March 31, 2021

 What is a coronavirus vaccine passport – Do you need one too?

 

Covid vaccines are being considered the milestone after which life is expected to return to normal. In an effort to eradicate the coronavirus from the world, government and health officials are continuously trying to find new ways to get every person vaccinated. To further add to the efforts, the government might ask everyone to get a vaccine passport soon. Last month, Israel became the first country to provide a certificate to those who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 so that they can have access to certain facilities. Here’s everything you need to know about the coronavirus vaccine passport. 

 What Are Vaccine Passports? 

A vaccine passport is proof that you have been vaccinated against the microscopic villain, Covid-19. It is similar to the ‘yellow card,’ which was basically proof against yellow fever.  According to CNN, a vaccine passport is a mobile app that will be proof for the holder that they have been vaccinated against Covid-19, and is therefore “safe.” In a way, vaccine passports will also provide a digital vaccination record of the vaccinated people across the globe.

While some countries have set their own standards of the vaccine passport, a standard version that would be accepted globally is yet to come. In other words, it will be a digital health pass that will allow a person to enter stadiums, events, concerts, and more. Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Air New Zealand, Copa Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Etihad Airways are some of the leading airlines that are ready to try the “IATA Travel Pass” soon. It is an app created by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that allows different airlines and airports to check for proof of vaccination.

Another initiative by the World Economic Forum and a broad coalition of public and private partners is to launch CommonPass. It is a global platform that will help people document their Covid-19 status to satisfy country entry requirements while keeping their health data private.

However, the World Health Organization says that these passports might not be as useful as there is always a chance of someone contracting an infection for the second time.

What About India?

So far, there is no vaccine certificate system that prevents people from travelling domestically, but based on the RT-PCR tests, Covid test certificates will be checked for incoming foreign travellers. Individual states may have their requirements for domestic travellers.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/news

 

March 29, 2021

 Holi 2021: 5 Hairstyles for a hassle-free holi

Holi is a festival where you literally drown in colours. But you don’t want your hair to come in your way, especially during the festival of colours and lots of fun – Holi. Most of us think it’s alright to leave our hair open during the celebrations, but doing this will only damage your hair further. In fact, we give you 5 easy hairstyles that you could pick from to keep your hair safe and in place during Holi.

Standard Braids

It is the best hairstyle to protect your hair. Divide the hair into three equal parts. Cross the right part over the middle part and then left part over it. Do this process until the braid is done. 

High Ponytail

A high ponytail can be a simple one or you can alter it in your own way. For instance, after tying your hair into a high ponytail, braid it into a regular plait. To add some more style to this, loosen the braid a little for a ‘bubble’ effect. Here is how to tie a bubble braid. 

Double Buns

As a quirky take on hair buns, a bun on both sides looks cute and serves the purpose too. This hairstyle keeps all your hair in place so you can have all the fun without being too bothered. For this style, part your hair into two equal sections and comb through all the knots. Then, begin with either sides and tie a ponytail, a high or low one, as per your preference. Then wrap your hair around the hair-tie and tie it up again. Do the same for the other side.

Low Ponytail

A simple way to put away all those tresses is a simple low-tied ponytail. This type of ponytail looks textured on wavy or curly hair and can be put in place with bobby pins just as easily. You could tie it near your nape for that low yet stylish effect. Have curly hair? Here are some on-the-go hairstyles for you.

Top-Knot Bun

If you have long hair and definitely don’t want them open and loose, this top-knot style could be your pick. Begin with tying a high ponytail and then wrap the rest of the hair around the hair tie and you’re done. For a cleaner look, wear hair/head band. Know how to tie a top-knot bun, here.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/

 

March 26, 2021

 Skin friendly 24-hour hand sanitizer to fight the COVID-19 pandemic: Even kids can use it safely

Swanrose India, a wholly owned subsidiary of US-based Swanrose Inc on Thursday announced the launch of ‘once-a-day’ hand sanitiser ‘Just Human’. “Just Human is a revolutionary 24-hour hand sanitiser (use just once a day), a game changer in the hand sanitizer space. It is the first hand sanitizer to provide extended protection. The 24-hour efficacy is backed by GLP Lab certification,” said Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, CEO of Swanrose Inc. ‘Just Human’ is made in India with US proprietary technology. The product has got USFDA registration and DCGI clearance in India. This week the first product launches in India and the USA simultaneously. According to the CEO of Swanrose, the company has an ethos of local production to support jobs and families in the countries it sells, so in the USA it is made in USA and in India it is made in India. 

Precautionary Measures Must To Tackle Surge In Cases

We are still in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, now, many countries are seeing a surge in cases and in India the situation is no different. The country is staring at an exponential surge in active infectious cases, which experts are saying is likely to only get worse. In light of this, it becomes imperative that everyone takes all the precautionary methods very seriously. This will bring down the infection transmission rate significantly. Social distancing, sanitizing your hand, isolating if you have symptoms and wearing face masks are very important and there should be no slack when it comes to following these measures. 

Importance Of Hand Sanitisers To Fight The COVID-19 Pandemic

One of the most important precautionary measures is keeping the hands clean and sanitized. This is because you may unknowingly touch surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with the COVID-19 virus. Many people have the habit of unconsciously touching the face multiple times during the course of the day. This puts them at high risk of getting infected. But if you keep your hands sanitized, there is nothing to worry about. 

How The 24 Hour Sanitizer Changes Things

Many people find it a pain to frequently sanitise their hands. Moreover, frequent use of alcohol-based sanitisers, which are the best to fight the virus, can leave your skin dry and peeling. So, if application once in 24 hours is enough to sanitise your hand, then you don’t have to go through the hassle of frequent sanitizing and nor do you have to worry about adverse effects on your skin. Let us lee what this alcohol-based 24 hours Just Human hand sanitizer is all about.

·It forms a protective invisible bionic shield that kills 99.9 per cent of germs and viruses.

·It is also skin-friendly.

·The shield will work regardless of the surfaces you touch throughout the day.

·Works even after you wash your hands.

·Chemical-free and safe for children.

 

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/news

 

March 24, 2021

 COVID-19 infection can permanently reduce thyroid function, men more susceptible

 

COVID-19 can affect your endocrine system. This has been proved by researchers. It also affects the thyroid gland, which is a part of the endocrine system. Now, a team of researchers from the University of Milan in Italy has showed that some patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 seem to experience inflammation of the thyroid gland that is different from thyroid inflammation caused by other viruses. The study, presented virtually at ENDO 2021, indicated that one-third of the participants still had signs of thyroid inflammation after three months, even though their thyroid function had normalised. An earlier 2020 study by researchers at the University Hospital Pisa also said that COVID-19 may cause thyroid disease in patients. Oxford’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism had published this study. 

COVID-19 Can Cause Atypical Thyroid Inflammation

In spring 2020, 15 per cent of the COVID-19 patients hospitalised in acute medicine units in Italy had thyroid hormone alterations due to multi-factorial causes, including thyroid inflammation. In comparison, only 1 per cent of hospitalised patients during the same period in 2019 had thyroid hormone alterations. People with thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid gland, triggered by other viruses usually recover thyroid function in the short term. However, there is a long-term increased risk of permanently reduced thyroid function, caused by late-onset effects of viral infection, or by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland. 

Thyroid Triggered By COVID-19 Shows Distinct Symptoms

For the purpose of the study, the researchers wanted to find out whether the thyroiditis associated with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease, follows the same pattern as thyroid inflammation caused by other viruses. They started a surveillance programme to monitor the thyroid function of patients every three months after being hospitalised for moderate to severe COVID-19 disease. The patients undergo a routine blood and ultrasound testing to monitor their thyroid function and signs of inflammation. They found the thyroiditis in people with moderate to severe COVID-19 disease differs from typical thyroiditis in several ways. These include the absence of neck pain, the presence of mild thyroid dysfunction, higher frequency among men and the association with severe COVID-19 disease. 

Earlier Study Found That COVID-19 Can Damage Endocrine System

A study by Sri Lankan researchers last year found that this disease damages the endocrine system, which is made up of the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries and the testicles. It is actually the collection of glands that produce hormones to regulate your metabolism, tissue function, reproduction, overall development and also your sleep and mood. Any malfunctioning of the endocrine system can lead to serious issues like diabetes and thyroid imbalance. The Journal of the Endocrine Society published this study.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/news

 

March 22, 2021

 Second wave of Covid hits Karnataka; These states are least affected

Amid a sudden spike in Covid-19 cases in India, Karnataka Health Minister K.Sudhakar said on Sunday that the second wave of Covid has begun in the state. This comes after a consistent rise in daily coronavirus cases has stoked fresh concerns in the worst-hit states in India. Following the surge, he urged people to follow guidelines to contain the spread of coronavirus

“As we are at the beginning of the second wave of coronavirus across the state, I appeal to the people to strictly follow Covid guidelines and remain safe,” he told media. The state bulletin confirmed on Saturday that 1,798 cases were registered on Friday, taking the state’s tally to 9.68 lakh, including 12,828 active cases. 

Government Asked Everyone To Be Careful Amid Rising Covid Cases

“The state technical advisory committee of experts has told us (government) to control certain activities to prevent the pandemic from spreading further. I will discuss the panel’s advice with Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on Monday and the additional steps to be taken to control the situation,” said Sudhakar, who is a medical doctor by profession. 

“The panel has also warned that people will be in trouble if they continue to violate guidelines like wearing a mask, maintaining physical distancing, washing hands and avoid going out unless essential to stay away from public places,” he added.

States Least Affected By The ‘Second Wave’

The coronavirus cases in several states are showing an upward trend. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat are the top five states experiencing the rapid surge in Covid-19. While the coronavirus cases in some states are constantly increasing, there are some states where the daily spike or the fatality rate is under control.

According to official reports by the Health Ministry, a total of 16 states have not reported the lethal virus in the last 24 hours, including Andhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Lakshadweep, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Nagaland, Tripura, Ladakh (UT), Manipur, Mizoram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Arunachal Pradesh.

While vaccines are available to combat the coronavirus, it is essential to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. The government also issued advertisements to create awareness on complying with the guidelines.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/

 

March 19, 2021

 Beware: Slow walkers with normal weight four times more likely to die from COVID-19

Since the beginning of the global pandemic, we have known that people with underlying health conditions and the elderly are at more risk of severe infection and death if they catch the COVID-19 virus. The risk is also high for obese people. Now a new study says that people who walk slowly are almost four times more likely to die from COVID-19. Moreover, they also have over twice the risk of contracting a severe version of the virus. This study was conducted by a team of researchers from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Leicester. The International Journal of Obesity published this study, titled ‘Obesity, walking pace and risk of severe COVID-19 and mortality: Analysis of UK Biobank’. 

Slow Walkers With Normal Weight At Risk Too

This study looked at 412,596 middle-aged UK Biobank participants. Researchers analysed the relative association of body mass index (BMI) and self-reported walking pace with the risk of contracting severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 mortality. They found that slow walkers of a normal weight are almost 2.5 times more likely to develop severe COVID-19 and 3.75 times more likely to die from the virus than normal weight fast walkers. It was already known that obesity and frailty are key risk factors for COVID-19 outcomes. This is the first study to show that slow walkers have a much higher risk of contracting severe COVID-19 outcomes, irrespective of their weight. 

Risk Higher Than Fast Walkers With Obesity

A further key finding from this research was that normal weight slow walkers are more at risk for both severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 mortality than fast walkers with obesity. Furthermore, risk was uniformly high in normal weight slow walkers and slow walkers with obesity. Researchers say that fast walkers have been shown to generally have good cardiovascular and heart health, making them more resilient to external stressors, including viral infection but this hypothesis has not yet been established for infectious disease. This may be the reason for their reduced risk. 

Physical Fitness Is An Important Risk Predictor

While many large routine database studies have reported the association of obesity and fragility with COVID-19 outcomes, routine clinical databases do not currently have data on measures of physical function or fitness. According to researchers, it is essential that ongoing public health and research surveillance studies consider incorporating simple measures of physical fitness such as self-reported walking pace in addition to BMI, as potential risk predictors of COVID-19 outcomes that could ultimately enable better prevention methods that save lives.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/

 

March 17, 2021

 

People living with HIV demand Rs 12.5K monthly salary, exclusive drop-in-centres for women

India is one of the countries with the highest rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes AIDS. By the end of 2019, South Africa had the highest number of HIV/AIDS cases at 7.2 million, followed by Mozambique (2.2 million), India (2.1 million) and Nigeria (1.8 million). According to the India HIV Estimation 2019 report, the HIV prevalence among adults (aged 15-49) was estimated at 0.22%. Overall, India’s HIV epidemic has been declining after the epidemic’s peak in the year 2000. Though there is no complete cure for HIV/AIDS, people with HIV can live long and healthy lives with antiretroviral therapy (ART) which controls the virus. If you stop taking ART drugs, the virus can spike again. HIV services, including antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs, are offered free to everyone who needs them under the national Aids control programme at drop-in-centres (DICs). People Living with HIV (PLHIV) are also given counselling, psycho-social support and legal advice at these centres. 

The government has already sanctioned 32 DICs for addressing the immediate needs for care, support, treatment, counselling & protection for the PLHIV. But the Networks of People Living with HIV have demanded political parties to provide 12 more drop-in-centres exclusively for women and children affected with HIV. In addition, the organization has sought a minimum of Rs 12,500 per month as salary under the Employment Guarantee scheme for those working in government and non-government sectors. The Positive Women Network, Indian Network for people living with HIV, 30 districts with PLHIV and 20 NGO’s came together to raise the demand. 

 

Free Education For Children Living With HIV

The Positive Women Network leader, P. Kousalya, has also appealed to the political parties to increase the budget allocation of DICs from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh, reported IANS. 

 Other demands of the organisation include free education to children living with HIV under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, funds for women-centric programmes, mainly for the prevention of primary infection among women and reduction of stigma faced by people living with HIV. It is estimated that women account for over half the number of people living with HIV worldwide. Young women (10-24 years old) are twice as likely to acquire HIV as young men the same age because of vulnerabilities created by unequal cultural, social and economic status.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/news

 

March 15, 2021

 

Cats with chronic kidney disease may help inform treatment for humans in future

The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine is investigating how cats with chronic kidney disease could someday help inform treatment for humans.

In humans, treatment for chronic kidney disease -- a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should -- focuses on slowing the progression of the organ damage. The condition can progress to end-stage kidney failure, which is fatal without dialysis or a kidney transplant. An estimated 37 million people in the US suffer from chronic kidney disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates there are about 58 million cats in the United States. Chronic kidney disease affects 30-50% of cats age 15 years or older. The fibrosis or scarring that occurs as a result of the disease is a common final pathway for kidney disease in both animals and people. For cats, end-stage kidney disease has no effective cure.

In a new study published online by Frontiers in Veterinary Science in the Veterinary Regenerative Medicine platform, the WFIRM research team set out to test the effects of a cell-derived molecular therapy to treat kidney fibrosis in cats. Regenerative therapies using stem cells and vascular fractions have been tested, but the collection of cells or cell fractions is expensive, time consuming, and requires advanced cell processing capabilities not available in most veterinary general practices.

Alternatively, "The use of cell-based molecules to treat kidney fibrosis may be a promising approach," said lead author Julie Bennington, DVM, a WFIRM research fellow and PhD candidate. "Current treatments include pharmaceutical therapies and dietary management to slow disease progression and increase longevity, and alternatives are needed."

In this study, authors used a cell-signaling chemokine -- CXCL12 -- that is produced by cells and stimulates tissue regeneration. Recombinant human CXCL12 is commercially available, inexpensive, and has been shown to reduce fibrosis in rodent models of chronic kidney disease.

The goal of this study was to test the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of ultrasound-guided intra-renal CXCL12 injection in cats with chronic kidney fibrosis, first in a preclinical cat model, and, then in a pilot study in cats that may have early kidney disease.

"Results of these studies together show that intra-renal injection of CXCL12 may be a potential new therapy to treat early kidney disease in cats with a capability for widespread use," said co-author Koudy Williams, DVM, also of WFIRM. "Further clinical evaluations are needed."

Piedmont Animal Health, the company that funded the research, is preparing to set up a clinical pilot study in the US, and Bennington will serve as a consultant.

WFIRM Director Anthony Atala, MD, said this research is a good example of "how a condition like chronic kidney disease, common to both dogs and cats, can be studied and potentially applied to the disease in humans."

Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news

March 12, 2021

 

One in four people could face some degree of hearing loss by 2050, WHO report warns

One in four people across the world — nearly 2.5 billion — could face some degree of hearing loss by 2050 with at least 700 million requiring access to treatment and rehabilitation, a WHO report warns.

The first World Report on Hearing predicted that in 2050 the highest number of people with some degree of hearing loss is likely to be found in the WHO Western Pacific region — which includes Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam — with nearly 760 million, and the South-East Asia region — which includes Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Indonesia — with nearly 660 million.

The report emphasized the urgent need for initiatives to prevent and tackle hearing loss by funding and widening access to ear and hearing care services.

"Investment in ear and hearing care has been shown to be cost-effective," and governments can "expect a return of nearly US$16 for every US$1 invested," the WHO said in a press statement launching the report on 2 March.

Ear and hearing-related treatment is currently not integrated into the national health systems of most countries and human resources are often lacking, according to the report. It said 78 per cent of low-income countries have less than one ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist doctor per million population and 93 per cent have less than one audiologist per million population. The African region slightly fared better with some 56 per cent of all countries fewer than one ENT specialist per million of population.

By integrating ear and hearing care into primary health care, using strategies such as task sharing and training, inadequate human resources can be overcome, the report said, adding that early medical and surgical treatment, rehabilitation and the use of hearing aids and cochlear implants are valuable.

Nearly 60 per cent of hearing loss in children can be prevented by measures including immunization against rubella and meningitis, improvement in maternal and neonatal care, and screening for otitis media (middle ear inflammation). "In adults, noise control, safe listening and surveillance for ototoxic medicines (medicines used to treat serious infections but can also damage the ear) together with good ear hygiene can help maintain good hearing and reduce the potential for hearing loss," the report noted.

Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news

March 10, 2021

 Is it safe to not wear a mask after getting fully vaccinated for COVID-19? Experts explain

India began its mass immunization program against novel coronavirus on 16th February. So far more than 2,30,08,733 doses of vaccination have been administered in the country. But, what happens after that? are you safe from coronavirus once you get vaccinated? Let’s understand. First of all, you are required to take two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine shot to get complete immunity against the virus. Certain measures are also to be taken to make sure that the vaccine is working against the virus. Once you get the two doses of the vaccine, you achieve immunity, and this is when you can call yourself safe. Now, what happens after? According to the latest reports, the CDC has said that a fully vaccinated individual can gather with other vaccinated people indoors without wearing a mask or social distancing.

 

The recommendations also say that vaccinated people can come together in the same way with people considered at low-risk for severe diseases, such as in the case of vaccinated grandparents visiting healthy children and grandchildren. What about the ones who are not vaccinated – can a fully vaccinated individual meet that person without a mask? Yes, those who are fully vaccinated can also visit unvaccinated people from one other household indoors without masks or distancing so long as the unvaccinated people are not at high risk for severe COVID-19.

 

 

Who Is At Higher Risk Of Getting COVID-19?

Experts have revealed that the virus that causes COVID can actually infect people of any age. Coming to the diseases or health complications that can make a person prone to get the virus, experts say individuals with underlying medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are at higher risk.

 

Can A Fully Vaccinated Individual Catch COVID-19?

When the body of a person gets injected with the vaccine, it makes antibodies against the virus, and thus the person is immunized from the virus attack. But there is one question that has been in talks for a long time – Can a fully vaccinated individual also get the virus back? So far there is no evidence that any of the currently available COVID-19 vaccines can stop the individual from getting the virus back. Studies have failed to come to a conclusion of whether or not a person who is getting the vaccine shot is completely immune from COVID-19.

However, fully-vaccinated people who come into contact with someone who has COVID-19 are not required to take a test or quarantine unless they show symptoms — unless they live in a congregate setting like a nursing home or correctional facility.

When Can You Call A Person Fully Vaccinated?

A person is considered to be fully vaccinated only two weeks after getting the second dose in a two-dose series of vaccines such as – Covaxin, Covisheild, Pfizer, or Moderna vaccines. Also for all those who are getting the single-dose vaccines like Johnson & Johnson’s, can only be considered fully vaccinated two weeks after a single dose of the vaccine.

Can A Fully Vaccinated Ditch The Mask In Public?

The CDC has recommended that fully-vaccinated people should not stop wearing the masks and must maintain social distancing in public, or in indoor gatherings involving people from more than one household. Also, the new guidance does not apply to meetings with people who have underlying conditions that place them at higher risk for severe COVID-19.

 

Source: www.thehealthsite.com/news/

 

March 8, 2021

 

India vaccinates 11.6L people against COVID-19 on Saturday, highest single-day vaccination

India completed the 50th day of its nationwide anti-COVID immunization on Saturday, achieving a total of 11,64,422 vaccine doses in a day – the highest single-day vaccination so far. While 9,44,919 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose, 2,19,503 healthcare workers and frontline workers received the second vaccine shot till 7 p.m, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. About 53.8 per cent of beneficiaries were people above 60 years of age, which indicates a higher turnout among senior citizens for the inoculation.  On Friday, 48 per cent of the total vaccination was contributed by senior citizens while it was 45 per cent on Thursday. As on 7 March 2021, 08:00 IST, a total of 2,09,22,344 vaccine doses have been administered in the country, where vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16, as per the Health Ministry website. 

The country rolled out the biggest vaccination drive on January 16 administering the COVID-19 vaccines to health workers and frontline workers in the first phase.  The second phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced from March 1 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specific comorbid conditions. 

Meanwhile, several Indian states are witnessing a resurge of infections amidst the COVID-19 vaccination. Maharashtra continues to report around 7,000 fresh COVID-19 cases on average since the past one week. In 6 days (between February 28 and March 5), the state added 51,612 fresh infections. On March 5, the state reported 10,259 new cases, the highest-ever hike since October 17, 2020. In view of the daily spike, lockdowns have been imposed in districts like Amravati till February 8. Schools and educational institutes are closed, and any social, cultural, religious, political gathering are banned in the state. Punjab, Kerala, and Karnataka are also witnessing a surge in daily cases. 

 Bengaluru is ramping up Covid-19 testing as well as the vaccination drive to keep a check on rise in the Covid-19 cases. Bengaluru civic body commissioner N Manjunath Parasad said on Saturday that pink booths will be launched to exclusively administer vaccination to women from March 8 on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

Karnataka reported 580 new Covid cases and five more deaths on Saturday, taking the total number of infections to 9,54,393 and toll to 12,359, according to health officials.

Source: www.thehealthsite.com

 

 

March 5, 2021

 

Corona passport: Not recommended but may be unavoidable, says WHO

As COVID-19 transmission rates once again begin to rise across the European region, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge urged the region to return to basics when dealing with the pandemic. As new cases of COVID-19 in Europe rose nine per cent to just above one million, it brought to an end a six-week decline in new cases and the stark realization that variants were making significant headway in the region, Kluge said during a virtual press conference here on Thursday, Xinhua news agency reported. According to Kluge, there are been a resurgence in central and Eastern Europe. New cases are also on the rise in several western European countries where rates were already high. However, the WHO official declined to offer the support to the creation of “corona passports” many countries in the EU have been mulling over. WHO does not recommend passports, but it may be unavoidable, he said. 

Corona Passports Come With Caveats, Says WHO

While acknowledging the “feasibility, and the desirability” of corona passports, Kluge told Xinhua that the “passports” came with “some caveats.” From a scientific point of view, how long does a vaccine give immunity? It is not so clear yet. And if you get a COVID-19 vaccine, it protects you but does not necessarily stop transmission. So, it’s not a watertight thing. 

Access To Vaccines More Important That Corona Passport

According to Kluge, the overarching concern for the WHO was rather an intelligent access to vaccines that would help to reduce vaccine inequality. What WHO is taking forward is a smart vaccination consumption. It is on the digital certification because it is important that whoever is vaccinated, there is a document there. 

Passport Discussion Ongoing

Kluge further reiterated that the WHO followed the international health regulations when it came to travel and trade and saw discussions on the issue of a passport as ongoing. The passport itself is not recommended by WHO. The certificate, of course, yes. And a number of very important considerations, which need to be taken into account, says Kluge.

Precautionary Methods Work Best

Meanwhile, the WHO Regional Director called for the need to return to “basics” using tools such as increased vigilance, improved testing, focus on prevention, re-engagement with communities, evidence-driven re-openings and an accelerated roll-out of vaccines if the region was to again drive back the coronavirus and its variants.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/news

 

March 2, 2021

 

Beware! Drinking these teas may do more harm than good

 

Herbal teas have become a prominent part of a heart-healthy eating plan. Soothing, aromatic tea has certainly earned a spot on the list of every fitness enthusiast out there. But one thing people fail to understand is that not everything is created equal, and the same goes for herbal teas. The type of tea you drink also makes a difference. While some studies have shown that herbal teas like white tea, oolong tea, etc. are beneficial for your health, some herbal teas can be dangerous. If you too are a tea lover, you should know which tea you should avoid in order to steer clear of any danger. 

Teas That Are Harmful To Your Health

While some teas are beneficial for your health, certain teas can be harmful. Here are the herbal teas that could be harmful to your health.

Detox Teas

Consuming detox drinks has become a popular practice for people. There has been no evidence that these drinks are beneficial for your health. In fact, detox teas are believed to contain some dangerous drugs and chemicals. While some detox teas are a harmless mix of tea leaves, some teas contain certain ingredients like senna, laxatives, high levels of caffeine, etc. that can lead to problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and even death in severe cases. 

Comfrey Tea

Made using the leaves of Symphytum Officinale, comfrey tea is known for treating aches and pains. Reportedly, this tea was used by ancient Greeks and Romans to heal injuries, but it can have some serious side effects. While for someone prone to injury, it is not a good idea to drink it in the long run. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids in great quantities can cause severe damage to the liver.

Lemon Flavored Tea

While it is okay to squeeze a fresh lemon into your tea, you should avoid a lemon-flavoured tea bag. Tea leaves used in these preparations are low in quality and contains a high amount of noxious metal that can worsen heartburn symptoms in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is advised that you should remove your tea bag or leaves from your brew adding the lemon, which affects alter your pH.

Kava Tea

Kava tea has recently got widespread attention for its relaxing and stress-producing properties, but it also has side effects. According to the US Food and Drug Administration has warned the products containing kava can lead to liver damage. It is advisable to consult your doctor who will recommend medication and advice you on its dosage.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is a yellow, star-shaped flower that is believed to treat symptoms of depression. But drinking St. John’s wort tea can be harmful to people suffering from heart problems. Studies have shown that it can be severely dangerous for people who are taking blood thinners or cardiac medications for heart failure.

Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/