Latest news with #TranslationDesk
News18
7 days ago
- Health
- News18
How One Drug Wiped Out 99% Of India's Vultures In Less Than 20 Years
Curated By : Parishmita Saikia Translation Desk Last Updated: May 28, 2025, 16:21 IST Ingesting traces of Diclofenac caused acute kidney failure in vultures, but despite its ban in India in 2006, illegal use persists. (News18) Once a common sight circling above carcasses, vultures have all but vanished from India's skies. Research by the University of Chicago revealed that between 1990 and 2007, 99% of the vulture population in India perished. This collapse has had dire consequences: in the absence of these natural scavengers, infections from decaying animal carcasses have spread, reportedly contributing to five lakh human deaths. The Diclofenac Disaster The principal culprit behind this ecological tragedy is the veterinary drug Diclofenac, commonly used in the 1990s to treat livestock. Though effective, Diclofenac residues in cattle carcasses proved lethal to vultures. Ingesting even trace amounts caused acute kidney failure in the birds. Despite India banning the drug in 2006, its illegal use still persists. Alarming Decline Rates India was once home to an estimated 40 to 50 million vultures. By 2007, that number had dropped catastrophically. Populations of: White-rumped vultures (Gyps bengalensis) declined by 99.9% declined by 99.9% Indian vultures (Gyps indicus) by 95% by 95% Slender-billed vultures (Gyps tenuirostris) by 97% This marks one of the fastest recorded declines of any bird species in history. WWF India Poster Threats Beyond Diclofenac Even after the ban, vulture populations have not rebounded. Vultures breed slowly, laying just one egg annually, and face numerous other threats including: Electrocution from power lines Collisions with wind turbines Injuries from kite strings Their absence has triggered a rise in feral dog and crow populations, increasing the risk of rabies and other zoonotic diseases. Cultural And Economic Fallout Swipe Left For Next Video View all The decline also impacts cultural practices. The Parsi community, which conducts sky burials dependent on vulture scavenging, has had to alter funeral rites. The economic toll is staggering too. Between 2000 and 2005, losses due to vulture extinction were estimated at $69.4 billion annually, affecting industries like leather production. Since 2016, India has undertaken conservation efforts, including the reintroduction of protected vulture species into the wild. However, experts stress that community engagement and stringent enforcement of Diclofenac bans are critical for reversing this crisis. News lifestyle How One Drug Wiped Out 99% Of India's Vultures In Less Than 20 Years
News18
7 days ago
- Health
- News18
Covid-19: 4-Month-Old Tests Positive Despite Entire Family Testing Negative
Curated By : Diksha Modi Translation Desk Last Updated: May 28, 2025, 16:58 IST The infant has been admitted to Kailash Hospital in Noida for close monitoring. (Representational Image) As Covid-19 cases begin to show a renewed uptick across the country, Ghaziabad has confirmed 14 active coronavirus cases, with one recent infection that has sent ripples of concern through the medical community. A four-month-old child from Mehrauli tested positive for Covid-19, becoming the youngest case in the area. According to health department sources, the infant had been suffering from mild cold and fever for two consecutive days. Initially dismissing the symptoms as seasonal flu due to changing weather, the child's family eventually sought medical attention at a private hospital in Noida. There, on the advice of pediatric specialists, the child underwent a Covid-19 test, which returned positive. The news quickly prompted a swift response from the Ghaziabad health department. Medical teams immediately tested the infant's family members, all of whom were found to be Covid-negative. Despite the absence of positive cases within the household, officials recommended that the entire family remain in home quarantine as a precautionary measure. Additional Chief Medical Officer of Ghaziabad, Dr RK Gupta, said that none of the family members of the Covid-positive child showed any signs of infection, despite being in constant contact with the child. 'How the virus reached the infant remains under investigation," he added. Swipe Left For Next Video View all Dr Gupta confirmed that of the 14 active Covid-19 cases in Ghaziabad, 13 patients are currently recovering at home, while one remains hospitalised. The infant has been admitted to Kailash Hospital in Noida for close monitoring. In response to the case, the health department initiated a sanitisation drive in the Mehrauli area. Nearby residents are undergoing screening, and authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant. The district administration has reinforced its appeal to the public to follow government-issued Covid protocols, including mask-wearing in public spaces, hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded places. News india Covid-19: 4-Month-Old Tests Positive Despite Entire Family Testing Negative
News18
25-04-2025
- Health
- News18
10 Countries With The Highest Life Expectancy
Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: Top countries with highest life expectancy: Monaco (87 years), Hong Kong (85.8), Macau (85.5), Japan (85), and Liechtenstein (84.8) The dream of living a long, fulfilling life has remained a timeless human aspiration. A happy family, the laughter of grandchildren, a peaceful retirement, and a healthy old age—these are images many of us hope will define our later years. In recent decades, remarkable advancements in medicine, technology, and public health awareness have led to a significant increase in global life expectancy. However, only a select group of countries have achieved exceptional progress in this area. In these nations, citizens are living well beyond the age of 84 on average, offering powerful examples for the rest of the world. Below are the top 10 countries with the highest life expectancy, based on global health statistics: Monaco – 87 years: Nestled on the French Riviera, Monaco tops the global list. The nation's enviable longevity is attributed to a combination of superior healthcare, a peaceful and clean environment, a Mediterranean diet, and regular physical activity. Hong Kong – 85.8 years: In Hong Kong, walking is a way of life, and the typical diet is rich in seafood and vegetables. The region benefits from free healthcare, top-tier hospitals, and proactive public health initiatives. Macau – 85.5 years: A special administrative region of China, Macau features a robust healthcare infrastructure and a cultural emphasis on traditional diets and staying active, even in old age. Japan – 85 years: Japan, long celebrated for the longevity of its citizens—especially women—relies on a nutrient-rich diet, daily physical activity, community support, and world-class medical care. Liechtenstein – 84.8 years: This small European nation offers its residents clean air, natural surroundings, and a high standard of living, all contributing to their extended lifespan. Italy – 84.2 years: The heart of the Mediterranean diet, Italy's traditional meals of olive oil, vegetables, fruit, and seafood, are coupled with close-knit family structures and a generally relaxed pace of life. Vatican City – 84.2 years: Despite its tiny size, Vatican City enjoys a low-stress, serene environment that promotes long and peaceful lives for its residents. South Korea – 84.1 years: South Korea stands out for its preventive health education, active ageing programmes, and a diet that includes fermented foods, seafood, and vegetables, all of which support well-being. What These Countries Teach Us About Longevity A close look at these nations reveals a pattern: These factors consistently emerge as the key for a longer life. While genetics may play a role, many longevity boosters are well within our control. Simple adjustments to diet, physical activity, and mental well-being can have a profound impact. By following the example of these countries, individuals and societies alike can take meaningful steps towards healthier, longer lives. First Published: April 25, 2025, 16:26 IST
