New Delhi, July 13 (IANS) Noting that the world has been witnessing the third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, NITI Aayog member V.K. Paul on Tuesday appealed to Indians to join hands to avoid its spread in India, warning that a "majority of cases will be reported if the next wave comes".
Citing data that mentions 3,90,000 Covid cases in the third wave across the world so far, Paul said it can only be prevented if people follow appropriate protocols in a coordinated way.
To avoid the third wave in India, Paul, while addressing a press briefing here, also asked the countrymen to follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advice given during his meeting with Chief Ministers of northeastern states where the majority of tourists are being seen violating Covid-19 norms.
"The world is witnessing a third wave (of Covid-19). We have to join hands to ensure that the third wave doesn't hit India. The Prime Minister today clearly said that we should focus on keeping the third wave at bay, instead of discussing when it would come in India," Paul said.
He said the Prime Minister clearly mentioned that third wave or next wave will not come itself, it depends on us as to how we prevent it in spreading again in the country.
Carefulness, not lowering the guard and Covid-appropriate behaviour was emphasised by the Prime Minister when he held a meeting with Chief Ministers of northeastern states earlier in the day, said Paul, suggesting that Indians follow these key points to avoid the third wave of the deadly virus.
Paul also emphasised six-feet distance, wearing masks and vaccination as three major Covid protocols to avoid the spread of the next wave.
He further advised the states and other authorities across the country for marking containment zones and tracking of Covid-19 cases to contain the spread of the pandemic as prescribed by the Prime Minister.
He also said that vaccine production is rising gradually in the country, adding it is a planned affair and with this increment, vaccines are being made available.
Geneva, July 13 (IANS) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO), on Monday warned of the "devastating outbreaks" caused by the Delta variant of Covid-19, saying that the new strain of the virus was infecting people "at a scorching pace".
"Last week marked the fourth consecutive week of increasing cases of Covid-19 globally," Tedros said at a virtual press conference from Geneva, adding that "after ten weeks of declines, deaths are increasing again."
The virus variant first identified in India in October 2020 is continuing the spread around the world and has now been detected in 104 countries, he said, Xinhua reported.
"The Delta variant is ripping around the world at a scorching pace, driving a new spike in cases and deaths."
Leaders around the world have responded to the new rise in infections in markedly different ways, with countries such as France adopting new restrictions while others easing them. The United Kingdom (UK), for one, still intends to lift all restrictions on July 19.
At Monday's press conference, the WHO chief warned of the danger of easing measures while many countries in the world still lack vaccines for their population.
"The current collective strategy reminds me of a firefighting team taking on a forest blaze," he said. "Hosing down part of it might reduce the flames in one area, but while it's smoldering anywhere, sparks will eventually travel and grow again into a rolling furnace."
Tedros reiterated his call on governments to share vaccines, adding that "the world should battle together to put out this pandemic inferno everywhere."
New Delhi, July 5 (IANSlife) If you pick up any skincare products -- peel-off mask, day cream, face wash or serum -- which promises to brighten the skin and hydrate it as well, you will likely find Vitamin C or ascorbic acid in the ingredients list. Vitamin C has become an essential part of skincare, especially now, when natural extracts are all the rage.
Perhaps the most popular natural remedy for skin woes, Vitamin C has several incredible benefits for the skin. It is not surprising, then, that it has become the absolute buzzword in the beauty category. Vishal Kaushik, Founder & MD at Upakarma Ayurveda lists the multifarious benefits of Vitamin C for your skin.
Undoing sun damage
When you go out in the sun, UVA and UVB rays from the sun wreak havoc within minutes of exposure. This can cause skin ageing, dullness, and many other skin troubles. Enter: Vitamin C. Photoprotection is one of the best benefits of Vitamin C. This means, when your sunscreen contains Vitamin C, you are better protected from the harsh rays of the sun due to its strong antioxidant properties. This is why several day creams with SPF are also enriched with Vitamin C. Not just for protection, Vitamin C can also undo previous damage caused by the sun, giving you hydrated and supple skin.
Reduces hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation presents as changing skin colour in patches or spots. This can happen due to a lot of reasons, including age or sun damage. However, it can be reversed or lightened with Vitamin C which inhibits melanin production in the skin. This is why several brightness products contain Vitamin C -- it reveals naturally brighter and even-toned skin.
Prevents fine lines
The very first signs of skin ageing, fine lines can cause a lot of stress. However, with regular use, Vitamin C serums can help to fade away these lines so you can smile without fretting about them. This is because Vitamin C boosts the skin's collagen and elastin production, which in turn makes the skin firm and plump. Goodbye, fine lines!
Reduces Inflammation
A powerhouse of antioxidants, Vitamin C can also soothe skin inflammation and help with conditions such as psoriasis and acne. Signs of inflammation like rashes, redness or irritation can also be reduced with Vitamin C-based products. However, since Vitamin C is a powerful ingredient, it is best to consult a doctor before using it for inflammatory conditions.
Hydrating effect
Modern skincare focuses a great deal on hydration. Well-hydrated skin remains youthful and problem-free much longer. A great benefit of Vitamin C is that it penetrates the skin and locks in moisture. This essentially means that Vitamin C deeply hydrates the skin and also helps it retain moisture.
While Vitamin C is a miraculous product for the skin, it takes a little while to start showing discernible effects. So, regular use is the key to derive maximum benefits from your Vitamin C based products. With patience and correct usage, you will get the smooth, radiant and youthful skin of your dreams. So, is Vitamin C worth the hype? Definitely!
Pfizer and BioNTech have announced that they were developing a Covid-19 booster shot intended to target the highly transmissible Delta variant, according to US media reports.
Concerns continue to rise as the Delta strain has already become the dominant variant in the US, causing increasing infections, Xinhua news agency quoted the reports as saying on Thursday.
The two companies said they believe a third shot of their current two-dose vaccine has the potential to preserve the "highest levels" of protection against all currently known variants, including Delta, but they are "remaining vigilant" and developing an updated version of the vaccine, a CNBC News report said.
"These findings are consistent with an ongoing analysis from the companies' Phase 3 study," the companies said in a statement issued on Thursday.
"That is why we have said, and we continue to believe that it is likely, based on the totality of the data we have to date, that a third dose may be needed within six to 12 months after full vaccination."
Clinical studies could begin as early as August, subject to regulatory approvals, the companies said.
Executives from Pfizer and BioNTech have said people will likely need a booster shot, or third dose, within 12 months of getting fully vaccinated because they expect vaccine-induced immunity to wane over time.
(Courtesy: IANS)
Today COVID-19 has hit almost every family in the Country. The sufferings of citizens due this mysterious pandemic have multiplied manifold in its second wave when, Central Govt was celebrating its success in containing first wave and claimed that it has successfully contained COVID-19 which is almost finished. The Central Govt little realised that the COVID-19 was just sleeping like Kumbhakarn and was likely to hit back with vengeance.
When Rahul Gandhi seriously for the first time tweeted on 12th February 2020 stating none took him seriously:-
"The Corona Virus is an extremely serious threat to our people and our economy. My sense is the government is not taking this threat seriously. Timely action is critical," Rahul had written, tagging an article--dated February 7--in the Harvard Gazette, which predicted that the outbreak could be more widespread than thought.” (Kaushik Deka India today – 14th April 2020)
It was claimed that it was Rahul’s keen interest in the global history of war, which helped him to assess the threat of the virus before many others. It appears that COVID-19, had first drawn Rahul’s attention in the first week of January, following the World Health Organization’s announcement on December 31 that a "mysterious pneumonia" was afflicting many in China.
While the cases in USA started surging after “Thanksgiving” and “Christmas” the cases started surging in USA. On January 9, 2020, WHO Announced Mysterious Coronavirus-Related Pneumonia in Wuhan, China. On January 20th 2020, the CDC to started screenings at JFK International, San Francisco International, and Los Angeles International airports. These airports are picked because flights between Wuhan and the United States bring most passengers through them.
The Central Govt despite all this going on, invited U S President Donald Trump
to visit India on 24th February 2020 at Biggest Stadium Ahmadabad. Thus, in order to prepare fool proof security system, the entourage from USA started arriving in India from mid-January 2020 onwards without any checks at airport. As per Media Reports (The Guardian – 24th February 2020, a huge crowd chanted “Namaste Trump”.
Across the stands of the world’s biggest cricket stadium, a sea made up of the faces of Donald Trump and Narendra Modi stared out. The 125,000-strong crowd who had gathered to welcome to US president on his first visit to India alongside the Indian prime minister, at a rally dubbed “Namaste Trump”, not only danced and chanted to show their appreciation, but many also donned masks of the two leaders.
This was a case of totally casual and careless attitude on the part of the Central Govt to ignore the clear warnings and invite trouble.
However, once the issue was raised in Parliament, the Union Minister of State for Finance on 18th March 2020 negating all the fears and readout a written reply on the floor of the Rajya Sabha:-
that the latest data on trade and indicators of domestic output do not suggest any adverse impact of coronavirus on the Indian economy.
"As is true for the world at large, India's near-term macroeconomic outlook also vulnerable to disruption of trade with China and 2nd-round effects arising from an expected slowdown in global growth.
However, the latest available data on trade and indicators of domestic output don't suggest any adverse impact on the economy”. (Source: ANI - Business Standard -18th March 2020)
He was so confident that he predicted positive impact on India economy that the latest data on trade and indicators of domestic output do not suggest any adverse impact of coronavirus on the Indian economy.
However, as the things turned shape the very next day on 19th March 2020 in a 30-minute address to the Nation Prime Minister Sh. Narender Modi announced a complete Janta Curfew on 22nd March 2020 from 7.00 am to 9.00 PM:-
“This Sunday, that is on March 22, all citizens must follow this curfew from 7 am until 9 pm. During this curfew, we shall neither leave our homes nor get onto the streets and refrain from roaming about in our societies or areas. Only those associated with emergency and essential services may leave their home.(Source: Indian Express Web Edition -19th March 2020 -10.37.58 PM)
The Janta Curfew was defined to say that no citizen, barring those in essential services, should get out of their house. He further asserted that:-
“ it will be a litmus test to show how much India is ready to take on the challenge of the coronavirus pandemic. “This experience will serve the nation well,”
Once again just within two days after Janta Curfew the Prime Minister on 24th March addressed the nation to announce 21 days Nation Wide lockdown.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced a complete lockdown of the entire country for 21 days in an unprecedented drastic measure to try halt the spread of the pandemic. Shortly after the announcement, the Centre said all road, rail and air services will remain suspended during this period.
COVID-19 has claimed 11 lives in the country with authorities reporting one death each in Delhi - the second in the national capital - and Maharashtra on Tuesday and over 500 persons being afflicted by the viral infection. Fears are also mounting that more could be hit as the global coronavirus toll inches towards 17,000.
In his second address to the nation in less than a week on the growing concerns over COVID-19, PM Modi said the lockdown will be in force from Tuesday midnight, as he announced a Central allocation of Rs 15,000 crore to strengthen the health infrastructure to tackle the disease. (Source – PTI - Times of India -24 March 2020 – 8.32 PM)
It was the first time in India provisions of the National Disaster Management Act, 2005, were invoked.
In an order issued by the home ministry, the home secretary as chairperson of the National Executive Committee of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued guidelines for the national lockdown for 21 days. The guidelines allow for essential services such as food, utilities, health care, and law and order. Many parts of the country were already under a lockdown till March 31.
Since the Prime Minister is the Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority constituted under the Disaster Management Act 2005, having a Vice Chairman holding the status of a Cabinet Minister and 8 members with the status of Ministers of State, thus this committee headed by the PM is responsible for the management of relief efforts in the entire country.
That’s where the Role of Prime Minister has come under severe criticism from all quarters. I am not going into the history of lock down and unlock down despite having knowledge of imminent threat of second wave that had hit every Country. The second wave had brought a country like USA on its knees.
We may have read in various newspaper reports when other countries were going through the pangs of the 2nd wave, we (Represented by our PM) boasted to the world during the World Economic Forum on 28 Jan 21 that we (Mr. Modi) had defeated corona virus and patted himself for doing so.
Because we (headed by our PM) failed to have foresight and prepare for the worse despite seeing country after country suffering under the 2nd and even 3rd wave.
It did not stop at this stage only. Ahead of elections in five States, in a meeting of BJP National Office Bearers on 21 Feb 21 a resolution was passed hailing Mr. Modi’s leadership in defeating corona despite the stirrings of the 2nd wave.
AHEAD OF elections in five crucial states, the BJP on Sunday held a meeting of the party’s national office-bearers and state unit presidents, which passed a resolution praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bringing in reforms in the agriculture sector and for his leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Prime Minister asked the party leaders to grow the organisation with the ideal of “Nation First”.
It looks that the priority was contesting and elections in five states and Panchayat Elections in Uttar Pradesh. That’s why the 123rd Report of DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE on "THE OUTBREAK OF PANDEMIC COVID-19 AND ITS MANAGEMENT" - Presented to the Chairman, Rajya Sabha on 21st November, 2020 and Forwarded to the Speaker, Lok Sabha on 25th November, 2020 that records the following major observations was ignored by the Chairman, DDMA:-
The WHO Representative to India, appreciated the response of the Government of India to pandemic COVID-19 describing the Lockdown Measures as "timely, comprehensive and robust". WHO has, however, cautioned that lockdowns alone would not eliminate corona virus and India must take necessary measures to prevent a second and third wave of infections.
The Committee reiterates its considered view that the healthcare spending in India is abysmally low for an emerging economy with a population of 1.3 billion. Lack of desired level of investment in the health infrastructure has so far resulted into fragility of Indian health ecosystem which posed a big hurdle in generating an effective response against the pandemic. The Committee, therefore, strongly recommends the Government to increase its investments in the public healthcare system and make consistent efforts to achieve the National Health Policy targets of expenditure upto 2.5% of GDP within two years as the set timeframe of year 2025 is far away and the public health cannot be jeopardized till that time schedule.
The Committee also laments the poor state of primary healthcare especially in rural areas. The Committee strongly recommends the Ministry to urgently increase its spending under the National Rural Health Mission to strengthen the delivery of health care services in the rural areas, keeping in view the languishing health infrastructure and inadequate delivery of health services to much needed rural population.
The Committee is of the view that pandemic Covid-19 offers a window to revisit the country’s health policy with the purpose of strengthening the health sector, and thus necessitates a higher investment in creating permanent basic health infrastructure. The Committee also believes that a higher budgetary allocation will also boost the healthcare industry and shift the focus to Indian manufacturers and domestic supply chain of products. The Committee believes that it is the opportune time to boost India’s healthcare infrastructure and push for greater technology deepening in the healthcare sector.
Our Central Govt was so overconfident that the Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan went overboard to publicly announce that:-
We are in India, has emerged as the world's pharmacy, and it supplied 5.51 crore Covid-19 vaccines to 62 different countries, Union health minister Harsh Vardhan said.
"We are in the end game of the COVID-19 pandemic in India" and to succeed at this stage, Union health minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said, politics should be kept out the Covid-19 vaccination drive.
That is when as a nation we have committed terrible mistake of being overconfident propagating an image of “Make in India” Vaccine which was actually “Made by India” and India had no control over the same as it is apparent now the shortage of vaccine is staring at our faces and we have no clue by when we would be able to inoculate our population. We also do not know by the time we plan inoculation whether, the vaccine would be effective or not is a million-dollar question.
The next issue that acted as a super spreader was holding Kumbh at Haridwar by preponing from 2022 to 2021. Normally Kumbh is held after every 12 years. The last Haridwar Kumbh Mela was held in 2010. The actual due date for the ‘current’ Kumbh at Haridwar was 2022, not 2021. Thus, the moot question arises that how it got advanced by one whole lethal year at a time India’s second Covid wave was expected.
So, not only did the Government of India, and the Government of Uttarakhand not cancel the Kumbh Mela, which they could easily have done, so as not to endanger the lives of millions of people by causing a super-spreader event for COVID-19; they also need not have let it take place this year at all, simply because this is the 11th, not the 12th year, since the last Kumbh Mela at Haridwar. They could have used this time to create the conditions where holding an event like the Kumbh could have made some kind of sense, maybe, in 2022.
The Central Govt and the State Govt of Uttrakhand ignored all the suggestions offered by the seers to defer Kumbh next year.
A group of prominent seers in the city has demanded that the scheduled to be held next year be postponed by a year in view of the Covid-19 threat. The group which includes mahamandaleshwaras (a rank in religious hierarchy) of prominent ashrams, claims that the mela was in any case scheduled to be held in 2022 but had been preponed to January 2021. Swami Vishwatmanand Puri, general secretary of Paramadarsh Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Samiti (PAMS), told TOI,
The slow progress on holding Kumbh Mela did cost heavily to Mr Trivendra Singh Rawat, who had to resign as Chief Minister and his successor, Tirath Singh Rawat, immediately said that there would be no ‘rok-tok’ – no restrictions – on pilgrims, and that with Goddess Ganga’s blessings, faith will triumph over disease.
However, on 6th April at the Review Meet for Kumbh the Central Govt team observed that Kumbh might become COVID-19 'super spreader': (Source ANI 6th April 2021).
As expected, 91 lakhs devotees had attended Kumbh Mela as per The Kumbh Mela Force i.e. the Governing Body (Source: Hindustan Times-30th April 2021 -3.00 AM)
Thus, the manifold increase in number of cases of COVID-19 in UP and Uttarakhand and many other States is stated to be just because of Kumbh. Many seers lost battle against COVID-19, consequently some of the Akhara heads suddenly called off and returned. Since many devotees participated in the Mela were from villages, the real number would never be known.
When elections in Bihar were held, though the election commission directed (The Hindu 21st October 2020) the political parties to follow appropriate Covid Behaviour, said directions were brazenly flouted by one and all. The Election Commission did not move even its little finger. Consequently, all the star campaigners of Political Parties were sure that nothing would happen even if they continued to flout all norms
Now coming to another super spreading events i.e. elections held in five states despite country reeling under second wave of Covid. The sequence of events as reported by India Today - 30th April 2021 is as follows:-
When West Bengal went for the first of the eight-phase assembly elections on March 27, the seven-day average of daily cases was modest. At that rate, it would have taken 778 days to double the number of cases in the state.
From all indications, the virus seemed benign in West Bengal then.
But the situation changed dramatically a month and two days later. On April 29, to be precise, when the state had its eighth and final phase of elections, infections spread ferociously.
Doubling Rate, Fatalities Jump in Assam, Tamil Nadu
Assam witnessed a massive jump in the doubling rate in the election month. A manifold growth in number of Covid-19 related deaths was recorded in Tamil Nadu.
All the states had their fair share of mega rallies and roadshows where reportedly Covid- appropriate protocols were rarely followed.
The day Tamil Nadu went for elections, the state had reported 15 Covid-related casualties. The number astonishingly touched 98 on April 29.
Kerala's High Positivity
All data points suggest that Kerala too is in the midst of a raging pandemic. Among the states that went for elections, Kerala happens to have the highest positivity rate, close to 10 per cent, now.
While Kerala seems to have handled Covid-related deaths better than most other states, the sharp reduction in doubling days should be a cause of concern.
It is also matter of record that Hon’ble High Court of Madras came down heavily on Election Commission of India and called it the “the most irresponsible institution” for the alleged spread of the second wave of Covid-19 in the country. It also observed that EC officials may be booked under murder charges, says Madras HC on election rallies. The EC filed SLP before Hon’ble Supreme Court.
The impact of Panchayat Elections in Uttar Pradesh is visible and many stalwarts have lost the battle against COVID. The news of bodies floating in Ganga River and its tributaries in UP Area and Bihar Area is a serious concern. As forewarned by the Committee in its 123rd Report, in absence of health facilities in villages the actual numbers would never be known.
As per Media Reports despite rising cases and deaths Prime Minister chose to visit WB 17 times to address mass rallies and Union Home Minister visited WB 20 times, which is in clear violation of the 123rd Report of the Parliamentary Committee on COVID-19.
Now coming to vaccination which is another story marred by multiple controversies and charges and counter charges by politicians. But let us have holistic view of the situation in view of the facts in public domain. I hope all of us remember historic visit by our Prime Minister on 29th Nov 2020 to various vaccine manufacturing facilities at Pune, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad (Source – Times of India – 29th Nov 2020 - 04.37 AM)
This visit raised hopes and also created an impression that India is manufacturing COVID-19 Vaccine particularly in view of statement made by Prime Minister in 75th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, 2020.
As the largest vaccine producing country in the world, I want to give one more assurance to the global community today. India’s vaccine production and delivery capacity will be used to help all humanity in fighting this crisis,” said Modi in his virtual address.
Modi said that India and its neighbourhood was moving ahead with phase-3 clinical trials, and that other countries will also be helped in enhancing their cold chain and storage capacities for the delivery of the vaccines.
Highlighting the role played by India in ensuring that other countries did not run out of key drugs during the Covid-19 outbreak, PM Modi said that even during the very difficult times of the raging virus, the pharmaceutical industry of India sent essential medicines to more than 150 countries.
The fact remains that SII according to the agreement between Gavi and the Serum Institute of India (SII), which included funding to support an increase in manufacturing capacity, SII is contracted to provide COVAX with the SII-licensed and manufactured AstraZeneca (AZ)-Oxford vaccine (known as COVISHIELD) to 64 lower-income economies participating in the Gavi COVAX AMC (including India), alongside its commitments to the Government of India.
Despite having Union Minister for Health, the Union Aviation Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri informs by tweeting (Source: Business Today -12th May 2021 08.39 IST) that advance orders for May, June and July have been placed. He is mysteriously silent on status before May 2021. He is also silent on Delivery as placing order is not enough, the supplier must be in a position to supply.
As several states face vaccine crunch despite the Centre placing bulk orders with two vaccine makers Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech, the government has issued fresh orders to procure vaccines from these companies."
It is matter of record that the Govt of India told the Supreme Court that “no governmental aid, assistance or grant” was given for the research or development of Covid-19 vaccines Covishield or Covaxin even though the former is manufactured in the country by the Serum Institute of India (SII) and the latter was indigenously developed by Bharat Biotech in the collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
This statement raises serious concerns about the whole planning process an attitude of the Government in dealing with the pandemic in view of COVID Committee Report observations in Para 13 above. One can continue writing endlessly on this subject as many stories are unfolding with each day.
The High Court of Allahabad on 18th May 2021 while hearing a matter related to death of a patient Medical system in UP small cities, villages ‘Ram bharose’.
Perhaps for the first time in the country we have heard “Oxygen Shortage” leading to death of patients almost in every city of the Country. The matters had reached various High Courts and there was ping pong match between Central & State Govts. Let us have a look at Para 1.43 of the 123rd Report of DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE on "THE OUTBREAK OF PANDEMIC COVID-19 AND ITS MANAGEMENT dealing with preparedness of COVID-19
Management of COVID-19 and State of preparedness 1.43 The Committee was given to understand that the main purpose of implementing the lockdown measures was to contain/ slow down the spread of Coronavirus by breaking the chain of transmission and to provide additional time to ramp up capacities at all levels. During this period, the capacities and health infrastructure were ramped up. It was estimated that an arrangement was made for a total of 3914 facilities in the country with 3,77,737 Isolation beds (without ICU support), 39,820 ICU beds and 1,42,415 oxygen supported beds along with 20,047 ventilators. In terms of healthcare logistics, cumulatively 213.55 lakh N95 masks, 120.94 lakh PPEs and 612.57 lakh HCQ tablets were distributed.
Thus, the summary of Beds is as follows:-
(a) Isolation Beds (without ICU Support) - 3,77,737
(b) ICU Beds - 39,820
(c) Oxygen supported Beds - 1,42,415
(d) Ventilators 20,047
So, one can imagine in a population of135 crores, where 80% are asymptomatic, for balance 20% symptomatic and out of those 20% only 5% require Hospitalisation, which would mean 1,82,25,000 beds and if we gone by ICU Bed requirement of 2% of 20?out 72 lacs beds were required. Did we reach there at all? The answer is no. That’s why though insufficient temporary arrangements made still could not save precious lives.
The final observations by the Committee are appearing from Para 2.34 onwards, that are reproduced as follow:-
The Committee observes that the total number of Government hospital beds in the country was grossly inadequate keeping in view the rising incidence of Covid-19 cases. Attention of the Committee has also been brought to Media Reports which highlighted the abysmally low number of beds in Government hospitals in the country especially at the peak of the pandemic. Data from National Health Profile–2019 states that there are total 7,13,986 Government hospital beds available in India which amounts to 0.55 beds per 1,000 population.
Therefore, in backdrop of aforesaid admitted position available in public domain one thing is clear that the entire issue has been mishandled by those who were not experienced in handling Pandemics and also did not know anything about Virology. The strangest part is that the Union Minister for Health is a former Practicing Doctor from Delhi, still he preferred to have IAS officers in the driving seat instead of letting the doctors and subject specialists to handle the situation. This finally led to flawed policy making.
Because the govt showed 'stubborn resistance to evidence-based policymaking' and managed and manipulated data as stated by Dr Shahid Jameel, the famous Virologist who had resigned four days ago stated:-
All of these measures have wide support among my fellow scientists in India. But they are facing stubborn resistance to evidence-based policymaking. On April 30, over 800 Indian scientists appealed to the prime minister, demanding access to the data that could help them further study, predict and curb this virus. Decision-making based on data is yet another casualty, as the pandemic in India has spun out of control. The human cost we are enduring will leave a permanent scar. (Source: The Wire -17-05-2021)
Now, as a Nation what did we do in 2020 and 2021 - Answered by Kanthaswamy Balasubramanian of Politics and Polity 16-05-2021
What did GOI do?
What Govt of India did?
Celebrated Diwali
(d) Passed ill-conceived farm laws and cause a build-up of people for months and months and months.
Jan - March 2021 - China, Russia, US, EU begin mass vaccinations thanks to steady supply of vaccines already collaborated and ordered.
What did Govt of India do?
What does India do?
Role of State Governments
While as a nation we have failed miserably, the blame is to be equally shared by all the States as the States too have miserably failed in not only assessing the ground realities but also perform the Statutory Responsibility cast upon them.
When we look at the Report dated 24th December 2019 on Rural Health Services published by Department of Health & Family Welfare of Ministry of Health, New Delhi, in the forward by its Secretary paints a very rosy picture about Rural Healthcare Services, relevant text of, which is reproduced as under:-
'Rural Health Statistics' an annual publication is based on Health care administrative data generated by the health care system. It is an effort towards providing reliable and updated information on rural health infrastructure. The data given in this publication is based on the information upto March 2019, provided by States and UTs. In line with Ministry’s flagship scheme “Ayushman Bharat”, the data on parameters pertaining to Health & Wellness Centres has also been incorporated. Data regarding the Dental Surgeons at PHCs and CHCs level has been incorporated for the first time in this publication. To increase the scalability of the publication the data with respect to the Urban Health parameters have also been included in the publication. It provides data on rural, urban and tribal health infrastructure, human resources, distribution of facilities at SCs, PHCs, CHCs, HWCs etc., so as to provide the status of public health infrastructure available in the country.
Though the Report paints very rosy picture about the efficacy of Rural Health Services with adequate building, infrastructure, and staff. However, the present COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the facts that all these reports are prepared by Bureaucrats while sitting in airconditioned offices that are just like any other story. The situation in almost all villages even urban villages that the buildings of Primary Health Centres and Sub Centres and Community Health Centres are in dilapidated condition without any infrastructure in absence of Doctors, nurses and lab technicians.
Similarly in cities the State Governments have failed to assess and improve the basic healthcare facilities, which has also been exposed by COVID-19. Both the Politicians and Bureaucrats have miserably failed in estimation and planning while dismantling the temporary healthcare facilities that were set up to treat COVID-19 patients.
Further, while dedicating all the hospitals for COVID -19 patients the State Governments just ignored the basic fact that apart from COVID-19, there were patients who were supposed to undergo various lifesaving surgeries, that had to be put off. The accident victims had to wait for days together for getting admitted in Hospital as all hospitals were having COVID Patients. There were COVID +ve patients, in DRDO facilities who had recovered and became COVID -ve but had developed pulmonary complications, again there were no beds for days together.
The prohibited cost of treatment in private hospitals have created a major problem for the families, the black marketing of oxygen and drugs has shown the ugly side of the society and lack of enforcement mechanism of the Govt.
The floating bodies in various rivers has shown the insensitivity of State Govts and local bodies in containing the overcharging by crematoriums. The Political parties failed to come forward to provide decent last journey to the deceased and offer solace to the families of the deceased. The Govts tried to hide their inefficiency by saying that its ritual to immerse and dispose off the deceased. What a shame?
Even now if the Central & State Governments do not wake up the third wave is going to cost very heavily to children and younger generation. The failure on the part of both the Executive and legislature in protecting interest of the citizens and providing affordable health services has definitely rattled every common citizen and forced them to sit back and think seriously which may lead to a serious change n the times to come.
(The writer is Hony President SP-CHETNA, www.spchetna.com)
A workout doesn't mean spending hours in a gym or sweating on a treadmill. The foundation of working out should be laid at a young age. Delhi-based fitness and sports nutritionist Hasti Singh shares top five reasons to include workout in a child's daily routine.
* Stronger muscles and bones
* Fit and lean posture
* Lower risk of becoming obese
* Lower chance of attracting diseases
* Controlled B.P and cholesterol.
Singh says, to start with, parents can ask their child to do yoga or meditation for at least 1 hour daily. The trick is that parents should also do with them as then they will try to imitate and will enjoy doing the exercise.
Kids can also do aerobics as it strengthens the heart and helps in circulating oxygen to the cells. Aerobics can be done at home and parents can also participate in these exercises like playing basketball, swimming, jogging, running, cycling.
Singh points out: "When I say workout, don't confuse it with weight-lifting. Kids could do push-ups, crunches with stomachs, stretching, and other exercises to give a shape to their physique and gain strength. These exercises don't include much hard work and are also good from the kids' perspective. By doing push-ups, the child would learn to tackle weight and it will improve his shoulder and arm connection."
Rope Skipping is another good workout activity that you can introduce to your child. Skipping strengthens hand and leg muscles.
Kids can also join any dance classes which is an ultimate form of exercise. It helps in the complete movement of a kid's body and hence gives a complete opportunity to work out.
Exercise not only improves a child's abilities but will also help him/her to gain concentration. Kids nowadays spend a lot of time taking online classes and hence expose themselves to uncalled problems like strain, headache, and health issues.
Taking out time and doing workouts daily can save your child from these issues. Also, a regular workout helps in better sleep and makes your child energetic.
Washington, July 4 (IANS) Portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) air cleaners, together with masks, can reduce exposure to SARS-CoV-2 aerosols indoors by 90 percent, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, can be spread by exposure to droplets and aerosols of respiratory fluids that are released by infected persons when they cough, sing, talk, or exhale.
To reduce indoor transmission of SARS-CoV-2 between persons, the CDC recommends measures including maintaining physical distance, universal masking (the use of face masks in public places by everyone who is not fully vaccinated), and increasing room ventilation.
"Ventilation systems can be supplemented with portable high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaners to reduce the number of airborne infectious particles," the CDC said in a statement.
Researchers from the CDC used respiratory simulators to mimic a person with Covid-19 and other, uninfected persons in a conference room. They found HEPA air cleaners to be most effective when they were close to the aerosol source.
"Using two HEPA air cleaners close to the aerosol source reduced the aerosol exposure of the uninfected participants and speaker by up to 65 percent. A combination of HEPA air cleaners and universal masking reduced exposure by up to 90 per cent," the CDC said.
Ventilation is a well-established method for reducing potential exposures to infectious aerosols. By removing airborne particles from a room, ventilation systems can reduce exposures that occur by inhalation of infectious aerosols, deposition on susceptible mucous membranes, or conveyance to mucous membranes by contaminated hands.
During the ongoing pandemic, public health and professional organisations have provided guidance for increasing ventilation and air filtration to decrease the spread of SARS-CoV-2. The results of this study suggest that portable HEPA air cleaners can reduce exposure to SARS-CoV-2 aerosols in indoor environments, with greater reductions in exposure occurring when used in combination with universal masking, the CDC said.
Efficacy analysis demonstrates Covaxin to be 77.8 per cent effective against symptomatic COVID-19, through evaluation of 130 confirmed cases, with 24 observed in the vaccine group versus 106 in the placebo group.
Bharat Biotech has concluded final analysis for Covaxin efficacy from Phase 3 clinical trials.
Efficacy analysis demonstrates Covaxin to be 93.4 per cent effective against severe symptomatic COVID-19. Safety analysis demonstrates adverse events reported were similar to placebo, with 12 per cent of subjects experiencing commonly known side effects and less than 0.5 per cent of subjects feeling serious adverse events.
The data demonstrates 63.6 per cent protection against asymptomatic COVID-19 and efficacy data demonstrates 65.2 per cent protection against the SARS-CoV-2, B.1.617.2 Delta variant.
Bharat Biotech on Saturday announced safety and efficacy analysis data from Phase III clinical trials of Covaxin, a whole virion inactivated vaccine against SARS-CoV2, was developed in partnership with ICMR and NIV Pune.
Phase 3 clinical trials of COVAXIN was an event driven analysis of 130 symptomatic COVID-19 cases, reported at least two weeks after the 2nd dose, conducted at 25 sites across India. Covaxin is formulated with a novel Algel+IMDG adjuvant. IMDG is a TLR7/8 agonist known to induce memory T cell responses along with strong neutralizing antibodies.
The activation of cell mediated immune responses is especially valuable in a multi epitope vaccine such as Covaxin where immune protection can be achieved from S, RBD and N proteins alike. IMDG was developed under partnership between Virovax and NIAID, National Institutes of Health, USA.
Covaxin was well tolerated and the Data Safety Monitoring Board has not reported any safety concerns related to the vaccine. The overall rate of adverse events observed in COVAXIN� was lower than that seen in other Covid-19 vaccines.
The safety profile of Covaxin is now well established based on inactivated vaccines technology, and in large part due to the extensive 20-year safety track record of Bharat Biotech's vero cell manufacturing platform. Furthermore, Bharat Biotech has so far not sought indemnity for Covaxin from the Governments.
No licensed SARS-CoV-2 vaccine has reported efficacy against asymptomatic infection in a randomised controlled trial, based on qPCR testing. Covaxin is the first to report promising efficacy against asymptomatic infections based on qPCR testing that will help in reducing disease transmission.
Krishna Ella, Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Biotech, said, "The successful safety and efficacy readouts of Covaxin as a result of conducting the largest ever COVID Vaccines trials in India establishes the ability of India and developing world countries to focus towards innovation and novel product development. We are proud to state that Innovation from India will now be available to protect global populations."
Covaxin has been specifically designed to meet the needs of global distribution chains, the requirements for which are more critical in low- and middle-income countries. It has been formulated to enable shipping and long-term storage at 2-8�C. It is also formulated to adhere to a multi-dose vial policy, thereby reducing open vial wastage, saving money to procurement agencies and governments alike.
Balram Bhargava, Secretary Department of Health Research & Director General Indian Council of Medical Research, said, "I am delighted to note that Covaxin, developed by ICMR and BBIL under an effective public private partnership, has demonstrated an overall efficacy of 77.8 per cent in India's largest COVID phase 3 clinical trial thus far. Our scientists at ICMR and BBIL have worked tirelessly to deliver a truly effective vaccine of highest international standards. Covaxin will not only benefit the Indian citizens but would also immensely contribute to protect the global community against the deadly SARS-CoV-2 virus. I am also pleased to see that Covaxin works well against all variant strains of SARS-CoV-2. The successful development of Covaxin has consolidated the position of Indian academia and Industry in the global arena."
Bharat Biotech is a company driven by science and validated by empirical evidence. Its commitment to data transparency has been proven again with 10 publications on COVAXIN�, covering all aspects of product development, all within 12 months.
Bharat Biotech's commitment to continued improvement of COVAXIN� is well under way with additional clinical trials to establish safety and efficacy in children between 2-18 years of age. A clinical trial to determine the safety and immunogenicity of a booster dose is also in process. Several research activities are being carried out to study variants of concern and to assess their suitability for follow up booster doses.
Suchitra Ella, Joint Managing Director, Bharat Biotech, said, "It is a momentous day for everyone, at Bharat Biotech, as we announce the Final Phase-3 Results of COVAXIN� and its efficacy of 77.8 per cent. We sincerely thank all our employees for enduring work pressures through the pandemic & lockdowns, with 24x7 commitment amidst unprecedented number of physical challenges, stress and continuous operations. We specially thank our medical affairs team for leading the project, the technical and marketing teams who have relentlessly worked to complete the clinical trials and coordination of 25 sites across the country since May 2020."
Covaxin has been evaluated through neutralizing antibody responses against several variants of concern, namely B.1.617.2 (Delta), B.1.617.1 (Kappa), B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P2- B.1.1.28 (Gamma). The data from these studies have been extensively published in peer reviewed journals and available for review in the public domain.
Priya Abraham, Director National Institute of Virology ICMR said, "The overall efficacy of 77.8 per cent following the phase III clinical trial of Covaxin is wonderful news. ICMR-NIV and BBIL have had very fruitful interactions during this exhilarating journey. Sera from Covaxin recipients have also been evaluated against viral variants detected in India i.e., the Alpha, Beta, Zeta, Kappa and Delta. The making of this vaccine entirely on Indian soil is a matter of great pride to every Indian."
Covaxin has now received emergency use authorizations in 16 countries including, Brazil, India, Philippines, Iran, Mexico, etc with EUA's in process in 50 countries worldwide. The company is in discussions with WHO to obtain emergency Use Listing for Covaxin.
The product has been exported to several countries with additional requests for supplies being received.
Bharat Biotech has established COVAXIN� manufacturing at 4 facilities within India, further expansions are in process to reach an annualized capacity of 1 billion doses by the end of 2021. Technology transfer activities are in progress to companies in United States, and other countries.
(Courtesy: IANS)
The Tamil Nadu Health Department is keen on implementing stringent measures including wearing of masks, social distancing, and increasing the volume of tests, besides massive vaccination drives as 15 districts show fresh spike in Covid-19 cases.
On Thursday, fresh cases reported from these 15 districts showed varied increase of upto 54 cases.
Thanjavur reported 248 new cases which are 51 more than that reported on Wednesday. Madurai too, reported a slight hike cases. Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Perambalur, Villupuram, Nilgiris, Sivaganga, and Tirupathur also showed increase in cases on Thursday.
The state health department has already called upon the district administrations to immediately focus on the clusters or areas that are contributing to the new cases.
While the state has been witnessing a steady decline in Covid cases -- both active and fresh cases -- the government has been on a massive vaccination drive across the state. The slight increase in fresh cases have led the health department to send riders to the government for implementing stringent measures again.
State Health Secretary J. Radhakrishnan told IANS: "As our neighbouring states like Maharashtra and Kerala are showing a slight increase in cases, Tamil Nadu goes for focused disease containment."
Epidemiologists have already recommended focused and intensified testing as any fallout of relaxations would only reflect after a few days.
The focus is on workplace intervention strategies -- testing, screening and identification of clusters.
Suchithra V. Menon, an epidemiologist working with a research centre in Chennai told IANS: "Focus should be on clusters, whether small or big and intensified and focused testing must be conducted. The state can use antigen testing methods also to increase the speed of the results."
The state health, police, and revenue departments have geared up together to ensure that people follow Covid protocols as doctors recommend that the basic principles have to be adhered to.
(Courtesy: IANS)
Covaxin's Covid-19 jab, developed and manufactured by Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, generates antibodies that can effectively neutralise the Alpha (B117) and Delta (B1617) variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing Covid-19, the US National Institutes of Health has said citing results from two studies of blood serum from people who received the shots.
Covaxin comprises a disabled form of SARS-CoV-2 that cannot replicate but still stimulates the immune system to make antibodies against the virus.
The NIH said an adjuvant, developed by the agency, has also contributed to the success of the highly efficacious Covaxin Covid-19 vaccine, which roughly 25 million people have received to date in India and elsewhere.
Adjuvants are substances formulated as part of a vaccine to boost immune responses and enhance a vaccine's effectiveness.
"Ending a global pandemic requires a global response," said Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of NIH.
"I am pleased that a novel vaccine adjuvant developed in the United States with NIAID support is part of an efficacious Covid-19 vaccine available to people in India," he added.
The adjuvant used in Covaxin -- Alhydroxiquim-II -- was discovered and tested in the laboratory by the biotech company ViroVax LLC of Lawrence, Kansas with support exclusively from the NIAID Adjuvant Development Programme.
The adjuvant comprises a small molecule attached in a unique way to Alhydrogel, a substance frequently called alum that is the most commonly used adjuvant in vaccines for people.
Alhydroxiquim-II travels to lymph nodes, where the small molecule detaches from alum and activates two cellular receptors. These receptors, TLR7 and TLR8, play a vital role in the immune response to viruses. Alhydroxiquim-II is the first adjuvant in an authorised vaccine against an infectious disease to activate TLR7 and TLR8.
Molecules that activate TLR receptors stimulate the immune system powerfully, but the side effects of Alhydroxiquim-II are mild. This is because, after Covaxin is injected, the adjuvant travels directly to nearby lymph nodes, which contain white blood cells that play an essential role in identifying pathogens and fighting infection.
Results from a Phase 2 trial of Covaxin indicate that it is safe and well tolerated, while unpublished interim results from the Phase 3 trial indicate that the vaccine has 78 per cent efficacy against symptomatic disease, 100 per cent efficacy against severe Covid-19, including hospitalisation, and 70 per cent efficacy against asymptomatic infection with SARS-CoV-2.
Bharat Biotech signed a licensing agreement with ViroVax to use Alhydroxiquim-II in their candidate vaccines in 2019. This license was expanded during the Covid-19 pandemic to include Covaxin, which has received Emergency Use Authorization in India and more than a dozen other countries.
Bharat Biotech developed Covaxin in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Virology. Bharat Biotech expects to produce an estimated 700 million doses of Covaxin by the end of 2021.
(Courtesy: IANS)
Moderna is said to be 90 per cent effective against Covid. Like Pfizer, Moderna is an mRNA vaccine that has fragments of the genetic material known as messenger RNA.
The vaccine works by giving cells temporary instructions to make the coronavirus spike protein. The protein is found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus.
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