Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - Explosions shook Sudan's capital Tuesday evening despite one side's claiming a ceasefire on the fourth day of fighting that has killed nearly 200.

Sudan: Gunfire sounds during 'truce'; WHO chief calls on fighting factions in Sudan | WION Speed News

Before the official start of the outbreak, in November 2019, Chinese researchers may have started manufacturing two Covid vaccines, according to a US senate report. The allegations are contained in a 300-page report that said the pandemic was most likely caused by a lab leak and was the outcome of a "research-related incident" in Wuhan. The "presumption of accuracy" was no longer warranted, it was claimed, for the hypothesis that Covid-19 changed from an animal to a human in a market.

Covid origin: China began developing two vaccines before official outbreak

Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters.&nbsp;

The discovery was made while surveilling the untreated waters of Los Angeles’ largest treatment plants—the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant in Carson and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant in Playa del Rey— a practice that began following Covid pandemic.&nbsp;

Both facilities serve a total of about 7.5 million people, the Los Angeles Times&nbsp;newspaper reported.&nbsp;

It has alarmed scientists as this antibiotic—for which evidence of resistance has been found—is used when all other drugs, especially penicillin, fail to respond.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Testing found antibiotic resistance genes on two novel small plasmids, circular pieces of DNA that can be shared among different types of unrelated bacteria,” said researcher Adam Smith, associate professor of environmental engineering at USC,&nbsp;whose findings were published&nbsp;in Environmental Science &amp; Technology Letters.&nbsp;

“This is probably the scariest aspect: the potential for this resistance to spread widely across different bacterial populations,” Smith said.&nbsp;

He noted that this type of antibiotic resistant gene has been found in "six&nbsp;of seven continents",&nbsp;but this is the first time that traces of this antibiotic resistance have been found in LA.&nbsp;

<h2>Iran successfully tests homemade kamikaze drone equipped with 50 kg warhead</h2>

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the major threats to global health, food security, and development.&nbsp;</div>

Although it occurs naturally, misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is believed to be triggering the process.&nbsp;

The global health agency noted that it is becoming difficult to treat a growing number of infections, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and salmonellosis, as antibotics are becoming less effective.&nbsp;

“We could get to the point where we can’t combat infections with antibiotics,” Smith said, “so we’re entering sort of a post-antibiotic world.”&nbsp;

What’s particularly concerning is that antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality.&nbsp;

Colistin was originally discovered in 2015 in China and has been documented on every continent except Antarctica, Smith said. &nbsp;

That includes in Los Angeles, where a resident who died in 2016&nbsp;was found to have been infected with&nbsp;E. coli&nbsp;bacteria&nbsp;that carried a colistin resistance gene.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters.

Researchers in Los Angeles have for the first time found bacteria that is highly resistant to colistin, considered to be the “last resort” antibiotic, in the US county’s wastewaters. The discovery was made while surveilling the untreated waters of Los Angeles’ largest treatment plants—the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant in Carson and the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant in Playa del Rey— a practice that began following Covid pandemic. Both facilities serve a total of about 7.5 million people, the Los Angeles Times newspaper reported. It has alarmed scientists as this antibiotic—for which evidence of resistance has been found—is used when all other drugs, especially penicillin, fail to respond. “Testing found antibiotic resistance genes on two novel small plasmids, circular pieces of DNA that can be shared among different types of unrelated bacteria,” said researcher Adam Smith, associate professor of environmental engineering at USC, whose findings were published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters. “This is probably the scariest aspect: the potential for this resistance to spread widely across different bacterial populations,” Smith said. He noted that this type of antibiotic resistant gene has been found in "six of seven continents", but this is the first time that traces of this antibiotic resistance have been found in LA. Iran successfully tests homemade kamikaze drone equipped with 50 kg warhead According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), antibiotic resistance is one of the major threats to global health, food security, and development. Although it occurs naturally, misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is believed to be triggering the process. The global health agency noted that it is becoming difficult to treat a growing number of infections, such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and salmonellosis, as antibotics are becoming less effective. “We could get to the point where we can’t combat infections with antibiotics,” Smith said, “so we’re entering sort of a post-antibiotic world.” What’s particularly concerning is that antibiotic resistance leads to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality. Colistin was originally discovered in 2015 in China and has been documented on every continent except Antarctica, Smith said. That includes in Los Angeles, where a resident who died in 2016 was found to have been infected with E. coli bacteria that carried a colistin resistance gene. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bacteria resistant to 'last resort' antibiotic found in Los Angeles for first time  

China has been accused by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for withholding information crucial for determining the origins of Covid-19. This has happened after a group of international scientists pointed out that the virus might be linked to wild Raccoon dogs.

China slams WHO for politicising origins of Covid

Around 17.5 per cent of the world population or one in six people have experienced infertility at some point in their lifetime, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed in its report that seeks to underscore affliction as a global health issue.

The estimates are based on 100 studies conducted between 1990 and 2021 across high, middle and low-income countries.

In high-income countries, around 17.8 per cent&nbsp;of the population have experienced&nbsp;infertility at least once, while it was 16.5 per cent in low- and middle-income countries.

The UN health body has described infertility as a disease of the male or female reproductive system that is defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.

While presenting the report, WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the study highlighted that there was an urgent need to expand access to prevention, diagnosis and treatments for infertility.

“The report reveals an important truth – infertility does not discriminate. The sheer proportion of people affected shows the need to widen access to fertility care and ensure this issue is no longer sidelined in health research and policy, so that safe, effective and affordable ways to attain parenthood are available for those who seek it,” he said.

“The causes of infertility are varied and often complex, and it is something that both men and women experience,” said Tedros.

&nbsp;“Indeed, a wide variety of people, in all regions, may require fertility care.”

The WHO, however, suggested that there was not enough evidence to show whether prevalence was rising or not.

“Based on the data we have, we cannot say that infertility is increasing or constant … the jury’s still out on that question,” the global health agency’s unit head for Contraception and Fertility Care, James Kiarie, told journalists citing that data so far has been mixed and inconsistent, according to AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Around 17.5 per cent of the world population or one in six people have experienced infertility at some point in their lifetime, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed in its report that seeks to underscore affliction as a global health issue.

Around 17.5 per cent of the world population or one in six people have experienced infertility at some point in their lifetime, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has revealed in its report that seeks to underscore affliction as a global health issue. The estimates are based on 100 studies conducted between 1990 and 2021 across high, middle and low-income countries. In high-income countries, around 17.8 per cent of the population have experienced infertility at least once, while it was 16.5 per cent in low- and middle-income countries. The UN health body has described infertility as a disease of the male or female reproductive system that is defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. While presenting the report, WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the study highlighted that there was an urgent need to expand access to prevention, diagnosis and treatments for infertility. “The report reveals an important truth – infertility does not discriminate. The sheer proportion of people affected shows the need to widen access to fertility care and ensure this issue is no longer sidelined in health research and policy, so that safe, effective and affordable ways to attain parenthood are available for those who seek it,” he said. “The causes of infertility are varied and often complex, and it is something that both men and women experience,” said Tedros. “Indeed, a wide variety of people, in all regions, may require fertility care.” The WHO, however, suggested that there was not enough evidence to show whether prevalence was rising or not. “Based on the data we have, we cannot say that infertility is increasing or constant … the jury’s still out on that question,” the global health agency’s unit head for Contraception and Fertility Care, James Kiarie, told journalists citing that data so far has been mixed and inconsistent, according to AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

One in six people are affected by infertility, says WHO report

Covid cases are rising again across India. New Delhi reported over 3,000 Covid cases in the last 24 hours. The active Covid cases load now stands at over - 18,000. The recent spike is attributed to the sub-variant XBB.1.16.

India: Covid cases rise across Indian States; WHO monitors spike in Covid cases | India News | WION

The W.H.O. is considering including obesity medicines on its essential drugs list. This would make these medicines more accessible in low to middle-income countries that house 70% of the World's obese people. But is the W.H.O.'s move enough? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: W.H.O considers obesity medicines for essential drug list | Obesity in America on a rise

The World Health Organization on Thursday warned against "fake news" after Twitter boss Elon Musk tweeted that countries should not "cede authority to WHO" amid negotiations over a new pandemic treaty.

W.H.O. warns of "Fake News" after Elon Musk Pandemic Treaty Tweet

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe. The World Health Organization on Thursday warned against "fake news" after Twitter boss Elon Musk tweeted that countries should not "cede authority to WHO" amid negotiations over a new pandemic treaty.

Trump created false expectations of arrest; Musk & W.H.O spar over UN agency's role

Eight new confirmed cases of Marburg disease have been reported in Equatorial Guinea, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday.

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This brings the total of laboratory-confirmed cases to nine and probable cases to 20 since the outbreak of a deadly disease similar to Ebola was declared in February. Twenty deaths have been reported.

Of the eight new cases, two were reported from the Central African country's Kie-Ntem province, four from the Litoral province and two from Centre-Sur province, the WHO said in a statement.

The areas reporting cases are about 150 kilometres (93 miles) apart, suggesting a wider transmission of the virus, the WHO said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-marburg-virus-outbreak-reaches-cameroon-know-about-symptoms-treatment-and-origin-562228">Explained: Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin</a>

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"The confirmation of these new cases is a critical signal to scale up response efforts to quickly stop the chain of transmission," WHO Africa Director Matshidiso Moeti said in the statement.

Marburg virus disease is a viral haemorrhagic fever that can have a fatality rate of up to 88%, according to the WHO.

<meta charset="utf-8" />Symptoms include fever, fatigue and blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea. There are no vaccines or antiviral treatments approved to treat it.

Neighbouring Cameroon also detected two suspected cases of Marburg disease last month despite restricting movement along the border to avoid contagion. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Eight new confirmed cases of Marburg disease have been reported in Equatorial Guinea, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday. This brings the total of laboratory-confirmed cases to nine and probable cases to 20 since the outbreak of a deadly disease similar to Ebola was declared in February.

Eight new confirmed cases of Marburg disease have been reported in Equatorial Guinea, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Thursday. This brings the total of laboratory-confirmed cases to nine and probable cases to 20 since the outbreak of a deadly disease similar to Ebola was declared in February. Twenty deaths have been reported. Of the eight new cases, two were reported from the Central African country's Kie-Ntem province, four from the Litoral province and two from Centre-Sur province, the WHO said in a statement. The areas reporting cases are about 150 kilometres (93 miles) apart, suggesting a wider transmission of the virus, the WHO said. ALSO READ | Explained: Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin "The confirmation of these new cases is a critical signal to scale up response efforts to quickly stop the chain of transmission," WHO Africa Director Matshidiso Moeti said in the statement. Marburg virus disease is a viral haemorrhagic fever that can have a fatality rate of up to 88%, according to the WHO. Symptoms include fever, fatigue and blood-stained vomit and diarrhoea. There are no vaccines or antiviral treatments approved to treat it. Neighbouring Cameroon also detected two suspected cases of Marburg disease last month despite restricting movement along the border to avoid contagion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Equatorial Guinea confirms eight more Marburg cases: WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has accused China of withholding information on Covid origins. The global health agency criticised China for not sharing scientific data samples taken from a&nbsp;market in Wuhan in 2020, saying that it could have provided significant information and helped tackle the pandemic, which claimed millions of lives worldwide, reports The New York Times (NYT) newspaper.

It is widely believed that an animal market at Huanan in central China's Wuhan city was the epicentre of the pandemic. It is claimed that from there, the SARS-CoV-2 virus rapidly spread to other locations in Wuhan in late 2019 and then to the rest of the world.

On Friday, the WHO asked the Chinese why the data from three years ago was not shared and why the data could not be found now&nbsp;after it was published online in January.

"Every piece of data relating to studying the origins of COVID-19 needs to be shared with the international community immediately. These data could have — and should have — been shared three years ago," WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva on Friday.

<h2>US House votes unanimously to declassify Covid origins intel, bill sent to Biden</h2>

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"We continue to call on China to be transparent in sharing data and to conduct the necessary investigations and share the results. Understanding how the pandemic began remains both a moral and scientific imperative," he said.

According to an NYT report, before the data got disappeared, an international team of virus experts analysed it and revealed that the samples support the idea that the pandemic could have begun from the illegally traded raccoon dogs.

The WHO chief said that while the data was online, scientists from a number of countries downloaded the data and analysed it.

"As soon as we became aware of this data, we contacted the Chinese CDC and urged them to share it with WHO and the international scientific community so it can be analysed," he said, adding that WHO also convened the Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens, or SAGO, which met on Tuesday.

The report further mentioned that the genetic data drawn from swabs were taken from in and around the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market starting in January 2020 "shortly after the Chinese authorities had shut down the market because of suspicions that it was linked to the outbreak of a new virus."

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has accused China of withholding information on Covid origins. The global health agency criticised China for not sharing scientific data samples taken from a market in Wuhan in 2020, saying that it could have provided significant information and helped tackle the pandemic, which claimed millions of lives worldwide, reports The New York Times (NYT) newspaper.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has accused China of withholding information on Covid origins. The global health agency criticised China for not sharing scientific data samples taken from a market in Wuhan in 2020, saying that it could have provided significant information and helped tackle the pandemic, which claimed millions of lives worldwide, reports The New York Times (NYT) newspaper. It is widely believed that an animal market at Huanan in central China's Wuhan city was the epicentre of the pandemic. It is claimed that from there, the SARS-CoV-2 virus rapidly spread to other locations in Wuhan in late 2019 and then to the rest of the world. On Friday, the WHO asked the Chinese why the data from three years ago was not shared and why the data could not be found now after it was published online in January. "Every piece of data relating to studying the origins of COVID-19 needs to be shared with the international community immediately. These data could have — and should have — been shared three years ago," WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva on Friday. US House votes unanimously to declassify Covid origins intel, bill sent to Biden "We continue to call on China to be transparent in sharing data and to conduct the necessary investigations and share the results. Understanding how the pandemic began remains both a moral and scientific imperative," he said. According to an NYT report, before the data got disappeared, an international team of virus experts analysed it and revealed that the samples support the idea that the pandemic could have begun from the illegally traded raccoon dogs. The WHO chief said that while the data was online, scientists from a number of countries downloaded the data and analysed it. "As soon as we became aware of this data, we contacted the Chinese CDC and urged them to share it with WHO and the international scientific community so it can be analysed," he said, adding that WHO also convened the Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens, or SAGO, which met on Tuesday. The report further mentioned that the genetic data drawn from swabs were taken from in and around the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market starting in January 2020 "shortly after the Chinese authorities had shut down the market because of suspicions that it was linked to the outbreak of a new virus." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WHO accuses China of holding back information on Covid origins, seeks details

More than half the world's top 100 most polluted cities are in India; check if your city made the list

The World Health Organization (WHO) three years ago on 11 March 2020 declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. However, its origins still remain unknown, even though many reports claim it is China's Wuhan province from where the virus originated.&nbsp;

Marking three years into the COVID 'pandemic', WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that discovering the origins of COVID-19 is a moral imperative. In a tweet on Saturday, Tedros asserted that all hypotheses around the virs must be explored to help prevent future outbreaks.&nbsp;

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Over 3 years into the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> emergency, too many lives have been lost. Too many people are still suffering, including from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LongCOVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LongCOVID</a>. We'll never stop demanding equitable access to life-saving tools.
— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrTedros/status/1634697707439751169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Understanding #COVID19’s origins and exploring all hypotheses remains:-a scientific imperative, to help us prevent future outbreaks-a moral imperative, for the sake of the millions of people who died and those who live with #LongCOVID," Tedros wrote.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-murder-suspect-gives-the-slip-to-security-officials-escapes-us-courtroom-571091">Murder suspect gives the slip to security officials, escapes US courtroom</a>

A WHO-led team concluded in 2021 that the virus had likely been spread from bats to humans via another animal, though more investigation was required. But China claims that no more visits are required.

Since then, the WHO has established a scientific advisory group on dangerous pathogens, but it hasn't made any determinations about how the pandemic started since it claims that important pieces of information are lacking.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-was-wrong-mike-pence-criticizes-former-prez-for-endangering-his-family-571083">'Trump was wrong': Mike Pence criticises former Prez for 'endangering' his family</a>

A US Energy Department report earlier said that the COVID pandemic was most likely brought on by an unintentional Chinese laboratory leak. This increased pressure on the WHO to provide an explanation. However, the department deemed its level of confidence in its assessment as “low,” people who read the report told the WSJ news portal.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-visit-us-in-june-engagement-with-india-to-counter-china-571114">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China</a>

However, Beijing has refuted the report completely and said that the "origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicised."&nbsp;

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The World Health Organization (WHO) three years ago on 11 March 2020 declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. However, its origins still remain unknown, even though many reports claim it is China's Wuhan province from where the virus originated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) three years ago on 11 March 2020 declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. However, its origins still remain unknown, even though many reports claim it is China's Wuhan province from where the virus originated. Marking three years into the COVID 'pandemic', WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that discovering the origins of COVID-19 is a moral imperative. In a tweet on Saturday, Tedros asserted that all hypotheses around the virs must be explored to help prevent future outbreaks. Over 3 years into the #COVID19 emergency, too many lives have been lost. Too many people are still suffering, including from #LongCOVID. We'll never stop demanding equitable access to life-saving tools. — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) March 11, 2023 × "Understanding #COVID19’s origins and exploring all hypotheses remains:-a scientific imperative, to help us prevent future outbreaks-a moral imperative, for the sake of the millions of people who died and those who live with #LongCOVID," Tedros wrote. Also Read | Murder suspect gives the slip to security officials, escapes US courtroom A WHO-led team concluded in 2021 that the virus had likely been spread from bats to humans via another animal, though more investigation was required. But China claims that no more visits are required. Since then, the WHO has established a scientific advisory group on dangerous pathogens, but it hasn't made any determinations about how the pandemic started since it claims that important pieces of information are lacking. Also Read | 'Trump was wrong': Mike Pence criticises former Prez for 'endangering' his family A US Energy Department report earlier said that the COVID pandemic was most likely brought on by an unintentional Chinese laboratory leak. This increased pressure on the WHO to provide an explanation. However, the department deemed its level of confidence in its assessment as “low,” people who read the report told the WSJ news portal. Watch | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit U.S. in June; engagement with India to counter China However, Beijing has refuted the report completely and said that the "origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicised." 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.

3 years on since COVID 'pandemic', WHO chief says finding origins a 'moral imperative'

India has experienced a major epidemiological shift over the last few decades. The<a href="https://www.healthdata.org/india"> most common cause of mortality in India</a> is now cardiovascular disease (CVD), surpassing cancer, as per the <a href="https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/272672/wntd_2018_india_fs.pdf?sequence=1&amp;isAllowed=y">World Health Organisation</a> (WHO). Despite the considerably varying frequency of risk factors across regions, CVD is the main cause of death in all of India.

With CVD accounting for virtually every fourth death by 2030, India is predicted to have the unfortunate distinction of having the most cardiac mortality worldwide, according to renowned cardiologist Dr C N Manjunath who made the statement while addressing the 'HAL Medicon 2022.'

"Heart issues are growing among the young and middle-aged population and this is alarming," he said.

His statements are further corroborated by a study published in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information titled, ‘<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6994761/#:~:text=The%20results%20of%20Global%20Burden,earlier%20than%20the%20western%20population.">Cardiovascular disease in India: A 360 degree overview,</a><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6994761/#:~:text=The%20results%20of%20Global%20Burden,earlier%20than%20the%20western%20population.">’</a> which throws light on how Indians will be affected by CVD ten years sooner than their western counterparts.

WION spoke to Dr Vineet Bhatia, MD, DM, DNB (Cardiology), MNAMS, FESC, Associate Director, Cardiac sciences, Max Hospital, Patparganj, New Delhi, to comprehend young India's cardiovascular health and the reasons behind an increase in heart attacks.

Here are the excerpts.

Q. Firstly, What is the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest?

A. A heart attack also known as Myocardial Infarction occurs when one of the blood vessels (called coronary artery in medical terms) carrying blood to the heart muscle gets suddenly blocked completely.

As we age, the blood vessels on their inner side develop deposits called “plaque.” These plaques are rich in cholesterol and other substances (notorious to promote clotting when exposed to circulating blood) and are covered by a cap. The plaque&nbsp;gradually increases in size and encroaches on the vessel lumen (the inside space of a tubular structure). This process is accelerated by risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, deranged lipids, smoking etc.

These risk factors are also associated with a high risk of a phenomenon called “plaque rupture” in which disruption of the cap leads to the plaque material getting exposed to the blood flowing in the vessel.

This sets into motion a rapid sequence of events which result in the formation of a clot at the site of rupture resulting in a complete blockade of blood flow beyond that point.

Since the blood and oxygen supply is cut off, the muscle cells of the heart begin to suffer damage and start to die. Irreversible damage begins within 30 minutes of blockage.

Prompt recognition of the problem and early aggressive measures to restore blood flow in the occluded vessel help prevent muscle damage. This forms the basis of the popular saying in cardiology that states “Time is Muscle”- the faster you move the more muscle you can save.

Cardiac arrest on the other hand occurs suddenly and often without any warning. It usually follows an electric malfunction in the heart causing a sudden cessation of electrical activity or irregular heartbeat (referred to as arrhythmia).

With its pumping action disrupted, the heart can not pump blood to the brain, lungs and other vital organs. The individual loses consciousness and is detected to be pulseless and in shock. Unless prompt resuscitative measures are instituted, death may result within minutes. A heart attack may precipitate a cardiac arrest.

Q. What is the most common reason why young Indians are falling prey to heart attacks?

A. The high incidence of heart attacks in India is not of a unifactorial origin but of a multifactorial one. While the prevalence of smoking has declined in the west, there has been a rise in its prevalence among Indian youth.

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India has emerged as the diabetes capital of the world and this is a major risk factor for premature cardiac disease. Unhealthy eating habits coupled with lack of exercise have been contributing to it too.

Furthermore, uncontrolled hypertension, reliance on alternative schools of medicine, stress, obesity and air pollution also play a role in the occurrence of heart attacks.

Q. Why are "seemingly fit" people experiencing heart attacks more frequently now?

A. Lately, we have come across several incidences of cardiac arrest while exercising in gyms raising several concerns.

Chronic and monitored exercise training has shown several physical and mental benefits including a healthy heart.

Regular structured exercise regimens help control risk factors like diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.

However, research has found evidence that sudden and high-intensity exercises (especially in people who exercise infrequently) can acutely increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in individuals with underlying cardiac disease like coronary artery disease (recognised or unrecognised) or cardiac muscle disorders like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Exercise may increase the sheer stress in the blood vessel leading to plaque rupture.

Proper warm-up and cool-down periods (pre and post-exercise) and a gradual build-up of exercise time and severity over a period of time may be helpful in preventing unwanted cardiac events.

In-depth research on active gyms and the credentials of supposedly qualified trainers is also essential. The bulk of so-called self-styled trainers lack degrees in physical education and instruct according to their own whims and fancies because there are no guidelines in place.

Q. Can health supplements lead to unusual cardiac activity?

A. Protein supplements are the in thing among gym goers these days. They overlook the fact that a smart diet plan and using existing protein sources can build muscle, strengthen bones and power our body functions.

However, wanting quick and overnight results and most often peer pressure prompts people to use over-the-counter supplements available in an unregulated market.

The manufacturers package what they feel is safe. For the sake of palatability, they may add sugars, artificial flavours, thickeners and calories with detrimental effects. Many protein powders labelled herbal, ayurvedic and safe may in fact contain heavy metals like cadmium, lead, arsenic or mercury) leading to toxic effects.

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Fat-burning supplements are popular as they help you lose weight in a short span of time.&nbsp;However, they can also occasionally have damaging side effects on our bodies. They may lead to a variety of side effects such as psychological alterations like&nbsp;nervousness, aggressive behaviour, anxiety and mood swings, loss of appetite, and dehydration, which may affect heart rate and blood pressure.

These may in turn trigger cardiac events. In fact, many dietitians and nutritionists recommend not taking any fat burner during your phase of weight loss.

Q. COVID-19 and heart attacks: Is there a correlation?

A. The Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai, United States, recently reported that deaths from heart attacks rose significantly during pandemic surges, including the COVID-19 Omicron phase, overall reversing a heart-healthier pre-pandemic trend.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, heart attacks were the leading cause of death worldwide but were steadily on the decline. However, the new study—recently published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Medical Virology—shows that heart attack death rates took a sharp turn and increased for all age groups during the pandemic.

The rise&nbsp;in such cases has been seen across surges including the presumed less virulent omicron phase. Another disturbing finding reported is a significant increase&nbsp;in the 25-44 years age group who otherwise are often considered to have a lower risk.

Several plausible explanations have been proposed. The COVID-19 virus may accelerate pre-existing coronary artery disease even in young adults, it may lead to inflammation which may trigger the rupture of vulnerable plaques, mental stress like job loss fears, staying indoors with resultant lack of exercise and delay in seeking medical attention (for fear of exposure) may all play a role in triggering acute events.

Q. It has been recommended that one keep Aspirin 300 handy. Is that advice useful? Is it wise to disseminate this information?

A. A common misconception is that if a medicine is available without a prescription and can be purchased over the counter, it must be completely safe.

Aspirin is a vital medication in our armamentarium for treating heart attacks, but when used improperly, it increases the risk of internal bleeding.

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It is important to only use the medicine when under a doctor's supervision. If one thinks one may be having a heart attack, it is best to get medical help right away.

If one is remotely placed then perhaps chewing a 325 mg aspirin tablet may be considered a reasonable option while sincere attempts are made to reach the nearest medical facility.

Q. Many people are resorting to herbal medicines after surviving a heart attack. Are they reliable?

Modern allopathic medications have a positive impact on post-heart attack care, according to large-scale randomised clinical trials.

The treatment plan for&nbsp;people who have undergone a heart attack includes the following medications broadly.

- Antiplatelet agents, which thin the blood.

- Statins, which lower cholesterol in the blood,

- Beta-blockers, which reduce blood pressure and,

- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, which&nbsp;help relax the veins and arteries to lower blood pressure

As far as herbal medicines are concerned, they have not been tested in any major clinical trials, so their role in managing such patients is dubious and in some cases may be detrimental.

Q. What can be done to keep a young heart healthy?

The key to a healthy heart is to have a healthy lifestyle which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, low-stress levels, giving up smoking, managing risk factors, and getting regular checkups. No signs or symptoms should be overlooked, and getting quick medical assistance may help keep us safe.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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India has experienced a major epidemiological shift over the last few decades. The most common cause of mortality in India is now cardiovascular disease (CVD), surpassing cancer, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO).

India has experienced a major epidemiological shift over the last few decades. The most common cause of mortality in India is now cardiovascular disease (CVD), surpassing cancer, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO). Despite the considerably varying frequency of risk factors across regions, CVD is the main cause of death in all of India. With CVD accounting for virtually every fourth death by 2030, India is predicted to have the unfortunate distinction of having the most cardiac mortality worldwide, according to renowned cardiologist Dr C N Manjunath who made the statement while addressing the 'HAL Medicon 2022.' "Heart issues are growing among the young and middle-aged population and this is alarming," he said. His statements are further corroborated by a study published in the National Centre for Biotechnology Information titled, ‘Cardiovascular disease in India: A 360 degree overview,’ which throws light on how Indians will be affected by CVD ten years sooner than their western counterparts. WION spoke to Dr Vineet Bhatia, MD, DM, DNB (Cardiology), MNAMS, FESC, Associate Director, Cardiac sciences, Max Hospital, Patparganj, New Delhi, to comprehend young India's cardiovascular health and the reasons behind an increase in heart attacks. Here are the excerpts. Q. Firstly, What is the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest? A. A heart attack also known as Myocardial Infarction occurs when one of the blood vessels (called coronary artery in medical terms) carrying blood to the heart muscle gets suddenly blocked completely. As we age, the blood vessels on their inner side develop deposits called “plaque.” These plaques are rich in cholesterol and other substances (notorious to promote clotting when exposed to circulating blood) and are covered by a cap. The plaque gradually increases in size and encroaches on the vessel lumen (the inside space of a tubular structure). This process is accelerated by risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, deranged lipids, smoking etc. These risk factors are also associated with a high risk of a phenomenon called “plaque rupture” in which disruption of the cap leads to the plaque material getting exposed to the blood flowing in the vessel. This sets into motion a rapid sequence of events which result in the formation of a clot at the site of rupture resulting in a complete blockade of blood flow beyond that point. Since the blood and oxygen supply is cut off, the muscle cells of the heart begin to suffer damage and start to die. Irreversible damage begins within 30 minutes of blockage. Prompt recognition of the problem and early aggressive measures to restore blood flow in the occluded vessel help prevent muscle damage. This forms the basis of the popular saying in cardiology that states “Time is Muscle”- the faster you move the more muscle you can save. Cardiac arrest on the other hand occurs suddenly and often without any warning. It usually follows an electric malfunction in the heart causing a sudden cessation of electrical activity or irregular heartbeat (referred to as arrhythmia). With its pumping action disrupted, the heart can not pump blood to the brain, lungs and other vital organs. The individual loses consciousness and is detected to be pulseless and in shock. Unless prompt resuscitative measures are instituted, death may result within minutes. A heart attack may precipitate a cardiac arrest. Q. What is the most common reason why young Indians are falling prey to heart attacks? A. The high incidence of heart attacks in India is not of a unifactorial origin but of a multifactorial one. While the prevalence of smoking has declined in the west, there has been a rise in its prevalence among Indian youth. × India has emerged as the diabetes capital of the world and this is a major risk factor for premature cardiac disease. Unhealthy eating habits coupled with lack of exercise have been contributing to it too. Furthermore, uncontrolled hypertension, reliance on alternative schools of medicine, stress, obesity and air pollution also play a role in the occurrence of heart attacks. Q. Why are "seemingly fit" people experiencing heart attacks more frequently now? A. Lately, we have come across several incidences of cardiac arrest while exercising in gyms raising several concerns. Chronic and monitored exercise training has shown several physical and mental benefits including a healthy heart. Regular structured exercise regimens help control risk factors like diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. However, research has found evidence that sudden and high-intensity exercises (especially in people who exercise infrequently) can acutely increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in individuals with underlying cardiac disease like coronary artery disease (recognised or unrecognised) or cardiac muscle disorders like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Exercise may increase the sheer stress in the blood vessel leading to plaque rupture. Proper warm-up and cool-down periods (pre and post-exercise) and a gradual build-up of exercise time and severity over a period of time may be helpful in preventing unwanted cardiac events. In-depth research on active gyms and the credentials of supposedly qualified trainers is also essential. The bulk of so-called self-styled trainers lack degrees in physical education and instruct according to their own whims and fancies because there are no guidelines in place. Q. Can health supplements lead to unusual cardiac activity? A. Protein supplements are the in thing among gym goers these days. They overlook the fact that a smart diet plan and using existing protein sources can build muscle, strengthen bones and power our body functions. However, wanting quick and overnight results and most often peer pressure prompts people to use over-the-counter supplements available in an unregulated market. The manufacturers package what they feel is safe. For the sake of palatability, they may add sugars, artificial flavours, thickeners and calories with detrimental effects. Many protein powders labelled herbal, ayurvedic and safe may in fact contain heavy metals like cadmium, lead, arsenic or mercury) leading to toxic effects. × Fat-burning supplements are popular as they help you lose weight in a short span of time. However, they can also occasionally have damaging side effects on our bodies. They may lead to a variety of side effects such as psychological alterations like nervousness, aggressive behaviour, anxiety and mood swings, loss of appetite, and dehydration, which may affect heart rate and blood pressure. These may in turn trigger cardiac events. In fact, many dietitians and nutritionists recommend not taking any fat burner during your phase of weight loss. Q. COVID-19 and heart attacks: Is there a correlation? A. The Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai, United States, recently reported that deaths from heart attacks rose significantly during pandemic surges, including the COVID-19 Omicron phase, overall reversing a heart-healthier pre-pandemic trend. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, heart attacks were the leading cause of death worldwide but were steadily on the decline. However, the new study—recently published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Medical Virology—shows that heart attack death rates took a sharp turn and increased for all age groups during the pandemic. The rise in such cases has been seen across surges including the presumed less virulent omicron phase. Another disturbing finding reported is a significant increase in the 25-44 years age group who otherwise are often considered to have a lower risk. Several plausible explanations have been proposed. The COVID-19 virus may accelerate pre-existing coronary artery disease even in young adults, it may lead to inflammation which may trigger the rupture of vulnerable plaques, mental stress like job loss fears, staying indoors with resultant lack of exercise and delay in seeking medical attention (for fear of exposure) may all play a role in triggering acute events. Q. It has been recommended that one keep Aspirin 300 handy. Is that advice useful? Is it wise to disseminate this information? A. A common misconception is that if a medicine is available without a prescription and can be purchased over the counter, it must be completely safe. Aspirin is a vital medication in our armamentarium for treating heart attacks, but when used improperly, it increases the risk of internal bleeding. It is important to only use the medicine when under a doctor's supervision. If one thinks one may be having a heart attack, it is best to get medical help right away. If one is remotely placed then perhaps chewing a 325 mg aspirin tablet may be considered a reasonable option while sincere attempts are made to reach the nearest medical facility. Q. Many people are resorting to herbal medicines after surviving a heart attack. Are they reliable? Modern allopathic medications have a positive impact on post-heart attack care, according to large-scale randomised clinical trials. The treatment plan for people who have undergone a heart attack includes the following medications broadly. - Antiplatelet agents, which thin the blood. - Statins, which lower cholesterol in the blood, - Beta-blockers, which reduce blood pressure and, - Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, which help relax the veins and arteries to lower blood pressure As far as herbal medicines are concerned, they have not been tested in any major clinical trials, so their role in managing such patients is dubious and in some cases may be detrimental. Q. What can be done to keep a young heart healthy? The key to a healthy heart is to have a healthy lifestyle which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, low-stress levels, giving up smoking, managing risk factors, and getting regular checkups. No signs or symptoms should be overlooked, and getting quick medical assistance may help keep us safe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Young India's heart health: Cardiologist dispels myths around cardiac activity

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on all the countries to reveal what they know about the origins of the COVID-19 virus after US government agencies claimed that a Chinese lab leak was responsible for the pandemic outbreak.

“If any country has information about the origins of the pandemic, it’s essential for that information to be shared with WHO and the international scientific community,” Ghebreyesus said on Friday, according to AFP news agency.

Tedros said that there was a moral imperative to find out how the pandemic began, for the sake of the millions who lost their lives to Covid and those living with long Covid.

The WHO chief asserted that while they did not want to play the blame game, they instead wanted to understand the origin of the pandemic so that they could&nbsp;prevent, prepare and respond better to future epidemics and pandemics.

While making the request, Tedros deplored the politicisation of the research of the Covid origin, saying that it was making the scientific work harder and the world less safe as a result.

"WHO has not abandoned any plans to identify the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic," he told reporters.

<h2>China warns Tesla CEO Elon Musk after Covid lab leak comments</h2>

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The health agency’s Covid-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove, said they have reached out to the US mission in Geneva for more information.

“So far, however, they did not have access to the data on which the US reports were based,” Kerkhove was quoted as saying.

"It remains vital that that information is shared, to help move the scientific studies forward,” she added.

The WHO’s response comes after FBI director Christopher Wray told Fox News television on Tuesday that after assessing the source of the Covid pandemic the bureau believed that it was "most likely a potential lab incident in Wuhan".

Wray was commenting in response to a report released earlier this week by the US Department of Energy which suggested that a Chinese lab leak was the most likely cause of the coronavirus outbreak.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on all the countries to reveal what they know about the origins of the COVID-19 virus after US government agencies claimed that a Chinese lab leak was responsible for the pandemic outbreak.

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called on all the countries to reveal what they know about the origins of the COVID-19 virus after US government agencies claimed that a Chinese lab leak was responsible for the pandemic outbreak. “If any country has information about the origins of the pandemic, it’s essential for that information to be shared with WHO and the international scientific community,” Ghebreyesus said on Friday, according to AFP news agency. Tedros said that there was a moral imperative to find out how the pandemic began, for the sake of the millions who lost their lives to Covid and those living with long Covid. The WHO chief asserted that while they did not want to play the blame game, they instead wanted to understand the origin of the pandemic so that they could prevent, prepare and respond better to future epidemics and pandemics. While making the request, Tedros deplored the politicisation of the research of the Covid origin, saying that it was making the scientific work harder and the world less safe as a result. "WHO has not abandoned any plans to identify the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic," he told reporters. China warns Tesla CEO Elon Musk after Covid lab leak comments The health agency’s Covid-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove, said they have reached out to the US mission in Geneva for more information. “So far, however, they did not have access to the data on which the US reports were based,” Kerkhove was quoted as saying. "It remains vital that that information is shared, to help move the scientific studies forward,” she added. The WHO’s response comes after FBI director Christopher Wray told Fox News television on Tuesday that after assessing the source of the Covid pandemic the bureau believed that it was "most likely a potential lab incident in Wuhan". Wray was commenting in response to a report released earlier this week by the US Department of Energy which suggested that a Chinese lab leak was the most likely cause of the coronavirus outbreak. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WHO calls on countries to share information on Covid origins after US blames Chinese lab leak

The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with Gambian scientists have concluded that the contaminated cough syrups imported into Gambia are likely the cause of the deaths of 66 children due to acute kidney injury.&nbsp;

The report&nbsp;published in the New England&nbsp;Journal of Medicine on Thursday strongly suggested that medicines contaminated with the toxins led to a cluster of acute kidney injuries among&nbsp;78 kids, and&nbsp;66 deaths between June and September 2022.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-probe-indian-indonesian-firms-over-cough-syrup-linked-deaths-report-555569">Also read |&nbsp;WHO to probe Indian, Indonesian firms over cough syrup linked deaths: Report&nbsp;</a>

The official death toll now stands at 70, after four more children died since September 2022. Most of the kids were aged under two.&nbsp;

The conclusions were reached after examination of medical records of patients and interviewes with parents and caregivers. It also mentioned other evidences contributing to the conclusion&nbsp;such as the tests of the medicines, the fact that the illness did not spread to adults and pointed towards a toxin agent rather than an infectious.

The links between the contaminated medicine&nbsp;and children's&nbsp;deaths came to light in October 2022, when the World Health Organization (WHO) raised an alert saying four cough syrups made by India's Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd contain toxic levels of diethylene and ethylene glycol and should be stopped.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cough-syrups-linked-to-uzbekistan-deaths-should-not-be-used-for-kids-says-who-551885">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Indian cough syrups linked to kids’ deaths in Uzbekistan should not be used, says WHO</a>

Maiden has repeatedly denied that its drugs were at fault for the deaths in Gambia and even the Indian government said that the syrups did not show any contamination when it tested them.&nbsp;

The company might resume work. Production had been stopped in October.

There have been several poisoning linked to diethylene and ethylene glycol in the past, in countries including Haiti and Nigeria.

Since deaths in the Gambia, over 200 children died in Indonesia, and 19 in Uzbekistan, all linked to different cough syrups.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp;

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The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with Gambian scientists have concluded that the contaminated cough syrups imported into Gambia are likely the cause of the deaths of 66 children due to acute kidney injury.

The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with Gambian scientists have concluded that the contaminated cough syrups imported into Gambia are likely the cause of the deaths of 66 children due to acute kidney injury. The report published in the New England Journal of Medicine on Thursday strongly suggested that medicines contaminated with the toxins led to a cluster of acute kidney injuries among 78 kids, and 66 deaths between June and September 2022. Also read | WHO to probe Indian, Indonesian firms over cough syrup linked deaths: Report The official death toll now stands at 70, after four more children died since September 2022. Most of the kids were aged under two. The conclusions were reached after examination of medical records of patients and interviewes with parents and caregivers. It also mentioned other evidences contributing to the conclusion such as the tests of the medicines, the fact that the illness did not spread to adults and pointed towards a toxin agent rather than an infectious. The links between the contaminated medicine and children's deaths came to light in October 2022, when the World Health Organization (WHO) raised an alert saying four cough syrups made by India's Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd contain toxic levels of diethylene and ethylene glycol and should be stopped. Also read | Indian cough syrups linked to kids’ deaths in Uzbekistan should not be used, says WHO Maiden has repeatedly denied that its drugs were at fault for the deaths in Gambia and even the Indian government said that the syrups did not show any contamination when it tested them. The company might resume work. Production had been stopped in October. There have been several poisoning linked to diethylene and ethylene glycol in the past, in countries including Haiti and Nigeria. Since deaths in the Gambia, over 200 children died in Indonesia, and 19 in Uzbekistan, all linked to different cough syrups. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gambia cough syrup deaths: US CDC concludes contaminated medicines likely to blame

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-appoints-two-prominent-indian-american-corporate-leaders-to-his-export-council-567225">Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council</a>

Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians.&nbsp;

The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit&nbsp;to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary</a>

Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-bans-tiktok-on-work-devices-amid-data-security-breaches-567233">EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches</a>

Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara.&nbsp;Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday. The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians. The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster. Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara. Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey. 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 Tedros visits rebel-held region in Syria after tragic quake in first such visit

A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation. While tests are carried out in Madrid, the patient has been transferred from a private hospital to an isolation unit at the Hospital La Fe in the Valencia region of Spain, news agency Reuters reported. 
 
Equatorial Guinea has so far registered nine deaths and 16 suspected cases of the disease after an outbreak earlier this month forced isolation of 200 people.&nbsp; Two suspected cases were detected in Cameroon also. &nbsp;

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Marburg virus disease is "a highly virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent". There are no vaccines or approved antiviral treatments linked to the deadly virus yet.

Also watch |&nbsp; Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting

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&nbsp;

<h2>Experts on Marburg virus</h2>

Marburg virus, the WHO has said, is in the same family of the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. The disease was initially detected in 1967 when two large outbreaks were reported simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia. "The outbreak was associated with laboratory work using African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda," the world health body underlined. Since then, infections have been reported from Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda.

Read | Explained: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-marburg-virus-outbreak-reaches-cameroon-know-about-symptoms-treatment-and-origin-562228">Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin</a>

The reservoir host of Marburg virus is the African fruit bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, as per the US drug regulator Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The cave-dwelling bat is found widely across Africa. "Fruit bats infected with Marburg virus do not show obvious signs of illness. Primates&nbsp;(including people) can become infected with Marburg virus, and may develop serious disease with high mortality," the CDC has explained on its official website.

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A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation.

A 34-year-old man has been isolated in Spain as health authorities suspect that he contracted Ebola-like Marburg virus during his stay in Equatorial Guinea, a small African nation. While tests are carried out in Madrid, the patient has been transferred from a private hospital to an isolation unit at the Hospital La Fe in the Valencia region of Spain, news agency Reuters reported. Equatorial Guinea has so far registered nine deaths and 16 suspected cases of the disease after an outbreak earlier this month forced isolation of 200 people. Two suspected cases were detected in Cameroon also. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Marburg virus disease is "a highly virulent disease that causes hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality ratio of up to 88 per cent". There are no vaccines or approved antiviral treatments linked to the deadly virus yet. Also watch | Gravitas: Equatorial Guinea reports 9 Marburg deaths. WHO calls for an emergency meeting × Experts on Marburg virus Marburg virus, the WHO has said, is in the same family of the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. The disease was initially detected in 1967 when two large outbreaks were reported simultaneously in Marburg and Frankfurt in Germany, and in Belgrade, Serbia. "The outbreak was associated with laboratory work using African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda," the world health body underlined. Since then, infections have been reported from Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda. Read | Explained: Marburg virus outbreak reaches Cameroon, know about symptoms, treatment and origin The reservoir host of Marburg virus is the African fruit bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus, as per the US drug regulator Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The cave-dwelling bat is found widely across Africa. "Fruit bats infected with Marburg virus do not show obvious signs of illness. Primates (including people) can become infected with Marburg virus, and may develop serious disease with high mortality," the CDC has explained on its official website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Spain detects first suspected case of Ebola-like Marburg virus: Report

An 11-year-old girl in Cambodia has lost her life to&nbsp;bird flu, also known as avian influenza, Associated Press reported quoting health officials.&nbsp;This is the first known human H5N1 infection in Cambodia since 2014.

In 2014, new human cases of avian influenza were confirmed for the H5N1 virus in the country. As per World Health Organization, H5N1 avian influenza viruses circulate in poultry and pose&nbsp;a risk for sporadic infection due to exposure to infected poultry.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-commission-bans-staff-from-using-tiktok-on-work-devices-amid-security-concerns-565148">European Commission bans staff from using TikTok on work devices amid security concerns</a>

The first outbreak of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus in humans occurred in Hong Kong in 1997. Till that year, the cases of bird flu were not taken to be posing a major threat. The 1997 outbreak was put to an end by a carrying out a massive culling of over 1.5 million chickens.&nbsp;

Even though many of these cases are a result of direct touch with infected poultry, it must be noted that the nature of influenza viruses are constantly evolving. With this, there are concerns if the virus could evolve to spread more easily between people.

The newly reported case is from the rural southeastern province of Prey Veng. The girl fell sick on February 16 and was taken to a Phnom Penh hospital.&nbsp;Later on Wednesday, she was diagnosed with a fever of up to 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit) along with other symptoms including coughing and throat pain. Soon, she was declared dead, the news agency said quoting country's health ministry.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-year-of-war-against-ukraine-acting-together-to-ensure-international-law-will-prevail-565158">One year of war against Ukraine: Acting together to ensure international law will prevail</a>

Medical officials took samples from a dead wild bird at a conservation area near the girl's home to understand the virus better. The ministry said teams in the area would be cautioning residents about touching dead and sick birds. As per WHO, Cambodia had 56 human cases of H5N1 from 2003 through 2014 and 37 of them were fatal.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-talks-of-boosting-nuclear-forces-565118">Russia Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin talks of boosting nuclear forces</a>

Earlier this month,&nbsp;WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus flagged concern about avian influenza infections in mammals.&nbsp;"H5N1 has spread widely in wild birds and poultry for 25 years, but the recent spillover to mammals needs to be monitored closely," he had said.

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An 11-year-old girl in Cambodia has lost her life to bird flu, also known as avian influenza, Associated Press reported quoting health officials. This is the first known human H5N1 infection in Cambodia since 2014.

An 11-year-old girl in Cambodia has lost her life to bird flu, also known as avian influenza, Associated Press reported quoting health officials. This is the first known human H5N1 infection in Cambodia since 2014. In 2014, new human cases of avian influenza were confirmed for the H5N1 virus in the country. As per World Health Organization, H5N1 avian influenza viruses circulate in poultry and pose a risk for sporadic infection due to exposure to infected poultry. Also Read | European Commission bans staff from using TikTok on work devices amid security concerns The first outbreak of avian influenza A (H5N1) virus in humans occurred in Hong Kong in 1997. Till that year, the cases of bird flu were not taken to be posing a major threat. The 1997 outbreak was put to an end by a carrying out a massive culling of over 1.5 million chickens. Even though many of these cases are a result of direct touch with infected poultry, it must be noted that the nature of influenza viruses are constantly evolving. With this, there are concerns if the virus could evolve to spread more easily between people. The newly reported case is from the rural southeastern province of Prey Veng. The girl fell sick on February 16 and was taken to a Phnom Penh hospital. Later on Wednesday, she was diagnosed with a fever of up to 39 Celsius (102 Fahrenheit) along with other symptoms including coughing and throat pain. Soon, she was declared dead, the news agency said quoting country's health ministry. Also Read | One year of war against Ukraine: Acting together to ensure international law will prevail Medical officials took samples from a dead wild bird at a conservation area near the girl's home to understand the virus better. The ministry said teams in the area would be cautioning residents about touching dead and sick birds. As per WHO, Cambodia had 56 human cases of H5N1 from 2003 through 2014 and 37 of them were fatal. Watch | Russia Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin talks of boosting nuclear forces Earlier this month, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus flagged concern about avian influenza infections in mammals. "H5N1 has spread widely in wild birds and poultry for 25 years, but the recent spillover to mammals needs to be monitored closely," he had said. 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.

11-year old girl dies in Cambodia’s first bird flu case since 2014

Citizens living in India’s financial capital city Mumbai are neither fit nor healthy, reveals civic body BMC's health department in a STEPS (STEP-wise approach to Surveillance) survey devised by World Health Organisation (WHO). Total 5,199 citizens were surveyed from August to December 2021.

The survey found every third of Mumbaikar has hypertension, while every fifth has diabetes and another 15 per cent are pre-diabetic. Approximately, 8% of the surveyed population have both diabetes and hypertension.

Mumbaikars consume almost double the daily recommended amount of salt. While WHO recommends only 5g salt to be consumed, respondents consume 8.6g of salt.

STEPS survey also showed that one in five respondents has raised levels of cholesterol — a marker of heart disease. Almost 37 per cent in the 18-69 age group have three out of six factors of heart disease.

To remain fit and healthy, doctors advise to do basic exercise and eat healthy like fruits, vegetables etc., but the survey found that 74 per cent of respondents reported no fitness related physical activity in their daily routine.

“We now have a proper health chart of people living in Mumbai. To control hypertension and diabetes, we have started screening people and putting them on treatment. Overweight and obesity are also other common issues that citizens are facing. Our survey found almost 12 per cent of respondents are obese. More women than men are obese in the city,” said Dr Daksha Shah, BMC's joint executive health officer.

Other survey highlights

- 12% consume tobacco daily

- Nine out of 10 Mumbaikars don' eat fruits or vegetables

- 15% surveyed population is pre-diabetic

&nbsp;

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Citizens living in India’s financial capital city Mumbai are neither fit nor healthy, reveals civic body BMC's health department in a STEPS (STEP-wise approach to Surveillance) survey devised by World Health Organisation (WHO).

Citizens living in India’s financial capital city Mumbai are neither fit nor healthy, reveals civic body BMC's health department in a STEPS (STEP-wise approach to Surveillance) survey devised by World Health Organisation (WHO). Total 5,199 citizens were surveyed from August to December 2021. The survey found every third of Mumbaikar has hypertension, while every fifth has diabetes and another 15 per cent are pre-diabetic. Approximately, 8% of the surveyed population have both diabetes and hypertension. Mumbaikars consume almost double the daily recommended amount of salt. While WHO recommends only 5g salt to be consumed, respondents consume 8.6g of salt. STEPS survey also showed that one in five respondents has raised levels of cholesterol — a marker of heart disease. Almost 37 per cent in the 18-69 age group have three out of six factors of heart disease. To remain fit and healthy, doctors advise to do basic exercise and eat healthy like fruits, vegetables etc., but the survey found that 74 per cent of respondents reported no fitness related physical activity in their daily routine. “We now have a proper health chart of people living in Mumbai. To control hypertension and diabetes, we have started screening people and putting them on treatment. Overweight and obesity are also other common issues that citizens are facing. Our survey found almost 12 per cent of respondents are obese. More women than men are obese in the city,” said Dr Daksha Shah, BMC's joint executive health officer. Other survey highlights - 12% consume tobacco daily - Nine out of 10 Mumbaikars don' eat fruits or vegetables - 15% surveyed population is pre-diabetic WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Mumbai people neither fit nor healthy, reveals new govt survey

A woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth every two minutes, a new report by United Nations agencies released on Thursday (February 23) revealed. Lives of over one million more women may be at risk by 2030, "Trends in maternal mortality", the report, further underlines unless significant progress is made worldwide to meet global targets for reducing maternal deaths. Maternal deaths - nationally, regionally and globally from 2000 to 2020 - have been tracked as a part of the report. About 287,000 maternal deaths were recorded globally in 2020. A majority of these deaths have been recorded from the poorest of poor regions and conflict zones.

&nbsp;

<h2>WHO chief, others on maternal death alarming figures</h2>

 
“While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world who lack access to high quality, respectful health care,” Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), was quoted as saying in an official release. In her response, UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem stressed upon the need for political will to face the challenge. "It is unacceptable that so many women continue to die needlessly in pregnancy and childbirth. Over 280,000 fatalities in a single year is unconscionable. We can and must do better by urgently investing in family planning and filling the global shortage of 900,000 midwives so that every woman can get the lifesaving care she needs," she said.

Watch: Gravitas Plus: The world's fertility rate is falling. Here's why

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>Maternal deaths: Worst-affected parts</h2>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

About 70 per cent of all maternal deaths in 2020 were registered in sub-Saharan Africa. Nine countries in the grips of severe humanitarian crises recorded maternal mortality rates more than double the world average as 551 maternal deaths were registered per 100,000 live births, compared to 223 globally.&nbsp; Among the leading causes of the deaths are severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, and complications from unsafe abortion. About 270 million women lack access to modern family planning methods.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-country-has-the-worlds-lowest-fertility-rate-breaks-its-own-record-564845">This country has the world's lowest fertility rate, breaks its own record</a>

However, several nations have been registering an improvement in the situation as far as these figures are concerned. Australia and New Zealand, and Central and South Asia experienced significant declines by 35 per cent and 16 per cent respectively in their maternal mortality rates during the same period, as did 31 countries across the world.

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A woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth every two minutes, a new report by United Nations agencies released on Thursday (February 23) revealed. Lives of over one million more women may be at risk by 2030, "Trends in maternal mortality", the report, further underlines unless significant progress is made worldwide to meet global targets for reducing maternal deaths.

A woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth every two minutes, a new report by United Nations agencies released on Thursday (February 23) revealed. Lives of over one million more women may be at risk by 2030, "Trends in maternal mortality", the report, further underlines unless significant progress is made worldwide to meet global targets for reducing maternal deaths. Maternal deaths - nationally, regionally and globally from 2000 to 2020 - have been tracked as a part of the report. About 287,000 maternal deaths were recorded globally in 2020. A majority of these deaths have been recorded from the poorest of poor regions and conflict zones. WHO chief, others on maternal death alarming figures “While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world who lack access to high quality, respectful health care,” Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), was quoted as saying in an official release. In her response, UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem stressed upon the need for political will to face the challenge. "It is unacceptable that so many women continue to die needlessly in pregnancy and childbirth. Over 280,000 fatalities in a single year is unconscionable. We can and must do better by urgently investing in family planning and filling the global shortage of 900,000 midwives so that every woman can get the lifesaving care she needs," she said. Watch: Gravitas Plus: The world's fertility rate is falling. Here's why × Maternal deaths: Worst-affected parts About 70 per cent of all maternal deaths in 2020 were registered in sub-Saharan Africa. Nine countries in the grips of severe humanitarian crises recorded maternal mortality rates more than double the world average as 551 maternal deaths were registered per 100,000 live births, compared to 223 globally. Among the leading causes of the deaths are severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, and complications from unsafe abortion. About 270 million women lack access to modern family planning methods. Also read: This country has the world's lowest fertility rate, breaks its own record However, several nations have been registering an improvement in the situation as far as these figures are concerned. Australia and New Zealand, and Central and South Asia experienced significant declines by 35 per cent and 16 per cent respectively in their maternal mortality rates during the same period, as did 31 countries across the world. 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 report's staggering revelation on maternal deaths: 1 death every 2 minutes

A severe form of mpox virus - formerly known as monkeypox - has been found in immunosuppressed people living with HIV in advanced stage, a new study has underlined. The study - published in The Lancet journal - underlined that the virus was fatal in 15 per cent of those who were affected. "Emerging data suggest worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality in people with more advanced HIV," the report underlines. Professor Chloe Orkin, at Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health NHS trust, and colleagues carried out the study following reports of particularly severe mpox infections. A total of 382 cases were examined as a part of the study.

<h2>Defining symptoms of severe mpox</h2>

On Twitter, the scientist explained defining symptoms. "Skin rash was prolonged. The hallmark feature of this severe disseminated form of MPOX was large coalescing and necrotising lesions which occurred in 93 per cent of those who died. Sepsis occurred in 89 per cent of those who died and respiratory symptoms in 85 per cent," Orkin tweeted.

An immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome to mpox, researchers pointed out, was suspected in 21 (25 per cent) of 85 people initiated, of whom 12 (57 per cent) of 21 died.&nbsp; Of the total 382 cases, 367 were men.

Also Watch| WION Fineprint: Monkeypox gets new name Mpox

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<h2>The multicountry mpox outbreak</h2>

The multicountry mpox outbreak triggered massive concerns last year as experts feared another pandemic. More than 85,000 cases have been so far reported, as of February 15, linked to the virus which was at one time largely confined to Africa, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of the total cases, 84,590 patients were registered in locations that have not historically reported mpox.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-maintains-its-stance-public-health-emergency-alert-for-mpox-562453">WHO maintains its stance; public health emergency alert for mpox to continue</a>

In November, the World Health Organization (WHO) changed the name of the virus from monkeypox to mpox over concerns of stigma associated with the name. "When the outbreak of monkeypox expanded earlier this year, racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings and in some communities was observed and reported to WHO. In several meetings, public and private, a number of individuals and countries raised concerns and asked WHO to propose a way forward to change the name," the global health body noted.

&nbsp;

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A severe form of mpox virus - formerly known as monkeypox - has been found in immunosuppressed people living with HIV in advanced stage, a new study has underlined.

A severe form of mpox virus - formerly known as monkeypox - has been found in immunosuppressed people living with HIV in advanced stage, a new study has underlined. The study - published in The Lancet journal - underlined that the virus was fatal in 15 per cent of those who were affected. "Emerging data suggest worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality in people with more advanced HIV," the report underlines. Professor Chloe Orkin, at Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health NHS trust, and colleagues carried out the study following reports of particularly severe mpox infections. A total of 382 cases were examined as a part of the study. Defining symptoms of severe mpox On Twitter, the scientist explained defining symptoms. "Skin rash was prolonged. The hallmark feature of this severe disseminated form of MPOX was large coalescing and necrotising lesions which occurred in 93 per cent of those who died. Sepsis occurred in 89 per cent of those who died and respiratory symptoms in 85 per cent," Orkin tweeted. An immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome to mpox, researchers pointed out, was suspected in 21 (25 per cent) of 85 people initiated, of whom 12 (57 per cent) of 21 died. Of the total 382 cases, 367 were men. Also Watch| WION Fineprint: Monkeypox gets new name Mpox × The multicountry mpox outbreak The multicountry mpox outbreak triggered massive concerns last year as experts feared another pandemic. More than 85,000 cases have been so far reported, as of February 15, linked to the virus which was at one time largely confined to Africa, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of the total cases, 84,590 patients were registered in locations that have not historically reported mpox. Also read: WHO maintains its stance; public health emergency alert for mpox to continue In November, the World Health Organization (WHO) changed the name of the virus from monkeypox to mpox over concerns of stigma associated with the name. "When the outbreak of monkeypox expanded earlier this year, racist and stigmatising language online, in other settings and in some communities was observed and reported to WHO. In several meetings, public and private, a number of individuals and countries raised concerns and asked WHO to propose a way forward to change the name," the global health body noted. 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.

Deadlier mpox virus found in people with advanced HIV: Lancet Study

The World Health Organization on Wednesday said that despite a dip in the number of cases, it still considers mpox, previously known as monkeypox, an international health emergency.&nbsp; WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as per AFP, reached this&nbsp;conclusion following the recommendations of the UN health agency's emergency committee. The committee met last Friday.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Monkeypox gets new name Mpox

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Speaking to the press, Tedros said, "The committee has advised me that in its view, mpox remains a global health emergency, and I have accepted that advice."&nbsp;

Officials noticed a surge in what was earlier known as monkeypox infections last May. 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;To date, 85,860 cases have been reported from 110 countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-to-rename-monkeypox-as-mpox-after-pressure-from-us-report-536629">WHO to rename monkeypox as ‘MPOX’ over stigma, pressure from US: Report</a>

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.

However, last May, cases of the disease began spreading rapidly around the world. Following the sudden influx of cases,&nbsp;the WHO on&nbsp;July 23, 2022, triggered a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-nitty-gritty-of-monkeypox-500608" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/science/the-nitty-gritty-of-monkeypox-500608&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjpsvqlj5j9AhXVR2wGHaAGBccQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0mZT85gPQorUgduTePQVHb" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-nitty-gritty-of-monkeypox-500608" target="_blank">The nitty-gritty of&nbsp;Monkeypox&nbsp;</a>

Since then, the WHO's emergency committee on mpox meets every three months to determine the validity of the said&nbsp;label. As per Tedros, while the&nbsp;committee acknowledged the progress made in reducing transmission of the diseases, 30 nations are still reporting cases. He also pointed out that in some of the regions,&nbsp;not all cases might have been detected and reported. Due to this, he said all&nbsp;countries should remain vigilant.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organization on Wednesday said that despite a dip in the number of cases, it still considers mpox, previously known as monkeypox, an international health emergency.

The World Health Organization on Wednesday said that despite a dip in the number of cases, it still considers mpox, previously known as monkeypox, an international health emergency. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, as per AFP, reached this conclusion following the recommendations of the UN health agency's emergency committee. The committee met last Friday. Watch | WION Fineprint: Monkeypox gets new name Mpox Speaking to the press, Tedros said, "The committee has advised me that in its view, mpox remains a global health emergency, and I have accepted that advice." Officials noticed a surge in what was earlier known as monkeypox infections last May. The surge outside African countries where the infection has long been an endemic was noticed among men who have sex with men. To date, 85,860 cases have been reported from 110 countries. Also read | WHO to rename monkeypox as ‘MPOX’ over stigma, pressure from US: Report 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. However, last May, cases of the disease began spreading rapidly around the world. Following the sudden influx of cases, the WHO on July 23, 2022, triggered a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). Also read | The nitty-gritty of Monkeypox Since then, the WHO's emergency committee on mpox meets every three months to determine the validity of the said label. As per Tedros, while the committee acknowledged the progress made in reducing transmission of the diseases, 30 nations are still reporting cases. He also pointed out that in some of the regions, not all cases might have been detected and reported. Due to this, he said all countries should remain vigilant. (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 maintains its stance; public health emergency alert for mpox to continue

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Tuesday that the monkeypox outbreak still qualifies as a global health emergency and should be treated as such.&nbsp;

As per Reuters, a "public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)", is WHO's highest level of alert and is designed to trigger a coordinated international response and could unlock funding to collaborate on sharing vaccines and treatments.

Watch |&nbsp;'Do not touch foreigners to avoid monkeypox', Chinese doctor tells citizens

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This was done following the third meeting of the International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee regarding the multi-country outbreak of monkeypox, held on October 22.

Since the last meeting, improvements have been made in the international response to the multi-nation monkeypox outbreak, including a new understanding of the efficacy of behavioural therapies and vaccines, said the WHO Emergency Committee.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-reports-first-community-transmission-of-monkeypox-two-new-cases-522891">New Zealand reports first community transmission of monkeypox, two new cases</a>

However, the Committee voiced its belief that the situation still satisfies the IHR's requirements for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

As per the committee, a number of reasons are contributing to the ongoing concerns.

These include "ongoing transmission in some regions, continuing preparedness and response inequity within and between WHO Member States, an emerging potential for greater health impact in vulnerable populations, continuing risk of stigma and discrimination, weak health systems in some developing countries, leading to under-reporting, ongoing lack of equitable access to diagnostics, antiviral and vaccines, and research gaps" that need to be addressed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-early-data-shows-monkeypox-vaccine-to-be-highly-effective-520682">US: Early data shows monkeypox vaccine to be highly effective</a>

It further acknowledged that while cases are declining globally, the "picture is mixed".

The risk assessment conducted by the WHO Secretariat concluded that as of 18 October 2022, the public health risk remains moderate globally.

Regionally, the risk was rated as high for the WHO region of the Americas, moderate in the European region (where it went from high to moderate), and low in the Western Pacific region. It remains moderate in the WHO regions of Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and South-East Asia.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Tuesday that the monkeypox outbreak still qualifies as a global health emergency and should be treated as such. As per Reuters, a "public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)", is WHO's highest level of alert and is designed to trigger a coordinated international response and could unlock funding to collaborate on sharing vaccines and treatments.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on Tuesday that the monkeypox outbreak still qualifies as a global health emergency and should be treated as such. As per Reuters, a "public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)", is WHO's highest level of alert and is designed to trigger a coordinated international response and could unlock funding to collaborate on sharing vaccines and treatments. Watch | 'Do not touch foreigners to avoid monkeypox', Chinese doctor tells citizens This was done following the third meeting of the International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee regarding the multi-country outbreak of monkeypox, held on October 22. Since the last meeting, improvements have been made in the international response to the multi-nation monkeypox outbreak, including a new understanding of the efficacy of behavioural therapies and vaccines, said the WHO Emergency Committee. Also read | New Zealand reports first community transmission of monkeypox, two new cases However, the Committee voiced its belief that the situation still satisfies the IHR's requirements for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As per the committee, a number of reasons are contributing to the ongoing concerns. These include "ongoing transmission in some regions, continuing preparedness and response inequity within and between WHO Member States, an emerging potential for greater health impact in vulnerable populations, continuing risk of stigma and discrimination, weak health systems in some developing countries, leading to under-reporting, ongoing lack of equitable access to diagnostics, antiviral and vaccines, and research gaps" that need to be addressed. Also read | US: Early data shows monkeypox vaccine to be highly effective It further acknowledged that while cases are declining globally, the "picture is mixed". The risk assessment conducted by the WHO Secretariat concluded that as of 18 October 2022, the public health risk remains moderate globally. Regionally, the risk was rated as high for the WHO region of the Americas, moderate in the European region (where it went from high to moderate), and low in the Western Pacific region. It remains moderate in the WHO regions of Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and South-East Asia. (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.

Cases declining but monkeypox remains a 'global health emergency': WHO

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