Latest news with #yellowfever
Al Bawaba
5 days ago
- Science
- Al Bawaba
Study: Skrillex music could protect you from mosquito bites
ALBAWABA - A 2019 study has recently resurfaced on social media after showcasing that Skrillex's song, "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites," is an effective mosquito bite repellent. The study revealed that the iconic Dubstep track can significantly reduce the number of bites from mosquitoes upon hearing it. The study published by Acta Tropica in June 2019 revealed that dupstep can affect female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, best known as yellow fever mosquitoes. Upon hearing "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites" for 10 minutes, the mosquitoes took longer to attack hosts and made fewer visits. Scientists chose "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites" specifically for its low and high frequencies, which vastly affected the mosquitoes. A study has shown that Skrillex's song 'Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites' reduced the number of mosquito bites among bugs exposed to the dubstep track — Dexerto (@Dexerto) August 13, 2025 According to the BBC, the scientist said, "In insects, low-frequency vibrations facilitate sexual interactions, whereas noise disrupts the perception of signals from conspecifics [members of the same species] and hosts." They added, "The observation that such music can delay host attack, reduce blood feeding, and disrupt mating provides new avenues for the development of music-based personal protective and control measures against Aedes-borne diseases." Acta Tropica also reported that the insects' sexual activity decreased because of the music, adding that female mosquitoes were "entertained" by it. A social media user wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter), "Imagine mosquitoes evolving to hate EDM, bet they're massive swifties tho." Another added, "No way? Bout to play that on repeat all summer long."
Asia News Network
12-08-2025
- Health
- Asia News Network
Japanese encephalitis spreads, but Nepal has no vaccine
August 12, 2025 KATHMANDU – The number of cases of Japanese encephalitis (JE) infection has reached 33, up from 13 some 10 days ago. Along with the new cases, the number of deaths and districts reporting outbreaks of the deadly virus have also risen—three deaths and 18 districts. Health ministry's data show the case fatality rate among infected people is over nine percent, and the rise in the spread of the infection clearly indicates that the country is again witnessing a resurgence of the deadly disease, which has killed and infected thousands of people in the past. The unvaccinated make up most of those infected and dead. Experts warn that without vaccination, these vulnerable populations are at high risk, and the government has yet to take decisive action to contain the outbreak. 'Vaccination is a proven and effective method to contain the spread of the JE virus,' said Dr Yasho Vardhan Pradhan, former director general at the Department of Health Services. 'As the country has again witnessed a resurgence of the JE outbreak, vaccination is the only way to save lives and prevent permanent neurologic, cognitive and behavioural sequelae.' JE is a viral brain infection endemic to Asia and parts of the Western Pacific. According to the World Health Organisation, it is a mosquito-borne flavivirus belonging to the same family as dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses. The virus kills a third of those who fall ill and leaves up to half of the survivors with severe lifelong disabilities, according to the UN health body. Last year, 23 people succumbed to the disease, including one in the Kathmandu Valley, and over 80 people were infected. Doctors say the actual number of cases could be much higher, as tests were carried out only on hospitalised patients with severe symptoms. This year, Morang, Bara, Jhapa, Saptari, Siraha, Sarlahi, Parsa, Nawalparasi West, Sindhuli, Bardia, and Chitwan districts have reported JE cases. Five provinces—Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini have reported JE infection. Data show that mortality rate among people above 15 years of age is higher compared to those below 15, which indicates that those not receiving JE vaccine are at high risk of infection. Experts say the unvaccinated population is at high risk of deaths and complications of JE infection. However, health authorities do not have immediate plans to vaccinate the unvaccinated population. 'We have capacity and human resources, but we currently don't have the vaccine,' said Dr Abhiyan Gautam, chief of the Immunisation Section at the Family Welfare Division under the Department of Health Services. 'We don't have a budget to buy the vaccine. We have also requested our development partners, but there is no response.' Gautam said various preventive measures, including awareness drives, environment management for vector control, and case management training for doctors in health facilities, have been taken in disease-hit districts. However, the rise in the number of infections in Tarai districts shows that those measures are not very effective. Health Ministry officials admit that JE is the number one killer among vector-borne diseases, and vaccination could help control the spread of infections. They said that their attempts to convince development partners, including the World Health Organisation, to support a mass JE vaccination campaign have not succeeded over the past year. 'Despite knowing how dangerous the JE virus is, we are not able to do much to administer a vaccine to the unvaccinated population,' said Dr Bibek Kumar Lal, director at the Family Welfare Division, under the Department of Health Services. 'We held multiple rounds of meetings with development partners and requested help for the vaccine, but could not convince them.' In 2005, JE killed nearly 2,000 people in Nepal—mostly children from Tarai districts. Nepal started administering the JE vaccine in 2006, eight years before the World Health Organisation officially issued prequalification certification, due to the high rates of infection and deaths from the virus at the time. In the first phase, all populations of the highly affected four districts—Banke, Bardiya, Dang, and Kailali—reveived the JE vaccine. Later, the vaccination programme was expanded to 19 other affected districts, and children under 15 were inoculated. The government integrated the JE vaccine into routine immunisation in 2015. Still, people continue to die and dozens get infected by the deadly virus every year. Public health experts say this is the right time to vaccinate all those at risk. Even if the vaccine does not help in outbreak management, it provides immunity against future infections, according to them. 'Every year, the Health Ministry could spend only around 60 percent of the allocated budget, so budget should not be an issue to save the lives of the population,' said Pradhan, who is also an immunisation expert. 'Along with vaccination, authorities must take other measures to prevent further spread of the deadly disease.' Doctors say complications from JE infection can cause permanent injuries to the brain and the nervous system. The disease has no cure, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. However, safe and effective vaccines have been developed to prevent infection. The JE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. Pigs and ducks are considered natural reservoirs of the virus. Doctors advise avoiding mosquito bites, such as by using mosquito repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothes, and getting vaccinated if one lives in or travels to disease-endemic areas. They also stress the importance of awareness and timely treatment to prevent infections and deaths. An estimated 12.5 million people are thought to be at high risk of JE infection in Nepal.
Asia News Network
08-08-2025
- Health
- Asia News Network
Two dead, 11 infected this year as Japanese Encephalitis hits 9 districts in Nepal
August 8, 2025 KATHMANDU – At least two people died and 11 others have been infected with the Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus that has spread in nine districts of the country since January. Of the deceased, one is a 49 years old male from ward 7 of Kanepokhari Rural Municipality in Morang district and another is a 17 years old male from ward 2 of Devtal Rural Municipality in Bara district. Of the 11 people infected with the deadly disease, four have recovered, and the remaining seven are still receiving treatment. Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection endemic to Asia and parts of the Western Pacific. According to the World Health Organisation, it is a mosquito-borne flavivirus belonging to the same family as dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses. The virus kills a third of those who fall ill and leaves up to a half of the survivors with severe lifelong disabilities, according to the UN health body. Last year, 23 people succumbed to the disease, including one in the Kathmandu Valley, and over 80 people were infected. This year, in addition to Morang and Bara districts, Jhapa, Saptari, Siraha, Sarlahi, Parsa, Nawalparasi West, and Chitwan districts have also reported JE cases. Officials say the actual number of cases could be much higher, as tests were carried out only on hospitalised patients with severe symptoms. Data from the Ministry of Health and Population show that only one nine-year-old patient was found inoculated with the JE vaccine. Four infected persons, including one of the deceased, had not received the vaccine, and the vaccination status of the remaining eight patients is unknown. Five of the infected persons are children. Data shows that the mortality rate among people above 15 years of age is higher compared to those below 15, which indicates that those not receiving JE vaccine are at high risk of infection. Doctors say complications from JE infection can cause permanent injuries to the brain and the nervous system. The disease has no cure, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. However, safe and effective vaccines have been developed to prevent infection. Health officials said their attempts to convince development partners, including the World Health Organisation, to support a mass JE vaccination campaign have not succeeded over the past year. In 2005, JE killed nearly 2,000 people in Nepal—mostly children from Tarai districts. Nepal started administering the JE vaccine in 2006, eight years before the World Health Organisation officially issued prequalification certification, due to the high rates of infection and deaths from the virus at the time. In the first phase, all populations of the highly affected four districts—Banke, Bardiya, Dang, and Kailali—reveived the JE vaccine. Later, the vaccination programme was expanded to 19 other affected districts, and children under 15 were inoculated. The government integrated the JE vaccine into routine immunisation in 2015. Still, people continue to die and dozens get infected by the deadly virus every year. Public health experts say this is the right time to vaccinate all those at risk. Even if the vaccine does not help in outbreak management, it provides immunity against future infections, according to them. The JE virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. Pigs and ducks are considered natural reservoirs of the virus. Doctors advise avoiding mosquito bites, such as by using mosquito repellents, wearing long-sleeved clothes, and getting vaccinated if one lives in or travels to disease-endemic areas. They also stress the importance of awareness and timely treatment to prevent infections and deaths. An estimated 12.5 million people are thought to be at high risk of JE infection in Nepal.
Daily Mail
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Health chiefs issue urgent warning as vital vaccine is 'out of stock' in the UK
Holidaymakers may be at risk of contracting a deadly infection that could make their eyes bleed due to an extreme shortage of the vaccine that protects against it. The yellow fever jab is predicted to be unavailable for the next two to three weeks, according to a report published by the Foreign Office. Yellow fever is a serious and life-threatening infection predominately spread by mosquitos in certain parts of Africa, South and Central America and the Caribbean. Whilst most people who contract the viral infection experience mild flu-like symptoms before making a full recovery, in some cases it can be fatal. Patients who develop a severe illness with fever, jaundice—yellowing of the eyes and skin—dark urine, stomach pain and bleeding for from the eyes, nose, mouth or stomach are at significant risk of death, the NHS warns. The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), a UK based organisation that works closely with the Foreign Office, recommends anyone travelling to these countries to get vaccinated against the infection. However, Sanofi, the manufactures of the yellow fever vaccine have now warned that it could be out of stock for up to three weeks, putting travellers at serious risk. The yellow fever vaccine—which costs around £70—is offered to anyone over the age of nine months who is travelling to a high-risk area, or a country that requires certification of vaccination. Current guidelines advise travellers to get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel, to allow enough time for the vaccine to work. For most people, the vaccine should provide lifelong protection against yellow fever, but a further dose is recommended to travellers who are at a higher risk of illness. This includes anyone who was vaccinated under the age of two, pregnant women, and those living with HIV. Whilst some countries require proof of vaccination—which is thought to be a highly effective method of preventing the spread of infection—for some destinations, it is simply recommended. Health officials have urged travellers to contact their local vaccination center who should be able to advise whether vaccination is appropriate. Where vaccines are unavailable, health professionals are advised to contact the NaTHNac to discuss available options. The NHS says it is also vital to prevent mosquito bites—through using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing— as this can ward off the bugs carrying the infection, as well as other serious diseases. The most recent reported case of yellow fever in the UK was in 2018, after a traveller returned from Brazil. Prior to this only 11 cases were reported in travellers from Europe and the United States who visited high risk area between 1970 and 2015, according to official figures. However between 2016 and 2018 there was a sharp rise in travel associated cases of the infection—most likely linked to outbreaks in Brazil. While the virus cannot spread person to person, if you are infected, a mosquito can bite you and then infect someone else. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 777 cases of yellow fever were reported across eight Brazilian states during this time, tragically killing 261 people. An estimated 200,000 cases of yellow fever are reported worldwide each year, including 30,000 deaths. Whilst vaccination is thought to be the best method to prevent against infection—with more than 600million doses of the vaccine administered worldwide—the yellow fever vaccine can cause serious side-effects. After having the vaccine, up to a third of people experience headache, muscle pain and a high temperature. These side-effects usually pass within a couple of weeks but in very rare cases the vaccine can cause life-threatening organ damage. In 2019 one of the UK's leading cancer scientists
Times
14-05-2025
- Health
- Times
What travel vaccines do I need for my trip? Everything you need to know
Few of us think about vaccinations before travel, but it can be crucial for certain destinations where the risk of infectious diseases is high. But far from just keeping us healthy, vaccinations can also form part of a country's entry requirements, especially for diseases such as yellow fever and polio where proof of vaccination is often needed. Vaccine requirements change over time, too. In the case of malaria, for example, the affected areas can shift. And then there's the fact that vaccinations aren't always straightforward. Depending on the vaccine, you might be fine with just one dose or you might need multiple doses over months. Here's what you need to know. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Before any travel abroad, check your routine immunisations are up to date, because many are common travel vaccines — such as tetanus, diphtheria, poliomyelitis, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and hepatitis B. Childhood vaccinations received will differ between age groups, as well as other factors, and some require boosters over time. For example, diphtheria has a recommended ten-yearly booster if travelling in high-risk areas. Hepatitis B hasn't always been a routine immunisation, so you may want to ask your GP about your status. Infections like hepatitis B are spread through bodily fluids, so sensible precautions should be taken with sexual encounters, medical procedures, tattoos and piercings. While not usually part of the routine schedule, hepatitis A and typhoid are such common recommendations worldwide that they're often worth getting for travel. All the above, plus cholera, are usually free on the NHS, but hepatitis B is only available to certain groups (you can expect to pay about £150 privately for a three-dose course). Covid-19 and seasonal flu jabs are also recommended, especially for those normally considered in an at-risk group — or, in some instances, travelling to crowded places such as festivals and religious or sporting events. Many common travel illnesses don't have vaccines, like the all-too-familiar travellers' diarrhoea, which most commonly presents after consuming contaminated food or water. Altitude sickness should be taken into account when visiting any destination above 2,400m. Vaccination isn't suitable or possible for a number of mosquito-borne diseases — however, there can be exceptions, for example if you've had a previous infection of dengue. Always research possible health risks and take appropriate precautions, including all-important travel insurance. Make sure any medications you take can be legally brought into your destination — some restrictions may surprise you. Most European pathogens are covered by UK routine vaccinations. Hepatitis A jabs are often recommended — it's spread through faeces, so thrives around poor sanitation and contaminated water. Several European countries pose a risk of rabies and the vaccine is usually given in three doses over four weeks, although this can be shortened where time is an issue. It costs about £200 for the course — but even then, the vaccine won't fully protect you. If you've been bitten, scratched or, in some cases, licked by an infected animal (bear in mind, its symptoms might not be present), seek immediate medical attention to prevent the fatal disease. Tick-borne encephalitis is present in northern, central and eastern Europe. Consider getting the vaccine for outdoor pursuits such as hiking, camping, cycling or fishing, in at-risk countries. Three doses over 12 months — about £200 — offers full protection, but there's also an accelerated course, and boosters are encouraged. France, Spain and Italy have in recent years reported cases of dengue. This nasty mosquito-borne infection can be fatal and there's no vaccine (except in instances of previous infection). Cover up from dawn until dusk, and use insect repellents. • Cyprus travel advice: is it safe to visit right now?• Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest travel advice Vaccine recommendations vary greatly over huge continents like Asia. Beyond routine immunisations, typhoid and hepatitis A are the most common and both are free on the NHS. Typhoid is spread mainly through contaminated food and drink. Depending on trip duration and previous travel, some countries demand international certification of a recent polio booster; check requirements for Pakistan, India and Indonesia in particular. Though Asia doesn't have yellow fever, countries like India or Singapore may need to see vaccine proof if you're travelling from affected countries. A rabies vaccination is suggested for most destinations, including India, Indonesia, Thailand and China. Rabies risk is far higher in countries with lots of wild or stray animals — steer clear, however cute. The three-dose vaccine is expensive (about £200) but can save lives. Shots for tick-borne encephalitis (about £200) are suggested if undertaking outdoor activities in affected destinations. Certain at-risk travellers are advised to get vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis (about £200 for a two-dose course) and cholera (free on the NHS) — depending on factors such as personal health, type of activities and duration of stay. In some regions, mosquitoes carry malaria, dengue and zika (which can cause birth defects). While there is little in the way of vaccines here, for malaria you can take antimalarial tablets; there's a wide variety available, with differing doses, prices and side effects. Most require a prescription, although they can be requested easily from pharmacies online without seeing your GP. This is the safer, preferred option when buying antimalarial tablets online, which could either be fakes or not the correct type you need for your travels. In general, insect and water precautions are advised across most Asian destinations. Pilgrims heading to haj or umra will need, among other requirements, proof of a meningococcal meningitis vaccine (about £60) given within the past three years, and no less than ten days before arrival. • Dubai travel advice: is it safe to visit right now?• Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka? Everything you need to know Africa is a massive continent with myriad vaccine recommendations — routine immunisations, hepatitis A and typhoid are a given. If staying longer than four weeks in many countries, a polio booster with international certification is advised. Africa has many wild and stray animals, so consider the three rabies doses for afflicted countries (about £200). Dogs, cats, bats and monkeys are prime candidates for carrying the disease. Many of the UK's favourite African destinations — Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Tunisia, Mauritius — don't suggest vaccines beyond these. Yellow fever sets Africa apart. Present in popular destinations such as Kenya and Uganda, the virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and can turn deadly. Many countries will insist you carry your original vaccination certificate when travelling to, from or through affected countries (jabs cost about £70). Mosquitoes may also carry malaria, dengue and zika. Antimalarial tablets are advised in high-risk areas. Some African destinations, such as Nigeria, Uganda and Kenya, experience meningococcal meningitis epidemics. Jabs cost about £60. Spread person to person through droplets, some meningitis forms are covered under routine immunisations, but boosters are often advised. Cholera vaccination may be recommended to certain at-risk travellers. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for about 90 per cent of the world's schistosomiasis cases. It's caught when a parasite living in fresh water comes into contact with your skin, for example when swimming and bathing. So always be cautious with water and hygiene. • Morocco travel advice: is it safe to visit right now?• How to see gorillas in Rwanda: everything you need to know Routine immunisations, hepatitis A and typhoid are advised for South America. Like Africa, much of South America has yellow fever — so vaccination is a good idea (about £70). Be sure to carry proof with you, where needed, for entry and exit requirements. Mosquitoes may also spread malaria, zika and dengue, so cover up, wear repellent, and take antimalarial tablets in affected areas. Prolific wildlife and stray animals mean rabies vaccination is recommended for many South American countries (about £200). Even with three doses, you'll need urgent medical attention should risk of infection occur. Great swathes of South America are high altitude (above 2,400m), so beware of altitude sickness. • The otherworldly desert that's brilliant for stargazing• How to find the real 'Old World' Buenos Aires UK travellers to Canada and the US need only consider routine vaccinations, hepatitis A and altitude sickness. Rabies is rare, but you may want to consider the three-dose vaccine (about £200). Routine vaccines, hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended for Caribbean and Central American destinations. Dengue and zika are prevalent across both regions, so protect against mosquito bites. Malaria is often low to no risk, but is present in some countries — for example, Honduras, where antimalarial tablets are advised for high-risk areas. The NHS recommends travellers consider the rabies vaccine for some Central American and Caribbean destinations, such as Panama and Cuba; and cholera for those who might be at-risk on Hispaniola. Panama and Trinidad & Tobago have yellow fever, so get a vaccine plus a certificate if travelling on to countries that demand them (about £70). Some Central American destinations have areas of high altitude. • Cuba travel guide• I've found the most beautiful train ride in America Australia and New Zealand are recommended the usual vaccines, and hepatitis A for at-risk travellers. Australia also suggests Japanese encephalitis shots for at-risk visitors (about £200), which is usually spread by mosquitoes in rural areas. Some Australian regions have dengue fever, so take the necessary precautions. Many Pacific Island destinations add hepatitis A and typhoid to recommended routine vaccines. Only Kiribati has rabies, and you should consider the vaccine. Mosquito-borne dengue is found across many islands, while destinations such as Fiji, Samoa and Tonga have zika. Take insect precautions to lower your risk of infection. Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands have malaria, so antimalarial medications are advised. The latter two also have zika. It's recommended at-risk travellers get cholera and Japanese encephalitis vaccines for Papua New Guinea too. • Australia travel guide• New Zealand travel guide
