india Issues Health Alert as ‘Brain-Eating’ Amoeba Cases Surge
New Delhi, India – Indian health officials have issued a statewide alert in Kerala following a dramatic increase in infections and deaths linked to Naegleriafowleri, a rare and often fatal amoeba commonly referred to as a “brain-eating” amoeba. The surge in cases has prompted large-scale testing and treatment efforts across the southern state.
While the overall number of infections remains relatively low, the doubling of cases compared to last year is raising significant concern. This year, 72 infections and 19 deaths have been reported, including a sharp rise in September alone with nine fatalities and 24 confirmed cases. Last year, the amoeba claimed nine lives out of 36 reported infections. The infection, though rare, is especially devastating, with a fatality rate exceeding 95% once it reaches the brain.
The Naegleria fowleri amoeba is found in warm freshwater, such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. Infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nose, typically during swimming or other water activities, and travels to the brain. Symptoms, which begin about five days after infection, include headache, fever, nausea, and stiff neck, progressing rapidly to neurological symptoms.
“Officials are conducting tests on a large scale across the state to detect and treat cases,” stated Altaf Ali, a doctor involved with the government task force addressing the outbreak, in comments to AFP.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the amoeba causes a severe brain infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which destroys brain tissue. Health officials are urging residents and visitors to take precautions when engaging in water activities, including avoiding nasal irrigation with tap water and using nose clips or plugs when swimming in freshwater sources. The current outbreak underscores the importance of vigilance and rapid diagnosis in combating this possibly deadly infection.
Malayalam Actress Navya Nair Fined in Australia for Carrying Jasmine Flowers
Sydney, Australia – Malayalam actress Navya Nair was recently fined by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for unknowingly bringing jasmine flowers into the country. The incident occurred as Nair arrived in Australia and highlights the nation’s stringent biosecurity regulations regarding plants and flowers.
Speaking at an Onam event, nair acknowledged the violation, stating, “Ignorance is no excuse,” and confirmed the infraction was unintentional. She was given 28 days to pay the fine,the amount of which was not disclosed.
Australia’s Border Force explicitly prohibits the import of plants, flowers, and seeds without a valid permit. Authorities cite the need to protect Australia’s unique ecosystem from potential diseases and pests carried by these items. According to Manorama News, certain species are considered high-risk, and even seeds must be free of soil, disease, and plant matter to comply with regulations.
Airlines, including vietjet, also issue warnings to passengers about restrictions on bringing herbs, flowers, pollens, and animal products into Australia without proper certification.
This is not an isolated incident. in the past, travelers have faced similar penalties for unintentional breaches of biosecurity laws. Years ago, Indian cricketers Harbhajan singh and Virender Sehwag were fined approximately $100 at auckland Airport in New zealand for having ‘dirty shoes.’ These cases serve as a reminder to all international travelers to thoroughly research and adhere to the import regulations of their destination country.
Sabarimala, Kerala – Despite persistent opposition, women seeking to worship at the Sabarimala Ayyappan Temple in Kerala continue to have access, following a 2018 supreme Court ruling that lifted a decades-long ban on women of menstruating age (typically between 10 and 50 years old) entering the temple. The issue, rooted in traditional interpretations of the temple’s customs, has sparked recurring protests and legal challenges.
The core of the dispute centers on the belief held by some devotees that the celibate nature of the deity, Lord Ayyappan, necessitates excluding women of menstruating age. This tradition faced legal scrutiny, culminating in the Supreme Court’s decision on September 28, 2018, which deemed the ban discriminatory and a violation of constitutional rights.While the ruling opened the temple doors to all women,implementation has been fraught with tension. Attempts by women to enter the temple in the years following the verdict have been met with resistance, including protests and attempts to block their access.
Historically, the temple operated under a custom that prevented women between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering, based on the belief that a woman’s presence during her menstrual cycle would disrupt the deity’s celibacy. Opposition to the court’s decision has largely come from devotees and certain political groups who argue for the preservation of this tradition. The Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the temple, initially sought a review of the Supreme Court’s order, but this was dismissed.
Despite the ongoing debate, the legal position remains clear: women are permitted to worship at Sabarimala. Authorities have stated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all devotees,including women,who wish to visit the temple. The situation continues to be monitored closely, with potential for further legal challenges or shifts in public sentiment.
Kalpetta, Kerala – Brothers Alex Saji and Alan Saji have been selected for the Under 23 national football team camp, marking a proud moment for their family and the Meenangadi Football Academy where their journey began. The selection recognizes their dedication and recent performances on the field.
alex Saji: From Local Leagues to National Recognition
Alex Saji has quickly risen through the ranks of Indian football. He currently plays as a defender for Gokulam Kerala, having previously made a significant impact with Hyderabad FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). Last season, Alex captained Hyderabad FC, demonstrating his leadership qualities and tactical acumen.
Did you Know? Alex saji’s performance with Hyderabad FC caught the attention of national team selectors, ultimately leading to his call-up.
His journey began with training at the Meenangadi Football Academy at the age of 11, followed by a stint at Thrissur Redestar. Alex’s consistent enhancement and dedication to the sport have been instrumental in his success.
Alan Saji: A Rising Star in indian Football
Alan Saji is making waves as a forward for FC Goa.His development began at the Mumbai Reliance Foundation Young Champs (RF Vio) Academy before moving to Goa. Alan also had the opportunity to compete in the prestigious Sanix Cup Youth Football Tournament in japan, gaining valuable international experience.
Like his brother, Alan’s foundation was built at the Meenangadi Football Academy.
pro Tip: Early specialization in a sport can be beneficial,but a well-rounded athletic foundation is crucial for long-term success.
The Role of Meenangadi Football Academy
the Meenangadi Football academy played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of both Alex and Alan Saji. Coaches C.P. Binoy, Biju, and academy manager Fuzzu V.Abbas provided the initial guidance and training that set the brothers on their path to success. The academy continues to nurture young talent in the region.
A Family Affair
alex and alan are the sons of Saji and sandhya. Their parents have been unwavering in their support, fostering a love for the game from a young age. Saji expressed his pride in his sons’ achievements and hopes to see them representing India on the international stage.
Player
Position
Current Club
Previous Clubs
Alex Saji
Defender
Gokulam Kerala
Hyderabad FC, Thrissur Redestar
Alan Saji
Forward
FC Goa
Mumbai Reliance Foundation Young Champs
What challenges do you think young footballers in India face when trying to reach the national level? And how can academies like Meenangadi continue to support emerging talent?
The Growing Landscape of Indian Football
Indian football is experiencing a period of growth, with increased investment in youth development and infrastructure. The ISL has attracted international talent and raised the overall standard of play. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is actively working to improve grassroots programs and provide more opportunities for young players. According to a 2023 report by FIFA, participation in football among youth in India has increased by 30% in the last five years [1]. This positive trend suggests a bright future for the sport in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Alex and Alan Saji? Alex and Alan Saji are brothers and talented footballers from Kerala, India, recently selected for the Under 23 national team camp.
What role did the Meenangadi Football Academy play in their development? The Meenangadi Football Academy provided the foundational training and guidance that launched their football careers.
What positions do Alex and Alan Saji play? Alex Saji is a defender, while Alan Saji is a forward.
Which clubs have Alex Saji played for? Alex Saji has played for Gokulam Kerala, Hyderabad FC, and Thrissur Redestar.
What is the significance of their selection for the national team? Their selection represents a major achievement and a step towards possibly representing India in international competitions.
We hope you enjoyed this inspiring story of dedication, talent, and family support. Please share this article with your friends and family, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to world-today-news.com for more breaking news and insightful stories.
Kerala is once again grappling with the deadly Nipah virus (NiV), with two fatalities reported in July, intensifying public health concerns across the state.
Rising Case Count and Contact List
An 18-year-old woman in Malappuram and a 57-year-old man in Palakkad succumbed to the virus. The latest outbreak has placed 571 individuals on the Nipah contact list, underscoring the aggressive nature of the disease.
Understanding the Nipah Virus
NiV infection is a zoonotic illness, meaning it can transmit from animals to humans. Kerala has documented ten such “spillover” events since 2018, with four occurring this year alone. The virus can also spread through contaminated food or direct human-to-human contact. Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are identified as the natural hosts of NiV.
Global Risk and Vaccine Development
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) estimates that Nipah virus potentially poses a risk to 2 billion people worldwide. Promisingly, two vaccines against the virus are slated to enter human clinical trials in Bangladesh next year.
Laboratory Challenges and Biosafety
Testing for Nipah virus requires stringent laboratory conditions due to its high fatality rate, which can range from 40% to 75%. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control mandates specific biosafety levels, with propagation and isolation of the virus requiring the highest biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) facilities.
Kerala’s Research and Resilience Efforts
In 2023, Kerala established a One Health Centre for Research and Resilience in Kozhikode. Anish T.S., an expert in infectious disease epidemiology and nodal officer at the center, highlighted the importance of independent spillovers over widespread outbreaks. He noted that approximately 60% of past Nipah cases in Kerala were hospital-acquired, emphasizing the need for interventions like mask-wearing within healthcare settings.
“So if the cases have to be reduced, the intervention has to be in hospitals, which includes wearing a mask to avoid an infection.”
—Anish T.S., Nodal Officer, One Health Centre for Research and Resilience
Addressing Hospital-Acquired Infections
Anish T.S., who also serves on the Kerala State Medical Board of Nipah and the WHO’s Collaborative Open Research Consortium for Paramyxo viruses, pointed out that a significant portion of Nipah infections have occurred in hospitals. This highlights the critical role of infection control measures within healthcare facilities to curb the spread of the virus.
The Role of the One Health Centre
The One Health Centre, though currently a small unit, plays a crucial role in supporting existing health systems. Its work focuses on building resilience during inter-epidemic periods by creating guidelines and coordinating with local administrations to identify high-risk zones. The center collaborates with various agencies, including the Institute of Advanced Virology and government departments of Animal Husbandry and Environment, to foster a comprehensive “One Health” approach.
Challenges in Source Identification and Research
A significant challenge in Nipah research is the difficulty in pinpointing the exact source of transmission. While bats are known reservoirs, understanding the precise context of viral transmission remains elusive. Research involving high-risk pathogens like Nipah is further complicated by the limited availability of BSL-4 facilities in state institutions, with the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune being a primary research hub.
The World Health Organization is involved in global health initiatives, including Nipah virus research.
Diagnostic Capabilities in Kerala
Kerala has made strides in diagnostic capabilities, with the government working to establish a fully functional BSL-3 facility in Kozhikode Medical College. Existing BSL-3 facilities are operational at Kozhikode and Manjeri Medical Colleges, as well as the Institute of Advanced Virology in Thiruvanthapuram. The NIV’s field Unit in Alappuzha also boasts a functional BSL-3 lab. The state leverages Truenat tests for rapid screening, complementing RT-PCR as the gold standard for Nipah diagnosis.
Independent Spillovers and Surveillance Strength
Recent analysis suggests that the current cases in Palakkad might be independent spillovers, a phenomenon not observed in earlier outbreaks. Anish T.S. believes that three independent spillovers are a more favorable outcome than a widespread outbreak. He hypothesizes that this could be attributed to robust surveillance mechanisms in Kerala, enabling the detection of sporadic events.
Understanding Bat Immunity and Transmission Cycles
Studies, including a serial survey of bats in Kerala by NIV, indicate a cyclical pattern of Nipah infection in bat roosts. Seroprevalence can fluctuate, suggesting periods of active viral transmission. The hypothesis is that immune roosts may offer lower chances of spillover, but immunity can wane over time, potentially leading to renewed transmission cycles.
Contact Tracing and Public Health Response
Contact tracing for Nipah is considered more manageable than for diseases like COVID-19, as transmission primarily occurs after symptom onset. The health system focuses resources on tracing individuals once a patient exhibits symptoms. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) play a vital role in community-level surveillance, reporting potential cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), which can sometimes be an indicator of Nipah infection.
Community Engagement and Prevention
Managing community response to Nipah requires clear communication and engagement. The district administration plays a key role in implementing containment measures. The virus’s potential to mutate and evolve makes early detection and intervention crucial to prevent the emergence of strains with pandemic potential.
