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World Bank launches climate and health initiative

The USD 34 billion health portfolio, active in over 100 countries, will focus on enhancing surveillance and early warning systems, climate-proofing health facilities, and strengthening the capacity of health workers…reports Asian Lite News

In an initiative announced at COP28, the World Bank unveiled its Climate and Health Program to combat the escalating health risks triggered by climate change in low- and middle-income countries.

According to a press release by the World Bank, with projections indicating at least 21 million additional deaths by 2050 due to climate-related health hazards, the program aims to fortify health systems, particularly in vulnerable regions of sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

The initiative involves comprehensive strategies, including assessing climate and health vulnerabilities, bolstering investments in resilient health systems, and mobilizing funds for immediate action.

The World Bank emphasizes the urgency of addressing five key health risks–extreme heat, stunting, diarrhoea, malaria, and dengue–that could claim millions of lives within the next three decades.

Mamta Murthi, Vice President for Human Development at the World Bank, highlighted the program’s significance in breaking the cycle of ill health and poverty caused by climate change.

Murthi said, “Climate change amplifies health risks, creating a cycle of ill health and poverty with far-reaching consequences for human capital development. Through the Climate and Health Program, the World Bank will use its knowledge and financing to help countries address health risks stemming from climate change, work across related sectors, and bring together partners to maximize financing and harmonize investments and actions.”

The Climate and Health Program seeks to generate evidence, increase financing for tailored solutions, and forge strong partnerships with entities such as the World Health Organization, Gavi, The Global Fund, and foundations.

Notably, the World Bank will co-convene a Development Bank Working Group for Climate-Health Finance to align and maximize investments.

The USD 34 billion health portfolio, active in over 100 countries, will focus on enhancing surveillance and early warning systems, climate-proofing health facilities, and strengthening the capacity of health workers.

As the climate crisis continues to impact the well-being of global populations, the World Bank’s commitment to addressing this paramount health challenge underscores the need for immediate, collective action.

The success of the Climate and Health Program hinges on today’s decisions, shaping the health outcomes of current and future generations. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Bangladesh Secures $1B World Bank Loan

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Health Kerala Tech Lite

Aster Medcity Elevates Neurocare with Top-tier Teams

Aster Medcity unveils advanced Neuropathology and Diagnostic Neuroradiology teams, a milestone in delivering state-of-the-art brain, spine, and nerve care…reports Asian Lite News

Aster Medcity, a beacon of healthcare innovation, proudly introduces its fully-fledged Neuropathology and Diagnostic Neuroradiology teams, led by the esteemed Dr. Vani Santhosh and Dr. Harish Babu, respectively.

This groundbreaking initiative marks a pivotal moment in the hospital’s unwavering commitment to delivering state-of-the-art services in brain, spine, and nerve care.

The spectrum of services spans advanced neurosurgery, spine surgery, neurology, neuroradiology, neuropsychology, and neuro-rehabilitation, catering to patients of all ages.

Dr. Dilip Panikar, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery at Aster Medcity Kochi, expressed, “With the introduction of dedicated neuropathology services, Aster Medcity continues to set benchmarks in healthcare, striving to enhance and revolutionize neurological services in Kerala and beyond.”

At the helm of the neuropathology team is Dr. Vani Santhosh, a former Senior Professor of Neuropathology at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS). Dr. Santhosh’s groundbreaking research in neuro-oncology has significantly advanced the understanding of the biology of glioblastoma (GBM) and other gliomas.

Joining the ranks is Dr. Harish Babu, a distinguished Neuroradiologist specializing in diagnosing brain scans, who now leads the Neuroradiology Team. Dr. Babu emphasised, “Neuroradiology plays a pivotal role in neurosurgery by providing detailed anatomical and functional information that guides surgeons in planning and executing precise and effective interventions for various neurologic conditions.”

To augment neuropathology capabilities, Aster Medcity is launching a new center for Neuropathology. This center will process specimens from various Aster hospitals, leveraging the expertise of the accomplished neuropathology team in Kochi.

Dr. Shyam Sundar S, Senior Consultant – Neurosurgery, Aster Medcity, Kochi, highlighted, “The collaboration between neurosurgeons, diagnostic neuroradiologists, and neuropathologists ensures a comprehensive understanding of neurological conditions, leading to more accurate diagnoses, better treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.”

The Global Centre of Excellence in Neurosciences integrates departments such as Neurology, Parkinson and Movement Disorders Centre, Acute Stroke Care Centre, Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy Care Centre, Spine Care Centre, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and Neuropsychology. Aster Medcity is poised to advance neurological care through these integrated efforts, setting new standards in healthcare excellence.

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Food Lite Blogs Parenting

Risks of High Sugar Content in Kids’ Cereals

Artificial colors and flavors, commonly found in children’s cereals, have raised questions about their safety. Some studies hint at a potential connection between certain artificial colors and an increased risk of cancer…reports Asian Lite News

Morning rituals and healthy breakfasts together form a tradition we pass down to our kids. But here is the twist: those seemingly virtuous cereals might contain ingredients with damaging effects that you might not be aware of. Could your child’s apparent healthy morning bowl be hiding cancer-causing ingredients?

Read ahead to know more as Nupuur Patil, a nutritionist and fitness expert breaks down cereal Ingredients, which is a common breakfast in many households. 

Acrylamide: A Hidden Threat

Acrylamide, a potentially carcinogenic (cancer-causing) compound, is formed during the cooking process of certain foods, especially those high in starch, like cereals. Acrylamide is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), indicating its potential carcinogenicity to humans. This underscores the importance of understanding how our food is processed and choosing products that minimize exposure to such compounds.

The Sugar Dilemma: A Sweet Conundrum

One of the primary concerns associated with kids’ cereals is the high level of added sugars. Studies suggest a possible link between excessive sugar consumption and an elevated risk of certain cancers. Refined sugars contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance, creating an environment conducive to cancer cell development. Parents are, therefore, urged to be vigilant about sugar content, opting for cereals with minimal added sugars or, better yet, exploring natural sweeteners.

Artificial Colors and Flavors: A Potential Culprit

Artificial colors and flavors, commonly found in children’s cereals, have raised questions about their safety. Some studies hint at a potential connection between certain artificial colors and an increased risk of cancer. Commonly used synthetic food colorants (SFCs), such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, are under scrutiny. Choosing cereals with natural ingredients and fewer artificial additives can be a step towards reducing potential health risks.

Empowering Parents: Making Informed Choices

While the link between kids’ cereals and cancer is not conclusively proven, parents can empower themselves by making informed choices. Opting for cereals with minimal added sugars, natural ingredients, and no artificial additives, as well as being mindful of GMOs and pesticides, can contribute to a healthier diet for children.

As parents, our choices play a pivotal role in shaping our children’s health. By staying informed and making conscious decisions about the cereals we provide, we can contribute to a healthier future for our kids. Prioritizing whole, nutrient-rich foods and minimizing exposure to potential carcinogens is a significant step towards fostering well-being and safeguarding our children’s health.

ALSO READ-Add protein supplements into your fitness regime

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Health Lite Blogs

Lack of Awareness Puts Lives at Risk

In simple terms, the sooner the blockage causing the stroke is cleared, the less damage occurs. Among the primary treatments for stroke is Thrombolytic therapy, also known as clot-busting therapy…writes Dr Pawan Ojha

A stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of your brain is stopped or reduced, leading to a rapid death of brain cells. In stroke care, the term “Golden Hour” refers to the critical 4.5 hours immediately following the onset of stroke symptoms. Acting swiftly within this timeframe is vital as it can significantly improve the chances of recovery and minimize permanent damage to the brain. A recent study by Boehringer Ingelheim India revealed that only 22 percent of respondents were aware of the risks and signs of a brain stroke, with awareness about treatment options dropping even lower, to just 10 percent.

The Golden Hour in Stroke Treatment: The lack of awareness concerning stroke risks, symptoms, and treatment options gravely impacts the efficient utilization of the Golden Hour. When individuals fail to recognize the early signs of a stroke, precious moments within this critical window are lost, diminishing the chances for a full recovery and minimizing the damage. This 4.5-hour window becomes a race against the clock, where each passing moment can have a huge impact on recovery results. It’s like a ticking clock where timely actions can halt or even reverse the damage, much like watering a wilting plant just in time to revive it. Swift diagnosis using MRI and CT Scans during this period allows medical professionals to ascertain the extent and location of the stroke, facilitating a tailored and effective treatment plan. This prompt action could dramatically alter the patient’s journey, potentially transitioning from a scenario of enduring long-term impairments to regaining a substantial, if not complete, quality of life.

Science of Stroke Care: In simple terms, the sooner the blockage causing the stroke is cleared, the less damage occurs. Among the primary treatments for stroke is Thrombolytic therapy, also known as clot-busting therapy. It involves administering a drug that dissolves the blood clots obstructing blood flow to the brain. This therapy is most effective when initiated within the Golden Hour, as it dramatically improves the chances of a full recovery.

Another treatment for ischemic stroke is mechanical thrombectomy, where a device is used to physically remove the clot from the blood vessel, and antiplatelet agents like aspirin, help prevent further clotting by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Advancements in Stroke Care: Recent developments in stroke care are forerunning a new era of enhanced interventions and better outcomes. Among these advancements, Intraoperative Digital Subtraction Angiography stands out, which is employed for real-time evaluation post-surgery to ensure procedural success[1]. Furthermore, in the face of a large area of the brain affected due to stroke, Osmotic Therapy has proven instrumental in managing cerebral edema and intracranial pressure, thereby potentially alleviating the severe outcomes associated with cerebral swelling[2]. These advancements, in conjunction with prompt action during the critical “Golden Hour,” play a vital role in enhancing the outlook and enhancing the well-being of individuals affected by strokes.

Recognizing and Reacting to Stroke: The mnemonic BE FAST is an easy way to remember common stroke symptoms and the necessary actions to take. It stands for Balance (loss of balance), Eyes (blurred vision), Face (face drooping), Arms (arm weakness), Speech (speech difficulty), and Time (time to call emergency services). Recognizing these signs early and seeking immediate medical attention within the Golden Hour can significantly improve outcomes.

The Golden Hour, extending 4.5 hours post the onset of stroke symptoms is a critical period where every second counts. A timely response, accurate diagnosis, and immediate medical intervention within this timeframe can significantly alter the course of recovery, potentially saving lives and reducing the long-term impact of stroke. Through education and awareness, we can better equip ourselves and our communities to act decisively in the face of this medical emergency, ultimately urging individuals and those around a person suffering a stroke to BE FAST in the Golden Hour.

ALSO READ-Bridging the Gap in Mental Health with Holistic Care

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Health Lite Blogs

Respiratory Health Tips for a Pollution-Free Diwali

Investing in a good quality air purifier with an HEPA filter can significantly reduce indoor air pollution. Keep your windows and doors closed while the air purifier is running to ensure that the air inside your home remains clean…writes Dr. Prashant Saxena

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India. However, along with the festivities, this vibrant festival also brings a spike in air pollution, which can have detrimental effects on respiratory health. The combination of firecrackers, bonfires, and other festivities leads to a significant increase in air pollutants, posing a serious threat to individuals, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. In this article, we will explore the impact of air pollution during and after Diwali on respiratory health and provide some essential tips on how to take care of your lungs during this time.

The Diwali Air Pollution Hazard

During Diwali, the air quality in many parts of India deteriorates dramatically due to the widespread use of firecrackers. The main pollutants released during this time are particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and various heavy metals. These pollutants can have severe health effects, particularly on the respiratory system. Short-term exposure to these pollutants can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and reduced lung function.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Respiratory Health During and After Diwali

Limit Outdoor Activities:

During the peak Diwali celebrations, it’s advisable to reduce outdoor activities to minimize exposure to air pollutants. This is especially important for individuals with respiratory conditions. If possible, stay indoors during the fireworks display to avoid direct exposure to the smoke and pollutants.

Use Air Purifiers:

Investing in a good quality air purifier with an HEPA filter can significantly reduce indoor air pollution. Keep your windows and doors closed while the air purifier is running to ensure that the air inside your home remains clean.

Wear Masks:

If you need to go outdoors, especially during the days surrounding Diwali, wear a mask that can filter out fine particles and pollutants. N95 or N99 masks are effective in reducing your exposure to harmful airborne particles.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your respiratory system moist and healthy. This can help to alleviate some of the irritation caused by airborne pollutants.

Avoid Smoke and Fumes:

Refrain from lighting fireworks or participating in bonfires if you have respiratory issues. If you are lighting fireworks, maintain a safe distance and ensure there is adequate ventilation. It’s crucial to avoid direct exposure to smoke and fumes.

Create a Clean Indoor Environment:

Clean your home thoroughly before Diwali to remove dust and allergens. Use exhaust fans to reduce indoor pollution and keep your living space well-ventilated.

Consult a Physician:

If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition, consult your physician before Diwali to discuss any necessary changes to your medication or treatment plan. They can provide guidance specific to your health needs.

Practice Breathing Exercises:

Regular breathing exercises, such as deep breathing, can help improve lung function and reduce respiratory discomfort. These exercises can also help in managing stress, which can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Follow Local Air Quality Updates:

Stay informed about local air quality levels during and after Diwali. Many apps and websites provide real-time air quality data, allowing you to plan your activities accordingly.

While Diwali is a time of celebration and joy, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with the increased air pollution during and after the festival. By following these tips and taking precautions to protect your respiratory health, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your well-being. Remember that respiratory problems can be aggravated by air pollution, so taking care of your lungs during Diwali is essential for a healthier and happier celebration.

(Dr. Prashant Saxena, Director and HOD, Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj)

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Ayurvedic Diet for Festive Health

Overdoing anything is never any good, so maintain a balance in food proportions eating heavy foods in less quantity and light foods in more quantity with suitable appetizers in between to balance the two…reports Asian Lite News

Every festival has its own charm, the easiest way to enjoy and maintain well being during festivals is to follow the Seasonal Regimen. The festival of Diwali falls in the transitional period where we can see can see a corresponding change in our body as well – the body strength is gradually increasing.

One should eat wisely to kindle the digestion and encourage tissue development:

Consume boiled water as per individual requirement.  Coriander seeds or Cumin seeds can also be used to flavor the water.

Consume sweets in the early part of the meal (to balance the Vata), to be followed by sour and salt items (to stimulate proper Pitta), backed up by foods with pungent, bitter and astringent tastes (to subdue Kapha).

Overdoing anything is never any good, so maintain a balance in food proportions eating heavy foods in less quantity and light foods in more quantity with suitable appetizers in between to balance the two.

Grain: Wheat, Rice and Barley – Rice should be of the white variety as brown rice, etc is not suitable

Barley: Items made up of barley (dosa, soup etc) are very useful for individuals having diabetic or sugar issues.

Lentils: Green gram is ideal. Tuvardal can be used sparingly. One must cut down on Channa, Rajma, Urad, etc

Suggested vegetables: Parwal / Pointed gourd, Bottle gourd, Bitter gourd and Ash gourd – all of which are strongly recommended to be included in your diet as they are sweet and light on your digestive system.

One can have small amount of Bitters like Bitter gourd, Methi, etc. Avoid raw foods.

Vegetables like Yam (suran), Young radish can be had. Carrot, beetroot – in moderate quantities.

Heavy to digest vegetables like Potatoes should be cut down.

Gas producing vegetables like Broccoli, Cauliflower& Cabbage should be reduced – and should be cooked well with ghee.

Avoid non-veg.

After a meal chew a small piece of ginger with rock salt which helps to avoid acid reflux.

Ensure that one has well cooked but light foods

Drink Buttermilk flavoured and made with crushed ginger, cumin and rock salt – it will improve the gut health.

ALSO READ-Ayurvedic practices to calm Pitta dosha agitation

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Healthy Heart During Winter Celebrations

HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods. Can be very effective for cardiovascular fitness…reports Asian Lite News

Promoting heart health during the winter and festivities can be a bit challenging due to colder weather and holiday indulgences. However, there are still plenty of exercises and activities that can help maintain a healthy heart during this time of the year.

To promote heart health, you should incorporate a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises into your routine. Here are some beneficial exercises:

Aerobic Exercises:

Brisk Walking: This is a low-impact exercise that’s great for beginners.

Running or Jogging: Provides a more intense aerobic workout.

Cycling: Whether on a stationary bike or outdoors, it’s excellent for cardiovascular health.

Swimming: A full-body workout that’s gentle on the joints.

Dancing: Fun and effective for heart health.

Jumping Rope: A high-intensity option that improves cardiovascular fitness.

Strength Training:

Weightlifting: Builds muscle, which can help improve metabolism and overall heart health.

Bodyweight Exercises: Push-ups, squats, and planks are great for strength and stability.

Flexibility and Balance Exercises:

Yoga: Enhances flexibility, balance, and reduces stress.

Pilates: Focuses on core strength and flexibility.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT):

Involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods. Can be very effective for cardiovascular fitness.

Cardio Classes:

Consider joining classes like aerobics, Zumba, or spinning for a structured and motivating workout.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns about your heart health. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your individual needs and fitness level.

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Gaza’s Health System in Jeopardy

The hospital had absorbed and replaced Al Shifa hospital’s maternity ward, which is being used now to treat injured persons…reports Asian Lite News

The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza has said that 16 out of the total 32 hospitals in the Hamas-controlled enclave are out of service due to the constant Israeli airstrikes and severe shortage of fuel.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry said that the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, which is the leading cancer hospital in Gaza, has stopped operating, CNN reported.

Palestinian Health Minister Mai al-Kaila said that at least 70 patients in the hospital are under critical condition, while the lives of about 2,000 other cancer patients are also under serious threat amid “catastrophic health conditions” due to the raging conflict between the Hamas and Israel.

On Monday, the hospital’s director Sobhi Skaik told CNN that the centre of the facility had been destroyed as a result of an airtsike while the thord floor suffered a direct hit causing damage to oxygen and water supplies, although there were no injuries or deaths.

But the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) told CNN on Tuesday that it “did not strike Gaza’s Turkish-Palestinian Friendship hospital”, without providing any further information.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Health Ministry in its statement on Wednesday also warned that the Al Shifa Medical Complex, the largest hospital in Gaza, could be out of service very soon.

“Al Shifa Medical Complex will stop working in less than 24 hours due to running out of fuel,” the Ministry said, adding that the facility’s vicinity has been repeatedly hit by Israeli airstrikes.

On Wednesday night, the Al Hilo Hospital was reportedly struck by shelling, the UN Office for the Coordiantion of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said.

The hospital had absorbed and replaced Al Shifa hospital’s maternity ward, which is being used now to treat injured persons.

However, Israel has reiterated that there is no fuel shortage in Gaza.

Last week, IDF spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus told CNN that there is “between 800,000 and perhaps more than one million liters of fuel of different types stored inside Gaza” under Hamas control.

As of Friday morning, the death toll in Gaza since the war erupted on October 7 stood at 8,805, with 22,240 persons injured.

In Israel, there have been 1,400 deaths and 5,400 injuries.

ALSO READ-Gaza Receives Aid as Rafah Crossing Remains Open

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Health Lite Blogs

Clean Air, Healthy Lives

Living in a polluted place is like an open invitation to health issues. You might find yourself dealing with everyday problems like runny noses, itchy eyes, and a hard time breathing…writes Dr. Ambarish Joshi

Have you ever thought that air pollution is something that’s not affecting you directly? Then you need to take a look at what the WHO report says. It says that nearly 99% of the world’s population is exposed to air that is polluted beyond the recommended guidelines. This problem is even more critical in middle-income countries like India, where people face the highest levels of exposure.

From the usual suspects like sneezing and red eyes to more serious stuff like high blood pressure, fertility problems, and scary diseases like lung cancer, strokes, and heart attacks – this omnipresent pollution is causing more trouble than we realize. And guess what? Delhi recently earned itself a title Delhites are not so proud of– it’s now the world’s second most polluted city, according to Forbes. It means that if there’s air, there’s air pollution around us. And we’ve no other choice but to breathe it.

The puzzle of pollution

So, how does this pollution thing work? Well, it happens when chemicals get released into the air, either naturally or because of stuff humans do. These chemicals can be primary, going straight into the air, or secondary, forming when the primary ones mix with other stuff already in the atmosphere or with other pollutants. There’s a long list of these pollutants, and they’re everywhere – indoors and outdoors. Each of them brings its own set of problems.

Silent killer

Living in a polluted place is like an open invitation to health issues. You might find yourself dealing with everyday problems like runny noses, itchy eyes, and a hard time breathing. But it doesn’t stop there – pollution can mess with your health in big ways too. It’s behind things like chronic headaches, trouble getting pregnant, and even life-threatening diseases such as lung cancer, strokes, heart attacks, and nasty flare-ups of asthma or COPD.

A case study

Let’s understand the severity of air pollution with a real example– a case study from Delhi-based Primus Hospital. In January 2023, a 25-year-old woman, a non-smoker, was having a tough time with a runny nose, sore throat, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing. She presented these signs at Primus Hospital OPD.

What came to light is that she’s had asthma since she was 17, with a family history. She had been using inhalers on and off and even had a few doctor visits for her asthma over the past 5 years. On top of that, she was suffering from allergic rhino sinusitis, but she was following the advice of an ear, nose, and throat specialist. But here’s the twist – she’s not feeling better. In fact, her health was getting worse. By April, she came back with the same issues. She had been following everything the doctor said and using her inhaler correctly. So, what’s the deal? Well, it turns out she moved from Himachal Pradesh to Delhi for work in November 2022. She was a salesperson, spending long hours outside every day, and it’s pretty clear that Delhi’s polluted air caused her health to nosedive.

This case drives home the point that air pollution can mess with your health, big time, even if you were healthy before. In case you are already suffering from an ailment like asthma-like in the case presented– then polluted air can take a heavy toll on your overall health.

Take preventive measures

As we all know prevention is always better than cure. Therefore, to protect yourself, stay indoors during heavy pollution, keep doors and windows shut, avoid outdoor workouts, wear masks, and follow local air quality advice religiously. Also, don’t forget to listen to your doctor, take prescribed meds, and have regular check-ups.

Need of the hour- A collective effort

The need of the hour is a collective effort because it’s not just the government’s job to clean up the air. Paying little attention to our daily actions that are causing pollution and making course correction efforts like carpooling, using public transport, and avoiding burning stuff outdoors can help us all build a society where we can not only live but breathe clean air.

The health effects of air pollution are serious – one-third of deaths from stroke, lung cancer, and heart disease are due to air pollution. Air pollution is an immediate and perhaps one of the biggest health concerns today, inflicting harm on our present and upcoming generations. It’s time we all stand together and make our air breathable again by actions that are in our control.

ALSO READ-Health agency asks to prepare for a fresh wave of Covid

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Health agency asks to prepare for a fresh wave of Covid

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the cases will “further increase” as the season progresses, along with other “winter respiratory viruses like flu”…reports Asian Lite News

Amid a significant rise in Covid cases, the UK health agency has asked people in the country to brace for another bout of infections due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus this winter.

The fresh cases are reportedly due to the new variant nicknamed BA.2.86, dubbed as Pirola.  The variant has led to a five-month high spike in hospitalisations (3,366 patients) in England in the week ending October 6 — the highest figure since mid-April.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the cases will “further increase” as the season progresses, along with other “winter respiratory viruses like flu”.

“This week’s surveillance indicates a slight increase in Covid infection rates. As we enter the colder months and people begin to mix more indoors, we expect to see further increases in Covid,” said Mary Ramsay, UKHSA’s director of public health programmes, in a statement.

“We are monitoring rates closely and reminding people that when you have respiratory symptoms you should avoid mixing with others, especially those more vulnerable,” Ramsay said.

While current hospitalisation due to Covid has increased, they are still far below levels seen during the pandemic.

The latest report by UKHSA showed that an average of 2,257 Covid cases are being recorded each day in England.

Meanwhile, the country has also rolled out vaccine boosters, for the elderly and vulnerable.

The UKHSA said 3.9 million over-65s in England (35.3 per cent) have been jabbed so far. The jab is being offered with the seasonal flu vaccine to maximise vulnerable people protection from both pathogens during the winter season.  Ramsay urged those eligible to take up the jabs.

“We strongly urge parents and all those eligible, for either or both Covid and flu vaccines, to book today with the NHS or via their GP surgery as soon as possible,” she said.

Covid to peak in Hong Kong

Waning vaccine immunity is likely to spur Covid-19 infections in the coming months in Hong Kong, warned a government pandemic adviser.

Hong Kong is seeing a fresh surge in Covid cases due to the XBB variant and the daily hospitalisation rate stands at about 120 cases.

According to David Hui Shu-cheong, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Chinese University, the positive rate of nucleic acid testing was 15 per cent based on Hospital Authority data. Shu-cheong noted there was a high chance of another peak in cases between this month and December, possibly overlapping with a flu outbreak, the report said.

“There are about 100 to 120 cases requiring hospitalisation on a daily basis, with the XBB variant accounting for 98 per cent,” Shu-cheong was quoted as saying. “Given that the previous peak occurred between April and May this year and antibodies (from vaccines) tend to decline after about six months, another one is estimated to occur between this month and the end of the year,” he said.

Moreover, the professor stated that the Covid-19 jabs administered in the city did not specifically target the XBB strain, unlike the third-generation vaccines produced by Pfizer and Moderna which used the sub-lineage XBB.1.5 as their primary antigen.

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