Health authorities are wrestling with a surge in dengue fever cases as monsoon rains batter the densely populated country. According to WHO report issued this month, the higher incidence of dengue is taking place because of unusual amount of rainfall.

Bangladesh: Surge in dengue fever; WHO urges swift action as cases rise | World News | WION

<p>Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Covid origins</strong></h2>

<p>Four years ago, the first cases of coronavirus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan. There are multiple theories on the origins of the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One theory suggests that the virus has zoonotic origins and that it jumped from animals to humans. Another theory proposes that it was accidentally leaked from the city's virology laboratory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/severe-covid-infection-linked-to-genes-inherited-from-neanderthal-ancestors-637046">People with one particular line of gene more susceptible to severe Covid: Study</a></strong></p>

<p>However, there is no scientific consensus about COVID-19's origins and, as per WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, all options remained “on the table",&nbsp;reports Financial Times.</p>

<p>“Unless we get evidence beyond reasonable doubt, we cannot just say this or that,” he said, adding that “we will get the answer. It's a matter of time.”</p>

<h2><strong>China urged to share information</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to the Financial Times, Tedros revealed that they are “pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — [and urge Beijing] to co-operate.”</p>

<p>“We have already asked in writing to give us information. . . And [are] also willing to send a team if they allow us to do so.”</p>

<p>Previously, the WHO has been accused of being too lenient with China and its initial slow response to the global pandemic. Critics say China's initial response enabled the global transmission rates to soar beyond the nation's borders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-decoupling-speeds-up-as-it-loses-about-200-billion-from-its-markets-637015">China’s decoupling speeds up as it loses about $200 billion from its markets</a></strong></p>

<p>Subsequently, in early 2021, a team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese experts investigated COVID-19's origins. Their joint report favoured the zoonotic origins hypothesis.</p>

<p>This comes as health authorities have updated Covid vaccines after a rise in coronavirus cases. The global health body also cautioned nations about the highly mutated BA.2.86 and other Omicron sub-variants and has asked them to increase surveillance.</p>

<p>Next week, world leaders for the first time will discuss pandemic preparedness at high-level meetings during the UN&nbsp;General Assembly gathering in New York.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus.

Years after the world battled the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic, the genesis of the virus remains unclear. The World Health Organization (WHO) chief has now urged China to offer more information on the origins of the coronavirus. Covid origins Four years ago, the first cases of coronavirus emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan. There are multiple theories on the origins of the virus. One theory suggests that the virus has zoonotic origins and that it jumped from animals to humans. Another theory proposes that it was accidentally leaked from the city's virology laboratory. Also read | People with one particular line of gene more susceptible to severe Covid: Study However, there is no scientific consensus about COVID-19's origins and, as per WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, all options remained “on the table", reports Financial Times. “Unless we get evidence beyond reasonable doubt, we cannot just say this or that,” he said, adding that “we will get the answer. It's a matter of time.” China urged to share information Talking to the Financial Times, Tedros revealed that they are “pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — [and urge Beijing] to co-operate.” “We have already asked in writing to give us information. . . And [are] also willing to send a team if they allow us to do so.” Previously, the WHO has been accused of being too lenient with China and its initial slow response to the global pandemic. Critics say China's initial response enabled the global transmission rates to soar beyond the nation's borders. Also read | China’s decoupling speeds up as it loses about $200 billion from its markets Subsequently, in early 2021, a team of specialists led by the WHO and accompanied by Chinese experts investigated COVID-19's origins. Their joint report favoured the zoonotic origins hypothesis. This comes as health authorities have updated Covid vaccines after a rise in coronavirus cases. The global health body also cautioned nations about the highly mutated BA.2.86 and other Omicron sub-variants and has asked them to increase surveillance. Next week, world leaders for the first time will discuss pandemic preparedness at high-level meetings during the UN General Assembly gathering in New York. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO urges China to reveal information about COVID-19 origins

Days after devastating floods hit the North African country of Libya, the nation's red crescent confirmed that the death toll was 11,300. Now the United Nations has released an updated figure, which is much lower than what was reported over the weekend.

WHO revised death toll: Over 3900 deaths, 9000 missing

<p>World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged China to offer more information on the origins of coronavirus. He told the Financial Times on Sunday (September 17) that the health agency is ready to send a second team to probe the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — to urge Beijing to cooperate," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told the newspaper.</p>

<p>Ever since the virus spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, several claims and counterclaims have been made over its origin. Many assumed that it spread in a live animal market before spreading throughout the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/summer-2023-was-hottest-on-record-since-1880-confirms-nasa-636886">Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The virus, to some extent, has subsided and now the health authorities and pharmaceutical companies around the world are racing to update vaccines to battle newer developing coronavirus types.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ghebreyesus has long pressed China to provide information concerning the origins of COVID-19, claiming that until this happens, all hypotheses remain open.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sea-ice-around-antarctica-recedes-to-historically-low-levels-scientists-636821">Sea ice around Antarctica recedes to historically low levels: Scientists</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Human trafficking: Why is it hard to combat? | Dark World&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>CIA and Covid controversy</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Allegations have been made against the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in which several of their analysts were paid to change their views on the origins of Covid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Sky News, Stanford University Professor Dr Jayanta Bhattacharya said that the entire world needs "absolute transparency" on the CIA Covid origins allegations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhattacharya said: "What was the CIA’s role – what role did they have and why was there any interest in covering up that fact? If these allegations are correct, that the CIA actually paid off its own analyst to not tell the public or at least not even tell the president that the CIA thought that the virus was as a result of laboratory work – it’s just shocking."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is something the entire world deserves to know; we need absolute transparency in this. This is not a question of national security anymore – this is a question of human rights – it’s a question of honesty," Bhattacharya added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged China to offer more information on the origins of coronavirus. He told the Financial Times on Sunday (September 17) that the health agency is ready to send a second team to probe the matter.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus urged China to offer more information on the origins of coronavirus. He told the Financial Times on Sunday (September 17) that the health agency is ready to send a second team to probe the matter. "We're pressing China to give full access, and we are asking countries to raise it during their bilateral meetings — to urge Beijing to cooperate," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told the newspaper. Ever since the virus spread was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020, several claims and counterclaims have been made over its origin. Many assumed that it spread in a live animal market before spreading throughout the world. Also read: Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA The outbreak became a pandemic in just a few weeks that year in March, and caused havoc on mankind, killing millions of people and leaving many more reeling with long-Covid. The virus, to some extent, has subsided and now the health authorities and pharmaceutical companies around the world are racing to update vaccines to battle newer developing coronavirus types. Ghebreyesus has long pressed China to provide information concerning the origins of COVID-19, claiming that until this happens, all hypotheses remain open. Also read: Sea ice around Antarctica recedes to historically low levels: Scientists Watch: Human trafficking: Why is it hard to combat? | Dark World × CIA and Covid controversy Allegations have been made against the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in which several of their analysts were paid to change their views on the origins of Covid. As quoted by Sky News, Stanford University Professor Dr Jayanta Bhattacharya said that the entire world needs "absolute transparency" on the CIA Covid origins allegations. Bhattacharya said: "What was the CIA’s role – what role did they have and why was there any interest in covering up that fact? If these allegations are correct, that the CIA actually paid off its own analyst to not tell the public or at least not even tell the president that the CIA thought that the virus was as a result of laboratory work – it’s just shocking." "This is something the entire world deserves to know; we need absolute transparency in this. This is not a question of national security anymore – this is a question of human rights – it’s a question of honesty," Bhattacharya added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO again asks China for 'full access' to determine Covid's origins: Report

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<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday (September 6) warned of concerning trends for Covid ahead of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and called for increased vaccinations and surveillance. Addressing a press conference, WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "We continue to see concerning trends for COVID-19 ahead of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere."</p>

<p>Ghebreyesus said that deaths were increasing in some parts of the Middle East and Asia, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions were increasing in Europe and hospitalisations were increasing in several regions.</p>

<p>However, the WHO chief pointed out that only 43 countries (out of the 194 member states) were reporting deaths to the agency, and only 20 provided information about hospitalisations.</p>

<h2><strong>'Hundreds of thousands hospitalised for Covid': WHO</strong></h2>

<p>During Wednesday's press conference, WHO's technical lead on Covid Maria Van Kerkhove said the agency estimated that there were hundreds of thousands of people hospitalised for the virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That is a worry given that when we get to colder months, in some countries, people tend to spend more time indoors together, and viruses that transmit through the air like Covid will take advantage of that," Kerkhove added. She further emphasised the importance of testing as well as vaccination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-flouts-covid-19-guidelines-laughs-off-wearing-masks-despite-exposure-to-virus-633182">Joe Biden flouts COVID-19 guidelines, laughs off wearing masks despite exposure to virus</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ghebreyesus also told reporters on Wednesday that there was not currently a single dominant variant of the virus worldwide but the EG.5 Omicron subvariant was on the rise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Small numbers of the highly mutated BA.2.86 subvariant have also now been detected in 11 countries," Tedros said, adding the WHO was monitoring this variant to assess its transmissibility and potential impact.</p>

<p>"The increase in hospitalisations and deaths shows that COVID-19 is here to stay, and that we will continue to need tools to fight it," he also said.</p>

<h2><strong>WHO's Covid knowledge-sharing platform secures 3 license agreements</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, the WHO's global Covid knowledge-sharing platform called COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP) secured&nbsp;three new licensing agreements to transfer vaccine technologies. According to a report by the news agency AFP on August 29, the C-TAP had until now secured licensing agreements with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) for an antibody test, and with the US National Institute of Health (NIH) for the development of therapeutics, early-stage vaccines and diagnostic tools.</p>

<p>However, the WHO said the number of agreements doubled with the CSIC providing a second one -- this time for a COVID-19 vaccine prototype -- and the University of Chile providing one for a test of Covid antibody neutralisation levels.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday (September 6) warned of concerning trends for Covid ahead of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and called for increased vaccinations and surveillance.

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday (September 6) warned of concerning trends for Covid ahead of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and called for increased vaccinations and surveillance. Addressing a press conference, WHO Chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, "We continue to see concerning trends for COVID-19 ahead of the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere." Ghebreyesus said that deaths were increasing in some parts of the Middle East and Asia, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions were increasing in Europe and hospitalisations were increasing in several regions. However, the WHO chief pointed out that only 43 countries (out of the 194 member states) were reporting deaths to the agency, and only 20 provided information about hospitalisations. 'Hundreds of thousands hospitalised for Covid': WHO During Wednesday's press conference, WHO's technical lead on Covid Maria Van Kerkhove said the agency estimated that there were hundreds of thousands of people hospitalised for the virus. "That is a worry given that when we get to colder months, in some countries, people tend to spend more time indoors together, and viruses that transmit through the air like Covid will take advantage of that," Kerkhove added. She further emphasised the importance of testing as well as vaccination. Also read | Joe Biden flouts COVID-19 guidelines, laughs off wearing masks despite exposure to virus Meanwhile, Ghebreyesus also told reporters on Wednesday that there was not currently a single dominant variant of the virus worldwide but the EG.5 Omicron subvariant was on the rise. "Small numbers of the highly mutated BA.2.86 subvariant have also now been detected in 11 countries," Tedros said, adding the WHO was monitoring this variant to assess its transmissibility and potential impact. "The increase in hospitalisations and deaths shows that COVID-19 is here to stay, and that we will continue to need tools to fight it," he also said. WHO's Covid knowledge-sharing platform secures 3 license agreements Last week, the WHO's global Covid knowledge-sharing platform called COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP) secured three new licensing agreements to transfer vaccine technologies. According to a report by the news agency AFP on August 29, the C-TAP had until now secured licensing agreements with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) for an antibody test, and with the US National Institute of Health (NIH) for the development of therapeutics, early-stage vaccines and diagnostic tools. However, the WHO said the number of agreements doubled with the CSIC providing a second one -- this time for a COVID-19 vaccine prototype -- and the University of Chile providing one for a test of Covid antibody neutralisation levels. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO warns of concerning Covid trends ahead of winter in Northern Hemisphere

If you thought that the Covid-19 pandemic is over then think again. In the month of May, the WHO said that Covid is no longer a 'global emergency', now there is a spike in the infections around the world in just four months.

Spike in Covid cases around the world; New Pirola variant behind the rise?

<p>Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday praised India for advancing health coverage and schemes. Dr Tedros made the remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the ongoing G20 Health Ministers' Meeting in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.</p>

<p>At the begining of his address, Dr Tedros thanked India for its gracious hospitality and visionary leadership in hosting the G20 Summit.</p>

<p>"I commend India for their steps in advancing Universal Health Coverage and the Ayushman Bharat scheme which is the world 's largest health assurance initiative," the WHO chief said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-chief-hails-modis-home-state-gujarat-as-futures-mecca-of-traditional-medicine-627109">WHO chief hails Modi's home state Gujarat as future's 'Mecca of traditional medicine'</a></p>

<p>He also recalled his visit to a Health and Wellness Centre and lauded the services being provided there.</p>

<p>"I visited a Health and Wellness Centre here in Gandhinagar and was impressed by the primary healthcare services being provided to 1000 households by the HWC," he added.</p>

<p>He also hailed the telemedicine facilities provided in Gujarat and thanked India's G20 Presidency for the Global Digital Health Initiative to be launched on Saturday.</p>

<p>"I commend the telemedicine services being provided here, which provide prescriptions and treatment locally. It is an excellent example of transforming healthcare. I also thank India G20 Presidency for taking leadership in the Global Digital Health Initiative which will be launched tomorrow," Dr Tedros said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-nine-indian-soldiers-dead-many-injured-after-army-vehicle-plunges-into-gorge-627075">Ladakh: Nine Indian soldiers dead after Army vehicle plunges into gorge</a></p>

<p>Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday said that more than 70 delegates from different countries are participating in the G20 Health Ministers' meeting and side event in Gandhinagar here.</p>

<p>The three-day G20 Health Ministers' meeting under G20 India Presidency will culminate on August 19."</p>

<p>More than 70 delegates from different countries are participating in the G20 Health Ministers' meeting and side events. "We are showing India's Health model to the people and they are appreciating it. The Modi government has seen the health sector with a holistic approach," Mandaviya said.</p>

<p>The G20 Health Ministers' meeting under G20 India Presidency is being held during from August 17 to 19 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India’s Chandrayaan-3 in faceoff with Russia’s Luna-25 for unchartered lunar south pole</strong></p>

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<p>India assumed the presidency of the G20 on December 1, 2022, and is currently part of the G20 Troika comprising Indonesia, India and Brazil. India's G20 Presidency marked the first time that the troika is consisting of three developing and emerging economies.</p>

<p>The focus of the G20 Health Minister's Meeting will be on the three key priorities of the G20 Health Track, including health emergencies prevention, preparedness and response with a focus on anti-microbial resistance and One Health framework; Strengthening cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (Vaccines, Therapeutics and Diagnostics); and Digital Health innovations and solutions to aid universal health coverage and improve healthcare service delivery.</p>

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Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday praised India for advancing health coverage and schemes. Dr Tedros made the remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the ongoing G20 Health Ministers' Meeting in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday praised India for advancing health coverage and schemes. Dr Tedros made the remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the ongoing G20 Health Ministers' Meeting in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. At the begining of his address, Dr Tedros thanked India for its gracious hospitality and visionary leadership in hosting the G20 Summit. "I commend India for their steps in advancing Universal Health Coverage and the Ayushman Bharat scheme which is the world 's largest health assurance initiative," the WHO chief said. Also Read | WHO chief hails Modi's home state Gujarat as future's 'Mecca of traditional medicine' He also recalled his visit to a Health and Wellness Centre and lauded the services being provided there. "I visited a Health and Wellness Centre here in Gandhinagar and was impressed by the primary healthcare services being provided to 1000 households by the HWC," he added. He also hailed the telemedicine facilities provided in Gujarat and thanked India's G20 Presidency for the Global Digital Health Initiative to be launched on Saturday. "I commend the telemedicine services being provided here, which provide prescriptions and treatment locally. It is an excellent example of transforming healthcare. I also thank India G20 Presidency for taking leadership in the Global Digital Health Initiative which will be launched tomorrow," Dr Tedros said. Also Read | Ladakh: Nine Indian soldiers dead after Army vehicle plunges into gorge Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday said that more than 70 delegates from different countries are participating in the G20 Health Ministers' meeting and side event in Gandhinagar here. The three-day G20 Health Ministers' meeting under G20 India Presidency will culminate on August 19." More than 70 delegates from different countries are participating in the G20 Health Ministers' meeting and side events. "We are showing India's Health model to the people and they are appreciating it. The Modi government has seen the health sector with a holistic approach," Mandaviya said. The G20 Health Ministers' meeting under G20 India Presidency is being held during from August 17 to 19 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Watch | India’s Chandrayaan-3 in faceoff with Russia’s Luna-25 for unchartered lunar south pole × India assumed the presidency of the G20 on December 1, 2022, and is currently part of the G20 Troika comprising Indonesia, India and Brazil. India's G20 Presidency marked the first time that the troika is consisting of three developing and emerging economies. The focus of the G20 Health Minister's Meeting will be on the three key priorities of the G20 Health Track, including health emergencies prevention, preparedness and response with a focus on anti-microbial resistance and One Health framework; Strengthening cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (Vaccines, Therapeutics and Diagnostics); and Digital Health innovations and solutions to aid universal health coverage and improve healthcare service delivery. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WHO chief hails India for Universal Health Coverage, Ayushman Bharat Scheme

<p>China is currently witnessing world's fastest increase in cases of mpox (previously known as monkeypox), a recent report by World Health Organization (WHO) has said. The agency has recommended that the country acts quickly to bring the spread under control.</p>

<p>Asia has become as the new hotspot of the disease while countries in the Americas and Europe have mostly contained the mpox outbreak. The outbreak started in mid-2022.</p>

<p>Last year, countries like Japan, South Korea and Thailand witnessed sporadic cases. This year, these countries have reported weekly double-digit number of cases.</p>

<p>However, the latest WHO data says that China has overtaken all other countries in the world. In last three months, 315 confirmed mpox cases have been found. However, irregularity in reporting from the government makes it hard to gauge the true scale of the disease.</p>

<p>Countries have shown varying success in containing mpox, which is less contagious than Covid-19 but has affected thousands across the world. The success in controlling mpox outbreak is often attributed to proactive measures like vaccination. A report in South China Morning Post (SCMP) has suggested that action taken by Chinese government leaves a lot to be desired.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | WHO: China faces fastest rise in Mpox cases</strong></p>

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<p>“Compared with the response to Covid-19 […] the [Chinese] response is certainly dramatically different,” says Yanzhong Huang, who is a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations in the United States. Yanzhong was quoted by MIT Technology Review.</p>

<p>“Even though [mpox] is less likely to develop into a large outbreak in the country, the Pollyanna attitude may encourage the spread of the disease among the at-risk population – unless they take a more active campaign against the disease.”</p>

<p>“Overall, compared to where we were last year, we’re definitely in a different place,” says Krutika Kuppalli, who is an infectious-disease doctor quoted by MIT Technology Review.</p>

<p>“We have much fewer cases, but we are seeing sporadic outbreaks in different parts of the world.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-reports-a-five-fold-increase-in-mpox-cases-96-patients-are-male-624321">China reports a five-fold increase in mpox cases; 96% patients are male</a></strong></p>

<p>Chinese government has been criticised for being opaque about reporting true extent of the problem in the country. The authorities do not post number of infections on a regular basis.</p>

<p>“We also need to understand more about the people that have been infected,” Kuppalli says, “such as […] the demographics, the clinical presentation, their immune status and about how they’ve been presenting to care. I think that type of information is important.”</p>

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China is currently witnessing world's fastest increase in cases of mpox (previously known as monkeypox), a recent report by World Health Organization (WHO) has said.

China is currently witnessing world's fastest increase in cases of mpox (previously known as monkeypox), a recent report by World Health Organization (WHO) has said. The agency has recommended that the country acts quickly to bring the spread under control. Asia has become as the new hotspot of the disease while countries in the Americas and Europe have mostly contained the mpox outbreak. The outbreak started in mid-2022. Last year, countries like Japan, South Korea and Thailand witnessed sporadic cases. This year, these countries have reported weekly double-digit number of cases. However, the latest WHO data says that China has overtaken all other countries in the world. In last three months, 315 confirmed mpox cases have been found. However, irregularity in reporting from the government makes it hard to gauge the true scale of the disease. Countries have shown varying success in containing mpox, which is less contagious than Covid-19 but has affected thousands across the world. The success in controlling mpox outbreak is often attributed to proactive measures like vaccination. A report in South China Morning Post (SCMP) has suggested that action taken by Chinese government leaves a lot to be desired. Watch | WHO: China faces fastest rise in Mpox cases × “Compared with the response to Covid-19 […] the [Chinese] response is certainly dramatically different,” says Yanzhong Huang, who is a senior fellow for global health at the Council on Foreign Relations in the United States. Yanzhong was quoted by MIT Technology Review. “Even though [mpox] is less likely to develop into a large outbreak in the country, the Pollyanna attitude may encourage the spread of the disease among the at-risk population – unless they take a more active campaign against the disease.” “Overall, compared to where we were last year, we’re definitely in a different place,” says Krutika Kuppalli, who is an infectious-disease doctor quoted by MIT Technology Review. “We have much fewer cases, but we are seeing sporadic outbreaks in different parts of the world.” Also Read | China reports a five-fold increase in mpox cases; 96% patients are male Chinese government has been criticised for being opaque about reporting true extent of the problem in the country. The authorities do not post number of infections on a regular basis. “We also need to understand more about the people that have been infected,” Kuppalli says, “such as […] the demographics, the clinical presentation, their immune status and about how they’ve been presenting to care. I think that type of information is important.” You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Need for China to step up fight against mpox: WHO report

World Health Organizations Director General Dr Tedros has praised India for advancing its health coverage and schemes. And during the inauguration ceremony of the G20 Health Ministers meeting in the Indian state of Gujarat The WHO chief praised India's health coverage.

WHO chief lauds India's health coverage during G20 meet

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<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US health authorities said on Friday (August 18) that there were closely monitoring a new variant of Covid. The WHO has classified the new variant BA.2.86 as the one under surveillance because of the large number of spike gene mutations it carries. Till now, the variant has been detected in the US, Israel, Denmark, and the United Kingdom (UK).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed it was monitoring the variant.</p>

<h2><strong>Only 4 known sequences of the variant: WHO</strong></h2>

<p>According to WHO, there are only four known sequences of the BA.2.86, and the United Nations health agency pointed out that the potential impact of the variant's mutations is presently unknown and undergoing careful assessment.</p>

<p>The WHO is monitoring upwards of 10 variants and their descent lineages. On Thursday, the WHO said that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries.</p>

<h2><strong>UK detects first case of the variant</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the UK detected the first case of BA.2.86 in a person with no recent travel history. In a statement, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said, "There is currently one confirmed case in the UK in an individual with no recent travel history, which suggests a degree of community transmission within the UK."</p>

<p>"The newly identified variant has a high number of mutations and is genomically distant from both its likely ancestor, BA.2, and from currently circulating XBB-derived variants," the statement added. The UKHSA designated the variant as V-23AUG-01 for monitoring.</p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US health authorities said on Friday (August 18) that there were closely monitoring a new variant of Covid. The WHO has classified the new variant BA.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US health authorities said on Friday (August 18) that there were closely monitoring a new variant of Covid. The WHO has classified the new variant BA.2.86 as the one under surveillance because of the large number of spike gene mutations it carries. Till now, the variant has been detected in the US, Israel, Denmark, and the United Kingdom (UK). Sharing a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed it was monitoring the variant. Only 4 known sequences of the variant: WHO According to WHO, there are only four known sequences of the BA.2.86, and the United Nations health agency pointed out that the potential impact of the variant's mutations is presently unknown and undergoing careful assessment. The WHO is monitoring upwards of 10 variants and their descent lineages. On Thursday, the WHO said that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries. UK detects first case of the variant On Friday, the UK detected the first case of BA.2.86 in a person with no recent travel history. In a statement, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said, "There is currently one confirmed case in the UK in an individual with no recent travel history, which suggests a degree of community transmission within the UK." "The newly identified variant has a high number of mutations and is genomically distant from both its likely ancestor, BA.2, and from currently circulating XBB-derived variants," the statement added. The UKHSA designated the variant as V-23AUG-01 for monitoring. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO, US tracking new Covid variant BA.2.86; cases detected in 4 nations so far

When the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention announced new instructions on containing a disease outbreak a few weeks ago, it was difficult not to experience a sense of déjà vu regarding hazmat suits, PCR tests, quarantines, and contact tracing.

WHO: China faces fastest rise in Mpox cases

World Health Organisation is hosting its first-ever traditional medicine summit on the sidelines of the G20 Health Ministers meeting in the Indian city of Gandhinagar. The two-day summit seeks to mobilise political commitment.

WHO holds 1st traditional medicine summit, says 'traditional medicines used by millions' | Newspoint

<p>The World Health Organization opened its first summit on traditional medicine in Gandhinagar city of the western state of Gujarat&nbsp;in India on Thursday, with the group saying it was seeking to collect evidence and data to allow for the safe use of such treatments.</p>

<p>Traditional medicines are a "first port of call for millions of people worldwide", the UN health agency said, with the talks in India bringing together policymakers and academics&nbsp;aiming to "mobilise political commitment and evidence-based action" towards them.</p>

<p>"WHO&nbsp;is working to build the evidence and data to inform policies, standards and regulations for the safe, cost-effective and equitable use of traditional medicine",&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said as he opened the summit.</p>

<p>Traditional medicine could bridge healthcare "access gaps", but was of value only if used "appropriately, effectively, and above all, safely based on the latest scientific evidence", Tedros warned earlier.</p>

<p>But the global health body has come under fire from online critics&nbsp;who&nbsp;accused it of providing scientific validation to pseudoscience after it asked followers in a post if they had used a range of treatments, including homoeopathy and naturopathy.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;later said in a post on the social media platform X that it had heard the "concerns" and agreed its "message could have been better articulated".</p>

<p>The two-day&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Traditional Medicine Global Summit takes place alongside a meeting of G20 health ministers in the Indian city of Gandhinagar.</p>

<p>"We need to face a very important real-life fact that traditional medicines are very widely used," Nobel laureate and chair of the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Science Council Harold Varmus told the summit via video link.</p>

<p>"It is important to understand what ingredients are actually in traditional medicines, why they work in some cases... and importantly, we need to understand and identify which traditional medicines don't work".</p>

<p>The summit, set to become a regular event, follows the opening last year of a&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, also in India's Gujarat state.</p>

<h2><strong>Lack of regulatory oversight</strong></h2>

<p>While traditional medicines are widely used in some parts of the world, they also face fierce criticism.</p>

<p>The UN health agency defines traditional medicine as the knowledge, skills and practices used over time to maintain health and prevent, diagnose and treat physical and mental illness.</p>

<p>But many traditional treatments have no proven scientific value and conservationists say the industry drives a rampant trade in endangered animals -- including tigers, rhinos and pangolins -- threatening the existence of entire species.</p>

<p>Use of homemade remedies soared during the Covid-19 pandemic, including a green herbal drink based on Artemisia that was promoted by Madagascar's president as a cure.</p>

<p>The plant has a proven efficacy in malaria treatment, but its use to combat Covid was widely scorned by many doctors.</p>

<p>In China, traditional medicine has a distinguished history, but top European medical bodies have previously demanded it be subject to the same regulatory oversight as conventional medical methods.</p>

<p>"Advancing science on traditional medicine should be held to the same rigorous standards as in other fields of health,"&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;research chief John Reeder said in a statement.</p>

<p>Of the&nbsp;WHO's 194 member states, 170 acknowledged their use of traditional and complementary medicine since 2018, but only 124 reported having laws or regulations for the use of herbal medicines -- while only half had a national policy on such methods and medicines.</p>

<p>"Natural doesn't always mean safe, and centuries of use are not a guarantee of efficacy; therefore, scientific method and process must be applied to provide the rigorous evidence required," the&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>About 40 per cent of approved pharmaceutical products currently in use derive from a "natural product basis", according to the&nbsp;WHO, which cited "landmark drugs" that derive from traditional medicine, including aspirin, drawing on formulations using willow tree bark.</p>


The World Health Organization opened its first summit on traditional medicine in Gandhinagar city of the western state of Gujarat in India on Thursday, with the group saying it was seeking to collect evidence and data to allow for the safe use of such treatments.

The World Health Organization opened its first summit on traditional medicine in Gandhinagar city of the western state of Gujarat in India on Thursday, with the group saying it was seeking to collect evidence and data to allow for the safe use of such treatments. Traditional medicines are a "first port of call for millions of people worldwide", the UN health agency said, with the talks in India bringing together policymakers and academics aiming to "mobilise political commitment and evidence-based action" towards them. "WHO is working to build the evidence and data to inform policies, standards and regulations for the safe, cost-effective and equitable use of traditional medicine", WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said as he opened the summit. Traditional medicine could bridge healthcare "access gaps", but was of value only if used "appropriately, effectively, and above all, safely based on the latest scientific evidence", Tedros warned earlier. But the global health body has come under fire from online critics who accused it of providing scientific validation to pseudoscience after it asked followers in a post if they had used a range of treatments, including homoeopathy and naturopathy. The WHO later said in a post on the social media platform X that it had heard the "concerns" and agreed its "message could have been better articulated". The two-day WHO Traditional Medicine Global Summit takes place alongside a meeting of G20 health ministers in the Indian city of Gandhinagar. "We need to face a very important real-life fact that traditional medicines are very widely used," Nobel laureate and chair of the WHO Science Council Harold Varmus told the summit via video link. "It is important to understand what ingredients are actually in traditional medicines, why they work in some cases... and importantly, we need to understand and identify which traditional medicines don't work". The summit, set to become a regular event, follows the opening last year of a WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, also in India's Gujarat state. Lack of regulatory oversight While traditional medicines are widely used in some parts of the world, they also face fierce criticism. The UN health agency defines traditional medicine as the knowledge, skills and practices used over time to maintain health and prevent, diagnose and treat physical and mental illness. But many traditional treatments have no proven scientific value and conservationists say the industry drives a rampant trade in endangered animals -- including tigers, rhinos and pangolins -- threatening the existence of entire species. Use of homemade remedies soared during the Covid-19 pandemic, including a green herbal drink based on Artemisia that was promoted by Madagascar's president as a cure. The plant has a proven efficacy in malaria treatment, but its use to combat Covid was widely scorned by many doctors. In China, traditional medicine has a distinguished history, but top European medical bodies have previously demanded it be subject to the same regulatory oversight as conventional medical methods. "Advancing science on traditional medicine should be held to the same rigorous standards as in other fields of health," WHO research chief John Reeder said in a statement. Of the WHO's 194 member states, 170 acknowledged their use of traditional and complementary medicine since 2018, but only 124 reported having laws or regulations for the use of herbal medicines -- while only half had a national policy on such methods and medicines. "Natural doesn't always mean safe, and centuries of use are not a guarantee of efficacy; therefore, scientific method and process must be applied to provide the rigorous evidence required," the WHO said. About 40 per cent of approved pharmaceutical products currently in use derive from a "natural product basis", according to the WHO, which cited "landmark drugs" that derive from traditional medicine, including aspirin, drawing on formulations using willow tree bark.

Traditional medicines are first port of call for millions of people worldwide, says WHO

<p>YouTube has announced a change in its guidelines on medical misinformation. The Google-owned video-sharing&nbsp;platform said in an attempt to tackle&nbsp;medical misinformation on COVID-19, vaccines, reproductive health,&nbsp;harmful substances, and more, it will remove content that&nbsp;contradicts local health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO).</p>

<p>The platform said its basic framework will aim to remove three types&nbsp;of content misinformation viz. prevention, treatment and denial.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Moving forward, YouTube will streamline dozens of our existing medical misinformation guidelines to fall under three categories – Prevention, Treatment, and Denial. These policies will apply to specific health conditions, treatments, and substances where content contradicts local health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO)," YouTube said in a blog post on August 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under denial misinformation, YouTube said, “It will remove content that disputes the existence of specific health conditions. This covers content that denies people have died from COVID-19.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-warns-covid-has-not-gone-away-609442"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Cancer treatment misinformation to be removed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The updated policy emphasises on removing cancer treatment misinformation from the platform. The company said it is its mission to&nbsp;make sure that individuals can easily find&nbsp;high-quality content from credible health sources when they turn to YouTube for cancer-related research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Starting today and ramping up in the coming weeks, we will begin removing content that promotes cancer treatments proven to be harmful or ineffective, or content that discourages viewers from seeking professional medical treatment," the blog post read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-to-block-all-content-spreading-vaccine-misinformation-416998"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;YouTube to block all content spreading vaccine misinformation</strong></a></p>

<p>Citing the example of videos claiming that&nbsp;“garlic cures cancer,” and “taking vitamin C instead of radiation therapy” works, YouTube said such videos would be removed first.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company added that it will make exceptions for personal&nbsp;testimonies or content that discusses the results of a specific medical study. However, even then, it is not guaranteed that the content will be allowed to remain.</p>

<p>If the content is still up, YouTube will have the sole discretion in 'age-gating' (limiting content for viewers till certain age)&nbsp;it or providing an&nbsp;information panel underneath such&nbsp;videos to provide additional context for viewers.</p>

<p>"We’ll continue to monitor local and global health authority guidance to make sure our policies adapt. We want our approach to be clear and transparent, so that content creators understand where the policy lines are, and viewers know they can trust the health information they find on YouTube," the company added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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YouTube has announced a change in its guidelines on medical misinformation. The Google-owned video-sharing platform said in an attempt to tackle medical misinformation on COVID-19, vaccines, reproductive health, harmful substances, and more, it will remove content that contradicts local health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO).

YouTube has announced a change in its guidelines on medical misinformation. The Google-owned video-sharing platform said in an attempt to tackle medical misinformation on COVID-19, vaccines, reproductive health, harmful substances, and more, it will remove content that contradicts local health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO). The platform said its basic framework will aim to remove three types of content misinformation viz. prevention, treatment and denial. "Moving forward, YouTube will streamline dozens of our existing medical misinformation guidelines to fall under three categories – Prevention, Treatment, and Denial. These policies will apply to specific health conditions, treatments, and substances where content contradicts local health authorities or the World Health Organization (WHO)," YouTube said in a blog post on August 15. Under denial misinformation, YouTube said, “It will remove content that disputes the existence of specific health conditions. This covers content that denies people have died from COVID-19.” Watch | WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away' × Cancer treatment misinformation to be removed The updated policy emphasises on removing cancer treatment misinformation from the platform. The company said it is its mission to make sure that individuals can easily find high-quality content from credible health sources when they turn to YouTube for cancer-related research. "Starting today and ramping up in the coming weeks, we will begin removing content that promotes cancer treatments proven to be harmful or ineffective, or content that discourages viewers from seeking professional medical treatment," the blog post read. Also read | YouTube to block all content spreading vaccine misinformation Citing the example of videos claiming that “garlic cures cancer,” and “taking vitamin C instead of radiation therapy” works, YouTube said such videos would be removed first. The company added that it will make exceptions for personal testimonies or content that discusses the results of a specific medical study. However, even then, it is not guaranteed that the content will be allowed to remain. If the content is still up, YouTube will have the sole discretion in 'age-gating' (limiting content for viewers till certain age) it or providing an information panel underneath such videos to provide additional context for viewers. "We’ll continue to monitor local and global health authority guidance to make sure our policies adapt. We want our approach to be clear and transparent, so that content creators understand where the policy lines are, and viewers know they can trust the health information they find on YouTube," the company added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

YouTube updates its medical misinformation policy, says content contradicting WHO will be removed

World Health Organization director Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is in India. Ghebreyesus is here to attend the WHO Global Summit and he received quite a welcome.

Indian PM Modi welcomes his 'good friend Tulsi Bhai'

<p>China in July recorded a five-fold increase in its number of Mpox cases. The new high was recorded even as the government ramps up efforts to contain the spread of the infectious disease.</p>

<p>As per a statement by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 96 per cent of the patients were male and reported sexual activity with another man.</p>

<h2><strong>The 'new high' and China</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Chinese CDC, while in June the cases stood at 106, in July, the count reached a high of 491. However, as per a Bloomberg report, there were no severe cases or deaths from the virus, that until recently was known as Monkeypox.</p>

<p>In late July, the agency, as per the report, asked its local branches to improve access to tests and treatment, mobilise volunteers and social organisations to educate "priority groups" — vulnerable groups including men who have sex with men — about mpox.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cyprus-to-use-human-covid-vaccine-to-save-cat-population-from-fatal-coronavirus-strain-624303">Cyprus to use human Covid vaccine to save cat population from fatal coronavirus strain</a></strong></p>

<p>The largest concentration of cases have been reported from Guangdong province and Beijing. However, last month, other areas have also reported quite a few cases. Shanghai and Western Sichuan province each reported 25 mpox cases.</p>

<h2><strong>The reason behind the rise in cases</strong></h2>

<p>China saw an acceleration in the spread of the mpox virus after the Chinese mainland reopened its borders after almost three years of stringent Zero-Covid regulations.</p>

<p>As per the report quoting Chinese CDC experts, another reason behind the high numbers could be that more people from the at-risk groups are seeking medical help as the government campaigns successfully raise awareness. Furthermore, there's continued detection of new cases among people coming to China from abroad.</p>

<h2><strong>Mpox cases and the world</strong></h2>

<p>A surge in what was earlier known as monkeypox infections was noticed in May 2022. The surge&nbsp;outside African countries where the infection has long been an endemic was noticed&nbsp;among men who have sex with men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The disease was first spotted in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo region. Since then,&nbsp;the disease spread among humans but has, for the most part, been limited to certain West and Central African nations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mpox-is-no-longer-a-global-health-emergency-who-591470">MPox is no longer a global health emergency: World Health Organization</a></strong></p>

<p>However, last May, cases of the disease began spreading rapidly around the world. Following the sudden influx of cases,&nbsp;the WHO (World Health Organization) on&nbsp;July 23, 2022, triggered a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).</p>

<p>In May of this year (2023), the WHO lowered the global alert level and mpox is no longer a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China in July recorded a five-fold increase in its number of Mpox cases. The new high was recorded even as the government ramps up efforts to contain the spread of the infectious disease.

China in July recorded a five-fold increase in its number of Mpox cases. The new high was recorded even as the government ramps up efforts to contain the spread of the infectious disease. As per a statement by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 96 per cent of the patients were male and reported sexual activity with another man. The 'new high' and China As per the Chinese CDC, while in June the cases stood at 106, in July, the count reached a high of 491. However, as per a Bloomberg report, there were no severe cases or deaths from the virus, that until recently was known as Monkeypox. In late July, the agency, as per the report, asked its local branches to improve access to tests and treatment, mobilise volunteers and social organisations to educate "priority groups" — vulnerable groups including men who have sex with men — about mpox. Also read | Cyprus to use human Covid vaccine to save cat population from fatal coronavirus strain The largest concentration of cases have been reported from Guangdong province and Beijing. However, last month, other areas have also reported quite a few cases. Shanghai and Western Sichuan province each reported 25 mpox cases. The reason behind the rise in cases China saw an acceleration in the spread of the mpox virus after the Chinese mainland reopened its borders after almost three years of stringent Zero-Covid regulations. As per the report quoting Chinese CDC experts, another reason behind the high numbers could be that more people from the at-risk groups are seeking medical help as the government campaigns successfully raise awareness. Furthermore, there's continued detection of new cases among people coming to China from abroad. Mpox cases and the world A surge in what was earlier known as monkeypox infections was noticed in May 2022. The surge outside African countries where the infection has long been an endemic was noticed among men who have sex with men. The disease was first spotted in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo region. Since then, the disease spread among humans but has, for the most part, been limited to certain West and Central African nations. Also read | MPox is no longer a global health emergency: World Health Organization However, last May, cases of the disease began spreading rapidly around the world. Following the sudden influx of cases, the WHO (World Health Organization) on July 23, 2022, triggered a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). In May of this year (2023), the WHO lowered the global alert level and mpox is no longer a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China reports a five-fold increase in mpox cases; 96% patients are male

<p>A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The variant, which is known as EG.5 or “Eris”, is connected to an Omicron subvariant called XBB.1.9.2, and has been increasing its prevalence globally, and countries like the UK, China and the United States are emerging as the most affected.</p>

<p>However, the WHO has further stated that the variant is not posing any particular threat. “Based on the available evidence, the public health risk posed by EG.5 is evaluated as low at the global level,” said the agency, stating that the risk looked to be at part with other circulating variants of interest.</p>

<p>“While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity to date,” the WHO stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-variant-eris-on-rise-in-uk-as-experts-say-country-flying-blind-on-infection-622835">Covid variant 'Eris' on rise in UK, as experts say country ‘flying blind’ on infection</a></p>

<h2><strong>Variant better at evading body's immune system: WHO&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Professor of operational research at University College London, Christina Pagel, said that although the variant has been increasing in prevalence and seems to be better at evading the body's immune system which permits it to outcompete other variants, there is a lack of evidence that it can cause more severe disease.</p>

<p>“It will probably cause a wave of more cases and all the problems that brings – [such as] more hospitalisations and Long Covid – but [there is] no reason at the moment to think [that will be] worse than previous waves this year,” she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pagel stated that the waning immunity due to previous infections or vaccinations may mean that the wave of EG.5 took longer to peak and hence, it may be larger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) last week published an update which suggested EG.5, and more specifically its subvariant EG5.1 accounts for around 15 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases in England.</p>

<p>Deputy director of UKHSA, Dr Meera Chand, said that the new variants' emergence is not unexpected. “UKHSA continues to analyse available data relating to Sars-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad. EG.5.1 was designated as a variant on 31 July 2023 due to continued growth internationally and presence in the UK, allowing us to monitor it through our routine surveillance processes," she said.</p>

<p>“Vaccination remains our best defence against future Covid-19 waves, so it is still as important as ever that people come to take up all the doses for which they are eligible as soon as possible," added Chand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: New Covid variant 'Eris' spreading across the UK</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US sees rise in EG.5 cases&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cases of new COVID-19 variant EG.5 are on the rise in the United States and are leading to around 17 per cent of the new coronavirus cases in the country in comparison to 16 per cent for the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, as per the latest estimates presented by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Professor of microbiology and immunology Dr David Ho has been carrying out tests of these variants in his lab at Columbia University to understand their resistance to the antibodies&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Both are only slightly more resistant to neutralising antibodies in the serum of infected and vaccinated persons. It basically has some more immune escape compared to the ones that were precedents in this XBB series," stated Dr Eric Topol, a cardiologist at the Scripps Translational Research Institute. "It has an advantage, which is why it's getting legs all around the world," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk.

A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk. The variant, which is known as EG.5 or “Eris”, is connected to an Omicron subvariant called XBB.1.9.2, and has been increasing its prevalence globally, and countries like the UK, China and the United States are emerging as the most affected. However, the WHO has further stated that the variant is not posing any particular threat. “Based on the available evidence, the public health risk posed by EG.5 is evaluated as low at the global level,” said the agency, stating that the risk looked to be at part with other circulating variants of interest. “While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity to date,” the WHO stated. ALSO READ | Covid variant 'Eris' on rise in UK, as experts say country ‘flying blind’ on infection Variant better at evading body's immune system: WHO Professor of operational research at University College London, Christina Pagel, said that although the variant has been increasing in prevalence and seems to be better at evading the body's immune system which permits it to outcompete other variants, there is a lack of evidence that it can cause more severe disease. “It will probably cause a wave of more cases and all the problems that brings – [such as] more hospitalisations and Long Covid – but [there is] no reason at the moment to think [that will be] worse than previous waves this year,” she stated. Pagel stated that the waning immunity due to previous infections or vaccinations may mean that the wave of EG.5 took longer to peak and hence, it may be larger. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) last week published an update which suggested EG.5, and more specifically its subvariant EG5.1 accounts for around 15 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases in England. Deputy director of UKHSA, Dr Meera Chand, said that the new variants' emergence is not unexpected. “UKHSA continues to analyse available data relating to Sars-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad. EG.5.1 was designated as a variant on 31 July 2023 due to continued growth internationally and presence in the UK, allowing us to monitor it through our routine surveillance processes," she said. “Vaccination remains our best defence against future Covid-19 waves, so it is still as important as ever that people come to take up all the doses for which they are eligible as soon as possible," added Chand. WATCH | Gravitas: New Covid variant 'Eris' spreading across the UK US sees rise in EG.5 cases Cases of new COVID-19 variant EG.5 are on the rise in the United States and are leading to around 17 per cent of the new coronavirus cases in the country in comparison to 16 per cent for the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, as per the latest estimates presented by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, reported CNN. Professor of microbiology and immunology Dr David Ho has been carrying out tests of these variants in his lab at Columbia University to understand their resistance to the antibodies "Both are only slightly more resistant to neutralising antibodies in the serum of infected and vaccinated persons. It basically has some more immune escape compared to the ones that were precedents in this XBB series," stated Dr Eric Topol, a cardiologist at the Scripps Translational Research Institute. "It has an advantage, which is why it's getting legs all around the world," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WHO designates new Covid strain ‘Eris’ as 'variant of interest' amid global surge in cases

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an alert over an India-made cough syrup that was sold in Iraq after it was found contaminated and deemed “not safe for use”.</p>

<p>The alert came after a sample of the common cold syrup, ‘Cold Out’, was obtained from a location in Iraq and submitted for laboratory analysis.</p>

<p>"The sample was found to contain unacceptable amounts of diethylene glycol (0.25%) and ethylene glycol (2.1%) as contaminants. The acceptable safety limit for both ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol is no more than 0.10%," the health body said.</p>

<p>The WHO said that diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are toxic to humans when consumed and can prove fatal.</p>

<p>The syrup was manufactured by Fourrts (India) Laboratories Pvt. Ltd, a Chennai-based plant, and the product is stated to be manufactured for Dabilife Pharma Pvt. Ltd. India, the WHO said in a statement.</p>

<p>"To date, the stated manufacturer and the marketer have not provided guarantees to WHO on the safety and quality of the product," the alert said.</p>

<p>It said that this syrup may have marketing authorisations in other countries or regions.</p>

<h2><strong>Toxic chemical&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"The substandard batch of the product is unsafe and its use, especially in children, may result in serious injury or death," the alert warned.</p>

<p>"Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state and acute kidney injury which may lead to death," the WHO said.</p>

<p>The Iraqi officials have not yet found any deaths related to poisonous medications, but last week the Ministry of Health&nbsp;said that the medicine failed separate tests conducted by Iraqi authorities and that products circulating in the market were being confiscated.</p>

<h2><strong>Fifth time&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is the fifth time that contaminated syrups have been tied to an Indian manufacturer.</p>

<p>Cases of Indian-made tainted cold syrups have been reported in Indonesia,&nbsp;Gambia, Uzbekistan and&nbsp;Cameroon, and have killed about 300 children in the past year, reports Bloomberg.</p>

<p>The Indian manufacturer Marion Biotech, which had exported the syrups to Uzbekistan, had its drug license cancelled by the Uttar Pradesh government.</p>

<p>The company involved in Gambia, Maiden Pharmaceuticals, denied that its drugs were responsible for the deaths in the country. Later, tests by an Indian government laboratory found no toxins in the syrup.</p>

<p>According to Reuters, DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India) chief VG Somani wrote to WHO, saying the samples of Maiden's syrup had not been contaminated with ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an alert over an India-made cough syrup that was sold in Iraq after it was found contaminated and deemed “not safe for use”.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an alert over an India-made cough syrup that was sold in Iraq after it was found contaminated and deemed “not safe for use”. The alert came after a sample of the common cold syrup, ‘Cold Out’, was obtained from a location in Iraq and submitted for laboratory analysis. "The sample was found to contain unacceptable amounts of diethylene glycol (0.25%) and ethylene glycol (2.1%) as contaminants. The acceptable safety limit for both ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol is no more than 0.10%," the health body said. The WHO said that diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are toxic to humans when consumed and can prove fatal. The syrup was manufactured by Fourrts (India) Laboratories Pvt. Ltd, a Chennai-based plant, and the product is stated to be manufactured for Dabilife Pharma Pvt. Ltd. India, the WHO said in a statement. "To date, the stated manufacturer and the marketer have not provided guarantees to WHO on the safety and quality of the product," the alert said. It said that this syrup may have marketing authorisations in other countries or regions. Toxic chemical "The substandard batch of the product is unsafe and its use, especially in children, may result in serious injury or death," the alert warned. "Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state and acute kidney injury which may lead to death," the WHO said. The Iraqi officials have not yet found any deaths related to poisonous medications, but last week the Ministry of Health said that the medicine failed separate tests conducted by Iraqi authorities and that products circulating in the market were being confiscated. Fifth time This is the fifth time that contaminated syrups have been tied to an Indian manufacturer. Cases of Indian-made tainted cold syrups have been reported in Indonesia, Gambia, Uzbekistan and Cameroon, and have killed about 300 children in the past year, reports Bloomberg. The Indian manufacturer Marion Biotech, which had exported the syrups to Uzbekistan, had its drug license cancelled by the Uttar Pradesh government. The company involved in Gambia, Maiden Pharmaceuticals, denied that its drugs were responsible for the deaths in the country. Later, tests by an Indian government laboratory found no toxins in the syrup. According to Reuters, DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India) chief VG Somani wrote to WHO, saying the samples of Maiden's syrup had not been contaminated with ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WHO issues alert over ‘contaminated’ India-made cough syrup sold in Iraq  

<p>As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temperatures-reach-new-highs-world-witnesses-record-breaking-heat-616853">many speculated</a>, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From record-breaking temperatures in the United States to life-threatening wildfires burning parts of Europe, we only have ourselves (and our greenhouse gas emissions) to blame as July 2023 may be the hottest month for the planet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Record-breaking temperatures ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change</strong></h2>

<p>A new rapid analysis of the scorching temperatures was published by an international team of scientists at the World Weather Attribution which found that the heatwaves in parts of Europe and North America would have been impossible if it was not for human-induced climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“European and North American temperatures would have been virtually impossible without the effects of climate change,” Izidine Pinto of the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, one of the authors, told journalists, on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research also noted that climate change has also caused recent record-setting heatwaves in China, which are to become 50 times “more likely,” when compared to previous years. This comes as the country witnessed its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-records-522-celsius-temperature-in-arid-northwest-616575">record-setting</a> temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius in Sanbao township in Xinjiang’s Turpan Depression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists also noted how the extreme weather events witnessed in July across the world would have been “extremely rare” if it was not for climate change.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rise in greenhouse gas concentrations made the European heatwave 2.5 degrees Celsius hotter than it would have been. They also helped worsen North American heatwaves by two degrees Celsius and also in China by one degree Celsius.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This comes nearly a week after NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt told reporters how July 2023 is not only on track to become the hottest month since records began but also the hottest in “hundreds, if not thousands, of years.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Situation to worsen</strong></h2>

<p>“The role of climate change is absolutely overwhelming,” said climate scientist Friederike Otto, of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The weather data collected was used to run through computer model simulations to compare today’s climate with that of the past years. Otto and her colleagues at the WWA said they focused on periods when “the heat was most dangerous in each region.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Otto, in the past, it would have been “basically impossible” to witness these record-breaking temperatures and heatwaves happening around the same time. But at the same time, “It’s not surprising from a climatological point of view, that these events are happening at the same time,” said the researcher.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The findings were published using peer-reviewed methods but the study has yet to undergo the formal academic review process.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Researchers from Imperial College London, the Dutch National Weather Service and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, estimated that these severe heatwaves can now be expected once every 15 years in North America, every decade in southern Europe and every five years in China.</p>

<p>Scientists also expect these prolonged periods of extreme heat would be as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extreme-heatwaves-to-continue-through-august-wmo-adviser-says-618150">frequent</a> as every two to five years if the global temperatures rise over two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is expected to happen around 30 years from now unless countries fulfil their Paris Agreement and cut down emissions. Currently, the average temperatures are estimated to have risen by over 1.1 degrees Celsius.</p>

<h2><strong>About the cause</strong></h2>

<p>These effects have largely been attributed to the generation of greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels. “As long as we keep burning fossil fuels we will see more and more of these extremes,” Otto. She added, “I don’t think there’s any stronger evidence that any science has ever presented for a scientific question.”</p>

<p>Scientists also noted that while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-declares-onset-of-el-nino-says-itll-break-temperature-records-611836">El Nino weather pattern</a> may have contributed to the additional heat in some regions, these extreme events cannot solely be attributed to the phenomenon, as the weather pattern is not expected to strengthen until later on in the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They added that these heatwaves will become increasingly likely if measures to slash emissions are not taken.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact and calls for urgent measures</strong></h2>

<p>Recent record-breaking temperatures have also directly impacted human health, caused large-scale crop damage and livestock losses, said the scientists. These adverse effects of heatwaves seen in North America, southern Europe and China have accelerated the need for heat preparedness, they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A study published, earlier this month, in the journal Nature Medicine found that Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain saw the highest number of deaths, according to population size, when Europe was hit by the sweltering heatwaves last summer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also estimated that more than 61,600 people may have died from heat-related causes across 35 European countries between late May to early September 2022, suggesting that the countries’ heat preparedness efforts fell fatally short.</p>

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) said they are particularly concerned about people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and asthma during the heatwaves in Europe and the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wmo-warns-about-risk-of-heart-attacks-deaths-amid-intensifying-heatwaves-617213">World Meteorological Organization (WMO)</a> issued a warning about a high risk of deaths due to the extreme weather and said such events will only intensify and the world needs to be better prepared for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While we are focusing on the maximum day temperatures, it is the high overnight minimum temperatures that we should be worried about as they have the “biggest health risks”, particularly for vulnerable populations, said WMO senior extreme heat advisor, John Nairn, on July 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what many speculated, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change.

As soaring temperatures continue to bake swathes of North America and Europe this month, researchers, on Tuesday (July 25) confirm what many speculated, that this weather phenomenon would be “virtually impossible” without human-induced climate change. From record-breaking temperatures in the United States to life-threatening wildfires burning parts of Europe, we only have ourselves (and our greenhouse gas emissions) to blame as July 2023 may be the hottest month for the planet. Record-breaking temperatures ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change A new rapid analysis of the scorching temperatures was published by an international team of scientists at the World Weather Attribution which found that the heatwaves in parts of Europe and North America would have been impossible if it was not for human-induced climate change. “European and North American temperatures would have been virtually impossible without the effects of climate change,” Izidine Pinto of the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, one of the authors, told journalists, on Tuesday. The research also noted that climate change has also caused recent record-setting heatwaves in China, which are to become 50 times “more likely,” when compared to previous years. This comes as the country witnessed its record-setting temperature of 52.2 degrees Celsius in Sanbao township in Xinjiang’s Turpan Depression. Scientists also noted how the extreme weather events witnessed in July across the world would have been “extremely rare” if it was not for climate change. The rise in greenhouse gas concentrations made the European heatwave 2.5 degrees Celsius hotter than it would have been. They also helped worsen North American heatwaves by two degrees Celsius and also in China by one degree Celsius. This comes nearly a week after NASA climatologist Gavin Schmidt told reporters how July 2023 is not only on track to become the hottest month since records began but also the hottest in “hundreds, if not thousands, of years.” Situation to worsen “The role of climate change is absolutely overwhelming,” said climate scientist Friederike Otto, of the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London. The weather data collected was used to run through computer model simulations to compare today’s climate with that of the past years. Otto and her colleagues at the WWA said they focused on periods when “the heat was most dangerous in each region.” According to Otto, in the past, it would have been “basically impossible” to witness these record-breaking temperatures and heatwaves happening around the same time. But at the same time, “It’s not surprising from a climatological point of view, that these events are happening at the same time,” said the researcher. The findings were published using peer-reviewed methods but the study has yet to undergo the formal academic review process. Researchers from Imperial College London, the Dutch National Weather Service and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, estimated that these severe heatwaves can now be expected once every 15 years in North America, every decade in southern Europe and every five years in China. Scientists also expect these prolonged periods of extreme heat would be as frequent as every two to five years if the global temperatures rise over two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This is expected to happen around 30 years from now unless countries fulfil their Paris Agreement and cut down emissions. Currently, the average temperatures are estimated to have risen by over 1.1 degrees Celsius. About the cause These effects have largely been attributed to the generation of greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels. “As long as we keep burning fossil fuels we will see more and more of these extremes,” Otto. She added, “I don’t think there’s any stronger evidence that any science has ever presented for a scientific question.” Scientists also noted that while the El Nino weather pattern may have contributed to the additional heat in some regions, these extreme events cannot solely be attributed to the phenomenon, as the weather pattern is not expected to strengthen until later on in the year. They added that these heatwaves will become increasingly likely if measures to slash emissions are not taken. Impact and calls for urgent measures Recent record-breaking temperatures have also directly impacted human health, caused large-scale crop damage and livestock losses, said the scientists. These adverse effects of heatwaves seen in North America, southern Europe and China have accelerated the need for heat preparedness, they added. A study published, earlier this month, in the journal Nature Medicine found that Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain saw the highest number of deaths, according to population size, when Europe was hit by the sweltering heatwaves last summer. It also estimated that more than 61,600 people may have died from heat-related causes across 35 European countries between late May to early September 2022, suggesting that the countries’ heat preparedness efforts fell fatally short. The World Health Organization (WHO) said they are particularly concerned about people with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and asthma during the heatwaves in Europe and the US. Last week, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) issued a warning about a high risk of deaths due to the extreme weather and said such events will only intensify and the world needs to be better prepared for them. While we are focusing on the maximum day temperatures, it is the high overnight minimum temperatures that we should be worried about as they have the “biggest health risks”, particularly for vulnerable populations, said WMO senior extreme heat advisor, John Nairn, on July 18. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | Why deadly heatwaves across Europe, US ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday (July 24) confirmed a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in a 28-year-old male from Al Ain City in Abu Dhabi after being notified by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government, earlier this month (July 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The patient had visited a private medical centre multiple times between June 3 and 7, complaining of vomiting, right flank pain and dysuria (pain when passing urine).&nbsp;</p>

<p>By 13 June, he was in critical condition and referred to an intensive care unit (ICU) at a specialised government tertiary hospital where he was put on mechanical ventilation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite having no history or direct or indirect contact with dromedaries, goats, or sheep, the man's nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for MERS-CoV in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis on 23 June.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As soon as the test result returned positive, the UAE health officials identified all 108 contacts of the patient and monitored them for 14 days&nbsp;from the last date of exposure to the MERS-CoV patient. Fortunately, no secondary case was identified.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the patient's case, the last&nbsp;MERS-CoV infection was reported in November 2021 in the UAE. Meanwhile, the first case in the Gulf country was reported on July 2013. Since then, 94 cases have been reported with 12 associated deaths, leading to a 13 per cent Case Fatality Ratio (CFR).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the case was reported, the Abu Dhabi&nbsp;Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has updated its definition of the disease, strengthened surveillance activities to identify possible cases and conducted several workshops.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-humans-bring-covid-19-to-wuhan-market-a-chinese-scientist-thinks-so-580741"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Did humans bring Covid-19 to Wuhan market? A Chinese scientist claims so</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What is&nbsp;MERS?</strong></h2>

<p>In layman's terms,&nbsp;Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a respiratory infection of humans and&nbsp;dromedaries&nbsp;caused by a novel coronavirus called&nbsp;the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). It was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause&nbsp;diseases ranging from the common cold to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Akin to COVID-19, a person having underlying&nbsp;chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, renal failure, chronic lung disease and weak immune system exhibits severe symptoms of the virus. They are at increased fatality risk than the healthy population.</p>

<p>"Clinical severity may be related to MERS-CoV's ability to infect a broad range of cells with DPP4 expression, evade the host innate immune response, and induce cytokine dysregulation," Clinical Microbiology Reviews (CMR) noted in its assessment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-causes-asymptomatic-covid-19-infection-617690"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;What causes asymptomatic COVID-19 infection?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What are the origins of the virus?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite being discovered over a decade ago, scientists are unsure about the origins of the zoonotic virus. However, according to different studies involving research&nbsp;of the virus genomes, MERS-Cov could have originated in bats and was transmitted to camels sometime in the distant past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Human-to-human transmission is possible, but only a few such transmissions have been found among family members living in the same household. In health care settings, however, human-to-human transmission appears to be more frequent," WHO states in its report.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are the symptoms?</strong></h2>

<p>WHO states that typical MERS symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Pneumonia is common, but not always present. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea, have also been reported.</p>

<p>If the illness persists, it can lead to respiratory failure which may necessitate the use of mechanical ventilation and immediate access to an intensive care unit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-the-experts-saying-about-the-highly-transmissible-xbb-covid-variant-530115"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant?</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How is it treated?</strong></h2>

<p>Cutting a long story short, there is no specific treatment available for the virus. Unlike SARS which has been actively researched and has several vaccines, including mRNA-based, MERS-CoV does not have a vaccine. Most of the times, the treatment is supportive and engineered based on the patient's medical condition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Supportive treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and dialysis is often required in patients with organ failure. Antivirals with potent&nbsp;<i>in vitro</i>&nbsp;activities include neutralising monoclonal antibodies, antiviral peptides, interferons, mycophenolic acid, and lopinavir," CMR stated in a study.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What precautions to take?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>As a thumb rule, one should avoid visiting places with animals and that includes farms, markets, and barns, especially where&nbsp;dromedary camels&nbsp;are present.</p>

<p>However, if one does end up being present in such places, one should practice general hygiene measures, including thorough hand washing, before and after touching animals. Contact with sick animals should be avoided at all costs.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>How many cases have been recorded?</h2>

<p>MERS-CoV cases have been detected in 27 countries since 2012, according to WHO figures. During this time, a total of 2,605 cases and 936 associated deaths have been reported, the data showed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WHO estimates that 35 per cent of patients with MERS-CoV may have died since its discovery. After the discovery of the case in UAE where the patient did not have any co-morbidities, the WHO has notified member states to maintain strong surveillance of the virus for any potential epidemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday (July 24) confirmed a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in a 28-year-old male from Al Ain City in Abu Dhabi after being notified by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government, earlier this month (July 10).

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday (July 24) confirmed a case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in a 28-year-old male from Al Ain City in Abu Dhabi after being notified by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government, earlier this month (July 10). The patient had visited a private medical centre multiple times between June 3 and 7, complaining of vomiting, right flank pain and dysuria (pain when passing urine). By 13 June, he was in critical condition and referred to an intensive care unit (ICU) at a specialised government tertiary hospital where he was put on mechanical ventilation. Despite having no history or direct or indirect contact with dromedaries, goats, or sheep, the man's nasopharyngeal swab tested positive for MERS-CoV in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis on 23 June. As soon as the test result returned positive, the UAE health officials identified all 108 contacts of the patient and monitored them for 14 days from the last date of exposure to the MERS-CoV patient. Fortunately, no secondary case was identified. Prior to the patient's case, the last MERS-CoV infection was reported in November 2021 in the UAE. Meanwhile, the first case in the Gulf country was reported on July 2013. Since then, 94 cases have been reported with 12 associated deaths, leading to a 13 per cent Case Fatality Ratio (CFR). Since the case was reported, the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) has updated its definition of the disease, strengthened surveillance activities to identify possible cases and conducted several workshops. Also read | Did humans bring Covid-19 to Wuhan market? A Chinese scientist claims so What is MERS? In layman's terms, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is a respiratory infection of humans and dromedaries caused by a novel coronavirus called the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). It was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Notably, coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause diseases ranging from the common cold to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Akin to COVID-19, a person having underlying chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, renal failure, chronic lung disease and weak immune system exhibits severe symptoms of the virus. They are at increased fatality risk than the healthy population. "Clinical severity may be related to MERS-CoV's ability to infect a broad range of cells with DPP4 expression, evade the host innate immune response, and induce cytokine dysregulation," Clinical Microbiology Reviews (CMR) noted in its assessment. Watch | What causes asymptomatic COVID-19 infection? × What are the origins of the virus? Despite being discovered over a decade ago, scientists are unsure about the origins of the zoonotic virus. However, according to different studies involving research of the virus genomes, MERS-Cov could have originated in bats and was transmitted to camels sometime in the distant past. "Human-to-human transmission is possible, but only a few such transmissions have been found among family members living in the same household. In health care settings, however, human-to-human transmission appears to be more frequent," WHO states in its report. What are the symptoms? WHO states that typical MERS symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Pneumonia is common, but not always present. Gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhoea, have also been reported. If the illness persists, it can lead to respiratory failure which may necessitate the use of mechanical ventilation and immediate access to an intensive care unit. Also read | What are the experts saying about the highly transmissible XBB Covid variant? How is it treated? Cutting a long story short, there is no specific treatment available for the virus. Unlike SARS which has been actively researched and has several vaccines, including mRNA-based, MERS-CoV does not have a vaccine. Most of the times, the treatment is supportive and engineered based on the patient's medical condition. "Supportive treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and dialysis is often required in patients with organ failure. Antivirals with potent in vitro activities include neutralising monoclonal antibodies, antiviral peptides, interferons, mycophenolic acid, and lopinavir," CMR stated in a study. What precautions to take? As a thumb rule, one should avoid visiting places with animals and that includes farms, markets, and barns, especially where dromedary camels are present. However, if one does end up being present in such places, one should practice general hygiene measures, including thorough hand washing, before and after touching animals. Contact with sick animals should be avoided at all costs. How many cases have been recorded? MERS-CoV cases have been detected in 27 countries since 2012, according to WHO figures. During this time, a total of 2,605 cases and 936 associated deaths have been reported, the data showed. WHO estimates that 35 per cent of patients with MERS-CoV may have died since its discovery. After the discovery of the case in UAE where the patient did not have any co-morbidities, the WHO has notified member states to maintain strong surveillance of the virus for any potential epidemic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | What is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus infection detected in a UAE man?

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Poland has become the first country to report a high number of cats infected with bird flu across a wide area. Despite this development, the risk of human infection remains low. Polish health authorities informed the WHO about a month ago regarding unusual cat deaths occurring throughout the country, reported AFP news agency.</p>

<p>Following their investigation, it was found that 29 cats tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus. A total of 46 cats and one captive caracal were tested for the virus. Among the infected animals, 14 were euthanized, and 11 others died. The most recent death was reported on June 30.</p>

<h2><strong>Source of infection unknown</strong></h2>

<p>The exact source of the cats' exposure to the virus remains unknown&nbsp;and a probe is on.</p>

<p>"The source of the exposure of cats to the virus is currently unknown and epizootic investigations are ongoing," WHO said in a statement.</p>

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Europe has been experiencing its worst-ever outbreak of bird flu since late 2021, with severe outbreaks also reported in North and South America.</p>

<p>This has led to the culling of tens of millions of poultry worldwide, with many carrying the H5N1 strain of the virus, which was first identified in 1996. Recently, there has been a concerning increase in infections among mammals.</p>

<h2><strong>Unprecedented number of infected cats</strong></h2>

<p>While sporadic cases of H5N1 infections in cats have been reported before, the current situation in Poland is the first time such a&nbsp;high number of infected cats has been observed over a wide geographical area within a single country.</p>

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<p>As of July 12, no humans who had contact with the infected cats reported any symptoms of bird flu. The WHO has completed the surveillance period for all contacts.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>The risk of human infection following exposure to infected cats has been assessed as low for the general population in Poland. However, for individuals such as cat owners, veterinarians, and others who are regularly exposed to H5N1-infected cats without using personal protective equipment, the risk is considered low to moderate.</p>

<h2>Human bird flu cases</h2>

<p>Human infections of bird flu are rare but can cause severe disease with a high mortality rate when they occur. Most cases are the result of direct or indirect exposure to infected live or dead poultry or contaminated environments. The WHO has received 12 reports of human H5N1 cases worldwide since 2020, with four being severe cases and eight mild or asymptomatic cases.</p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Poland has become the first country to report a high number of cats infected with bird flu across a wide area.

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Poland has become the first country to report a high number of cats infected with bird flu across a wide area. Despite this development, the risk of human infection remains low. Polish health authorities informed the WHO about a month ago regarding unusual cat deaths occurring throughout the country, reported AFP news agency. Following their investigation, it was found that 29 cats tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus. A total of 46 cats and one captive caracal were tested for the virus. Among the infected animals, 14 were euthanized, and 11 others died. The most recent death was reported on June 30. Source of infection unknown The exact source of the cats' exposure to the virus remains unknown and a probe is on. "The source of the exposure of cats to the virus is currently unknown and epizootic investigations are ongoing," WHO said in a statement. Also Read | Entrance to underworld? Mysterious tunnels, chambers found beneath ancient church in Mexico Europe has been experiencing its worst-ever outbreak of bird flu since late 2021, with severe outbreaks also reported in North and South America. This has led to the culling of tens of millions of poultry worldwide, with many carrying the H5N1 strain of the virus, which was first identified in 1996. Recently, there has been a concerning increase in infections among mammals. Unprecedented number of infected cats While sporadic cases of H5N1 infections in cats have been reported before, the current situation in Poland is the first time such a high number of infected cats has been observed over a wide geographical area within a single country. Also Read | Smoke from Canadian wildfires places 60 million US residents under air quality alerts As of July 12, no humans who had contact with the infected cats reported any symptoms of bird flu. The WHO has completed the surveillance period for all contacts. Watch | Attack on Crimean Bridge: At least 2 killed in Kerch blasts, Moscow blames Kyiv × The risk of human infection following exposure to infected cats has been assessed as low for the general population in Poland. However, for individuals such as cat owners, veterinarians, and others who are regularly exposed to H5N1-infected cats without using personal protective equipment, the risk is considered low to moderate. Human bird flu cases Human infections of bird flu are rare but can cause severe disease with a high mortality rate when they occur. Most cases are the result of direct or indirect exposure to infected live or dead poultry or contaminated environments. The WHO has received 12 reports of human H5N1 cases worldwide since 2020, with four being severe cases and eight mild or asymptomatic cases. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Unusual cat deaths' in Poland attributed to bird flu: WHO

<p>The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a recommendation for cat and dog owners to keep their pets indoors in response to a surge in avian influenza cases worldwide. This guidance comes after 24 cats tested positive for the virus in Poland.</p>

<h2><strong>EFSA recommendation</strong></h2>

<p>To prevent exposure, EFSA has advised pet owners to avoid contact between domestic cats, dogs, and other carnivorous pets with dead or sick animals.</p>

<p>"Possible measures are keeping dogs on a leash, and confining cats indoors in areas where extensive circulation of HPAI [highly pathogenic avian influenza] viruses in wild birds has been confirmed," it said in a bulletin.</p>

<p>The EFSA's recommendation serves as a precautionary measure to protect pets from avian influenza and mitigate the risk of further transmission.</p>

<p>Italy has reported infections in five dogs and one cat in recent weeks, while Poland has witnessed 24 cases in domestic cats across various regions since June 10.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/success-is-possible-unaids-insists-end-of-aids-is-still-possible-by-2030-urges-global-action-615163">'Success is possible': UNAIDS insists 'end of AIDS' is still possible by 2030, urges global action</a></strong></p>

<p>The exact source of contamination has not yet been determined, but one hypothesis is that the infected animals may have consumed raw poultry meat contaminated with the virus.</p>

<h2><strong>A 'bird flu' vaccine for birds</strong></h2>

<p>In response to the escalating cases of bird flu, in April, the United States begun testing several vaccine candidates for potential use in birds.</p>

<p>As per AFP, France aims to commence poultry vaccination as early as autumn this year.</p>

<p>However, Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, cautioned that vaccination alone is not a definitive solution as the virus continually evolves. In his words, vaccinating poultry was not a "a silver bullet because the virus changes constantly."</p>

<h2><strong>Bird flu and humans</strong></h2>

<p>Avian influenza, caused by the H5N1 virus, had previously been mostly limited to seasonal outbreaks since its emergence in 1996. However, in mid-2021, a significant change occurred, making the group of viruses much more infectious, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) collaborating centre that studies influenza in animals.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-warning-from-who-bird-flu-poses-increased-risk-of-adapting-to-humans-614852">Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans</a></strong></p>

<p>Although rare, humans can contract the avian influenza virus, typically after close contact with infected birds. In recent times, the virus has also been detected in an increasing number of mammals.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the WHO also issued a warning that the recent surge in bird flu outbreaks among mammals could facilitate the transmission of the virus to humans.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a recommendation for cat and dog owners to keep their pets indoors in response to a surge in avian influenza cases worldwide.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a recommendation for cat and dog owners to keep their pets indoors in response to a surge in avian influenza cases worldwide. This guidance comes after 24 cats tested positive for the virus in Poland. EFSA recommendation To prevent exposure, EFSA has advised pet owners to avoid contact between domestic cats, dogs, and other carnivorous pets with dead or sick animals. "Possible measures are keeping dogs on a leash, and confining cats indoors in areas where extensive circulation of HPAI [highly pathogenic avian influenza] viruses in wild birds has been confirmed," it said in a bulletin. The EFSA's recommendation serves as a precautionary measure to protect pets from avian influenza and mitigate the risk of further transmission. Italy has reported infections in five dogs and one cat in recent weeks, while Poland has witnessed 24 cases in domestic cats across various regions since June 10. Also read | 'Success is possible': UNAIDS insists 'end of AIDS' is still possible by 2030, urges global action The exact source of contamination has not yet been determined, but one hypothesis is that the infected animals may have consumed raw poultry meat contaminated with the virus. A 'bird flu' vaccine for birds In response to the escalating cases of bird flu, in April, the United States begun testing several vaccine candidates for potential use in birds. As per AFP, France aims to commence poultry vaccination as early as autumn this year. However, Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, cautioned that vaccination alone is not a definitive solution as the virus continually evolves. In his words, vaccinating poultry was not a "a silver bullet because the virus changes constantly." Bird flu and humans Avian influenza, caused by the H5N1 virus, had previously been mostly limited to seasonal outbreaks since its emergence in 1996. However, in mid-2021, a significant change occurred, making the group of viruses much more infectious, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) collaborating centre that studies influenza in animals. Also read | Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans Although rare, humans can contract the avian influenza virus, typically after close contact with infected birds. In recent times, the virus has also been detected in an increasing number of mammals. On Wednesday, the WHO also issued a warning that the recent surge in bird flu outbreaks among mammals could facilitate the transmission of the virus to humans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU agency urges pet owners to keep cats and dogs indoors amid rising cases of avian influenza

<p>The World Health Organization has said that aspartame, the non-sugar sweetener used in many soft drinks, is classified as "possibly" carcinogenic to humans. The WHO statement stated that the classification is done based on limited evidence for carcinogenicity in humans, specifically for hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have released assessments regarding the health impacts of the non-sugar sweetener aspartame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aspartame is an artificial sweetener widely used in various food and beverage products since the 1980s.</p>

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<p>"IARC classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) on the basis of limited evidence for cancer in humans (specifically, for hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a type of liver cancer). There was also limited evidence for cancer in experimental animals and limited evidence related to the possible mechanisms for causing cancer," the WHO statement read.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"JECFA’s risk assessments determine the probability of a specific type of harm, i.e. cancer, to occur under certain conditions and levels of exposure," WHO added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No reason to change acceptable daily intake</strong></h2>

<p>JECFA concluded that the available data did not provide sufficient reason to change the previously established acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0-40 mg/kg body weight for aspartame.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The committee therefore reaffirmed that it is safe for a person to consume within this limit per day. For example, with a can of diet soft drink containing 200 or 300 mg of aspartame, an adult weighing 70kg would need to consume more than 9–14 cans per day to exceed the acceptable daily intake, assuming no other intake from other food sources," the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>"IARC classifications reflect the strength of scientific evidence as to whether an agent can cause cancer in humans, but they do not reflect the risk of developing cancer at a given exposure level," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Need for further research</strong></h2>

<p>Dr Moez Sanaa, WHO’s Head of the Standards and Scientific Advice on Food and Nutrition Unit, said: “We need better studies with longer follow-up and repeated dietary questionnaires in existing cohorts. We need randomized controlled trials, including studies of mechanistic pathways relevant to insulin regulation, metabolic syndrome and diabetes, particularly as related to carcinogenicity.”</p>

<p>IARC and WHO will continue to monitor new evidence and encourage independent research groups to conduct further studies on the potential association between aspartame exposure and consumer health effects.&nbsp;</p>

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The World Health Organization has said that aspartame, the non-sugar sweetener used in many soft drinks, is classified as "possibly" carcinogenic to humans. The WHO statement stated that the classification is done based on limited evidence for carcinogenicity in humans, specifically for hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer.

The World Health Organization has said that aspartame, the non-sugar sweetener used in many soft drinks, is classified as "possibly" carcinogenic to humans. The WHO statement stated that the classification is done based on limited evidence for carcinogenicity in humans, specifically for hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have released assessments regarding the health impacts of the non-sugar sweetener aspartame. Aspartame is an artificial sweetener widely used in various food and beverage products since the 1980s. Also Read | Ukraine 'will join NATO', Putin has 'lost the war': Biden in Helsinki "IARC classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) on the basis of limited evidence for cancer in humans (specifically, for hepatocellular carcinoma, which is a type of liver cancer). There was also limited evidence for cancer in experimental animals and limited evidence related to the possible mechanisms for causing cancer," the WHO statement read. Also Read | Cocaine at White House: Secret Service ends probe without finding suspect "JECFA’s risk assessments determine the probability of a specific type of harm, i.e. cancer, to occur under certain conditions and levels of exposure," WHO added. No reason to change acceptable daily intake JECFA concluded that the available data did not provide sufficient reason to change the previously established acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 0-40 mg/kg body weight for aspartame. "The committee therefore reaffirmed that it is safe for a person to consume within this limit per day. For example, with a can of diet soft drink containing 200 or 300 mg of aspartame, an adult weighing 70kg would need to consume more than 9–14 cans per day to exceed the acceptable daily intake, assuming no other intake from other food sources," the statement read. Watch | Russian general says top military brass betrayed soldiers fighting in Ukraine × "IARC classifications reflect the strength of scientific evidence as to whether an agent can cause cancer in humans, but they do not reflect the risk of developing cancer at a given exposure level," it added. Need for further research Dr Moez Sanaa, WHO’s Head of the Standards and Scientific Advice on Food and Nutrition Unit, said: “We need better studies with longer follow-up and repeated dietary questionnaires in existing cohorts. We need randomized controlled trials, including studies of mechanistic pathways relevant to insulin regulation, metabolic syndrome and diabetes, particularly as related to carcinogenicity.” IARC and WHO will continue to monitor new evidence and encourage independent research groups to conduct further studies on the potential association between aspartame exposure and consumer health effects. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

WHO says sweetener aspartame can cause cancer, but maintains current intake guidelines

<p>The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning on Wednesday, expressing concerns that the recent surge in bird flu outbreaks among mammals could facilitate the transmission of the virus to humans.</p>

<p>Europe has been grappling with its most severe bird flu outbreak in history since late 2021, while North and South America have also witnessed significant outbreaks, reported AFP.</p>

<p>As a result, tens of millions of poultry worldwide, often infected with the H5N1 strain of the virus that emerged in 1996, have been culled.</p>

<h2><strong>What did the WHO say?</strong></h2>

<p>The WHO emphasised that avian influenza viruses primarily spread among birds.</p>

<p>However, the increasing number of H5N1 avian influenza cases detected in mammals, which are biologically more closely related to humans than birds, raises concerns that the virus could adapt to infect humans more easily.</p>

<p>Additionally, certain mammals can serve as mixing vessels for influenza viruses, potentially leading to the emergence of new and more harmful strains that affect animals and humans alike.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/birds-have-inbuilt-gps-in-their-brains-which-they-turn-on-and-off-reveals-study-604464">Birds have inbuilt GPS in their brains which they turn on and off, reveals study</a></p>

<h2><strong>Consequences of the outbreak</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing bird flu outbreaks have caused devastating consequences for animals, including poultry, wild birds, and some mammals.</p>

<p>These outbreaks have not only harmed farmers' livelihoods and the food trade but also pose continued risks to humans, as stated by the UN health agency.</p>

<p>The WHO, along with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), urged countries to collaborate in order to safeguard animals and protect human populations.</p>

<p>Gregorio Torres, WOAH's science chief, who spoke to AFP, highlighted the recent shift in the ecology and epidemiology of avian influenza, which has raised global concerns due to its spread into new geographical regions, unusual wild bird die-offs, and a significant increase in mammalian cases.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Chilean Dolphins face threats from avian flu &amp; human activity</strong></p>

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<p>While human bird flu cases typically result from direct or indirect exposure to infected poultry or contaminated environments, the virus does not easily transmit from person to person.</p>

<p>However, the WHO's pandemic preparedness chief, Sylvie Briand, emphasised the importance of vigilance in identifying any potential evolution of the virus that could enhance human transmission.</p>

<p>Countries were urged to enhance their monitoring capabilities, particularly those with limited prior experience in avian flu surveillance.</p>

<p>In light of these developments, it is crucial to remain alert and proactive in monitoring the virus, anticipating potential changes that could pose greater risks to human health, and strengthening international collaboration in addressing this ongoing threat.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning on Wednesday, expressing concerns that the recent surge in bird flu outbreaks among mammals could facilitate the transmission of the virus to humans.

The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning on Wednesday, expressing concerns that the recent surge in bird flu outbreaks among mammals could facilitate the transmission of the virus to humans. Europe has been grappling with its most severe bird flu outbreak in history since late 2021, while North and South America have also witnessed significant outbreaks, reported AFP. As a result, tens of millions of poultry worldwide, often infected with the H5N1 strain of the virus that emerged in 1996, have been culled. What did the WHO say? The WHO emphasised that avian influenza viruses primarily spread among birds. However, the increasing number of H5N1 avian influenza cases detected in mammals, which are biologically more closely related to humans than birds, raises concerns that the virus could adapt to infect humans more easily. Additionally, certain mammals can serve as mixing vessels for influenza viruses, potentially leading to the emergence of new and more harmful strains that affect animals and humans alike. Also read | Birds have inbuilt GPS in their brains which they turn on and off, reveals study Consequences of the outbreak The ongoing bird flu outbreaks have caused devastating consequences for animals, including poultry, wild birds, and some mammals. These outbreaks have not only harmed farmers' livelihoods and the food trade but also pose continued risks to humans, as stated by the UN health agency. The WHO, along with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), urged countries to collaborate in order to safeguard animals and protect human populations. Gregorio Torres, WOAH's science chief, who spoke to AFP, highlighted the recent shift in the ecology and epidemiology of avian influenza, which has raised global concerns due to its spread into new geographical regions, unusual wild bird die-offs, and a significant increase in mammalian cases. Also watch | Chilean Dolphins face threats from avian flu & human activity While human bird flu cases typically result from direct or indirect exposure to infected poultry or contaminated environments, the virus does not easily transmit from person to person. However, the WHO's pandemic preparedness chief, Sylvie Briand, emphasised the importance of vigilance in identifying any potential evolution of the virus that could enhance human transmission. Countries were urged to enhance their monitoring capabilities, particularly those with limited prior experience in avian flu surveillance. In light of these developments, it is crucial to remain alert and proactive in monitoring the virus, anticipating potential changes that could pose greater risks to human health, and strengthening international collaboration in addressing this ongoing threat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Alarming warning from WHO: Bird flu poses increased risk of adapting to humans

Legal & medical standards defined by the WHO aim to improve access to safe abortion. Abortion conversation in Africa going the opposite direction to the US.

Is Africa becoming liberal with abortions?

<p>One of the world's most common artificial sweeteners is set to be declared a possible carcinogen next month by a leading global health body, according to two sources with knowledge of the process, pitting it against the food industry and regulators.</p>

<p>Aspartame, used in products from Coca-Cola diet sodas to Mars' Extra chewing gum and some Snapple drinks, will be listed in July as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" for the first time by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the World Health Organization's (WHO) cancer research arm, the sources said.</p>

<p>The IARC ruling, finalised earlier this month after a meeting of the group's external experts, is intended to assess whether something is a potential hazard or not, based on all the published evidence.</p>

<p>It does not take into account how much of a product a person can safely consume. This advice for individuals comes from a separate WHO expert committee on food additives, known as JECFA (the Joint WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization's Expert Committee on Food Additives), alongside determinations from national regulators.</p>

<p>However, similar IARC rulings in the past for different substances have raised concerns among consumers about their use, led to lawsuits, and pressured manufacturers to recreate recipes and swap to alternatives. That has led to criticism that the IARC's assessments can be confusing to the public.</p>

<p>JECFA, the WHO committee on additives, is also reviewing aspartame use this year. Its meeting began at the end of June and it is due to announce its findings on the same day that the IARC makes public its decision – on July 14.</p>

<p>Since 1981, JECFA has said aspartame is safe to consume within accepted daily limits. For example, an adult weighing 60 kg (132 pounds) would have to drink between 12 and 36 cans of diet soda – depending on the amount of aspartame in the beverage – every day to be at risk. Its view has been widely shared by national regulators, including in the United States and Europe.</p>

<p>An IARC spokesperson said both the IARC and JECFA committees' findings were confidential until July, but added they were "complementary", with IARC's conclusion representing "the first fundamental step to understand carcinogenicity". The additives committee "conducts risk assessment, which determines the probability of a specific type of harm (e.g., cancer) to occur under certain conditions and levels of exposure."</p>

<p>However, industry and regulators fear that holding both processes at around the same time could be confusing, according to letters from U.S. and Japanese regulators seen by Reuters.</p>

<p>"We kindly ask both bodies to coordinate their efforts in reviewing aspartame to avoid any confusion or concerns among the public," Nozomi Tomita, an official from Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, wrote in a letter dated March 27 to WHO's deputy director general, Zsuzsanna Jakab.</p>

<p>The letter also called for the conclusions of both bodies to be released on the same day, as is now happening. The Japanese mission in Geneva, where the WHO is based, did not respond to a request for comment.</p>

<h2><strong>Debate&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The IARC's rulings can have a huge impact. In 2015, its committee concluded that glyphosate is "probably carcinogenic". Years later, even as other bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) contested this, companies were still feeling the effects of the decision. Germany’s Bayer in 2021 lost its third appeal against U.S. court verdicts that awarded damages to customers blaming their cancers on the use of its glyphosate-based weed-killers.</p>

<p>The IARC's decisions have also faced criticism for sparking needless alarm over hard-to-avoid substances or situations. It has previously put working overnight and consuming red meat into its "probably cancer-causing" class, and using mobile phones as "possibly cancer-causing", similar to aspartame.</p>

<p>"IARC is not a food safety body and their review of aspartame is not scientifically comprehensive and is based heavily on widely discredited research," Frances Hunt-Wood, the secretary general of the International Sweeteners Association (ISA), said.</p>

<p>The body, whose members include Mars Wrigley, a Coca-Cola unit and Cargill, said it had "serious concerns with the IARC review, which may mislead consumers".</p>

<p>The International Council of Beverages Associations' executive director Kate Loatman said public health authorities should be "deeply concerned" by the "leaked opinion", and also warned it "could needlessly mislead consumers into consuming more sugar rather than choosing safe no-and low-sugar options."</p>

<p>Aspartame has been extensively studied for years. Last year, an observational study in France among 100,000 adults showed that people who consumed larger amounts of artificial sweeteners – including aspartame – had a slightly higher cancer risk.</p>

<p>It followed a study from the Ramazzini Institute in Italy in the early 2000s, which reported that some cancers in mice and rats were linked to aspartame.</p>

<p>However, the first study could not prove that aspartame caused the increased cancer risk, and questions have been raised about the methodology of the second study, including by EFSA, which assessed it.</p>

<p>Aspartame is authorised for use globally by regulators who have reviewed all the available evidence, and major food and beverage makers have for decades defended their use of the ingredient. The IARC said it had assessed 1,300 studies in its June review.</p>

<p>Recent recipe tweaks by soft drinks giant Pepsico demonstrate the struggle the industry has when it comes to balancing taste preferences with health concerns. Pepsico removed aspartame from sodas in 2015, bringing it back a year later, only to remove it again in 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away'</strong></p>

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<p>Listing aspartame as a possible carcinogen is intended to motivate more research, said the sources close to the IARC, which will help agencies, consumers and manufacturers draw firmer conclusions.</p>

<p>But it will also likely ignite debate once again over the IARC's role, as well as the safety of sweeteners more generally.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-clock-tells-story-of-most-populous-nation-608958"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indian clock tells story of most populous nation</strong></a></p>

<p>Last month, the WHO published guidelines advising consumers not to use non-sugar sweeteners for weight control. The guidelines caused a furor&nbsp;in the food industry, which argues they can be helpful for consumers wanting to reduce the amount of sugar in their diet.</p>

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One of the world's most common artificial sweeteners is set to be declared a possible carcinogen next month by a leading global health body, according to two sources with knowledge of the process, pitting it against the food industry and regulators.

One of the world's most common artificial sweeteners is set to be declared a possible carcinogen next month by a leading global health body, according to two sources with knowledge of the process, pitting it against the food industry and regulators. Aspartame, used in products from Coca-Cola diet sodas to Mars' Extra chewing gum and some Snapple drinks, will be listed in July as "possibly carcinogenic to humans" for the first time by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the World Health Organization's (WHO) cancer research arm, the sources said. The IARC ruling, finalised earlier this month after a meeting of the group's external experts, is intended to assess whether something is a potential hazard or not, based on all the published evidence. It does not take into account how much of a product a person can safely consume. This advice for individuals comes from a separate WHO expert committee on food additives, known as JECFA (the Joint WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization's Expert Committee on Food Additives), alongside determinations from national regulators. However, similar IARC rulings in the past for different substances have raised concerns among consumers about their use, led to lawsuits, and pressured manufacturers to recreate recipes and swap to alternatives. That has led to criticism that the IARC's assessments can be confusing to the public. JECFA, the WHO committee on additives, is also reviewing aspartame use this year. Its meeting began at the end of June and it is due to announce its findings on the same day that the IARC makes public its decision – on July 14. Since 1981, JECFA has said aspartame is safe to consume within accepted daily limits. For example, an adult weighing 60 kg (132 pounds) would have to drink between 12 and 36 cans of diet soda – depending on the amount of aspartame in the beverage – every day to be at risk. Its view has been widely shared by national regulators, including in the United States and Europe. An IARC spokesperson said both the IARC and JECFA committees' findings were confidential until July, but added they were "complementary", with IARC's conclusion representing "the first fundamental step to understand carcinogenicity". The additives committee "conducts risk assessment, which determines the probability of a specific type of harm (e.g., cancer) to occur under certain conditions and levels of exposure." However, industry and regulators fear that holding both processes at around the same time could be confusing, according to letters from U.S. and Japanese regulators seen by Reuters. "We kindly ask both bodies to coordinate their efforts in reviewing aspartame to avoid any confusion or concerns among the public," Nozomi Tomita, an official from Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, wrote in a letter dated March 27 to WHO's deputy director general, Zsuzsanna Jakab. The letter also called for the conclusions of both bodies to be released on the same day, as is now happening. The Japanese mission in Geneva, where the WHO is based, did not respond to a request for comment. Debate The IARC's rulings can have a huge impact. In 2015, its committee concluded that glyphosate is "probably carcinogenic". Years later, even as other bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) contested this, companies were still feeling the effects of the decision. Germany’s Bayer in 2021 lost its third appeal against U.S. court verdicts that awarded damages to customers blaming their cancers on the use of its glyphosate-based weed-killers. The IARC's decisions have also faced criticism for sparking needless alarm over hard-to-avoid substances or situations. It has previously put working overnight and consuming red meat into its "probably cancer-causing" class, and using mobile phones as "possibly cancer-causing", similar to aspartame. "IARC is not a food safety body and their review of aspartame is not scientifically comprehensive and is based heavily on widely discredited research," Frances Hunt-Wood, the secretary general of the International Sweeteners Association (ISA), said. The body, whose members include Mars Wrigley, a Coca-Cola unit and Cargill, said it had "serious concerns with the IARC review, which may mislead consumers". The International Council of Beverages Associations' executive director Kate Loatman said public health authorities should be "deeply concerned" by the "leaked opinion", and also warned it "could needlessly mislead consumers into consuming more sugar rather than choosing safe no-and low-sugar options." Aspartame has been extensively studied for years. Last year, an observational study in France among 100,000 adults showed that people who consumed larger amounts of artificial sweeteners – including aspartame – had a slightly higher cancer risk. It followed a study from the Ramazzini Institute in Italy in the early 2000s, which reported that some cancers in mice and rats were linked to aspartame. However, the first study could not prove that aspartame caused the increased cancer risk, and questions have been raised about the methodology of the second study, including by EFSA, which assessed it. Aspartame is authorised for use globally by regulators who have reviewed all the available evidence, and major food and beverage makers have for decades defended their use of the ingredient. The IARC said it had assessed 1,300 studies in its June review. Recent recipe tweaks by soft drinks giant Pepsico demonstrate the struggle the industry has when it comes to balancing taste preferences with health concerns. Pepsico removed aspartame from sodas in 2015, bringing it back a year later, only to remove it again in 2020. Watch: WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away' × Listing aspartame as a possible carcinogen is intended to motivate more research, said the sources close to the IARC, which will help agencies, consumers and manufacturers draw firmer conclusions. But it will also likely ignite debate once again over the IARC's role, as well as the safety of sweeteners more generally. Also read: Indian clock tells story of most populous nation Last month, the WHO published guidelines advising consumers not to use non-sugar sweeteners for weight control. The guidelines caused a furor in the food industry, which argues they can be helpful for consumers wanting to reduce the amount of sugar in their diet. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Popular artificial sweetener Aspartame used in Diet Coke causes cancer, WHO to declare soon

<p>The Indian manufacturer of cough syrups that Uzbekistan said last year had poisoned 19 children had used a toxic industrial-grade ingredient rather than the legitimate pharmaceutical version, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.</p>

<p>The company, Marion Biotech, bought the ingredient — propylene glycol (PG) — from trader Maya Chemtech India, as reported by Reuters. But Maya did not have a licence to sell pharmaceutical-grade materials and "dealt in industrial-grade only," according to a source at the firm with knowledge of the Marion investigation.</p>

<p>"We did not know Marion was going to use it to make cough syrups," said the person, who declined to be identified while the case is investigated. "We are not told where our material is used."</p>

<p>The two sources said the syrup was made with industrial-grade PG, a toxic material widely used in liquid detergents, antifreeze, paints or coatings, and to enhance the effectiveness of pesticides.</p>

<p>"Marion bought commercial-grade propylene glycol," said a second source, an investigator, who declined to be named while the inquiry is ongoing.</p>

<p>"They were supposed to take Indian Pharmacopoeia-grade," the source added, referring to national standards for the composition of pharmaceutical products.</p>

<p>Marion also did not test the ingredient before using it in the syrups it sold to Uzbekistan, the investigator said.</p>

<p>India's drugs and cosmetics rules say manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety of the ingredients they use.</p>

<p>Maya is not facing charges, according to the company source, but the investigation is ongoing. Deepak Sharma, an Assistant Drugs Controller for the national capital territory of Delhi, where Maya is based, declined to comment, saying the case was being investigated by federal drugs authorities.</p>

<p>Marion, which says it deals in pharmaceuticals, herbal and cosmetics products, previously denied any wrongdoing. Neither the company nor India's drug regulator or health ministry responded to requests for comment.</p>

<p>An analysis last year by Uzbekistan's health ministry showed the Marion-made cough syrups, Ambronol and DOK-1 Max, contained unacceptable amounts of toxins diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG), used in products that are not for human consumption.</p>

<p>Uzbekistan in January arrested four people in relation to the 19 deaths, including two executives at a company that imported the Marion drugs. Reuters could not establish the status of the case.</p>

<p>Uzbekistan's health ministry did not respond to a question on possible penalties there.</p>

<h2>'Spurious and adulterated'</h2>

<p>DEG and EG have been used by unscrupulous actors as a substitute for propylene glycol because they are cheaper, according to pharmaceutical manufacturing experts.</p>

<p>The World Health Organization told Reuters earlier this month its working theory is that in 2021, when prices of propylene glycol spiked, one or more suppliers mixed the cheaper toxic liquids with the legitimate chemical.</p>

<p>Asked to comment on the ingredients used by Marion, a WHO spokesperson said, "It is important that product manufacturers only use appropriately qualified suppliers."</p>

<p>Tests in January by an Indian government laboratory found 22 samples of Marion-made syrups were "adulterated and spurious," the country's drug controller said in March.</p>

<p>Authorities in the state of Uttar Pradesh, where Marion is based, cancelled Marion's licence in March. Police arrested three of its employees and issued warrants for the arrest of two directors. The three employees have since been released on bail, said Uttar Pradesh police officer Vijay Kumar.</p>

<p>One of them, operations head Tuhin Bhattacharya, said he had stopped working for Marion, which Reuters could not verify. Reuters could not contact the other two, chemists Mool Singh and Atul Rawat, or their lawyers.</p>

<p>A lawyer for the two Marion directors told the state's Allahabad High Court in April that the drugs had been found "not of standard quality" but not adulterated, adding that the directors had not committed any offence in India as the drugs were meant exclusively for export, according to a court order seen by Reuters.</p>

<p>The court barred police from arresting the directors, Jaya Jain and Sachin Jain unless they had been convicted. Their lawyer, Rohan Gupta, did not respond; Reuters could not reach the directors.</p>

<p>India's drug regulator ordered the country's drugmakers not to buy PG from Maya in March, Reuters has reported.</p>

<h2>Standards</h2>

<p>Besides the deaths in Uzbekistan, at least 70 children died in Gambia last year after taking cough syrups made by another company in India that were found to be contaminated with the toxins, and tainted cough syrups made in Indonesia were linked to the deaths of more than 200 children there.</p>

<p>The deaths prompted an international inquiry into the pharmaceutical supply chain.</p>

<p>International standards allow only trace amounts of EG and DEG in pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol. Limits for the industrial or commercial grade version are not as stringent, because they are not supposed to be ingested by humans.</p>

<p>The toxins were found in cough syrups exported to Gambia by the other Indian company, Maiden Pharmaceuticals. The WHO linked these syrups to the children's deaths; Maiden has denied any wrongdoing.</p>

<p>Gambia told India's drug regulator in June that from July 1 it would make it mandatory for all pharmaceutical products from India to be inspected and tested in India, at the cost of the Indian exporter, prior to shipment -- the first known restrictions on national exports following the deaths linked to Indian-made syrups.</p>

<p>India made it mandatory for companies to have their cough syrups tested before export in June.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The Indian manufacturer of cough syrups that Uzbekistan said last year had poisoned 19 children had used a toxic industrial-grade ingredient rather than the legitimate pharmaceutical version, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

The Indian manufacturer of cough syrups that Uzbekistan said last year had poisoned 19 children had used a toxic industrial-grade ingredient rather than the legitimate pharmaceutical version, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters. The company, Marion Biotech, bought the ingredient — propylene glycol (PG) — from trader Maya Chemtech India, as reported by Reuters. But Maya did not have a licence to sell pharmaceutical-grade materials and "dealt in industrial-grade only," according to a source at the firm with knowledge of the Marion investigation. "We did not know Marion was going to use it to make cough syrups," said the person, who declined to be identified while the case is investigated. "We are not told where our material is used." The two sources said the syrup was made with industrial-grade PG, a toxic material widely used in liquid detergents, antifreeze, paints or coatings, and to enhance the effectiveness of pesticides. "Marion bought commercial-grade propylene glycol," said a second source, an investigator, who declined to be named while the inquiry is ongoing. "They were supposed to take Indian Pharmacopoeia-grade," the source added, referring to national standards for the composition of pharmaceutical products. Marion also did not test the ingredient before using it in the syrups it sold to Uzbekistan, the investigator said. India's drugs and cosmetics rules say manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety of the ingredients they use. Maya is not facing charges, according to the company source, but the investigation is ongoing. Deepak Sharma, an Assistant Drugs Controller for the national capital territory of Delhi, where Maya is based, declined to comment, saying the case was being investigated by federal drugs authorities. Marion, which says it deals in pharmaceuticals, herbal and cosmetics products, previously denied any wrongdoing. Neither the company nor India's drug regulator or health ministry responded to requests for comment. An analysis last year by Uzbekistan's health ministry showed the Marion-made cough syrups, Ambronol and DOK-1 Max, contained unacceptable amounts of toxins diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG), used in products that are not for human consumption. Uzbekistan in January arrested four people in relation to the 19 deaths, including two executives at a company that imported the Marion drugs. Reuters could not establish the status of the case. Uzbekistan's health ministry did not respond to a question on possible penalties there. 'Spurious and adulterated' DEG and EG have been used by unscrupulous actors as a substitute for propylene glycol because they are cheaper, according to pharmaceutical manufacturing experts. The World Health Organization told Reuters earlier this month its working theory is that in 2021, when prices of propylene glycol spiked, one or more suppliers mixed the cheaper toxic liquids with the legitimate chemical. Asked to comment on the ingredients used by Marion, a WHO spokesperson said, "It is important that product manufacturers only use appropriately qualified suppliers." Tests in January by an Indian government laboratory found 22 samples of Marion-made syrups were "adulterated and spurious," the country's drug controller said in March. Authorities in the state of Uttar Pradesh, where Marion is based, cancelled Marion's licence in March. Police arrested three of its employees and issued warrants for the arrest of two directors. The three employees have since been released on bail, said Uttar Pradesh police officer Vijay Kumar. One of them, operations head Tuhin Bhattacharya, said he had stopped working for Marion, which Reuters could not verify. Reuters could not contact the other two, chemists Mool Singh and Atul Rawat, or their lawyers. A lawyer for the two Marion directors told the state's Allahabad High Court in April that the drugs had been found "not of standard quality" but not adulterated, adding that the directors had not committed any offence in India as the drugs were meant exclusively for export, according to a court order seen by Reuters. The court barred police from arresting the directors, Jaya Jain and Sachin Jain unless they had been convicted. Their lawyer, Rohan Gupta, did not respond; Reuters could not reach the directors. India's drug regulator ordered the country's drugmakers not to buy PG from Maya in March, Reuters has reported. Standards Besides the deaths in Uzbekistan, at least 70 children died in Gambia last year after taking cough syrups made by another company in India that were found to be contaminated with the toxins, and tainted cough syrups made in Indonesia were linked to the deaths of more than 200 children there. The deaths prompted an international inquiry into the pharmaceutical supply chain. International standards allow only trace amounts of EG and DEG in pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol. Limits for the industrial or commercial grade version are not as stringent, because they are not supposed to be ingested by humans. The toxins were found in cough syrups exported to Gambia by the other Indian company, Maiden Pharmaceuticals. The WHO linked these syrups to the children's deaths; Maiden has denied any wrongdoing. Gambia told India's drug regulator in June that from July 1 it would make it mandatory for all pharmaceutical products from India to be inspected and tested in India, at the cost of the Indian exporter, prior to shipment -- the first known restrictions on national exports following the deaths linked to Indian-made syrups. India made it mandatory for companies to have their cough syrups tested before export in June. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian pharmaceutical firm used toxic industrial-grade ingredient in syrup: Sources

<p>The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease. This comes days after the World Health Organization (WHO) also declared the end of the Ebola-like virus&nbsp;in Tanzania.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did WHO say about Equatorial Guinea?</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the WHO said, “The outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Equatorial Guinea ended today with no new cases reported over the past 42 days after the last patient was discharged from treatment.” The Central African nation first confirmed the outbreak on February 13 after the death of nine people in one province due to the disease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to data from WHO, a total of 17 laboratory-confirmed cases and 12 deaths were recorded due to the virus while all the 23 probable cases reported died. The statement added, “Four patients recovered from the virus and have been enrolled in a survivors programme to receive psychosocial and other post-recovery support.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equatorial-guinea-confirms-marburg-virus-outbreak-suspected-cases-in-cameroon-heres-what-we-know-so-far-562101">Equatorial Guinea confirms Marburg virus outbreak, suspected cases in Cameroon: Here's what we know so far</a></strong></p>

<p>WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said, “While outbreak-prone diseases continue to pose a major health threat in Africa, we can bank on the region’s growing expertise in health emergency response to act quickly and decisively to safeguard the health and avert widespread loss of life.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, “The hard work by Equatorial Guinea’s health workers and support by partner organizations has been crucial in ending this outbreak. WHO continues to work with countries to improve measures to detect and respond effectively to disease outbreaks.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanzania-declares-end-of-deadly-outbreak-of-marburg-virus-says-who-599633">Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO</a></strong></p>

<p>The UN health agency also said that the Marburg virus had affected some eight provinces in Equatorial Guinea with Bata district in Litoral province being the worst-hit in the country which reported some 11 laboratory-confirmed cases.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tanzania declares end to deadly Marburg virus outbreak: WHO</strong></h2>

<p>On June 2, WHO also released a statement informing that Tanzania has declared an end to the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus which reported a total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable. Among the confirmed cases, three&nbsp;recovered, while the disease claimed the lives of six in the East African country.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Marburg disease?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt, as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/marburg-outbreak-ebola-like-infection-kills-many-in-tanzania-prompts-alert-in-kenya-574755">Marburg outbreak: Ebola-like infection kills many in Tanzania, prompts alert in Kenya</a></strong></p>

<p>At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease.

The United Nation’s health agency, in a statement, on Thursday (June 8), declared an end to a nearly four-month epidemic of Marburg virus in the Central African nation of Equatorial Guinea, with 35 confirmed or suspected deaths due to the disease. This comes days after the World Health Organization (WHO) also declared the end of the Ebola-like virus in Tanzania. What did WHO say about Equatorial Guinea? In a statement, the WHO said, “The outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Equatorial Guinea ended today with no new cases reported over the past 42 days after the last patient was discharged from treatment.” The Central African nation first confirmed the outbreak on February 13 after the death of nine people in one province due to the disease. According to data from WHO, a total of 17 laboratory-confirmed cases and 12 deaths were recorded due to the virus while all the 23 probable cases reported died. The statement added, “Four patients recovered from the virus and have been enrolled in a survivors programme to receive psychosocial and other post-recovery support.” ALSO READ | Equatorial Guinea confirms Marburg virus outbreak, suspected cases in Cameroon: Here's what we know so far WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said, “While outbreak-prone diseases continue to pose a major health threat in Africa, we can bank on the region’s growing expertise in health emergency response to act quickly and decisively to safeguard the health and avert widespread loss of life.” She added, “The hard work by Equatorial Guinea’s health workers and support by partner organizations has been crucial in ending this outbreak. WHO continues to work with countries to improve measures to detect and respond effectively to disease outbreaks.” ALSO READ | Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO The UN health agency also said that the Marburg virus had affected some eight provinces in Equatorial Guinea with Bata district in Litoral province being the worst-hit in the country which reported some 11 laboratory-confirmed cases. Tanzania declares end to deadly Marburg virus outbreak: WHO On June 2, WHO also released a statement informing that Tanzania has declared an end to the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus which reported a total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable. Among the confirmed cases, three recovered, while the disease claimed the lives of six in the East African country. What is Marburg disease? According to the WHO, the Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a highly virulent disease which comes from the same family of viruses that causes Ebola. The rare virus was first identified in 1967 after it caused multiple and simultaneous outbreaks of disease in laboratories in the German cities of Marburg and Frankfurt, as well as the Serbian capital Belgrade. ALSO READ | Marburg outbreak: Ebola-like infection kills many in Tanzania, prompts alert in Kenya At least seven people died after being exposed to the virus who were said to have been conducting research on monkeys. The disease was also later associated with the African green monkeys from Uganda, however, the natural carrier of the Marburg virus is the African fruit bat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO announces end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak in Equatorial Guinea

The World Health Organization recently declared that COVID-19 is not a pandemic anymore. However, the origins of a pandemic that claimed millions of lives around the globe still stay a mystery. Investigators' theories suggest that the virus traveled from bats to humans but, the speculations of it being grown in a Wuhan lab stay in the air.

Scientist reiterates COVID-19's lab-grown theory | Latest News

<p>Owing to a deadly fungal outbreak, the authorities in the US and Mexico have requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency of international concern. The request was conveyed after the US&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) informed that two people&nbsp;who underwent surgeries involving epidural anaesthesia, died of meningitis.</p>

<p>Recruiters reportedly lured patients from multiple countries and 24 US states to two facilities named&nbsp;River Side Surgical Center and Clinica K-3 in Mexico for cosmetic operations that may have exposed them to the fungus. Both facilities have been shut down by the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CDC is currently monitoring over 400 people who may have visited the facilitirs&nbsp;to avail the services. They have also requested others who had surgeries at either of the two facilities to get evaluated, even if they are currently asymptomatic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All have been notified, and are under evaluation, and we were working with transplant centers and other partners to properly manage these patients who had these organs transplanted into their bodies," CDC's Dallas Smith was quoted as saying by CBS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mpox-is-no-longer-a-global-health-emergency-who-591470"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;MPox is no longer a global health emergency: World Health Organization</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Anaesthesia may have been contaminated: CDC</strong></h2>

<p>According to Smith, the medications used during anaesthesia may have been contaminated in the&nbsp;epidural itself or in other medications such as morphine that are added in&nbsp;conjunction with the surgeries.</p>

<p>"There's these agents that act as recruiters in the U.S. for patients, they link US patients to these clinics to receive certain care, and certain procedures like cosmetic procedures," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Because patients in Mexico, the United States, Canada, and Colombia were on the exposed list, we wanted to make sure these countries were aware, and provide such situational awareness, through a public health emergency of international concern."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-declares-covid-19-pandemic-is-over-restrictions-lifted-globally-589326"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WHO declares Covid-19 pandemic is over; restrictions lifted globally</strong></a></p>

<p>Although fungal&nbsp;meningitis is not contagious and can be treated with antifungal medicines - allowing the symptoms to simmer can quickly induce life-threatening conditions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>WHO cannot immediately approve the request</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the requests from the two countries, WHO cannot immediately declare&nbsp;a public health emergency. To do so, a WHO committee will have to convene and decide on the severity of the outbreak and if it is necessary&nbsp;to sound the bugle. Notably, the global health body receives such alerts in abundance every day but not all end up reaching that stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"[We] are notified of hundreds of events every day and assess each one," WHO spokesperson Margaret Ann Haris said in an email.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Owing to a deadly fungal outbreak, the authorities in the US and Mexico have requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency of international concern.

Owing to a deadly fungal outbreak, the authorities in the US and Mexico have requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency of international concern. The request was conveyed after the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) informed that two people who underwent surgeries involving epidural anaesthesia, died of meningitis. Recruiters reportedly lured patients from multiple countries and 24 US states to two facilities named River Side Surgical Center and Clinica K-3 in Mexico for cosmetic operations that may have exposed them to the fungus. Both facilities have been shut down by the authorities. The CDC is currently monitoring over 400 people who may have visited the facilitirs to avail the services. They have also requested others who had surgeries at either of the two facilities to get evaluated, even if they are currently asymptomatic. "All have been notified, and are under evaluation, and we were working with transplant centers and other partners to properly manage these patients who had these organs transplanted into their bodies," CDC's Dallas Smith was quoted as saying by CBS. ALSO READ | MPox is no longer a global health emergency: World Health Organization Anaesthesia may have been contaminated: CDC According to Smith, the medications used during anaesthesia may have been contaminated in the epidural itself or in other medications such as morphine that are added in conjunction with the surgeries. "There's these agents that act as recruiters in the U.S. for patients, they link US patients to these clinics to receive certain care, and certain procedures like cosmetic procedures," he said. "Because patients in Mexico, the United States, Canada, and Colombia were on the exposed list, we wanted to make sure these countries were aware, and provide such situational awareness, through a public health emergency of international concern." WATCH | WHO declares Covid-19 pandemic is over; restrictions lifted globally Although fungal meningitis is not contagious and can be treated with antifungal medicines - allowing the symptoms to simmer can quickly induce life-threatening conditions. WHO cannot immediately approve the request Despite the requests from the two countries, WHO cannot immediately declare a public health emergency. To do so, a WHO committee will have to convene and decide on the severity of the outbreak and if it is necessary to sound the bugle. Notably, the global health body receives such alerts in abundance every day but not all end up reaching that stage. "[We] are notified of hundreds of events every day and assess each one," WHO spokesperson Margaret Ann Haris said in an email. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US, Mexico request WHO to declare public health emergency over deadly fungal outbreak

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<p>Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual assembly - the World Health Assembly (WHA) - following opposition from China, despite Taipei asserting that support was growing for its participation. The WHA in Geneva decided not to extend Taiwan an invitation to the summit that started on Sunday (May 21) and will go on till May 30. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Monday, China, as well as Pakistan, urged members to reject Taiwan's inclusion while eSwatini and the Marshall Islands spoke in favour.</p>

<h2><strong>China welcomes WHO's decision</strong></h2>

<p>The Chinese government welcomed the WHO's decision to exclude Taiwan from its annual assembly. In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, "This fully shows that the one-China principle is the aspiration of the people and the trend of the times in the international community and cannot be challenged in any way."</p>

<p>The ministry added that before the opening of the conference, nearly 100 countries expressed their adherence to the one-China principle and their opposition to Taiwan's participation in the assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China also urges certain countries not to pretend to be confused, stop politicising the health issue, stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of the Taiwan issue, and stop the erroneous practice of using 'Taiwan to control China'," the ministry added.</p>

<h2><strong>Exclusion poses significant threat to global health: Taiwan's health minister</strong></h2>

<p>Taiwan's Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan slammed&nbsp;the WHO's decision by saying that his country's exclusion from the UN health agency's annual assembly posed a significant threat to global health.</p>

<p>"Excluding Taiwan from WHO not only jeopardises the right to health of the 23.5 million people of Taiwan, it also seriously undermines WHO's efforts to achieve health for all," Jui-yuan said on Sunday at an event hosted by the Geneva Press Club, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jui-yuan warned that leaving the self-ruled island out in the cold hampered the swift and efficient sharing of information that would be needed to prevent or more efficiently respond to the next pandemic threat.</p>

<p>"I am afraid that Taiwan will become the gap of the next pandemic," the health minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US mission in Geneva too criticised the WHO's decision by saying Taiwan's exclusion "undermines inclusive global public health cooperation led by WHO."</p>

<p>Taiwan was expelled from the WHO in 1972, a year after it lost the "China" seat at the UN to the People's Republic of China. But Taiwan was allowed to attend the agency's top annual meetings between 2009 and 2016 as an observer when relations with China were warmer.</p>

<p>However, it has been blocked from attending the annual assembly in recent years by China and the Chinese government staunchly opposed efforts to include Taiwan as a WHA observer.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual assembly - the World Health Assembly (WHA) - following opposition from China, despite Taipei asserting that support was growing for its participation.

Taiwan has been excluded from the World Health Organization's (WHO) annual assembly - the World Health Assembly (WHA) - following opposition from China, despite Taipei asserting that support was growing for its participation. The WHA in Geneva decided not to extend Taiwan an invitation to the summit that started on Sunday (May 21) and will go on till May 30. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Monday, China, as well as Pakistan, urged members to reject Taiwan's inclusion while eSwatini and the Marshall Islands spoke in favour. China welcomes WHO's decision The Chinese government welcomed the WHO's decision to exclude Taiwan from its annual assembly. In a statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, "This fully shows that the one-China principle is the aspiration of the people and the trend of the times in the international community and cannot be challenged in any way." The ministry added that before the opening of the conference, nearly 100 countries expressed their adherence to the one-China principle and their opposition to Taiwan's participation in the assembly. "China also urges certain countries not to pretend to be confused, stop politicising the health issue, stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of the Taiwan issue, and stop the erroneous practice of using 'Taiwan to control China'," the ministry added. Exclusion poses significant threat to global health: Taiwan's health minister Taiwan's Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan slammed the WHO's decision by saying that his country's exclusion from the UN health agency's annual assembly posed a significant threat to global health. "Excluding Taiwan from WHO not only jeopardises the right to health of the 23.5 million people of Taiwan, it also seriously undermines WHO's efforts to achieve health for all," Jui-yuan said on Sunday at an event hosted by the Geneva Press Club, news agency AFP reported. Jui-yuan warned that leaving the self-ruled island out in the cold hampered the swift and efficient sharing of information that would be needed to prevent or more efficiently respond to the next pandemic threat. "I am afraid that Taiwan will become the gap of the next pandemic," the health minister added. The US mission in Geneva too criticised the WHO's decision by saying Taiwan's exclusion "undermines inclusive global public health cooperation led by WHO." Taiwan was expelled from the WHO in 1972, a year after it lost the "China" seat at the UN to the People's Republic of China. But Taiwan was allowed to attend the agency's top annual meetings between 2009 and 2016 as an observer when relations with China were warmer. However, it has been blocked from attending the annual assembly in recent years by China and the Chinese government staunchly opposed efforts to include Taiwan as a WHA observer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taiwan excluded from WHO annual assembly after China's opposition; Taipei reacts

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