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Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
WHO wants more aid in Gaza before Israeli occupation
Geneva: The UN health agency on Tuesday said Israel should let it stock medical supplies to deal with a "catastrophic" health situation in Gaza before it seizes control of Gaza City. Israel has said its military would "take control" of Gaza City in a plan approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet that sparked a wave of global criticism. "We want to stock up, and we all hear about 'more humanitarian supplies are allowed in' -- well it's not happening yet, or it's happening at a way too low a pace," said Rik Peeperkorn, the World Health Organization's representative in the Palestinian territories. Fifty-two percent of medicines were running at zero stock, Peeperkorn said, speaking from Jerusalem. UN agencies warned last month that famine was unfolding in Gaza, with Israel severely restricting aid entry. Peeperkorn said the WHO was able to bring in fewer supplies than it wanted "due to the cumbersome procedures" and products "still denied" entry -- a topic of constant negotiation with the Israeli authorities. "We want to as quickly stock up hospitals... following the news -- the whole discussion about an incursion in Gaza," he said. "We currently cannot do that... We need to be able to get all essential medicines and medical supplies in." Peeperkorn said only 50 percent of hospitals and 38 percent of primary health care centres were functioning, and that too partially. Bed occupancy has reached 240 percent capacity in the Al-Shifa hospital and 300 percent Al-Ahli Hospital in northern Gaza. "The overall health situation remains catastrophic," he said. "Hunger and malnutrition continue to ravage Gaza". Peeperkorn said 148 people died from the effects of malnutrition this year, citing August 5 as the cut-off date. Nearly 12,000 children aged under five were identified to be suffering from acute malnutrition in July -- the highest monthly figure recorded to date in Gaza, Peeperkorn said. These include 2,562 children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, of whom 40 were hospitalised at stabilisation centres.


News18
8 hours ago
- News18
Is It True That Dengue Mosquitoes Only Bite In The Morning?
Last Updated: In the fight against dengue, accurate information is as important as medical care because prevention begins with knowledge. Hospitals have seen a rapid surge in dengue cases in recent times. With this rising trend comes a common question: Do dengue mosquitoes really bite only in the morning? Dr Ajay Nair, Sr Consultant, Internal Medicine, Narayana Hospital, Jaipur shares all you need to know: Understanding Dengue and Its Carrier Dengue fever is caused by the bite of mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus (DENV) and is transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti and, to a lesser extent, Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These vectors are well-adapted to urban environments, thriving in stagnant water around homes, offices, and public spaces. Once infected, the mosquito can remain a carrier for its lifetime, transmitting the virus to humans every time it bites. Unlike malaria, which is spread by Anopheles mosquitoes active at night, Aedes mosquitoes cannot be linked to a single time frame, as their biting patterns vary. This often causes confusion about the timing of their bites. The Feeding Habits: Science Over Assumptions The peak activity of the Aedes aegypti mosquito has been recorded in the early morning and late afternoon, as documented in multiple entomological studies, including those published by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme of India. The highest activity typically occurs for about two hours after sunrise and several hours before sunset. However, their bites do not occur only in the morning. While early daylight hours see the most concentrated activity, Aedes mosquitoes can bite throughout the day, particularly in shaded indoor areas with low light. Dengue cases typically rise during the monsoon, when breeding sites multiply and mosquito activity remains high almost throughout the day until evening. This flexibility increases the chances of virus transmission, especially in densely populated areas. Clearing the Misconception The belief that dengue mosquitoes bite only in the morning likely stems from early observations showing higher bite counts after sunrise. While this is statistically accurate as a trend, it is not the whole picture. People are still at risk during other active hours, particularly in the late afternoon and early evening. Prevention: Beyond the Clock Since the Aedes mosquito's activity is not limited to one specific time of day, dengue prevention must be a continuous effort. Medical recommendations from Narayana Health Hospital include: Controlling the surroundings Make it a habit to empty stagnant water from containers such as flower pots, buckets, utensils in the sink, discarded tyres, and open storage tanks. Frequently change water in plant trays and bird baths, and always cover stored water. Remember, Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean water too. Installing physical barriers Use mesh screens for doors and windows, wear long-sleeved clothing, and keep doors closed during peak mosquito activity. Using repellents Apply mosquito repellent creams or sprays on exposed skin every few hours during daylight, not just in the morning. Alternatively, use mosquito nets. Community action Participate in neighbourhood clean-up drives to remove puddles and water collected in discarded items. Fumigation can also help reduce mosquito populations. Prevention during travel When visiting dengue-hit areas or places experiencing heavy rains, ensure you are protected from bites regardless of the time of day. Why Awareness Matters Millions worldwide suffer from the effects of dengue fever, with India bearing a significant share of the global burden. Misunderstanding mosquito behaviour can lead to carelessness, inadvertently increasing infection rates. The idea that dengue mosquitoes bite exclusively in the morning oversimplifies their complex behaviour. While Aedes aegypti activity may peak just after sunrise and before sunset, bites can occur at other times too. Public health protection relies not on a specific 'danger hour," but on vigilance from dawn to dusk. By consistently following preventive measures, individuals and communities can significantly reduce transmission. In the fight against dengue, accurate information is as important as medical care because prevention begins with knowledge. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.


Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
Herpes virus triggers mood disorders through neurological impact
Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which primarily affects the skin, mouth, and genital regions. While most people associate herpes with visible sores or occasional flare-ups, the virus has a unique ability to remain dormant in nerve cells and reactivate unpredictably, often triggered by stress, illness, or a weakened immune system. This ability to lie hidden makes herpes a persistent and sometimes underestimated health concern. Beyond the more familiar physical symptoms, recent research done by Frontiers in Microbiology , WHO and studies published in NIH has uncovered a surprising and less-discussed dimension of herpes: its potential impact on neurological and psychological health. In particular, human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) has been linked to mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. The virus can infect neurons and trigger neuroinflammation, disrupting normal brain function and potentially influencing cognition, emotional regulation, and overall mental well-being. These findings underscore the need for broader awareness of herpes beyond its skin-related manifestations. Understanding the virus's full spectrum of effects can help medical professionals develop targeted treatment strategies, including antiviral therapies and interventions to support neurological and psychological health. For individuals living with herpes, early detection, regular monitoring, and comprehensive care can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications. Understanding herpes virus and its neurological impact Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a strain of the herpes virus that can infect a variety of cells, including neurons in the brain. Research published in Frontiers in Microbiology demonstrates that HHV-6 has the ability to target Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, which play a vital role in motor control, coordination, and cognitive functions. Infection of these neurons can interfere with normal brain activity, potentially leading to cognitive disturbances, impaired motor skills, and an increased risk of mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. These findings highlight that herpes is far more than a skin or genital infection, it can have profound effects on neurological and psychological health. Understanding the virus's broader impact is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies, early detection protocols, and preventive measures. By recognizing the full scope of HHV-6's potential effects on the brain, medical professionals and patients alike can adopt more comprehensive approaches to managing and mitigating its long-term consequences. How herpes virus triggers neuroinflammation in mood disorders One of the primary ways the herpes virus can impact mental health is through neuroinflammation according to a study in NIH . When herpes infects neurons, it can trigger an inflammatory response in the brain, interfering with normal neural signaling and communication. This virus-induced inflammation has been linked to psychiatric conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, and cognitive disturbances. Researchers are actively investigating how controlling or reducing neuroinflammation could help mitigate the neurological and psychological effects of herpes. By combining antiviral therapies with strategies aimed at calming inflammation in the brain, medical professionals may be able to offer a dual approach to treatment, addressing both the viral activity and its neurological consequences. This integrated perspective not only broadens understanding of herpes beyond its physical symptoms but also opens new avenues for improving mental health outcomes in affected individuals. Herpes virus, genetics, and environmental factors Mood disorders are complex conditions shaped by a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental influences. Among these environmental factors, herpes virus can act as a trigger, potentially worsening psychiatric symptoms in individuals who have a genetic vulnerability. According to a study published in NIH , by infecting neurons and promoting neuroinflammation, herpes may amplify existing risks for conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Recognizing herpes as a contributing factor in mental health challenges allows researchers and clinicians to develop more holistic treatment approaches. These strategies aim not only to control viral activity but also to address its psychological and neurological consequences. Understanding the interplay between genetic susceptibility and viral triggers can lead to more personalized therapies, early interventions, and improved outcomes for individuals affected by both herpes and mood disorders. Emerging herpes treatments and research While antiviral medications like acyclovir and valacyclovir effectively manage herpes outbreaks according to WHO , emerging research is exploring therapies that could address herpes' neurological effects. Key areas include: Targeted antiviral therapies: Personalized regimens to reduce viral reactivation and minimize neuroinflammation. Herpes vaccines: Early-stage research aims to prevent both initial infection and recurring outbreaks. Anti-inflammatory interventions: Medications or lifestyle strategies to reduce herpes-related brain inflammation. These approaches may not only control herpes physically but also alleviate associated mood disturbances. Reducing stigma around herpes and mental health Stigma surrounding herpes often intensifies its psychological impact. Many individuals living with the virus experience feelings of shame, embarrassment, or social anxiety, which can prevent them from seeking timely medical care. This reluctance not only exacerbates mood disorders such as depression and anxiety but also reduces adherence to treatment, potentially worsening physical and mental health outcomes. Raising public awareness about herpes, providing accurate sexual health education, and fostering open, nonjudgmental conversations about the infection can play a critical role in reducing stigma. When people feel informed and supported, they are more likely to seek medical advice, adhere to treatment plans, and manage both the physical and psychological effects of the virus. Addressing stigma is therefore essential for improving mental health outcomes, promoting overall well-being, and empowering individuals to lead confident, healthy lives despite a herpes diagnosis. Herpes is more than a virus causing visible outbreaks; it has the potential to affect neurological and mental health through infection and inflammation of the brain. By recognizing herpes as a factor in mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, healthcare providers and patients can adopt strategies that combine antiviral treatment, mental health support, and lifestyle interventions. Increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and advancing research are key to helping those affected by herpes live healthier, more confident lives. Also read| Avoid these 6 exercises if you have arthritis or joint instability: Protect your knees and hips "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."