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Imagine taking a deep breath, expecting fresh, clean air, but instead, inhaling particles so tiny they’re invisible but powerful enough to change your life. For millions worldwide, that’s the reality — and it’s taking a toll on their lungs. A new global study shows that nearly 30% of <keyword id="22476122" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="asthma-cases" source="keywords">asthma cases</keyword> can be traced back to long-term exposure to <keyword id="20147117" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="fine-particulate-matter" source="keywords">fine particulate matter</keyword>, or <keyword id="20573061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="PM2-5" source="keywords">PM2.5</keyword>, the kind of pollution that often comes from cars, factories, and even cooking fires. <h2>How PM2.5 impacts asthma</h2>Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by recurring symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. While the exact causes of asthma remain complex and varied, this new study underlines that PM2.5 pollution is a significant risk factor. The study brings together insights from 68 epidemiological studies conducted across 22 countries, spanning regions from North America to South Asia. This comprehensive meta-analysis demonstrates the consistent impact of PM2.5 on asthma development. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114504550" title="Most people miss THIS warning on their mosquito repellent vaporizer’s label" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Lead author Dr Ruijing Ni explained, “We estimate that globally in 2019, almost a third of asthma cases are attributable to long-term PM2.5 exposure, corresponding to 63.5 million existing cases and 11.4 million new cases.” <h2>The Indian asthma problem</h2>India, one of the world’s most polluted countries, faces a particularly severe burden from <keyword id="19900550" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-pollution" source="keywords">air pollution</keyword>. Studies have shown that PM2.5 levels in many Indian cities far exceed the <keyword id="19896311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Health-Organization" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Health Organization" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="World Health Organization">World Health Organization</keyword>'s safe limit of 5 µg/m³. This exposure is especially dangerous for children, whose lungs and immune systems are still developing. The numbers are worrying: around 15-20 million Indians suffer from asthma, making up a significant portion of the estimated 339 million cases worldwide. Children are disproportionately affected; a 2019 report indicated that approximately 6% of children aged 1 to 5 in India show asthma symptoms. This exposure often results in airway inflammation and oxidative stress, which increases vulnerability to <keyword id="19923193" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="respiratory-diseases" source="keywords">respiratory diseases</keyword>. <h2>What the data says</h2>The research team employed exposure-response curves to better understand the link between PM2.5 levels and asthma cases. By considering data from both high-income and low- and middle-income countries, the researchers could provide a more accurate global assessment of PM2.5’s <keyword id="21037424" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-impact" source="keywords">health impact</keyword>. The study found that in Germany, for instance, PM2.5 may be responsible for about 11% of new asthma cases — roughly 28,000 people. However, the burden is even higher in low- and middle-income countries like India, where higher levels of pollution are coupled with limited healthcare access. This disparity highlights the need for global action to reduce PM2.5 emissions, especially in regions where pollution levels and health impacts are most severe. <h2>Policy implications and recommendations</h2>The findings have clear implications for policymakers. Strengthening <keyword id="19918941" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-quality" source="keywords">air quality</keyword> regulations, especially in high-exposure regions, could prevent millions of new asthma cases and reduce healthcare costs. “Our findings highlight the urgent need for policymakers to enforce stringent legislation to continuously combat air pollution,” emphasised another study author Prof. Yafang Cheng. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="114695519" title="Are your green firecrackers really ‘green? Here’s all you need to know before doing your Diwali shopping" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In addition to governmental measures, personal protective actions like wearing masks and installing air purifiers in homes can also help individuals reduce their exposure to PM2.5, particularly during high-pollution periods. This study adds to the growing evidence that reducing air pollution is critical for public health. While global challenges like PM2.5 pollution may seem daunting, each step toward cleaner air can bring significant health benefits. For countries like India, where asthma rates and pollution levels are both alarmingly high, these findings underscore an urgent need for both policy and community action to protect the most vulnerable — particularly children.

Air Quality Alert: Nearly 30% of asthma cases tied to fine particulate matter exposure from bad air

Delhi continued to battle with air pollution for the 10th consecutive day post-Diwali as a dense layer of smog blanketed parts of the national capital on Sunday. Several parts of the national capital recorded very poor air quality levels on Sunday morning as per the data issued by the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR-India). Today morning, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 351, Bawana 383, CRRI Mathura Road 323, Dwarka Sector 8 at 341, IGI Airport at 326, ITO 328, Lodhi Road 319, Mundka at 358, Najafgarh at 341, New Moti Bagh at 394, Okhla phase-2 at 339, RK Puram at 368, and Wazirpur at 366, as per SAFAR-India data. As of 5 pm on November 10, Delhi's AQI stood at 334, with Anand Vihar at 353, Dilshad Garden at 262, and Jahangirpuri at 377. For tomorrow, AQI in adjoining cities of Noida and Gurugram is forecasted to be at 208.92 and 77.51, respectively. Multiple visuals from Delhi's Kartavya Path showed the area surrounding India Gate engulfed by a layer of smog. The AQI in the area was recorded at 357 as of 7 am. High-rise buildings were also covered in smog in the Kalindi Kunj and surrounding locality, as the AQI was recorded as 323 in the area. An AQI is considered "poor" between '200 and 300', "very poor" at '301 and 400', "severe" at '401-450," and 450 and above is "severe plus." As the air pollution levels in the national capital reach "very poor," doctors say that even people with no history of respiratory diseases are suffering from breathing issues. Dr. Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant for Respiratory Critical Care at Apollo Hospital, told ANI that apart from the regular patients, those who haven't had any respiratory issues in the past are showing up with symptoms such as runny noses, sneezing, coughing, and having increasing difficulties breathing. As it is, respiratory illnesses in the national capital are estimated to have shot up by around 15-20%. The Apollo doctor further suggested that the government close the schools for children as they remain vulnerable. Whenever the pollution levels have gone beyond a certain limit, the government has opted to close the schools, Dr. Modi said. "For the last few years, we have been seeing that the government has taken action. Whenever this pollution level has gone beyond a certain limit, they have opted to close the schools. This is important because children are from a vulnerable group. As adults, we are masked and can protect ourselves better, but children usually are not that effectively taking these measures. Secondly, their lungs are still in developing stages, so they are bound to have more harm due to this pollution," the doctor told ANI. Siddharth Singhal, Head of Health Insurance, Policybazaar.com, notes that while most standard health plans in India cover pollution-related ailments, it is always advised to also go for an OPD plan along with a health insurance plan to cover consultations, medications, and diagnostic tests that may be required frequently due to pollution. "Pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and some other parts of India have shot up post Diwali. Effects of this are very evident in the form of sore throats and breathing problems, among others. This can also result in respiratory ailments and chronic conditions like asthma, bronchitis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), pneumonia, and severe cases of respiratory or bronchial obstruction. Health insurance becomes critical to cover such expenses. Most policies typically cover emergency hospitalization for respiratory issues like asthma or COPD exacerbations requiring ICU or critical care," he adds.

Layer of smog covers Delhi as air quality remains 'very poor'. Here's why you need an insurance cover for this

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?

The government's <keyword id="20039960" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="One-Health-approach" source="keywords">One Health approach</keyword> is vital for both predicting as well as preventing any future <keyword id="21218421" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="zoonotic-outbreaks" source="keywords">zoonotic outbreaks</keyword> (disease that jumps from animals to humans), health experts opined on Saturday, ahead of the <keyword id="135993" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-health-day" source="Orion">World Health Day</keyword> which is marked every year on April 7. This year's theme '<keyword id="21218422" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="my-health" source="Orion">My Health</keyword>, <keyword id="21218423" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="my-right" source="Orion">My Right</keyword>' focuses on equal access to quality health care. "The government's focus on the '<keyword id="6494932" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="one-health" source="Orion">One Health</keyword>' approach, recognising the interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health, is vital for predicting and preventing future zoonotic disease outbreaks," Dr. Rohit Garg, consultant, infectious disease, Amrita Hospital Faridabad, told IANS. The experts noted that the country's response to recent outbreaks of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Nipah virus demonstrates its evolving capacity to manage infectious diseases, adding that lessons from each event have helped the country improve its preparedness for future pandemics, including the hypothetical <keyword id="6328063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Disease-X" source="Orion">Disease X</keyword>. "India's response to recent disease outbreaks has been moulded by our experience with Covid-19. Recent moves to expand the existing network of biosafety-level 3 and 4 laboratories, to expand surveillance for respiratory viruses, invest in diagnostic infrastructure, and formulate a One Health approach towards emerging diseases are welcome and important steps towards tackling such challenges," Gautam Menon, Dean, Research and Professor of Physics and Biology, Ashoka University, told IANS. Besides ramping up testing facilities, expanding healthcare infrastructure, contact tracing during the pandemic and the vaccination drive were among India's significant measures. The latter was one of the largest globally, with India also developing an indigenous vaccine, Covaxin, alongside deploying other vaccines. "These actions highlighted the country's ability to mobilise vast resources and innovate under pressure," said Dr Rohit. Similarly, during the Nipah virus outbreaks, although more localised, India employed rapid response teams, enhanced surveillance and implemented containment measures. "India, post-pandemic, is very different in terms of capacity for pathogen surveillance and pandemic prevention or control when compared to pre-pandemic times. This is partly infrastructural, in terms of greater scientific and health capacity, but mostly structural in terms of better-defined roles for existing organisations, and creation of new multi-stakeholder institutions e.g. for OneHealth," Anurag Agrawal, Dean of Bio Sciences and Health Research at Trivedi School of Biosciences at Ashoka University, told IANS.

Ahead of World Health Day, experts reiterate importance of govt's One Health approach in preventing future zoonotic outbreaks

Besides creating respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, the deteriorating <keyword id="13001" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pollution" source="Orion">pollution</keyword> level in the city is creating a slew of patients with watery eyes, itchy throat, doctors said here. Engulfed in thick toxic smog, the air quality index (AQI) on Friday plummeted to the "severe plus" category in several parts of the national capital. The air turned a dense grey as the AQI hovered around 500 in several parts of Delhi-NCR, which is a staggering 100 times higher than the limit considered healthy by the World Health Organization (WHO). "Of late in the OPD we are seeing almost a 50 per cent increase in the number of patients who are coming with watery eyes. Some also experience burning, itching and irritation in their eyes," Dr Anita Sethi, Director &amp; HOD ophthalmology, Fortis hospital Gurugram, told IANS. "Due to pollution we are getting several cases on a daily basis. As of now, we have 28 beds occupied, with 14 of those being in the ICU, and 2 patients on ventilators. These patients have reported a series of discomforting symptoms, which include itchy throats, burning eyes, and exacerbated allergies, along with congested lungs, added Dr. Ambarish Joshi Senior Pulmonologist, Primus Super Specialty Hospital. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has revealed that pollution levels in <keyword id="66" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="delhi" source="Orion">Delhi</keyword> in October reached their worst since 2020, indicating a critical situation that demands urgent attention. The agency also states that prolonged exposure to <keyword id="55910" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="air-pollution" source="Orion">air pollution</keyword> can cause children to suffer from respiratory diseases. According to the doctors, the elderly, children and those with allergies are more vulnerable these days. Dr Sethi said the dry air of winter and the pollution increases the dryness of the eyes and makes them more sensitive to the particulate matter which is there in the air, causing a lot of burning, irritation and watering in the eyes. "Also, as this is a time of change of seasons so there is more pollen in the air. So those who are a little more prone to allergies are having a real increase in exacerbation of symptoms. "People with pre existing allergies, contact lens wearers, some of the young professionals who have very long hours at the computer and anyway have a little bit of a dry eye syndrome," could have a tough time. Doctors and authorities have urged Delhiites to take the necessary precautions, such as wearing masks and staying indoors whenever possible, to safeguard their health amidst this alarming pollution crisis. "The increasing levels of particulate matter in the air are negatively impacting respiratory health, making it imperative for individuals to remain vigilant and take steps to reduce their exposure to dust and pollutants to safeguard their well-being," Dr. Joshi said. "We urge everyone to wear masks when going outdoors and to avoid any strenuous exercise in open areas, especially those with COPD cases. Please venture outside only if it is absolutely necessary. Additionally, avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke is strongly advised, as it can exacerbate respiratory issues during times of compromised air quality," he noted. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/gadgets/news/hp-omen-16-gaming-laptop-review/articleshow/104945732.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/gadgets/news/hp-omen-16-gaming-laptop-review/articleshow/104945732.cms" target="_blank">HP Omen 16 laptop review – A powerful laptop with a fine display</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/india-q3-smartphone-shipments-apple-gains-34-pc-market-share-in-india/articleshow/104907807.cms">Smartphone shipments: Apple gains 34% market share in India as Samsung, Xiaomi decline</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/how-to-use-two-whatsapp-accounts-on-one-phone/articleshow/104641592.cms">How to use two WhatsApp accounts on one phone? A step by step guide</a>

Delhi sees surge in number of people with eye, throat, respiratory issues

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A new report from Forbes Advisor ranked US states by risk of cat and dog illnesses.</li><li>They analyzed 19 different diseases throughout the US, including Lyme Disease, rabies, and worms.</li></ul>Spring has sprung, and with warmer weather comes the start of a far less pleasant time of year: tick season. As ticks become more active this spring, both humans and their pets will be at greater risk of diseases like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-protect-against-lyme-disease-during-tick-season-2021-8">Lyme disease</a>, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis.But a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-care/highest-and-lowest-risk-states-for-pet-illness/">new science report</a> from Forbes Advisor, the analysis arm of Forbes, could help you protect your pets from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-check-for-tick-bites-this-summer-2023-5">tick-borne diseases</a> and other harmful infections.The report analyzed 19 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/funny-animal-photos-comedy-pet-photography-awards-finalists-2024-5">dog and cat</a> diseases across the US from six pet health and infectious disease organizations, including the Center for Disease Control and the American Veterinary Medical Association. It uncovered the riskiest states for pets, and the data might just save your pet's life."As a pet owner, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/half-owners-say-pets-equal-human-family-member-survey-2023-7">you want to do the very best job taking care of your pet</a>," and this report will hopefully better equip pet owners to do exactly that by spreading awareness, Alexandria Cremer, a Forbes senior PR strategist involved with the report, told Business Insider.Here are the 10 riskiest states for your pet, the most common diseases to watch out for, and some basic tips for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-retro-pugs-healthier-than-pugs-live-longer-2023-4">keeping your pet happy and healthy</a>.<h2 id="9f2371db-99c2-4182-adb6-acd68e9b9c3d">Top 10 riskiest states for your pet</h2>Forbes Advisor created its own ranking scale based on data from all 19 diseases. The scale ranges from zero to 100, and states with higher scores have a greater risk of these diseases.These were the 10 riskiest states, according to the data:<ol><li>West Virginia Score: 100</li><li>Rhode Island Score: 80.71</li><li>New Jersey Score: 74.1</li><li>Kentucky Score: 73.91</li><li>Maine Score: 71.3</li><li>Oklahoma Score: 70.15</li><li>New York Score: 66.23</li><li>Mississippi Score: 65.88</li><li>Indiana Score: 65.69</li><li>Pennsylvania Score: 64.75</li></ol>Some key takeaways: Five of the top 10 riskiest states for your pet are on the East Coast (Rhode Island, New Jersey, Maine, New York, and Pennsylvania). Two of these 10 states, West Virginia and Maine, were also among the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/map-states-with-lyme-disease-other-tick-borne-illnesses-2022-5">top three riskiest states for tick-borne diseases</a>. And Pennsylvania recorded the most cases of rabies (237) in cats between 2017 to 2021.<h2 id="0a607237-2959-418a-a8ca-9eca83e16e66">The most common diseases to watch out for</h2><h3 id="99bf07fe-fbfc-4986-a19e-46d33596bc02">Ticks</h3>Tick-borne diseases like Lyme Disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-prevent-diseases-from-ticks-mosquitoes-summer-2018-6">especially common in the spring and summer months</a>.Arkansas, Maine, and West Virginia ranked highest in tick-borne diseases out of all 50 states. But regionally, the East Coast — and especially the Northeast — showed the highest risk of tick-borne disease.These bacterial infections <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/deer-tick-powassan-virus-lyme-disease-risk-2017-6">can turn deadly</a> if not treated quickly, so it's important to watch your pet for symptoms. Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and joint stiffness or pain are all common symptoms of these three tick-borne diseases.<h3 id="57fd3145-dee8-41fc-9784-60a185b1ab27">Parasites</h3>Ticks aren't the only tiny critters that can get your pet sick. Parasites like worms can wriggle their way into your pets' bodies when they ingest contaminated substances like dirt or feces, or when an infected insect — <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dog-scratching">like fleas and mosquitos</a> — bite your pet.Roundworms are the most common <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/worms-in-dogs">intestinal parasites</a> in cats and dogs. The top three states with the highest risk of roundworm were South Dakota, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.This parasite poses the biggest risk to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/foster-kittens-puppies-san-antonio-zoo-2020-7">puppies and kittens</a>, so it's important to deworm them every two weeks until they're three months old, according to Companion Veterinary Clinic. Watch for symptoms like a distended belly, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.<h3 id="633be37d-cd4f-4f5b-b45c-83d12cddef68">Viruses</h3><div type="image" title="A vet examines a white cat" height="1414" width="2119" msid="110313028" hostid="261" sizebytes="185776"></div>Cats and dogs can catch viruses too. The risk of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dog-sneezing-a-lot">dog flu</a>, a highly contagious respiratory virus, was highest in New Mexico, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.Most dogs recover from the flu in two to three weeks, but it's still important to look for the symptoms so that you can keep them properly hydrated, rested, and fed while they recover. Symptoms include a runny nose, fever, lethargy, runny eyes, and loss of appetite, according to the FA report.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/couple-adopts-depressed-cat-fishtopher-after-seeing-viral-tweet-2022-11">Feline immunodeficiency virus</a> is one of the most common diseases that infect cats. Kentucky and Mississippi showed the highest risk of this disease.It's dangerous because infected cats may not display any symptoms for years, but all the while, this virus is causing lasting damage to their immune systems. Though the early signs are hard to see, you can catch them one to three months following infection if you know what to look for including swollen lymph nodes, fever, depression, and lack of appetite, according to Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine.<h2 id="439c804d-01bc-4e72-bfbb-0ec7907a30d8">How to keep your pet safe</h2>No matter where you live, there are some preventative measures that every pet owner can take to protect their pet's health.Scheduling <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/how-often-should-my-dog-go-to-the-vet">annual vet check-ups</a> to make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccines is a great place to start, according to the animal rescue Brandywine Valley SPCA.It's also important to keep up with preventative medication. Experts recommend giving your pet heartworm, flea, and tick medication once a month, all year round, and routinely checking your pet's fur and skin for ticks, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the FDA.Trips to the vet can get expensive, especially if your pet needs emergency care or surgery. Emergency vet bills range from $150 to $5,000 on average in the US, MetLife reports. Consider <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/best-pet-insurance">purchasing pet insurance</a> to help cover unexpected costs. Depending on your pet's breed, age, and other factors, pet insurance can range from $48 to $68 per month per dog and $28 to $40 monthly per cat, according to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-insurance-cost/">separate report</a> from Forbes Advisor.And last, but certainly not least, making sure your pet gets <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/can-dogs-eat-cat-food">proper nutrition</a>, hydration, exercise, and mental stimulation is key to keeping them happy and healthy, according to the Animal Foundation.

The 10 states where your pet is more likely to get sick from tick-borne diseases, viruses, parasites, and more

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Parts of northern China have seen a surge in children with respiratory illnesses.</li><li>The WHO requested more information from Chinese health officials, who said common bugs are the cause.</li></ul>Cases of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/who-requests-data-china-mystery-illness-affecting-children-2023-11">respiratory illness among children</a> in northern China have surged in recent weeks, but it's unlikely this is the start of a new pandemic, according to the World Health Organization.The WHO has been monitoring an increase in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-hospitals-overwhelmed-children-fall-sick-record-levels-2023-11?r=US&amp;IR=T">respiratory illness</a> among children in northern China since mid-October. At a press conference on November 13, Chinese health authorities pinned a nationwide rise in respiratory disease, mostly in children, to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions — which mostly ended in December 2022 — and the circulation of known pathogens such as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/flu-symptoms">flu</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.insider.com/mycoplasma-bacteria-walking-pneumonia-outbreak-explained-2023-11">mycoplasma pneumoniae</a>, respiratory syncytial virus (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/rsv-respiratory-syncytial-virus-children-hospital-symptoms-signs-risk-prevent-2022-10">RSV</a>), and SARS-CoV-2. The WHO said on Wednesday it's unclear if these are separate events. Fears that this could be a new pandemic were sparked on November 21, when ProMED, an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/many-diseases-making-a-comeback-pandemic-reasons-why-2022-8">infectious disease</a> alert system, flagged up "reported clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children" in parts of China and hospitals becoming overwhelmed. However, after requesting detailed information from Chinese authorities, the WHO said that no unusual or novel pathogens had been detected.Maria Van Kerkhove, acting director of the WHO's department of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, told <a target="_blank" href="https://www.statnews.com/2023/11/24/china-respiratory-illness-immunity-gap-who-maria-van-kerkhove/">STAT</a> in an interview on Friday that the spike reflects an increased wave of cases, not discrete clusters that would be more indicative of a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/bill-gates-covid-19-severe-risks-reduced-another-pandemic-certain-2022-2?r=US&amp;IR=T">new virus</a>."You hear 'undiagnosed.' People think, well, that means they must have ruled everything else out, and therefore it's probably new. You hear 'clusters,' which means there's some people linked in space and time. 'Children' — which is always alarming — 'with pneumonia,' which indicates a level of severity. And you hear 'China.' So I think a lot of people were immediately drawn back to the beginning of the Covid pandemic and thought: Oh God. Not again."She gave two reasons why this outbreak is not the new COVID.<h2>1) China is likely experiencing an immunity gap</h2>In a conference call with the WHO on Thursday, Chinese health officials presented evidence suggesting the outbreak is partly caused by what's known as an immunity gap, STAT reported.An immunity gap is the idea that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/before-after-photos-show-less-air-pollution-during-pandemic-lockdown">lockdowns</a> to prevent the spread of COVID also dramatically reduced the transmission of other common viruses and bacteria, such as flu and RSV. During this time, kids who had never been exposed to these bugs developed few immunological defenses against them, so when things went back to normal, and they were able to circulate again, more children were at risk of getting sick.Van Kerkhove told the outlet that she backs this theory. "This is expected. This is what most countries dealt with a year or two ago," she said.François Balloux, director of the UCL Genetics Institute, expressed the same view. "China is likely experiencing a major wave of childhood respiratory infections now as this is the first winter after their lengthy lockdown, which must have drastically reduced the circulation of respiratory bugs, and hence decreased immunity to endemic bugs," he said. Insider health correspondent Hilary Brueck reported last year amid a spike in US children getting sick with viruses that the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/why-kids-are-sick-rsv-flu-flooding-ers-2022-11">immunity gap or "debt" </a>does not mean children's immune systems were damaged by lockdowns and other measures to prevent the spread of COVID, as some claimed.<h2>2) The illnesses are not caused by a new virus</h2>Chinese health officials said that the outbreak of respiratory illness is caused by known pathogens.Van Kerkhove said that they provided the WHO with percentages of how many cases have been caused by influenza, rhinovirus, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/adenovirus-symptoms-infection-treatment-causes">adenovirus</a>, and mycoplasma pneumoniae, respectively.She said that they had not seen patients who were not diagnosable, nor a clustering of undiagnosed pneumonias.The health authorities also told the WHO that they had not detected any new variants or subtypes of the known pathogens. "This is not an indication of a novel pathogen," she said.Her view is shared by other public health experts too. A group of biosecurity experts from UNSW Sydney, Australia, wrote in <a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/how-worried-should-we-be-about-the-pneumonia-outbreak-in-china-218514">The Conversation</a> on Monday: "There is no indication that the current situation in China is a new pandemic, but we should always identify and pay attention to undiagnosed pneumonia clusters. Early warning systems give us the best chance of preventing the next pandemic."

2 reasons China's mysterious respiratory illness outbreak isn't the new COVID, according to the WHO

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Cases of flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19 have surged among children in northern China. </li><li>Chinese authorities say that pathogens such as mycoplasma are to blame. </li></ul>Cases of<a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/who-requests-data-china-mystery-illness-affecting-children-2023-11?r=US&amp;IR=T"> respiratory illness among children in northern China</a> have surged in recent weeks. Common pathogens, which can cause illnesses such as "walking" pneumonia, are understood to be the cause.Business Insider previously reported that one <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-hospitals-overwhelmed-children-fall-sick-record-levels-2023-11&amp;post-bottom-piano-recommendations?r=US&amp;IR=T&amp;_gl=1*1wm6zol*_ga*MTg0OTg1NjE1Ny4xNjk0NTEyMTk3*_ga_E21CV80ZCZ*MTcwMTEwNTg4Ny4yNDMuMS4xNzAxMTA2ODI1LjQ0LjAuMA..">Beijing hospital</a> said on Friday that its pediatrics unit was seeing 550 to 650 visits per day, which is 30 to 50% more than the same period in previous years. Another hospital in nearby Tianjian claimed that more than 13,171 patients had been admitted to its two campuses in 24 hours, with its director saying its staff were overwhelmed.The World Health Organization said on Thursday that it has been monitoring an increase in respiratory illness among children in northern China, shown in Chinese surveillance systems, since mid-October. It said the country's health authorities announced a spike in respiratory diseases, mostly in children, on November 13. The WHO said it was unclear if the reports of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/is-pneumonia-contagious">pneumonia</a> in children were linked to the overall increase in respiratory illness, or separate events.According to the WHO, Chinese authorities attributed the surge in cases to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/relaxed-covid-rules-china-boost-fast-fashion-shein-2022-12?r=US&amp;IR=T">lifting of COVID-19 restrictions</a>, the majority of which ended in December 2022, and the circulation of known pathogens such as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/flu-symptoms">influenza</a>, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/rsv-respiratory-syncytial-virus-children-hospital-symptoms-signs-risk-prevent-2022-10">RSV</a>), and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/new-covid-variant-eris-symptoms-transmission-2023-8">SARS-CoV-2 </a>(the virus that causes COVID).The uptick in respiratory illness cases has sparked fears of a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-not-prepared-for-next-pandemic-outgoing-cdc-director-says-2023-6">new pandemic</a> that experts have tried to allay. A group of biosecurity experts from UNSW Sydney, Australia, wrote in <a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com/how-worried-should-we-be-about-the-pneumonia-outbreak-in-china-218514">The Conversation</a> on Monday that they are confident we are not dealing with a new virus as several causes for the surge have already been identified."There is no indication that the current situation in China is a new pandemic, but we should always identify and pay attention to undiagnosed pneumonia clusters. Early warning systems give us the best chance of preventing the next pandemic," they wrote.<h2>People infected with mycoplasma may not realize they have pneumonia</h2>Mycoplasma, probably the least known of the pathogens linked to the outbreak, is a type of bacteria that can cause mild respiratory infections that most people recover from without <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/treatments/how-long-does-it-take-for-antibiotics-to-work">antibiotics</a>. However, it can sometimes cause more serious lung infections that can lead to hospitalization, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bacteria is also a cause of a type of pneumonia known as atypical or "walking" pneumonia.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/health/conditions-symptoms/how-do-you-get-pneumonia">Pneumonia</a> causes the airways to swell, the air sacs in the lungs to fill with mucus and other fluids, and a high fever and a cough with mucus. But if it is classified as atypical, the person may feel well enough to walk around and carry out daily tasks and not realize they have it, according to Cleveland Clinic.They may feel like they have a bad cold or flu, and symptoms typically include sore throat, fatigue, chest pain or discomfort, low-grade fever, cough, sneezing, and headache, according to the medical center.<h2>Mycoplasma spreads via droplets</h2>Mycoplasma is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes and releases small respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria into the air. These might infect other people if they breathe the droplets in, according to the CDC.Those under the age of two, over the age of 65, or with a weakened immune system are more at risk of developing atypical pneumonia.If caused by a bacteria such as mycoplasma, pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics as well as over-the-counter drugs to help with symptoms. It may last from four to six weeks with a cough usually being the longest-lasting symptom.

What to know about mycoplasma bacteria giving children pneumonia in China, amid a respiratory illness outbreak  

People hospitalised with seasonal <keyword id="6388288" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="influenza" source="Orion">influenza</keyword> also can suffer long-term, negative health effects, especially involving their lungs and airways, much like the effects of long <keyword id="8764262" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="covid" source="Orion">Covid</keyword>, according to a study. The findings, published in The Lancet <keyword id="156132" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="infectious-diseases" source="Orion">Infectious Diseases</keyword>, showed that Long flu, which was ignored for a considerable time, is for real and is a health <keyword id="27263" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="risk" source="Orion">risk</keyword>. The new study by Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis compared the viruses that cause Covid-19 and the flu also revealed that in the 18 months after infection, <keyword id="6364395" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="patients" source="Orion">patients</keyword> hospitalised for either Covid-19 or seasonal influenza faced an increased risk of death, hospital readmission, and health problems in many organ systems. Further, the time of highest risk was 30 days or later after initial infection. "The study illustrates the high toll of death and loss of health following hospitalisation with either Covid-19 or seasonal influenza," said Ziyad Al-Aly, MD, a clinical epidemiologist at Washington University. "It's critical to note that the health risks were higher after the first 30 days of infection. Many people think they're over Covid-19 or the flu after being discharged from the hospital. That may be true for some people. But our research shows that both viruses can cause long-haul illness," he added. Al-Aly, an assistant professor of medicine at Washington University said that a review of past studies on Covid versus the flu focused on a short-term and narrow set of health outcomes. They found that the overall risk and occurrence of death, hospital admissions, and loss of health in many organ systems are substantially higher among Covid patients than among those who have had seasonal influenza, he said. "The one notable exception is that the flu poses higher risks to the pulmonary system than Covid-19," Al-Aly said. The researchers evaluated health information involving 81,280 patients hospitalised for Covid from March 2020 to June 2022, as well as 10,985 patients hospitalised for seasonal influenza from October 2015 to February 2019. During the overall 18-month study period, patients who had Covid faced a 50 per cent higher risk of death than those with seasonal influenza. This corresponded to about eight more deaths per 100 persons in the Covid group than among those with the flu. Although Covid showed a greater risk of health loss than seasonal influenza, infection with either virus carried significant risk of disability and disease. The researchers found Covid exhibited an increased risk of 68 per cent of health conditions examined across all organ systems (64 of the 94 adverse health outcomes studied), while the flu was associated with elevated risk of 6 per cent of health conditions (six of the 94) -- mostly in the respiratory system. Also, over 18 months, Covid-19 patients experienced an increased risk of hospital readmission as well as admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). For every 100 persons in each group, there were 20 more hospital admissions and nine more ICU admissions in Covid-19 than flu. "For both Covid-19 and seasonal influenza, vaccinations can help prevent severe disease and reduce the risk of hospitalizations and death,"Al-Aly said.

'Long flu': Study finds influenza symptoms can linger like long Covid

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Dogs across the country have been falling ill with an unidentified sickness.</li><li>Its symptoms include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and energy loss.</li></ul>A mysterious respiratory illness is spreading between dogs across the US, and veterinarians aren't sure what's causing it. In some cases, it's been deadly.It's not uncommon for dogs to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.insider.com/guides/pets/can-dogs-get-colds">develop a cough</a> this time of year, Dr. Sorin McKnight, an associate veterinarian at Wellborn Road Veterinary Medical Center in Texas, told Business Insider.But what's concerning about this disease, which McKnight herself hasn't witnessed, is that vets don't yet know if it's caused by a familiar bug, like the flu, or something new entirely.If they don't know what it is they don't know how to treat it, McKnight said, "so the unknown part I think like, is the unsettling part."A group of scientists at the University of New Hampshire's Veterinary Diagnosis Laboratory and the Hubbard Center for Genome Studies thinks they may have identified a bacteria that could be responsible, but it hasn't been confirmed yet, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/mystery-dog-illness-respiratory-what-know-rcna125992">NBC news reported.</a>But these reports could be caused by different bugs, and it's important not to panic, veterinarian Dr. Silene St. Bernard, who is the regional medical director working with VCA animal hospitals, told BI.Some of the first known reports of the disease started in Oregon in early August. Since then, the state has recorded more than 200 case reports of the disease, Andrea Cantu-Schomus, communications director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture, told the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.avma.org/news/oregon-dealing-respiratory-illness-incidents-dogs">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>. Other states that have reported cases include <a target="_blank" href="https://cvmbs.source.colostate.edu/respiratory-illness-canine/">Colorado</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nhpr.org/nh-news/2023-11-19/dogs-coming-down-with-an-unusual-respiratory-illness-in-several-states-nh">New Hampshire</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.westernmassnews.com/2023/11/20/concerns-rise-following-mystery-respiratory-virus-dogs/">Massachusetts</a>.Here's what to look out for in your pooch, and how to do your best to protect your dog against infection.<h2>How to protect your pup</h2><div type="image" title="A picture taken on August 7, 2023 shows an abandoned dog at a shelter cared for by the Brigitte Bardot Foundation." height="2149" width="3222" msid="105396026" hostid="261"></div>The first line of defense in dogs is the same as humans — staying <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/dog-owners-vaccine-hesitancy-problem-research-journal-2023-10">up to date with vaccinations</a>, McKnight said. The shots are helpful in keeping your dog protected against other sicknesses that might make their immune systems weaker, St. Bernard said.But the easiest way to avoid it is just to keep your dog away from others. Like kids at school, infection spreads easily in areas of high traffic, like <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/side-hustles-from-home-sniffspot-rent-backyard-dog-park-2023-1">dog parks</a>, boarders, and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/celebrity-dog-groomer-charges-300-an-hour-luxury-pet-haircuts-2020-7">groomers</a>, McKnight said.It probably spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or by coming into contact with fluids from an infected dog, St.Bernard said."I think we've all learned more than we ever wanted to know about <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-coronavirus-spreads-droplets-aerosols-poop-2020-5">respiratory disease and how it passes</a> over the last few years. But it wouldn't be any different really in dogs than it would people," she said.So with transmission in mind, keeping your dog away from others for a little while, "would be the best way to avoid it. You know, just trying to stay away to not get infected," McKnight said.It's especially prudent to take note of this ahead of the holidays when many people opt to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/dogvacay-raises-25-million-2014-11">board their dogs</a> as they travel.<h2>What to do if you think your dog got infected</h2><div type="image" title="A doctor with blue latex gloves checks up on a dog" height="1414" width="2121" msid="105396027" hostid="261"></div>Symptoms differ from case to case but tend to mirror that which you might see in humans: cough, sneezing, runny nose, and low energy, the <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/dog-respiratory-illness-oregon-colorado-7495daf374ddb8179593b2276248da75">Associated Press reported</a>.Sometimes, these symptoms come on fast and leave just as quickly. So as soon as you notice these symptoms, if you're able to, McKnight said you should get your dog to a veterinarian and have them take a chest X-ray.Other times though, these symptoms persist, and the dog can develop pneumonia or other lung problems. These are the sicknesses that can result in death, according to McKnight.McKnight said that if your dog's cough persists and they start seeming more tired and less interested in food, it could be a sign that they've developed something more serious.If you haven't already, you should bring your dog to a veterinarian at this point.Though this illness is something to watch out for, St. Bernard told BI that she wasn't sure this disease is any more deadly than the normal bugs that dogs can catch this time of year."I wouldn't panic at this point. I understand mystery illnesses, sounds exciting and scary, and all those things. But lots of illnesses are mysteries. We don't know what causes everything," St. Bernard said.

A mysterious respiratory illness that infects dogs is spreading across the US. Here's how to protect your pooch, and what to do if you think they have it.

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