Latest Kerala Local News: Scrub typhus alert in Alappuzha – The Hindu

The health department has issued a scrub typhus alert in Alappuzha. New cases of the disease have been reported in Kalath and District Court wards of Alappuzha Municipality.

Last year, three cases of scrub typhus were reported in the district. The disease, which is caused by a bacterium called Orientia tsutsugamushi, is not transmitted from person to person.

District Chief Medical Officer Jamuna Varghese urged people to exercise caution. Scrub typhus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected chiggers, the larvae of a small insect called a mite. The DMO said humans mainly contract the disease when bitten by chiggers on the bodies of animals such as rats, rabbits, mice and squirrels.

Symptoms of scrub typhus include fever, chills, headache, body aches, muscle aches, a dark scab-like area at the chigger bite site, enlarged lymph nodes, dry cough, rash, red eyes, and in some cases mental changes ranging from confusion to coma. People with symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

In a statement published here, the DMO highlighted the importance of rodent control, cleanliness and maintaining hygiene in preventing disease. He urged people to exercise caution when handling pets. Children playing in the ground were asked to wash their hands and legs with soap and water.

Dust mite repellents can be applied to exposed skin. Wear fully covered clothing before entering shrubby areas to work. People should not dry their clothes on the ground or on the grass. Regular cleaning of the surroundings, including the removal of shrubs and low vegetation, will prevent mite infestation, the statement said.

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An Overview of Global Events in 2023

In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.

Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.

Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.

Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.

Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.

Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.

Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.

In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.