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Doctors in India are grappling to diagnose and treat unexplained and persistent symptoms of <keyword id="9814327" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="long-covid" source="Orion">long Covid</keyword> patients due to limited guidelines, whereas researchers have flagged inadequate studies on the condition. With the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-health-organization" source="keywords">World Health Organization</keyword> declaring an end to <keyword id="19896627" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="covid" source="keywords">Covid</keyword> as a global <keyword id="416511" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-emergency" source="Orion">health emergency</keyword> in May last year, focused efforts are underway around the world to estimate the burden of long Covid among the population. The condition refers to the set of lingering symptoms affecting varied body parts and persisting well beyond the acute Covid infection period, including cough, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, brain fog and difficulty in focusing. The viral disease is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While studies have suggested that about a third of those moderately or severely infected are likely to suffer from long Covid, region-wise though, incidence could vary. A study by researchers, including those from <keyword id="19988007" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="harvard-medical-school" source="keywords">Harvard Medical School</keyword>, US, estimated that 31 % of the once-infected people in North America, 44% in Europe, and 51% in Asia, have long Covid, which is "challenging the healthcare system, but there are limited guidelines for its treatment". It was published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases in September. In India, however, studies on long Covid are few and far between. One such study by Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, conducted from May 2022 to March 2023 on 553 patients who had recovered from Covid, found that about 45% had lingering symptoms, persistent fatigue and dry cough being the most common. "There is limited exploratory research on the long Covid syndrome with scarce data on long-term outcomes," the authors wrote in the study published in the journal Cureus in May this year. Understanding the long-term effects of the virus is important for developing management strategies, optimising healthcare delivery, and providing support to recovered Covid patients in the community, they said. Dr Rajesh Sagar, Professor of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, said, "Looking at the current state of long Covid studies in India, it is too premature to say that we understand the condition well enough to know how to diagnose or treat it." Animesh Samanta, assistant professor at School of Natural Sciences in <keyword id="19897094" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shiv-nadar-university" source="keywords">Shiv Nadar University</keyword>, Greater Noida, said, "While studies in India highlight the growing recognition of neurological complications in long Covid patients, more focused research on neuroinflammation is needed." Doctors, too, have reported a rise in patients complaining of symptoms that they did not have pre-Covid. "People who never had <keyword id="6465125" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="asthma" source="Orion">asthma</keyword> in the past, post-Covid, with every viral infection, they get a long cough, shortness of breath and wheezing, which require the use of <keyword id="31257" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="inhalers" source="Orion">inhalers</keyword> or nebuliser," senior consultant Dr Neetu Jain, who runs a post-Covid care clinic at Pushpawati Singhania Hospital and Research Institute, New Delhi, said. Dr Arun Garg, chairman, Neurology and Neurosciences, Medanta-The Medicity, Gurugram, said he was noticing a spike in stroke cases among young patients not suffering from known risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity. "Similarly, we are seeing more cases of encephalopathy (swelling of the brain) without reason and having a confused state of mind following one or two days of fever. Their MRI scans show no changes. These patients have increased significantly after Covid," he said. In the absence of medical guidelines to diagnose long Covid, doctors are having to resort to broad, non-specific tests and questionnaires to gauge a patient's 'quality of life'. Studies have shown that the fatigue experienced in long Covid is similar to that in cancer patients, with a quality of life similar to patients of Parkinson's disease. "We really do not have any test to diagnose long Covid, even though it is definitely a clinical diagnosis. We diagnose long Covid for people who had at least moderate to severe infection, following which they could never regain the quality of life pre-Covid. Checking for inflammatory markers like C-reactive proteins (CRP) can support the diagnosis," Dr Jain said. "Other than routine blood tests that measure inflammation, we do antibody tests to look for direct markers. In many of these patients, we are finding rare antibodies which are very new to us and were not there pre-Covid," Dr Garg said. Inflammation persisting despite recovery from acute Covid infection is thought to lie at the heart of long Covid. However, tests to measure this specific immune response are lacking, even as researchers have been working in this direction worldwide. One such effort comes from Shiv Nadar University, where a team led by Samanta has developed a fluorescent probe capable of detecting inflammation in brain cells that can arise due to Covid infection. The probe measures nitric oxide levels in brain cells, especially in human microglia cells, where increased NO levels are linked to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Microglia are immune cells in the brain that fight disease and help maintain brain health. Lysosomes within microglia, which help clear foreign disease-causing agents like the SARS-CoV-2 virus, produce nitric oxide as part of an immune response to infection. The probe detects nitric oxide produced in lysosomes in response to infection and thereby allows for a measurement of inflammation levels. This examination method can provide "qualitative information on infection status", said Samanta, corresponding author on the study published in the journal Analytical Chemistry in American Chemical Society. He explained that patients with pre-existing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis (an autoimmune disorder) could exhibit prolonged neuroinflammation and loss of brain cells following Covid infection. While the probe has shown efficacy in cell cultures, animal studies would need to be done, before testing it in humans, Samanta said. Looking at the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, the study by Harvard Medical School had found that 587 clinical studies were conducted on long Covid, of which about 53% (312) were testing potential treatments. Most of these were found to be conducted in the US (58), followed by India (55) and Spain (20). The trials looked at interventions including physical exercise, psychotherapy, and pharmacological ones such as paxlovid and fluvoxamine. However, "to date, only 11 of these 312 studies have published their results that were not confirmative," the researchers wrote. The team called for studies to look into sleep disorders which were rarely included in the registered clinical studies. Further, interventions targeting the biological processes responsible for long Covid are needed but currently lacking, they said.

Doctors struggle to treat long Covid patients in India; researchers point to inadequate studies

The <keyword id="23195354" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="COVID-XEC" source="keywords">COVID XEC</keyword> variant has recently gained attention due to its <keyword id="23204106" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rapid-spread" source="keywords">rapid spread</keyword> across Europe and concerns that it might soon become dominant. First identified in Germany in June 2024, the variant has since been detected in over a dozen countries, including the UK and the US. As with other variants of <keyword id="20249557" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="SARS-CoV-2" source="keywords">SARS-CoV-2</keyword>, <keyword id="23204107" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="xec" source="keywords">XEC</keyword> is a subvariant of <keyword id="19895062" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="omicron" source="keywords">Omicron</keyword>, and the symptoms of the disease caused by the KP.3 lineage virus largely mirror those of previous strains, including fever, cough, sore throat, headaches, and muscle aches. <h2>Is XEC more dangerous?</h2>Although the XEC has shown signs of being more contagious than other recent variants, experts do not believe it poses a greater risk of severe disease for most people. Dr Eric Topol, a leading voice in COVID research, suggests that while XEC may soon outcompete other subvariants due to its <keyword id="20551797" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="transmissibility" source="keywords">transmissibility</keyword>, <keyword id="23043733" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="existing-vaccines" source="keywords">existing vaccines</keyword> should still offer protection. This is because XEC remains an <keyword id="19919614" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Omicron-subvariant" source="keywords">Omicron subvariant</keyword>, meaning it shares enough genetic similarity for current vaccines to be effective. <h2>Should you be worried?</h2>While XEC is spreading, experts emphasise that its arrival doesn’t signal a drastic shift in the COVID landscape. It’s not a new strain requiring another Greek letter designation, and it hasn't been shown to cause more severe disease compared to other Omicron subvariants. However, with colder months approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, where <keyword id="20163355" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="respiratory-infections" source="keywords">respiratory infections</keyword> typically increase, XEC’s impact might be more noticeable. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113246996" title="Mpox outbreak: Understand what your insurance covers for Mpox treatment" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>While the new COVID XEC has begun to rapidly spread across Europe, North America, and some parts of Asia, fortunately, there have not yet been confirmed reports of the variant reaching India. To reduce your risk, it's essential to stay up to date with vaccinations, practise good hygiene, and remain vigilant, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces. While we’re no longer in the early stages of the pandemic, <keyword id="19897423" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="COVID-19" source="keywords">COVID-19</keyword> remains unpredictable, and experts continue to monitor variants like XEC closely.

COVID XEC: Should you worry about the new fast-spreading Omicron subvariant?

<keyword id="19897423" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="COVID-19" source="keywords">COVID-19</keyword>, the unwelcome guest that never quite leaves, may well be in the process of ushering in a fresh global wave, with <keyword id="6356662" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="singapore" source="Orion">Singapore</keyword> potentially on the front lines. The Singapore government is on alert, with its Ministry of Health reporting a significant rise in COVID-19 cases. There was a doubling of infections in the first half of May, with the numbers increasing from 13,700 in the first week of this month to 25,900 in the second (May 5 to 11). Hospitalisations have also spiked, with average daily admissions rising from 181 to around 250 in the same period. To manage hospital bed capacity, public hospitals have been directed to reduce non-urgent elective surgeries and transfer suitable patients to care facilities. Health Minister <keyword id="19895083" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ong-Ye-Kung" source="keywords">Ong Ye Kung</keyword> has indicated that Singapore is in the early stages of this wave, which is expected to peak between mid- and end-June. Recognising Singapore's role as a major transport and communications hub, Ong has acknowledged that the city-state is likely to experience COVID-19 waves earlier than other regions. An uptick in infection numbers has also been observed in the neighbouring countries as well, including Philippines. However, no alarming rise in hospitalisation has been reported yet. Regional reports are attributing this surge to new COVID-19 variants, collectively termed FLiRT. This name is based on the technical names for their mutations, one of which includes the letters "F" and "L", and another, the letters "R" and "T". The FLiRT group comprises of variants KP.1, KP.2, KP.3, JN.1.1 and JN.1.7. At present, KP.1 and KP.2 make up over two-thirds of cases in Singapore. While the WHO has classified KP.2 as a variant under monitoring, there is no evidence suggesting these variants are more transmissible or cause more severe illness than existing strains. Nevertheless, Ong has urged high-risk groups, including those aged 60 and above, medically vulnerable individuals, and residents of aged care facilities, to receive an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose if they haven't been vaccinated in the past year. The public has also been advised to consider wearing masks again. Ong emphasised that there are no current plans for social restrictions, as Singapore treats COVID-19 as an <keyword id="21743830" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="endemic-disease" source="keywords">endemic disease</keyword>. He noted that additional measures would only be considered as a last resort. “COVID-19 is just something that we have to live with. Every year, we should expect one or two waves,” he said. Meanwhile, 91 cases of the <keyword id="21640619" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="FLiRT-variants" source="keywords">FLiRT variants</keyword> have been detected in India. However, there have been no reports of severe cases or unique symptoms associated with these variants so far. (With inputs from TOI)

FLiRT-ing with pandemic! With a sharp rise in COVID cases, could Singapore be witnessing the start of a global wave?

With hundreds of finger-licking preparations, India loves chicken in a way that may be indescribable to a non-resident. However, with the way things are progressing in the avian world, we could soon see a surge in disdain for the delectable meat, and in perhaps the same way the masses denounced bats during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a surprising and alarming twist, <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07849-4">new research</a> has found that <keyword id="20633083" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="avian-influenza" source="keywords">avian influenza</keyword>, or <keyword id="20396857" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="bird-flu" source="keywords">bird flu</keyword>, has jumped from birds to dairy cattle across many parts of the United States. Initially detected in wild birds, the <keyword id="21348322" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="H5N1" source="keywords">H5N1</keyword> had led to symptoms like reduced appetite, respiratory distress, and a significant drop in milk production. "This is one of the first times that we are seeing evidence of efficient and sustained mammalian-to-mammalian transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1," said Diego Diel, a virology expert who has written extensively about the topic. As per the new report, significant amounts of the virus has now been identified in the mammary glands of infected cows, meaning their milk itself has the ability to infect others. Researchers have even documented cases where cats and a raccoon became infected, likely from consuming the raw milk from infected cows. Although pasteurisation has shown the ability to kill the virus, the newfound ability to jump from cows to other mammals remains particularly troubling, especially considering how reliant we are on cow products such as beef and milk. <h2>Human cases and <keyword id="22448349" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pandemic-potential" source="keywords">pandemic potential</keyword></h2>If you’re feeling comfortable in the thought that the virus has some ways to go before humans need to be concerned, you might want to think again. So far, 11 human cases have already been reported in the US, primarily linked to cattle and <keyword id="20524711" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="poultry-farms" source="keywords">poultry farms</keyword>. While these cases have resulted in mild symptoms, experts worry that the virus could mutate, enhancing its transmissibility among humans. This possibility is a significant concern for scientists and health authorities. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="109054967" title="Scientists warn of bird flu pandemic that could be &amp;#39;100 times worse&amp;#39; than COVID after rare human case found in US" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Further, as viruses do, H5N1 is already evolving at a rapid pace. A <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1101/2024.07.14.603367">separate study </a>led by researchers at UNC Charlotte found that the latest variants of H5N1 are getting better at evading antibodies, including those in humans. According to the researchers, these mutations could potentially lead the virus towards pandemic status if it continues to adapt and spread among mammals. <h2>Will developing nations be able to cope?</h2>Given these developments, continuous monitoring of the virus in both animals and humans is critical. The US Department of Agriculture has funded H5N1 testing programs to detect and manage outbreaks early. Enhanced biosecurity measures and quarantine protocols will undoubtedly be critical to prevent the virus from spreading to pandemic levels. However, this is a task much easier said than done for developing countries, who often lack the infrastructure and resources needed for such robust surveillance and response. Many of these countries have limited access to advanced diagnostic tools, vaccines, and antiviral treatments. This disparity leaves large portions of the global population vulnerable to the spread of H5N1. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="110941217" title="WHO confirms human case of bird flu in India! H9N2 virus detected in a four-year child in West Bengal" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>The World Health Organization has repeatedly stressed the need for global cooperation and support to strengthen health systems in underprepared regions. Without adequate resources, these countries may struggle to detect and contain the virus, potentially allowing it to spread unchecked. This not only endangers local populations but also increases the risk of a global pandemic. The implications of these studies are clear: the H5N1 virus is moving closer to pandemic potential. As it spreads among mammals, the risk of it adapting to humans increases. The world needs to prepare now to avoid being caught off guard, as was the case with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cows are now spreading bird flu to each other — here's why that's problematic for humans

<ul><li>The Indian government has revised its COVID surveillance strategy as the daily cases are plateauing over 2,000.</li><li>Patients who show all the <keyword id="403871" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="flu-symptoms" source="Orion">flu symptoms</keyword> like fever, cold and cough would be tested.</li><li>Only selective 6-8 lakh RT-PCR tests are being conducted every day, as per media reports.</li></ul><keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> has been reporting over 2,000 COVID-19 cases every day for a while now. And now the government has decided to widen the net by selectively conducting 6-8 lakh RT-PCR tests per day, as per a <a href="https://www.livemint.com/news/india/india-revises-its-covid-19-surveillance-strategy-11652723249638.html">report</a> by LiveMint. It will test people with flu-like symptoms of cold, cough and fever. “Now RT-PCR testing is being done for those patients with symptoms like fever, cough and cold or with flu-like symptoms visiting at the sentinel sites such as hospitals,” said a government official who wished to remain anonymous. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Government tests more to study the virus patterns" comment="subhead" text="Government tests more to study the virus patterns">Government tests more to study the virus patterns</cmsannotation> After the third Covid wave, a lot of people have rated the pandemic causing virus as ‘mild’; refusing to visit the hospitals or even test. This new strategy intends to keep a close watch on the virus and its patterns for scientists to study it closely. The third wave in India, between December and January, caused by the new Omicron variant was milder and less severe than the lethal second wave, last summer. A good reason behind this could be the increased vaccination levels. Over 33 crore people have received two doses of the vaccine and 73.2 crore received at least the first dose. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What is sewage testing?" comment="subhead" text="What is sewage testing?">What is sewage testing?</cmsannotation> The government is also known to have expanded sewage sample surveillance. “Sewage samples let us know that if cases are going to increase in any particular area, the viral load in the sample increases,” said another official. Sewage testing involves surveillance and monitoring of the sewage water or the water that we flush down the toilets. The virus needs a host cell to survive and the technique involves looking out for the genetic material or the RNA fragments of the virus in wastewater, <a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/coronavirus-how-water-flushed-down-our-toilets-can-help-track-covid-19-know-all-about-sewage-testing/photostory/90440727.cms">as per a Times of India report.</a> Patients who are infected release virus fragments from their bodies through urine and feces. Once flushed, the virus disintegrates and leaves fragments behind. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/lic-stock-falls-8-on-listing-day-but-still-beats-hul-and-icici-to-become-indias-fifth-most-valued-company/articleshow/91609556.cms">LIC stock falls 8% on listing day, but still beats HUL and ICICI to become India’s fifth most valued company</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/twitter-chief-says-the-company-suspends-over-half-a-million-spam-accounts-each-day-as-elon-musk-puts-his-acquisition-deal-on-hold/articleshow/91609899.cms">Twitter chief says the company suspends over half a million spam accounts each day as Elon Musk puts his acquisition deal on hold</a>

India starts testing flu patients ‘selectively’ as COVID numbers plateau

<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> has reported its first confirmed case of <keyword id="20134986" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Monkeypox" source="keywords">Monkeypox</keyword> (<keyword id="20965747" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mpox" source="keywords">Mpox</keyword>) caused by the highly transmissible <keyword id="22812233" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Clade-1B" source="keywords">Clade 1B</keyword> strain, marking a significant moment in the country’s ongoing battle against the <keyword id="20542503" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="viral-disease" source="keywords">viral disease</keyword>. According to sources in the <keyword id="19896140" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Health-Ministry" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Health Ministry" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Health Ministry">Health Ministry</keyword>, this case involves a patient from <keyword id="19896018" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Kerala" source="keywords">Kerala</keyword> <keyword id="19895006" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WHO" source="keywords">who</keyword> had recently returned from Dubai. The World Health Organization (WHO) had recently raised concerns about the spread of Mpox, classifying it as a disease of international concern, especially as new, more infectious strains emerge. While Mpox has appeared in India before, all prior cases were linked to the less deadly Clade II strain. <h2>A new, more <keyword id="22892041" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="transmissible-strain" source="keywords">transmissible strain</keyword></h2>The case in Kerala is the first in India involving Clade 1B, a variant known for its higher transmission rate and increased mortality compared to previous strains. A Health Ministry official confirmed that the patient is currently in stable condition and that rigorous contact tracing efforts are underway to prevent further spread. This response follows India’s earlier experience with Mpox, where over 30 cases were recorded between 2022 and 2024, predominantly from travellers returning from African nations where the disease remains endemic. <h2>Mpox symptoms and spread</h2>Mpox manifests through typical viral symptoms, including fever, headaches, and muscle pain, eventually leading to skin rashes or lesions. These rashes often emerge a few days after the fever and vary in appearance, sometimes resembling fluid-filled blisters that crust over and heal within a few weeks. However, while symptoms usually resolve without intervention, the disease can lead to serious complications and, in rare instances, death. Unlike COVID-19 or influenza, Mpox is not airborne. Its primary mode of transmission is through close physical contact, particularly skin-to-skin contact or exposure to contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing. Sexual transmission is also a significant factor in the spread of the disease. Health experts stress the importance of maintaining strict hygiene practices and ensuring that caregivers use personal protective equipment when attending to infected individuals. <h2>Health Ministry's preparedness</h2>In light of this new development, the Indian government is taking preventive measures to contain the situation. Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has issued directives to states and Union Territories, urging them to ensure isolation facilities are readily available for suspected or confirmed cases. These measures also include ramping up resources such as trained healthcare personnel and medical supplies. While there is no immediate risk of a widespread outbreak, authorities are adopting a cautious approach to avoid any potential escalation. Recent cases, such as one involving a resident of Hisar, Haryana, demonstrate the country’s ongoing efforts to monitor, isolate, and treat Mpox cases effectively. (With inputs from agencies)

More transmissible, higher fatality rate: India records first case of fast-spreading Mpox strain Clade 1B in Kerala man

Ever since the virus reared its ugly head and briefly sent the world into despair, the coronavirus has remained a staple, albeit almost sidelined, part of the news cycle. Despite this, the topic has come to the forefront of controversy once again, with an extremely popular <keyword id="20040659" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="COVID-19-vaccine" source="keywords">COVID-19 vaccine</keyword> now under scrutiny. Considering that the world is still healing from the scars left behind by the coronavirus tragedy, it is imperative that we gauge the situation to avoid any unwarranted public paranoia. Let’s look at the facts behind the ongoing <keyword id="19910149" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AstraZeneca" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="AstraZeneca" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="AstraZeneca">AstraZeneca</keyword> (or <keyword id="19960109" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="covishield" source="keywords">Covishield</keyword>, as it is known in India) vaccine controversy, and determine if there really is a cause for worry. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="What happened?" comment="subhead" text="What happened?">What happened?</cmsannotation> Shortly after receiving the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in 2021, UK-based <keyword id="21472612" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="jamie-scott" source="keywords">Jamie Scott</keyword> experienced a harrowing ordeal. He developed a brain clot and severe bleeding, resulting in permanent brain injury. This condition, known as <keyword id="21475609" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Thrombosis-with-Thrombocytopenia-Syndrome" source="keywords">Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome</keyword> (<keyword id="20218859" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tts" source="keywords">TTS</keyword>), can lead to dangerously low blood clot and platelet levels, posing a grave risk to those affected. Jamie's struggles with memory loss, impaired vision, and diminished cognitive abilities compelled him to seek legal recourse against the pharmaceutical company in 2023. Jamie's legal representative contends that AstraZeneca minimized the potential risks linked to their vaccines. Moreover, reports indicate that over 50 vaccinated individuals experienced similar adverse conditions, with numerous cases resulting in fatalities or severe injuries. Despite these assertions, the pharmaceutical company refutes the allegations, stating that they do not acknowledge a causal relationship between the vaccine and Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) on a generic level. However, a year of court wrangling later, legal documents submitted by AstraZeneca have now admitted that their vaccine can cause TTS in very rare cases, although the causal mechanism is still not well known. This revelation has led to renewed uproar against the vaccine’s side-effects. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Is there cause for worry?" comment="subhead" text="Is there cause for worry?">Is there cause for worry?</cmsannotation> In short words, not really. Links between the <keyword id="21483117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AstraZeneca-vaccine" source="keywords">AstraZeneca vaccine</keyword> and vaccine-induced immune TTS have been scientifically identified since early 2021, soon after the first COVID-19 vaccines had come out. However, it is so very rare — a few dozen reported cases among the millions administered — that even the World Health Organisation has deemed the vaccine “safe and effective” for all individuals aged 18 and above. Moreover, even influenza, H1N1 and rabies vaccines can cause TTS in very rare instances. Further, it is important to note that an infection with COVID-19 is itself a major cause for clot, heart attacks and strokes. Being vaccinated actually lowers these risks. There is also the fact that all vaccines or drugs carry potential side-effects, and these medical interventions are only cleared for release after determining that their benefits vastly outweigh any complications. Finally, the <keyword id="21483118" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="TTS-side-effects" source="keywords">TTS side-effects</keyword> — which include symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, chest pain, leg swelling or tiny blood spots under the skin — manifest between 1-6 weeks of vaccination. Considering that most Indians received their Covishield jab a couple of years ago, there should be no reason to panic now. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Is it time to consider alternate vaccines?" comment="subhead" text="Is it time to consider alternate vaccines?">Is it time to consider alternate vaccines?</cmsannotation> There is no particular hard evidence that suggests the supremacy of one vaccine over another, considering that they all carry varying degrees of side-effects. That being said, <keyword id="9485939" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="covaxin" source="Orion">Covaxin</keyword> boasts a higher efficacy than Covishield, and has better research data among Indian subjects. However, it may also be important to know that the administration of the AstraZeneca vaccine has been discontinued in many countries, mainly due the aforementioned risk of blood clotting in certain age groups. Whatever the choice, the fact of the matter remains that these vaccines have saved millions since their introduction, and it is pertinent that we continue taking them diligently, unless any premier health authorities recommend otherwise.

Should you be worried about the potential side-effects of the Covishield vaccine?

<ul><li>Around 1 in 10 people suffer at least one moderate-to-severe symptom after the virus has left the body, and recovery may take a few months. </li><li>These symptoms are not limited to those with mild infections, or those with comorbidities or the old, the young and healthy, too, are experiencing post-Covid symptom </li><li>A mild fever of around 99-99.6°F may last a few weeks. No medication is required. Occasionally, one can take an antipyretic like paracetamol to get relief.</li></ul>The deluge brought forth by the pandemic just doesn't seem to quit, and those who have managed to sail through the main part are greeted by a host of ailments even at the other side -- some even lasting months after the initial infection. And these symptoms are not limited to those with mild infections, or those with comorbidities or the old, the young and healthy, too, are experiencing post-Covid symptoms. In fact, around <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20210412/the-most-common-lingering-symptoms-after-mild-covid">1 in 10 people</a> suffer at least one moderate-to-severe symptom after the virus has left the body, and recovery may take a few months. Dr Vipin Vashishtha — former convener, Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Committee on Immunisation, and paediatrician at Mangla Hospital and Research Centre in Uttar Pradesh — highlights some of the common symptoms that linger even after recovery. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none; table-layout: fixed; width: 468pt;" class="redcator-table-advance"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Common short-term symptoms </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Common long-term symptoms </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Symptoms to watch out for and need medical intervention </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"><ul><li>Loss of smell -- </li><li>Loss of taste -- </li><li>Shortness of breath -- </li><li>Fatigue</li></ul></td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"><ul><li>Low-grade fever and malaise -- </li><li>Muscle/joint pain</li><li>Cough - </li><li>Sleeping disorder with insomnia -- </li><li>Palpitations -- </li><li>Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation, and dyspepsia -- </li><li>Concentration impairment -- </li><li>Memory impairment -- </li><li>Headache -- </li><li>Neuro-psychiatric/Psychological symptoms</li></ul></td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;"><ul><li>Sudden onset of breathlessness, especially at rest -- </li><li>Chest pain -- </li><li>Sudden onset of increased heart rate while walking -- </li><li>Weakness of limbs or one half of body </li></ul></td></tr></tbody><tbody></tbody></table> Mild symptoms that will eventually give way without intervention: <ul><li>Loss of smell (Anosmia) </li><li>Loss of taste (Ageusia)</li><li>Shortness of breath (Dyspnea)</li><li>Fatigue</li></ul>All of these symptoms are minor and typically do not need any specific treatment and subsides their own. Other common symptoms that may last for few weeks to months: <ul><li>Low-grade fever and malaise: Mild fever of around 99-99.6°F may last a few weeks. No medication is required. Occasionally, one can take an antipyretic like paracetamol to get relief. However, if the patient experiences spikes with chills, they should consult a doctor to rule out any secondary infection.</li><li>Muscle/joint pain: Usually lasts for 2-4 weeks, but in few instances may persist for a few months. A good nutritious diet along with plenty of fluids, juices, vitamins, etc., may help.</li><li>Post-covid Cough: Usually last for 2-3 weeks may last up to 2-3 months. One may take a cough suppressant — mucolytics, expectorant, bronchodilators like inhalers, among others — depending upon the type of cough.</li><li>Sleeping disorder with insomnia: Yoga, pranayama, mild exercise may be needed.</li><li>Palpitations (racing heart): No specific treatment required. Avoid excessive, strenuous workouts.</li><li>Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation, and dyspepsia: Symptomatic treatment like oral rehydration solution (ORS), fluids, soft diet, laxatives, etc., may be needed.</li><li>Concentration impairment: May resolve spontaneously.</li><li>Memory impairment: A good diet, mild exercise, and sleep hygiene may help.</li><li>Headache: Can be relieved by antipyretics-anti-inflammatory drugs.</li><li>Neuro-psychiatric/psychological symptoms: Rarely need any specific medication.</li></ul>Red flags/warning signs: The following signs should be looked into and are dangerous. One should not take them lightly, and immediate referral is required. <ol><li>The sudden onset of breathlessness, especially at rest: This may be a signal of pulmonary embolism, a severe condition due to clot formation.</li></ol>This is a severe condition in which one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a blood clot. It is often caused by blood clots that travel from the legs, or rarely, other parts of the body (deep vein thrombosis or DVT). Recovered patients may experience chest pain while breathing, light-headedness or low oxygen in the body, fast heart rate or palpitations, fast breathing, shortness of breath, and dry cough. Other signs and symptoms to watch out for are <ul><li>Fever.</li><li>Leg pain or swelling, or both, usually in the calf, caused by a deep vein thrombosis.</li><li>Clammy or discoloured skin (cyanosis).</li></ul>One must immediately consult their physician. 2. Chest pain: May be a sign of heart attack, i.e. myocardial infarction, again due to a thrombus formation. This is also seen in pulmonary embolism. Even recovered COVID-19 patients who haven't had any pre-existing heart conditions are experiencing discomfort, fullness and cardiac complications. Instances of myocardial complications are one of the most common post-COVID issues patients are experiencing. 3. Sudden onset of tachycardia (faster heart rate) while walking: May be a sign of pulmonary embolism 4. Weakness of limbs or one half of the body: May denote cerebral stroke or thromboembolism. Some other major complications include the following: <ol><li>Lung fibrosis: SARS-COV-2 virus mainly attacks your lungs that may cause scarring of the respiratory organs, leading to a condition called fibrosis. Because the virus is essentially a respiratory infection, it can start to 'clot' parts of your respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties. Given that the organs take time to heal, patients experience bouts of breathlessness, fatigue, low oxygen saturation long after testing negative. </li><li>Renal damage: Studies have shown that in severe Coronavirus cases, the kidneys may be damaged, the effects of which last a long time. This is also happening to those who had no kidney-related issues. In some cases, patients have to undergo <a href="https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-kidney-damage-caused-by-covid19">dialysis</a>. This is primarily being seen in patients who have pre-existing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.</li><li>Cognitive decline and brain fog: Brain fog, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a decreased quality of life are other symptoms experienced by severe cases, post-recovery. These issues should not be taken lightly and must be addressed as they could affect your recovery period. Some patients also experience memory loss, confusion, forgetfulness, likening them to dementia-like signs.</li></ol>

These are the key post-Covid symptoms experienced and here is what to make of it

Disclaimer: This article should not be taken as medical advice <ul><li><keyword id="10661219" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="low-grade-fever" source="Orion">Low grade fever</keyword> is a type of fever in which the temperature is slightly above the normal range, but below what would be considered a fever.</li><li>It can occur for several reasons and may be accompanied by other symptoms.</li><li>The easiest way to determine if you have a low-grade fever — or any fever — is to simply take your temperature.</li></ul>Feeling tired or exhausted? Or just not feeling right? You may have a low-grade fever. Low grade fever is a type of fever in which the temperature is slightly above the normal range, but below what would be considered a fever. Fevers are common and can happen for a variety of reasons at different severity levels. According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a person with temperature at or above 100.4 fahrenheit or 38 degree Celsius is considered to have a fever. What causes low grade fever or possible reasons behind low grade fever? Low grade fevers can occur for several reasons and may be accompanied by other symptoms. According to late renowned cardiologist, K K Aggarwal, low grade fever can be caused due to cold, flu, <keyword id="8763838" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Covid-19" source="Orion">COVID-19</keyword>, tuberculosis (TB), exertion or tiredness. He further said, “When we have low grade fever which is persistent, then we look for COVID-19 and TB. Low grade fever can happen in TB as well and can last upto 6 months. It is very rare that you might have low grade fever due to major diseases like cancer or TB and now COVID-19 also.” “In COVID-19, the low grade fever can last upto 3 months. Nowadays, this is very common especially after COVID,” said Aggarwal in one of his videos posted on his Youtube channel. Fevers can occur more often in those who suffer from flus than in those who suffer from colds. However, fevers that occur during colds are more likely to be low-grade fevers, whereas fevers that occur with the flu can be low-grade or more severe. Possible signs and symptoms of low-grade fever The easiest way to determine if you have a low-grade fever — or any fever — is to simply take your temperature. However, in addition to a raised temperature, there are other signs of fever, as per Vicks, an American medications brand — <ol><li>Warm skin</li><li>A flushed face</li><li>Glassy eyes</li><li>Chills or shivering</li><li>Sweating</li><li>Headache</li><li>Muscle ache</li><li>Coughs</li><li>Sore throat</li></ol>How can you treat a low grade fever? <ol><li>The best way to treat low grade fever is to take a complete rest and drink a lot of fluids.</li><li>Consult your doctor if your fever is accompanied by severe headache, sore throat, stiff neck, shortness of breath or unusual signs.</li><li>Place a cold, damp washcloth on your forehead or the back of your neck while you’re resting.</li></ol>SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/india-clocks-over-90000-fresh-covid-19-cases-and-325-deaths-in-the-last-24-hours/articleshow/88726971.cms">India clocks over 90,000 fresh COVID-19 cases and 325 deaths in the last 24 hours</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/delhi-likely-to-report-14000-new-covid-19-cases-on-thursday-says-health-minister-satyendar-jain/articleshow/88728807.cms">Delhi likely to report 14,000 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, says Health Minister Satyendar Jain</a>

Is low grade fever a symptom of COVID-19?

<ul><li>The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (<keyword id="40458" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="AIIMS">AIIMS</keyword>) and Indian Council of Medical Research (<keyword id="6364396" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="ICMR">ICMR</keyword>) have combinedly issued new guidelines for treatment of mild, moderate and severe cases of COVID-19.</li><li>In case of mild COVID-19, AIIMS guidelines recommend home isolation and care.</li><li>For full details, check out the list below.</li></ul>The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have combinedly issued new guidelines to identify COVID-19 treatment based on three levels of seriousness – mild, moderate and severe. With COVID-19 cases exploding across India and hospitals facing acute shortage of oxygen and other critical requirements, it’s important for you to keep a track of your health, and identify <keyword id="8889783" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Covid-19-symptoms">COVID-19 symptoms</keyword> early. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Treatment of mild COVID-19 cases" comment="subhead" text="Treatment of mild COVID-19 cases">Treatment of mild COVID-19 cases</cmsannotation> In case you have a mild case of COVID-19, you can avoid the trip to the hospital and take care of yourself at home. Here’s what the new AIIMS guidelines suggest: How to identify A patient is said to have mild COVID-19 in case they have upper respiratory tract symptoms and/or fever without shortness of breath or hypoxia. Hypoxia means there is a shortage of adequate supply of oxygen at the tissue level. It can be identified by checking SpO2 levels using an oximeter. SpO2 levels should be between 92% to 98%, anything lower than 92% is considered as hypoxia. Suggestions AIIMS guidelines suggest home isolation and care. MUST DO <ul><li>Physical distancing, indoor mask use and strict hand hygiene.</li><li>Symptomatic management (hydration, antipyretics, antitussive, multivitamins).</li><li>Stay in contact with the treating physician.</li><li>Monitor temperature and oxygen saturation (by applying a SpO2 probe to fingers).</li></ul>Seek immediate medical attention if: <ul><li>Difficulty in breathing.</li><li>High grade fever/severe cough, particularly if it lasts for more than five days.</li><li>A low threshold to be kept for those with any of the high-risk features.</li></ul>MAY DO Note that these therapies are based on low certainty of evidence. <ul><li>Tab Ivermectin (200 mcg/kg once a day for 3 days). Avoid in case of pregnant and lactating women.</li></ul>OR <ul><li>Tab HCQ (400 mg twice for 1 day, followed by 400 mg once daily for 4 days) unless contraindicated.</li></ul>Inhalational Budesonide (given via Metered dose inhaler/ Dry powder inhaler) at a dose of 800 mcg twice for five days) to be given if symptoms (fever and/or cough) are persistent beyond five days of disease onset. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/policy/article/if-the-covid-19-vaccine-prices-are-too-high-for-some-then-why-not-use-direct-benefit-transfer/articleshow/82200370.cms">If the COVID-19 vaccine prices are too high for some, then why not use direct benefit transfer</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/while-covid-19-is-making-millions-gasp-for-breath-in-india-state-administrations-are-trying-to-hoard-oxygen/articleshow/82199390.cms">The COVID-19 crisis in India is getting worse with state administrations trying to hoard oxygen</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/covid-19-lockdowns-and-curfews-affecting-worlds-fourth-largest-automobile-market/articleshow/82195326.cms">There is a virtual lockdown in the world’s fourth largest automobile market</a>

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