Updates

Scientists Warn of New Deadly Viruses in Animals from Fur Farms
A recent study uncovers dangerous viruses in fur farm animals such as minks, posing potential pandemic threats. Researchers call for global surveillance and stricter measures to prevent future outbreaks.

Swachh Bharat Mission's Impact on Reducing Infant Mortality
A study shows that Swachh Bharat Mission's toilet access has potentially saved 60,000-70,000 infant lives annually by improving sanitation across India, contributing to a significant decline in child mortality rates.

India Remains Free of Mpox Cases Since March 2024
India has not reported any new Mpox cases since March 2024, with the risk level assessed as low. However, public health measures remain in place to monitor potential cases.

Sandip Ghosh Faces Public Fury as CBI Probes Corruption Nexus
Former RG Kar Medical College principal Sandip Ghosh was remanded to CBI custody for eight days on charges of corruption. Public protests erupted as accusations of his involvement in a larger financial nexus surfaced during the investigation.

IHH Healthcare to Acquire Island Hospital in $901 Million Deal
IHH Healthcare will acquire Malaysia's Island Hospital for $901 million, solidifying its position in Penang and Malaysia’s healthcare sector. The deal is expected to generate over $200 million in synergies and expand medical tourism.

India Conducts First Pandemic Preparedness Mock Drill
India’s first mock drill, Vishanu Yuddh Abhyas, was conducted in Rajasthan to evaluate the nation’s pandemic preparedness, simulating a zoonotic disease outbreak and assessing the readiness of multiple health sectors.

States to Report Healthcare Security Measures by September 10
India's Health Secretary has instructed states and Union territories to submit action reports on security measures for healthcare professionals. This follows the Supreme Court's directive to ensure safety in healthcare institutions, emphasizing audits, CCTV, local police integration, and more.

Ignoring Virus Threats Could Lead to Disaster
Despite the rush to forget the pandemic, ignoring virus threats like Covid-19, Chandipura, and Mpox could have dire consequences for India. Experts urge stronger surveillance and pandemic preparedness to combat these ever-evolving dangers.

Urban Girls Face High Levels of Inactivity, Survey Reveals
A national survey shows over 20 crore Indians are inactive, with urban girls facing the worst impact due to limited access to physical activity and safety concerns. The survey highlights the importance of integrating physical activity into daily life to combat health risks.

GST Council's Potential Removal of 18% Tax on Term Life Insurance Premiums
The upcoming GST Council meeting might consider removing the 18% tax on term life insurance premiums, a long-standing demand from the industry. Experts say this could ease financial burdens on policyholders, particularly for term insurance plans focused on providing security rather than income.

Former Principal of RG Kar Medical College Remanded to Custody in Corruption Case
A Kolkata court has remanded Sandip Ghosh, former principal of RG Kar Medical College, to an eight-day custody. The CBI detained him on allegations of financial misconduct. The court emphasized the need for further investigation to uncover the full extent of the case.

UNFPA Calls on Private Sector to Invest in Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health
The UNFPA calls on Asia-Pacific businesses to invest in women's sexual and reproductive health, especially in labor-intensive industries like garment manufacturing, where better health outcomes lead to economic gains.
