Health Bulletin 31/ July/ 2024

The UP Government had planned to commence admission at the 1300 MBBS seats in these 13 new government medical colleges. However, the Apex Medical Education Regulatory Body, NMC, denied granting its nod after shortcomings were pointed out during the inspection, including deficiencies in the infrastructure and faculty strength.

During the monsoon season, there was a notable increase in vector-borne diseases, including climate-sensitive illnesses like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. Lymphatic filariasis (LF), also known as elephantiasis or haathipaon, was reported among vulnerable populations.

Lymphatic filariasis, a debilitating neglected tropical disease, was caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. These parasites infected the lymphatic system, leading to severe and lifelong disabilities. In LF, swelling in the legs occurred due to disruption in the lymphatic system caused by the parasitic worms. The parasites lodged in the lymphatic vessels, blocking the normal flow of lymph fluid.

Assuming the 80% availability of registered allopathic doctors and 5.65 lakh AYUSH doctors, the doctor-population ratio in India is 1:836, Smt Patel informed.

While there are altogether 10,458 sanctioned posts of doctors, nurses and paramedical staff combined in these three hospitals, 2079 posts of them are lying vacant. The MoS Health has further informed that there is a combined capacity of 5,929 beds in these three hospitals.

Recently, there was a notable increase in cases of "Teflon flu," a condition linked to nonstick cookware. According to The Washington Post, over 250 cases were reported last year, marking the highest number since 2000. This raised concerns about the safety of nonstick cookware and whether it might be contributing to the rise in cases.

Teflon flu, also known as polymer fume fever, resulted from inhaling fumes produced by overheated nonstick pans. Nonstick cookware commonly contains Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a material known for its durability and heat resistance. Although PTFE is generally safe under normal conditions, it can release toxic fumes when heated above 500 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to polymer fume fever.