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UNICEF and WHO Launch Mass Polio Vaccination Campaign in Gaza

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The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have announced a mass polio vaccination campaign in the Gaza Strip, set to take place from February 22 to 26, 2025. This initiative aims to immunize over 591,000 children under the age of 10 against poliovirus using the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). The urgent response follows the detection of poliovirus in Gaza’s wastewater, indicating ongoing circulation and increased risk for children. WHO and UNICEF warned that overcrowding in shelters, coupled with damaged water and sanitation infrastructure, has created ideal conditions for the virus to spread. Additionally, increased population movement due to the ongoing ceasefire could further exacerbate transmission. “Pockets of individuals with low or no immunity provide the virus an opportunity to continue spreading and potentially cause disease,” the joint statement read. The upcoming campaign seeks to close immunity gaps and prevent further infections. An additional vaccination round is scheduled for April to ensure comprehensive coverage. The initiative will be spearheaded by the Palestinian Ministry of Health, with support from WHO, UNICEF, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and other partners. Efforts will focus on reaching all eligible children, including those previously missed, to halt the outbreak and protect public health. With the combination of medical intervention and coordinated global support, health officials hope to contain the outbreak and safeguard children from the debilitating effects of polio. Source: Business Standard

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WHO Recommends Potassium-Enriched Salt Substitutes for Better Heart Health

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended replacing regular table salt with potassium-enriched, lower-sodium salt substitutes to combat hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. The George Institute for Global Health India has strongly endorsed this initiative, emphasizing its potential to save lives, particularly in countries like India, where high sodium intake and low potassium consumption contribute to widespread health issues. A study conducted by The George Institute for Global Health India, in collaboration with PGIMER Chandigarh, highlights the urgent need for dietary changes in India. It found that salt consumption is significantly above recommended levels, while potassium intake remains insufficient, fueling hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. This research is part of a larger effort to understand how India’s dietary habits are linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Prof. Vivekanand Jha, Executive Director of The George Institute for Global Health India, stated, “To tackle hypertension and heart and kidney disease, especially in rural areas, we must make low-sodium, potassium-enriched salts affordable and accessible. By working with policymakers and the food industry, and educating the public with clear labeling and subsidies, we can save lives and promote a healthier future.” He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and efficacy of salt substitutes, particularly for people with kidney disease. The Salt Substitute in India Study (SSiIS) examined the impact of reduced-sodium, potassium-enriched salt substitutes on blood pressure in rural hypertensive patients. Initial data from the study showed excessive sodium intake, with urinary salt excretion levels at 10.4 g/day—more than double the WHO’s recommended intake. The study found that using salt substitutes was an effective and cost-efficient method to manage hypertension, particularly in high-risk populations. The study, led by Sudhir Raj Thout, Research Fellow at The George Institute for Global Health India, involved 502 hypertensive participants from rural India. Results showed that participants using the reduced-sodium, potassium-enriched salt substitutes for three months experienced notable reductions in both systolic (4.6 mmHg) and diastolic (1.1 mmHg) blood pressure. Additionally, urinary potassium levels and the sodium-to-potassium ratio improved. Participants also found the taste of the substitutes acceptable. Sudhir Raj Thout added, “The WHO’s guidance on lower-sodium salt substitutes is crucial for India, as it offers a simple and affordable solution to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risks amid the current high levels of sodium intake.” Global and Indian research supports the benefits of potassium-enriched salt substitutes in reducing blood pressure without compromising taste. These substitutes offer a cost-effective and accessible intervention, though individuals with advanced kidney disease should avoid them. The George Institute for Global Health India continues to advocate for potassium-enriched salts, collaborating with policymakers, healthcare providers, and the food industry to promote healthier dietary habits. Source: Express healthcare Photo Credit: Express healthcare

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H5N1 Bird Flu Warning: Preparing for a Potential Outbreak in India

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H5N1, or Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A, is a significant health concern, posing limited risk to humans but a serious threat overall. This highly infectious respiratory virus primarily affects birds but can spread to humans, particularly those in close contact with infected animals. What is H5N1 and How Does It Spread? Bird flu, caused by the H5N1 virus, mainly spreads among birds but can transmit to humans under specific circumstances, such as close contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Human-to-human transmission is rare. India’s Situation Since its first detection in 2006, H5N1 has resurfaced sporadically in India, with Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Odisha reporting the most cases. Recent incidents, such as the deaths of three tigers and a leopard at a Nagpur rescue center, underscore the virus’s presence. Symptoms and Risks Symptoms can appear within 2-8 days and range from mild (fever, cough) to severe (acute respiratory distress, organ failure). High-risk groups include poultry workers, livestock handlers, and laboratory personnel. Precautions to Stay Safe: Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after exposure to animals. Distance: Avoid contact with wild birds or animals. Protective Gear: Use masks and eye protection when handling potentially infected animals. Cook Food Properly: Ensure thorough cooking of poultry and eggs. Avoid Unpasteurized Products: Steer clear of raw dairy products. Expert Insights Dr. Ashok Rattan, a former WHO expert, advises caution but stresses that human transmissions of H5N1 remain rare. Early detection and proactive prevention are key to reducing risks. While there is no immediate cause for panic, awareness and preventive measures are critical. Breaking the chain of transmission can mitigate the risk of H5N1 escalating into an epidemic or pandemic. Stay informed, cautious, and prepared to ensure public health safety.

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China Reports Decline in HMPV Cases Amid Global Watch

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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

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India Records First Suspected Mpox Case; Patient in Isolation After International Travel

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India has recorded its first suspected case of mpox, a virus formerly known as monkeypox, in a young male patient who recently traveled from a country experiencing an outbreak. The health ministry announced that the patient is currently isolated in a hospital and is in stable condition, with ongoing measures to manage the case in line with established protocols. “The case is being managed in line with established protocols, and contact tracing is ongoing to identify potential sources and assess the impact within the country,” the health ministry said in a statement. While the specific strain of the virus is yet to be confirmed, tests are underway to identify the type of mpox infection. The mpox clade 1b variant, recently confirmed in Sweden and linked to an outbreak in Africa, has sparked global concern due to its rapid transmission through close contact. India has previously detected 30 cases of the older clade 2 strain between 2022 and March 2024. Mpox, originally identified in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in 1970, is transmitted from infected animals to humans and can spread through close physical contact. While typically mild, the virus can cause flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, and is fatal in rare cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) renamed monkeypox to mpox last year, addressing concerns that the original name was perceived as racist. Recently, the WHO declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern following the emergence of the new clade 1b variant. However, the WHO emphasized that mpox is not another COVID-19, despite its spread. Globally, over 17,500 mpox cases and 629 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) this year alone, where both clade 1b and 1a strains are present. The DRC has received its first batch of mpox vaccines to curb the outbreak, which has also spread to countries like Pakistan, the Philippines, and Thailand. India’s health ministry has assured that the country has robust measures in place to handle the situation, with efforts focused on containment and preventing further spread of the virus. Source: Aljazeera

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WHO Teams Up with IOC and France to Support Healthy Paris Olympics

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The World Health Organization (WHO) is collaborating with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and France to ensure the Paris Olympics, starting this Friday, are healthy and safe for both spectators and athletes. “Just as athletes and fans around the world have been preparing for the Paris Olympics, WHO has been working with the IOC and the Government of France to make sure these Games are healthy and safe for everyone involved,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “From promoting physical activity to protecting people from a range of health threats, WHO has been proud to play its part in making the Paris Olympics a success.” WHO and the IOC, partners since a 2020 memorandum of understanding renewed this year, have launched the “Let’s Move” campaign. This initiative promotes physical activity, leveraging the Paris Olympics to motivate sports stars and the global public to move for better health. In support of this campaign, the French Government has introduced a program mandating 30 minutes of daily physical activity for school students to ensure a lasting, healthy legacy from the Paris Olympics. WHO’s health security experts at its Geneva headquarters and European Regional Office in Copenhagen have been actively supporting national and regional authorities. Their efforts include preparing for potential health scenarios like heatwaves, infectious disease outbreaks, food and water safety hazards, terrorism, and crowd management. Public health advice has been developed in collaboration with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and France for travelers attending the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, starting on August 28. Guidance includes recommended vaccines, protection against various illnesses, and tips for staying cool and hydrated. WHO has participated in IOC Paris 2024 simulation exercises to test public health plans, established Olympics-specific health event-based surveillance, and is producing daily situation reports with ECDC. These reports aim to capture early signals of any health events and support timely responses, providing information to the IOC and other partners. Dr. Tedros will participate in the Olympic Torch Relay on Friday, following his speech at the Paris Summit on Sports for Sustainable Development, hosted by the French Presidency and the IOC. At the Summit, WHO will commit to mobilizing for nutrition ahead of next year’s Nutrition for Growth Summit in Paris and expand support to countries to improve diets, promote physical activity, and manage obesity, aiming to reduce obesity prevalence in targeted countries by 5% by 2030.

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Finance Says No to Health Request for $10-Million Fund to Meet G20 Pledge

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The Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH), launched during India’s G20 Presidency, remains unfunded by India despite a $10-million pledge. This initiative, a key deliverable from the Health Ministers’ meeting in Gujarat on August 19 last year, was part of the New Delhi declaration. The GIDH, formally initiated on February 20, 2024, by then Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, is still awaiting India’s promised contribution. The delay stems from the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) under the Ministry of Finance, which has not approved the contribution despite India’s commitment. The GIDH, managed by the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to support national digital health transformations within a framework that respects data protection regulations. A source from the Health Ministry indicated the proposal is “under consideration,” but the DEA had previously rejected the request in July 2023 without specifying reasons. The DEA suggested that India should offer technical support instead of financial contributions to avoid creating “committed liabilities.” Despite this setback, the Permanent Mission of India (PMI) to the UN recommended making a “substantial financial commitment” to the GIDH in November 2023. Highlighting India’s role as a leader in digital health, the Health Ministry, with approval from the Health Minister, reconsidered the contribution. In comparison, Indonesia contributed $50 million to establish the Presidency Prevention, Preparedness Response (PPR) Financial Intermediary Fund (FIF) during its G20 Presidency. As Brazil currently heads the G20 Presidency, the GIDH remains a priority within the health sector.

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WHO and FIND Join Forces to Accelerate Diagnostic Innovation and Access

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FIND and the World Health Organization (WHO) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that lays the foundation for accelerating innovation and achieving equitable access to quality diagnostics for people globally. One year on from the historic resolution to strengthen diagnostics, and with FIND as co-lead of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator diagnostics pillar, this new agreement marks a step change in a strengthened partnership between WHO and FIND to speed up both innovation and access to diagnostics, supporting countries to implement the World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolution on diagnostics. “We are proud to be signing this MoU with WHO, as quality and accessible diagnostic testing is the backbone of health systems, primary healthcare and health security,” said Dr. Ayoade Alakija, Board Chair of FIND. “At a time when there have been three cases of H5N1 avian flu spillover events from cows to humans in the last month and an outbreak of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the importance of diagnostic testing to identify outbreaks and quash them before they become major epidemics or even pandemics has never been more critical.” This new agreement establishes FIND as the key strategic partner for diagnostics, working with WHO and others to address a number of priority areas including antimicrobial resistance, infectious diseases like HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, and noncommunicable diseases like hypertension, heart disease, cervical cancer and diabetes. Signed on 1 June 2024 at a ceremony attended by Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Dr. Yukiko Nakatani (Assistant Director-General), and Dr. Ayoade Alakija (Board Chair of FIND), the MoU will also see the two organizations building new avenues to share knowledge and scale up critical activities to accelerate access to life-saving diagnostics. The signing of this MoU formalizes a long-standing partnership between WHO and FIND and marks a major milestone in the journey towards better health and well-being across the world. By leveraging the strengths and expertise of both WHO and FIND, this partnership promises to drive innovation on diagnostic tests and also improve access to the tests to reduce health inequalities, ultimately leading to a healthier future for people everywhere.  

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India to Showcase Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission at World Health Assembly

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India will highlight its universal health coverage through Ayushman Bharat, public health emergency preparedness, and digital health transformations at the World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva from May 27 to June 1. Official sources confirmed on Wednesday that India will also present the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, an indigenous portable hospital equipped with innovative tools designed to enhance disaster response and medical support. The 77th session of the WHA, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), will feature representatives from 194 countries aiming to structure the global health ecosystem. This year’s theme is “All for Health, Health for All.” The Indian delegation, led by Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, will participate in various sessions and discussions. The WHA includes sessions in three main committees: Plenary, Committee A, and Committee B. The plenary session, attended by health ministers and heads of delegations from 194 nations, will open the Health Assembly. India will chair Committee A, which will facilitate discussions on universal health coverage, public health emergency preparedness and response, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and sustainable financing for WHO. Committee B will focus on internal and external audit, budget, and financing matters concerning the WHO secretariat. In addition to the main sessions, at least 14 side events and multiple strategic roundtables will take place on the sidelines of the WHA, focusing on diverse health topics. These events will provide a platform for participants to share their thoughts on the future of the global health architecture. India’s presence at the WHA also includes leading and supporting the Regional One Voice initiative for the Southeast Asia region. This initiative advocates for well-being and health promotion, addressing social determinants of health, improving maternal, infant, and young child nutrition, and promoting the economics of health for all. India’s contributions to the WHA, including the showcase of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and the Arogya Maitri Disaster Management Cube, emphasize the country’s commitment to enhancing global health and disaster response capabilities. The participation aims to foster international collaboration and share India’s innovative health solutions with the global community.

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Global Health Crisis Updates: Yemen, Somalia, OCHA Chief’s Resignation, Haiti Insecurity Continues

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Amid mounting health crises worldwide, urgent responses are underway to address pressing challenges affecting vulnerable populations. Here are the latest developments: Yemen Healthcare Crisis: In Yemen, nearly 18 million people, including 2.4 million children, urgently require medical assistance, according to the UN health agency (WHO). The ongoing conflict has led to a decline in international support, leaving communities increasingly vulnerable to adverse conditions exacerbated by climate change. Natural disasters, such as heavy rains and flash-flooding, have triggered new displacements, affecting millions, with women and children bearing the brunt of the crisis. However, funding for WHO activities has seen a significant decline in recent years, posing a threat to essential health services. Despite challenges, WHO continues to operate therapeutic feeding centers and provide vital assistance to those in need. Cholera Outbreak in Somalia: In Somalia, a deadly cholera outbreak has claimed nine lives in the past week and over 50 in recent months, according to UN aid teams. The disease is rapidly spreading, particularly in high-risk districts along river basins. With the onset of the Gu rains expected to exacerbate the situation, urgent measures are required to mitigate its impact. Cholera outbreaks are exacerbated by malnutrition, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water, disproportionately affecting children under five. Efforts to combat the outbreak include the approval of cholera vaccine doses and prepositioning of essential supplies across the country. OCHA Chief’s Resignation: Martin Griffiths, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, has announced his resignation due to health reasons. Griffiths, who led the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), played a pivotal role in advocating for life-saving aid and mobilizing resources to address humanitarian crises worldwide. His resignation comes at a critical juncture, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in providing assistance to vulnerable populations globally. Haiti Insecurity Continues: In Haiti, violence and insecurity persist, disrupting aid operations and hindering access to healthcare facilities. Less than half of health facilities in the capital, Port-au-Prince, are functioning at their normal capacity, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Rampant gang activity and human rights abuses have further destabilized the situation, forcing facilities like the Bernard Mevs hospital to suspend operations due to security concerns. Despite these challenges, humanitarian agencies continue to provide essential services and assistance to displaced populations. These developments underscore the urgent need for sustained international support and coordinated efforts to address the complex health and humanitarian challenges facing these regions.

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