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WHO Urges Boost in TB Research and Innovation to Tackle High Burden in South-East Asia

/ Health & Wellness Community

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent call to enhance research, innovation, and regional cooperation to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) in the South-East Asia region — a region that continues to carry nearly half of the global TB burden. Speaking at the launch of a three-day virtual workshop focused on advancing TB research and innovation, Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge for WHO South-East Asia, emphasized that in 2023 alone, the region saw nearly 5 million new TB cases and around 600,000 related deaths. The workshop brings together national TB programme leaders, scientists, civil society members, and global partners to push forward efforts aligned with the WHO’s End TB Strategy. The Need for Urgency and Collaboration Dr. Boehme highlighted that ending TB demands the rapid adoption of new tools, diagnostics, and treatments — and, more importantly, equitable and timely access to these innovations. “Collaboration is key to scaling up impact and ensuring that no one is left behind,” she stated. Despite a post-COVID-19 rebound in TB case detection in 2023, current progress is falling short of the End TB Strategy’s 2030 goals: a 90% drop in TB-related deaths and an 80% decline in incidence compared to 2015. Alarmingly, TB has returned as the world’s leading cause of death from a single infectious disease, with its effects disproportionately hitting the poorest and most vulnerable communities. In South-East Asia, between 30% and 80% of TB-affected households experience catastrophic healthcare expenses, pointing to the urgent need for inclusive, people-first approaches and stronger social protection systems. Signs of Progress Amidst Challenges Still, there are signs of advancement. In 2023, the region recorded 3.8 million new or relapsed TB cases, with an 89% treatment success rate among those who began treatment in 2022. The number of undiagnosed cases was significantly reduced — down to 22% from 44% in 2020. Countries are increasingly adopting technology-driven solutions such as artificial intelligence for detecting TB, digital adherence tools to monitor treatment, and direct benefit transfers to ease patients’ financial burdens. These innovations are being powered by strong political will and national commitment. Several countries have also expanded research efforts. Bangladesh has concluded a national patient cost survey, while India’s RATIONS study provided valuable insights on the role of nutrition in TB prevention and recovery. Nepal’s “TB-Free Pallika” initiative and Myanmar’s multisectoral coordination model are examples of community-led innovations that prioritize vulnerable populations. According to WHO, over 3,000 TB-related research papers were published by South-East Asian countries in the past six years, with 60% being original research. However, the challenge lies in transforming these findings into action, as knowledge gaps and lack of collaborative platforms hinder broader impact. Strengthening Regional and Global Coordination The workshop will also focus on building stronger South-South collaboration, vaccine readiness, use of digital tools for patient care, and tackling vaccine hesitancy. Discussions will revolve around aligning regulatory frameworks, improving knowledge-sharing platforms, and setting research priorities that address underlying drivers of TB — such as malnutrition and climate-related risks. Dr. Boehme noted the growing threat posed by drug-resistant TB and emphasized the importance of ensuring that scientific progress benefits everyone equally. “Access to new vaccines, medicines, and diagnostics must be equitable. Reaching underserved communities through proactive case-finding and offering socio-economic support is essential in mitigating the financial toll of TB,” she concluded. Source: PTI Photo Credit: Getty Images

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India May Face Over 1.6 Million Gastric Cancer Cases, Global Study Warns

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new international study published in Nature Medicine has sounded the alarm over a possible surge in gastric cancer cases, predicting that more than 15 million individuals born between 2008 and 2017 could develop the disease globally during their lifetime. India is projected to bear a significant burden, second only to China, with an estimated 1.6 million cases if current prevention efforts remain unchanged. The research, led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research wing of the World Health Organization, used global cancer incidence data from GLOBOCAN 2022 along with UN demographic forecasts. It found that nearly two-thirds of future gastric cancer cases will likely emerge in Asia, with India and China alone expected to contribute about 6.5 million new diagnoses. A key finding of the study highlights that 76% of these cases could be linked to Helicobacter pylori—a widespread and chronic bacterial infection of the stomach that significantly increases cancer risk. Despite being preventable and treatable, H. pylori remains a major health challenge in many countries. Gastric cancer is currently the fifth most deadly cancer worldwide. The study also points to an anticipated six-fold rise in cases across sub-Saharan Africa, where the current incidence is relatively low. Experts behind the research are urging governments to invest in large-scale preventive measures—especially in screening and treatment programs targeting H. pylori. They stress that such interventions could slash future cancer cases by as much as 75%. The researchers warn that an ageing global population, along with rising cancer rates in younger people, could undo recent progress in cancer control if swift action is not taken. The findings reinforce the urgent need for countries, particularly in Asia, to enhance public health strategies focusing on early diagnosis, education, and bacterial eradication to curb the looming threat of gastric cancer. Source: CNBCTV18

India May Face Over 1.6 Million Gastric Cancer Cases, Global Study Warns Read More »

Highly Contagious COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 Spreads from China to the US

/ Uncategorized
Ardorcomm news

A newly emerging COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1 — known for its high transmissibility and recent surge in China — has now been identified in the United States, including cases in New York City, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The variant was first detected among international travelers entering the U.S. between late March and early April through airports in California, Washington State, Virginia, and New York. Since then, additional infections have been reported in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. Although the U.S. case count remains relatively small, public health experts are monitoring the situation closely due to the variant’s rapid spread across Asia, where it has become the leading strain. In Hong Kong, the NB.1.8.1 variant has led to a significant rise in hospital admissions and emergency visits, particularly affecting senior citizens. Reports indicate that within a span of four weeks, the city recorded 81 severe cases and 30 fatalities, primarily among individuals aged 65 and older. Mainland China has also seen a steep increase in COVID-positive patients in emergency departments, along with a spike in hospitalizations. However, Chinese health authorities maintain that the variant does not pose a greater threat than earlier strains. U.S. experts are taking a more cautious stance. Dr. Amy Edwards of Case Western Reserve University noted that while NB.1.8.1 may not result in more severe illness, its rapid transmission is concerning. “There’s a clear increase in hospital activity in places like China and Hong Kong,” she told CBS News. CDC data shows that those carrying the variant had traveled from countries including China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, France, Spain, and Taiwan — suggesting broader international transmission. NB.1.8.1 presents symptoms similar to prior variants — including fatigue, fever, sore throat, and coughing — but scientists believe it has a “growth advantage,” potentially allowing it to spread more efficiently. Dr. Subhash Verma from the University of Nevada highlighted this increased transmissibility as a cause for concern. In Hong Kong, Dr. Edwin Tsui of the Centre for Health Protection urged vigilance, warning that the variant might be more adept at bypassing existing vaccine defenses. Health officials there are tracking the variant’s evolution in line with World Health Organization (WHO) guidance. The emergence of NB.1.8.1 coincides with changes to U.S. COVID-19 vaccine policy. The CDC recently updated its guidelines, advising against routine vaccination for healthy children and pregnant women. Future booster shots will primarily target high-risk populations, such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Source: NDTV Photo Credit: Reuters

Highly Contagious COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 Spreads from China to the US Read More »

India Joins Global Pandemic Treaty; PM Emphasizes Role of Global South in World Health

/ Health & Wellness Community

In a landmark step towards bolstering global health security and future pandemic preparedness, India has officially joined other WHO member nations in endorsing the Pandemic Treaty during the 78th World Health Assembly held in Geneva. Addressing the assembly, the Prime Minister highlighted the critical need for inclusive global healthcare, stating, “The future of a healthy world depends on inclusion, and the health of the world depends on how well we care for the most vulnerable, especially in the Global South who are particularly impacted by health challenges.” He also drew attention to India’s domestic strides in public health, mentioning that government health spending has surged while citizens’ out-of-pocket medical costs have declined significantly. He credited this progress to flagship initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, which extends free healthcare coverage to over 580 million people, and to the proliferation of affordable public pharmacies. “India has established a vast network of Health and Wellness Centres (HWC) that offer screening for major conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. India’s digital platform to track vaccination of pregnant women and children is helping to integrate benefits, insurance, records, and information,” the Prime Minister said. The assembly’s primary goal this year was the finalization of the Global Pandemic Treaty, and the Prime Minister commended the efforts of the WHO and all negotiating nations. “India’s initiatives have brought down out-of-pocket expenditure as a percentage of total health expenditure significantly, while government health expenditure has increased considerably,” he added. A WHO statement confirmed the treaty’s adoption during a plenary session of the assembly, which serves as the organization’s highest decision-making body. The treaty was approved by vote in committee, with 124 nations in favor and 11 abstaining. No country formally opposed the agreement. The Pandemic Agreement outlines key principles and strategies to enhance international collaboration in areas like vaccine access, diagnostics, and treatment distribution, all aimed at reinforcing global preparedness and response to health emergencies. However, the agreement was adopted without participation from the United States, a major WHO donor, which had previously halted its funding commitments to the organization earlier this year. Source: Economic Times  

India Joins Global Pandemic Treaty; PM Emphasizes Role of Global South in World Health Read More »

WHO Prepares for Life After U.S. Exit Amid Deep Budget Cuts and Donor Shift

/ Health & Wellness Community

As the World Health Organization (WHO) prepares for its annual assembly in Geneva starting May 19, a significant shift looms over the global health body: how to navigate a future without its top financial backer, the United States. The week-long gathering, typically a forum for setting health priorities and policy, approving vaccines, and coordinating international disease responses, is this year overshadowed by the U.S. decision to leave the organization. In January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order initiating the year-long withdrawal process on his first day back in office. With the U.S. accounting for roughly 18% of the WHO’s funding, officials are now grappling with how to stretch limited resources. “Our goal is to focus on the high-value stuff,” said Daniel Thornton, WHO’s director of coordinated resource mobilisation. While specifics remain under discussion, internal planning documents seen by Reuters suggest the agency will prioritize its emergency response and medicine approval efforts, while scaling back on training programs and potentially closing offices in high-income countries. Key health guidance on vaccines and diseases such as HIV and obesity is expected to continue. A Western diplomat, speaking anonymously, acknowledged the challenge ahead: “We’ve got to make do with what we have.” WHO staff have already begun budget and personnel cuts in anticipation of the funding shortfall. Though the U.S. remains a member until January 21, 2026, under the legally mandated transition period, signs of a policy reversal are slim. President Trump initially left the door open to rejoining if the organization “clean it up,” but health envoys say no concrete steps have followed. In the meantime, WHO faces an immediate budget gap of $600 million this year, with deeper cuts—up to 21%—expected over the next two years. As the U.S. steps back, China is poised to become the largest contributor of assessed contributions—one of WHO’s key funding streams. China’s share will rise from over 15% to 20% following a 2022 funding restructure. “We have to adapt ourselves to multilateral organisations without the Americans. Life goes on,” said Chen Xu, China’s ambassador to Geneva. The evolving donor landscape has prompted calls for deeper reform. Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, questioned whether the organization still needs its vast array of committees or to publish thousands of documents each year. He added that the transition was forcing a reassessment of operations, including whether WHO should handle routine logistics like fuel purchases during crises. Soni emphasized the urgency of sustaining vital programs amid the funding squeeze, noting that the agency is increasingly turning to philanthropies and the private sector for targeted support. The ELMA Foundation, for instance, recently contributed $2 million to support the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network, which includes over 700 labs monitoring infectious disease threats. Alongside pandemic preparedness agreements and an investment round to court new donors, funding will remain the central concern at the Geneva meeting. A WHO manager’s recent request for staff to volunteer as ushers—without extra pay—reflects the broader austerity mindset taking hold. Source: Reuters Photo Credit: Reuters

WHO Prepares for Life After U.S. Exit Amid Deep Budget Cuts and Donor Shift Read More »

Three Million Child Deaths Linked to Drug Resistance: A Global Health Crisis

/ Health & Wellness Community

A recent global study has sounded alarm bells over the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), revealing that 3 million child deaths in 2022 were linked to infections no longer responding to standard antibiotics. The report, compiled by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (Australia) and the Clinton Health Access Initiative, highlights how AMR is fast becoming a global health crisis—particularly affecting children in Africa and Southeast Asia. AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, or fungi evolve to resist the effects of medicines that once worked against them. As a result, common infections become harder—and sometimes impossible—to treat. This “silent pandemic” has been aggravated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, especially in countries like India, which has been flagged as a hotspot due to regulatory gaps and easy access to drugs. Key findings include: 3 million global child deaths in 2022 were AMR-related. 752,000 child deaths occurred in Southeast Asia, and 659,000 in Africa. Use of ‘watch antibiotics’ (for serious infections) rose by 126% in Africa and 160% in Southeast Asia from 2019 to 2021. Use of ‘reserve antibiotics’ (last-resort drugs) increased by 125% and 45%, respectively. The study attributes the rise to overcrowded hospitals, poor sanitation, lack of diagnostic access, and weak antimicrobial stewardship. It also underscores the slow pace of new antibiotic development, which further reduces treatment options for resistant infections. Experts recommend a “One Health” approach, integrating data on how infections spread among humans, animals, and the environment. They also urge stronger national policies, hospital-level antibiotic regulation, and the use of real-time health data to guide responsible treatment decisions. With the World Health Organization already warning about AMR’s impact on mortality and health systems, the report stresses that immediate action is critical to prevent a catastrophic rise in untreatable infections among the most vulnerable—our children. Source: Indiatoday

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Gennova Biopharma Partners with CEPI to Develop mRNA Nipah Vaccine

/ Health & Wellness Community

Gennova Biopharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, has announced a partnership with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to develop a self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccine for the Nipah virus. The collaboration has secured up to $13.38 million in funding from CEPI to accelerate research and development. Innovative Approach to Vaccine Development As part of this initiative, Gennova will work with the Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI), a CEPI partner based in the United States, to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into vaccine design. AI-driven analysis will be used to identify optimal vaccine targets, enhancing immune response efficiency. Clinical trials are set to begin in India, where Nipah outbreaks have previously occurred. The Nipah Virus Threat Nipah virus, a highly lethal pathogen from the Paramyxovirus family, has caused multiple outbreaks in South and Southeast Asia, with a fatality rate of up to 75%. Though outbreaks have been geographically limited, the virus’s natural reservoir—fruit bats—inhabits regions home to over two billion people, making it a serious global health concern. CEPI’s Commitment to Global Health Kent Kester, Executive Director of Vaccine R&D at CEPI, emphasized the urgency of the project, stating: “With no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Nipah, CEPI is leading the global effort to develop countermeasures. Gennova’s saRNA technology could not only help fight Nipah but also enhance pandemic preparedness, enabling rapid responses within 100 days of identifying a new viral threat.” The Advantage of saRNA Vaccines Unlike traditional mRNA vaccines, which introduce pre-made antigenic proteins, saRNA vaccines provide genetic instructions that enable the body’s own cells to produce these proteins. This approach enhances the immune response while requiring lower doses, making it a promising platform for future vaccine development. A Long-Term Collaboration Gennova’s partnership with CEPI is not new. In August 2023, CEPI granted the company $3.6 million to optimize its saRNA technology for developing vaccines against unknown pathogenic threats, often referred to as Disease X. Sanjay Singh, CEO of Gennova Biopharmaceuticals, commented on the collaboration: “By harnessing our saRNA platform, we aim to develop a next-generation Nipah vaccine. This partnership sets a new benchmark for rapid vaccine development while ensuring equitable access and strengthening global health security.” Ensuring Equitable Access CEPI has invested over $100 million in Nipah vaccine research. Through this collaboration, Gennova has pledged to uphold CEPI’s Equitable Access Policy, ensuring that the vaccine, if successfully developed, will be made available first to at-risk populations at an affordable price. The agreement also includes provisions for technology transfer, which could support future vaccine development efforts against emerging infectious diseases.

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China Reports Decline in HMPV Cases Amid Global Watch

/ Health & Wellness Community

Decline in HMPV Infections in China Chinese health officials report a decline in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in northern provinces, alleviating fears of a potential pandemic. Wang Liping, a representative from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, stated that positive cases among children under 14 have started to decrease. This update comes as images circulating online suggested overcrowded hospitals in the region, a claim countered by officials citing no significant shortage of medical resources. Gao Xinqiang of the Health Commission clarified that rising patient numbers in fever clinics reflect improved detection methods rather than an actual surge in infections. WHO Monitoring Global HMPV Trends The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that no reports of unusual HMPV outbreaks have been received globally, ensuring that monitoring efforts remain intact. India Prepares for Potential Outbreaks India has reported 17 HMPV cases across several states, including Gujarat (5 cases), Maharashtra and West Bengal (3 cases each), Karnataka and Tamil Nadu (2 cases each), and Assam and Puducherry (1 case each). Health authorities in India emphasize that there is no immediate cause for concern but are preparing for potential outbreaks. About HMPV HMPV, related to the respiratory syncytial virus, typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory infections in vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Key Challenges: No Vaccines or Specific Treatments: Currently, there are no vaccines or targeted treatments available for HMPV. Global Vigilance Required: Improved detection methods help track the virus but emphasize the need for global preparedness. This developing story highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and readiness in addressing emerging health concerns. Source: newsbytesapp Photo Credit : newsbytesapp

China Reports Decline in HMPV Cases Amid Global Watch Read More »

Over 1 in 5 Adults Worldwide Infected with Genital Herpes: WHO

/ Health & Wellness Community

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 846 million people aged 15 to 49, or more than one in five individuals in this age group, are living with genital herpes infections globally. These findings, published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections, highlight the widespread nature of the infection and underscore the urgent need for improved prevention, treatment, and vaccine development. Each year, an estimated 42 million people contract a new genital herpes infection, equating to one new case every second. While many infections are asymptomatic, over 200 million individuals in 2020 experienced painful genital sores and blisters, often requiring repeated medical visits. Dr. Meg Doherty, WHO’s Director of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI Programmes, emphasized the strain on global health systems: “Genital herpes causes pain and distress for millions, and better prevention and treatment options are critical to controlling its spread and reducing its health impacts, including its link to an increased risk of HIV transmission.” The study estimates 520 million people have genital HSV-2, responsible for 90% of symptomatic cases and associated with a three-fold higher HIV risk. An additional 376 million are infected with genital HSV-1, which is increasingly transmitted during adulthood due to declining childhood oral infections. Herpes infections carry significant social and economic burdens. Stigma often silences discussions about the infection, and healthcare costs and productivity losses are estimated at $35 billion annually. WHO advocates consistent condom use and avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks to reduce transmission. It also recommends HIV testing for individuals with genital herpes and pre-exposure prophylaxis when needed. Research into vaccines and new treatments remains a priority, as these advancements could significantly improve global health outcomes and reduce the stigma surrounding herpes infections. Source: World Health Organization Photo Credit: World Health Organization

Over 1 in 5 Adults Worldwide Infected with Genital Herpes: WHO Read More »

Ministry of Ayush to Celebrate 9th Ayurveda Day with Focus on Global Health Innovations

/ Health & Wellness Community
ArdorComm news

The Ministry of Ayush is set to celebrate the 9th Ayurveda Day on October 29 at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi. This year’s theme, Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health, highlights the expanding role of Ayurveda in addressing global health challenges. The event is expected to draw participation from over 150 countries, reflecting Ayurveda’s growing international recognition. Minister of State for Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, emphasized the significance of Ayurveda Day as a global movement. He noted that this year’s theme underscores the contributions of Ayurveda to global health advancements. The government aims to promote Ayurveda as a robust medical system worldwide, benefiting public health across borders. In discussing the Ministry’s recent initiatives, Jadhav pointed to efforts to make Ayurveda knowledge more accessible to the public through digital platforms under the Ayush Grid. This includes innovative programs such as the Ayurgyan Scheme, the Ayush Research Portal, and the Namaste Portal. He further highlighted that Ayurveda is currently recognized in 24 countries, with Ayurveda products being exported to over 100 nations. The celebration of Ayurveda Day demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to advancing traditional medicine in a modern context, while promoting holistic well-being and health innovation on a global scale. Source: newsonair. gov

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