Researchers in Australia today claimed that they have traced and understood the immune responses to coronavirus in a person, based on patient zero in their country.

The health minister of the country claimed that it's an imperative step in curating a vaccine.

As of now, the virus has infected over 168,000 people globally with more than 6,000 deaths reported.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/coronavirus-outbreak-how-to-keep-your-gadgets-clean-and-sanitised-286952" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak: How to keep your gadgets clean and sanitised</a>

However, most of the infected patients display mild symptoms, out of which only 20 per cent reach the critical stage.&nbsp;

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the mortality rate of the virus is 3.4 per cent

Researchers at Australia's Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity examined blood results from an anonymous woman in her 40s and found that the immune systems of people respond to the virus as it would to the flu. 
 
This can shed light on how many patients recover from the infection while others end up developing serious respiratory issues.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-pack-florida-beach-despite-coronavirus-outbreak-in-us-286935" hreflang="en">Hundreds pack Florida beach despite coronavirus outbreak in US</a> 
 
“People can use our methods to understand the immune responses in larger COVID-19 cohorts, and also understand what’s lacking in those who have fatal outcomes,” said Katherine Kedzierska, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Melbourne, which took part in the research.&nbsp;

Based on their findings and the response of the immune system to the virus, the researchers were able to correctly predict the timeframe by which the patient would recover.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-begins-first-human-trial-of-coronavirus-vaccine-286865/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The patient in question is an Australian citizen who was evacuated out of Wuhan, where the virus began in China. 
 
Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt called this feat ''world-leading'', marking a major development in the research process to understanding and containing the disease.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-launches-criminal-probe-into-a-coronavirus-patient-who-flew-from-us-while-showing-symptoms-286969" hreflang="en">China launches criminal probe into a coronavirus patient who flew from US while showing symptoms</a> 
 
“It’s about fast-tracking a vaccine by identifying which candidates are most likely to be successful,” Hunt said. “It’s also about fast-tracking potential therapies and treatments for patients who already have coronavirus”, he added.

Globally, all drugmakers are attempting to conjure a vaccine against the contagion which is gaining traction in the world quickly.

However, there are multiple roadblocks in finding a viable vaccine, for the cost could be as high as $800 million. Even then, the vaccine will need a full year before it is approved, which leaves a huge window open for the virus to continue spreading.

Researchers in Australia today claimed that they have traced and understood the immune responses to coronavirus in a person, based on patient zero in their country.

Researchers in Australia today claimed that they have traced and understood the immune responses to coronavirus in a person, based on patient zero in their country. The health minister of the country claimed that it's an imperative step in curating a vaccine. As of now, the virus has infected over 168,000 people globally with more than 6,000 deaths reported. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: How to keep your gadgets clean and sanitised However, most of the infected patients display mild symptoms, out of which only 20 per cent reach the critical stage. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the mortality rate of the virus is 3.4 per cent Researchers at Australia's Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity examined blood results from an anonymous woman in her 40s and found that the immune systems of people respond to the virus as it would to the flu. This can shed light on how many patients recover from the infection while others end up developing serious respiratory issues. Also read: Hundreds pack Florida beach despite coronavirus outbreak in US “People can use our methods to understand the immune responses in larger COVID-19 cohorts, and also understand what’s lacking in those who have fatal outcomes,” said Katherine Kedzierska, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Melbourne, which took part in the research. Based on their findings and the response of the immune system to the virus, the researchers were able to correctly predict the timeframe by which the patient would recover. The patient in question is an Australian citizen who was evacuated out of Wuhan, where the virus began in China. Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt called this feat ''world-leading'', marking a major development in the research process to understanding and containing the disease. Also read: China launches criminal probe into a coronavirus patient who flew from US while showing symptoms “It’s about fast-tracking a vaccine by identifying which candidates are most likely to be successful,” Hunt said. “It’s also about fast-tracking potential therapies and treatments for patients who already have coronavirus”, he added. Globally, all drugmakers are attempting to conjure a vaccine against the contagion which is gaining traction in the world quickly. However, there are multiple roadblocks in finding a viable vaccine, for the cost could be as high as $800 million. Even then, the vaccine will need a full year before it is approved, which leaves a huge window open for the virus to continue spreading.

Can doctors predict how long it would take for a patient to recover from COVID-19?

Death toll from coronavirus surged to 2,010 across the world. 132 cases of deaths reported in Hubei province in last 24hrs. More than 1,000 people have now been infected with the virus outside the mainland China.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Hong Kong records second fatality

As the coronavirus continues to unleash its wrath over the world with more than 1700 dead and 71,000 infected, China is trying something unconventional to counter the spread.

As reported by CNN, the country intends to ''deep clean'' infected cash, which could indeed be a valid carrier of the virus. Additionally, most of the infected cash will be destroyed.

The People's Bank of China announced the measure on Saturday, with the aim to contain the virus, which recently received an official name - Covid-19, pegged by the WHO.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-99-more-coronavirus-cases-confirmed-in-diamond-princess-japanese-cruise-281124">99 more confirmed with coronavirus on Japanese cruise; total cases jump to 454</a>

Many people believed that receiving packages hailing from China could spread the virus further. But as per the directions of the WHO, the virus only survives for a few hours on surfaces.

The health bodies in deeply infected regions are cleaning elevator buttons, door handles, and other surfaces that may be more often touched by people.

There is where cash currency comes into play, for it is exchanged among people multiple times a day.

As per the guidelines, all banks have to disinfect their cash with ultraviolet light combined with high temperatures. This is followed by storing the cash for 14 days before it is released to the customers, as announced by a press release by the central Chinese government.

<img alt="ppppp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9da0d954-9669-461b-bdeb-5bbc95c2835e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%281%29_1.jpg" />

The government has identified high-risk infection areas, especially hospitals, schools, and markets (with focus on wet markets). Currency emanating from any of these places will be treated, and then returned to the Chinese Central Bank before being put into circulation again.

However, in the Guangzhou branch of the Central Bank, these notes may be completely destroyed, a local tabloid Global Times reported.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-records-slowest-economy-in-over-five-years-as-coronavirus-halts-trade-with-its-biggest-partner-china-281107">Japan records slowest economy in over five years as coronavirus halts trade with its biggest partner, China</a>

This does not imply that the cash will not be recirculated. According to the statement, the bank intends to issue fresh currency to make up for the recall.

Additionally, in Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, over 4 billion yuan worth of new bank notes are being circulated.

Another route to limit the infection from spreading includes suspending cash transactions, especially in the hardest-hit provinces.

As the coronavirus continues to unleash its wrath over the world with more than 1700 dead and 71,000 infected, China is trying something unconventional to counter the spread.

As the coronavirus continues to unleash its wrath over the world with more than 1700 dead and 71,000 infected, China is trying something unconventional to counter the spread. As reported by CNN, the country intends to ''deep clean'' infected cash, which could indeed be a valid carrier of the virus. Additionally, most of the infected cash will be destroyed. The People's Bank of China announced the measure on Saturday, with the aim to contain the virus, which recently received an official name - Covid-19, pegged by the WHO. Also read: 99 more confirmed with coronavirus on Japanese cruise; total cases jump to 454 Many people believed that receiving packages hailing from China could spread the virus further. But as per the directions of the WHO, the virus only survives for a few hours on surfaces. The health bodies in deeply infected regions are cleaning elevator buttons, door handles, and other surfaces that may be more often touched by people. There is where cash currency comes into play, for it is exchanged among people multiple times a day. As per the guidelines, all banks have to disinfect their cash with ultraviolet light combined with high temperatures. This is followed by storing the cash for 14 days before it is released to the customers, as announced by a press release by the central Chinese government. The government has identified high-risk infection areas, especially hospitals, schools, and markets (with focus on wet markets). Currency emanating from any of these places will be treated, and then returned to the Chinese Central Bank before being put into circulation again. However, in the Guangzhou branch of the Central Bank, these notes may be completely destroyed, a local tabloid Global Times reported. Also read: Japan records slowest economy in over five years as coronavirus halts trade with its biggest partner, China This does not imply that the cash will not be recirculated. According to the statement, the bank intends to issue fresh currency to make up for the recall. Additionally, in Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, over 4 billion yuan worth of new bank notes are being circulated. Another route to limit the infection from spreading includes suspending cash transactions, especially in the hardest-hit provinces.

China intends to destroy 'infected currency' in a bid to contain coronavirus

A new report on the novel coronavirus outbreak has revealed some worrying information. A single patient in a hospital in Wuhan reportedly infected 10 medical workers and four other patients.

Coronavirus Outbreak: Super Spreaders, a new nightmare for doctors

US FDA recalls MDH sambhar powder: What is Salmonella contamination, ways to prevent it

Concerns related to the spread of Nipah in Kerala were allayed further, with Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja on Friday saying samples of one more person suspected to be infected with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nipah-karnataka-sounds-alert-after-man-infected-with-virus-in-kerala-224932">potentially deadly virus</a> have tested negative.

One more person currently being treated at the isolation ward of the Medical College Hospital in Kochi has tested negative, the minister told reporters in New Delhi.

The government had Thursday announced that samples of six people, including three nursing staff, who had initially attended on a college student infected with Nipah virus, had tested negative.

The health of the college student, diagnosed with Nipah virus, has improved, government said here Thursday evening.

He is being treated at a private hospital here.

"He is taking food. He spoke to his family members through intercom. Fever has subsided," a government bulletin said here.

Shailaja, who is in Delhi to meet Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, said the state will continue to remain alert till July 15.

"There is no need for any concern. Result of the sample of the seventh person is also negative," she said.

They are currently being treated at the isolation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital, Kalamassery, here.

The minister said she will seek more funds from the central government to set up a virology institute at least of Level 3 standard in Kerala.

The government has also urged the people to continue to take precautionary measures to prevent spread of the disease.

A total of 316 people, who were in touch with the infected person, have been kept under observation.

State Health Principal Secretary Rajan N Khobragade said out of the 316 people, 33 have been put in the high risk category.

The Union Health Ministry has deployed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to conduct contact tracing for early detection of suspects and review of isolation facilities.

A designated control room has been established at the district collector's office and an isolation ward established at the Government Medical College in Ernakulam, the Health Ministry had said in a statement Tuesday.

Isolation facilities have also been ensured at medical colleges at Kozhikode, Thrissur and Kottayam.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans.

Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection and encephalitis.

Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting and sore throat.

This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Concerns related to the spread of Nipah in Kerala were allayed further, with Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja on Friday saying samples of one more person suspected to be infected with the potentially deadly virus have tested negative.

Concerns related to the spread of Nipah in Kerala were allayed further, with Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja on Friday saying samples of one more person suspected to be infected with the potentially deadly virus have tested negative. One more person currently being treated at the isolation ward of the Medical College Hospital in Kochi has tested negative, the minister told reporters in New Delhi. The government had Thursday announced that samples of six people, including three nursing staff, who had initially attended on a college student infected with Nipah virus, had tested negative. The health of the college student, diagnosed with Nipah virus, has improved, government said here Thursday evening. He is being treated at a private hospital here. "He is taking food. He spoke to his family members through intercom. Fever has subsided," a government bulletin said here. Shailaja, who is in Delhi to meet Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, said the state will continue to remain alert till July 15. "There is no need for any concern. Result of the sample of the seventh person is also negative," she said. They are currently being treated at the isolation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital, Kalamassery, here. The minister said she will seek more funds from the central government to set up a virology institute at least of Level 3 standard in Kerala. The government has also urged the people to continue to take precautionary measures to prevent spread of the disease. A total of 316 people, who were in touch with the infected person, have been kept under observation. State Health Principal Secretary Rajan N Khobragade said out of the 316 people, 33 have been put in the high risk category. The Union Health Ministry has deployed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to conduct contact tracing for early detection of suspects and review of isolation facilities. A designated control room has been established at the district collector's office and an isolation ward established at the Government Medical College in Ernakulam, the Health Ministry had said in a statement Tuesday. Isolation facilities have also been ensured at medical colleges at Kozhikode, Thrissur and Kottayam. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans. Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection and encephalitis. Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Nipah: Sample of 7th person suspected to be infected tests negative

As many as 79 fresh cases of Swine flu were detected in Rajasthan on Monday, according to data issued by the state's Health Department.

Meanwhile, five people died of Swine flu in the state-one each in Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Chittorgarh - taking the death toll to 112 in a span of over a month (from January 1 to February 11).

Thirty-six cases were detected positive on Monday in Jaipur, nine in Barmer, four in Jhunjhunu three each in Dausa, Bikaner, Ganganagar and Udaipur, two each in Sikar, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Kota, Nagaur, Ajmer and Rajsamand, and one each in Bhilwara, Baran, Bharatpur and Alwar.

Swine flu is an infection caused by one of the several swine influenza viruses (SIV), with the H1N1 strain being the most common across the country.

H1N1 virus spreads when an individual touched an infected or breathes droplets of coughs and sneezes that are in the air.

The symptoms are the same as the seasonal flu, also known as viral fever. This includes a cough, sore throat, and body ache.&nbsp;

As many as 79 fresh cases of Swine flu were detected in Rajasthan on Monday, according to data issued by the state's Health Department. Meanwhile, five people died of Swine flu in the state-one each in Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Chittorgarh - taking the death toll to 112 in a span of over a month (from January 1 to February 11).

As many as 79 fresh cases of Swine flu were detected in Rajasthan on Monday, according to data issued by the state's Health Department. Meanwhile, five people died of Swine flu in the state-one each in Barmer, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Udaipur, and Chittorgarh - taking the death toll to 112 in a span of over a month (from January 1 to February 11). Thirty-six cases were detected positive on Monday in Jaipur, nine in Barmer, four in Jhunjhunu three each in Dausa, Bikaner, Ganganagar and Udaipur, two each in Sikar, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Kota, Nagaur, Ajmer and Rajsamand, and one each in Bhilwara, Baran, Bharatpur and Alwar. Swine flu is an infection caused by one of the several swine influenza viruses (SIV), with the H1N1 strain being the most common across the country. H1N1 virus spreads when an individual touched an infected or breathes droplets of coughs and sneezes that are in the air. The symptoms are the same as the seasonal flu, also known as viral fever. This includes a cough, sore throat, and body ache.

79 fresh cases of Swine flu detected in Rajasthan; death toll touches 112

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number&nbsp;of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab. Over 226 swine flu deaths have already been reported but many doctors suggest that the figures could be much higher.&nbsp;

Dr&nbsp;Vikram Jeet Singh is a senior consultant in internal medicine at a private hospital in Delhi. He has already diagnosed more than 80 swine flu cases so far and says that the infection, without proper prevention, could become an epidemic.

"Considering a city like Delhi, which has much higher density than most cities, is more prone to H1N1 virus spreading among people. I have already admitted more than 37 patients this year in my hospital. The official number of cases don't indicate the real number of swine flu infections and deaths. There are thousands of small private hospitals and every hospital and doctor do not report swine flu cases to municipal corporation of Delhi (MCD)."

Viruses are multiplying in the bitter cold of north India. Swine flu cases have spiralled in the states of Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana. According to data from the national centre for disease control, Rajasthan is the worst affected state with 2,263 cases and 85 deaths this year. Heavily populated Delhi has registered 1,011 cases. Swine flu cases have come to light in Gujarat, Haryana and other states as well. But, these are official reports which have been reported by different hospitals, there are many cases which have gone unreported.

WION spoke to doctors from over four government hospitals and several private hospitals who claim that the real figures may be much more higher than the numbers reported in New Delhi.

An official&nbsp;from one of the biggest hospitals in New Delhi, Ram Manohar Lohiya&nbsp;said, "We do report the cases of H1N1 virus, but many patients who come to the hospital show symptoms&nbsp;similar to the seasonal flu. This&nbsp;makes it more complicated to differentiate the swine flu patients from them. There are many who leave without treatment who are diagnosed with infection."

In all, India has recorded almost 6700 swine cases and 226 deaths this year, the numbers may, in fact, be higher. Doctors say the elderly, newborns, children and adults under 25 are at higher risk.
<img alt="Swine flu" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3f7df2f-81ad-4e56-9b9c-3df842faa352" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/swine%20flu.JPG" />
A contagious disease, swine flu gets transmitted usually when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Those infected thus are treated in complete isolation.&nbsp;

There is fear among the people because the infection can become an epidemic. Swine flu made headlines first in 2009 when it affected people in many countries. The symptoms include a headache, fever, runny nose, cough and muscle pain. A majority of the cases have been reported from densely populated areas, where the probability of infection is higher.

The fear of swine flu became worse as the number of people getting infected with the disease is expected to grow this winter. The H1N1 viruses are expected to be the most prevalent strain this flu season. Only time will tell if the fear is justified.

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab.

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab. Over 226 swine flu deaths have already been reported but many doctors suggest that the figures could be much higher. Dr Vikram Jeet Singh is a senior consultant in internal medicine at a private hospital in Delhi. He has already diagnosed more than 80 swine flu cases so far and says that the infection, without proper prevention, could become an epidemic. "Considering a city like Delhi, which has much higher density than most cities, is more prone to H1N1 virus spreading among people. I have already admitted more than 37 patients this year in my hospital. The official number of cases don't indicate the real number of swine flu infections and deaths. There are thousands of small private hospitals and every hospital and doctor do not report swine flu cases to municipal corporation of Delhi (MCD)." Viruses are multiplying in the bitter cold of north India. Swine flu cases have spiralled in the states of Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana. According to data from the national centre for disease control, Rajasthan is the worst affected state with 2,263 cases and 85 deaths this year. Heavily populated Delhi has registered 1,011 cases. Swine flu cases have come to light in Gujarat, Haryana and other states as well. But, these are official reports which have been reported by different hospitals, there are many cases which have gone unreported. WION spoke to doctors from over four government hospitals and several private hospitals who claim that the real figures may be much more higher than the numbers reported in New Delhi. An official from one of the biggest hospitals in New Delhi, Ram Manohar Lohiya said, "We do report the cases of H1N1 virus, but many patients who come to the hospital show symptoms similar to the seasonal flu. This makes it more complicated to differentiate the swine flu patients from them. There are many who leave without treatment who are diagnosed with infection." In all, India has recorded almost 6700 swine cases and 226 deaths this year, the numbers may, in fact, be higher. Doctors say the elderly, newborns, children and adults under 25 are at higher risk. A contagious disease, swine flu gets transmitted usually when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Those infected thus are treated in complete isolation. There is fear among the people because the infection can become an epidemic. Swine flu made headlines first in 2009 when it affected people in many countries. The symptoms include a headache, fever, runny nose, cough and muscle pain. A majority of the cases have been reported from densely populated areas, where the probability of infection is higher. The fear of swine flu became worse as the number of people getting infected with the disease is expected to grow this winter. The H1N1 viruses are expected to be the most prevalent strain this flu season. Only time will tell if the fear is justified.

Most swine flu cases remain unreported in India: Doctors

Union Minister for Health, JP Nadda on Tuesday downplayed the Nipah virus outbreak, assuring that the situation was under control.

"Within 12 hours of the Nipah virus outbreak, a team of doctors reached Kerala, discussed the disease's management and controlled it in a time-bound manner. Health Ministry and I are personally monitoring the situation. There is no need to panic," said Nadda.

Earlier, Nadda had claimed that the outbreak of the virus was a result of "tampering with nature".

Nadda further noted that scientists from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Safdarjung Hospital, National Institute of Virology in Pune and doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control are supporting health authorities in Kerala in managing the outbreak.

Eighteen people have so far contracted the Nipah virus in Kerala. Of them, 17 have died while two are recovering well.&nbsp;

Over 2,000 people who it is thought may have contracted the virus are currently being monitored in Kerala.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has banned frozen and processed fruit and vegetable imports from Kerala amid concerns over the deadly Nipah virus outbreak.

The Nipah virus itself can cause encephalitis - a dangerous swelling of the brain - and common symptoms vary from none to elevated fevers, cough, headache, shortness of breath and confusion, the Gulf News reported on Monday.

The UAE had on May 29 banned the import of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kerala. UAE officials announced that 100 tonnes of fruit, vegetables and fresh produce that was to be imported from Kerala was prohibited from entry.

He further noted that scientists from AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, National Institute of Virology in Pune and doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control are supporting health authorities in Kerala in managing the outbreak

Union Minister for Health, JP Nadda on Tuesday downplayed the Nipah virus outbreak, assuring that the situation was under control. "Within 12 hours of the Nipah virus outbreak, a team of doctors reached Kerala, discussed the disease's management and controlled it in a time-bound manner. Health Ministry and I are personally monitoring the situation. There is no need to panic," said Nadda. Earlier, Nadda had claimed that the outbreak of the virus was a result of "tampering with nature". Nadda further noted that scientists from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Safdarjung Hospital, National Institute of Virology in Pune and doctors from the National Centre for Disease Control are supporting health authorities in Kerala in managing the outbreak. Eighteen people have so far contracted the Nipah virus in Kerala. Of them, 17 have died while two are recovering well. Over 2,000 people who it is thought may have contracted the virus are currently being monitored in Kerala. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has banned frozen and processed fruit and vegetable imports from Kerala amid concerns over the deadly Nipah virus outbreak. The Nipah virus itself can cause encephalitis - a dangerous swelling of the brain - and common symptoms vary from none to elevated fevers, cough, headache, shortness of breath and confusion, the Gulf News reported on Monday. The UAE had on May 29 banned the import of fresh fruits and vegetables from Kerala. UAE officials announced that 100 tonnes of fruit, vegetables and fresh produce that was to be imported from Kerala was prohibited from entry.

Nipah virus controlled within 12 hours, no need to panic: Union Health Minister

The Nipah virus scare continues to intensify with Kerala losing at least 9 people to the fatal viral disease. The South Indian state of Kerala has been put on high alert and experts now suspect the deadly virus to sprawl to Mumbai and Goa as well; hospitals have been alerted.&nbsp;

Goa's Health Department has asked the authorities to keep the hospitals ready and all facilities updated in the event of an outbreak. Goa's Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane has informed that the Goan authorities will be carrying out random checking on travellers from Kerala as per the medical guidelines provided by the Central government.&nbsp;

Rane added that the Goan officials are in regular touch with the Kerala authorities over the matter. He noted that the virus spreads through fruit seeds and that the disease infected people across the world in the year 2014.

Kerala was put on high alert on Monday after a number of people from one family <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-put-on-high-alert-after-rare-nipah-virus-kills-9-138503">died in Kozhikode</a> in over a fortnight due deadly Nipah virus. According to the National Virology Institute, Pune, the virus has spread and also killed people in Malappuram districts over the last fortnight. With six more people succumbing to symptoms suspected to be that of the Nipah virus on Sunday, the current death toll stands at nine.&nbsp;

"The kind of virus that caused the disease has not been ascertained. Blood and other samples of the deceased have been sent to the National Virology Institute in Pune. The results will be made available in a few days", PTI quoted state Health Minister KK Shylaja.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda has on Monday called for the constitution of a high-level team of doctors to tackle the situation in Kerala.

Nipah virus (NiV) infection is a newly emerging disease that can transmit to humans from animals. The natural host of the virus is fruit bats.&nbsp;

The symptoms can range from fever, headache, drowsiness, respiratory illness to disorientation and mental confusion. A person can also go into a state of coma within 24-48 hours. There is no vaccine available for the infection, however, the disease can be prevented by avoiding exposure to sick pigs and bats in endemic areas and by not consuming raw date palm sap.

Nine people have died in Kerala from confirmed or suspected cases of the virus. Goa's Health Department has asked authorities to keep hospitals ready and all facilities updated in the event of an outbreak

The Nipah virus scare continues to intensify with Kerala losing at least 9 people to the fatal viral disease. The South Indian state of Kerala has been put on high alert and experts now suspect the deadly virus to sprawl to Mumbai and Goa as well; hospitals have been alerted. Goa's Health Department has asked the authorities to keep the hospitals ready and all facilities updated in the event of an outbreak. Goa's Health Minister Vishwajeet Rane has informed that the Goan authorities will be carrying out random checking on travellers from Kerala as per the medical guidelines provided by the Central government. Rane added that the Goan officials are in regular touch with the Kerala authorities over the matter. He noted that the virus spreads through fruit seeds and that the disease infected people across the world in the year 2014. Kerala was put on high alert on Monday after a number of people from one family died in Kozhikode in over a fortnight due deadly Nipah virus. According to the National Virology Institute, Pune, the virus has spread and also killed people in Malappuram districts over the last fortnight. With six more people succumbing to symptoms suspected to be that of the Nipah virus on Sunday, the current death toll stands at nine. "The kind of virus that caused the disease has not been ascertained. Blood and other samples of the deceased have been sent to the National Virology Institute in Pune. The results will be made available in a few days", PTI quoted state Health Minister KK Shylaja. Union Health Minister JP Nadda has on Monday called for the constitution of a high-level team of doctors to tackle the situation in Kerala. Nipah virus (NiV) infection is a newly emerging disease that can transmit to humans from animals. The natural host of the virus is fruit bats. The symptoms can range from fever, headache, drowsiness, respiratory illness to disorientation and mental confusion. A person can also go into a state of coma within 24-48 hours. There is no vaccine available for the infection, however, the disease can be prevented by avoiding exposure to sick pigs and bats in endemic areas and by not consuming raw date palm sap.

After outbreak in Kerala, Nipah virus may spread to Mumbai, Goa

The Nipah virus scare continues to intensify with Kerala losing at least 11 people to the fatal viral disease.&nbsp;Kerala has been put on high alert and experts now suspect the deadly virus to sprawl to Mumbai and Goa as well; hospitals have been alerted.&nbsp;

Sixteen people are under observation at the Institute of Chest Diseases, geriatric and observation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode.

There is no vaccine for the Nipah virus, which is spread through body fluids and can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, the World Health Organization (WHO) says. The usual treatment is to provide supportive care. 
The first death in the outbreak in Kerala took place on Friday, the state`s health minister, K K Shailaja, said.

"This is a new situation for us. We have no prior experience in dealing with the Nipah virus," she said. "We are hopeful we can put a stop to the outbreak."

Of 18 people screened for the virus, 12 proved positive, Shailaja told a news conference, adding that 10 of the sufferers had died and the other two were being closely monitored.

The Indian government dispatched a team of officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to investigate the outbreak, it said in a statement.

"Since all the contacts are under observation and steps to avoid exposure through animal vectors have been taken, there is no reason for people to panic," it added.

The WHO is in contact with government officials in the affected areas, Henk Bekedam, its India representative, said in a statement.

Health experts stressed the need for early detection and infection control to arrest the virus`s spread.

"It will not spread like wildfire because it is not airborne, but it can be risky if they don`t follow proper infection control procedures," said Dr D Himanshu, of King George`s Medical University in the northern city of Lucknow.

While the cause of the outbreak is still being investigated, visiting national health officials tied the initial deaths to "many bats" in a well in Kerala from which the victims drew water, the government said.

Samples from those bats were among the 60 sent to laboratories to be screened for the virus, it added.

The cases provoked concern among residents, a local government official said.

"A large number of people affected by fever, and even minor ailments, are swarming to hospitals, fearing they have contracted the disease," said U.V. Jose.

Health officials in Kerala, which attracts many tourists, aims to soon issue a travel advisory, tourism official P Bala Kiran said.

The Nipah virus was first detected in Malaysia in 1998, and India has suffered two outbreaks in the last decade, killing 50 people, according to the WHO.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Sixteen more are under observation at the Government Medical College Hospital in Kozhikode.

The Nipah virus scare continues to intensify with Kerala losing at least 11 people to the fatal viral disease. Kerala has been put on high alert and experts now suspect the deadly virus to sprawl to Mumbai and Goa as well; hospitals have been alerted. Sixteen people are under observation at the Institute of Chest Diseases, geriatric and observation ward of the Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode. There is no vaccine for the Nipah virus, which is spread through body fluids and can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, the World Health Organization (WHO) says. The usual treatment is to provide supportive care. The first death in the outbreak in Kerala took place on Friday, the state`s health minister, K K Shailaja, said. "This is a new situation for us. We have no prior experience in dealing with the Nipah virus," she said. "We are hopeful we can put a stop to the outbreak." Of 18 people screened for the virus, 12 proved positive, Shailaja told a news conference, adding that 10 of the sufferers had died and the other two were being closely monitored. The Indian government dispatched a team of officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to investigate the outbreak, it said in a statement. "Since all the contacts are under observation and steps to avoid exposure through animal vectors have been taken, there is no reason for people to panic," it added. The WHO is in contact with government officials in the affected areas, Henk Bekedam, its India representative, said in a statement. Health experts stressed the need for early detection and infection control to arrest the virus`s spread. "It will not spread like wildfire because it is not airborne, but it can be risky if they don`t follow proper infection control procedures," said Dr D Himanshu, of King George`s Medical University in the northern city of Lucknow. While the cause of the outbreak is still being investigated, visiting national health officials tied the initial deaths to "many bats" in a well in Kerala from which the victims drew water, the government said. Samples from those bats were among the 60 sent to laboratories to be screened for the virus, it added. The cases provoked concern among residents, a local government official said. "A large number of people affected by fever, and even minor ailments, are swarming to hospitals, fearing they have contracted the disease," said U.V. Jose. Health officials in Kerala, which attracts many tourists, aims to soon issue a travel advisory, tourism official P Bala Kiran said. The Nipah virus was first detected in Malaysia in 1998, and India has suffered two outbreaks in the last decade, killing 50 people, according to the WHO. (With inputs from Reuters)

Nipah virus infection: Death toll in Kerala rises to 11

Listeriosis infection in&nbsp;South African is reported to have claimed as many as 172 lives since the start of 2017. According to local officials, the country struggles to contain the disease in what is now being called the world&#39;s largest reported outbreak.

According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), close to 915 cases of the disease have been reported in the country so far, leading to 172 deaths.&nbsp;

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention describes Listeriosis as a &quot;serious infection&quot;, caused by consuming food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes.&nbsp;

&quot;An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and about 260 die. The infection is most likely to sicken pregnant women and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems,&quot; notes CDC&#39;s official website.&nbsp;

&quot;Outbreaks of Listeria infections in the 1990s were primarily linked to deli meats and hot dogs. Now, Listeria outbreaks are often linked to dairy products and produce. Investigators have traced recent outbreaks to soft cheeses, celery, sprouts, cantaloupe, and ice cream,&quot; states CDC.&nbsp;

915 cases of the disease have been reported in the country so far, leading to 172 deaths

Listeriosis infection in South African is reported to have claimed as many as 172 lives since the start of 2017. According to local officials, the country struggles to contain the disease in what is now being called the world's largest reported outbreak. According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), close to 915 cases of the disease have been reported in the country so far, leading to 172 deaths. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention describes Listeriosis as a "serious infection", caused by consuming food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. "An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and about 260 die. The infection is most likely to sicken pregnant women and their newborns, adults aged 65 or older, and people with weakened immune systems," notes CDC's official website. "Outbreaks of Listeria infections in the 1990s were primarily linked to deli meats and hot dogs. Now, Listeria outbreaks are often linked to dairy products and produce. Investigators have traced recent outbreaks to soft cheeses, celery, sprouts, cantaloupe, and ice cream," states CDC.

Listeriosis outbreak: Death toll jumps to 172 in South Africa

A Utah resident infected with the Zika virus has died, becoming the first Zika-related fatality in the continental United States, officials said on Friday. 
 
The elderly victim, who had an underlying health condition, died in late June after traveling to a country where the mosquito-transmitted virus is active, the Salt Lake County health department said. 
 
&quot;While this individual did test positive for Zika virus, the exact cause of death has not been determined, and it may not be possible to determine how the Zika infection contributed to the death,&quot; the health department said in a statement. 
 
The victim&#39;s identity and travel history would not be released, it added. 
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in April that a man in his 70s infected with the Zika virus had died of complications from the infection on the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, which is part of US territory. 
 
The virus is spreading fast on the island, infecting as many as 50 pregnant women per day, health officials said earlier this week. 
 
So far, however, no cases of locally transmitted, mosquito-borne Zika have been reported in the continental United States, the CDC said in a statement on Friday. 
 
As of July 6, a total of 1,132 cases of people who contracted the virus while traveling abroad had been registered in the United States, it said. 
 
However, health officials are bracing for outbreaks of the virus among local mosquito populations.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;CDC has been working with state, local, and territorial health officials to prepare for the possibility of locally-acquired Zika infection in the United States,&quot; the CDC said. 
 
No vaccine or treatment for the Zika virus currently exists and many of those infected will not show symptoms, the CDC says. 
 
Pregnant women are the focus of greatest concern because the virus causes birth defects. 
 
US President Barack Obama has requested $1.9 billion to fight the virus, but lawmakers are deadlocked over the issue and there are fears Congress will fail to address the growing health crisis until after its summer recess in September. 
 
(AFP)

A public health institute said the US has around 1,132 registered cases of people who contracted the virus while travelling abroad

A Utah resident infected with the Zika virus has died, becoming the first Zika-related fatality in the continental United States, officials said on Friday. The elderly victim, who had an underlying health condition, died in late June after traveling to a country where the mosquito-transmitted virus is active, the Salt Lake County health department said. "While this individual did test positive for Zika virus, the exact cause of death has not been determined, and it may not be possible to determine how the Zika infection contributed to the death," the health department said in a statement. The victim's identity and travel history would not be released, it added. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in April that a man in his 70s infected with the Zika virus had died of complications from the infection on the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico, which is part of US territory. The virus is spreading fast on the island, infecting as many as 50 pregnant women per day, health officials said earlier this week. So far, however, no cases of locally transmitted, mosquito-borne Zika have been reported in the continental United States, the CDC said in a statement on Friday. As of July 6, a total of 1,132 cases of people who contracted the virus while traveling abroad had been registered in the United States, it said. However, health officials are bracing for outbreaks of the virus among local mosquito populations. "CDC has been working with state, local, and territorial health officials to prepare for the possibility of locally-acquired Zika infection in the United States," the CDC said. No vaccine or treatment for the Zika virus currently exists and many of those infected will not show symptoms, the CDC says. Pregnant women are the focus of greatest concern because the virus causes birth defects. US President Barack Obama has requested $1.9 billion to fight the virus, but lawmakers are deadlocked over the issue and there are fears Congress will fail to address the growing health crisis until after its summer recess in September. (AFP)

Continental US records first Zika-related death

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