#uganda news ebola

[reasonsforhope]

Cancer

“Starting at home, a study last year found that US cancer deaths had declined by 33% since 1991. This is equivalent to around 3.8 million people alive thanks to various efforts to combat the disease family.

The report was authored by the American Cancer Society, and published in the journal CA. American Cancer Society CEO Karen Knudsen called the drop “truly formidable,” while the report attributed the fall to the development of better treatments, the reduction in smoking habits, and earlier detection methods.

Just between 2019 and 2020, cancer death rates dropped 1.5%, while the deployment of the HPV vaccine was correlated with a 65% drop in cervical cancer rates from 2012 through 2019 among women in their 30s.

The report also found that not only are death rates falling, but 5-year survival rates for detected cancers have increased 68% among all diagnoses made between 2012 and 2018.

Guinea Worm Disease

Cancer research often involves cutting edge medical research, but across West Africa and India where cutting edge medicine is not widely available, human determination has succeeded in nearly eradicating Guinea Worm disease.

There are records of this truly unpleasant parasite affecting human health going back thousands of years, and in 1989, there were nearly 1 million cases globally.

But in 2022, this unwelcome waterborne guest created just 15 cases worldwide—a decline of 99.998%, and almost all 15 of those cases occurred in Chad.

This monumental turnaround was not the result of some experimental vaccine, but simple education, teaching people how to avoid drinking contaminated water, when and where this mostly seasonal parasite is likely to be found, and how to treat water to purify it of the Guinea worm.

Ebola

Other than Chad, Guinea Worm disease was also found in Uganda, which produced another medical milestone with the successful eradication of a recent Ebola outbreak.

The outbreak began in September, driven on by the incurable Sudan strain of the virus. It was the worst outbreak in 20 years, but even though there is no vaccine for the Sudan strain, the health authorities managed to contain it to just two administrative districts, and 142 confirmed cases.

“The magic bullet has been our communities who understood the importance of doing what was needed to end the outbreak, and took action,” said health minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero last Wednesday.

Vaccine trials involving Oxford University are currently underway for the Sudan strain, but until that time, health authorities received congratulations for their swift actions, and were thanked for the “lessons learned.””

-via Good News Network, 1/19/23

[afeelgoodblog]

1. Girl with incurable cancer recovers after pioneering treatment

A girl’s incurable cancer has been cleared from her body after what scientists have described as the most sophisticated cell engineering to date. Alyssa, whose family do not wish to give their surname, was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in May 2021.

Scientists at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London gave her pre-manufactured cells edited using new technology to allow them to hunt down and destroy cancerous T-cells without attacking each other. Less than a month after being given the treatment, she was in remission, and was able to have a second bone marrow transplant.

Can I get a fuck cancer?

2. The UK has made gigabit internet a legal requirement for new homes

Updated regulations require new properties to be built with gigabit broadband connections and make it easier to install into existing blocks of flats across the UK. Connection costs will be capped at £2,000 per home, and developers must still install gigabit-ready infrastructure (including ducts, chambers, and termination points) and the fastest-available connection if they’re unable to secure a gigabit connection within the cost cap

3. US cancer death rate falls 33% since 1991

The rate of people dying from cancer in the United States has continuously declined over the past three decades, according to a new report from the American Cancer Society.

The US cancer death rate has fallen 33% since 1991, which corresponds to an estimated 3.8 million deaths averted, according to the report, published Thursday in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. Partly due to advances in treatment, early detection and less smoking, report says

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4. Lab-grown retinal eye cells make successful connections, open door for clinical trials to treat blindness

Retinal cells grown from stem cells can reach out and connect with neighbors, according to a new study, completing a “handshake” that may show the cells are ready for trials in humans with degenerative eye disorders.

Over a decade ago, researchers from the University of Wisconsin–Madison developed a way to grow organized clusters of cells, called organoids, that resemble the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. They coaxed human skin cells reprogrammed to act as stem cells to develop into layers of several types of retinal cells that sense light and ultimately transmit what we see to the brain.

5. The ozone layer is on track to recover in the next 40 years, the United Nations says

The Earth's ozone layer is on its way to recovering, thanks to decades of work to get rid of ozone-damaging chemicals, a panel of international experts backed by the United Nations has found.

The ozone layer serves an important function for living things on Earth. This shield in the stratosphere protects humans and the environment from harmful levels of the sun's ultraviolet radiation. In the latest report on the progress of the Montreal Protocol, the U.N.-backed panel confirmed that nearly 99% of banned ozone-depleting substances have been phased out.

6. Uganda declares an end to Ebola outbreak

The Ugandan government has declared an end to its Ebola outbreak, less than four months after cases were first reported. Since 20 September, 56 people have died from the virus, which is spread through body fluids, and there have been 142 confirmed infections.

The country has reported no new infections in more than 42 days – twice the maximum incubation period of the virus, a World Health Organization benchmark for a country to be declared Ebola-free.

7. Doggy ‘daycare’ bus in Alaska goes viral on TikTok

Check them out here:

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[gossip-with-yourbestie]

WHO Declares Mpox a Global Health Emergency

In response to the alarming rise in mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its spread to neighboring countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency. This is the highest alert level under international health regulations.

On Wednesday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the decision after a special meeting of experts. “The emergency committee has advised that the current situation constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), and I have accepted this advice,” Tedros stated at a press conference.

The PHEIC designation is a serious move, signaling the need for a coordinated global response to tackle the outbreak and prevent further loss of life. Tedros expressed concern over the emergence of a new mpox strain in eastern DRC and its detection in neighboring countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

The situation is dire. This year alone, over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths have been reported in the DRC, surpassing last year’s totals. The new pox strain, clade 1b, which seems to spread primarily through sexual contact, is particularly troubling.

Dimie Ogoina, who led the emergency committee, described the upsurge as “an extraordinary event,” warning that without stronger surveillance, the full scale of the crisis remains unclear. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s head of emerging diseases, stressed that halting pox transmission is possible with concerted effort but emphasized the need for a better understanding of the disease’s spread.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first identified in the DRC in 1970. It is a viral infection that spreads from animals to humans and can also be transmitted between people through close contact. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and distinctive skin sores.

This is the second PHEIC declaration for pox, following the global outbreak in 2022 linked to the clade 2b strain, which primarily affected men who have sex with men. That outbreak, which lasted from July 2022 to May 2023, saw nearly 140 deaths from around 90,000 cases. The current clade 1b strain is more severe, with a higher fatality rate.

PHEICs have only been declared a few times since 2009, for issues like H1N1, polio, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. Marion Koopmans from Erasmus University highlighted that while a PHEIC raises international alarm, the core needs—improving diagnostic capabilities, public health responses, treatment support, and vaccination—remain the same. The DRC and its neighbors face significant resource challenges in addressing this outbreak.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is ramping up preparedness efforts across Africa, particularly in the hard-hit eastern DRC, to help contain the disease in the most affected areas.

[centers-for-disease-control]

hey CDC found any new diseases lately

I mean, there is a new Ebola in Uganda

[amor-est-potestas]

Good Stuff in 2023

Since every year seems to be shit, I thought I would go through some major news stories and pick out the ones that seemed pretty good, actually. There's a bit of a USA bias in the source I used... but here's some year-end positivity, anyway!

January

An ebola outbreak was successfully controlled in Uganda

Sierra Leone introduced a law that reserves more jobs for women

The UN declared the current approach to repairing the ozone layer is successful and could return it to 1980 levels

New York's gun restrictions were upheld by the Supreme Court

February

Google lost $100bn in shares because its chatbot was crap (lol)

Tesla had to recall over 350,000 cars because its self-driving system was crap (lmao)

March

The International Criminal Court put out a warrant for the arrest of Vladimir Putin

12 Democrat-led states in the USA sued to attempt to protect access to mifepristone (an abortion inducing drug)

Donald Trump was charged with criminal offences in New York

The Royal Society tested robotic prosthetics with the public and found that over 95% of people could use them well within the first minute

April

Finland was approved to join NATO

Christina Koch was announced as the first woman and Victor Glover as the first black astronaut on a NASA lunar mission

The tiger population of India was confirmed to have risen by around 200

A SpaceX rocket blew up (haha)

Japan approved an abortion pill for use for the first time

Pope Francis announced that women would be allowed to vote in meetings of bishops

The US Supreme Court rejected a West Virginia transgender athlete ban

Washington state eliminated the death penalty and sterilisation as criminal punishment

The US Supreme Court protected access to mifepristone (see March)

The UK fined TikTok for mishandling children's data

NASA was able to extract oxygen from lunar soil

Germany confirmed the shut down of nuclear power stations in the interest of safety

May

Colorado state signed several gun control bills into law

Donald Trump was found liable in a civil case where he was accused of rape and defamation

North Carolina's governor vetoed an abortion ban

The UK's first "three-parent baby" was born via IVF

June

Former Brazil president (Collor) was sentenced to prison for corruption

Federal courts blocked laws preventing healthcare for young trans people in Kentucky and Tennessee

July

Donald Trump's request for a new trial (see May) was rejected

Sweden's bid to join NATO was backed by Turkey

August

FDA approved use of the first drug (Zuranolone) to treat postpartum depression

Direct detection and nanopore sequencing (DDNS) used to halve the time for polio detection

India's space agency achieved their first unmanned moon landing

September

Mexico's Supreme Court decriminalised abortion rights

The African Union permanently joined the G20

The EU raised their renewable energy targets

Donald Trump was found guilty of fraud in New York

Apple announced a switch to USB-C charging ports in its new iPhone

October

California banned driverless taxis

November

A court in South Africa ruled in favour of introducing shared parental leave

The UK Supreme Court blocked plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda

An assault weapons ban in Illinois was upheld by an appeals court

The first images were received from ESA's Euclid space telescope

The EU started talks to bring Ukraine into the union

December

41 workers were rescued from a tunnel under the Himalayas in India

Pope Francis allowed priests to bless same-sex couples (but not for marriage... but still a win maybe?)

Supreme Court dismissed Ohio's attempt to enforce an abortion ban

Colorado's Supreme Court declared Donald Trump ineligible to run for office (only applies to Colorado)

IBM unveiled a quantum computing chip and machine

Google, Meta and other tech companies agreed to work towards open digital ecosystems (prompted by EU regulations on digital markets)

[quotesfrommyreading]

West Nile virus is a flavirus of migratory birds named after the district in Uganda where it was first isolated in 1937. Migratory birds have probably been introducing the virus into the United States for decades, especially into New York City, which lies on the Atlantic flyway, one of the four primary migratory routes in North America. The virus can spill over from birds' bodies into ours when mosquitoes bite infected birds and then bite people.

But despite the repeated introduction of the virus and the enduring phenomemon of mosquito biting, West Nile virus did not break out in the United States until 1999, more than fifty years after it was identified.

That's because the diversity of the local bird population limited our exposure to it. Different bird species vary in their vulnerability to the virus. Robins and crows are especially susceptible. Woodpeckers and rails are not. Their feathery bodies act like a barrier. So long as the local bird population was diverse, including plenty of virus-repelling woodpeckers and rails, there wasn't much virus around. The chances that the virus would spill over from birds into humans were slim.

But avian biodiversity, like the biodiversity of other species, has plummeted, in the United States as elsewhere. Urban sprawl, industrial agriculture, and climate change, among other disruptions caused by human activity, steadily destroy bird habitats, reducing the number of species among us. But habitat destruction doesn't affect all species equally. Some species – the so-called specialist species – get hit especially hard. They're the ones, like monarch butterflies, salamanders, and woodpeckers and rails, that rely on exacting conditions and can't easily survive when these conditions change. When trees are felled and nesting grounds paved over, they're the ones that tend to disappear first. That means there's more food and territory around for the “generalist” species like robins and crows – the opportunistic, sharp-elbowed types that can live anywhere and eat anything. Their numbers skyrocket in the vacuum.

As avian diversity declined in the United Sates, specialist species like woodpeckers and rails disappeared, while generalist species like American robins and crows boomed. (Populations of American robins have grown by 50 or 100 percent over the past twenty-five years.) This reordering of the composition of the local bird population steadily increased the chances that the virus would reach a high enough concentration to spill over into humans. At some point, a threshold was crossed. In the summer of 1999, West Nile infected over 2 percent of the population of Queens, more than eight thousand people, in New York City. Once it took hold, it spread inexorably. Within five years, the virus had emerged in all forty-eight contiguous states. By 2010, an estimated 1.8 million people in North America had been infected from New York to Texas and California. Experts agree that West Nile is here to stay.

  —  Pandemic: Tracking Contagions, from Cholera to Ebola and Beyond (Sonia Shah)

[industrynewsupdates]

A Comprehensive Guide to Medical Coveralls Procurement Intelligence

The global medical coveralls category is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2023 to 2030. The most important PPE in the world was the hooded disposable coveralls in 2020 - 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in demand for disposable protective coveralls/apparel because of heightened awareness of self-protection. On a parent level, the PPE category is experiencing tremendous growth due to its industry-agnostic nature and varied applications. The growth of the category is being driven by emerging diseases, such as the September 2022 Ebola outbreak in Uganda and the SARS, new Omicron, and flu variants worldwide. This has increased the need for protection for frontline healthcare workers. All such factors are boosting the demand for medical coveralls globally.

Disposable protective coveralls can be categorized into various levels based on their strength of protection such as - Categories I (minimal risk), II (medium risk), and III (complex PPE). According to EU standards, the medical coveralls can be classified into different types - Type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. The compliance requirements for types 1 to 4 include EN 14605 and EN 13982-1 for types 5 and 6. With advancements in technology, compliance requirements also play a key role. Over the years, medical coveralls have evolved from being basic garments into technologically advanced protective gear. As a result of technological advancements, coverall fabrics have also been designed to contain antimicrobial properties. Nanotechnology enabled the creation of nanoparticles embedded in coverall fibers for added protection. The latest medical coverall technology involves ‘smart’ coveralls with built-in sensors to monitor vital signs and alert healthcare professionals of any anomalies.

The medical coveralls category is highly fragmented. The top fifteen to twenty players account for a nominal share of the market. The major players in this category include raw-material suppliers, PPE divisions of major conglomerates, pure-play PPE/medical coveralls manufacturers, and wholesale and retail distributors. Within each segment again, the dynamics vary, which further reduces the bargaining power of suppliers. Manufacturers of coveralls are constantly trying to innovate by employing different types of materials. One instance is the use of SMS fabrics. These fabrics can withstand liquid while being available at competitive prices.

Order your copy of the Medical Coveralls Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030, published by Grand View Research, to get more details regarding day one, quick wins, portfolio analysis, key negotiation strategies of key suppliers, and low-cost/best-cost sourcing analysis

The major cost components in the medical coveralls category include raw materials, equipment and machinery, labor, facilities and storage, packaging, freight and transportation, and others. Other costs can include testing and inspection, marketing, insurance, tax, overhead expenses, administrative expenses, etc. Medical coveralls are critical for healthcare workers to prevent and control infection. They are designed to provide out-and-out protection from any kind of exposure.  Hence the selection of the fabric or the raw material must be considered carefully. Synthetic fibers such as nylon 6,6, polyester (PET), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE) are some of the key fabrics considered to manufacture medical or PPE coveralls.

The majority of disposable coveralls are made of synthetic non-woven fabric, which is a single-use material. However, to improve the longevity and range of applications, woven cloth has witnessed some advancements in recent times. Raw materials form the largest cost component in this category. Factors such as the thickness and weight of the fabric, production or order quantity, single-layer or multi-layer structures, and the type of material chosen can further influence the total cost.

Polypropylene is also another cost-effective material that is widely used. In Q3 2023, PP prices in the North American region fluctuated a lot. The start of the third quarter witnessed a 1 - 2% drop in prices owing to a reduction in feedstock PP prices amid inflationary pressure. The continuous inflation forced consumers to reduce their consumption. As a result, demand remained low amid ample supply, which supported the decline. However, at the end of Q3 PP prices increased by 3 - 4% owing to a 5 - 6% rebound increase in feedstock PP prices and a positive demand from the automotive industry. In October 2023, PP prices in the EU region reached EUR 1,393 per MT. This was a 6% increase from September 2023.

In terms of sourcing intelligence, India, China, Malaysia, and Thailand are the most preferred countries to source medical coveralls. In 2022, China was the largest manufacturer of non-woven fabrics. The majority of medical coveralls use nonwoven fabrics. However, production in India has also ramped up steadily since the pandemic. The PPE industry in India has thrived due to low production costs, easy access to raw materials, and zero border restrictions for trade. India’s regulatory framework has significantly improved since 2021 in the PPE industry. It is common for most large end-user organizations to outsource the production of their medical coveralls.

When procuring medical coveralls, it is important to evaluate the suppliers based on product durability, quality, certifications, and protection parameters. Another key sourcing strategy is to ensure that the production process adheres to regulatory requirements and good manufacturing practices (GMP). For instance, the WHO states that the coveralls (or gowns) must meet AAMI-PB70 requirements. Other important regulatory bodies include the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Association of the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI). In the case of the raw material or fabrics used, the different standards include ISO 16604, EN 14126 Annex A, ISO 22611, ISO 22612, EN 16604 or ASTM D1238 for testing purposes, AAMI 4 level compliant coverall, etc.

Browse through Grand View Research’s collection of procurement intelligence studies:

• Medical Waste Disposal Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

• Medical Writing Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

Medical Coveralls Procurement Intelligence Report Scope

• Medical Coveralls Category Growth Rate: CAGR of 7.4% from 2023 to 2030

• Pricing Growth Outlook: 8% - 9% (Annually)

• Pricing Models: Volume-based and contract-based pricing model

• Supplier Selection Scope: Cost and pricing, past engagements, productivity, geographical presence

• Supplier Selection Criteria: Production capacity, type of material (PP, PET, PE), material thickness, sterility, compliance and safety measures, certifications, testing, operational and functional capabilities, technology used, and others

• Report Coverage: Revenue forecast, supplier ranking, supplier positioning matrix, emerging technology, pricing models, cost structure, competitive landscape, growth factors, trends, engagement, and operating model

Key Companies 

• 3M

• Ansell

• Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.

• Cardinal Health

• O&M Halyard, Inc.

• Lakeland, Inc.

• Derekduck Industries Corp.

• Plasti Surge Industries

• Winner Medical Co., Ltd.

• DuPont de Nemours Inc.

Brief about Pipeline by Grand View Research:

A smart and effective supply chain is essential for growth in any organization. Pipeline division at Grand View Research provides detailed insights on every aspect of supply chain, which helps in efficient procurement decisions.

Our services include (not limited to):

• Market Intelligence involving – market size and forecast, growth factors, and driving trends

• Price and Cost Intelligence – pricing models adopted for the category, total cost of ownerships

• Supplier Intelligence – rich insight on supplier landscape, and identifies suppliers who are dominating, emerging, lounging, and specializing

• Sourcing / Procurement Intelligence – best practices followed in the industry, identifying standard KPIs and SLAs, peer analysis, negotiation strategies to be utilized with the suppliers, and best suited countries for sourcing to minimize supply chain disruptions

[covenawhite66]

Bat guano contains betacoronavirus related to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that caused the COVID-19. pandemic.

African forest eating bat guano a key food source when palm trees in the region began disappearing. The local palm trees were being harvested to dry tobacco.

Preventing cross species virus exchange has not been utilized in comparison to limiting virus spread and vaccination.

Animals of different species transmitting the same viruses normally happen before the transmission of viruses from animals to humans. Like Ebola for example.

So, the study measured the amount of animals willing to eat bat guano after minerals containing trees disappeared.

[broadlyepi]

MMWR Booster #31:  Notes from the Field: Outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease Caused by Sudan ebolavirus — Uganda, August–October 2022

Top 5 Takeaways

Outbreak of Sudan ebolavirus in Uganda: From September 18 to October 31, 2022, Uganda experienced its fifth outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) caused by Sudan ebolavirus, with 130 confirmed and 18 probable cases.

Initial Case and Response: The outbreak began with a 26-year-old male (patient A) with no known Ebola exposure, leading to an emergency response including case finding, contact monitoring, and establishment of Ebola Treatment Units (ETUs).

Case Statistics: Among the cases, the median patient age was 29 years, with a higher incidence in men (59%). The outbreak resulted in 61 deaths (43 confirmed cases), with a median age of 28 years among the deceased.

Healthcare Worker Infection: Eighteen healthcare workers were infected, some linked to a surgical procedure performed on a probable EVD patient.

Continued Transmission and Prevention Measures: The ongoing public health response includes epidemiologic investigation, caution against direct contact with infected persons or animals, and adherence to proper infection control practices, particularly for healthcare workers.

Full summary link: BroadlyEpi.com

Enjoying these summaries? Check back every day at 8am and 4pm Pacific Time (UTC - 8) for a new MMWR Booster. A reblog would also be greatly appreciated, and thanks to everyone who already has! BroadlyEpi hopes to make Epidemiology and Public Health more approachable to anyone who's interested.

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade BREAKING: Nigeria l9ses out as Morocco wins right to host AFCON 2025 The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be hosted by the East African Nation, Morocco. This was announced by the Executive Committee board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday, September 27, in Cairo, Egypt. The committee also announced that the 2027 AFCON edition will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Morocco last hosted the AFCON in 1988 and was chosen in 2015 but asked for the tournament to be postponed because of the Ebola virus, although CAF later decided to strip the North African nation of the hosting rights. CAF President Patrice Motsepe celebrated the news saying that the “future of African football has never been brighter.” He also suggested that an African nation will win the World Cup in the near future.

[thxnews]

UK Government Funding Transforms Global Health

  UN's Sustainable Development Goals in Focus

UK Pledges Support for Resilient and Inclusive Health Systems In a significant move to address future pandemics, advance vaccine research, and reduce infectious disease fatalities, the UK government has unveiled a comprehensive funding package. The announcement, made by International Development Minister Andrew Mitchell and Health Minister Will Quince during a series of health meetings at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, underscores the UK's commitment to achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.  

Pioneering Research and Development Initiatives

Tackling Infectious Diseases and Saving Lives The funding, totaling up to £103.5 million, will primarily support the development of affordable vaccines and health products. These groundbreaking initiatives aim to curtail the spread of infectious diseases and enhance women's sexual and reproductive health, ultimately reducing preventable deaths worldwide. The UK Vaccine Network and various health research programs will benefit from this funding, ushering in a new era of health security.  

Empowering Healthcare in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Investing in Cutting-Edge Technology The UK will allocate an additional £295 million to research and development efforts, with a focus on innovative technologies for responding swiftly to disease outbreaks. This investment aims to improve healthcare for mothers, newborns, and children in low- and middle-income nations. It will also facilitate the development of novel drug administration methods to ensure life-saving care reaches even the most remote areas.  

Strengthening Partnerships in Africa

Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa To bolster global health security further, the UK has earmarked £95 million for the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme II. This program collaborates with several African nations, including Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, alongside organizations like the World Health Organization and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Its mission is to detect and combat future epidemics, and drug-resistant infections, and address climate change challenges in Africa.  

Government Officials Express Commitment

UK's Transformational Contribution to Global Health Minister for International Development Andrew Mitchell emphasized the UK's dedication to revitalizing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. He described the funding as "truly transformational" in creating more resilient and inclusive health systems worldwide. Health Minister Will Quince also underscored the life-saving impact of global health research. He also underscored the importance of vaccines, drugs, and diagnostics in preventing outbreaks, limiting their spread, and protecting populations both at home and abroad.  

Paving the Way for Pandemic Preparedness

Accelerating Vaccine and Treatment Availability The third UN Sustainable Development Goal aims to "ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages." The UK's newly announced research and development funding is set to help partners prepare for, prevent, and rapidly respond to disease outbreaks with pandemic potential, including threats such as Ebola. The investment in vaccines, drugs, and diagnostics, along with strategic partnerships, will expedite the availability of vaccines and treatments during future pandemics.  

A Commitment to Fighting Tuberculosis

Additional Funding for TB Alliance As part of its steadfast commitment to global health, the UK is set to provide an additional £5 million in funding to the TB Alliance for the year 2023/24. This significant contribution actively supports the research and testing of new or enhanced tuberculosis treatments, particularly those designed to combat multi-drug-resistant TB. It is expected to reduce the time required to cure TB and build upon the UK's cumulative funding of nearly £70 million since 2017.  

A Legacy of Health Security Investment

The UK's Ongoing Efforts This week's UK government health announcements build upon the nation's extensive track record of investing in health security through international development. Since 2017, UK-supported initiatives have brought more than 30 new products to market, distributed over 1 billion courses of malaria treatments, potentially saving 13 million lives, and developed critical diagnostics for diseases like drug-resistant tuberculosis. The UK's comprehensive health package includes: - Up to £295 million for health research and development partnerships, promoting open and collaborative science. - £5 million of additional funding for the TB Alliance for 2023/24. - Up to £103.5 million for the UK Vaccine Network Project, supporting critical research into combating infectious diseases in developing countries. - £95 million for the Tackling Deadly Diseases in Africa Programme II, strengthening Africa's ability to combat future epidemics, drug-resistant infections, and climate change challenges. The UK's unwavering commitment to global health security is firmly positioned to create a lasting and profound impact, effectively aligning with the global community's visionary goal of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and collaboratively working towards creating a better world by 2030.   Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Department of Health and Social Care, Will Quince MP, & The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP. Read the full article

[drcpanda12]

Factors for Next Pandemic It is certainly possible that there could be another epidemic or pandemic in the future, similar to COVID-19. Infectious diseases have been a constant threat throughout human history, and with the increasing globalization and interconnectedness of our world, the potential for the rapid spread of disease is higher than ever. There are several factors that can contribute to the emergence of new diseases, including: Zoonotic diseases: These are diseases that jump from animals to humans, and can occur when humans come into contact with infected animals or their products (such as meat or milk). Examples of zoonotic diseases include Ebola, SARS, and COVID-19. Environmental factors: Changes to the environment, such as deforestation or climate change, can alter the habitat of animals and insects, leading to new disease vectors or increased contact with humans. Human behavior: Human activities such as travel, trade, and urbanization can facilitate the spread of diseases across large distances and among large populations. Given these factors, it is likely that we will continue to see new infectious diseases emerge in the future. However, with advances in science and technology, as well as improvements in public health infrastructure and preparedness, we may be better equipped to prevent and respond to these outbreaks in the future. Potential Viruses for Future Pandemics There are many viruses that have the potential to cause epidemics or pandemics similar to COVID-19. Some of the most concerning viruses include: Influenza viruses: These viruses cause seasonal flu outbreaks every year and can occasionally lead to more severe pandemics, such as the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic that killed millions of people. Ebola virus: Ebola outbreaks have occurred in several African countries over the past few decades, with the largest outbreak occurring in West Africa in 2014-2016, resulting in more than 11,000 deaths. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus: MERS is a viral respiratory illness that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. It is spread from camels to humans and has a high mortality rate. Zika virus: Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause birth defects in babies born to infected mothers. It first emerged in Brazil in 2015 and has since spread to other parts of the world. Nipah virus: Nipah is a bat-borne virus that can cause severe respiratory illness or encephalitis. It has caused outbreaks in several countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Bangladesh. These are just a few examples of viruses that have the potential to cause epidemics or pandemics. It is important to monitor and prepare for emerging infectious diseases to minimize their impact on human health. Zika Virus - Agent of Pandemic Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that was first discovered in the Zika Forest of Uganda in 1947. For many years, Zika virus outbreaks were rare and limited to Africa and Asia. However, in 2015, an outbreak began in Brazil and quickly spread to other countries in Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. The symptoms of Zika virus infection are usually mild and include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Most people who are infected with Zika virus do not develop symptoms and those who do usually recover within a week without any specific treatment. However, there is a risk of complications, particularly for pregnant women. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can lead to birth defects, including microcephaly (a condition in which a baby's head is smaller than expected) and other neurological disorders. Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, but it can also be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection, and there is currently no vaccine available to prevent it.

Prevention measures include using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding travel to areas with known Zika virus outbreaks, particularly if pregnant or trying to conceive. Pregnant women who have been to areas with Zika virus transmission should be closely monitored for symptoms and potential complications. Although Zika virus outbreaks have decreased in recent years, it remains a concern in many parts of the world, particularly in areas where the Aedes mosquito is common. It is important to continue monitoring and studying the virus to better understand how it spreads and how to prevent and treat it. Ebola Virus - A Fatal Agent Ebola virus is a highly infectious and often fatal virus that belongs to the family Filoviridae. The virus was first identified in 1976 during two simultaneous outbreaks, one in Sudan and the other in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, there have been sporadic outbreaks in Africa, with the largest outbreak occurring in West Africa from 2013-2016. The Ebola virus is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of infected animals or humans, including blood, urine, feces, saliva, sweat, breast milk, and semen. The symptoms of Ebola virus include fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, internal and external bleeding. There is no specific treatment for Ebola virus, but supportive care can help patients recover. Prevention and control measures include practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals, wearing protective gear, and isolating infected patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers Ebola virus to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), and various international organizations, including the WHO, have worked to control outbreaks and prevent their spread. Nipah Virus - Highly Contagious Nipah virus is a highly contagious virus that belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus. It was first identified during an outbreak of encephalitis and respiratory illness in Malaysia in 1998. The virus is named after the village in Malaysia where the outbreak occurred. Nipah virus can cause severe disease in both animals and humans. The natural host of the virus is fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, which can spread the virus to other animals such as pigs, and from pigs to humans. Human-to-human transmission can also occur. Symptoms of Nipah virus infection in humans can range from fever, headache, and muscle pain to acute respiratory infection, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and seizures. The mortality rate of Nipah virus infection ranges from 40% to 75%. There is no specific treatment for Nipah virus infection, and there is no vaccine available for humans. Prevention measures include avoiding exposure to sick animals, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding consumption of raw date palm sap, which has been implicated in the spread of the virus. Nipah virus outbreaks have been reported in several countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, and India. The virus is considered a potential pandemic threat by the World Health Organization (WHO).

[knewtoday]

Factors for Next Pandemic It is certainly possible that there could be another epidemic or pandemic in the future, similar to COVID-19. Infectious diseases have been a constant threat throughout human history, and with the increasing globalization and interconnectedness of our world, the potential for the rapid spread of disease is higher than ever. There are several factors that can contribute to the emergence of new diseases, including: Zoonotic diseases: These are diseases that jump from animals to humans, and can occur when humans come into contact with infected animals or their products (such as meat or milk). Examples of zoonotic diseases include Ebola, SARS, and COVID-19. Environmental factors: Changes to the environment, such as deforestation or climate change, can alter the habitat of animals and insects, leading to new disease vectors or increased contact with humans. Human behavior: Human activities such as travel, trade, and urbanization can facilitate the spread of diseases across large distances and among large populations. Given these factors, it is likely that we will continue to see new infectious diseases emerge in the future. However, with advances in science and technology, as well as improvements in public health infrastructure and preparedness, we may be better equipped to prevent and respond to these outbreaks in the future. Potential Viruses for Future Pandemics There are many viruses that have the potential to cause epidemics or pandemics similar to COVID-19. Some of the most concerning viruses include: Influenza viruses: These viruses cause seasonal flu outbreaks every year and can occasionally lead to more severe pandemics, such as the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic that killed millions of people. Ebola virus: Ebola outbreaks have occurred in several African countries over the past few decades, with the largest outbreak occurring in West Africa in 2014-2016, resulting in more than 11,000 deaths. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus: MERS is a viral respiratory illness that was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. It is spread from camels to humans and has a high mortality rate. Zika virus: Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause birth defects in babies born to infected mothers. It first emerged in Brazil in 2015 and has since spread to other parts of the world. Nipah virus: Nipah is a bat-borne virus that can cause severe respiratory illness or encephalitis. It has caused outbreaks in several countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Bangladesh. These are just a few examples of viruses that have the potential to cause epidemics or pandemics. It is important to monitor and prepare for emerging infectious diseases to minimize their impact on human health. Zika Virus - Agent of Pandemic Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus that was first discovered in the Zika Forest of Uganda in 1947. For many years, Zika virus outbreaks were rare and limited to Africa and Asia. However, in 2015, an outbreak began in Brazil and quickly spread to other countries in Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. The symptoms of Zika virus infection are usually mild and include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). Most people who are infected with Zika virus do not develop symptoms and those who do usually recover within a week without any specific treatment. However, there is a risk of complications, particularly for pregnant women. Zika virus infection during pregnancy can lead to birth defects, including microcephaly (a condition in which a baby's head is smaller than expected) and other neurological disorders. Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, but it can also be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. There is no specific treatment for Zika virus infection, and there is currently no vaccine available to prevent it.

Prevention measures include using mosquito repellent, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding travel to areas with known Zika virus outbreaks, particularly if pregnant or trying to conceive. Pregnant women who have been to areas with Zika virus transmission should be closely monitored for symptoms and potential complications. Although Zika virus outbreaks have decreased in recent years, it remains a concern in many parts of the world, particularly in areas where the Aedes mosquito is common. It is important to continue monitoring and studying the virus to better understand how it spreads and how to prevent and treat it. Ebola Virus - A Fatal Agent Ebola virus is a highly infectious and often fatal virus that belongs to the family Filoviridae. The virus was first identified in 1976 during two simultaneous outbreaks, one in Sudan and the other in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, there have been sporadic outbreaks in Africa, with the largest outbreak occurring in West Africa from 2013-2016. The Ebola virus is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of infected animals or humans, including blood, urine, feces, saliva, sweat, breast milk, and semen. The symptoms of Ebola virus include fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, internal and external bleeding. There is no specific treatment for Ebola virus, but supportive care can help patients recover. Prevention and control measures include practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals, wearing protective gear, and isolating infected patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers Ebola virus to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), and various international organizations, including the WHO, have worked to control outbreaks and prevent their spread. Nipah Virus - Highly Contagious Nipah virus is a highly contagious virus that belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus. It was first identified during an outbreak of encephalitis and respiratory illness in Malaysia in 1998. The virus is named after the village in Malaysia where the outbreak occurred. Nipah virus can cause severe disease in both animals and humans. The natural host of the virus is fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, which can spread the virus to other animals such as pigs, and from pigs to humans. Human-to-human transmission can also occur. Symptoms of Nipah virus infection in humans can range from fever, headache, and muscle pain to acute respiratory infection, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and seizures. The mortality rate of Nipah virus infection ranges from 40% to 75%. There is no specific treatment for Nipah virus infection, and there is no vaccine available for humans. Prevention measures include avoiding exposure to sick animals, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding consumption of raw date palm sap, which has been implicated in the spread of the virus. Nipah virus outbreaks have been reported in several countries in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, and India. The virus is considered a potential pandemic threat by the World Health Organization (WHO).

[petnews2day]

Ebola outbreak in Uganda, as of 11 January 2023

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/rJV4w

Ebola outbreak in Uganda, as of 11 January 2023

Overall, 142 confirmed cases of Sudan virus disease (SVD) were reported, of which 55 died (CFR: 39%), and 87 recovered. In addition, 22 deaths among probable cases were reported in individuals who died before samples could be taken (overall CFR: 47%). At least 19 healthcare workers were infected, of whom seven died. Over 4000 contacts […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/rJV4w #OtherNews

[hardynwa]

Autism, Education, Ebola: 3rd World Record And Why Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy Is Running His 15th Marathon in Toghu

On April 17th, 2023, Cameroonian born Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy also known as Kitz will be amongst 30,000 runners chosen to complete the world’s most renowned and prestigious marathon in Boston, Massachusetts in the USA. - The Boston Marathon.  The Boston marathon started in 1897 making it the world’s oldest marathon and due to its  strict qualifying standards, it is also considered every runner's dream to participate at this global event Kitz has decided to celebrate this great event of running through four hills and eight towns of Boston by running in Toghu, a traditional attire worn by people from the northwest regions in Cameroon.  His goal is to raise funds to help reduce global illiteracy, bring awareness to autism and showcase his rich heritage from the grasslands of Cameroon.  He recently made history in the London and Athen Authentic Marathons (26.2 miles ~ 42.16 km)  by being the first and fastest person in the world to complete a marathon in Toghu. How it Began -  Thunder Road Marathon in Charlotte, USA  - 2011  Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy ran his first Marathon so he can raise money to buy books for some orphan children in Africa.  He was running to raise $6,000 which will also be used to help these children get a good education. It had a great impact and he had to run again in New York. In 2013 in New York, he ran to raise $10,000 to help construct school blocks and supply didactic materials to schools in Cameroon. He has so far ran to raise $121,325 in 14 marathons in four countries. He will be looking to raise another $10,000 in April 2023. Education, Ebola, Autism, Research And Other Reasons  With the majority of his reasons centered on education, Kitz has also run for other reasons that are geared towards improving the lives of people in impoverished regions in Africa. With children being the most beneficiaries in his Marathon missions, he has also run to raise money for Ebola victims and improved girl child education at the Chicago and Baltimore Marathons, respectively. Kizito ran to raise money for research on the feasibility study for Uganda to implement Citizen Led Assessment in Cameroon. He also ran to raise funds for a research that will measure the literacy rate of kids between 6-15 years in Cameroon. Running On Toghu And The 3rd World Record In 2021 Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy became the first person to ever run a marathon in Toghu.  He ran the entire  26.2 miles (42.16 km)  of the London Marathon in Toghu, raising $6,500 for research that will help make life better for children living with Autism. The London Marathon was an exciting experience for Kitz who then decided to keep up with the tempo by doing the same at the Authentic Athens Marathon in Greece, where he raised $27,000 for a research that will measure the literacy rate of kids between 6-15 years in Cameroon. The report has since been presented to the Ministry of Education in Cameroon with strong recommendations. With the London and Athens Marathons run in Toghu, Kitz will be doing the same at the Boston Marathon where he is expected to raise $10,000 to improve youth literacy in the USA and Cameroon. This is also a followup on the reason he ran last year in Athens, to help implement the recommendations of the previou report. Will You Run With Kitz? Now nicknamed the ‘Toghu Marathoner’, Kitz is using the outfit to draw more attention to what he is doing. This year he said he wants as many people as possible to run with him by donating to support the cause. “I am glad people want to run the 26.6 miles with me, and I appreciate the support as well as others who will still come on board”, Kitz said. Running with Kitz at the Boston Marathon involves helping him raise $10,000. You can do that donating through GiveGain by clicking HERE or scanning the QR code. Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy said that attempting a third world record is fantastic, but the main goal is completing the entire miles, raising the funds and seeing to the betterment of the lives of the potential beneficiaries. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa1Wl03xc0M&t=11s Will you run with Kitz? CLICK HERE. See full details of all the marathons run by Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy YearMarathonLocationCountryCause (Cameroon)Amount Raised ($)2011Thunder Road Marathon in CharlotteCharlotte NCUSABuy books and sponsor orphans 6,0002013New York MarathonNew York CityUSAConstruction of school and supply of didactic materials to schools in Cameroon10,0002014Novant Health MarathonCharlotte NCUSAConstruction of school50,0002014Chicago MarathonIllinoisUSAEbola3,0002015Marine CorpMarathonWashington DCUSABuy pro2015Rock 'n' Roll Savannah MarathonGeorgiaUSASupply books to primary schools3,1252016Rock 'n' Roll Savannah MarathonGeorgiaUSABuy school furniture2.3002018Baltimore MarathonMarylandUSAEducate the girl child2,4002018Richmond MarathonVirginiaUSASponsor orphans20002019Houston MarathonTexasUSAFeasibility study for Uganda to implement Citizen Led Assessment in Cameroon6,0002019Berlin MarathonBerlinGermanyAutism3,0002021London MarathonLondonUKAutism6.5002022Authentic Athens MarathonAthensGreeceMeasure of literacy rate of kids between 6-15$27,000 Read the full article