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Kerala Reports 85 Confirmed Shigellosis Cases in 2026, Health Department Intensifies Preventive Measures

/ Health & Wellness Community

Kerala has reported 85 confirmed cases and more than 70 suspected cases of shigellosis, a highly contagious bacterial infection commonly known as bacillary dysentery, as of June 7, prompting health authorities to strengthen preventive measures across the state. The disease, caused by Shigella bacteria, has been detected sporadically in all districts, with localized outbreaks reported in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, and Malappuram. In Wayanad, two students from Mar Baselios School tested positive on Monday, while several other children are suspected to have contracted the infection. Health officials have expressed concern over the vulnerability of children under five years of age, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. While most healthy adults recover without complications, the disease can prove fatal in high-risk groups. Kerala has recorded two child fatalities linked to shigellosis this year, one in April and another on June 6, both in Kozhikode. Shigellosis spreads through contaminated food, water, and surfaces, as well as through close contact with infected individuals. Symptoms typically appear within one to two days and include fever, diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort, blood in stools, and frequent painful bowel movements. The Health Department has urged the public to maintain strict personal and food hygiene practices, including thorough handwashing with soap before meals, food preparation, and after using the toilet. People have also been advised to consume boiled drinking water, avoid stale or raw foods, use ORS to prevent dehydration, and complete prescribed antibiotic courses. Households with infected individuals have been instructed to keep personal items, utensils, clothing, and bedding separate to prevent transmission. Recovered patients have also been advised to avoid serving food or attending public gatherings for at least two weeks after symptoms disappear. Food establishments have been directed to ensure hygienic food handling practices and verify the health status of food handlers. Authorities have also warned against the use of industrial ice in beverages. Health Minister K. Muraleedharan said the Food Safety Department has been instructed to intensify inspections and take action, including issuing closure notices, against eateries and street vendors found violating hygiene norms. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Pinarayi Vijayan called for urgent and coordinated action by health authorities and local self-government bodies to prevent further spread of the infection across the state. Source: The Hindu

Kerala Reports 85 Confirmed Shigellosis Cases in 2026, Health Department Intensifies Preventive Measures Read More »

Bangladesh Measles Death Toll Climbs to 585 as Outbreak Continues to Spread

/ Health & Wellness Community

Bangladesh’s measles outbreak has claimed two more lives, pushing the total death toll to 585 since March 15, according to health authorities. The latest fatalities, both involving children, were reported within a 24-hour period ending Sunday morning and have been classified as suspected measles deaths by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). With these additions, the number of suspected measles-related deaths has risen to 495, while 90 deaths have been officially confirmed. The outbreak continues to place significant pressure on the country’s healthcare system, with 1,324 new suspected cases reported over the past day. This has increased the cumulative number of suspected infections to 70,936. Meanwhile, 53 new confirmed cases were recorded, taking the total confirmed infections to 9,049. Since mid-March, 56,886 people with suspected measles symptoms have been hospitalised across Bangladesh. Of these, 52,841 patients have recovered, according to DGHS data. The crisis has also sparked concerns over vaccine availability. Last week, UNICEF revealed that it had repeatedly warned Bangladesh’s previous interim administration, led by Muhammad Yunus, about vaccine shortages that could lead to a widespread outbreak. Speaking at a media briefing in Dhaka, UNICEF Bangladesh Representative Rana Flowers said the organisation had sent multiple letters and raised the issue during at least 10 meetings with health officials between 2024 and 2026. According to Flowers, UNICEF consistently cautioned authorities that delays in vaccine procurement could trigger a major public health emergency. She further noted that UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban had also highlighted the issue during discussions with Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry during his visit to the country last year. UNICEF has pledged to support the ongoing investigation launched by the current BNP-led government and provide relevant evidence regarding the vaccine shortage and the subsequent outbreak. Source: IANS

Bangladesh Measles Death Toll Climbs to 585 as Outbreak Continues to Spread Read More »

WHO Estimates COVID-19 Linked to 22.1 Million Excess Deaths Worldwide Between 2020 and 2023

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new report released by the World Health Organization has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with an estimated 22.1 million excess deaths globally between 2020 and 2023, underscoring the devastating impact the crisis had on health systems and societies worldwide. Published in the WHO’s latest World Health Statistics report, the figure is more than three times higher than the officially reported COVID-19 death toll, as it includes both direct fatalities caused by the virus and indirect deaths resulting from disrupted healthcare services, delayed treatments, and strained medical systems. According to the report, the pandemic erased nearly a decade of progress in global life expectancy, with recovery remaining slow and uneven across different regions of the world. Despite the setbacks, the report highlighted encouraging progress in several public health areas. New HIV infections declined by 40% between 2010 and 2024, while tobacco and alcohol consumption also registered reductions during the same period. The number of people requiring treatment for neglected tropical diseases dropped by 36%. The WHO further noted improvements in access to essential services between 2015 and 2024. Nearly 961 million people gained access to safe drinking water, 1.2 billion received improved sanitation facilities, 1.6 billion gained access to basic hygiene services, and 1.4 billion people benefited from cleaner cooking solutions. Regional progress was also evident in some areas. The WHO African Region recorded a 70% reduction in HIV infections and a 28% decline in tuberculosis cases, outperforming global averages. Meanwhile, the South-East Asia Region was reported to be on course to meet its 2025 malaria reduction milestone. However, the report warned that several health challenges continue to threaten global progress. Malaria incidence has risen by 8.5% since 2015, moving the world further away from international targets. Anaemia continues to affect 30.7% of women of reproductive age globally, with little improvement over the last decade. The prevalence of overweight children under five reached 5.5% in 2024, while violence against women remains a serious concern, with one in four women worldwide experiencing intimate partner violence. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the findings reflect “both progress and persistent inequality,” adding that millions of people, especially women, children, and underserved populations, still lack access to the fundamental conditions required for healthy living. The report also expressed concern over slowing progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Between 2015 and 2023, the global UHC service coverage index improved only slightly from 68 to 71. Additionally, one in four people globally experienced financial hardship due to healthcare expenses, while nearly 1.6 billion people were either living in or pushed into poverty because of out-of-pocket medical costs in 2022. Childhood vaccination coverage also remains below global targets, contributing to renewed outbreaks of preventable diseases. Although maternal mortality has declined by 40% since 2000 and under-five mortality by 51%, many nations are still unlikely to meet the 2030 health goals. Progress in reducing deaths from non-communicable diseases has slowed considerably since 2015. The WHO further highlighted environmental and lifestyle risks contributing to poor health outcomes. Air pollution was linked to an estimated 6.6 million deaths globally in 2021, while unsafe water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions contributed to 1.4 million deaths in 2019. Yukiko Nakatani stressed the urgent need for stronger investment in primary healthcare, prevention strategies, and sustainable health financing to build more resilient healthcare systems. The report also exposed major shortcomings in global health data collection. By the end of 2025, only 18% of countries were reporting mortality data to the WHO within a year, and nearly one-third had never submitted cause-of-death information. Out of an estimated 61 million deaths worldwide in 2023, only about one-third included cause-of-death reporting, while just one-fifth contained properly coded International Classification of Diseases (ICD) data. The WHO warned that these data gaps severely weaken the ability of governments and health agencies to monitor disease trends, compare health outcomes internationally, and respond effectively to future public health emergencies. Source: The Hindu

WHO Estimates COVID-19 Linked to 22.1 Million Excess Deaths Worldwide Between 2020 and 2023 Read More »

Two Indian Nationals on MV Hondius Show No Symptoms as India Monitors Hantavirus Situation

/ Health & Wellness Community

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed that two Indian nationals currently onboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, where hantavirus cases were reported, are asymptomatic and remain under medical observation under international health guidelines. In an official statement issued Friday, the ministry said it is closely tracking developments and coordinating with the World Health Organization along with other global health bodies. Authorities added that preventive public health steps are being taken to ensure the safety of Indian citizens. According to preliminary information shared through the International Health Regulations (IHR) mechanism, eight probable hantavirus cases have been identified on the vessel so far. Out of these, five have been laboratory confirmed, while three deaths have also been reported. Officials stated that WHO was informed about the outbreak during the first week of May. The two Indian passengers onboard have not shown symptoms and continue to be monitored. The virus involved is reported to be the Andes strain of hantavirus, a variant found in South America that has limited ability for human-to-human transmission. Experts note that transmission generally requires close and prolonged contact. WHO has currently assessed the wider public health risk as low, though more cases may emerge due to the virus’s long incubation period. WHO is also overseeing response measures under IHR protocols, including diagnostic assistance, epidemiological review, and safe travel arrangements for passengers and crew. As a precaution, India’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centre under the National Centre for Disease Control and Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme held a high-level preparedness review meeting. Hantaviruses are commonly spread through rodents such as mice and rats, or through contact with their urine, droppings, or saliva. Symptoms may develop between one and eight weeks after exposure and often include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. There is no specific cure for hantavirus infections, but early supportive treatment can improve outcomes by managing respiratory, heart, and kidney complications. Prevention mainly depends on avoiding exposure to infected rodents. Source: The Hindu

Two Indian Nationals on MV Hondius Show No Symptoms as India Monitors Hantavirus Situation Read More »

Preventive Healthcare: Why It Matters More Than Ever

/ Blogs

For decades, healthcare systems across the world have largely been reactive—we visit a doctor when something goes wrong. But today, that model is rapidly becoming outdated. Rising lifestyle diseases, increasing healthcare costs, and the lessons from global health crises have made one thing clear: waiting for symptoms is no longer sustainable. Preventive healthcare represents a powerful shift—from treating illness to anticipating and avoiding it altogether. It is not just a medical approach; it is a mindset, one that prioritizes long-term well-being over short-term fixes. What is Preventive Healthcare? Preventive healthcare refers to measures taken to prevent diseases before they occur or worsen. This includes: Regular health check-ups and screenings Vaccinations and immunizations Healthy lifestyle practices (diet, exercise, sleep) Mental health care and stress management Early diagnosis and timely intervention At its core, preventive care is about staying one step ahead of disease, rather than reacting after damage has been done.  Why Preventive Healthcare Matters More Than Ever 1. The Rising Burden of Lifestyle Diseases Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are now the leading causes of death globally—and in India. In fact, over 60% of deaths in India are linked to preventable lifestyle diseases.  These diseases often develop silently over years. By the time symptoms appear, significant damage may already have occurred. Preventive healthcare helps detect risks early and delay or completely avoid disease onset. 2. Early Detection Saves Lives Many serious conditions—like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes—show little to no symptoms in early stages. Regular screenings can detect these conditions early, when they are easier and more effective to treat.  Research even suggests that routine preventive check-ups can significantly reduce mortality risk, especially for chronic diseases. In simple terms: Early detection = Better outcomes + Lower risk 3. Healthcare Costs Are Skyrocketing Medical treatment today is expensive—and chronic diseases often require lifelong management. Preventive healthcare helps reduce this burden by: Avoiding costly hospitalizations Minimizing long-term medication needs Reducing emergency interventions India alone is expected to face an economic burden of over ₹511 lakh crore due to NCDs by 2030.  Preventive care is not just good for health—it is financially smart. 4. Post-Pandemic Awareness and Behavior Shift The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed how people view health. There is now greater awareness around: Immunity and hygiene Regular health monitoring Importance of vaccinations Preventive healthcare has evolved from being optional to essential, as individuals increasingly take responsibility for their own well-being. Mental Health is Finally in Focus Preventive healthcare is no longer limited to physical health. Rising stress, burnout, and anxiety have made mental health screening and care equally important. Early interventions—like counseling, mindfulness, and stress management—can prevent long-term psychological issues and improve overall quality of life.  6. Technology is Making Prevention Smarter The integration of technology is revolutionizing preventive healthcare: Wearables track heart rate, sleep, and activity AI predicts disease risks using health data Telemedicine enables early consultations Predictive analytics can now identify at-risk individuals even before symptoms appear, enabling personalized and timely interventions.  This shift is transforming healthcare from generalized treatment to personalized prevention. The Indian Context: A Critical Turning Point India is at a unique crossroads: A young population increasingly affected by lifestyle diseases Rising urbanization and sedentary lifestyles Growing healthcare costs and infrastructure gaps Historically, India has focused more on curative care, but the trend is shifting. Preventive healthcare is gaining momentum, driven by: Increased awareness Growth of digital health platforms Expansion of diagnostics and wellness sectors The preventive healthcare market in India is also growing rapidly, reflecting a broader societal shift toward proactive health management. Key Pillars of Preventive Healthcare 1. Regular Health Screenings Routine tests like blood sugar, cholesterol, and cancer screenings help detect risks early. 2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices Balanced nutrition, physical activity, and adequate sleep form the foundation of prevention. 3. Vaccination & Immunization Vaccines remain one of the most effective preventive tools in public health. 4. Mental Well-being Stress management, therapy, and emotional resilience are essential components. 5. Health Awareness & Education Informed individuals make better health decisions—prevention starts with awareness. Challenges in Adoption Despite its importance, preventive healthcare faces several barriers: Lack of awareness and health literacy Cultural tendency to seek care only when ill Accessibility issues in rural areas Perception of preventive care as an “extra cost” In reality, the cost of inaction is far greater. The Way Forward: Building a Preventive Culture To truly benefit from preventive healthcare, a collective effort is needed: Individuals must prioritize regular check-ups and healthy habits Institutions should integrate health programs and awareness initiatives Governments must invest in accessible preventive services Healthcare providers should promote early intervention models The goal is to move from a “sick-care system” to a “health-care system.” Conclusion: Prevention is the New Cure Preventive healthcare is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity in today’s fast-paced, high-risk world. It empowers individuals to take control of their health, reduces the burden on healthcare systems, and ensures a better quality of life. The future of healthcare lies not in hospitals alone, but in daily choices, early actions, and informed decisions. Because ultimately, the most effective treatment is the one you never need.

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Diabetes Driving India’s Silent Liver Disease Crisis, Study Warns

/ Health & Wellness Community

A groundbreaking study has revealed that Type 2 diabetes is emerging as a major cause of advanced liver disease in India, often progressing unnoticed until it becomes life-threatening. Published in The Lancet, the DiaFib-Liver Study is the largest real-world research of its kind in a developing country, highlighting the liver as a critical yet overlooked organ at risk among diabetic patients. The study, which assessed 9,202 adults across 27 healthcare centres, found that nearly 25% of patients had significant liver fibrosis, while about 14% had advanced disease. Alarmingly, around 5% had already reached a stage suggestive of cirrhosis—despite showing no obvious symptoms. Experts note a shift in the primary causes of severe liver conditions, with diabetes and obesity now surpassing viral infections like Hepatitis B and C. The underlying mechanism involves fat accumulation in the liver, leading to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and eventual scarring. Interestingly, the research also challenges the belief that liver disease primarily affects overweight individuals. Cases were observed even among lean patients, with a phenomenon termed “burnt-out” liver disease—where fat diminishes as fibrosis worsens—making detection even more difficult. Given that liver damage often remains silent until advanced stages, researchers emphasize the need for improved screening. They recommend tools like the FIB-4 score, derived from routine blood tests, and FibroScan imaging for early detection, instead of relying solely on ultrasounds. Encouragingly, the study highlights that early-stage liver damage can be reversed. A 5% reduction in body weight may reverse fibrosis in many cases, while a 10% reduction can significantly slow disease progression. With India home to over 10 crore diabetics and millions more at risk, integrating liver health checks into diabetes care programs could be key to preventing a large-scale health crisis. Source: TNN

Diabetes Driving India’s Silent Liver Disease Crisis, Study Warns Read More »

India Among Nations with Highest Maternal Deaths in 2023 Despite Significant Progress: Global Study

/ Health & Wellness Community

A recent global analysis published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Women’s Health has highlighted that India remains among the nations with the highest number of maternal deaths in 2023, reporting approximately 24,700 fatalities. This corresponds to a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 116 deaths per one lakh live births. Other countries with significant figures include Pakistan with 10,300 deaths, and African nations such as Ethiopia and Nigeria reporting 11,900 and 32,900 deaths respectively. The study, conducted by researchers from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington along with global collaborators, notes that while maternal mortality has declined significantly over the past 30 years, the pace of improvement has slowed and disparities across regions persist. The findings are part of the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 assessment, which evaluates trends across 204 countries. In contrast, India’s latest Sample Registration System (SRS) data for 2021–23 shows a lower MMR of 88 per one lakh live births, reflecting continued national progress. Government sources also point out that India has achieved an 86% reduction in maternal mortality since 1990, surpassing the global average decline and aligning with its commitment to meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing MMR below 70 by 2030. Globally, maternal deaths stood at around 240,000 in 2023, with an MMR of 190.5—down by more than one-third from 1990 levels. However, over half of the countries studied are still above the SDG threshold. The leading causes of maternal deaths worldwide include severe bleeding and pregnancy-related hypertensive disorders. Experts emphasize that expanding access to antenatal care, ensuring safe childbirth services, strengthening emergency obstetric care, and improving postnatal follow-up can significantly reduce maternal deaths. The study also noted that the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily reversed progress, contributing to increased maternal mortality during its early phase. With less than five years left to achieve global targets, the report calls for renewed focus, stronger health systems, and sustained investments to accelerate progress in maternal health outcomes. Source: PTI

India Among Nations with Highest Maternal Deaths in 2023 Despite Significant Progress: Global Study Read More »

Climate Action Could Prevent 13.5 Million Air Pollution Deaths by 2050: Global Study

/ Health & Wellness Community

A new study published in The Lancet Global Health reveals that strong climate action aimed at limiting global warming to 2°C could prevent more than 13.5 million premature deaths caused by air pollution by 2050—primarily in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The research, led by experts including those from The University of Texas at Austin, highlights that the scale and distribution of health benefits depend significantly on how global climate mitigation efforts are shared among nations. According to the findings, a “least-cost” approach—where emissions are reduced wherever it is cheapest—places a heavier burden on LMICs. However, this model also delivers the greatest improvements in air quality in those regions, resulting in the highest number of lives saved. In contrast, an “equity-based” approach, where wealthier nations take on a larger share of emissions reduction, eases the financial burden on developing countries. But this could lead to nearly four million fewer lives saved, as emissions cuts may not occur in the most pollution-affected regions. Co-author Mark Budolfson noted a critical dilemma between climate justice and maximizing health outcomes, explaining that shifting mitigation responsibility to richer nations may unintentionally reduce life-saving air quality improvements in poorer countries. The study also evaluated a third scenario that combines equity with targeted air pollution controls in LMICs—such as reducing soot and sulphur dioxide emissions through advanced technologies in industries like power generation. This approach emerged as the most effective, balancing fairness with maximum health benefits. Another co-author, Noah Scovronick of Emory University, stressed the importance of designing climate policies that prioritize both justice and public health. He emphasized that developing nations must not miss the opportunity to achieve significant reductions in air pollution while transitioning to cleaner systems. The study underscores the need for global cooperation to craft climate strategies that are both equitable and life-saving. Source: PTI

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Women in India Report Greater Sleep Deprivation Than Men: 2026 Global Sleep Survey

/ Article/Stories

Women in India Report Greater Sleep Deprivation Than Men: 2026 Global Sleep Survey Women in India are experiencing higher levels of sleep deprivation than men, facing more difficulty falling asleep and greater sleep disruption due to stress and family responsibilities, according to the 2026 Global Sleep Survey conducted by ResMed. The survey gathered responses from 30,000 participants across 13 countries, including 5,000 respondents in India. The findings point to a growing awareness of sleep as a vital component of overall health, while also revealing a persistent gap between recognising its importance and achieving consistent, quality rest. Sleep Awareness Rising, But Quality Lags In India, 44 per cent of respondents ranked sleep among the most important behaviours for living a long and healthy life, placing it alongside diet and exercise. However, more than half (53 per cent) reported getting quality sleep on only four nights a week or fewer, highlighting the disconnect between awareness and actual outcomes. Globally, 90 per cent of respondents acknowledged that regular, good-quality sleep contributes to longevity and better health. Gender Gap in Sleep Health The survey revealed clear differences in sleep experiences between men and women in India: 38 per cent of women reported difficulty falling asleep, compared to 29 per cent of men. Stress and anxiety disrupted sleep for 42 per cent of women, versus 36 per cent of men. Family responsibilities affected 39 per cent of women, compared to 33 per cent of men. These findings suggest that social, emotional and caregiving pressures may disproportionately impact women’s sleep health. Stress and Work Among Top Disruptors Across all respondents in India, stress or anxiety emerged as the leading barrier to consistent sleep (39 per cent), followed by work-related responsibilities (37 per cent) and household duties (31 per cent). The consequences extend beyond tiredness. After a poor night’s sleep: 39 per cent felt more stressed, 35 per cent reported increased irritability, and 30 per cent said they felt more depressed. This underscores the strong connection between sleep quality and mental wellbeing. Impact on Workplace Productivity Sleep deprivation is also affecting professional performance. About 71 per cent of working respondents said insufficient sleep reduces their focus and productivity. Meanwhile, 57 per cent felt that sleep health is not adequately prioritised in workplace culture. Notably, 77 per cent admitted to taking a “snooze day” — calling in sick after a poor night’s sleep. At the same time, 72 per cent said flexible working arrangements help them manage their sleep better, indicating the importance of organisational support in improving sleep outcomes. Healthcare and Technology’s Role Encouragingly, 78 per cent of Indian respondents said they would consult a healthcare provider for persistent sleep issues, and 68 per cent reported having already discussed sleep health with a clinician. However, only 69 per cent recalled being asked about sleep during routine medical check-ups, suggesting room for more proactive screening. Technology is increasingly shaping sleep awareness. Around 75 per cent of Indians said they track their sleep at least occasionally using wearable devices such as smartwatches and fitness bands. Among those users, 66 per cent indicated they would seek medical advice if their device flagged a potential health concern. A Growing Public Health Priority Conducted between December 11, 2025, and January 14, 2026, across markets including the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, Korea, Brazil, Poland, Singapore and Mexico, the survey used samples representative of national age and gender distributions. The findings position sleep as an emerging public health priority in India. While awareness of its importance is high, consistent behavioural change remains uneven. Experts suggest that enhanced public education, routine screening, supportive workplace policies and early diagnosis of sleep disorders could help close the gap between recognition and restorative rest.

Women in India Report Greater Sleep Deprivation Than Men: 2026 Global Sleep Survey Read More »