The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and most of the Indian population are immune to it, said health experts on Monday, even as the number of reported cases climbed to three in the country. On Monday, health officials in the country reported three cases of HMPV -- babies aged three- and eight-month-old from Bengaluru (Karnataka) and a two-year-old child in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad. “Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus. It has been part of the circulating flu virus in India for long. Hence, the majority of the Indian population has developed immunity against it,” Dr. Harshal R Salve, Additional Professor, Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, told IANS. He added that the “chances of a severe disease are very rare”. HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. “Like for any other flu viruses, elderly people, children and people with comorbidities must take care. There is no need to create panic, and one should stop rumour-mongering in the public,” Salve said. Also Read: HMPV outbreak: Has India panicked more than China? The two cases from Karnataka were detected via routine surveillance by ICMR in a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy. Both had a history of bronchopneumonia -- a form of pneumonia, a lung infection, and were admitted to a private hospital. Bronchopneumonia affects both the alveoli in the lungs and the bronchi. The Health Ministry informed that while the baby girl “has been discharged”, the baby boy “is now recovering” In the third case, the child, from Rajasthan, was admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda’s area of Ahmedabad, after showing symptoms of cold and cough. The child is stable now, reports quoted civic officials as saying. “HMPV is not a new virus. It commonly causes colds among children and also some adults. For self-limiting colds, we don’t do expensive tests to diagnose which specific virus it is due to. Therefore, the finding of this virus upon testing is not anything unusual or worrisome,” Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, told IANS. “All over the world, HMPV is a well-known cause of common cold,” he added. HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries, particularly in China. “Common cold is more common in winter, therefore it is being reported from China at this time. People should not get the impression that a new virus from China has now reached Bangalore,” Jayadevan told IANS. Notably, the three cases of HMPV have no travel history. Thus, it currently remains unknown whether the cases are related to the outbreak seen in China. “They (infected children) have not traveled to China, Malaysia, or any other country. The outbreak in China is linked to a new variant of HMPV. We do not yet have full details, and the government is still gathering information,” said Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, while speaking to the media. “HMPV isn’t new. What we don’t know is whether the strain is novel and has a virulence that’s different from what we’ve experienced in the past. Unless one knows that it is a novel strain, cases have been detected all the time! Hopefully, whole genome sequencing and clinical information will clarify soon,” said Lancelot Pinto, an Indian pulmonologist and epidemiologist, in a post on social media platform X. Meanwhile, the government has issued precautionary measures such as covering mouth and nose with handkerchiefs or tissue paper while coughing, or sneezing; washing hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer; avoiding crowded places; staying away from public places while having fever, cough, or sneezing. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
06 January,2025 04:28 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSA team of doctors in Kolkata have successfully treated a rare instance of bilateral Herpes Zoster in a 74-year-old woman, Nanda Ghosh. This is only the fourth documented case of bilateral Herpes Zoster in the country involving a patient who is not immunocompromised. She was brought to Manipal Hospitals, Broadway with complaints like fever, high-grade headache, nasal discharge, congestion, and coughing, Upon examination, vesiculopapular rashes (small bumps or fluid-filled blisters) among other symptoms suggested a severe and rare presentation of the Herpes virus. The woman was suffering from days of fever, unceasing headache, and pain so inexplicable it just won't subside. Despite a growing sense that something is seriously wrong, the underlying cause remained unknown. Such was the condition of this elderly patient till her son brought her to the hospital where finally her condition found a diagnosis and treatment. Herpes Zoster, commonly known as shingles can cause painful rashes and typically forms along a single nerve root (dermatome) on one side of the body, often affecting areas like the chest, abdomen, or face. However, in this case, it manifested bilaterally, which is extremely rare. The lesions formed on both sides of the face, including around the forehead, cheeks, and eyes, which is highly unusual in someone in relatively healthy condition. A multidisciplinary team led by Dr Partha Sarathi Bhattacharjee, consultant - internal medicine, at the hospital confirmed the diagnosis through an extensive investigation. The patient was treated with antiviral medication (Zovirax) to target the Herpes virus and antibiotics (Meropenem) to manage secondary bacterial infections. Dermatologists and ophthalmologists were consulted to ensure comprehensive care. Dr Bhattacharjee explained, “This case was a medical rarity, especially in a healthy elderly individual without immunosuppression. Such cases challenge conventional medical understanding and require advanced diagnostic expertise. If left untreated, Herpes Zoster can lead to severe complications such as blindness, hearing loss, and nerve damage. Getting the shingles vaccine can prevent herpes outbreaks. The shingles vaccine is administered in a 2-dose series, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first for optimal effectiveness. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the condition and preventing complications. While this vaccine is recommended for all ages, this is particularly beneficial for the elderly or those at higher risk.” Nanda’s son shared his emotional journey, stating, “Watching my mother suffer without knowing what was wrong was heart-wrenching. This is the fourth time we have relied on Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, and every time, they have exceeded our expectations. My mother's condition was critical and very unusual, but the doctors here handled it with extraordinary care and expertise. Thanks to their efforts, my mother is now back home with her family. We are deeply thankful.” In a week, the patient showed great improvement under the care of the hospital. Her fever abated, and rashes resolved without secondary infection; her general condition stabilised. The patient was discharged in ten days with overall good health and immense gratitude regarding the compassionate and highly professional treatment.
06 January,2025 03:07 PM IST | Kolkata | mid-day online correspondentMumbai doctors have successfully treated a rare and life-threatening pancreatic condition in a 13-year-old girl from Sangli in Maharashtra. The patient was detected with pseudoaneurysm in the gastroduodenal artery in the pseudocyst of the pancreas along with pancreatitis which was successfully managed by a minimally invasive procedure guided by angiography, performed by Dr Rahul Sheth, an interventional radiologist. This procedure not only alleviated her pain but also offered a lasting solution to her complex condition. The team of experts at Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre was led by Dr Rajeev Redkar, paediatric surgeon along with Dr Aniruddha Phadke, gastroenterologist with paediatricians Dr Deepak Ugra and Dr Minhaj Sheikh, and Dr Sheth. The patient, Aditi Kamble, experienced symptoms such as acute abdominal pain one week ago. The young girl, who has a family history of pancreatic disease, was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis two years ago. Her family sought the advice of a gastroenterologist but her condition didn’t improve. She continued to have intermittent pain in her abdomen. Last week, she experienced severe abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting which interfered with her daily routine. She visited another hospital in Mumbai where her condition could not be managed. After that, the patient was admitted to Lilavati Hospital for this life-saving intervention. Dr Redkar said, “The patient was in distress due to unbearable abdominal pain on arrival in the hospital. Her abdomen CT scan revealed a pseudocyst (a fluid-filled mass in the pancreas) and a leaking pseudo-aneurysm of the gastro-duodenal artery within the pseudocyst, a rare and critical condition, especially in children. The patient suffered from this condition due to genetic factors as her father also struggled with pancreatic disease. After the pancreatitis resolved, she was detected with pseudocyst of the pancreas and pancreatitis (swelling and inflammation of the pancreas). The incidence of the leaking pseudoaneurysm in a pseudocyst of the pancreas is a very rare problem probably found in 1 in 10, 00,000 children with pancreatitis. The girl also had a dilated pancreatic duct and stones within her pancreas which further compromised the functioning of the pancreatic gland. The compromised pancreatic function caused stunted growth and acute on chronic abdominal pain.” He added, “In collaboration with interventional radiologists, advanced angiographic techniques were utilised to approach and coil the aneurysm, successfully stopping the active bleeding and obliterating the aneurysm. This uneventful procedure called angiographic embolisation of the gastroduodenal artery (GDA) aneurysm lasted for one hour. The patient was discharged after one week in a stable condition. Her pain is resolved and follow-up sonography has shown no recurrence. Not treating her at the right time could have raised the risk of complications like bleeding inside the pseudo pancreatic cyst. This case highlights Lilavati Hospital’s commitment to delivering life-saving care for the patients.” “We are deeply thankful to Dr Rajeev Redkar and his team for their exceptional care and expertise. They not only saved my daughter’s life but also gave us hope by managing her condition. She is excited to return to school and spend time with her friends,” said the patient’s mother expressing his gratitude for the timely intervention. "Our team at Lilavati Hospital is committed to providing the highest level of care, and the successful treatment of this young patient is a testimony to unmatched care and dedication. With the help of the latest technology and expertise, together we tackle even the rarest and most complex conditions. This case highlights the power of teamwork, advanced medical care, and our relentless focus on improving patient outcomes. We're proud to have saved this child's life and offer a brighter future for her," concluded Dr Niraj Uttamani, chief operating officer at the Bandra hospital.
06 January,2025 02:34 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentFive years after the Covid-19 pandemic, China is reportedly reeling under another respiratory virus – Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). Several media reports and social media posts from the country suggest that there is an increase in respiratory infections in the country, including those caused due to HMPV, with some even claiming that hospitals are overwhelmed. However, Chinese authorities and the World Health Organization have not raised concern or declared any emergency. Data from the Chinese CDC, in late December, showed that “the positive rate of HMPV in cases aged 14 and below has recently fluctuated and increased”, China’s state broadcaster CCTV had reported. What is HMPV and how does it affect the body? According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV, discovered in 2001, comes in the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, serological studies have shown that it has existed in humans for more than 60 years and is distributed all over the world. This virus can cause upper and lower respiratory issues. What are the symptoms of HMPV? HMPV presents flu-like symptoms like cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. According to the US CDC, clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections. The estimated incubation period is three to six days. Which age group is most affected? Although the virus can affect people of all age groups, it is most common in young children and the elderly. According to the American Lung Association, though a history of asthma, COPD or any other lung disease does not make someone more likely to contract the illness, once they have it, these lung diseases can make symptoms more severe. This is also true for people with weakened immune systems. How does HMPV spread? HMPV is mainly transmitted through droplets or aerosols produced by coughing and sneezing. The Chinese CDC states that close contact with infected people and exposure to virus-contaminated environments may also cause transmission. Is there a treatment for HMPV? There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Experts are also warning against using antivirals for HMPV. According to IANS, in a recent interview with the state-backed National Business Daily, a respiratory expert at a Shanghai hospital warned the public against blindly using antiviral drugs to fight human metapneumovirus, for which there is no vaccine but whose symptoms resemble those of a cold. What precautionary steps can one take to protect themselves from the virus? Wear a mask when going to crowded places. Also, frequent hand washing, ventilation and scientific disinfection can effectively reduce the chance of HMPV infection. While addressing the media, Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), India, recommended common precautionary steps against respiratory infections. "If somebody has a cough and cold, you should avoid coming in contact with a lot of people so that the infection does not spread. Use a distinct handkerchief or towel for coughing and sneezing and take normal medicines that are required for cold or fever whenever it is there,” he noted. Does India need to worry? While there is concern over the reported increase in HMPV infections in China, particularly due to the Covid-19 pandemic that shook the world five years back, Indian health officials have said that there is no cause of concern. "The spread of HMPV in China is like any other respiratory virus. There is no need for alarm about the present situation," Dr Goel told the media, as reported by IANS. He said there is any way an increased outbreak of respiratory virus infections in winter, for which hospitals are usually prepared with supplies and beds, further informing that there is "no significant increase in the December 2024 data on the respiratory outbreaks within the country". Also Read: HMPV in China: Closely monitoring influenza cases in India, no need to be alarmed, says govt Is it the new Covid-19 type virus outbreak? While HMPV presents similar symptoms as Covid-19, there is no official statement yet on the nature of the reported outbreak in China. The World Health Organization has not raised any alarm or released any advisory as of now. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
06 January,2025 12:38 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndian digital healthcare platform MediBuddy has revealed its latest insights through their latest report on how more Indians are shifting towards digital healthcare solutions. One of the many is that 40 per cent of health bookings through them were made for family and friends. More importantly, the type of bookings included not heart or diabetes health but gastroenterology, paediatrics and dermatology among others The data reveals a striking portrait of family health dynamics in Indian households. Within this segment, 44 per cent of bookings were for parents, reflecting the younger generation's active role in their care. Spousal health accounted for 33 per cent, highlighting strong partner support, while children's health services comprised 11 per cent of these bookings. One of the most prominent insights from 2024 is the significant shift in when people seek healthcare. 37 per cent of online consultations in 2024 occurred after 6 pm, highlighting a growing demand for high quality healthcare 24x7. This shift highlights the need for flexible, accessible care that aligns with modern, busy lifestyles, moving beyond traditional office hours. Gastroenterology, paediatrics, and dermatology were the most frequently accessed specialities on the platform. With digestive health also a growing concern, many turned to gastroenterologists for support, highlighting the rising awareness around the importance of gut health. Paediatrics was a focal point for many families, with parents increasingly relying on paediatricians to help them navigate their children’s growth and health. Meanwhile, dermatology emerged as a top speciality, with a significant increase in consultations for skin-related issues such as acne and overall skincare. The health platform also looked at how its users are contributing to a more sustainable future. By switching to digital reports, the platform was able to save enough paper to preserve the equivalent of 1,195 trees, which can absorb approximately 30,000 kg of CO2 annually. The choice to move consultations online had an even greater environmental impact, preventing 2.75 million kg of CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere from fuel burning. This shift not only highlights how digital healthcare is reshaping the patient experience but also how collective action can contribute to a healthier planet. In 2024, the platform's phlebotomists travelled a staggering 80 lakh kilometres to deliver sample collection services at home. To put this in perspective, that’s the distance it would take to travel from Kashmir to Kanyakumari 2,192 times. Of particular note is that 25 per cent of the phlebotomists making these tireless journeys were women.
06 January,2025 12:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentEvery year, people set many different kinds of resolutions at the start of the new year. While 2025 is no different, health is always a priority and one of the top resolutions that people always have. However, setting health goals can often be quite intimidating as one may be hard on themselves almost instantly. Dr Ajit Menon, consultant,, cardiac sciences at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital says to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, it's essential to focus on moderation in all aspects of life, from diet to exercise and sleep. Here are some key habits to incorporate into your routine for overall well-being: 1. Watch your diet and avoid binging: It’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding overindulgence and fad diets. The key is moderation. Understand the nutritional needs of your body, which will depend on your lifestyle, activity level, and individual requirements. Plan your meals around these needs, ensuring you provide your body with the right fuel. 2. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity is a must for maintaining good health. Aim for at least 20 minutes of exercise each day, whether it’s a brisk walk or a workout routine. Remember, moderation is vital—overdoing it can lead to injury or burnout. If you're starting a new fitness routine as part of a New Year’s resolution, consider working with a trainer to ensure you’re exercising correctly and safely. 3. Sleep well and adequately: Sleep is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining overall health. Aim for at least 7 hours of quality sleep each night to recharge and rejuvenate your body and mind. Consistent, restful sleep allows you to function at your best and supports both physical and mental health. 4. Avoid smoking and recreational substances: Smoking and recreational drug use should be strictly avoided. These substances are harmful to your health and can cause a range of serious illnesses. Protecting your body from these risks is vital for maintaining long-term health. 5. Learn to manage stress: Managing stress is an essential skill for well-being. Spending time with loved ones is a great way to unwind, and pursuing hobbies or discovering new ones can be incredibly beneficial. Remember, no one is indispensable, and taking time to relax is necessary for staying mentally healthy. 6. Moderation is key: Whether it's food, exercise, or stress management, moderation is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Too much of anything, even good things, can be harmful. Striving for balance is the key to feeling your best.
06 January,2025 11:37 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIndia is well-prepared to handle respiratory illnesses and surveillance shows no unusual surge in the country, according to the government, as reports surface about rising cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China in the past few weeks. In a joint monitoring group (JMG) meeting under the chairmanship of DGHS, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, experts had detailed discussions around the spread of respiratory illnesses in China. According to them, the situation in China is not unusual in view of the ongoing flu season. The reports also suggest that the cause of the present surge is influenza virus, RSV and HMPV – the usual pathogens that are expected during the season. The government said it is keeping a close watch over the situation through all available channels and the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also been requested to share timely updates regarding the situation in China. A robust surveillance system for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) for Influenza is already in place in India through both ICMR and IDSP networks and the data from both indicates no unusual surge in ILI and SARI cases. Physicians from hospitals have also confirmed that there is no surge in respiratory illness cases in the last few weeks other than the expected seasonal variation. Data from the recently conducted preparedness drill indicated that the country is well prepared to deal with any increase in respiratory illnesses. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) network also tests for other respiratory viruses such as Adenovirus, RSV, HMPV etc. and these pathogens also do not show an unusual increase in the tested samples. As a precautionary measure, the number of laboratories testing for HMPV will be enhanced by ICMR, and ICMR will be monitoring trends of HMPV for the entire year, according to health ministry. Also Read: HMPV outbreak in China: A few FAQs answered; here's all you need to know This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
05 January,2025 10:01 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSAs temperatures drop, a trend of increased prostate-related problems among men over 60 has been observed by experts. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also called prostate gland enlargement, is a common condition that older men can suffer from during the winter months. In a conversation with mid-day.com, Dr Saurabh Mittal, Urologist, Apollo Spectra, Karol Bagh, Delhi, explains, “The cold weather can lead to reduced physical activity and dehydration, both of which are factors that can exacerbate prostate problems like BPH. Dehydration makes the urine more concentrated, irritating the bladder and increasing urination frequency.” Sharing how common this problem is, he says, “In the OPD, every day, 5 in 10 men over 60 are complaining of urinary problems and are evaluated for BPH. Older men over the age of 55 to 60 can develop problems with urination due to an enlarged prostate (BPH).” Symptoms of BPH BPH can cause significant discomfort and urination issues during colder months. “Men experiencing BPH often notice symptoms such as frequent urination, inability to empty the bladder, etc. Recognising these early signs is vital to avoid complications like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder stones,” informs Dr Mittal. “These symptoms tend to worsen as the days become colder and impact one’s quality of life. Also, one sweats less i.e., loses less fluid while sweating and, in this process, more urine is produced. One ends up using the washroom frequently,” he adds. Diagnosis of BPH The symptoms of BPH mentioned above are sometimes confused with UTIs, which leads to unnecessary antibiotic administration. Accurate diagnosis is essential to administer the right treatment. Dr Mittal states, “For diagnosing BPH, a combination of a physical examination, urine tests and ultrasound is recommended to the patient.” Also Read: Prostate cancer screening must be done every 5 years: Study Treatment and prevention of BPH Patients suffering from BPH can be treated with lifestyle modifications, medication or minimally invasive surgery. However, one can prevent this condition and maintain prostate health by following some simple steps. Dr Mittal recommends the following: Stay hydrated. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol. Stay physically active through exercise. Wearing warm clothing and maintaining a healthy diet also play a pivotal role in reducing winter-related prostate issues. It is the need of the hour for men to pay attention to their prostate health. Consulting a urologist for regular check-ups can significantly improve outcomes. Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified medical expert for personalised guidance.
05 January,2025 01:22 PM IST | MumbaiRoughly a fourth of the Indian population has access to a rehabilitation centre within an hour of experiencing an ischaemic stroke -- caused when a blood clot affects supply to the brain, a study has found. The research, published in the International Journal of Stroke, also estimated that there is less than one ischaemic stroke centre per million population. Ischaemic stroke is the most common, accounting for about 70-80 per cent of all strokes in India, according to a September 2024 study, published in the journal Scientific Reports. In the recent study, researchers, including those from the US' Ascension Health and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Hyderabad, found that a total of 566 stroke centres equipped with the 'intravenous thrombolysis' method of treatment (which breaks up blood clots) were spread across 26 states and union territories. Of the 566, over 60 per cent (361) were found to be also equipped with endovascular therapy for stroke patients, considered superior. Typically, an ischaemic stroke patient was 115 kilometres away from the nearest intravenous thrombolysis treatment centre and about 130 kilometres away from the nearest endovascular therapy centre, the researchers found. Further, a little over 26 per cent of the Indian population can access intravenous thrombolysis centre in under an hour, while about a fifth can access endovascular therapy centre, the team found. For the analysis, data on "intravenous thrombolysis capable (IVT-C) and endovascular treatment capable (EVT-C)" stroke centres were collected in March 2021 from medical devices and pharmaceutical industry providers. Time taken to drive to the nearest stroke care centre was estimated using the application 'Google Distance Matrix API'. "Access within one hour to an IVT-C and an EVT-C centre was available to 26.3 per cent and 20.6 per cent of the Indian population, respectively," the authors wrote. "The average stroke centres per million (SCPM) population was 0.41 and 0.26 for IVT-C and EVT-C, respectively," they wrote. Further, "median (typical) distances to the nearest IVT-C and EVT-C centres were 115 kilometres and 131 kilometres, respectively." The authors said establishing stroke facilities equipped with intravenous thrombolysis and endovascular treatments in poorly served regions in India is urgently needed to increase access and improve outcomes for stroke patients. Also Read: World Stroke Day: Why young adults face a higher risk of stroke from lifestyle choices This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
04 January,2025 08:40 PM IST | Mumbai | PTIAmid the recent outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, an expert from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) on Saturday said that the virus does not cause fatalities like Covid-19 but can in some individuals cause lung infection. Speaking to IANS Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Chairman of the Kerala State IMA Research Cell, said that HMPV is very common in young children and there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment recommended. “The HMPV or the Human Metapneumovirus is not a killer virus. It is not a virus that causes severe pneumonia or causes deaths like Covid did in the first part of the pandemic,” Jayadevan said. “In fact, this virus is so common among young children that nearly 100 per cent of younger children would have become infected by the age of four or five years,” he added. The expert noted that for most people HMPV will cause mild symptoms. At the same time, “it causes bronchiolitis (lung infection) and worsening of asthma in a few individuals. It can also affect people who have underlying lung diseases like chronic obstructive lung disease and adults, especially with compromised immune systems,” the doctor said. HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Jayadevan said that the HMPV is one of several viruses well known to cause mild respiratory infections in young children. The others include common coronaviruses, the rhinovirus, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus or RSV, and influenza viruses. “Among these, the RSV is known to cause infections in young children. The situation in China is not as severe as some reports might suggest. China is going through winter, especially in the northern parts of that country, and this winter is severe,” he told IANS. “HMPV is not a cause of concern any more than it is in every regular winter season,” he added. While “no vaccine or antiviral treatment is recommended at this time,” Jayadevan suggested precautionary measures to reduce the spread of this virus. This “includes frequent handwashing, staying home when having respiratory symptoms and not mingling with other people if you have respiratory symptoms”. Also Read: HMPV outbreak in China: A few FAQs answered; here's all you need to know This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
04 January,2025 01:24 PM IST | Mumbai | IANSWinter, a season marked by cosy nights and festive cheer, can also bring about a host of health challenges. The changing weather can negatively impact our health and weaken our immune system, owing to the colder temperatures coupled with decreased sunlight exposure. However, incorporating superfoods into your winter diet can significantly boost immunity by providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By further understanding the common health concerns and adopting a proactive approach to nutrition, we can effectively bolster our immunity and enjoy a stress-free winter. Dr Thousia Hassan, consultant-dietitian and nutritionist at Motherhood Hospitals, Bangalore, and Tanisha Bawa, certified nutrition coach and founder of Tan 365, outline common health concerns and key nutrients and share seasonal Indian superfoods to include in your diet to boost immunity and for holistic health improvement this winter. Common health concerns during winter Winter in India can bring about a range of health concerns due to the seasonal changes in temperature, humidity, and air quality. Hassan outlines common health issues below: Respiratory issuesThe cold, dry air during winter can lead to an increase in respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and the common cold. Air pollution, which tends to be higher in many Indian cities during winter months, also exacerbates these conditions. Joint pain and Arthritis The cold weather can cause muscles and joints to stiffen, leading to discomfort, especially for those with arthritis or other joint-related conditions. This is because the low temperatures can reduce blood flow to the extremities. Also Read: Joint pain increase in winter: Know the causes and preventive measures Dry skin and dehydration Cold air tends to sap moisture from the skin, leading to dryness, itching, and cracking. Dehydration is also a risk, as people tend to drink less water during the winter months, despite the body still needing hydration. Weakened immunity The body may be more susceptible to infections during the winter months, especially if you're not eating a well-balanced diet or getting enough sunlight for vitamin D synthesis. As an expert in gut and hormonal health, Bawa frequently emphasises anti-inflammatory diets for clients instead of highlighting seasonal variations. Debunking myths You need to eat heavier foods to stay warm. It's commonly believed that the body needs heavy, high-calorie foods to stay warm in the cold. “Winter definitely calls for more warming foods, but it's important to stay clear of excessive fats and sugars, which can cause inflammation and slow digestion, and instead choose nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory elements,” states Bawa. You don’t need to stay hydrated as muchAssuming that less water is required because of decreased perspiration, many people likewise undervalue the importance of staying hydrated throughout the winter. “In order to keep the skin hydrated and digestion at its best, it is essential to stay hydrated. Furthermore, seasonal superfoods high in fibre and antioxidants boost overall health by naturally reducing inflammation through a diet based on anti-inflammatory principles,” explains Bawa. Key nutrients for winter wellness To combat these winter woes, it's essential to focus on a nutrient-rich diet. By incorporating certain key nutrients, we can strengthen our immune system, protect our skin, and improve overall well-being. Hassan lists key nutrients to include in your diet this winter: Vitamin D: Due to limited sunlight exposure, it’s important to focus on foods rich in Vitamin D, such as fortified dairy products, eggs, and salmon. Vitamin D helps in immune function and bone health. Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens, Vitamin C helps boost the immune system, especially when we’re more prone to infections during the colder months. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats found in foods like walnuts, flaxseeds, and fish support immune function and help reduce inflammation, which can be exacerbated by the cold weather. Zinc: Zinc is essential for maintaining a strong immune system; zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, lentils, and chickpeas are beneficial during winter. Five seasonal Indian superfoods for winter The cold weather tends to suppress the body's natural healing processes, making it more vulnerable to infections, joint pain, and low energy. Superfoods, due to their dense nutritional profile, are particularly beneficial during winter months as they provide the body with concentrated nutrients that can support immune function, fight inflammation, and improve overall health. Bawa shares five Indian superfoods that must be a part of every diet this winter. Amla Indian gooseberry (amla) is a little, green fruit that provides a great source of vitamin C, which is vital for a healthy immune system. Additionally, amla has nutrients and antioxidants that promote detoxification, skin vitality, and digestive health. It's especially helpful in the winter because of its high vitamin C concentration, which helps prevent respiratory problems and seasonal colds. For optimal benefits, amla can be consumed raw, in chutneys, or as a juice. Ginger A traditional cure for preventing cold winter chills, ginger is well-known for its warming qualities. It helps ease coughs, sore throats, and digestive problems because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. Additionally, ginger promotes circulation and gives the body a natural, calming heat. To reap the advantages of ginger, use it in your tea, soups, curries, or even desserts. Sesame seeds (til) The nutrient-dense seeds provide calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron—all of which are essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Sesame seeds provide body warmth throughout the winter months and are frequently added to savoury recipes or eaten as a tasty treat in the form of sesame brittle (tilgul). Use sesame seeds to enhance the taste and nutritional value of salads, chutneys, and traditional Indian desserts. Sweet potatoes (shakarkand) A wonderful source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are a multipurpose root vegetable that is ideal for the lower temperatures and shorter days of winter. In addition to aiding in digestion and blood sugar regulation, sweet potatoes offer a gradual release of energy. For a hearty, wholesome side dish, try them roasted, in curries, or even boiled with a dash of spices. Jaggery (gur) Rich in iron and antioxidants, jaggery is frequently used as a natural sweetener in Indian cooking. By enhancing blood circulation, promoting energy levels, and aiding in digestion, it aids in the body's cleansing process. Jaggery is perfect for teas, desserts, or adding to regular dal since it adds a subtle sweetness and warmth to your wintertime meals. Easy yet delicious ways to include winter vegetables in meals Winter brings a range of vibrant vegetables that are both nutritious and versatile. Spinach and carrots are particularly abundant and beneficial in cold weather. Bawa shares some simple ways to incorporate these into your meals: Spinach Spinach potato vegetable: A traditional North Indian side dish, aloo spinach sabzi is a moderately spicy stir-fry of potatoes and spinach that goes well with rotis or as an accompaniment to dal. Stir-fried spinach and mushrooms: This dish is a tasty side dish that's high in antioxidants and fibre. For a quick and filling side, stir-fry with garlic and a little soy sauce. Spinach rice: This easy yet tasty dish is a hearty, high-iron, high-fibre dinner made with rice, spinach, garlic, and spices. Carrot Carrot mixed vegetable sabzi: This dish incorporates carrots along with other seasonal vegetables in a mildly spiced curry. It’s a comforting and nutrient-dense side dish. Carrot and peas curry: A staple winter recipe, this curry combines the sweetness of carrots and the texture of fresh peas, cooked with mild spices. It’s a warming, nutritious dish that pairs well with parathas or rice. Potato and carrot stir-fry: This simple and traditional recipe involves cooking potatoes and carrots with cumin and turmeric, making a warm, earthy side dish ideal for cold days.
04 January,2025 12:22 PM IST | Mumbai | Maitrai AgarwalADVERTISEMENT
