Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel announced that the Chandipura virus has claimed 16 lives and resulted in 50 reported cases across the state. Among these, 14 cases were reported in Himmatpur, with seven patients currently hospitalized. The virus has also affected three individuals from other states. Symptoms, primarily seen in children, include swelling and diarrhea. However, encephalitis might also be contributing to these symptoms. Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel has reviewed the situation, instructing officials to spray Malathion powder and provide intensive treatment to patients. Preventive measures are being enforced at the grassroots level by health workers.

The Union health ministry, alongside experts from AIIMS and NIMHANS, reviewed Chandipura virus and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. Since June 2024, 78 AES cases have been reported, mostly in Gujarat, resulting in 28 deaths, with 5 linked to the Chandipura virus. Experts stressed the need for comprehensive studies and highlighted vector control, hygiene, and public awareness as crucial measures. Gujarat's government plans a mega drive for vector control to combat the spread of these diseases, primarily affecting children.

The Union health ministry has rejected a US-based study claiming India's Covid-19 deaths were significantly underreported. The study, published in Science Advances, estimated 1.19 million excess deaths in 2020, eight times higher than official numbers. The ministry called the findings "unacceptable" and "untenable," citing critical flaws in methodology. The study's estimates far exceeded WHO's calculations, sparking controversy. The ministry stands by its official Covid-19 death toll, dismissing the study's claims as unacceptable. A fierce debate has ensued over the accuracy of India's pandemic mortality data.

The Chandipura virus outbreak in Gujarat has claimed 15 lives, with a four-year-old girl confirmed as the first victim by the National Institute of Virology in Pune. The virus has spread to nearly a dozen districts, including Sabarkantha, Aravali, Mehsana, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, Morbi, and Panchmahal. So far, 29 suspected cases have been reported, primarily affecting children. The virus causes flu-like symptoms, body aches, diarrhoea, vomiting, and acute encephalitis, and is transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies. Health officials stress the importance of early detection and prevention. There is no specific antiviral treatment; care focuses on managing symptoms. Preventive measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and improving sanitation to reduce sandfly breeding sites.

Gujarat has reported its first death from the Chandipura virus, a four-year-old girl from Aravalli district. She died at a civil hospital in Sabarkantha district, with tests confirming the presence of the virus. The state has seen 29 cases of Chandipura virus so far, with 14 suspected deaths under investigation. The virus causes fever and acute encephalitis, with symptoms similar to flu. Meanwhile, a patient from Rajasthan's Udaipur died at a Gujarat hospital due to suspected Chandipura virus infection. Health officials are investigating the cases and monitoring the situation to prevent further spread of the virus.

Tripura reported 1,790 new HIV/AIDS cases with a 0.92% positivity rate in 2023-24, according to the State AIDS Control Society. Despite a slight increase from the previous year's 1,847 cases and 0.89% positivity rate, officials say the government has taken steps to prevent the spread of the disease. Since 1999, the National AIDS Control Programme has been implemented in the state. Sadly, 67 people, including two students, died in 2022-23, and 44 people died in 2023-24 due to HIV/AIDS. The government aims to continue its efforts to control the spread of the disease.

New Covid variants, N FLiRT and LB.1, are spreading across the UK, causing persistent coughs and sore throats. Despite vaccination, people are still getting infected, suggesting the strains may evade immunity. Dr. Mariyam Malik, an NHS and private GP, attributes the resurgence to increased travel and crowded events, allowing the virus to spread easily. With no legal restrictions in place, health experts urge vigilance. If you're experiencing stubborn cold-like symptoms, get tested. Stay informed, take precautions, and protect yourself and others from these highly contagious variants.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first guidelines to help tobacco users quit. The recommendations combine behavioral support, digital tools, and medications to aid over 750 million tobacco users worldwide. According to WHO, 60% of tobacco users want to quit, but 70% lack access to effective cessation services due to health system challenges. Dr. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO, acknowledged the struggle to quit smoking and the need for support. The guidelines aim to bridge the gap in cessation services and help individuals overcome tobacco addiction.

Six people, including two pregnant women, have tested positive for the Zika virus in Pune. The infections were reported in Erandwane and Mundhwa areas. The pregnant women, aged 16 and 28 weeks, and other patients are in stable condition, health officials confirmed. Zika virus, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, poses risks of birth defects like microcephaly in the fetus. The Pune Municipal Corporation is implementing measures such as fogging and fumigation to control mosquito breeding and prevent further spread of the virus.

One person in England has died amid an E.coli outbreak linked to lettuce, reports the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The agency confirms 275 cases across the UK, with infections traced to lettuce products. At least 122 people required hospitalization since the outbreak began, prompting recalls of sandwiches and salads by food manufacturers. Symptoms include severe diarrhoea, cramps, vomiting, and fever. The investigation by the Food Standards Agency continues, focusing on identifying the exact source with growers and suppliers. Public health advice stresses hygiene and caution to prevent further spread of the bacteria.