The third wave have seen a massive surge in the Covid cases. So far, many cases are mild and Doctors are recommending Home Isolation as a pre-emptive measure. Let us know more about 8 important tips on how to keep yourself and others safe.
Stay Isolated in one Room: Stay away from your family and other people with Covid symptoms as much as possible
Open Windows: Opening windows helps in circulation of the air and reduced the viral load of the room in which you are enclosed. Also try to use a seperate bathroom if there is an option.
Avoid shared space as much as possible: When using using shared spaces, limit your movements. Keep your kitchen and other shared spaces well ventilated.
Clean often touched surfaces: Frequently use sanitizer and surface disinfectant to clean the surfaces you toch on a regular basis.
Avoid sharing personal household items: Avoid sharing items such as dishes, towels, bedding and electronics. If possible, do not allow others to wash your dishes and clothes. Try to do it yourself.
Wear a mask: Always wear a mask especially when you are near others. Change your mask every day.
Frequently wash your hands: Wash your hands wkith soap. Apply soap and rub your hands for at-least 20 seconds. For complete information on Hand Wash, read our article (20+) Facebook. Also use an alcohol based hand sanitizer thatb contains at-least 60% alcohol.
Consult a Doctor: If you develop any symptoms or experience any difficulty in breathing or fever, consult a Doctor immediately.
R-naught, or R0, indicates the average number of people who will contract the infection and how many healthy people can be infected by a Covid positive individual.
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, Omicron is the predominant circulating strain in the spiking Covid cases. As per data, the R0 stood at 2.69  higher than the value of 1.69 that was recorded during the peak of the pandemic’s second wave in April-May last year.
So, what is this R0 value? Is it something you should be worried about it, or is it yet another jargon in the information overload that we have been battling since the onset of the pandemic, along with it?
R0 is the rate at which a virus spreads or is transmitted from one person to another. It is a mathematical representation of how contagious an infectious disease  is. It is also called the reproduction number  when the virus is transmitted, it reproduces itself. It is calculated by the epidemiologists by a simple equation: R0 = new cases of the infection over a said period/ existing cases of the infection. According to a BBC report, an infection’s R number has to be determined considering a number of factors, including the rate of deaths, hospitalisation and positive results from tests.
What is R0’s significance in policymaking?
The number tells the health policymakers about the average number of people who will contract a contagious infection like Covid-19 and how many healthy people can one infected person affect. This is pertinent when the infection, or a variant of the virus as in the case of Omicron, has not affected a population yet. Simply put, this is applicable to the population that was previously free of infection and have not been vaccinated, and thereby do not have immunity for the disease in question. Policymakers consider it to be an early warning signal that can suggest what trajectory the infection can take. Even minor variations can hold major significance  even a change of 0.1 in the values can translate to major numbers in terms of active cases.
While the numbers are scary, they cannot be taken in isolation. Despite Omicron being a new variant, the fact of the matter is that India has achieved major milestones in its Covid vaccination drive. Nearly 90 per cent of India’s eligible population has received one shot and over 63 per cent of the population has received both doses, as per government data. With Indian teens also being vaccinated, and the “precautionary†third dose set to begin for the frontline healthcare workers and senior citizens with comorbidities, most of the population has some level of resistance against the virus.
As prior immunity in a population plays role in determining the R factor, India’s number need not cause the alarm that was there ahead of the second wave. However, that does not mean the infection can be taken lightly.
The Health Ministry revised guidelines relating to home isolation of mild and asymptomatic Covid-19 cases on Wednesday amid the surge of cases around India.
“Over the past two years, it has been seen globally as well as in India that majority of cases of COVID-19 are either asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms. Such cases usually recover with minimal interventions and accordingly may be managed at home under proper medical guidance and monitoring.
The guidelines are applicable to Covid-19 positive patients who have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic. This includes having an oxygen saturation of more than 93% without shortness of breath and other common symptoms.
Guidelines for home isolation
The Ministry underlines that for patients with mild/asymptomatic cases will be given a designated control room contact number at the district/subdistrict level to help with guidance for testing and management of illness.
Such cases should have the required facility at their residence for self-isolation and for quarantining
Ideally, the patient should have a caregiver who has completed their COVID-19 vaccinations on a 24Ãâ€â€7 basis
Elderly patients aged more than 60 years and those with co-morbid conditions will only be allowed home isolation after proper evaluation
Immunocompromised patients are not recommended for home isolation and will also only be allowed home isolation after proper evaluation
Read more at:
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/new-home-isolation-guidelines-for-mild-asymptomatic-covid-19-cases/articleshow/88707406.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
Scientists in France on Tuesday announced the discovery of a new Coronavirus variant  IHU. Announcement came amid alarming rise of positive cases of the new coronavirus variant Omicron.
Named IHU, the B.1.640.2 variant was discovered by the academics at institute IHU Mediterranee Infection. According to the researchers, the new variant contains  46 mutations  â€“ even more than Omicron.
This variant has reportedly infected twelve individuals in France itself, near Marseilles, and has been linked to travel to the African country Cameroon.
The Omicron variant was detected first in  South Africa  in November 2021 and has been spreading like wildfire globally since then.
The B.1.640.2 has not been reported in any other country or labelled a variant under investigation by the  World Health Organization (WHO).
The Health agency mentioned that the variant was first detected in November and would have picked up considering the opportunities it had.
The health agency also assured that the variant has been on their radar since then. Who monitors several variants and examines their risk factors.
The cases reported of this variant are limited to France and therefore has not been designated a ‘variant under investigation’ by WHO.
Several virologists have been noting the presence of this variant and this has popped up in discussions.
“There are scores of new variants discovered all the time, but it does not necessarily mean they will be more dangerous. What makes a variant more well-known and dangerous is its ability to multiply because of the number of mutations it has in relation to the original virus.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, most commonly affects  the lungs  but It can also lead to serious heart problems.
Lung damage  caused by the virus prevents oxygen from reaching the heart muscle, which in turn damages the heart tissue and prevents it from getting oxygen to other tissues.
In addition, the body responds to the virus by creating inflammation, which is usually a appropriate reaction when it is fighting a virus. In some people with COVID-19, however, the inflammation seems to go into overdrive.  Too much inflammation  may further damage the heart or disrupt the electrical signals that help it to beat properly, which can reduce its pumping ability or lead to abnormal heart rhythms, called  arrhythmia, or make an existing arrhythmia worse.
In children and teens, a high level of inflammation is called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), and it can particularly affect the heart.
The virus may also affect heart cells. Researchers are working to understand if and how much this  contributes to the heart damage  seen in people with COVID-19. Some people who are seriously ill with COVID-19 form many small blood clots throughout the body including in the heart, which can also cause damage. Researchers think that  too much inflammation  may be causing the clots to form.  This inflammation is contributed by the sudden Cytokine Strorm that overwhelms the lungs and the respiratory system.
Some chronic health conditions may affect how COVID-19 affects your heart. These include:
We have been overwhelmed by the sudden spike in the Covid-19 cases. With the new variant of  B.  1.1.  529, which is commonly known as Omicron has led to a major apprehension among many of us regarding how we are going to cope up with this sudden attack.
Although we are hearing that this new variant is three times more virulent-that means, it has the potential of infecting more people and spread at a much faster rate. But on the other hand, the impact of the virus on the human body, till now is milder than its predecessor, the Delta variant. But it no means, should we consider this variant a less cause of concern or we should casually underestimate its effect.
Proper use of Mask, use of Hand Sanitizers, Maintaining Social Distancing and most importanly ensure that you are fully vaccinated. In this article, we will closely study the symptoms that are related to Omicron.
As of now, the Omicron variant has been associated with mild infections, which has resulted in a number of symptoms resembling common cold.
As of now, the Omicron variant has been associated with mild infections, which has resulted in a number of symptoms resembling common cold.
Having headaches, a sore throat, a runny nose, feeling fatigued and frequent sneezing may all feel like a regular cold or a flu. But under these circumstances, if you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should immediately get yourself tested. Apart from this, two new symptoms have also been reported which has been linke to the Omicron variant:
This day raises awareness of the cause and severity of Alzheimer’s disease, and it is observed throughout the month in certain countries. Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain condition that gradually deteriorates memory and cognitive abilities, among other things. It is the most frequent cause of dementia in older individuals. It is also a progressive illness that causes brain cells to deteriorate and die.
SYMPTOMS
Memory loss is a significant symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. The inability to recall recent events or discussions is generally an early symptom of the illness. Memory problems increase as the disease develops, and additional symptoms emerge.
Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, degenerative brain condition that gradually affects memory and thinking skills, as well as the ability to do even the most basic tasks.
With almost 50 million individuals living with dementia globally, dementia is one of the most serious issues we face.
As the disease advances, symptoms can include problems with language, disorientation (including easily getting lost), mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect and behavioural issues.
Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s disease cannot be reversed, however, with more awareness, family members of the patient can learn to manage the condition.
Taking care of your teeth isn't a proven way to prevent heart disease. While there appears to be some connection between oral health and heart disease, more research is needed to understand it.
Poor oral health has been debated as a possible cause of heart disease for many years. some studies have shown:
Gum disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease.
Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important if you have artificial heart valves.
Tooth loss patterns are connected to coronary artery disease.
There is a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.
Even though oral health isn't a key to heart disease prevention, it's important to take care of your teeth and gums:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Floss daily.
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
If you're concerned about heart disease prevention, ask your doctor about proven ways to reduce your risk  such as stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy weight.
World Patient Safety Day was established in 2019 to enhance global understanding of patient safety, increase public engagement in the safety of health care and promote global actions to enhance patient safety and reduce patient harm.
Objectives of World Patient Safety Day 2021
Raise global awareness on the issues of maternal and newborn safety, particularly during childbirth.
Engage multiple stakeholders and adopt effective and innovative strategies to improve maternal and newborn safety.
Call for urgent and sustainable actions by all stakeholders to scale up efforts, reach the unreached and ensure safe maternal and newborn care, particularly during childbirth.
Advocate the adoption of best practices at the point of care to prevent avoidable risks and harm to all women and newborns during childbirth.
Heart Valve Defect
There are 4 valves in the heart- Tricuspid Valve, Mitral Valve, Pulmonary Valve, Aortic Valve. We have discussed in detail about the role of each valve. But sometimes a defect may arise in the valve of a person and that cause serious complications. First let us understand what are the defects that may arise with the valves.
Regurgitation: We learnt that the basic function of a valve is to maintain an uni-directional flow of blood so that blood does not flow back. For example, if the Left Ventricle pumps blood into the Aorta, but the Aortic Valve does not close tightly, then some amount of blood will flow back into the left ventricle which is not at all desirable. This condition will be called as Aortic Regurgitation. The same phenomenon can occur with any other Valve. Lets, take the Mitral Valve. When the Right Ventricle pumps blood into the Aorta, the Mitral valve is closed so that blood does not enter the Right Atrium, but if the Mitral Valve does not close properly, some blood will leak into the Right Atrium. So Regurgitation is the process when the Valve does not close completely
Stenosis: We learnt that stenosis means narrowing of the opening. So basically what happens in Stenosis, the flaps become thicker and therefore, when the Valve opens, the diameter of the opening is reduced. That means that lesser volume of blood will pass through that valve. This is the opposite of Regurgitation, when the Valve does not open completely. Lets understand this by an example. The same example of Aortic Valve. If there is a stenosis, complete blood will not pass from the Left Ventricle. Therefore the Left Ventricle has to pump harder to pump out the blood. This eventually leads to thickening of the walls of Left Ventricle called Left Ventricular Hypertrophy.
Atresia: In this condition, the valve isn't formed, and a solid sheet of tissue blocks the blood flow between the heart chambers. This is generally a congenital problem
Causes of Heart Valve Defects
Valve Defects can be Congenital which is basically present by birth. If the defect is small, it may cause very little or no symptom at all. But in some cases as the age progresses, the valves may degenerate over time causing the symptoms to develop and that how the problem gets detected. In acquired valve disorders, the reason can be a Streptococcus infection which releases a toxin which damages the valve of the heart.
Valve Repair and Replacement
If the valve is suffering from a Stenosis or Regurgitation, then there are two approaches to correct this. The surgeon will check if the valve can be repaired or not, otherwise the valve needs to be replaced. There are two types of Valves available for replacement- Mechanical Valve and Tissue Valve. Mechanical heart valves are made from materials such as titanium and carbon. They usually consist of two leaflets and a metal ring surrounded by a ring of knitted fabric, which is sewn onto the heart in place of the original valve. There are several different models available for aortic and mitral replacement surgeries.
Tissue valves, also known as biological or bioprosthetic valves, are composed of animal or human tissue. The valves are derived from animal tissue such as porcine (pig), bovine (cow) and equine (horse) models, and then fixed with a preserving solution that may be mounted on a flexible frame to assist in deployment during surgery. As with mechanical valves, the bottom of a tissue valve is often surrounded by a ring of knitted fabric that is sewn onto the heart.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Mechanical v/s Tissue Valve?
The main advantage of Mechanical valves is that they are very durable. However, these valves provide a surface on which blood clots can form easily. As a result, anyone who has been implanted with a mechanical valve needs to be on lifelong blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin, to prevent the development of blood clots that can cause heart attack or stroke. Advantages of Tissue valves compared to mechanical valves include the avoidance of lifelong warfarin therapy to prevent the development of blood clots. A disadvantage is their relatively poor durability compared to mechanical valves, with many requiring a re-operation in 10 to 20 years.
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