available. He said that if these transplants are scaled up and integrated into the health care system, the doctors will face “daunting” logistical challenges, which include assurance of an adequate supply of organs from genetically engineered animals. (With inputs from agencies)

Man with transplanted pig kidney is discharged from hospital in rare medical case

Is the US organ transplant program racist? Well the question arises because the US organ transplant program has announced that they're stopping the use of race based algorithm. Watch in for more details!

US: Hospital algorithm delays transplant for African-Americans

At least two people were killed and another suffered injuries in a suicide blast which took place near the Board Bazaar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Peshawar on Sunday morning (Mar 10), said officials.&nbsp;

Rescue 1122 Spokesperson Bilal Faizi confirmed that two people were killed and another one was injured, as reported by Dawn.

He said that the dead bodies and wounded were shifted to the Khyber Teaching Hospital.

<h2>Explosives planted in motorcycle</h2>

“As per preliminary and unconfirmed reports, explosives were planted in a motorcycle parked in the area,” said the official, adding that the police have cordoned off the blast site and a rescue operation is underway.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/student-given-death-sentence-in-pakistan-for-sharing-blasphemous-messages-698244">Student given death sentence in Pakistan for ‘sharing’ blasphemous messages</a>

As per SSP Operations Kashif Aftab Abbasi, the blast was a ‘suicide’ attack. However, no militant group has till now claimed responsibility for the&nbsp;blast.

Speaking to the media, Peshawar Senior Superintendent of Police (Operation) Kashif Aftab Abbasi said officials of the Counter Terrorism Department as well as other law enforcement agencies reached the site and have been collecting evidence.

“We have found an almost mutilated body and a damaged motorcycle here,” Abbasi said, adding that an investigation is being carried out to understand the nature of the blast.

In the past year, there has been an increase in terror activities in Pakistan, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the ceasefire was ended by the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan with the government in November 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan elects new President, Asif Ali Zardari becomes Pak's 14th President

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-elects-new-president-asif-ali-zardari-becomes-paks-14th-president-698475/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said a day earlier that 10 militants were killed in two different operations carried out by North Waziristan district's security forces.&nbsp;

It stated that Pakistan hoped that the Afghan government would fulfil its obligations and stop terrorists from using Afghan soil.

As per an annual security report, issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan has faced 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023 which led to 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries, marking a record six-year high.

KP and Balochistan have remained&nbsp;the primary centres of violence which account for more than 90 per cent of all fatalities and 84 per cent of attacks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At least two people were killed and another suffered injuries in a suicide blast which took place near the Board Bazaar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Peshawar on Sunday morning (Mar 10), said officials.

At least two people were killed and another suffered injuries in a suicide blast which took place near the Board Bazaar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Peshawar on Sunday morning (Mar 10), said officials. Rescue 1122 Spokesperson Bilal Faizi confirmed that two people were killed and another one was injured, as reported by Dawn. He said that the dead bodies and wounded were shifted to the Khyber Teaching Hospital. Explosives planted in motorcycle “As per preliminary and unconfirmed reports, explosives were planted in a motorcycle parked in the area,” said the official, adding that the police have cordoned off the blast site and a rescue operation is underway. Also Read: Student given death sentence in Pakistan for ‘sharing’ blasphemous messages As per SSP Operations Kashif Aftab Abbasi, the blast was a ‘suicide’ attack. However, no militant group has till now claimed responsibility for the blast. Speaking to the media, Peshawar Senior Superintendent of Police (Operation) Kashif Aftab Abbasi said officials of the Counter Terrorism Department as well as other law enforcement agencies reached the site and have been collecting evidence. “We have found an almost mutilated body and a damaged motorcycle here,” Abbasi said, adding that an investigation is being carried out to understand the nature of the blast. In the past year, there has been an increase in terror activities in Pakistan, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the ceasefire was ended by the banned militant Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan with the government in November 2022. Watch: Pakistan elects new President, Asif Ali Zardari becomes Pak's 14th President The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said a day earlier that 10 militants were killed in two different operations carried out by North Waziristan district's security forces. It stated that Pakistan hoped that the Afghan government would fulfil its obligations and stop terrorists from using Afghan soil. As per an annual security report, issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan has faced 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023 which led to 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries, marking a record six-year high. KP and Balochistan have remained the primary centres of violence which account for more than 90 per cent of all fatalities and 84 per cent of attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Blast rocks Board Bazaar in Pakistan's Peshawar, at least two killed

New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird,&nbsp;welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool.

The opening marks a significant step in the country's efforts to preserve its once-threatened national bird, as reported by AFP news agency.

The surge in kiwi populations, once endangered, prompted the creation of a specialised hospital in Kerikeri, Northland. The initiative reflects New Zealand's commitment to safeguarding its iconic species, with the hospital being the first of its kind in the country.

Constructed by the local conservation group Kiwi Coast, the hospital is strategically located in the heart of Northland, home to nearly 10,000 brown kiwis. This region has played a vital role in the species' resurgence, with its population now exceeding 26,000 across the country.

<h2>Kiwis in New Zealand go from vulnerable to thriving</h2>

Previously classified as "nationally vulnerable," the brown kiwi's status has now been upgraded to "not threatened." This transformation is attributed to rigorous conservation measures, including predator control initiatives and community engagement in safeguarding kiwi habitats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/researchers-decode-years-of-research-to-find-the-optimal-temperature-for-life-heres-all-you-need-to-know-692028">Also read |&nbsp;Researchers decode years of studies to find the optimal temperature for life. Find it out here</a>

With kiwi numbers on the rise, the demand for specialised care for injured or sick birds has escalated. The hospital aims to cater to such cases, ensuring that stressed kiwis receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Also watch |&nbsp;Bird flu detected in Antarctica&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bird-flu-detected-in-antarctica-scientists-create-identical-twin-universe-trending-on-wion-651203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Even before its official opening, the hospital sprung into action to rescue "Splash," a young kiwi that had fallen into a swimming pool filter. The successful treatment and release of "Splash" underscore the hospital's critical role in preserving kiwi populations.

Operated by volunteers, the hospital boasts state-of-the-art veterinary facilities and isolation pens to prevent disease transmission. Kiwi patients undergo comprehensive treatment before being reintroduced into their natural habitats.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird, welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool.

New Zealand, whose people are informally called The Kiwis after the bird, welcomed its first kiwi hospital with the successful treatment of "Splash," a chick that found itself in a swimming pool. The opening marks a significant step in the country's efforts to preserve its once-threatened national bird, as reported by AFP news agency. The surge in kiwi populations, once endangered, prompted the creation of a specialised hospital in Kerikeri, Northland. The initiative reflects New Zealand's commitment to safeguarding its iconic species, with the hospital being the first of its kind in the country. Constructed by the local conservation group Kiwi Coast, the hospital is strategically located in the heart of Northland, home to nearly 10,000 brown kiwis. This region has played a vital role in the species' resurgence, with its population now exceeding 26,000 across the country. Kiwis in New Zealand go from vulnerable to thriving Previously classified as "nationally vulnerable," the brown kiwi's status has now been upgraded to "not threatened." This transformation is attributed to rigorous conservation measures, including predator control initiatives and community engagement in safeguarding kiwi habitats. Also read | Researchers decode years of studies to find the optimal temperature for life. Find it out here With kiwi numbers on the rise, the demand for specialised care for injured or sick birds has escalated. The hospital aims to cater to such cases, ensuring that stressed kiwis receive timely and appropriate medical attention. Also watch | Bird flu detected in Antarctica Even before its official opening, the hospital sprung into action to rescue "Splash," a young kiwi that had fallen into a swimming pool filter. The successful treatment and release of "Splash" underscore the hospital's critical role in preserving kiwi populations. Operated by volunteers, the hospital boasts state-of-the-art veterinary facilities and isolation pens to prevent disease transmission. Kiwi patients undergo comprehensive treatment before being reintroduced into their natural habitats. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand gets its first 'kiwi hospital' to care for injured birds

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”.

Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos should be considered children and that any person can be held liable for destroying them accidentally has now started a new debate in the United States.

The southern US state's hospital took the decision to pause its in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services after the court's ruling as it feared that they could be exposed to criminal prosecution.

The health system of the University of Alabama at Birmingham said that they will continue retrieving eggs from the ovaries of women.&nbsp;

However, it said that the next step they take in the IVF process will be stopped. In the next step, they fertilise the eggs with sperm before they are implanted into the uterus.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-supreme-court-rules-frozen-embryos-are-children-692287">US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children'</a>

"We are saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF," said the leading state medical provider, in a statement.

"But we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the lawsuit and what was the decision made by the court?</h2>

The case has emerged from a wrongful death lawsuit which was filed by three couples after a fertility clinic lost their embryos in 2020.

A person had entered the place where the embryos were kept, handled them and dropped them accidentally. Because of that, the embryos were destroyed.

The couples also took steps to sue the Center for Reproductive Medicine and the Mobile Infirmary Association under the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act of the state. The law includes foetuses but does not specifically include embryos which are created from IVF.

Watch:&nbsp;Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/are-frozen-embryos-children-alabama-supreme-court-gives-first-of-its-kind-decision-692484/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the Alabama Supreme Court in its ruling extended support to the couples and ruled that frozen embryos were considered "children".

The wrongful death law applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location", the court said, in its decision.

Agreeing with the opinion of the majority, Chief Justice Tom Parker wrote: "Even before birth, all human beings have the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory."

The ruling does not restrict or ban IVF and even the couples who filed the case actively sought out the procedure.

(With inputs from agencies)

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”.

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”. Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos should be considered children and that any person can be held liable for destroying them accidentally has now started a new debate in the United States. The southern US state's hospital took the decision to pause its in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services after the court's ruling as it feared that they could be exposed to criminal prosecution. The health system of the University of Alabama at Birmingham said that they will continue retrieving eggs from the ovaries of women. However, it said that the next step they take in the IVF process will be stopped. In the next step, they fertilise the eggs with sperm before they are implanted into the uterus. Also Read: US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children' "We are saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF," said the leading state medical provider, in a statement. "But we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments," it added. What was the lawsuit and what was the decision made by the court? The case has emerged from a wrongful death lawsuit which was filed by three couples after a fertility clinic lost their embryos in 2020. A person had entered the place where the embryos were kept, handled them and dropped them accidentally. Because of that, the embryos were destroyed. The couples also took steps to sue the Center for Reproductive Medicine and the Mobile Infirmary Association under the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act of the state. The law includes foetuses but does not specifically include embryos which are created from IVF. Watch: Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision However, the Alabama Supreme Court in its ruling extended support to the couples and ruled that frozen embryos were considered "children". The wrongful death law applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location", the court said, in its decision. Agreeing with the opinion of the majority, Chief Justice Tom Parker wrote: "Even before birth, all human beings have the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory." The ruling does not restrict or ban IVF and even the couples who filed the case actively sought out the procedure. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children

In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to&nbsp;TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families.&nbsp;

They remained oblivious to each other's presence up until 2014&nbsp;when&nbsp;Amy Khvitia was at her godmother's house near the Black Sea and watching Georgia's Got Talent on TV. During one of the performances, a girl looked exactly like her, so much so that everyone called Amy's mother, asking her why their daughter was dancing using another name.&nbsp;

However, the incident did not lead to anything until seven years later. In 2021,&nbsp;Georgia resident&nbsp;Ano&nbsp;Sartania received a TikTok video showing a woman with blue hair, bearing a shocking resemblance to her.&nbsp;

Ano attempted to trace Amy and after gruelling efforts, she got connected to her long-lost sister on Facebook.

"I have been looking for you for so long!" she messaged. "Me too," replied Ano.&nbsp;

At this stage, both did not know they were sisters but the similarities in face, music, dance, art, food and everything became too impossible to ignore. It was also discovered they had the same genetic disease, a bone disorder called dysplasia.

"Every time I learned something new about Ano, things got stranger," Amy told BBC.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290">Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trending-on-wion-couple-gives-birth-to-momo-twins-566290/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Mysteries unravel&nbsp;</h2>

After they met in person, the twins decided to confront their families and that is when skeletons started tumbling out of the closet. Their families revealed that they had been adopted separately, a few weeks apart in 2002 after the father illegally sold them.&nbsp;

Continuing their investigation, the twins found the details on their official birth certificates, including the date they were born, were forged.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/couple-welcomes-set-of-rare-momo-twins-in-us-566019">Also read |&nbsp;Couple welcomes set of rare 'MoMo' twins in US</a>

As the twins unravelled the truth, they realised that akin to them, tens of thousands of other babies in Georgia had also been taken from hospitals and sold over the last few decades.&nbsp;

According to BBC, buying a child was an expensive business back then. It cost about $1,400 for a girl and $2,100 for a boy which is about a year's salary in the European nation. Some of the children ended up in&nbsp;foreign families in the US, Canada, Cyprus, Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families.

In a plot straight out of a movie, long-lost identical twins Amy and Ano, separated at birth, have been reunited after 20 years, thanks to TikTok. The twins were taken away from their mother soon after birth and sold to separate families. They remained oblivious to each other's presence up until 2014 when Amy Khvitia was at her godmother's house near the Black Sea and watching Georgia's Got Talent on TV. During one of the performances, a girl looked exactly like her, so much so that everyone called Amy's mother, asking her why their daughter was dancing using another name. However, the incident did not lead to anything until seven years later. In 2021, Georgia resident Ano Sartania received a TikTok video showing a woman with blue hair, bearing a shocking resemblance to her. Ano attempted to trace Amy and after gruelling efforts, she got connected to her long-lost sister on Facebook. "I have been looking for you for so long!" she messaged. "Me too," replied Ano. At this stage, both did not know they were sisters but the similarities in face, music, dance, art, food and everything became too impossible to ignore. It was also discovered they had the same genetic disease, a bone disorder called dysplasia. "Every time I learned something new about Ano, things got stranger," Amy told BBC. Watch | Trending on WION: Couple gives birth to 'momo' twins × Mysteries unravel After they met in person, the twins decided to confront their families and that is when skeletons started tumbling out of the closet. Their families revealed that they had been adopted separately, a few weeks apart in 2002 after the father illegally sold them. Continuing their investigation, the twins found the details on their official birth certificates, including the date they were born, were forged. Also read | Couple welcomes set of rare 'MoMo' twins in US As the twins unravelled the truth, they realised that akin to them, tens of thousands of other babies in Georgia had also been taken from hospitals and sold over the last few decades. According to BBC, buying a child was an expensive business back then. It cost about $1,400 for a girl and $2,100 for a boy which is about a year's salary in the European nation. Some of the children ended up in foreign families in the US, Canada, Cyprus, Russia and Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Twins separated and sold at birth, reunited by TikTok video

According to two defence officials, the deputy secretary of defence did not even realize that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had been hospitalized when she started taking on some of his duties on January 2. Until Thursday, three days after the secretary checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center due to complications from an elective surgery, senior leaders, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, the Pentagon's second-in-command, were kept in the dark about Austin's actual location. As previously reported in news, Austin was hospitalised for three days before even the president learned of it.

Lloyd Austin Secret Hospitalisation: White House to review Austin's lack of disclosure

According to two defence officials, the deputy secretary of defence did not even realize that Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin had been hospitalized when she started taking on some of his duties on January 2. Until Thursday, three days after the secretary checked into Walter Reed National Military Medical Center due to complications from an elective surgery, senior leaders, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, the Pentagon's second-in-command, were kept in the dark about Austin's actual location. As previously reported in news, Austin was hospitalized for three days before even the president learned of it.

US's Lloyd Austin in hospital: Pentagon delays key communication to White House by 3 days

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized since Monday for an unspecified medical matter, the Pentagon said late on Friday, without detailing why he was being treated or why it kept his hospital stay secret all week. Austin, who is 70, sits just below President Joe Biden at the top of the chain of command of the U.S. military and his duties require him being available at a moment's notice to respond to any manner of national security crisis.

US: Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin takes responsibility of not disclosing hospitalisation

In what comes as a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie, a 60-year-old woman in the US state of Louisiana has recalled the time she went to hospital with a headache, only to forget memories from the past 30 years.

In what comes as a plot straight out of a Hollywood movie, a 60-year-old woman in the US state of Louisiana has recalled the time she went to hospital with a headache, only to forget memories from the past 30 years. The case is from 2018 when then-56-year-old Kim Denicola developed an intense headache and blurry vision during a bible study group session, according to her family. After Denicola woke up in the hospital emergency room, she had no recollection that she was married and had two children, essentially missing the past 30 years of her existence. “Never in my wildest dreams did I get up and go to bible study and think I’m going to wake up in the hospital and I’m going to be 60 years old," Denicola was quoted as saying by WAFB. The last thing Denicola remembered was her final day of school. She remained oblivious to the fact that computers had been developed and that the country had seen several new presidents. Denicola remembers she answered Ronald Regan when the nurse asked her who the president of the United States was back then. According to doctors, Denicola has been diagnosed with extensive amnesia, officially transient global amnesia or TGA. The National Library of Medicine stated that TGA is a “temporary, anterograde amnesia with an acute onset” that mostly affects individuals middle-aged and older". However, the doctors still cannot pinpoint the exact cause for it despite exhaustive tests and scans. Watch | Gravitas: What happens when we die? Scientists might have an answer × Denicola's life post memory loss Five years later, Denicola says nothing has come back.“They told me, if by now I haven’t gotten it, then I probably won’t.” Denicola penned her life in the journal pages before her memory-loss incident. However, reading them now makes her believe she is looking into someone else’s life and not every memory is a good one. “I’ve even gone through some of them and torn the pages out," she said, adding: “I’ve lost a lot of Christmases, so it’s a big deal. It’s unbelievable to me as it probably is to other people." Also read | Taylor Swift's Eras Tour attendees experience 'post-concert amnesia'; psychologists weigh in Despite the problems that come with memory loss to such an extent, Denicola is looking at the silver lining. The grandmother says she is re-discovering things she loved and insists that she's moving forward. Denicola said her Christmas dream is to have her entire family back together celebrating under one roof. (With inputs from agencies)

US grandma goes to hospital, wakes up with memory of past 30 years wiped out

A recently identified coronavirus variant named JN.1 has raised alarm&nbsp;among healthcare professionals, experts, authorities, and the general public. This COVID19 subvariant, JN.1, is a descendant of BA.2.86.&nbsp;

On 18 December, recent data from the Union Health Ministry disclosed that India recorded 260 fresh cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus), causing an increase in active cases to 1,828. The death toll has now reached 5,33,317.

The symptoms of the JN.1 novel Covid variant encompass a runny nose, a sore throat, fever, and headaches. One may encounter mild upper respiratory symptoms that generally show improvement within a span of four to five days.

<h2>10 updates about the JN.1 COVID variant:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>India records 260 new cases, total active at 1,828</li>
	<li>'Report symptoms, increase testing': Govt advisory amid Covid spike, new variant</li>
	<li>The Karnataka government has dismissed the current necessity for border movement restrictions, affirming that it has implemented comprehensive precautionary measures.</li>
	<li>The Union health ministry has called upon states to remain watchful due to the surge in COVID cases in Kerala. In response to the significant spike in daily cases, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting with state health ministers on Wednesday. Kerala has witnessed a substantial rise in daily cases, nearly tripling within a week, along with 10 reported deaths from December 1 to 17.</li>
	<li>The World Health Organization issues a warning that "Covid is still undergoing changes and evolution" as cases of the JN.1 subvariant continue to rise.</li>
	<li>The central government issues a Covid advisory to states amid the increasing prevalence of the Omicron subvariant.</li>
	<li>In Karnataka, the requirement for wearing masks is now mandatory for individuals aged 60 and above.</li>
	<li>The central government has guided state governments, urging them to ensure appropriate health arrangements.</li>
	<li>The JN.1 variant is highly adept at evading the immune system and spreads rapidly. This allows it to infect individuals with prior COVID-19 infections as well as those who have been vaccinated.</li>
	<li>The Covid variant possesses a notable quantity of distinct mutations, particularly in the spike protein, which could potentially enhance infectivity and evade the immune response.</li>
</ul>

 
(With inputs from agencies)

A recently identified coronavirus variant named JN.1 has raised alarm among healthcare professionals, experts, authorities, and the general public. This COVID19 subvariant, JN.

A recently identified coronavirus variant named JN.1 has raised alarm among healthcare professionals, experts, authorities, and the general public. This COVID19 subvariant, JN.1, is a descendant of BA.2.86. On 18 December, recent data from the Union Health Ministry disclosed that India recorded 260 fresh cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus), causing an increase in active cases to 1,828. The death toll has now reached 5,33,317. The symptoms of the JN.1 novel Covid variant encompass a runny nose, a sore throat, fever, and headaches. One may encounter mild upper respiratory symptoms that generally show improvement within a span of four to five days. 10 updates about the JN.1 COVID variant: India records 260 new cases, total active at 1,828 'Report symptoms, increase testing': Govt advisory amid Covid spike, new variant The Karnataka government has dismissed the current necessity for border movement restrictions, affirming that it has implemented comprehensive precautionary measures. The Union health ministry has called upon states to remain watchful due to the surge in COVID cases in Kerala. In response to the significant spike in daily cases, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has scheduled a meeting with state health ministers on Wednesday. Kerala has witnessed a substantial rise in daily cases, nearly tripling within a week, along with 10 reported deaths from December 1 to 17. The World Health Organization issues a warning that "Covid is still undergoing changes and evolution" as cases of the JN.1 subvariant continue to rise. The central government issues a Covid advisory to states amid the increasing prevalence of the Omicron subvariant. In Karnataka, the requirement for wearing masks is now mandatory for individuals aged 60 and above. The central government has guided state governments, urging them to ensure appropriate health arrangements. The JN.1 variant is highly adept at evading the immune system and spreads rapidly. This allows it to infect individuals with prior COVID-19 infections as well as those who have been vaccinated. The Covid variant possesses a notable quantity of distinct mutations, particularly in the spike protein, which could potentially enhance infectivity and evade the immune response. (With inputs from agencies)

New Covid variant JN.1 detected in India. 10 points you need to know

At least three elderly people lost their lives in a&nbsp;massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday. 
 
A fourth dead body was discovered in the San Giovanni Evangelista hospital's mortuary, which was reported by many media organisations as the fourth casualty, however, Italy's Ansa news agency said that the victim was said to have died before 11 pm (2200 GMT) on Friday night, which was some time before the hospital caught fire. 
 
The turntable ladders were used by the fire brigade for evacuating nearly 200 people from the hospital, which included many children and a pregnant woman.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-withdraws-from-chinas-belt-and-road-project-667010">Italy withdraws from China's Belt and Road project</a>

In the video released by the department, fire crews were seen trying to reach the hospital's upper floors through ladders as smoke billowed out.

<h2>Patients evacuated, transferred to hospitals</h2>

In a statement, the Tivoli mayor’s office said that the patients in the hospital's intensive care were immediately transferred to other hospitals via ambulance. While the&nbsp;less-critical patients were shifted to the nearby municipal gymnasium and their transfer to other facilities was pending. 
 
As per the media reports, those people who were evacuated from the hospital were taken to different parts of Rome so as to be provided treatment.

Watch:&nbsp;Italy: World's largest Christmas tree lights up on a hill

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-worlds-largest-christmas-tree-lights-up-on-a-hill-667685/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The media reports said that two men and two women, who were killed in the blaze, were aged between 76 and 86. 
 
The fire brigade stated that the blaze had been put under control and an investigation had been launched to establish its cause. 
 
In the pictures, the building's black charred side was seen and the fire blaze appeared to have spread across multiple floors. 
 
Tivoli, which is 20 miles away from Rome and is located towards its northeast, is a famous tourist destination. The place is famous for the archaeological sites of Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, both of which have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least three elderly people lost their lives in a massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday.

At least three elderly people lost their lives in a massive blaze that broke out in a hospital overnight in the Italian town of Tivoli, which is near Rome, as reported by Italian media on Saturday. A fourth dead body was discovered in the San Giovanni Evangelista hospital's mortuary, which was reported by many media organisations as the fourth casualty, however, Italy's Ansa news agency said that the victim was said to have died before 11 pm (2200 GMT) on Friday night, which was some time before the hospital caught fire. The turntable ladders were used by the fire brigade for evacuating nearly 200 people from the hospital, which included many children and a pregnant woman. Also read: Italy withdraws from China's Belt and Road project In the video released by the department, fire crews were seen trying to reach the hospital's upper floors through ladders as smoke billowed out. Patients evacuated, transferred to hospitals In a statement, the Tivoli mayor’s office said that the patients in the hospital's intensive care were immediately transferred to other hospitals via ambulance. While the less-critical patients were shifted to the nearby municipal gymnasium and their transfer to other facilities was pending. As per the media reports, those people who were evacuated from the hospital were taken to different parts of Rome so as to be provided treatment. Watch: Italy: World's largest Christmas tree lights up on a hill The media reports said that two men and two women, who were killed in the blaze, were aged between 76 and 86. The fire brigade stated that the blaze had been put under control and an investigation had been launched to establish its cause. In the pictures, the building's black charred side was seen and the fire blaze appeared to have spread across multiple floors. Tivoli, which is 20 miles away from Rome and is located towards its northeast, is a famous tourist destination. The place is famous for the archaeological sites of Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, both of which have been recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy: At least three killed, several evacuated after fire breaks out in hospital

India recently launched the world's first portable disaster hospital that can be deployed in mass casualty incidents to quickly and efficiently treat as many people as possible. The hospital consists of 72 aid cubes.&nbsp;

The portable disaster hospital, named AarogYa Matri Cube, is developed jointly by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Defence and the National Security Council.&nbsp;

The hospital has been designed indigenously under Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri), which is&nbsp;system tailored to treat up to 200 casualties in areas affected by natural calamities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-floods-why-drones-were-missing-in-action-for-so-long-667656">Chennai floods: Why drones were missing in action for so long?</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by ANI, Amit Chaudhary, the managing director of Packers Products said, "We have designed this hospital that can be assembled and installed within one hour of reaching the emergency site."&nbsp;

"It can be used in any emergency area or disaster-hit area, whether it is an earthquake, flood, forest fire or even a war. It can treat bullet wounds and can treat up to 200 patients at any given point in time," he added.&nbsp;

Retired Air Vice Marshal Tanmoy Roy, who is the head of the BHISHM force, said that the surgical station can be rapidly established within 15 minutes when authorities are responding to any calamity.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-shifts-focus-from-ethanol-to-sugar-production-amid-supply-concerns-667476">India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns</a>&nbsp;

He said, "When this cube reaches the point where there is a calamity and people are injured, then this has all the facilities to treat them."&nbsp;

"All the elements are present and they can be set up within 15 minutes of arrival, which, to my knowledge, no other agency has been able to do, we train our people regularly so that they set up this surgical station within 15 minutes of their arrival," he added.&nbsp;

The unique hospital is part of the "Aarogya Maitri Project," which is an initiative taken by the Narendra Modi government.&nbsp;

<h2>What does it include?&nbsp;</h2>

The hospital can perform 20 surgeries and carry out 72 tests. It is prepared to handle bullet, burn, head, spinal and chest injuries, fractures, and major bleeding.&nbsp;

The facility has an operation theatre, a mini ICU, ventilators, blood test equipment, an X-ray machine, a cooking station, food, water, shelter, and a power generator.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

India recently launched the world's first portable disaster hospital that can be deployed in mass casualty incidents to quickly and efficiently treat as many people as possible.

India recently launched the world's first portable disaster hospital that can be deployed in mass casualty incidents to quickly and efficiently treat as many people as possible. The hospital consists of 72 aid cubes. The portable disaster hospital, named AarogYa Matri Cube, is developed jointly by the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Defence and the National Security Council. The hospital has been designed indigenously under Project BHISHM (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri), which is system tailored to treat up to 200 casualties in areas affected by natural calamities. Also read: Chennai floods: Why drones were missing in action for so long? As quoted by ANI, Amit Chaudhary, the managing director of Packers Products said, "We have designed this hospital that can be assembled and installed within one hour of reaching the emergency site." "It can be used in any emergency area or disaster-hit area, whether it is an earthquake, flood, forest fire or even a war. It can treat bullet wounds and can treat up to 200 patients at any given point in time," he added. Retired Air Vice Marshal Tanmoy Roy, who is the head of the BHISHM force, said that the surgical station can be rapidly established within 15 minutes when authorities are responding to any calamity. Also read: India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns He said, "When this cube reaches the point where there is a calamity and people are injured, then this has all the facilities to treat them." "All the elements are present and they can be set up within 15 minutes of arrival, which, to my knowledge, no other agency has been able to do, we train our people regularly so that they set up this surgical station within 15 minutes of their arrival," he added. The unique hospital is part of the "Aarogya Maitri Project," which is an initiative taken by the Narendra Modi government. What does it include? The hospital can perform 20 surgeries and carry out 72 tests. It is prepared to handle bullet, burn, head, spinal and chest injuries, fractures, and major bleeding. The facility has an operation theatre, a mini ICU, ventilators, blood test equipment, an X-ray machine, a cooking station, food, water, shelter, and a power generator. (With inputs from agencies)

AarogYa Matri Cube: World's first portable disaster hospital unveiled in India

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above. Social media is abuzz with images of children who are admitted to hospitals for receiving treatment. However, other bizarre scenes are also seen where these kids are battling these respiratory illnesses while also attending to their school homework from these medical facilities.&nbsp;

If media reports are to be believed, amid an outbreak of pneumonia affecting children in the northern part of China, the hospitals in the region have established special "homework zones" for young patients dealing with respiratory illnesses.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-strips-conservative-us-cardinal-of-vatican-privileges-vatican-official-says-664247">Pope strips conservative US cardinal of Vatican privileges, Vatican official says</a>

This comes as China is facing a surge in cases which is attributed to a combination of known pathogens. It is straining hospitals in Beijing and nearby cities. Moreover, thousands of patients are seeking outpatient and emergency care daily.

<h2>Debate around homework from hospitals&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Images and videos circulating on social media depict children engaged in homework while receiving intravenous drips in hospitals in Jiangsu, Anhui, and central Hubei provinces.

The scenes have sparked a debate online. Netizens can't keep quiet as it is unearthing memories of how China dealt with the Covid-19 crisis&nbsp;by imposing stringent norms and curbing freedom of people on social media outlets where they were speaking against the authorities.&nbsp;

<h2>Split reactions from parents&nbsp;</h2>

The reactions over this have been split. Now, as these images and videos of children doing homework from hospital beds are gaining traction, some of the parents are expressing mixed feelings about the practice.&nbsp;Reports suggested that the hospitals began popularising separate study zones for sick children a few years ago. Since then, it has become a practice of sorts.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/england-and-wales-living-in-dark-ages-poll-finds-1-in-7-hr-says-men-better-suited-to-top-jobs-664244">England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HR says men better suited to top jobs</a>

While some parents initially resisted the idea, the reported positive study environment at hospitals has prompted them to encourage their children to do homework during medical treatment. One parent mentioned that their child had to complete homework in the hospital to avoid additional tasks upon returning to school after recovery.

“My kid had to do his homework this way because if he did not finish it, he would have to do a lot more when he returns to school after he recovers,” a father reportedly said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop28-president-optimistic-of-stopping-global-warming-664241">COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop28-president-optimistic-of-stopping-global-warming-664241/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Criticism on&nbsp;social media&nbsp;</h2>

This approach in hospitals has faced criticism on social media, with some users expressing concern that sick children should be resting instead of studying. Despite the debate, the practice of children doing homework in hospitals is deemed "common in China," with some hospitals even having dedicated areas for students to study while undergoing treatment, according to social media users.

"We live in a country of hell mode," a user reportedly wrote on X.&nbsp;

Health authorities have linked the rising cases to viruses like influenza, rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

(With inputs from agencies)

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above.

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above. Social media is abuzz with images of children who are admitted to hospitals for receiving treatment. However, other bizarre scenes are also seen where these kids are battling these respiratory illnesses while also attending to their school homework from these medical facilities. If media reports are to be believed, amid an outbreak of pneumonia affecting children in the northern part of China, the hospitals in the region have established special "homework zones" for young patients dealing with respiratory illnesses. Also Read | Pope strips conservative US cardinal of Vatican privileges, Vatican official says This comes as China is facing a surge in cases which is attributed to a combination of known pathogens. It is straining hospitals in Beijing and nearby cities. Moreover, thousands of patients are seeking outpatient and emergency care daily. Debate around homework from hospitals Images and videos circulating on social media depict children engaged in homework while receiving intravenous drips in hospitals in Jiangsu, Anhui, and central Hubei provinces. The scenes have sparked a debate online. Netizens can't keep quiet as it is unearthing memories of how China dealt with the Covid-19 crisis by imposing stringent norms and curbing freedom of people on social media outlets where they were speaking against the authorities. Split reactions from parents The reactions over this have been split. Now, as these images and videos of children doing homework from hospital beds are gaining traction, some of the parents are expressing mixed feelings about the practice. Reports suggested that the hospitals began popularising separate study zones for sick children a few years ago. Since then, it has become a practice of sorts. Also Read | England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HR says men better suited to top jobs While some parents initially resisted the idea, the reported positive study environment at hospitals has prompted them to encourage their children to do homework during medical treatment. One parent mentioned that their child had to complete homework in the hospital to avoid additional tasks upon returning to school after recovery. “My kid had to do his homework this way because if he did not finish it, he would have to do a lot more when he returns to school after he recovers,” a father reportedly said. Watch | COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming × Criticism on social media This approach in hospitals has faced criticism on social media, with some users expressing concern that sick children should be resting instead of studying. Despite the debate, the practice of children doing homework in hospitals is deemed "common in China," with some hospitals even having dedicated areas for students to study while undergoing treatment, according to social media users. "We live in a country of hell mode," a user reportedly wrote on X. Health authorities have linked the rising cases to viruses like influenza, rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae. (With inputs from agencies)

'Hell mode?': Chinese hospitals have 'homework zones' for kids battling pneumonia, netizens react

In the past year, nearly 8,000 people&nbsp;suffered harm, with 112 losing their lives in the UK due to prolonged waits for ambulance services or surgeries. The data from NHS England highlights a drastic increase in patient deaths directly linked to delay in care which has been surging more than fivefold in the last three years.

The rising figures show the&nbsp;severe human impact caused by the ongoing NHS staffing and logistics crisis, prompting concerns about patient safety.

Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association, stressed on the alarming nature of the data, describing it as a disaster unfolding across the NHS, while speaking to the Guardian.&nbsp;

“These data are alarming and show quite clearly the human impact the crisis in the NHS is having on individual patients,” said Power.

“We have been watching a disaster unfolding across the NHS and have repeatedly warned about the threat to patient safety because of it,” she added.&nbsp;

As a response to the financial strain, trusts are reducing planned surgeries, creating a ripple effect on patient care.

The government's refusal to provide a $1.26 billion bailout to cover staff strike costs has intensified the challenges, translating into prolonged waiting times and potential harm for patients.

Adult mental health care tops the list with 471 patients experiencing harm due to delays, followed by childbirth care, eye problems, trauma, and general surgery.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/paul-lynch-wins-booker-prize-2023-for-dystopian-irish-novel-prophet-song-663169">Also read |&nbsp;Paul Lynch wins Booker Prize 2023 for his dystopian novel Prophet Song</a>

<h2>Detailed cases expose critical delays</h2>

The Guardian received anonymous details of 30 deaths last year, revealing critical delays in emergency response. Instances include a cardiac arrest patient waiting 18 minutes for an ambulance call response and dying later.

Another patient who developed hepatitis B due to lapses in follow-up care also died.

Ambulance services, overwhelmed by the volume of calls, resort to "stacking" 999 calls, leaving individuals on hold.

A&amp;E doctors estimate that up to 500 people weekly may be succumbing to deaths attributed to delays in ambulance response, A&amp;E care, or specialised treatment.

Also watch |&nbsp;Rishi Sunak announces $36.76 BN of private-sector investments

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rishi-sunak-announces-3676-bn-of-private-sector-investments-663234/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

NHS England's figures are likely an underestimate of the problem, said the Guardian report.&nbsp;

Patients facing prolonged delays for care may feel forgotten, emphasising the significant impact delays have on people's lives. Patient safety advocates express shock at the reported incidents of harm and death.

Amid the worsening situation, the Liberal Democrats reveal analysis showing heart attack and stroke patients waiting over 90 minutes for ambulances, far exceeding the recommended 18 minutes.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In the past year, nearly 8,000 people suffered harm, with 112 losing their lives in the UK due to prolonged waits for ambulance services or surgeries. The data from NHS England highlights a drastic increase in patient deaths directly linked to delay in care which has been surging more than fivefold in the last three years.

In the past year, nearly 8,000 people suffered harm, with 112 losing their lives in the UK due to prolonged waits for ambulance services or surgeries. The data from NHS England highlights a drastic increase in patient deaths directly linked to delay in care which has been surging more than fivefold in the last three years. The rising figures show the severe human impact caused by the ongoing NHS staffing and logistics crisis, prompting concerns about patient safety. Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association, stressed on the alarming nature of the data, describing it as a disaster unfolding across the NHS, while speaking to the Guardian. “These data are alarming and show quite clearly the human impact the crisis in the NHS is having on individual patients,” said Power. “We have been watching a disaster unfolding across the NHS and have repeatedly warned about the threat to patient safety because of it,” she added. As a response to the financial strain, trusts are reducing planned surgeries, creating a ripple effect on patient care. The government's refusal to provide a $1.26 billion bailout to cover staff strike costs has intensified the challenges, translating into prolonged waiting times and potential harm for patients. Adult mental health care tops the list with 471 patients experiencing harm due to delays, followed by childbirth care, eye problems, trauma, and general surgery. Also read | Paul Lynch wins Booker Prize 2023 for his dystopian novel Prophet Song Detailed cases expose critical delays The Guardian received anonymous details of 30 deaths last year, revealing critical delays in emergency response. Instances include a cardiac arrest patient waiting 18 minutes for an ambulance call response and dying later. Another patient who developed hepatitis B due to lapses in follow-up care also died. Ambulance services, overwhelmed by the volume of calls, resort to "stacking" 999 calls, leaving individuals on hold. A&E doctors estimate that up to 500 people weekly may be succumbing to deaths attributed to delays in ambulance response, A&E care, or specialised treatment. Also watch | Rishi Sunak announces $36.76 BN of private-sector investments NHS England's figures are likely an underestimate of the problem, said the Guardian report. Patients facing prolonged delays for care may feel forgotten, emphasising the significant impact delays have on people's lives. Patient safety advocates express shock at the reported incidents of harm and death. Amid the worsening situation, the Liberal Democrats reveal analysis showing heart attack and stroke patients waiting over 90 minutes for ambulances, far exceeding the recommended 18 minutes. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: NHS care delays harmed 8,000, led to 112 deaths in 2022, data shows

Hospitals in China have been overwhelmed by a mysterious pneumonia outbreak. The infection has reached several cities including Beijing. China is brushing aside the outbreak- calling it a seasonal surge is pneumonia. World Health Organization hints something is amiss.

Gravitas: Mysterious pneumonia outbreak in China: Is the next killer pandemic on its way?

One person was killed after a shooter opened fire inside a psychiatric hospital located in the northeastern state of New Hampshire in the United States&nbsp;on Friday (Nov 17), stated authorities while further confirming that the suspect was fatally shot by the police. 
 
State police Colonel Mark Hall said that the suspect entered the New Hampshire Hospital in Concord and killed one person inside the lobby. Hall further confirmed that all patients at the hospital were safe. 
 
"A state trooper assigned to the hospital and in close proximity immediately engaged, shot and killed the suspect," he said in a news conference while stating that the shootout remained confined to the hospital lobby. The shooter or the victim was not identified by Hall.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apec-summit-biden-urges-positive-use-of-ai-during-address-in-final-session-659914">APEC summit: Biden urges positive use of AI during address in final session</a>

"There is no threat to the public, and there was no threat to the patients or staff at the hospital," he stated. After the shootout took place, a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of the hospital was investigated by the authorities. 
 
A tactical robot was used by law enforcement officials to inspect a U-Haul, as reported by CNN. 
 
New Hampshire Hospital is located in the state capital Concord and has a 185-bed inpatient facility where patients having acute mental illness are treated.

<h2>Hospital to remain temporarily closed to visitors</h2>

On Friday (Nov 17), the head of New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services stated that she was “shocked and saddened” by the incident of shooting. 
 
“Our hearts go out to the family of the victim as well as our colleagues who have been impacted,” stated Commissioner Lori Weaver, at a press conference.

Watch:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden says, 'US committed to high standards in trade and partnerships'&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-joe-biden-says-us-committed-to-high-standards-in-trade-and-partnerships-wion-659659/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Weaver stated that the hospital will remain temporarily closed to visitors, however, support will be extended to patients and staff “as we work through this tragedy together.” 
 
“This is a difficult and unimaginable day for our employees and for our community,” the commissioner stated. 
 
In a statement, Governor Chris Sununu said on X that the state “immediately mobilised, and first responders and law enforcement are on the scene.” 
 
“This afternoon, there was an incident at New Hampshire Hospital, which has been contained. While the scene remains active as the campus is cleared, the suspect is deceased. We will provide as many details as possible as this situation unfolds,” stated Sununu.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

One person was killed after a shooter opened fire inside a psychiatric hospital located in the northeastern state of New Hampshire in the United States on Friday (Nov 17), stated authorities while further confirming that the suspect was fatally shot by the police.

One person was killed after a shooter opened fire inside a psychiatric hospital located in the northeastern state of New Hampshire in the United States on Friday (Nov 17), stated authorities while further confirming that the suspect was fatally shot by the police. State police Colonel Mark Hall said that the suspect entered the New Hampshire Hospital in Concord and killed one person inside the lobby. Hall further confirmed that all patients at the hospital were safe. "A state trooper assigned to the hospital and in close proximity immediately engaged, shot and killed the suspect," he said in a news conference while stating that the shootout remained confined to the hospital lobby. The shooter or the victim was not identified by Hall. Also read: APEC summit: Biden urges positive use of AI during address in final session "There is no threat to the public, and there was no threat to the patients or staff at the hospital," he stated. After the shootout took place, a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of the hospital was investigated by the authorities. A tactical robot was used by law enforcement officials to inspect a U-Haul, as reported by CNN. New Hampshire Hospital is located in the state capital Concord and has a 185-bed inpatient facility where patients having acute mental illness are treated. Hospital to remain temporarily closed to visitors On Friday (Nov 17), the head of New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services stated that she was “shocked and saddened” by the incident of shooting. “Our hearts go out to the family of the victim as well as our colleagues who have been impacted,” stated Commissioner Lori Weaver, at a press conference. Watch: US President Joe Biden says, 'US committed to high standards in trade and partnerships' Weaver stated that the hospital will remain temporarily closed to visitors, however, support will be extended to patients and staff “as we work through this tragedy together.” “This is a difficult and unimaginable day for our employees and for our community,” the commissioner stated. In a statement, Governor Chris Sununu said on X that the state “immediately mobilised, and first responders and law enforcement are on the scene.” “This afternoon, there was an incident at New Hampshire Hospital, which has been contained. While the scene remains active as the campus is cleared, the suspect is deceased. We will provide as many details as possible as this situation unfolds,” stated Sununu. (With inputs from agencies)

One killed in New Hampshire psychiatric hospital shooting, suspect shot: Police

Joe Biden's efforts to bring down tensions in the escalating war between Israel and Hamas faced massive setbacks even before he departed for West Asia. Jordan called off the US president's planned Summit with Arab leaders after a deadly explosion at Gaza Hospital killed hundreds.

Israel-Palestine War: Tear gas fired at protesters near US embassy in Lebanon

At least 300 people were killed after a Gaza Hospital came under attack. Many are feared to be trapped under the rubble. Hamas has called this attack a genocide even as Israel denies any role behind the strike. Following the deadly air strike Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has declared 3 days of mourning for the victims.

Israel-Palestine war: IDF claims rocket that hit Gaza hospital was fired by terrorists

At least 300 people were killed after a Gaza Hospital came under attack. Many are feared to be trapped under the rubble. Hamas has called this attack a genocide even as Israel denies any role behind the strike. Following the deadly air strike Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has declared 3 days of mourning for the victims. To know more watch this interview with a senior fellow at the National Security Institute, Lester Munson.

Israel-Palestine War | Gaza Hospital strike: Palestinian President declares 3 days of mourning

Israel-Palestine War | Gaza Hospital strike: Hundreds killed, many still under rubble

Israel-Palestine war: International condemnation after Gaza hospital strike

hospital

Hospital, News on Hospital, stories on Hospital, articles on Hospital, Hospital stories at Wion, Hospital news, Hospital latest news