The World Health Organisation has given its approval for the R21/Matrix malaria vaccine, a ground-breaking development in the battle against malaria. Developed by the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India, this cost-effective vaccine is set to be mass-produced in India.

WHO recommends second Malaria vaccine; could Malaria finally be eradicated?

No fresh cases of the deadly Nipah virus have been detected since Sept. 15 in India's southern state of Kerala, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday.

In its sixth outbreak in the country since 2001 this year, the virus, known for its 70% mortality rate, has claimed two lives out of the six who were infected in a span of few days in September, sending the state government scrambling to contain the spread.

All infected cases were males aged between nine to 45 years and were reported within the Kozhikode district of Kerala, the WHO said, citing India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Currently, there is no vaccine for Nipah, which spreads through contact with infected animals such as bats and pigs.

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No fresh cases of the deadly Nipah virus have been detected since Sept. 15 in India's southern state of Kerala, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday.

No fresh cases of the deadly Nipah virus have been detected since Sept. 15 in India's southern state of Kerala, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. In its sixth outbreak in the country since 2001 this year, the virus, known for its 70% mortality rate, has claimed two lives out of the six who were infected in a span of few days in September, sending the state government scrambling to contain the spread. All infected cases were males aged between nine to 45 years and were reported within the Kozhikode district of Kerala, the WHO said, citing India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Currently, there is no vaccine for Nipah, which spreads through contact with infected animals such as bats and pigs. 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 says no new cases of Nipah virus detected since Sept 15

The World Health Organization on Monday (Oct 2) recommended a second malaria vaccine that will be mass-produced by Serum Institute of India, in a bid to curb the life-threatening vector-borne disease. The jab could offer countries a cheaper and more readily available option. The United Nations health agency also recommended a vaccine against dengue for children living in areas where the infection is a significant public health problem.

During a briefing in Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the&nbsp;agency is approving the new malaria vaccine based on the recommendations of two expert groups which suggested its use in children at risk of the disease.

The announcement comes nearly two years after WHO recommended the broad use of the world’s first malaria vaccine RTS,S.

<h2>Second malaria vaccine</h2>

“Today, it gives me great pleasure to announce that WHO is recommending a second vaccine called R21/Matrix-M to prevent malaria in children at risk of the disease,” said Tedros.&nbsp;

R21/Matrix-M – developed by Britain’s University of Oxford and mass manufactured by Serum Institute of India, and uses Novavax’s Matrix M adjuvant – will be available to countries by mid-2024, said the WHO chief.&nbsp;

“As a malaria researcher, I used to dream of the day we would have a safe and effective vaccine against malaria. Now we have two,” said Tedros. The doses would cost between $2 and $4 and have already been approved for use in Burkina Faso, Ghana and Nigeria.

“WHO is now reviewing the vaccine for prequalification, which is WHO stamp of approval, and will enable GAVI (a global vaccine alliance) and UNICEF to buy the vaccine from manufacturers,” said Tedros.&nbsp;

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India told Reuters that they have already produced more than 20 million doses in anticipation of WHO’s recommendation and will ramp up production depending on the demand.&nbsp;

The UN health agency has also said that both vaccines have shown similar efficacy in separate trials but have not conducted any head-to-head trials to test which one performed better.&nbsp;

It is now up to the countries to decide which product they will use based on various factors including affordability and supply, said WHO.&nbsp;

<h2>About other vaccines</h2>

The WHO chief also said that the health agency is also recommending Takeda Pharmaceuticals’ Qdenga, a vaccine against dengue for children aged six to 16 years in areas where infection is prevalent.&nbsp;

Takeda’s vaccine was shown in trials to be effective against all four stereotypes of the virus in people who were previously infected by dengue, the chair of WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, Hanna Nohynek, told reporters.&nbsp;

The WHO group also recommended a simplified single-dose regime for primary immunisation for most COVID-19 vaccines to improve acceptance of the shots at a time when most people have had at least one prior infection, reported Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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The World Health Organization on Monday (Oct 2) recommended a second malaria vaccine that will be mass-produced by Serum Institute of India, in a bid to curb the life-threatening vector-borne disease.

The World Health Organization on Monday (Oct 2) recommended a second malaria vaccine that will be mass-produced by Serum Institute of India, in a bid to curb the life-threatening vector-borne disease. The jab could offer countries a cheaper and more readily available option. The United Nations health agency also recommended a vaccine against dengue for children living in areas where the infection is a significant public health problem. During a briefing in Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the agency is approving the new malaria vaccine based on the recommendations of two expert groups which suggested its use in children at risk of the disease. The announcement comes nearly two years after WHO recommended the broad use of the world’s first malaria vaccine RTS,S. Second malaria vaccine “Today, it gives me great pleasure to announce that WHO is recommending a second vaccine called R21/Matrix-M to prevent malaria in children at risk of the disease,” said Tedros. R21/Matrix-M – developed by Britain’s University of Oxford and mass manufactured by Serum Institute of India, and uses Novavax’s Matrix M adjuvant – will be available to countries by mid-2024, said the WHO chief. “As a malaria researcher, I used to dream of the day we would have a safe and effective vaccine against malaria. Now we have two,” said Tedros. The doses would cost between $2 and $4 and have already been approved for use in Burkina Faso, Ghana and Nigeria. “WHO is now reviewing the vaccine for prequalification, which is WHO stamp of approval, and will enable GAVI (a global vaccine alliance) and UNICEF to buy the vaccine from manufacturers,” said Tedros. Adar Poonawalla, CEO of Serum Institute of India told Reuters that they have already produced more than 20 million doses in anticipation of WHO’s recommendation and will ramp up production depending on the demand. The UN health agency has also said that both vaccines have shown similar efficacy in separate trials but have not conducted any head-to-head trials to test which one performed better. It is now up to the countries to decide which product they will use based on various factors including affordability and supply, said WHO. About other vaccines The WHO chief also said that the health agency is also recommending Takeda Pharmaceuticals’ Qdenga, a vaccine against dengue for children aged six to 16 years in areas where infection is prevalent. Takeda’s vaccine was shown in trials to be effective against all four stereotypes of the virus in people who were previously infected by dengue, the chair of WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, Hanna Nohynek, told reporters. The WHO group also recommended a simplified single-dose regime for primary immunisation for most COVID-19 vaccines to improve acceptance of the shots at a time when most people have had at least one prior infection, reported Reuters. (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 okays second malaria vaccine for children, to be mass-produced by India's Serum Institute

A new plan which is aimed at reducing the environmental risks from chemicals and waste was adopted by the United Nations conference&nbsp;on Saturday (Sep 30), with several countries committed to phasing out the most harmful ones in the next 12 years or so. The framework adopted also aims to enhance the safety management of hazardous chemicals where they are needed.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the framework about?</h2>

The framework called the ‘Global Framework on Chemicals – For a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste’ was adopted by governments, companies, and NGOs at the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management, held in the German city of Bonn.&nbsp;

The plan in question sets out 28 concrete targets and guidelines for key sectors across the lifecycle of chemicals starting from production to waste.&nbsp;

Some of the steps include preventing illegal trafficking of chemicals and waste, introducing and implementing national legislation and phasing out the highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/exposure-to-forever-chemicals-linked-to-higher-chances-of-cancer-in-women-study-637307">Exposure to ‘forever chemicals’ linked to higher chances of cancer in women: Study</a>

“Everyone on this planet should be able to live and work without fear of falling sick or dying from chemical exposure. Nature, free from pollution, should be able to thrive and support humanity for millennia to come,” said Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in a statement.&nbsp;

She added, “This is why this framework provides a vision for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste, for a safe, healthy and sustainable future.”

The recently adopted framework also calls for a transition to safer and more sustainable chemical alternatives and the responsible management of chemicals in various sectors, including industry, agriculture and healthcare.

Additionally, the Global Framework on Chemicals calls for greater transparency and access to information about chemicals and their associated risks.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asia-africa-bear-brunt-of-damage-from-chemicals-un-experts-202817">Asia, Africa bear brunt of damage from chemicals: UN experts</a>

Notably, Germany has pledged 20 million euros ($21 million) to a fund created for the implementation of the framework from different sources that will be administered by the UN environmental agency.

Participants of the conference in the German city also adopted the Bonn Declaration which, as per the UN, aims to “prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, and phase out the most harmful ones, where appropriate, and enhance the safe management of such chemicals where they are needed.”

<h2>Impact of chemicals on the environment, health</h2>

Over the years, several studies have highlighted the significant association between exposure to chemicals and its adverse impact on a person’s health, not to mention the harmful ones which stay in the environment for years leading to the degradation of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-finds-alarming-levels-of-forever-chemicals-in-norwegian-arctic-ice-may-affect-wildlife-561030">&nbsp;Study finds alarming levels of ‘forever chemicals’ in Norwegian Arctic ice, may affect wildlife</a>

A report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPEBS) noted that more than 75 per cent of land and 40 per cent of marine ecosystems have been significantly altered by human activity.&nbsp;

According to the World Health Organization, “direct chemical pollution of the air, land, water and workplace has caused two million deaths per year." 
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A new plan which is aimed at reducing the environmental risks from chemicals and waste was adopted by the United Nations conference on Saturday (Sep 30), with several countries committed to phasing out the most harmful ones in the next 12 years or so.

A new plan which is aimed at reducing the environmental risks from chemicals and waste was adopted by the United Nations conference on Saturday (Sep 30), with several countries committed to phasing out the most harmful ones in the next 12 years or so. The framework adopted also aims to enhance the safety management of hazardous chemicals where they are needed. What is the framework about? The framework called the ‘Global Framework on Chemicals – For a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste’ was adopted by governments, companies, and NGOs at the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management, held in the German city of Bonn. The plan in question sets out 28 concrete targets and guidelines for key sectors across the lifecycle of chemicals starting from production to waste. Some of the steps include preventing illegal trafficking of chemicals and waste, introducing and implementing national legislation and phasing out the highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035. ALSO READ | Exposure to ‘forever chemicals’ linked to higher chances of cancer in women: Study “Everyone on this planet should be able to live and work without fear of falling sick or dying from chemical exposure. Nature, free from pollution, should be able to thrive and support humanity for millennia to come,” said Inger Andersen, executive director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) in a statement. She added, “This is why this framework provides a vision for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste, for a safe, healthy and sustainable future.” The recently adopted framework also calls for a transition to safer and more sustainable chemical alternatives and the responsible management of chemicals in various sectors, including industry, agriculture and healthcare. Additionally, the Global Framework on Chemicals calls for greater transparency and access to information about chemicals and their associated risks. ALSO READ | Asia, Africa bear brunt of damage from chemicals: UN experts Notably, Germany has pledged 20 million euros ($21 million) to a fund created for the implementation of the framework from different sources that will be administered by the UN environmental agency. Participants of the conference in the German city also adopted the Bonn Declaration which, as per the UN, aims to “prevent exposure to harmful chemicals, and phase out the most harmful ones, where appropriate, and enhance the safe management of such chemicals where they are needed.” Impact of chemicals on the environment, health Over the years, several studies have highlighted the significant association between exposure to chemicals and its adverse impact on a person’s health, not to mention the harmful ones which stay in the environment for years leading to the degradation of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity. ALSO READ | Study finds alarming levels of ‘forever chemicals’ in Norwegian Arctic ice, may affect wildlife A report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPEBS) noted that more than 75 per cent of land and 40 per cent of marine ecosystems have been significantly altered by human activity. According to the World Health Organization, “direct chemical pollution of the air, land, water and workplace has caused two million deaths per year." 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.

UN conference adopts framework to reduce environmental impact of chemicals

Social media platforms so this of course is the story that is trending about the World Health Organization where more than 180 million Indians are said to be living with hypertension

WHO report shows how Indians struggle to control their blood pressure

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

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;

<h2>Covid origins</h2>

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;

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 |&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>

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.

“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.”

<h2>China urged to share information</h2>

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 |&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>

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&nbsp;General Assembly gathering in New York.

(With inputs from agencies)

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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

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;

"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.&nbsp;

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;

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;

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;

Ghebreyesus has long pressed China to provide information concerning the origins of COVID-19, claiming that until this happens, all hypotheses remain open.&nbsp;

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;

Watch:&nbsp;Human trafficking: Why is it hard to combat? | Dark World&nbsp;

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<h2>CIA and Covid controversy&nbsp;</h2>

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;

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;

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;

"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;

(With inputs from agencies)

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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

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?

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 | <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>

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 | <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>

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

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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.

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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

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

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“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 | <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>

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.”

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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

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

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.

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.

"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.

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&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.

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".

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.

"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.

"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&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;Global Centre for Traditional Medicine, also in India's Gujarat state.

<h2>Lack of regulatory oversight</h2>

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,"&nbsp;WHO&nbsp;research chief John Reeder said in a statement.

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.

"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.

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.

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

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).

The platform said its basic framework will aim to remove three types&nbsp;of content misinformation viz. prevention, treatment and denial.&nbsp;

"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;

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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-warns-covid-has-not-gone-away-609442">Watch |&nbsp;WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away'</a>

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<h2>Cancer treatment misinformation to be removed&nbsp;</h2>

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;

"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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-to-block-all-content-spreading-vaccine-misinformation-416998">Also read |&nbsp;YouTube to block all content spreading vaccine misinformation</a>

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;

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.

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.

"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;

(With inputs from agencies)

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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'

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.

<h2>The 'new high' and China</h2>

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 |&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>

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.

<h2>The reason behind the rise in cases</h2>

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.

<h2>Mpox cases and the world</h2>

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;

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.

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>

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).

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)

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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

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;

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.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&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>

<h2>Variant better at evading body's immune system: WHO&nbsp;</h2>

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.&nbsp;

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;

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.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: New Covid variant 'Eris' spreading across the UK

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<h2>US sees rise in EG.5 cases&nbsp;</h2>

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;

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;

"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;

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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

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.

<h2>Toxic chemical&nbsp;</h2>

"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&nbsp;said that the medicine failed separate tests conducted by Iraqi authorities and that products circulating in the market were being confiscated.

<h2>Fifth time&nbsp;</h2>

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,&nbsp;Gambia, Uzbekistan and&nbsp;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)

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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  

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;

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;

<h2>Record-breaking temperatures ‘virtually impossible’ without climate change</h2>

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;

“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;

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;

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;

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; 
 
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;

<h2>Situation to worsen</h2>

“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;

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;

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;

The findings were published using peer-reviewed methods but the study has yet to undergo the formal academic review process.&nbsp;

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 <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;

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.

<h2>About the cause</h2>

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 <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;

They added that these heatwaves will become increasingly likely if measures to slash emissions are not taken.

<h2>Impact and calls for urgent measures</h2>

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;

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;

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.&nbsp;

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;

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;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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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

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