United News of Bangladesh

“Stop referring to a coming post-antibiotic era — it’s already here.”- This statement was made by the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Report (2019) almost within a century of the invention of the first antibiotic by Sir Alexander Flemming. Now, globally, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is the 3rd leading cause of death. In 2019, about 4.95 million premature deaths occurred due to AMR which was higher than HIV/AIDS or malaria and this could rise to more than 10 million by 2050.  Bangladesh also cannot escape the AMR threat. In 2019, about 26,200 deaths were attributed to AMR, and 98,000 deaths were directly related to AMR. Among 204 countries, Bangladesh was ranked 75 according to the age-standardized mortality rate affiliated with AMR per 1,00,000, which is alarming and needs proper action to control.  What is AMR? Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a condition where microbes, bacteria, and viruses evolve in such a way that the drugs that were previously used against them are no longer effective, thus leading to serious illness and in some cases death.  AMR is now a global concern that almost all countries including Bangladesh are suffering from. And, there is a heavy burden on the Sub-Saharan African countries. However, there is inadequate data regarding AMR-related fatalities in low-income countries.  Read more: Edible oil in drums poses a threat to public health: PROGGA Misuse or overuse of the antimicrobials is a significant driver of resistance. If the treatment is too long or short or incorrect, this increases the chance of antimicrobials becoming resistant. If this occurs then it creates more opportunities for microbes to develop and multiply. AMR scenario in Bangladesh AMR is a serious public health concern as Bangladesh has a decentralized healthcare system. In Bangladesh, most healthcare facilities are concentrated in secondary and tertiary hospitals.  Besides these, the domestic pharmaceutical industries are now providing 97% of the countries’ medicine. Privately owned pharmacies and dispensaries resulted in easy access to the drugs. According to a  CAPTURA report in collaboration with UK Aid, uncontrolled pharmacies in Bangladesh resulted in possible misuse of antibiotics. It is estimated that almost 50.9% of the total antibiotics were purchased without prescription, which is an alarming situation. The number of AMR deaths in Bangladesh is higher than deaths caused by diseases like chronic respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, respiratory infections, diabetes, kidney diseases, and digestive diseases.  Read more: Infections cause 20-40% of newborn deaths in Bangladesh: Study Due to the decentralised healthcare system, AMR surveillance in Bangladesh is difficult to monitor. To prevent this situation from worsening, the government should take steps for monitoring in collaboration with the research centres like icddr,b, IEDCR, and different NGOs working on the healthcare facilities. Furthermore, international organisations like WHO, US-CDC, FFCGB, and USAID need to play crucial roles in controlling the situation. Analysis of the policy issue According to a WHO report, Southeast Asian countries have the highest risk of AMR among all the WHO regions. Bangladesh is no exception to this. In Bangladesh, antimicrobials are widely available as over-the-counter drugs.  This situation became more complicated due to the presence of unqualified providers in the informal sector along with unethical marketing practices of the pharmaceutical companies. Besides human health hazards, the AMR has a drastic impact on the animals and the environment too (National Library of Medicine, n.d.).  Impacts on human health A recent research in Dhaka showed that in the case of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), the most used antibiotics like Amoxicillin (82%), Azithromycin (75%), and Cefixime (64.5%) were found resistant among 1308 samples used.  Read more: HMPV Virus Outbreak: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention Another newspaper report shows that almost 18% of bacteria isolated from children affected with pneumonia were resistant to all routinely used antibiotics like ampicillin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, and ceftriaxone. The report also showed that the frequent use of antibiotics to treat general colds, flu, and mild diarrheal illness is mostly responsible for fueling the AMR in the community.  It has been observed that almost all age groups are more or less resistant to antibiotics but the children and youth are mostly affected by its effect. Economic impact In 2019, the World Bank found that the impact of AMR is also negatively affecting the world economy. The report estimated that by 2050, unchecked AMR would reduce the world GDP by 3.8% and push 28 million people into poverty. As a developing country, Bangladesh will also be a sufferer of this problem as due to AMR, people are now spending more on healthcare compared to other spending.  A recent analysis showed that unaddressed AMR on livestock would cost global GDP up  to $950 billion and its spread from livestock to humans would cost up to $5.2 trillion of world GDP (World Health Organisation, 2024). Read more: Read more: Should You Drink Hot or Cold Water? Environmental impact Multi-drug-resistant bacteria have already affected the ecology of Bangladesh. Common resistant phenotypes included common antibiotics like Ampicillin, Tetracycline, Aztreonam, Nalidixic acid, and Ciprofloxacin.  How does this issue affect different groups of people? According to a report by Medical News Today, the most affected group by AMR is children under 5 years with pneumonia. Almost 18% of the total isolated bacteria are resistant to all routinely used antibiotics.  The unsafe drinking water and poor sanitation are responsible for some common diseases which creates the demand for the widespread availability of over-the-counter antibiotics from the local pharmacies. Besides this misconception about antibiotics, weak surveillance processes, and less awareness among the sellers and patients are continually contributing to the growing AMR according to a report by the Dhaka Tribune. The irrational use of antibiotics in animal feed like poultry farms, and defective water management in the city are also spreading AMR among city people.  Read more: How to Fix Your Sleep Routine: Know the Do's and Don'ts A report by the Business Standard shows that 8 of the 12 antibiotics used in poultry farms were ineffective by at least 40% against the most common bacteria like E.coli.  Comparative analysis Different countries around the world are taking different approaches to tackle the situation like the One Health approach, Surveillance, Stewardship, awareness building, and agricultural steps.  USA The USA has taken steps like strengthening national One Health surveillance efforts, assuring advanced and innovative diagnostic tests, running an Antimicrobial stewardship program and national awareness week, promoting improved international collaboration to slow down the AMR among the people, etc. Besides, the US Government enforced the FDA regulations to restrict antibiotics in animal feeds. These initiatives resulted in a 15% reduction in overall antibiotic prescriptions in the last decade. However, resistance persists due to continuous overuse of antibiotics in outpatient care and agricultural misuse.  Read more: Effective Home Remedies to Combat Bad Breath UK The UK has taken the National Action Plan focusing on the One Health approach, assuring strict regulation, and public campaigns named “Keep Antibiotics Working”. These measures helped to reduce 23% of human antibiotic consumption between 2014 and 2020. In recent years, the UK has undertaken a long-term plan“Confronting AMR 2024 to 2029.” However, in the case of rural areas, this problem is still prominent.  India India initiated the National Action Plan in 2017 to address this issue. Besides this, they started surveillance through the Indian Council of Medical Research. These resulted positively in creating awareness against AMR. However, inadequate data was found regarding the use of antibiotics in the agricultural sectors. Bangladesh Bangladesh also initiated a national action plan to improve surveillance along with the One Health approach and stewardship. Besides this, different surveillance units are active in different hospitals to combat the situation. Public awareness has been created but is limited. Weak enforcement of regulations of antibiotics, the profit-maximizing attitude of pharmaceutical companies, and unregulated pharmacies lead to the persistence of the AMR situation. Read more: Colon Cancer: Everything You Need to Know Key lessons for Bangladesh The developed countries exhibited a long-term plan to slow down the AMR problems. Furthermore, they are successful in reducing the percentage of AMR to a great extent. They are now working on surveillance and creating public awareness in curbing the effects of the AMR. Moreover, the developed countries are taking action to reduce the effect on the agricultural sectors which Bangladesh lacks.  Proposed solutions and reforms   Bangladesh needs to take both short-term and long-term plans to curb the effect of AMR. Here are some proposed solutions: - Introducing DHIS2 for every patient so that the diseases and prescriptions are documented and developed in such a way that if antibiotics are prescribed then signals will be sent to professionals. This will help to review the necessity of antibiotics.- Pharmaceutical companies should be properly regulated so that they cannot put pressure on doctors to prescribe unnecessary antimicrobials.- Public awareness should be created from the root level. The concept of AMR and its dreadful effect can be included in the national curricula.- The authorities may take initiatives to regulate the pharmacies and take the selling of antibiotics under surveillance. This will help the authorities to track the record of selling antibiotics.- Traditional methods of treatment like Unani, Ayurvedic medicines, and Homeopathy need to be revived by doing research.- The private sector in collaboration with NGOs may take initiatives to raise awareness among the rural people.- The international development partners need to collaborate with the government for funding and propose policies that are effective in different countries.- Doctors along with pharmacists should be properly trained about the AMR effects.- Mobile health courts may be established to regulate the local pharmacies. - The farmers need training and proper awareness should be created to control the use of antibiotics in the agricultural and livestock sectors.- The tannery industries should be taken under surveillance to reduce water pollution which is responsible for evolving germs in different ways. Read more: Why You Should Try Walking Backwards Conclusion In the 21st century, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a global concern, and Bangladesh is at high risk. Proper actions and reforms in the healthcare sector may control the situation. In this case, proper steps should be taken by the government in collaboration with the private sectors, like NGOs, development partners, doctors, and pharmaceutical companies. And, most importantly, the mass population of the country should stand against the AMR effects. Otherwise, it would result in health hazards, economic problems, and environmental concerns to a greater extent.

In response to the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, India's federal health ministry has urged states to strengthen their monitoring of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI). During a review of respiratory illnesses in the country on Monday, the federal health secretary evaluated the existing public health measures for managing such infections. The health ministry stated that data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) shows no unusual rise in ILI or SARI cases across the country, a finding supported by sentinel surveillance data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Two cases of HMPV detected in India’s Karnataka HMPV is among the respiratory viruses that affect individuals of all ages, particularly during winter and early spring. Although infections are typically mild and self-limiting, most patients recover without complications. States have been advised to educate the public on preventive measures, including frequent handwashing with soap, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, and maintaining distance from individuals displaying symptoms.

China is reportedly observing another pathogenic outbreak after COVID-19, with the rise of human metapneumovirus cases. Video footage on social media shows overcrowded hospitals, claiming the surge of multiple viruses, including HMPV, influenza A, COVID-19, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.  What is HMPV? Human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is one of the common causes of respiratory tract infections (RTI) among children and the elderly. The virus causes upper and lower respiratory infections and shows regular flu-like symptoms. Children under 5 and adults over 65 may suffer from pneumonia, asthma, and other respiratory issues due to their poor immunity levels. The virus is classified under the Metapneumovirus genus, which belongs to the Pneumovirus subfamily and the Paramyxoviridae family. The Metapneumovirus genus has two species—metapneumovirus hominins, or human metapneumovirus, and Metapneumovirus avis, or avian pneumovirus—both liable to induce respiratory dysfunctions in animals. However, HMPV is the only virus within the Metapneumovirus genus that infects humans.  Read more: Should You Drink Hot or Cold Water? HMPV was first identified by Dutch scientists in 2001, but it has been circulating among humans for more than 50 years.  Causes of HMPV All viral diseases are contagious, and HMPV is not an exception. People can get it from direct or close contact with an infected person. The virus spreads through contaminated secretions like saliva, phlegm, droplets, and large particle aerosols. Touching a surface or object contaminated with the pathogen with hands and later using them to wipe the mouth or nose may conduct the virus into the body. HMPV also shows the same seasonal bias as other flu viruses. It thrives in cold seasons; therefore, HMPV infections are more common during winter and early spring. Read more: How to Avoid Winter Weight Gain Signs and Symptoms of HMPV While HMPV can be completely asymptomatic for young adults ranging from 5 to 40 years old, younger children and elders over 65 can get very sick. Symptoms for regular cases are not threatening and mostly mild, like - Coughing- Runny nose- Fever- Nasal congestion- Sore throat- Vomiting- Nausea- Diarrhea The conditions of severely infected patients can worsen, showing symptoms of pneumonia, asthma, and other bronchial diseases. In fewer cases, signs of middle ear infection have been found among patients with a prior compromised immune system. Read more: How to Keep Your Baby Comfortable and Healthy While Using Air Conditioner or Cooler Serious HMPV symptoms include: - Wheezing- Shortness of breath- Suffocacy- Fatigue- Bronchitis- Chest infection- Pneumonia- Asthma attack Mild symptoms usually disappear in two to five days. It is recommended to see a doctor if the symptoms persist for more than two weeks or worsen. Read more: How to Fix Your Sleep Routine: Know the Do's and Don'ts

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that has grabbed global attention due to its increasing spread and impact on public health. This virus is part of the same family as smallpox but is generally less severe. Let’s explore the various ways mpox can be transmitted from one individual to another. Direct Human-to-Human Transmission Close or Intimate Contact One of the primary ways mpox spreads is through close or intimate contact with an infected individual. The virus can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact with the rash, scabs, or bodily fluids of someone who has mpox. This contact can occur during various forms of intimate activities, including sex, kissing, or hugging. Pregnant individuals who contract mpox can also pass the virus to their fetus during pregnancy or to their newborn during and after birth. Additionally, prolonged face-to-face interactions, such as talking or breathing in close proximity to an infected person, can also facilitate the spread of the virus through respiratory secretions, including saliva, snot, and mucus. Read more: What is Mpox? How does it affect people? Touching Contaminated Objects and Surfaces Another significant mode of transmission for mpox is through contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have been contaminated by an infected person. This includes items like clothing, bedding, and towels that have not been properly disinfected. The virus can survive on these surfaces for extended periods, making it easy for someone else to contract the virus by touching these contaminated items. Respiratory Droplets While close physical contact is the most common way mpox spreads, the virus can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets. During face-to-face interactions, especially over a prolonged period, the virus can be expelled into the air through coughing, sneezing, or even talking. These droplets can then be inhaled by another person, leading to infection. However, it is important to note that the risk of transmission through respiratory droplets is lower compared to direct skin-to-skin contact. Sexual Transmission The mpox virus can be transmitted through sexual activity. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has had some cases where mpox transmission was linked with sexual contact, highlighting the importance of safe sexual practices in preventing the spread of mpox. Read more: Mpox: Common Signs and Symptoms Animal-to-Human Transmission Contact with Infected Animals Mpox is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can spread from animals to humans. The virus is endemic in certain regions of West and Central Africa, where it is naturally found in small wild animals, including rodents and primates. Humans can contract the virus through direct contact with these infected animals, their fluids, or waste. Activities such as hunting, trapping, or processing wild animals in these regions pose a higher risk of contracting mpox.

On August 14, The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox or Monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern, which is the highest alert the organization can decree. Since its earlier detection in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2022, Mpox has been spreading across continents contaminating and killing thousands of people. Recently, this deadly disease has been detected in Pakistan, sprouting fear in the neighboring South Asian countries. To stay safe, mass awareness should be raised against Mpox. What is Mpox or Monkeypox? Mpox or Monkeypox is a disease caused by the Mpox virus. When infected by this virus, people show symptoms similar to those of smallpox, like rashes, discolored and swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches, fever, and so on. Read more: Health ministry issues mpox alert: Vigilance at entry points; no cases detected in Bangladesh yet Quite rare in humans, the Mpox virus mostly affects rodents, like rats, and mice, and primates, like gorillas, and monkeys. However, for the last two years, a new variation has been alarmingly raising concerns about infecting humans and causing deaths. Mpox Variations Till now, only two variations of the Mpox virus have been found liable for human illness—Clade I and Clade II. According to researchers, the variations liable for the recent outbreak and the outbreak in 2022 are different. The global outbreak of 2022 that infected around 100,000 people was caused by the Clade II variation, whereas, Clade I is liable for the recent situation. The two mutant types share a few differences in terms of their ways of transmission, and symptoms. Read more: How to Keep Your Skin Healthy During Monsoon Clade I Clade I shows a pattern in its process of transmission, taking advantage of a person’s immunodeficiency, making them weak, and slowly pushing them towards death. The mortality rate among the Clade I victims ranges from 1% to 10%. As per reports, the victims have been mostly the inhabitants of Congo. However, the number of victims went up due to the rapid contamination among people in other areas of the world. Clade I is more frequent among children who are infected through contact with animals or other members of their families. Clade II Clade II is responsible for the 2022 outbreak of Mpox. The death rate of Clade II is low, counting only 1% to 4%. The severity of the illness is also more tolerable, causing rashes on a random part of the body mostly around the face and torso instead of the full body. Read more: Congo's humanitarian crisis helped mpox spiral again into a global health emergency How Did the Recent Variation of Mpox Spread? The transmission pathways of Mpox are diverse, including close personal contact, contact with contaminated materials, and interaction with infected animals. Clade II, has shown unique patterns of spread, which has raised new concerns and challenges for public health efforts. Here are some common modes of Transmission of Mpox virus. Close Personal Contact The primary mode of Mpox transmission is through close, personal contact with an infected individual. This includes direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s rashes, scabs, or bodily fluids. The virus can also spread through contact with respiratory secretions such as saliva or mucus. Intimate activities, such as sex, as well as prolonged face-to-face interactions, can facilitate the transmission of the virus. Read more: Pakistan's health ministry confirms a case of mpox but more tests are being done for its variant In the 2022 global outbreak of Clade IIb, the virus predominantly spread through sexual contact. This pattern of transmission underscores the importance of targeted public health messaging and interventions to prevent the further spread of the virus in at-risk populations. Contact with Contaminated Materials Mpox can also spread through contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have been contaminated by an infected person. Items like bedding, towels, clothing can harbor the virus if they are not properly disinfected. This mode of transmission highlights the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and ensuring that environments, where infected individuals have been, are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Read more: Comprehensive Guide to the Best Home Fitness Equipment in Bangladesh for 2024 Animal-to-Human Transmission Another significant route of Monkeypox transmission is through contact with infected animals. Mpox is endemic in certain wild animals in West and Central Africa, particularly rodents. People can contract the virus by hunting, trapping, or processing these animals, or through bites, scratches, or direct contact with an infected animal’s fluids or waste. While the risk of transmission from pets is low, close contact with an infected pet, such as petting, cuddling, or sharing sleeping spaces, could potentially spread the virus to humans. Recent Developments in Mpox Spread In recent outbreaks, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Clade I variant of the Mpox virus has shown an alarming trend of spreading through sexual contact.  Read more: Circadian Rhythm: How to Reset the Biological Master Clock Moreover, early evidence indicates that Clade I might possess certain properties that enhance its ability to spread from person to person more easily. This has raised concerns about the potential for more widespread outbreaks, particularly in regions with limited surveillance and healthcare infrastructure. Conclusion The recent variations of Mpox, particularly Clade II and Clade I, have shown concerning patterns of transmission.  The virus's ability to spread through close personal contact, contaminated materials, and interaction with infected animals highlights the importance of public awareness and targeted health interventions.  Read more: Cerebral Haemorrhage: Signs, Reasons, Treatment, and Prevention As the situation evolves, understanding the transmission pathways of Mpox or Monkeypox is essential for controlling the spread and protecting vulnerable populations.

In a heart-wrenching incident in Rajshahi, two baby sisters passed away within four days of each other after contracting an unidentified virus, as reported by medical professionals. The almost two-year-old younger sister, Muntaha Marisha, tragically died en route to the hospital last Wednesday, while her elder sister, four years and nine months old Muftaul Mashiya, passed away on Saturday afternoon during treatment at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH). The girls were the daughters of Manjur Rahman, a mathematics teacher at Rajshahi Cadet College, residing with his family in the college's quarters in Sarda. Physicians at RMCH initially suspected a viral infection but awaited confirmation pending laboratory results from samples sent to Dhaka for analysis. The girls' parents, Manjur and Poly Khatun, have been placed in RMCH's isolation ward. Read: Nipah Virus: Don’t Consume This If You Want to Be Safe Dr. Abu Hena Mostafa Kamal, an ICU physician at RMCH, mentioned that there is a suspicion of the Nipah virus, although the girls' parents refuted this possibility.  He noted that the children had consumed unwashed plums, which could potentially be linked to the Nipah virus or another viral agent. The definitive cause of death awaits the results of the samples sent for testing. Poly Khatun recounted the events leading to their illness, stating that their domestic help had given the girls unwashed plums from a tree on campus on the morning of February 13. The following day, Marisha developed a fever, exhibited repeated vomiting, and showed signs of severe dehydration. Despite being rushed to the Rajshahi Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Marisha died en route. Mashiya exhibited similar symptoms the next morning and, after initial treatment at the Upazila Health Complex and CMH, was transferred to RMCH, where she was admitted to the ICU.  Read: Nipah virus: Two patients from Manikganj die in Dhaka Both sisters displayed black spots on their bodies before their deaths, a symptom noted by their mother. RMCH physician Mostafa Kamal clarified that there have been no reported deaths from the Nipah virus in Rajshahi this year. However, he confirmed that a viral infection caused the sisters' deaths, emphasizing the rapid progression of their illness and the limited opportunity for treatment. The parents remain in hospital isolation as precautions continue. Read more: Ancient viruses can help fight cancer, scientists say

Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, has been a persistent health concern worldwide. Understanding the symptoms and causes of measles is crucial for individuals and communities to combat its spread effectively. In the wake of a recent measles outbreak in Europe, understanding the symptoms and causes of this highly contagious viral infection is more crucial than ever.  What is Measles? How Does It Affect People? Measles is characterised by fever, cough, and a distinctive rash. The virus responsible for measles is a paramyxovirus (known as rubeola), and its high contagiousness often leads to outbreaks, especially in areas with low vaccination rates. This contagious viral disease easily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.  While capable of affecting anyone, it predominantly targets children. Measles initiates in the respiratory tract and then disseminates throughout the body. As a highly contagious disease, it underscores the importance of preventive measures, with vaccination being the most effective way to shield against severe illness, complications, and potential fatalities. Read more: Foods that Help Relieve Nausea and Vomiting What are the Symptoms of Measles?  The symptoms of measles typically manifest 10–14 days after exposure to the virus, with a prominent rash being the most evident sign. Early symptoms persist for 4–7 days and include - A high fever- Runny nose - Cough - Red and watery eyes - Tiredness- White spots inside the cheeks, known as Koplik's spots  The characteristic rash emerges approximately 7–18 days post-exposure, starting on the face and upper neck, and gradually spreading to the hands and feet over about 3 days. This rash persists for 5–6 days before fading. Other measles symptoms may include - A sore throat- White spots in your mouth- Muscle pain- Sensitivity to light. Read more: Which Vitamins are Essential for Women? What are the Causes of Measles? The measles virus, belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, is renowned for its highly contagious nature. Spread primarily through respiratory droplets, it easily transmits from person to person. Measles is exceptionally contagious, with individuals at risk of contracting the virus even after an infected person has left the vicinity.  The virus can endure on surfaces and in the air for hours, posing a continual threat. Originating in the nose and throat, measles is transmitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, releasing infectious droplets into the air. These droplets, both airborne and on surfaces, remain contagious for several hours, facilitating the virus's easy transmission. Measles Health Risks The primary cause of death resulting from measles is often complications associated with the disease. These complications encompass various serious issues - Blindness- Encephalitis, an infection leading to brain swelling and potential brain damage- Severe diarrhea, accompanied by dehydration- Ear infections- Severe respiratory problems, including pneumonia.- In the case of a pregnant woman contracting measles, it poses a significant risk, endangering both the mother and potentially resulting in premature birth with a low birth weight for the baby. Read more: How to Protect Babies and Children from Dengue Fever Complications, often leading to fatalities, are more prevalent in children under 5 and adults over 30, especially those malnourished or with weakened immune systems, as measles itself can compromise the body's ability to defend against infections, rendering children exceptionally vulnerable.

The past two years have been a rollercoaster ride of uncertainty, and just when the world thought the situation of Coronavirus pandemic was under control, a new variant, JN.1, has surfaced. This article aims to dissect the symptoms, causes, and implications of JN.1, the new strain of COVID-19. What is JN.1? How Does it Affect People? JN.1, an Omicron subvariant, surfaced in September last year amid declining temperatures, showing heightened transmission rates. Stemming from BA.2.86 (also known as Pirola), JN.1 possesses an additional spike protein mutation crucial for SARS-CoV-2 cell interaction.  The World Health Organization (WHO) categorises JN.1 as a Variant of Interest (VOI), distinct from its precursor BA.2.86, due to its rapid spread. Recently identified in the United States, close monitoring is essential to comprehend and address the dynamics of this evolving COVID-19 variant. The rise in JN.1 cases aligns with a general surge in COVID-19 infections. Symptoms of JN.1 infection closely resemble those of earlier Omicron variants, with no apparent increase in severity. While there are hints of potential increased diarrhoea cases, concrete data supporting this observation is currently lacking. Continuous monitoring is essential to better understand the characteristics of this variant.  Read more: Bangladesh reports 53 more Covid-19 cases in 24hrs Is JN.1 More Transmissible? JN.1, a descendant in the Omicron lineage, appears to be more transmissible than its precursor, BA.2.86. The observed surge in case numbers indicates increased transmissibility. Several newer variants, including JN.1, exhibit mutations affecting the spike protein's binding strength to respiratory cells, potentially enhancing replication and immune evasion.  While it remains early to precisely gauge JN.1's transmissibility and immune escape compared to other Omicron variants, experts assert its notable virulence. Dr. Joseph Khabbaza from the Cleveland Clinic notes that the current strain seems to deliver a more potent impact than its predecessors.  Who is at High Risk of Infection?  Certain groups face a higher risk of contracting the easily transmissible virus. These include: - People aged 65 and above- Diabetic people- People with neurological disorders- People who have pre-existing health conditions like COPD, heart diseases, chronic kidney diseases, cystic fibrosis, and individuals suffering from liver ailments- Pregnant women- Smokers- People with a compromised or weak immune system- Healthcare workers- People who are not vaccinated or have not taken booster shots. Read more: COVID-19: Bangladesh reports 35 more cases in 24hrs What are the Symptoms and Causes of the JN.1 COVID-19 Variant? JN.1's increasing prevalence implies heightened contagiousness or improved evasion of immune defences, as per the CDC. Currently, there is no evidence indicating it induces more severe disease than other strains, despite potential transmission spikes. Symptoms associated with JN.1 seem comparable to those induced by other strains, encompassing a range such as  - Sore throat- Congestion- Runny nose- Cough- Fatigue- Headache- Muscle aches- Fever or chills- Loss of sense of taste or smell- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing- Nausea or vomiting- Diarrhoea The nature and intensity of symptoms typically rely more on an individual's overall health and immune condition rather than the specific variant causing the infection.  Read more: COVID-19: Bangladesh reports 28 more cases in 24hrs

Md. Babul Hossain, 38, a resident of Manikganj, succumbed to the Nipah virus recently. Just days prior, 27-year-old Lutfar Rahman from the same district died under similar circumstances. Although there was no official confirmation of Nipah virus in Lutfar's case, according to the Upazila Health and Family Planning Center, the situation has sparked panic. Not only for Manikganj, but it is a matter of concern for Bangladesh, given the vulnerability to this virus in recent years. It is imperative to acquire accurate knowledge about Nipah virus infection and take appropriate action to prevent its spread. To prevent infection, let's understand how the Nipah virus spreads and identify its sources. What is the Nipah Virus? Nipah virus, in short NiV, is one of many types of zoonotic viruses. A zoonotic virus refers to a virus that can be transmitted between vertebrates and humans. While the potential carriers of NiV are numerous, its presence has been observed primarily in pigs and bats. Specifically, the carrier of NiV is fruit bats of the genus Pteropus, commonly known as the flying foxes. Pteropus is among the largest species of bats globally. They are commonly found in Southeast Asia, India, South Asia, Australia, East Africa, and the Pacific Islands. Read more: After father-in-law, woman dies of ‘Nipah virus’ in Naogaon How is the Nipah Virus Spread? The essential genetic material in an animal's body is RNA or ribonucleic acid. NiV primarily infects the entire animal by targeting this RNA. Subsequently, when another animal comes into contact with the infected one, the viral RNA spreads to the healthy animal. The contact can be made through various mediums, such as - Direct contact with infected animals, such as bat blood, saliva, vomit, or feces, poses a risk. - Location of palm trees near yards, water wells, agricultural fields, or domestic animal shelters, can enhance the risks of contamination. - Consumption of food or water contaminated with body fluids of NiV infected animals, such as palm sap and water from wells contaminated by bats, or partially eaten fruits by bats, can also facilitate the transmission of Nipah virus. - Contact with an NiV infected person, involving exposure to blood, spit, sneezes, vomit, feces, or even respiratory droplets, is another route of Nipah virus transmission. Several incidents in Bangladesh and India proved that NiV is airborne and moderately contagious. Read more: Suspected Nipah virus patient dies in Barishal Most Vulnerable Communities to Nipah Virus Outbreaks While human-to-human transmission was not initially reported, this phenomenon is being increasingly observed, especially in Bangladesh and neighboring countries like India. Hospital workers caring for patients infected with Nipah virus, family members of patients, and individuals involved in palm juice harvesting are now at the highest risk.

Two people from Manikganj, who were infected with Nipah virus after consuming raw date juice, died in Dhaka while undergoing treatment.  The deceased were Babul Miah, 38, son of former union parishad member Mainuddin, and Lutfor Rahman, 27, son of Nazimuddin, hailing from Putail union of Manikganj’s Sadar upazila.  District Civil Surgeon Dr Mohammad Moazzem Ali Khan Chowdhury confirmed that Babul died after being infected with Nipah virus while Putail Union Parishad Chairman Jasim Uddin confirmed Lutfor’s death.       Read: COVID-19: Bangladesh reports 28 more cases in 24hrs  It was learnt from the civil surgeon's office that Babul was admitted to Manikganj 250-bed General Hospital with fever and headache on January 16. A day later, a team from Dhaka’s International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) came and did his medical checkup. On January 18, he was shifted to a private hospital in Dhaka when his condition worsened and subsequently it was detected that he was infected with Nipah virus.  Babul breathed his last while undergoing treatment in the private hospital last Saturday, the civil surgeon’s office said.  Local UP Chairman Jasim said Lutfor had been suffering from fever, headache and other complications after drinking raw date juice.  Though initially he took medicine from a local pharmacy, later he was hospitalized in Dhaka when his condition deteriorated, he said, adding that Lutfor died while undergoing treatment there on January 16.  Civil Surgeon Dr Moazzem said they had information on Babul’s death from the Nipah virus but are not aware of Lufor’s cause of death. Read: Dengue: Bangladesh reports zero death with 20 new cases in 24 hrs  According to icddr,b, consumption of raw date juice, contaminated with bat saliva or urine, causes Nipah virus.