No need to panic over heart attack deaths; annual cardiac evaluation advisable, say Medical Education and Health Ministers
Addressing a joint press conference, the Ministers said there was no rise as the average number of heart attack cases and deaths reported this year so far were similar to the last year's numbers.
Uncalled for panic
Following reports of a perceived rise in heart attack deaths in Hassan district, there has been a significant surge in the number of patients visiting speciality hospitals such as the State-run Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research for preventive checks. 'This has created an unusual situation,' Dr. Patil said.
Clarifying that there is no link between the COVID-19 vaccine and sudden heart attack deaths in Hassan, the Minister said, 'People should not doubt the vaccine. The belief that these cases are occurring only in Hassan is incorrect.'
Instead of panicking, people should focus on leading a healthy lifestyle, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly. 'Only those having symptoms of heart-related illness should go for a medical check-up. Do not rush to hospitals without a reason,' Dr. Patil said.
Post-COVID lifestyle
The Minister further noted that lifestyle changes after COVID-19 have led to a rise in risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. 'Dietary habits have changed, and stress levels have increased. We are studying the reasons behind the rise in deaths among the youth,' he said.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
COVID cases rising in 25 US States: How to stay safe during 2025's Summer Wave
The looming concern over yet another COVID-19 wave is here, as summer 2025 is witnessing a significant COVID‑19 surge across 25 US states – from Florida and Texas to California and Ohio – signaling the onset of a 'summer wave. ' After months of low transmission, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that COVID is resurging due to fading immunity and the emergence of new variants, notably NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain. Historically, summer spikes follow holiday travel, indoor retreat during heatwaves, and increased social gatherings. While vaccines and treatments have greatly lowered severe outcomes, this renewed surge calls for the need for layered protection. What's driving the 2025 summer wave? As the CDC reports, rising infections are occurring in about half of the states in the United States of America, with 25 showing clear increases, particularly in Florida, Texas, and California, which is linked to declining immunity and fresh variants like NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) and XFG. Now, NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain – is a dominant strain across 24–25 states. This strain, known for sore throat ('razor‑blade throat'), was first detected in March 2025. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo This particular strain has become the prevailing strain nationwide, known for its high transmissibility and causing sore and painful throats. However, the strain isn't linked to more severe illness. On the other hand, XFG and LP.8.1 , the other Omicron descendant variants are currently present at notable levels in wastewater samples. Moreover, there's a twice-yearly seasonality pattern to note. Following emerging trends, COVID‑19 is settling into a biannual cycle – peaking in summer and winter. Experts deduce, this likely results from viral evolution and immunity decay. Similar patterns have been observed since 2020, driven by a mix of behavioral changes and viral adaptation. Additionally, summer heat leads people indoors, where air conditioning tends to reduce ventilation and raise transmission risk. Topping that, post-holiday travel and gatherings, especially around July 4, have historically fueled seasonal spikes. All of which explains the steep surge in infections. How to stay safe during the 2025 summer wave: Although infections are rapidly surging across US states, the summer wave of COVID-19 has mostly mild to moderate symptoms. Hospitalizations and deaths remain lower compared to earlier pandemic peaks. However, people who are aged 65+, immunocompromised, pregnant, and with chronic illness – continue to face elevated risk. Moreover, long COVID, which is an ongoing concern due to post-infection repercussions, such as fatigue and brain fog, is still reported, even after mild illness. On the face of this summer 2025 wave, here are some tips on staying safe. Vaccination and boosting: Updated boosters are recommended, especially for older, immunocompromised, or those whose last dose was >6 months ago. Fall 2025 boosters matching recent variants will likely be available. It's advisable not to delay current doses while waiting. Masks in high-risk settings: Mask is a must. ALWAYS advocate for using masks (N95/KN95) indoors when crowded or poorly ventilated, such as transit, airports, and events. Healthcare workers, caregivers, and those in contact with high-risk people must continue using masks. Testing and isolation: Keep rapid antigen tests at home. Test when symptoms emerge or after exposures. If positive, isolate for at least 5 days, and consider masking on days 6–10. Ventilation and outdoor options: Use fans, open windows, and HEPA filters to improve air circulation indoors. Opt for outdoor dining, events, or gatherings whenever feasible – instead of being cooped up indoors. Hygiene and symptom vigilance: Finally, go back to basics. Wash your hands frequently or use sanitizer. Avoid touching your face after contact with shared surfaces. Be alert to key symptoms, especially sore throat, fever, and fatigue, and act quickly. How to Stay Safe During Summer Heat Waves
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
CEO alleges sick leave is a 'scam'; netizens roast him: 'Must be paying employees Rs 2..'
Kevan Sadigh, an entrepreneur and founder of REX Reservations, came under intense scrutiny after one of his LinkedIn posts was picked up and reshared by the popular X account affiliated with the subreddit 'LinkedIn Lunatics.' The post quickly gained traction across platforms, not for its insight, but for the controversial opinions Sadigh expressed regarding employee sick leave. His harsh stance on what constitutes being "sick" sparked widespread outrage and ridicule. Accusations Against the Sick Leave System In his now-viral LinkedIn post, Sadigh argued that the current system of taking medical leave lacks clarity and is open to manipulation. He implied that many workers exaggerate or fabricate their illnesses to gain time off. According to him, terms like "feeling unwell" or "being tired" are too vague and often misused. He suggested that this ambiguity promotes falsehoods and, in effect, encourages people to take more time off than necessary. "Sick days are a scam. The whole system is built on lies. What even counts as "sick"? Tired? Hungover? Just not feeling it today? People are incentivized to be sick, so they fake it. It's vague, encourages dishonesty, and actually incentivizes being sick," he wrote on LinkedIn. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Instead of separate sick leaves, he proposed a revamped model where paid time off (PTO) should be made flexible and straightforward. Employees, he claimed, should be allowed to use their PTO as they see fit—whether it's for resting, recovering, or vacationing. In his words, the emphasis should be placed on genuine wellness and rejuvenation, not on fabricated medical claims. REX Reservations' PTO Policy Sadigh elaborated on how his company approaches employee leave. At REX Reservations, he stated, every new hire is entitled to 15 days of PTO in the first year, increasing to 24 days after one year of employment. The company does not allow employees to carry over unused leave to the following year, aiming to promote a culture where people actively use their time off instead of hoarding it. His goal, he said, was to foster a work culture where health and recovery are prioritized over pushing through fatigue or lingering illnesses. He also added that if someone were truly falling ill frequently—say, taking 15 sick days a year—that should raise concerns about their overall health rather than just prompting a discussion about leave balances. Internet Users Clap Back The online reaction was swift and brutal. One user on X shared their own experience, noting they had only taken five sick days in the past eight years, four of which were due to COVID-19. The commenter accused Sadigh of lacking empathy and being out of touch with real-world working conditions. Others took a more sarcastic approach. One user joked that working at Sadigh's company would require an absurd commitment—400 hours a month for a salary of just 2 rupees. Another post mockingly compared Sadigh's views to those of slave owners from the 1700s, accusing him of treating employees like property and denying them basic human needs such as rest and recovery. — Whatsgoingonth (@Whatsgoingonth) — TSaylu (@TSaylu) Final Takeaway What began as an attempt by a CEO to advocate for a more flexible PTO model ended up drawing fierce criticism for its tone and perceived insensitivity. Instead of opening up a thoughtful conversation about employee wellness, the post became a lightning rod for public mockery and debates about workplace exploitation.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Maulana Azad dental science institute installs AI scanner to reduce wait time
New Delhi: Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences (MAIDS) has installed ScanOair, an AI-powered scanner capable of detecting common dental issues such as tooth decay, gum inflammation and teeth misalignment to improve diagnostic efficiency and reduce patient waiting time. The device, which uses artificial intelligence to provide a provisional diagnosis within minutes, is being positioned as a patient-friendly innovation, especially beneficial in a high-volume setting like MAIDS. Final diagnosis and treatment planning, however, will continue to be handled by dental specialists following clinical evaluation, institute officials said. You Can Also Check: Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi Speaking to TOI, Dr Gyanendra Kumar, professor and head of the department of comprehensive dentistry at MAIDS, said three ScanOair units have been installed on the ground floor near the registration counter and will be inaugurated on Wednesday by Delhi health minister Pankaj Kumar Singh. Each scanner costs approximately Rs 3 lakh. "The scanner is user-friendly and fully automated," Dr Kumar said. "Once the patient registers, they can select a preferred language, enter their name and WhatsApp number, and follow guided instructions. The machine adjusts its camera height, captures images from three angles — front, upper and lower — and generates a detailed AI-based report within five minutes." The scanner employs a three-layer AI system, detecting the mouth, jaw and appropriate camera angles. It also tilts to scan the roof of the mouth and identifies specific dental anomalies such as cavities, gum swelling, bleeding and even records body temperature. Patients receive a full PDF report on their WhatsApp, enabling them to consult doctors directly with the preliminary findings in hand. "With such a large OPD load, this system significantly reduces the time spent on routine oral examinations," Dr Kumar said, adding that assistants will be available to guide patients as needed. "Those who want to wait for a manual exam can still do so, but others can speed up the process with the scanner." Dr Arundeep Kaur, director principal of MAIDS, said the integration of ScanOair — supported by IDBI Bank under its CSR initiative — is a transformative step in streamlining care delivery. "It not only improves safety and efficiency in a post-COVID environment but also marks a major technological leap for govt dental institutions," she said.
