Updates
IMA Calls for Nationwide Strike After Kolkata Doctor’s Tragic Death
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a nationwide strike on Saturday in response to the brutal rape and murder of a doctor at Kolkata's R G Kar Medical College. The strike will affect all hospitals, both public and private, with emergency services remaining operational.
Biden Administration Negotiates Lower Drug Prices for Medicare
The Biden administration has announced significant savings for Medicare recipients on medications treating diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions, following successful price negotiations with drug companies. These price reductions, effective in 2026, will save about $1.5 billion in out-of-pocket costs for patients.
US FDA Targets New Sodium Reduction Goals in Packaged Foods
The US FDA proposes new guidelines to reduce sodium levels in packaged and processed foods by 20% over the next three years. This move aims to combat diet-related chronic diseases, targeting major food companies and fast-food chains.
IMA Declares Nationwide 24-Hour Strike to Protest Kolkata Medic Murder
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced a 24-hour nationwide withdrawal of non-emergency services on August 17, protesting the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. Essential services and casualty wards will remain operational during the strike.
AIIMS and Safdarjung Doctors Continue Strike Over Kolkata Medic Murder
Doctors at AIIMS, Safdarjung, and other hospitals in New Delhi are continuing their strike, protesting the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. While some associations have called off the strike, others remain steadfast, demanding stronger protections for healthcare workers.
Assam Hospital Withdraws Advisory for Women Doctors After Protests
Silchar Medical College in Assam cancels an advisory asking women doctors to avoid isolated areas at night, following protests from students demanding better security measures. The hospital administration promises to issue a revised advisory soon.
India Begins Phase 3 Trial for Indigenous Dengue Vaccine
ICMR and Panacea Biotec have started the Phase 3 clinical trial of DengiAll, India's first indigenous tetravalent dengue vaccine. The trial involves over 10,335 healthy adults across 19 sites in India, marking a critical step towards combating dengue in the country.
FORDA Calls Off Strike After Meeting with Health Minister Nadda
FORDA has called off its nationwide strike after a meeting with Union Health Minister JP Nadda, who assured the association that their demands for a safe working environment and justice for the victim of the Kolkata doctor rape-murder case would be met.
Mpox Vaccines Delayed in Congo Amid Escalating Outbreak
As the mpox outbreak worsens in Congo, vaccines may not arrive for months, despite the Africa CDC declaring a public health emergency. WHO is considering following suit, but challenges like limited vaccine supply and competing outbreaks hinder immediate action.
FAIMA Continues Nationwide OPD Shutdown Amid Protests for Justice
FAIMA has extended its nationwide shutdown of OPD services, demanding justice for the victim of the Kolkata hospital rape-murder. Resident doctors across India are striking for central protection for healthcare workers and have vowed to continue until their demands are met.
Experts Discuss Quality and Innovation in Diagnostics at India Diagnostics Summit 2024
Industry leaders at the India Diagnostics Summit 2024 discussed the challenges of maintaining quality in diagnostics amid rapid technological advancements, emphasizing the need for accreditation, training, and responsible adoption of new innovations to ensure patient safety.
Study Reveals Microplastics in All Indian Salt and Sugar Brands
A new study by Toxics Link reveals that all Indian salt and sugar brands contain microplastics, with the highest levels found in iodised salt. The study calls for urgent research into the health impacts of microplastics and potential technological interventions to reduce exposure.
