Medical workers carry a patient into a hospital in New York, the United States, Dec. 13, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying/IANS)
Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated nationally with increases in some parts of the country…reports Asian Lite News
There have been at least 22 million flu illnesses, 250,000 hospitalizations, and 15,000 deaths from flu so far this season in the US, according to the latest data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated nationally with increases in some parts of the country.
Eight influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported during the latest week ending February 3, bringing the season total to 74 pediatric deaths, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the CDC data.
Over 11,000 patients were admitted to hospitals with flu in the latest week, the CDC data showed.
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine as long as influenza viruses are spreading.
Ample sleep is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly when combating a sinus infection. Ensuring a minimum of eight hours of sleep supports your immune system in its battle against the infection. Additionally, resting during the day and conserving energy aids in a quicker recovery from sinus infections…reports Dr. Babina N.M.
Sinus infections, often triggered by preceding illnesses such as the cold or flu, can be both disruptive and persistent. While these infections typically run their course in about a week, some individuals experience prolonged and intensified sinus issues, indicating chronic sinusitis. Seeking timely consultation with a sinus specialist becomes crucial in such cases. Complicating matters, common mistakes made during a sinus infection can exacerbate the condition. As the cold and flu season approaches, sinusitis becomes a prevalent concern for both adults and children, leading to sinus inflammation. Fortunately, natural remedies offer relief; however, it is essential to navigate self-care treatments cautiously, avoiding certain practices and approaching others with care. In this article, we explore the mistakes that can worsen sinus issues and provide guidance on managing them naturally.
Common Mistakes that Aggravate Sinus Infections
Common mistakes during sinus infections can inadvertently exacerbate symptoms and prolong discomfort. It’s crucial to be aware of these pitfalls to ensure effective self-care during sinusitis.
Not Using a Humidifier
Sinus infections often worsen in colder seasons when the air becomes dry. Winter’s chilly and dry conditions not only impact the skin but also lead to the drying out of nasal passages, exacerbating sinus discomfort. To address this, consider using a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air. This helps prevent your sinuses from becoming excessively dry and irritated, providing relief from discomfort.
Excessive Use of Nasal Spray
While over-the-counter nasal sprays provide temporary relief from sinus infection pressure, prolonged and improper usage can have adverse effects. The main chemical in these sprays may contribute to worsening sinus infections. If your sinus infection persists beyond a week, it is crucial to consult with an ENT specialist to ensure appropriate management.
Insufficient Sleep
Ample sleep is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly when combating a sinus infection. Ensuring a minimum of eight hours of sleep supports your immune system in its battle against the infection. Additionally, resting during the day and conserving energy aids in a quicker recovery from sinus infections.
Inadequate Hydration
Staying well-hydrated is crucial when dealing with a sinus infection. Increased water intake supports mucus production, helping to keep the mucus thin and easier to expel. Proper hydration during a sinus infection contributes to relieving congestion and facilitating better breathing.
Minimize Sinus Irritants
Sinus discomfort isn’t solely linked to dry air; various factors like seasonal allergies, fragrances, smoke, and airborne particles can exacerbate sinus issues, particularly during an infection. While you can’t control all environmental factors, ceasing the use of perfumes or quitting smoking can lead to noticeable relief. The toxins in smoke can aggravate sinusitis, making it crucial to minimize exposure for improved sinus health.
Effective Home Remedies for Sinusitis Relief
Sinusitis can often be alleviated using natural remedies, some of which might be familiar advice passed down through generations. These approaches work to calm irritated sinus passages, promoting better mucus flow and providing relief from nasal congestion.
Relieve Sinus Congestion with Steam
One of the most effective at-home remedies for sinus infections involves warming and moisturizing your sinus passageways. Inhaling steam is a soothing method that clears your sinuses.
Simply stand in the shower or sit in the bathroom while the shower is running. Alternatively, place a warm washcloth over your nose and cheeks as you lie on your bed.
For a potent steam treatment, boil a pot of water, remove it from the heat, and put a towel over your head. Bend over the pot to inhale the steam, keeping your eyes closed and maintaining a safe distance from the hot water. As the liquid cools, adjust your proximity for comfort.
Enhance the experience by adding a drop or two of essential oils; eucalyptus oil can aid in nasal decongestion, while lavender or chamomile essential oil brings a calming effect.
Yoga to Drain Mucus
If you find yourself amid a sinus infection, certain supported yoga poses can provide relief without exerting undue pressure on your sinuses. Poses like Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani) and Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana) are beneficial. These poses promote gentle inversion, helping to drain mucus from the sinus passageways and potentially alleviating discomfort associated with sinusitis. Engage in these poses mindfully and listen to your body for a soothing experience during a sinus infection.
Nasal Irrigation for Relief
To alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent sinus infections, consider nasal irrigation as a beneficial method. Nasal irrigation involves using a saltwater solution to flush out germs and congested mucus from the sinus passages. It’s also known as nasal wash, nasal douche, or lavage, and often involves a tool like a neti pot.
Studies, including one featured in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggest that irrigation can improve sinus-related symptoms. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution by using distilled or sterile water to avoid the rare risk of introducing parasites into the sinus passageways. If using tap water, ensure it’s sterilized by boiling for 3 to 5 minutes and then cooling before nasal irrigation.
Eat More Vegetables and Fruits
Enhance your sinus health naturally by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet. These nutrient-rich foods, such as onions, apples, green tea, and red wine, contain powerful antioxidants like quercetin. This natural plant component serves as an antioxidant, and specifically for sinus issues, it has the remarkable ability to stabilize cells that release histamine.
Histamine is the chemical responsible for stimulating mucus secretion in the sinuses. By incorporating quercetin-rich foods into your meals, you can potentially help manage sinus problems by regulating histamine release and promoting a healthier sinus environment.
Embrace a Dairy-Free Lifestyle
In some individuals, the proteins present in dairy products, namely casein and whey, might act as potential triggers for allergies and excessive mucus production, potentially exacerbating sinus issues. If you experience recurrent sinusitis, consider eliminating all dairy from your diet to observe if it positively impacts your condition. Fortunately, a variety of delicious dairy alternatives, such as cashews, almonds, hemp, and oat milk products, are readily available.
Final Words
As winter approaches, sinus infections can be challenging. It’s essential to be mindful of your sinus health. By adopting these simple natural strategies, you can enhance your well-being during the colder months and promote sinus comfort.
The number of weekly flu hospital admissions continued to increase, reports Xinhua news agency…reports Asian Lite News
There have been at least 1,600 deaths, 2.6 million illnesses and 26,000 hospitalisations from flu so far this season in the US, according to the latest estimates of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Seasonal influenza activity continued to increase in most parts of the country, with the southeast and south-central areas of the country reporting the highest levels of activity, according to the CDC weekly review.
The number of weekly flu hospital admissions continued to increase, reports Xinhua news agency.
Four influenza-associated paediatric deaths were reported during the week ending December 2, bringing the 2023-2024 season total to 12 paediatric deaths, according to CDC. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. In the US, flu season usually occurs in the fall and winter. While influenza viruses spread year-round, most of the time flu activity peaks between December and February.
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PM Modi was briefed that India has been witnessing a slight rise in new cases with average daily cases reported as 888….reports Asian Lite News
Amid the spike in influenza cases in the country and the rise of Covid-19 cases in the past 2 weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting to assess in terms of preparedness of health infrastructure and logistics, the status of the vaccination campaign, stated an official release.
A comprehensive presentation was made covering the global Covid-19 situation including the rising cases in India by the Secretary, of Health, MoHFW. PM Modi was briefed that India has been witnessing a slight rise in new cases with average daily cases reported as 888 and weekly positivity reported as 0.98 percent in the week ending March 22, 2023. However, 1.08 lakh daily average cases have been reported globally during the same week.
“The action taken on the directions given by Prime Minister during the last Covid-19 review held on December 22, 2022, was also briefed. He was informed that the availability and prices of 20 main Covid Drugs, 12 other drugs, 8 buffer drugs, and 1 influenza drug are being monitored,” it read.
A mock drill was also conducted on December 27, 2022, in 22,000 hospitals, and many remedial measures were taken by hospitals thereafter.
The Prime Minister was apprised of the influenza situation in the country, particularly with respect to a higher number of cases of H1N1 and H3N2 being noted in the last few months.
PM Modi directed officials to enhance the Whole Genome Sequencing of Positive Samples with the designated INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratories.
“This will support tracking of newer variants if any, and timely response,” said PM Modi.
He also emphasized on Covid appropriate behaviour including wearing masks in hospital premises by patients, health professionals, and health workers.
He also stressed that wearing of masks is advisable when senior citizens and those with co-morbidities visit crowded areas.
He directed that effective monitoring of IRI/SARI cases, and testing for influenza, SARS-CoV-2 and Adenovirus be followed up with States.
Further, Prime Minister stressed the need to ensure the availability of required Drugs and Logistics for influenza and Covid-19 across Health Facilities along with the availability of sufficient beds and for health human resources.
He highlighted that the Covid-19 pandemic is far from over and there is a need to monitor the status across the country on regular basis.
The PM advised to continue focusing on the 5-fold strategy of Test-Track-Treat-Vaccination and Covid Appropriate Behaviour, enhance Lab Surveillance, and testing of all Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases. Mock drills should be conducted regularly to ensure that our hospitals are ready for all exigencies.
Prime Minister exhorted the community to follow respiratory hygiene & to adhere to Covid appropriate behavior in crowded public places.
The meeting was attended by PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to PM, Dr. V K Paul, Member (Health) NITI Aayog; Rajiv Gauba, Cabinet Secretary; Secretary, Health & Family Welfare; Secretary, Pharmaceuticals and Secretary, Biotechnology; DG, ICMR, Amit Khare, Advisor, PMO along with other senior officials. (ANI)
People walk out of the Louvre Museum aimd a heatwave in Paris, France, July 13, 2022. (Xinhua/Gao Jing/IANS)
As concerns over the spread of RSV increase and Covid-19 remains a threat, the 2022-2023 influenza (flu) season has gotten off to an early start in the Europe…reports Asian Lite News
European health leaders have voiced their concern over a potential surge in respiratory virus infections across the region this winter, and called for better protection of the population, especially the most vulnerable.
As concerns over the spread of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) increase and Covid-19 remains a threat, the 2022-2023 influenza (flu) season has gotten off to an early start in the European region, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a joint statement issued by European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides, World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge and Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) Andrea Ammon.
“The World Health Organization Europe region is currently experiencing increasing circulation of influenza and RSV. Together with Covid-19, these viruses are expected to have a high impact on our health services and populations this winter,” the statement said.
It highlighted the current influenza viruses (A and B), which are rising in circulation in different parts of the region, among all age groups. Those aged 55 years and older are particularly vulnerable. They have accounted for almost half of all reported influenza hospital admissions since October.
Another cause for concern is the spike in RSV, a common respiratory virus that causes bronchitis or pneumonia and can be fatal, particularly in infants and the elderly. RSV cases have “also been on the rise since October, with some 20 countries and areas experiencing intensified RSV activity.”
While case rates, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and death rates are all currently low compared to the previous 12 months, there are concerns that “this situation could change as new variants emerge, and the disease continues to strain healthcare resources.”
“With the continued impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the circulation and health impact of other respiratory pathogens, it is challenging to predict how the new winter period will develop,” the statement said.
The leaders also recommend that clinicians consider early antiviral treatments and prophylaxis for influenza, RSV and Covid-19 for those at risk of severe disease in order to prevent severe outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.
“We cannot say it enough: vaccination saves lives. It decreases the chances of being infected and reduces the risk of severe illness from Covid-19 and seasonal influenza,” the document said.
Pregnant women are eligible for both a free flu and Covid-19 booster vaccine this winter.Getting your winter vaccines in pregnancy is just as important as ever
Pregnancy can be an exciting, yet vulnerable time for any woman, but Covid-19 fears and isolation have added an extra strain. It feels like it is all behind us now, but viruses like Covid-19 and flu can spread more easily in winter when we all mix more indoors, so healthcare experts are advising expectant mums to make sure they get their vaccines.
Over a million babies were born in the UK during the height of the pandemic. We talked to three mums about their decisions on vaccination and their experiences of having a baby during the pandemic.
Samira
DR RAHIM
“I was lucky enough to have my baby in the latter part of the pandemic,” says Paediatrician and mum of three Dr Kiran Rahim, “Lots of things felt weird and strange at a time of happiness, like my husband not being allowed in for a scan. Many services like drop-in weight clinics and breastfeeding support were cancelled due to Covid restrictions. The worst part was the lack of contact with health visitors.”
“I had my two Covid vaccines and then a booster and a flu jab while pregnant”, says Dr Rahim. “And as a frontline healthcare worker, I am eligible for Covid-19 booster and flu jab this winter which I have just had, whilst still breastfeeding. Both immunisations are safe at any stage of pregnancy, and many millions of doses have been administered worldwide to pregnant women.”
While the vaccines are safe, there are risks from both viruses during pregnancy.
“Complications from Covid and flu while pregnant can be very dangerous for both mother and baby. In the very worst cases, they can lead to death or stillbirth,” says Dr Rahim. “There are new variants of Covid all the time, it’s unpredictable and the risks are still out there. The flu virus can also change each year, so it’s important to boost your protection to both viruses before winter.”
“This is not the time to be complacent,” says Dr Rahim. Falling ill presents additional risks while pregnant. Vaccines are our best line of defence, which are freely available on the NHS and easy to get.
Tanviha
TANVIHA
Unfortunately, trainee clinical scientist Tanviha Quaraishi-Akhtar experienced some of these complications first-hand. Tanviha had an emergency C-section after falling seriously ill with Covid, giving birth at just 33 weeks. She was so unwell with Covid that she couldn’t hold her premature son before he was rushed to the neonatal intensive care unit.
“Just a week later, I was in ICU alone, in a medically induced coma. I almost died and was kept unconscious for over two months. I finally met and held my son when he was 12 weeks old. It is so sad to think I missed out on these important early months. Had the vaccine been available whilst I was pregnant, I would have definitely accepted it, and my experience could have been avoided”.
As a scientist, Tanviha believes it’s so important for people in the Asian community to make sure they get their information about vaccines from a reliable source like the NHS website – there’s far too much misinformation out there and you shouldn’t trust everything you read on social media.
Samira
SAMIRA
“I got the Covid vaccine while pregnant last year, and I’d do it again,” says influencer and blogger Samira Ahmed. “I was really sick with the Delta variant in my first trimester and was lethargic for months after recovering. I was so worried that getting sick had harmed my baby. I wanted to avoid catching it again and got vaccinated – it was a load off my mind.”
Samira also makes sure her four-year-old gets the flu vaccine as a nasal spray. “I don’t want him to miss out on school and vaccines make these things avoidable.” I also had him vaccinated each autumn when he was a pre-schooler.
A UK study found that pregnant women admitted to a hospital with Covid infection having received 2 or 3 vaccine doses, were less likely to have more severe disease or require intensive care admission than women who had not been vaccinated. However, uptake of vaccines is lower in Asian communities – last winter, for example, just 29% of Pakistani pregnant women had the flu jab.
Studies show that protection provided by Covid-19 vaccines decreases over time, even if you’ve had previous doses of the vaccine. So, it’s important you ‘top up’ your immunity this autumn. Pregnancy alters how the body handles infections such as flu, which is why you are advised to get the flu vaccine too. It’s safe to get both vaccines together. They do not contain live viruses and cannot infect the baby. Find out how to book your vaccine appointments now at your GP surgery, or local pharmacy or check with your maternity service. Visit nhs.uk/wintervaccinations
Free flu and Covid-19 booster vaccine for pregnant womenDr KiranSamiraSamiraTanviha
To distinguish the two, there are a few notable differences to keep in mind. Here are four key differences between a cold and the flu…writes Dr Agam Vora
Cases of common cold and flu (influenza) are on the rise. However, because both viral respiratory illnesses cause similar, often overlapping symptoms, distinguishing between them can be difficult.
Dr Agam Vora, Chest Physician, Advanced Multi Specialty Hospitals, Vile Parle (West). Assoc. Hon. & In-Charge, Department of Chest & TB, Dr R.N. Cooper Municipal General Hospital said, “With seasonal changes and sudden shifts in the weather during the monsoon season, we witness a rise of various viral infections ranging from the flu to common cold. It is especially important to recognizethe differences across conditions to effectively treat them and speed up the process of recovery. Further, to avoid these seasonal infections, understanding and adopting preventive measures are also important to keep people healthyand protected.”
It is critical for individuals to be able to quickly determine whether they are suffering from a cold or the flu so that they can seek the appropriate medical attention. To distinguish the two, there are a few notable differences to keep in mind. Here are four key differences between a cold and the flu:
— While both spread easily from person to person through the air, personal contact and bodily discharge (like saliva or from fluids from coughing or sneezing), they are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by different strains or types of the influenza virus specifically, while a common cold can be derived from multiple viruses, the most common one being rhinovirus. To understand if an individual is experiencing the flu, consulting a doctor is recommended. They will assess one’s symptoms and might recommend getting tested to determine the nature of the virus.
— Symptoms common to both conditions include body aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, cough and nasal congestion or a runny or stuffy nose. However, the flu typically involves high grade fever as well (often 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), unlike a cold. Another distinguishing symptom is chills (shaking or shivering), which are common with influenza but not with colds. And overall, cold symptoms are usually milder than flu symptoms.
— There are also differences in the onset of conditions, with a cold’s symptoms starting more gradually, while the flu’s symptoms begin more abruptly and rapidly escalate. Cold symptoms tend to improve after a week. In the case of the flu, it can gradually improve over two to five days, but effects can also last over a week.
— The flu can also lead to more serious complications when compared to a cold. Influenza can become a serious condition leading to hospitalization, especially amongst at-risk individuals with comorbidities, including lung or heart problems, diabetes or hypertension. , , Lung infections or pneumonia are also associated complications.
Understanding these distinctions is critical for guiding needed care. At the same time, as the flu season begins this year, it is critical to remember that there are preventive measures that can be taken. As a result, recognising the steps to avoid these conditions this season can be beneficial.
As per the WHO, vaccination is one of the key steps to prevent flu infections. This is recommended annually as immune protection from the flu shot can decline over time. Annual shots, in accordance with WHO recommendations, enhance protection against the evolving influenza virus, which changes its structure every year. Meanwhile, there is no vaccine against the common cold, but maintaining good hygiene is key to avoid it.
Dr. Jejoe Karan Kumar, Director, Medical Affairs at Abbott said, “By educating the population on the need for a range of preventive measures against respiratory illnesses, including vaccination, we can empower people to protect themselves and others from such conditions. This can prevent unnecessary complications down the line, particularly for children, the elderly and individuals with underlying conditions.”
Other common preventive measures for both the flu and the common cold, in addition to influenza vaccination, include washing hands more frequently (for at least 20 seconds), limiting close contact with anyone who has cold or flu symptoms, and avoiding touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Take precautions to avoid infection this season, but also be aware of the warning signs so you can seek appropriate care in a timely manner.
Cases of common cold and flu (influenza) are on the rise. However, because both viral respiratory illnesses cause similar, often overlapping symptoms, distinguishing between them can be difficult.
Dr Agam Vora, Chest Physician, Advanced Multi Specialty Hospitals, Vile Parle (West). Assoc. Hon. & In-Charge, Department of Chest & TB, Dr R.N. Cooper Municipal General Hospital said, “With seasonal changes and sudden shifts in the weather during the monsoon season, we witness a rise of various viral infections ranging from the flu to common cold. It is especially important to recognizethe differences across conditions to effectively treat them and speed up the process of recovery. Further, to avoid these seasonal infections, understanding and adopting preventive measures are also important to keep people healthyand protected.”
It is critical for individuals to be able to quickly determine whether they are suffering from a cold or the flu so that they can seek the appropriate medical attention. To distinguish the two, there are a few notable differences to keep in mind. Here are four key differences between a cold and the flu:
— While both spread easily from person to person through the air, personal contact and bodily discharge (like saliva or from fluids from coughing or sneezing), they are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by different strains or types of the influenza virus specifically, while a common cold can be derived from multiple viruses, the most common one being rhinovirus. To understand if an individual is experiencing the flu, consulting a doctor is recommended. They will assess one’s symptoms and might recommend getting tested to determine the nature of the virus.
— Symptoms common to both conditions include body aches, fatigue, headache, sore throat, cough and nasal congestion or a runny or stuffy nose. However, the flu typically involves high grade fever as well (often 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), unlike a cold. Another distinguishing symptom is chills (shaking or shivering), which are common with influenza but not with colds. And overall, cold symptoms are usually milder than flu symptoms.
— There are also differences in the onset of conditions, with a cold’s symptoms starting more gradually, while the flu’s symptoms begin more abruptly and rapidly escalate. Cold symptoms tend to improve after a week. In the case of the flu, it can gradually improve over two to five days, but effects can also last over a week.
— The flu can also lead to more serious complications when compared to a cold. Influenza can become a serious condition leading to hospitalization, especially amongst at-risk individuals with comorbidities, including lung or heart problems, diabetes or hypertension. , , Lung infections or pneumonia are also associated complications.
Understanding these distinctions is critical for guiding needed care. At the same time, as the flu season begins this year, it is critical to remember that there are preventive measures that can be taken. As a result, recognising the steps to avoid these conditions this season can be beneficial.
As per the WHO, vaccination is one of the key steps to prevent flu infections. This is recommended annually as immune protection from the flu shot can decline over time. Annual shots, in accordance with WHO recommendations, enhance protection against the evolving influenza virus, which changes its structure every year. Meanwhile, there is no vaccine against the common cold, but maintaining good hygiene is key to avoid it.
Dr. Jejoe Karan Kumar, Director, Medical Affairs at Abbott said, “By educating the population on the need for a range of preventive measures against respiratory illnesses, including vaccination, we can empower people to protect themselves and others from such conditions. This can prevent unnecessary complications down the line, particularly for children, the elderly and individuals with underlying conditions.”
Other common preventive measures for both the flu and the common cold, in addition to influenza vaccination, include washing hands more frequently (for at least 20 seconds), limiting close contact with anyone who has cold or flu symptoms, and avoiding touching one’s eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. Take precautions to avoid infection this season, but also be aware of the warning signs so you can seek appropriate care in a timely manner.
Israeli authorities have detected an outbreak of the pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in about 107,000 turkeys, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development said…reports Asian Lite News
The infected turkeys were found in a farm in the village of Aviel near the coastal town of Caesarea, according to the Ministry.
This hotspot joins two coops in the northern village of Ram On, where 62,500 infected turkeys were detected on Tuesday, and dozens of coops with infected chickens and turkeys in northern and southern Israel detected in recent weeks, reports Xinhua news agency.
The outbreaks resulted in the killing of hundreds of thousands of chickens and caused an egg shortage in Israel.
“Ministry workers continue to work around the clock to eradicate the spread of the virus, and continue to maintain human and animal health,” said Agriculture Minister Oded Forer.
The contagious H5N1 bird flu can also infect other animals such as cats, pigs, and tigers, and in rare cases humans as well.
In the lead up to the festive period, the ‘We are the NHS’ campaign shines a light on the incredible life-saving work of South Asian frontline workers. The campaign features real NHS workers, who are proud to showcase what it is about their role they love the most, and the opportunities available from a career in the NHS. The campaign shines a light on some of the most in-demand roles in the NHS; all varied, exciting and challenging in equal measure. Nurses, allied health professionals and healthcare support workers touch the lives of thousands, providing expertise, care and compassion when it matters most
Christmas is an exciting time of year but as the weather gets colder, more and more people are admitted to hospital between now and the new year. Every winter, countless people across the country fall sick and miss out on festive fun; from presents under the tree to spending time with loved ones. Luckily for them, a dedicated NHS workforce is always at hand to provide care and support, especially for those unable to spend the holidays at home.
Now in its fourth consecutive year, the ‘We are the NHS’ campaign is back to champion the extraordinary work of nurses, allied health professionals and healthcare support workers – and inspire a new generation to embark on a career in the health service. Recruitment for the NHS has never been more vital. COVID-19 increased interest in the incredibly rewarding careers available within the NHS with 5.1 million people accessing the NHS careers website during the pandemic; a 41% increase compared to the same period in 2019.
Orthoptic Casualty Lead Rahilah Bukhari from University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
The ‘We are the NHS’ campaign features real NHS workers, who are proud to showcase what it is about their role they love the most, and the opportunities available from a career in the NHS. The campaign shines a light on some of the most in-demand roles in the NHS; all varied, exciting and challenging in equal measure. Nurses, allied health professionals and healthcare support workers touch the lives of thousands, providing expertise, care and compassion when it matters most.
One such role is that of Orthoptic Casualty Lead Rahilah Bukhari from University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, who works hard to provide exceptional eye care, which includes attending eye casualty, completing all necessary investigations, and liaising with the Senior Eye Casualty Doctor to determine the treatment and clinical outcome for the patient. “Christmas is an exhilarating time of the year for both children and adults, but it is also a time when eye injuries can occur. Every year, eye teams everywhere treat eye injuries caused by Christmas trees and decorations, fireworks, toys and bottle corks amongst other things. Luckily, for those who find themselves in the eye casualty department, a dedicated NHS eye workforce is at hand to provide sight-saving care and support.”
Healthcare Support Worker Urwa Mogul, from Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Trust, says that working over the holidays can get busy but working as part of a supporting team helps her to manage things. “It can be hard looking after patients in the ward, especially when you know all they want to do is be at home with their loved ones,” says Urwa. “But you really are making such a huge difference being there for them during these times.” Despite how busy things get in the ward, Urwa and her team still manage to inject some festive fun into their schedules. “I don’t celebrate Christmas myself but I do get excited when it comes tHo Secret Santa! It’s always such a great laugh between our team,” she says lightheartedly.
Registered Nurse Varsha Carim, from Guy’s and St Thomas NHS Trust appreciates the diversity of the NHS, particularly around the festive period. “I enjoy communicating with people from different cultures and learning about what this special time means to them,” says Varsha. “It’s fascinating to see the different ways people celebrate and make the extra effort to ensure all patients feel comfortable. There is so much diversity in the NHS and being multilingual helps me provide patients with the holistic care they deserve.”
From eye casualty to healthcare support, there are many fulfilling roles available within the NHS that allow you to make a real difference. “There are so many different careers that you can take with the NHS,” says Rahilah. “There are face to face roles but also crucial background roles. If you’re looking for work-life balance, you can find that with the NHS. Most importantly, there is ample opportunity to progress both personally and professionally – the NHS offers it all.”
To learn more about the campaign, search #WeAreTheNHS or visit NHS Careers to discover the range of roles available.
Healthcare Support Worker Urwa Mogul, from Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Trust
Orthoptic Casualty Lead Rahilah Bukhari from University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
Ginger is an evergreen spice and is luckily a prominent ingredient in Indian cooking…writes Puja Gupta.
The sudden fluctuation of temperature during the monsoon season makes us more susceptible to common cold and fever. The monsoon season is known for inviting disease spreading germs and viruses which can take a toll on our health. Indians anyway love tea, and the monsoons are a perfect time for many of us to have a cup (or two) of hot masala herb chai. Traditionally herbs have been our go to for curing and preventing flu, and an herb infused tea has always been our first choice for combatting seasonal ills. Herbs advised by our grandparents, have inculcated in our minds the medicinal values of herb infused beverages.
Kavita Devgan, Nutritionist, Tata Tea Gold Care lists the herbs that are perfect to add to your cups to make it more wholesome and to bid adieu to the monsoon induced flu.
Mulethi
Mulethi also known as liquorice has traditionally been used to aid cold, cough, boost immunity and strengthen the liver. It helps to loosen up the phlegm which is the root cause for chest congestion, cold and cough. The herb also protects our body from foreign microbes, pollutants and allergies by boosting our immunity system. Mulethi has active compounds which help relieve constipation, improve the digestion and help us score a healthy gut.
Brahmi
Brahmi is one of the most popular Ayurvedic ingredient. It is also known as water hyssop or Indian pennywort and helps create a protective shield of vital nutrients and antioxidants in the body that helps in fighting infection and diseases. Brahmi is beneficial in relieving stress and anxiety as well.
Tulsi
Almost every household has this herb plant. It is rich in vitamin C and zinc. Plus it is anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and its combination of phytochemicals, bioflavonoids and anti-oxidants compounds, such as rosmarinic acid (a very good anti-microbial agent) helps combat respiratory illnesses ranging from a simple cold and cough to severe bronchitis and asthma.
Ginger
Ginger is an evergreen spice and is luckily a prominent ingredient in Indian cooking. The herb is loaded with vitamin B6 and has various medicinal values due to the multiple antioxidants it delivers. It is an effective immunity booster too due to the presence of compound Gingerol.
Cardamom
Cardamom is one of the most expensive spice in the world and its distinctive flavor complements both sweet and savoury dishes equally well. It delivers manganese, which is known to help boost virus-fighting cells in the body and is rich in multiple antioxidants and minerals too. Plus, it is a gut strengthener and helps relieve digestive problems.
