Latest news with #WholeGenomeSequencing
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Wardha Reports First Covid Death This Year
Nagpur: Wardha district reported its first Covid-19 death of the year after a 47-year-old man succumbed during treatment. According to sources, the patient was also suffering from liver cirrhosis. According to officials, his Covid-19 test report, received on June 13, confirmed the infection posthumously. With this, Wardha joins the list of Vidarbha districts that have reported Covid-19 deaths this year. Nagpur has already recorded three deaths, while Chandrapur has reported two so far in 2025. According to the state health department, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) recorded one fresh case on Sunday. Maharashtra recorded 40 new Covid-19 cases on June 15. The highest number of cases were reported from Mumbai (22), followed by Pune Municipal Corporation (10), Pune district (2), Pimpri-Chinchwad (2), Chandrapur (2) and Wardha (1). The state's active Covid-19 caseload now stands at 540. Of these, Nagpur has 7 active patients, all reported to have mild symptoms. Health officials reiterated that routine testing and surveillance of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) patients is ongoing across the state. All positive Covid-19 samples are being sent for Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to monitor for any emerging variants.
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Egg recall expands to 9 states after Salmonella outbreak leaves dozens ill, officials urge caution
Egg recall expands to 9 states after Salmonella outbreak leaves dozens ill, officials urge caution : A serious Salmonella outbreak has led to an urgent egg recall across 9 U.S. states, with health officials warning people to stop using specific cartons of eggs that may be contaminated. As of June 6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 79 people have fallen ill, and 21 have been hospitalized due to Salmonella Enteritidis infections. The eggs under recall were sold under various brand names, and were distributed by the August Egg Company based in Hilmar, California. No deaths have been reported yet, but the risk is high, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. According to the FDA, the affected eggs were sold in several popular supermarkets including Walmart, Raley's, Safeway, FoodMaxx, and Smart & Final. This is not a small recall—it's already affecting consumers in Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington, and Wyoming. What eggs are being recalled, and how can you check if yours are part of the Salmonella outbreak? The egg recall involves brown cage-free and certified organic eggs packed under multiple brands, including: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Clover First Street Nulaid O Organics Marketside Raley's Simple Truth Sun Harvest Sunnyside If you have a carton of eggs in your fridge, check the side of the package for the plant codes P-6562 or CA-5330. Also look for Julian dates between 032 and 126 and sell-by dates ranging from March 4 to June 4, 2025. These are clear signs that the eggs may be part of the ongoing recall. The FDA confirmed that the Salmonella found in these eggs matches the genetic strain of the bacteria found in the sick patients, after lab testing was done using Whole Genome Sequencing. Live Events The eggs were packaged in fiber or clear plastic cartons, so shoppers are advised to check both types of packaging. How did the Salmonella outbreak start and what's being done? The CDC and FDA say the outbreak was linked to eggs produced by the August Egg Company in California. The company is now fully cooperating with the investigation and has already pulled all impacted products from grocery store shelves. Instead of being sold, the remaining eggs are being diverted to a breaking facility, where they'll be pasteurized to kill any bacteria. So far, illnesses have been reported in seven states: California, Arizona, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, and Washington. The reported cases began between February 24 and May 17, according to CDC tracking. Out of 30 sick individuals who were interviewed, 27 said they had consumed eggs or food made with eggs. Health officials urge everyone to double-check their egg cartons, and if they match the recall codes, either throw them out or return them to the store. It's also important to clean any surfaces or utensils the eggs may have touched to avoid spreading bacteria. What are the symptoms of Salmonella infection and who is at risk? Salmonella is no joke. It can cause a lot of discomfort and even lead to hospitalization. Common symptoms include: Diarrhea Fever Stomach cramps Symptoms usually begin between 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Most people recover within a few days, but in some cases, especially in young kids, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems, the infection can become severe. If you've eaten any of the recalled eggs and feel sick, it's best to call your doctor right away. Even if your symptoms are mild, it's still smart to get checked out—especially with this confirmed outbreak spreading in multiple states. Why is this egg recall coming at such a sensitive time? This recall comes while the U.S. egg industry is already under pressure. Back in March, the Department of Justice started investigating major egg producers for possibly inflating prices during times of supply shortages. According to The Guardian, egg prices had surged earlier in the year, but dropped by 12.7% in April—the biggest single-month drop since 1984. Now, the Salmonella outbreak adds another layer of concern for shoppers and the food industry. With summer approaching, egg-heavy meals like potato salad, deviled eggs, and baked goods are common—so public health officials want people to be extra cautious during this time. What should you do right now? If you live in any of the nine states listed, here's what you need to do: Check your eggs: Look for the plant codes P-6562 or CA-5330 and Julian dates 032 to 126. Throw them out or return them: Don't take any risks. Clean your kitchen: Sanitize any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have come in contact with the recalled eggs. Wash your hands thoroughly: Especially after handling raw eggs. Stay updated: Visit or for the latest news.
India Today
07-06-2025
- Health
- India Today
India's Covid-19 cases cross 5,000-mark, Kerala, Delhi, Bengal most affected
India is seeing a fresh uptick in Covid-19 cases, with active infections reaching 5,364 on Friday, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry at 8 AM. In the last 24 hours, the country reported 764 new cases and four deaths, two in Kerala and one each in Punjab and remains the most affected state, reporting 192 new cases in a day, followed by Gujarat (107), West Bengal (58) and Delhi (30), contributing to a nationwide rise of 498 new infections. In view of the rising cases, the Centre conducted mock drills to check hospital preparedness. Covid-19 cases in India: 10 Points advertisementMaharashtra reported 114 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, bringing the total to 1,276 cases since January, along with one more death, raising the toll to 18. Pune (44 cases) and Mumbai (37 cases) reported the highest numbers, followed by Mira Bhayandar and Panvel with seven cases each. In the last 24 hours, West Bengal reported 58 new Covid-19 cases and 91 recoveries. The total active cases now stand at 596, with the death toll remaining at one. advertisement Delhi reported 30 new Covid-19 cases, raising active infections to 592, with no new deaths since Thursday, keeping the total fatalities at seven since January 1. Chhattisgarh has reported 50 Covid-19 cases following recent screenings conducted in response to a rise in infections in other parts of the country, officials said on Friday. Additionally, 1,183 people were tested after the detection of a new variant, and 50 tested positive for the virus. Haryana reported 31 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, with Gurugram (9) and Faridabad (11) accounting for the majority. Other cases were reported from Karnal, Jhajjar, Panipat, Yamunanagar, Hisar and Panchkula. The state currently has 87 active cases and a total of 151 cumulative cases. Officials state that most cases are mild and managed at home. Scientists add that while Covid-19 is becoming milder, occasional surges may happen since the virus is now endemic and constantly evolving. They added that there is no cause for alarm. On June 5, hospitals across the country conducted a mock drill to assess their preparedness for handling Covid-19 cases. The central government has directed all states to ensure adequate availability of oxygen, ventilators, isolation beds and essential medicines to manage a possible Covid-19 surge. On June 2 and 3, a series of technical review meetings chaired by Dr. Sunita Sharma, DGHS, were held with key health and disaster management agencies and state representatives. The purpose was to assess the current Covid-19 situation and review preparedness measures. Authorities are closely monitoring Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI). Testing is conducted for all admitted SARI cases and for 5 percent of ILI cases according to guidelines. Positive SARI samples are sent for Whole Genome Sequencing through the ICMR VRDL network. The World Health Organisation officially ended Covid-19's status as a public health emergency in May 2023. Health experts now describe the disease as seasonal, endemic, persistent, or limited to specific regions. Tune InMust Watch IN THIS STORY#Covid-19
The Hindu
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Sequenced COVID-19 samples in Tamil Nadu in were of Omicron and its sub-lineages: Director of Public Health
The Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) of COVID-19 samples showed that the infections were caused by the existing Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 and its sub-lineages, T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said. The strains currently in circulation are of Omicron and its sub-variants. It has not produced any virulent infections, he pointed out. In a video message put out by the directorate on Tuesday (May 27, 2025), Dr. Selvavinayagam said the current COVID-19 situation in the State was being continuously monitored through the Integrated Health Information Platform. As of now, 10 to 15 cases of COVID-19 were being reported in the State per day. Non-virulent infections Noting that there were non-virulent infections, he said that there were no hospital admissions and deaths due to COVID-19 in the State. 'It is a simple respiratory tract infection. The symptoms are the same and are not severe in nature. So, we may not experience any challenges,' Dr. Selvavinayagam said. To monitor the situation and look out for any new strains of COVID-19, the State had taken up WGS. Of the 26 samples, 19 were sent for WGS to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, in April, he added. 'The results have shown that there is no new variant. The samples were found to be of the existing Omicron, and its descendant variants — JN.1.16.1, LF.7.9, and LF.7.1.2. All these are sub-lineages of Omicron. There are no new variants or any virulent strains of COVID-19. All cases are of simple infections only,' he said. There was one case of NB.1.8.1 variant as well. Reiterating that there was no need for panic, Dr. Selvavinayagam said there was a need to approach this scientifically. 'We are continuously monitoring the situation. What people should know is that if any one has symptoms of COVID-19, especially persons with co-morbidities or the elderly, immediate medical help should be sought at hospitals,' he said. Hand hygiene and cough etiquette should be maintained. 'We should be vigilant. There is no need for panic and no need for any additional restrictions in this situation,' he said. The State government had adequate health infrastructure, Dr. Selvavinayagam added.
The Hindu
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Sequenced COVID-19 samples were of Omicron and its sub-lineages: DPH
The Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) of COVID-19 samples showed that the infections were caused by the existing Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 and its sub-lineages, T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said. The strains currently in circulation are of Omicron and its sub-variants. It has not produced any virulent infections, he pointed out. In a video message put out by the directorate on Tuesday, Dr. Selvavinayagam said the current COVID-19 situation in the State was being continuously monitored through the Integrated Health Information Platform. As of now, 10 to 15 cases of COVID-19 were being reported in the State per day. Non-virulent infections Noting that there were non-virulent infections, he said that there were no hospital admissions and deaths due to COVID-19 in the State. 'It is a simple respiratory tract infection. The symptoms are the same and are not severe in nature. So, we may not experience any challenges,' Dr. Selvavinayagam said. To monitor the situation and look out for any new strains of COVID-19, the State had taken up WGS. Of the 26 samples, 19 were sent for WGS to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, in April, he added. 'The results have shown that there is no new variant. The samples were found to be of the existing Omicron, and its descendant variants — JN.1.16.1, LF.7.9, and LF.7.1.2. All these are sub-lineages of Omicron. There are no new variants or any virulent strains of COVID-19. All cases are of simple infections only,' he said. There was one case of NB.1.8.1 variant as well. Reiterating that there was no need for panic, Dr. Selvavinayagam said there was a need to approach this scientifically. 'We are continuously monitoring the situation. What people should know is that if any one has symptoms of COVID-19, especially persons with co-morbidities or the elderly, immediate medical help should be sought at hospitals,' he said. Hand hygiene and cough etiquette should be maintained. 'We should be vigilant. There is no need for panic and no need for any additional restrictions in this situation,' he said. The State government had adequate health infrastructure, Dr. Selvavinayagam added.
