NewzIntel.com

Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City council invests a further £2 million to reduce smoking thanks to government funding

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Tuesday, 25th March 2025

    Stoke-on-Trent City Council is set to receive almost £2 million in government funding to reduce smoking in the City.

    The city council’s cabinet is set to approve spending the grant money for the next five years when it meets on Tuesday 25 March.

    The grant is awarded over five years, but approval will cover the grant award over the next four years, as last year’s grant has already been received.

    The funding, provided by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), is part of a five-year programme running until 2029 to create a smoke free generation.

    Smoking is still the biggest cause of preventable death in the UK, with 64,000 people dying every year. In Stoke-on-Trent, smoking rates are higher than the national average and a leading cause of deaths in the city.

    Being exposed to the wide range of health harms that smoking causes, is damaging many lives across the City even in those who don’t smoke. 

    The increased investment will help protect children from the many health problems tobacco causes and help people live longer, taking a big step towards a smokefree generation. 

    In 2024/25, the city council has already used funding to:

    • Create new roles to support an expansion of stop smoking offers to support more people to quit
    • Offer free Allen Carr’s Easyway quit-smoking seminars – available in Stoke-on-Trent for the first time.
    • Expand pharmacy support, giving more people expert advice in their neighbourhoods
    • Work within communities to give people tailored support to quit smoking or vaping
    • Work with councils across the West Midlands to share resources and cut smoking rates across the region.
    • Conducting work to better understand how people want to be supported

    All of this work will be led by the newly formed Stoke-on-Trent Tobacco Alliance, bringing together a range of organisations to make a bigger impact.

    Stephen Gunther, director of public health at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “I am really pleased that we have received this funding to build on the great work that is already being done to stop people from starting smoking and help those who are to quit.

    “It gives us a better chance to create a smokefree generation and support those who want to quit. We are committed to creating a healthier standard of living for all our residents and this funding will ensure we can offer support where it’s needed most. This will help improve people’s health and reduce inequalities across the city.”

    Councillor Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “This money will make a real difference to people in Stoke-on-Trent. By offering more support and reaching more people, we can help people live healthier, longer lives. Smoking causes real harm to families and communities, so helping people quit is a big step towards a smokefree Stoke-on-Trent.

    For more information on the support available to quit smoking go to: www.stoke.gov.uk/smokefree   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Powerful and emotive play demonstrates the real-life, devastating consequences of substance abuse

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Aisling Gillespie (PCSP), Lynette Cooke (PCSP), Deputy Lord Mayor Concillor Kyle Savage, Sandra Larmour, Fiona Spargo-Mabbs and Patricia Gibson (PCSP).

    Over 300 young people from the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon area recently came to Portadown Town Hall to watch a hard-hitting and impactful theatre production based on the harrowing true story of a 16-year-old boy who tragically lost his life to an MDMA overdose in 2014.

    The play, called ‘I Love You Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die’, delivered a powerful, verbatim account of the events leading up to the death of teenager Daniel Spargo-Mabbs, as told by his family and friends.

    This event was organised by the ABC Policing and Community Safety Partnership, and in addition to the play, attendees also participated in an engaging workshop with the cast, hearing firsthand from Fiona Spargo-Mabbs – Daniel’s mother – as well as Sandra Larmour. Their deeply personal accounts reinforced the life-changing impact of drug misuse and the critical need for open conversations around the issue.

    The workshop also featured presentations from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and Lydia Scholes from the Public Health Agency – Southern Drug and Alcohol Coordination Team (PHA – SDACT), further enriching the discussion with professional insights and expertise.

    “This event was not just a performance – it was an opportunity for local schools and the wider community to come together, engage in interactive discussions, and hear directly from those whose lives have been deeply affected and changed forever by substance misuse,” commented the Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Kyle Savage.

    “It was very difficult to listen to at times, but these difficult conversations must be had with our young people to encourage community engagement around drug awareness and to ensure that young people know the dangers surrounding sasubstance misuse.”

    The play was written by acclaimed playwright Mark Wheeller.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Culinary expert, Christian Abegan, named WFP Chef advocate in West and Central Africa

    Source: World Food Programme

    Photo: WFP/Evelyn Fey. Chef Christian Abegan becomes WFP’s Chef Advocate for Food Security, Nutrition, Sustainable Food Systems.

    DAKAR – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today announced Christian Abégan, -renowned culinary expert, author and TV Host, as its new Chef Advocate for food security, nutrition and sustainable food systems in West and Central Africa.

    A champion of sustainable food systems and healthy diets, Abégan has dedicated his career to elevating African gastronomy, advocating for food security and promoting the use of nutritious, locally sourced ingredients to fight hunger. Honoured with the Diplôme d’Honneur de l’Institut de la Gastronomie Française, laureate of the Afro-Caribbean Excellence Trophy and author, he brings a wealth of expertise and passion to WFP’s mission of fighting hunger and malnutrition worldwide.

    In his new role as WFP’s Chef Advocate, Christian Abégan will collaborate with WFP to promote fortified foods, advocate for homegrown school meals, and mobilize decision-makers to support global food security efforts. Chef Abegan will also share his culinary knowledge and techniques, empowering people to access nutritious meals using available resources.

    “As a chef and a passionate advocate for nutritious and accessible food for all, I fully identify with WFP’s mission to fight hunger,” said Chef Christian Abégan. “Taking on this role is a great honour and a responsibility that I embrace with passion and determination.“ 

    For the past 35 years, Abégan has advocated for the power of food as a tool for better health, culture, community cohesion and growth. His expertise in African cuisine and sustainable food systems aligns with WFP’s efforts to promote nutrition, food security, support to smallholder farmers and education through its homegrown school feeding programme.

    “Chef Christian Abégan’s expertise and creativity bring a powerful synergy to WFP’s efforts in West and Central Africa, blending culinary innovation with social impact,” said Margot Van Der Velden, WFP’s Regional Director for Western Africa.  “WFP’s engagement with Chef Abégan exemplifies the powerful impact of partnerships in addressing hunger and improving food and nutrition security. Through culinary innovation, capacity building, advocacy, we will bring about positive change to communities around the world.” 

    Western Africa is in the grips of an acute food security and nutrition crisis with an estimated 52.7 million women, men and children projected to experience acute hunger by June 2025. This hunger crisis is mainly driven by conflict, displacement, economic crises and severe climate shocks, with devastating floods in 2024 affecting over six million people across the region. Moreover, 8 in 10 children under two lack access to dietary diversity in a region hosting 16 percent of the global burden of child stunting. 

    WFP has been instrumental in fostering local food solutions, delivering emergency assistance to those in   greatest need and enhancing access to affordable and nutritious diets. WFP’s response encompasses support for local agribusinesses, initiatives for the production of nutritious foods and efforts to connect farmers with school feeding programmes. 

    Over the last seven years, Chef Abégan has actively been supporting WFP, participating in campaigns and events, including the Healthy Not Hungry campaign in Burkina Faso, and WFP Fight Famine across the Sahel, raising awareness about the importance of healthy eating and sustainable food practices. His engaging presence and ability to connect with diverse audiences make him an effective advocate for WFP’s mission in West and Central Africa.

    #                 #                   #

    About WFP: 

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, @wfp_media @wfp_wafrica @wfp_chad

    About Chef Christian Abégan:

    Chef Christian Abégan, a Cameroonian-born culinary expert and Le Cordon Bleu Paris graduate, is a master of African cuisine. Based in Paris, he is dedicated to showcasing the richness of African gastronomy. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, he launched L’Arche Culinaire Africain—a platform uniting African and Diaspora chefs to elevate local ingredients and promote nutrition-focused cuisine. In 2010, he received the Grand Diploma of Honor from the French Institute of Gastronomy, and in 2017, he was a finalist for the Archestrate Prize for his book Le Patrimoine Culinaire Africain (The African Culinary Heritage).  As a jury member on the Star Chef TV show from 2011 to 2016, he influenced culinary trends across 28 African countries. His ability to merge heritage and creativity earned him the Afro-Caribbean Excellence Trophy in 2009.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CASE Class of 2025 Includes 12 UConn Faculty Members

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    The Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering (CASE) is marking its 50th anniversary with a class of inductees featuring a significant UConn presence.

    Twelve UConn faculty members from across multiple schools and colleges are among the 36 total new members for the CASE Class of 2025. The Academy is comprised of top researchers, scholars, scientists, and engineers who have made significant original contributions to their respective fields.

    CASE

    UConn accounts for one-third of the entire 36-person class of new inductees. CASE will formally introduce the honorees at the Academy’s 50th Annual Dinner, which will be held at UConn’s main campus in Storrs on May 28.

    Faculty from the College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR), School of Medicine, and School of Pharmacy are represented as inductees. They join hundreds of UConn leaders and researchers who are CASE members dating back to the Academy’s founding in 1975. The 12 inductees matches UConn’s total from 2024.

    “UConn’s inductees to CASE exemplify the University’s commitment to excellence across many disciplines,” says Pamir Alpay, UConn’s vice president for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, as well as a CASE member. “Through their work as researchers and as educators, these faculty members are contributing to advancing science and engineering as they instruct the next generation to make its own positive impact. Congratulations to all of UConn’s 2025 inductees and thank you for your dedicated work on behalf of the State of Connecticut.”

    Scientists and engineers living or working in Connecticut are eligible for CASE election. The Connecticut General Assembly established the Academy in 1976, seeking to provide expert guidance on science and technology to the State. Each member of CASE has achieved a level of scientific distinction through original contributions to science and engineering.

    “CASE is honored to have these outstanding scientists and engineers join us as we seek to fulfill our mission to provide evidence-based advice to inform policy and promote innovation in Connecticut,” says CASE President Amy Howell.

    The following UConn faculty members will be introduced in late May:

    • Gerald Berkowitz, Professor of Horticulture, CAHNR
    • Ming-Hui Chen, Department Head of Statistics; Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor, CLAS
    • Jie He, Professor of Chemistry, CLAS
    • Omer Khan, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, COE
    • Guozhen Lu, Professor of Mathematics; Director of Mathematical Sciences Research Collaboratory, CLAS
    • Xiuling Lu, Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Associate Director, Kildsig Center for Pharmaceutical Processing Research, School of Pharmacy
    • Vijay Rathinam, Professor of Immunology, UConn Health School of Medicine
    • Kumar Venkitanarayanan, Professor of Animal Science; Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies, CAHNR
    • Ji-Cheng Zhao, Dean of the College of Engineering; Professor of Materials Science and Engineering, COE
    • Jing Zhao, Professor of Chemistry, CLAS
    • Guoan Zheng, UTC Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering; Director, UConn Center for Biomedical and Bioengineering Innovation, COE
    • Xiao-Dong Zhou, Connecticut Clean Energy Fund Professor in Sustainable Energy; The Nicholas E. Madonna Chair in Sustainability; Director, Center for Clean Energy Engineering; Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, COE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Secretary for Health announces fees and charges reform for public healthcare (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Health Bureau announced the details of the fees and charges reform for public healthcare today (March 25). Reforming the subsidisation structure of the public healthcare services aims to guide the public to make optimal use of healthcare resources, reduce wastage and abuse, and enhance healthcare protection for “poor, acute, serious, critical” patients on all fronts, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the healthcare system and strengthening the public healthcare system to cope with the challenges posed by an ageing population, inflation of healthcare costs, etc, and serve as a safety net for all.

         As an indispensable part of healthcare reform, the fees and charges reform for public healthcare covers the following three major areas, with a view to ensuring that limited healthcare resources can be directed in a targeted manner to help those patients most in need:

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Expansion of ESIC Coverage in Uttar Pradesh; 15 More Districts Notified

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 4:29PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya today announced that the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has expanded its coverage in Uttar Pradesh by notifying 15 additional districts under the Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Scheme. This marks a significant step towards strengthening social security for workers in the state.

    He mentioned that with this notification, a total of 74 out of 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh are now fully covered under the ESI Scheme, benefiting 30.08 lakh Insured Persons (IPs) and 1.16 crore beneficiaries. The newly notified districts namely, Ambedkar Nagar, Auraiya, Bahraich, Gonda, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Kannauj, Maharajganj, Mahoba, Pilibhit, Siddharthnagar, Shamli, Pratapgarh, Kasganj, and Shravasti, add 53,987 new Insured Persons to the ESIC network.

    Revised Implementation Status Nationwide

    Following this expansion, the national implementation status of the ESI Scheme stands as follows:

    • Total Districts Covered (Fully + Partially): 689
    • Fully Notified Districts: 586
    • Partially Notified Districts: 103
    • Non-Notified Districts: 89
    • Total Districts in India: 778

    Measures for Further Expansion

    To ensure comprehensive coverage across all remaining uncovered areas, ESIC has been actively working on the following initiatives:

    • Coordination with the State Government to arrange medical care facilities in non-implemented areas.
    • Utilizing Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Primary Health Centers (PHCs) to extend medical care in uncovered districts.
    • Integration with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to provide cashless medical care for ESIC beneficiaries without any expenditure cap.

    Benefits under the ESIC Scheme

    The ESIC provides a comprehensive social security net for workers, including:

    • Medical Benefits: Primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare.
    • Cash Benefits: Sickness, temporary/permanent disablement, maternity benefits (26 weeks), dependent benefits, and funeral expenses.
    • Unemployment Allowance: Under the Rajiv Gandhi Shramik Kalyan Yojana (RGSKY) and Atal Beemit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana (ABVKY) for workers facing job loss.

    The notification of these 15 districts reaffirms the Government’s commitment to extending social security coverage to every eligible worker in the country. Efforts are underway to bring the remaining non-notified districts under ESIC, ensuring that no worker is left out of this vital safety net.

    *****

    HP

    (Release ID: 2114861) Visitor Counter : 59

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GLOBAL DAIRY INDUSTRY

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:46PM by PIB Delhi

    India is ranked 1st in milk production since 1998, nowcontributing 25 percent of global milk production. Milk production has increased by 63.56% over the past 10 years from 146.3 million tonnes during 2014-15 to 239.2 million tonnes during 2023-24, with an annual growth rate of 5.7 % during the past 10 years and whereas, world milk production is growing at 2% per annum. Per capita availability of milk in the country has increased by 48% in the last decade with more than 471 gm/person/day during the year 2023-24 as against the per capita availability of 322 gram/ person/ day in the world.

    Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the following schemes across the country to complement and supplement the efforts for milk production and milk processing infrastructure made by the State Government;

    1. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD): NPDD is implemented with following 2 components:
      1. Component ”A” of NPDD focuses on creating/strengthening of infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union/ Self Help Groups (SHGs)/ Milk Producer Companies/ Farmer Producer Organizations.
      2. Component ‘B’ of the NPDD scheme “Dairying through Cooperatives” aims to increase sale of milk and dairy products by increasing farmer’s access to organized market, upgrading dairy processing facilities and marketing infrastructure and enhancing the capacity of producer owned institutions.
    3. Supporting Dairy Cooperatives & Farmer Producer Organisations engaged in dairy activities (SDCFPO): To assist the State Dairy Cooperative Federations by providing interest subvention with respect to working capital loan to tide over the crisis on account severely adverse market conditions or natural calamities.
    4. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): AHIDF is being implemented for funding of eligible projects set up by individual entrepreneurs, Dairy Cooperatives, Farmers Producer Organizations, Private Companies, MSMEs and Section 8 companies for their investment for processing and value addition in animal husbandry sector by scheduled banks. Under the scheme, credit facilities are to be made available for establishment of Dairy processing & value addition infrastructure, Animal feed manufacturing plant, Breed Improvement Technology and Breed Multiplication farm, Animal waste to wealth management (Agri Waste management) and Veterinary vaccine and drugs production facilities.
    5. Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): To enhance milk production and productivity of bovines Government is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission for development and conservation of indigenous breeds and genetic upgradation of bovine population.
    6. National Livestock Mission (NLM): to bring sharp focus on entrepreneurship development and breed improvement in poultry, sheep, goat and piggery by providing the incentivization to the individual, FPOs, SHGs, Section 8 companies for entrepreneurship development and also to the State Government for breed improvement infrastructure.
    7. Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): to provide for prophylactic vaccination against animal diseases, capacity building of veterinary services, disease surveillance, and strengthening veterinary infrastructure.

      Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is continuously organizing social media campaigns through the official channels to make people aware about the nutritional benefits of milk. These campaigns include awareness posts, infographics, reels and engagement through hashtags and digital outreach.

      This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2114715) Visitor Counter : 63

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM shares an article on India’s remarkable progress on fight against TB

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:36PM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today shared an article by Union Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda regarding key insights on the recently concluded 100-day Intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan which has set a strong foundation for a TB-free India.

    The Prime Minister’s Office handle on X posted:

    “India’s fight against TB is witnessing remarkable progress. The Union Health Minister, Shri @JPNadda shares key insights on the recently concluded 100-day Intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan which has set a strong foundation for a TB-free India – A must read.”

     

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2114708) Visitor Counter : 110

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Japan to rejuvenate pharma landscape with new Government fund and policy reforms, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Japan to rejuvenate pharma landscape with new Government fund and policy reforms, says GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW) announced a new 10 year government fund in January 2025 to support innovative drug development. The initiative signals a stronger push towards pro-innovation policies, aiming to strengthen drug discovery capabilities and build a more resilient pharmaceutical ecosystem in the country, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    This new fund is part of a series of supportive steps Japan took over the past few years to enhance its pharmaceutical sector since the establishment of the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) in 2016 to accelerate medical research and development.

    Sasmitha Sahu, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “In recent years, Japan has recognized the need to bolster its pharmaceutical industry to remain competitive globally. This initiative reflects Japan’s commitment to enhancing its drug discovery capabilities and fostering a robust pharmaceutical ecosystem.”

    According to GlobalData Pharma Intelligence Center drugs database, Japanese companies have 62 innovator drugs in the pre-registration phase, with 174 drugs in Phase III and 213 drugs in Phase II, as of 20 March 2025.

    Sahu adds: “Japan’s aging population is driving demand for innovative treatments in regenerative medicine, personalized therapies, and AI-driven drug discovery. Despite challenges, government-backed R&D incentives and digital health advancements are fostering a competitive and evolving pharma landscape.The growing government funding amid the changing regulatory scenario in Japan is going to be conducive for the growing number of innovator drugs lined up in the pipeline and will provide a smooth access to market once they are successful through the clinical trials.”

    Many other initiatives include the Pharmaceutical Industry Vision 2021, announced by the MHLW, revisions to the Price Maintenance Premium (PMP) in 2023 and 2024, the Integrated Innovation Strategy 2023, approved by Japan’s Cabinet, the amendment of the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices (PMD) Act in 2024, the unveiling of a roadmap in 2024 to double private investments in drug discovery startups by 2028 and enhance the clinical trial system in the country.

    Sahu adds: “Japan had started reviewing its lengthy regulatory approval processes and time to reduce drug lag and supply shortages to lessen reliance on imported medicines and improve patient access to critical treatments. Financial pressures from the rising healthcare costs have led to strict drug pricing reforms, pushing pharma companies to develop cost-effective solutions. The amendments further aim to streamline approvals and strengthen domestic production to mitigate these challenges.”

    Australia and South Korea have similar government funds focussing on innovative drug development.

    Sahu concludes: “While Japan’s initiative aligns with other Asia-Pacific countries in terms of government support and innovation, it is specifically designed to address its unique challenges, including drug lag and pricing reforms. This initiative not only promises economic growth but also holds the potential to bring groundbreaking medical advancements to the world. The success of this initiative will depend on its ability to attract global investments and enhance Japan’s competitiveness in the pharmaceutical sector.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Stolen motor vehicle – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information after a stolen motor vehicle and dangerous driving incident in Katherine this morning.

    Around 1:40am, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a white Toyota Hilux Utility driving dangerously throughout Katherine.

    It is alleged that there were seven occupants inside the vehicle and two riding in the tray at the time, with the vehicle swerving toward St John Ambulance on two occasions.

    At around 3:30am, police successfully deployed a tyre deflation device along the Stuart Highway and the stolen vehicle came to a stop near the Katherine Bridge.

    Two youths aged 11 and 14 respectively were arrested at the scene and several remaining youths were seen jumping off the bridge and into the Katherine River to evade apprehension.

    An immediate search was commenced with the assistance of a NT Emergency Services vessel.

    A 15-year-old female alleged offender was located nearby on the Victoria Highway with a suspected broken arm.

    She was conveyed to Katherine District Hospital for treatment.

    The remaining 7 youths, aged between 12 and 16, have now been located and are assisting police with enquiries.

    Investigations remain ongoing.

    Police urge anyone who has information about this incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25081469.

    Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bureau of Indian Standards establishes Standards on Respiratory Protection, Fall Prevention, and Fire Safety for overall occupational health and safety of workers

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 3:42PM by PIB Delhi

    The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is dedicated to ensuring the quality of products and services in India. The Indian Standards formulated by BIS serve as the foundation for Product Certification Schemes, offering third- party assurance of product quality to consumers. To strengthen the country’s quality eco system, the Government of India has issued various Quality Control Orders (QCOs) that mandate BIS certification for a range of products including industries and construction sectors. Under the provisions of BIS Act, 2016, products for compulsory BIS certification are notified by the concerned regulator/line ministry of Government of India through Quality Control Orders (QCOs) under various considerations viz. public interest, protection of human, animal or plant health, safety of environment, prevention of unfair trade practices and national security. Through the issuance of QCOs, the notified products shall conform to the requirements of the relevant Indian Standard including safety standard and the manufacturers of these products have to compulsorily obtain certification from BIS. So far, a total of 187 Quality Control Order’s covering 769 products have been notified for compulsory certification of BIS by various regulators/line ministries of Government of India, the list of which is available at https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/.

    Additionally, the following two horizontal QCO’s exclusively for safety aspects of products are also notified by Government of India:

    1. Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances (Quality Control) Order, 2024 issued by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Through the QCO, all electrical appliances intended for household, commercial or similar applications with rated voltage not exceeding 250 V single phase alternating current or 415 V three phase alternating current and which do not fall under the scope of any other Quality Control Order issued under the Bureau of Indian Standards Act are covered under compulsory certification of BIS.
    2. Machinery and Electrical Equipment Safety (Omnibus Technical Regulation) Order, 2024 issued by Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India. Through the QCO, 20 categories of Machinery and electrical equipment’s and their sub-assemblies / components are covered under compulsory certification of BIS

    Branch Offices of BIS have conducted Manak Manthans on the subject Labour Safety at Workplace in different cities like Gwalior, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Hubli, Chennai, Dehradun. These sessions facilitated discussions among stakeholders, including government bodies, industries, and standard organizations, to improve safety practices at the workplace and raised awareness about labour safety standards and promoting their implementation.

    Workplace safety is a critical component of occupational health, ensuring employee well-being and reducing risks that may lead to injuries or fatalities. The introduction and adherence to newly developed safety standards provide comprehensive guidelines for mitigating workplace hazards. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has established various Indian Standards on Respiratory Protection, Fall Prevention, and Fire Safety to enhance overall occupational health and safety (OHS), safeguarding workers and fostering a safer working environment.

    1. Respiratory Protection Standards and their Role in Occupational Health and Safety: Respiratory protection is crucial in industries such as mining, construction, chemical processing, and healthcare, where workers are exposed to harmful airborne contaminants. The Indian Standards (IS) for respiratory protective devices ensure that workers have access to high-quality protective equipment, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses. Key Indian Standards in Respiratory Protection are given as under:
    1. IS 9473: 2002– Respiratory protective devices — Filtering half masks to protect against particles.
    2. IS 14166: 1994– Respiratory protective devices – Self-contained open-circuit compressed air breathing apparatus.
    3. IS 14746: 1999– Respiratory protective devices – Self-contained closed-circuit breathing apparatus.
    4. IS 15803: 2008– Respiratory protective devices – Powered filtering devices incorporating a helmet or hood.
    5. IS 10245 (Part 1): 1996– Respiratory protective devices – Self-contained breathing apparatus.
    6. IS 10245 (Part 2): 2023– Industrial and firefighting self-contained breathing apparatus.
    7. IS 10245 (Part 3): 1999– Respiratory protective devices – Chemical oxygen apparatus.
    8. IS 10245 (Part 4): 1982– Respiratory protective devices – Industrial and mining oxygen respirators.
    1. Fall Prevention Standards and their Role in Occupational Health and Safety: Falls from height are a leading cause of workplace fatalities and injuries. The IS 3521 series provides guidelines on personal fall protection systems to mitigate risks in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and warehousing. Key Indian Standards in Fall Prevention are given as under:
    1. IS 3521 (Part 1): 2021 – Full-body harnesses.
    2. IS 3521 (Part 2): 2021– Lanyards and energy absorbers.
    3. IS 3521 (Part 3): 2000 – Self-retracting lifelines.
    4. IS 3521 (Part 4): 2021– Vertical anchorage systems.
    5. IS 3521 (Part 5): 2021  – Horizontal anchorage systems.
    6. IS 3521 (Part 7): 2021 – Connectors.
    7. IS 3521 (Part 8): 2021 – Rescue equipment.
    8. IS 3521 (Part 9): 2021 – Anchorage devices.
    1. Fire Safety Standards and their Role in Occupational Health and Safety: Fires pose a significant threat to workplace safety, particularly in industries handling flammable materials. The implementation of stringent fire safety standards ensures that workers are adequately protected from burns, smoke inhalation, and other fire-related hazards. Key Indian Standards in Fire Safety are given as under:

     

    1. IS 16890: 2024  – Firefighter suits.
    2. IS 16874: 2018 – Firefighter gloves.
    3. IS 15683: 2018 – Fire extinguishers.
    4. IS 2745: 1983 –  Non – Metal helmet for firemen and Civil Defence personnel
    5. IS 18582 (Part 6): 2024 – Foot wear used by Firefighters

    This information was given by the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri B.L. Verma in a written reply today in the Rajya Sabha.

     

    *****

    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2114827) Visitor Counter : 39

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported assault on a SC student by some upper caste boys in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu

    Source: Government of India

    NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported assault on a SC student by some upper caste boys in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu

    Issues notices to the State DGP and the District Collector, Thoothukudi calling for a detailed report within four weeks

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 3:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that a Class-XI student, belonging to the Scheduled Caste, was assaulted by some upper caste boys from his locality in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu. Reportedly, the incident happened when the victim onboard a bus was travelling to appear for his exam. He was dragged out of the bus by the perpetrators and assaulted with a sickle, severing his fingers from his left hand. Reportedly, the father of the victim who reportedly tried to intervene was also assaulted.

    The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the victim student. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Director General of Police, and the District Collector, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.

    According to the media report, carried on 12th March, 2025, after the attack, the perpetrators managed to escape and the boy was rushed to the hospital from where he was admitted to the Tirunelveli Government Hospital. After a seven-hour-long surgery, a team of doctors managed to re-attach the fingers of the boy.

     

    *****

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2114825) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FOR DRUG DEMAND REDUCTION (NAPDDR)

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 2:55PM by PIB Delhi

    The number of people benefiting from the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) has increased to 5,81,813 beneficiaries in 2023-24 as compared to 3,39,588 beneficiaries in 2022-23. Under NAPDDR, during the current financial year 2024-25 (as on 19.03.2025), a total number of 6,47,799 beneficiaries have availed services at the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment supported treatment and rehabilitation centres.

    As informed by Narcotics Control Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, the comparative details of drug seizures effected by all Drug Law Enforcement Agencies (DLEAs) during last three years and the details of drug seizures (cases & quantity of drug seized) effected along Indo-Pak bordering States viz; Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan & Gujarat is enclosed as Annexure-I.

    Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) was launched on 15th August 2020 by Department of Social Justice & Empowerment in 272 identified most vulnerable districts and now it is being implemented in all districts of the country. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan has reached out to the masses and spread awareness about substance use with focus on higher educational Institutions, university campuses & schools. Till now, through the various activities undertaken under NMBA, 14.79+ crore people have been sensitized on substance use including 4.96+ crore youth and 2.97+ crore women. Participation of 4.16+ lakh educational institutions has ensured that the message of the Abhiyaan reaches children and youth of the country. Since launch of NMBA, the number of people benefiting from the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) has increased to 5,81,813 beneficiaries in 2023-24 as compared to 2,08,415 beneficiaries in 2020-21.

    A National Toll-free Helpline for de-addiction, 14446 is being maintained by the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment for providing primary counselling and immediate referral services to the persons seeking help through this helpline. This Helpline has been integrated with Tele Mental Health Assistance & Networking Across States (Tele MANAS) helpline of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) to ensure that the help seekers get psychosocial support and counselling services to individuals in need. Tele MANAS is an initiative launched by MoHFW in October, 2022 to provide free Tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock.

    As informed by Narcotics Control Bureau, Ministry of Home Affairs, the Government of India has taken significant steps to improve coordination and cooperation with neighbouring countries for better border control mechanism. The details are enclosed as Annexure-II.

    This information was provided by UNION MINISTER OF STATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT, SHRI B.L. VERMA, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

    *****

    VM

    (Lok Sabha US Q4012)

    (Release ID: 2114800) Visitor Counter : 66

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Measures taken to reduce healthcare costs

    Source: Government of India

    Measures taken to reduce healthcare costs

    Out-of-Pocket Expenditure as percentage of Total Health Expenditure has declined from 62.6% in 2014-15 to 39.4% in 2021-22

    Government Health Expenditure as percentage of Total Health Expenditure has increased from 29.0% in 2014-15 to 48.0% in 2021-22

    National Free Drugs Service initiative and Free diagnostic Service has been rolled out to ensure availability of essential drugs and diagnostic facilities

    1.76 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs have been established and operationalized which deliver expanded range of comprehensive primary healthcare services

    AB-PMJAY aims to provide health cover of Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to approximately 55 crore beneficiaries corresponding to 12.37 crore families constituting the economically vulnerable bottom 40% of India’s population

    Quality generic medicines are made available at affordable prices to all under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 1:51PM by PIB Delhi

    As per National Health Accounts (NHA) Estimates, the Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) as percentage of Total Health Expenditure (THE) has been declining continuously, 62.6% (2014-15) to 39.4% (2021-22). The Government is making efforts to reduce the OOPE as % of THE. There has been significant increase in Government Health Expenditure (GHE) as percentage of THE, which was 29.0% in 2014-15 and 48.0% in 2021-22.

    Further, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has rolled out and implemented various national schemes and programs to provide accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services to all, including those in rural areas. These key schemes/programs have contributed to reducing out-of-pocket expenditures in availing of health services, some are given as under: 

    National Health Mission (NHM): Under the National Health Mission, the Government has taken many steps towards universal health coverage, by supporting the State Governments in providing accessible and affordable healthcare to people. The National Health Mission provides support for improvement in health infrastructure, availability of adequate human resources to man health facilities, to improve availability and accessibility to quality health care especially for the underserved and marginalized groups in rural areas. National Free Drugs Service initiative and Free diagnostic Service has been rolled out to ensure availability of essential drugs and diagnostic facilities and reduce out of pocket expenditure of the patients visiting public health facilities.

    Ayushman Arogya Mandir: A total of 1.76 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) have been established and operationalized by transforming existing Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) in rural and urban areas. The purpose of AAMs are to deliver the expanded range of comprehensive primary healthcare services that includes preventive, promotive, curative, palliative and rehabilitative services encompassing Reproductive and Child care services, Communicable diseases, Non-communicable diseases and all health issues, which are universal, free and closer to the community.       

    Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) was launched as a mission to develop the capacities of primary, secondary and tertiary health care systems; strengthen existing national institutions and create new institutions to cater to detection and cure of new and emerging diseases. PM-ABHIM is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with some Central Sector components. The total outlay of the scheme is Rs 64,180 crore.

    Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) aims to provide health cover of Rs. 5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization to approximately 55 crore beneficiaries corresponding to 12.37 crore families constituting the economically vulnerable bottom 40% of India’s population. States/UTs implementing AB PM-JAY have further expanded the beneficiary base, at their own cost. Recently, the scheme has been expanded to cover 6 crore senior citizens of age 70 years and above belonging to 4.5 crore families irrespective of their socio-economic status under AB PM-JAY with Vay Vandana Card.

    Besides, quality generic medicines are made available at affordable prices to all under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in collaboration with the State Governments. Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) Pharmacy stores have been set up in some hospitals/institutions.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ Measures taken to reduce healthcare costs/25 March 2025/2

    (Release ID: 2114761) Visitor Counter : 15

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Update on Ayushman Arogya Mandir

    Source: Government of India

    Update on Ayushman Arogya Mandir

    1,76,573 AAMs have been operationalized across the country till February 2025

    107.10 crore screenings for hypertension and 94.56 crore screenings for diabetes have been conducted at AAMs

    A total of 5.06 crore wellness sessions including Yoga have been conducted at AAMs

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 1:50PM by PIB Delhi

    As reported by States/UTs on the Ayushman Arogya Mandir (AAM) portal, a total of 1,76,573 AAMs have been operationalised across the country till February, 2025. As per portal, 107.10 crore screenings for hypertension and 94.56 crore screenings for diabetes have been conducted at AAMs.

    Wellness-related activities like Yoga, cycling, and meditation are conducted in AAMs. As on 28.02.2025, a total of 5.06 crore wellness sessions including Yoga have been conducted at AAMs.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

     

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ Update on Ayushman Arogya Mandir/25 March 2025/3

    (Release ID: 2114759) Visitor Counter : 9

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Steps taken on Mental Health

    Source: Government of India

    Steps taken on Mental Health

    AB PM-JAY provides cashless healthcare services related to 1961 procedures across 27 medical specialties including 22 procedures under Mental Disorder Speciality

    District Mental Health Programme component of the National Mental Health Programme has been sanctioned for implementation in 767 districts for which support is provided to States/UTs through the National Health Mission

    Under the tertiary care component of NMHP, 25 Centres of Excellence have been sanctioned to increase the intake of students in PG departments in mental health specialities as well as to provide tertiary level treatment facilities

    47 Government run mental hospitals are functional in the country, including 3 Central Mental Health Institutions

    36 States/ UTs have set up 53 Tele MANAS Cells and have started tele mental health services. More than 19,67,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number

    Government has also launched Tele MANAS Mobile Application on the occasion of World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024 to provide support for mental health issues ranging from well-being to mental disorders

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 1:48PM by PIB Delhi

    Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has issued Master Circular on Health Insurance Business dated 29.05.2024, vide which insurers are required to provide wider choice to policyholders by offering products catering to all types of existing medical conditions; pre-existing diseases and chronic conditions. Insurers are also mandated to make available products in compliance with the provisions of Mental Health Care Act, 2017. In line with the above provisions, products are available in the market providing coverage for mental illness as per the respective product designs of the insurers.

    Under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), the latest national master of the Health Benefit Package (HBP) provides cashless healthcare services related to 1961 procedures across 27 medical specialties including 22 procedures under Mental Disorder Speciality such as Intellectual Disability, Schizophrenia, schizotypal, delusional disorders, autism spectrum disorder etc, to eligible beneficiaries. Further, States have been provided flexibility to further customize the Health Benefit Packages to local context.

    As per centrally available data at National health Authority (NHA), as on 21.03.2025, 77,634 hospital admission worth Rs 87 Crore have been authorized under the scheme.

    For providing affordable and accessible mental healthcare facilities in the country, the Government is implementing the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP) in the country. The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) component of the NMHP has been sanctioned for implementation in 767 districts for which support is provided to States/UTs through the National Health Mission.  Facilities made available under DMHP at the Community Health Centre (CHC) and Primary Health Centre (PHC) levels, include outpatient services, assessment, counselling/ psycho-social interventions, continuing care and support to persons with severe mental disorders, drugs, outreach services, ambulance services etc. In addition to above services there is a provision of 10 bedded in-patient facility at the district level.

    The Government is also taking steps to strengthen mental healthcare services at primary healthcare level. The Government has upgraded more than 1.75 lakh Sub Health Centres (SHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Mental, Neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS) have been added in the packages of services under Comprehensive Primary Health Care provided at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.

    Under the tertiary care component of NMHP, 25 Centres of Excellence have been sanctioned to increase the intake of students in PG departments in mental health specialities as well as to provide tertiary level treatment facilities.  Further, the Government has also supported 19 Government medical colleges/institutions to strengthen 47 PG Departments in mental health specialties.

    There are 47 Government run mental hospitals in the country, including 3 Central Mental Health Institutions, viz. National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, Tezpur, Assam and Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi. Mental Health Services are also provisioned in all AIIMS.

    The Government is also augmenting the availability of manpower to deliver mental healthcare services in the underserved areas of the country by providing online training courses to various categories of general healthcare medical and para medical professionals through the Digital Academies, established since 2018, at the three Central Mental Health Institutes namely National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bengaluru, Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, Tezpur, Assam, and Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi. The total number of professionals trained under Digital Academies are 42,488.

    Besides the above, the Government has launched a “National Tele Mental Health Programme” on 10th October, 2022, to further improve access to quality mental health counselling and care services in the country. As on 19.03.2025, 36 States/ UTs have set up 53 Tele MANAS Cells and have started tele mental health services.  More than 19,67,000 calls have been handled on the helpline number.

    The Government has also launched Tele MANAS Mobile Application on the occasion of World Mental Health Day – October 10, 2024. Tele-MANAS Mobile Application is a comprehensive mobile platform that has been developed to provide support for mental health issues ranging from well-being to mental disorders.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ Steps taken on Mental Health/25 March 2025/1

    (Release ID: 2114756) Visitor Counter : 11

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Steps taken to expand healthcare professionals in rural areas

    Source: Government of India

    Steps taken to expand healthcare professionals in rural areas

    Hard area allowance is provided to specialist doctors for serving in rural and remote areas

    Honorarium is provided to Gynecologists/ Emergency Obstetric Care trained, Pediatricians & Anesthetist/ Life Saving Anaesthesia Skills trained doctors to increase availability of specialists for conducting Cesarean Sections in rural & remote area

    Non-Monetary incentives such as preferential admission in post graduate courses for staff serving in difficult areas and improving accommodation arrangement in rural areas have been introduced under NHM

    Multi-skilling of doctors is supported under NHM to overcome the shortage of specialists

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 1:45PM by PIB Delhi

    The details of healthcare professionals in urban and rural areas are available at website of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare at the Uniform Resources Locator (URL) as under: https://mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/.pdf

    Under the National Health Mission, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare provides technical and financial support to the States/UTs to strengthen the public healthcare system including to take measures to improve healthcare infrastructure in rural areas to support and retain medical professionals based on the proposals received in the form of Programme Implementation Plans (PIPs) under National Health Mission. Government of India provides financial approval for the proposal in the form of Record of Proceedings (RoPs) as per norms & available resources. The details are available in public domain at: https://nhm.gov.in/index1.php

    Under NHM, following types of incentives and honorarium are provided for encouraging healthcare professionals including females to practice in rural and remote areas of the country:

    • Hard area allowance to specialist doctors for serving in rural and remote areas and for their residential quarters so that they find it attractive to serve in public health facilities in such areas.
    • Honorarium to Gynecologists/ Emergency Obstetric Care (EmoC) trained, Pediatricians & Anesthetist/ Life Saving Anaesthesia Skills (LSAS) trained doctors is also provided to increase availability of specialists for conducting Cesarean Sections in rural & remote area.
    • Incentives like special incentives for doctors, incentive for Auxiliary Nurse and Midwife (ANM) for ensuring timely Antenatal Checkup (ANC) checkup and recording, incentives for conducting Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health activities.
    • States are also allowed to offer negotiable salary to attract specialist including flexibility in strategies such as “You Quote We Pay”.
    • Non-Monetary incentives such as preferential admission in post graduate courses for staff serving in difficult areas and improving accommodation arrangement in rural areas have also been introduced under NHM.
    • Multi-skilling of doctors is supported under NHM to overcome the shortage of specialists. Skill upgradation of existing HR is another major strategy under NRHM for achieving improvement in health outcomes.

    In addition to the National Health Mission, Government of India has implemented the following to improve healthcare infrastructure in rural and urban areas of the country:

    • Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) envisages increased investments in public health and other health reforms to provide better access to health in rural areas by i) Strengthening of Health and Wellness Centres in villages and cities for early detection of diseases; ii) Addition of new critical care-related beds at district level hospitals; iii) Support for Block Public Health Units (BPHU) in 11 high focus States; and iv) Integrated district public health laboratories in all districts.
    • The Fifteenth Finance Commission (FC-XV) has recommended grants through local governments for specific components of the health sector and spread over the five-year period from FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26 to facilitate strengthening of health system at the grass-root level.

    Further, as per the ‘Guidelines for Human Resources for Health, National Health Mission (NHM)’, States/ UTs should make sure that living quarters/lodging facilities are provided to the HRH, especially in rural and difficult areas, close to the health facilities. The State may also explore the option of providing crèche facilities for women working with the NHM in the Block/District/ State offices.

    The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated this in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ Steps taken to expand healthcare professionals in rural areas/25 March 2025/4

    (Release ID: 2114753) Visitor Counter : 9

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ICMR Pioneers Drone-Based Cornea Transport to Revolutionize Eye Care

    Source: Government of India

    ICMR Pioneers Drone-Based Cornea Transport to Revolutionize Eye Care

    Successful Pilot Demonstrates the Potential of Aerial Medical Logistics for Timely and Efficient Cornea Transplants under ICMR’s i-DRONE Initiative

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 1:38PM by PIB Delhi

    Aligning with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to make India self-reliant and technologically empowered, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has launched a pioneering study on the aerial transport of human corneas and amniotic membrane grafts.

    ICMR in collaboration with AIIMS New Delhi and Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital and with the support from Ministry of Civil Aviation has conducted a feasibility study to assess the potential of using drones to transport sensitive ophthalmic biomaterials such as human corneas and amniotic membrane grafts from peripheral collection centres to tertiary hospitals for transplantation procedures, in Sonipat and Jhajjar, Haryana. The drone successfully transported corneal tissue from Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital (Sonipat centre) to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), AIIMS Jhajjar, and subsequently to AIIMS New Delhi. The distance between the two cities was covered in around 40 minutes via drones which usually takes around 2-2.5 hours to cover via road. The drone maintained optimal conditions for specimen integrity and upon arrival, the cornea was evaluated, leading to a successful transplant surgery.

    Drones are emerging as game changers in healthcare logistics, offering rapid delivery of life-saving medical supplies to remote and hard-to-reach areas. The timely transportation of corneal tissues is critical, as the viability of donated corneas is time-sensitive. Delays in transportation can compromise tissue quality and reduce the chances of successful transplantation. Drone-based transport offers a swift, temperature-stable, and efficient alternative to traditional road networks, which are often slow or unpredictable—especially in semi-urban or rural areas. This can help bridge the gap between donor sites and recipients, ensuring that no viable tissue goes unused and that more patients regain sight in time.

    Over the past few years, ICMR’s i-DRONE initiative has demonstrated the successful use of drones to deliver essential medical supplies in states such as North East India (Covid-19 and UIP vaccines, medications, and surgical), Himachal Pradesh (medications and samples in high altitude and sub-zero temperatures), Karnataka (intraoperative oncosurgical samples), Telangana (TB sputum samples) and the NCR (blood bags and its components). These efforts highlight the growing capability and promise of drones in bridging the last-mile healthcare gap.

    Commenting on the development, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, the Department of Health Research (DHR) and Director General, ICMR, stated:

    “The i-DRONE platform was originally conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver vaccines to remote regions. Since then, we’ve scaled our efforts to include low-temperature delivery of blood products and essential medicines to high-altitude and sub-zero locations. This cornea transport study marks another step forward—enhancing patient access, ensuring timely transplants, and reducing pressure on overburdened tertiary hospitals. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Honourable Prime Minister’s vision of a self-reliant India powered by innovation. Drone-based healthcare logistics are the future, and India is taking the lead by applying this to areas where it matters most—saving lives and restoring sight.”

    Shri Piyush Srivastava, Additional Secretary and Senior Economic Advisor, Ministry of Civil Aviation, added:

    “This collaboration between health and aviation sectors is an inspiring example of tech-enabled social impact. The use of drones for cornea delivery showcases India’s growing capability to solve real-world healthcare challenges using homegrown solutions. Drones offer a scalable solution for timely medical delivery in geographically challenging areas. As India strengthens its drone ecosystem, such studies are critical to building resilient and responsive healthcare infrastructure.”

    Prof. (Dr.) M Srinivas, Director, AIIMS, New Delhi, remarked:

    “Corneal blindness affects millions in India, and timely availability of donor tissue is often a limiting factor. This drone-based transport model could be a transformative step toward ensuring equitable access to vision-restoring surgeries, especially in underserved areas. The success of this pilot project opens the door to deploying precision drone logistics for a wide range of critical medical applications.”

    Through this study, researchers aim to document operational workflows, identify technical bottlenecks, and generate evidence to support the integration of drone logistics in routine medical practice—especially for time-sensitive and temperature-sensitive biological materials like human corneas. The findings will help shape future protocols, policies, and best practices for aerial transport in healthcare. The event was attended by many dignitaries including Dr Anil Kumar, Director, National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation, MoHFW.

    ****

    MV

    HFW/ ICMR – Drone Based Cornea Transport/25 March 2025/5

    (Release ID: 2114748) Visitor Counter : 72

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PUBLIC AWARENESS AND PARTICIPATION IN ANIMAL WELFARE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:49PM by PIB Delhi

    One of the key functions of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), under Section 9(k) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, is to impart education on the humane treatment of animals and promote public awareness against the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals. This is achieved through various means, including lectures, books, posters, cinematographic exhibitions, and more. Various steps taken to enhance public awareness and participation in animal welfare initiatives, particularly among school children are placed at Annexure-1.

    AWBI is publishing various guidelines, regulations and booklets so as to sensitize the law enforcement authorities on the issues related to animal welfare laws. AWBI also organized the training programmes for the Law enforcement authorities to sensitize them on the issues related to animal welfare laws.

    During this financial year, a One-day training programme was conducted for the Police Officials on 19.10.2024 at Police Training School, Thanisandra, Bengaluru on Animal Welfare Laws. During this training, sessions on Importance on Animal Welfare, PCA Act, 1960, Regulations on Slaughter and Transportation of Animals, ABC Rules and Practical Training and case studies were covered. The subject experts in the field of animal welfare laws and rules delivered their lectures to sensitize the officials of the Police Department. The Superintendent of Police and Principal, Police Training School and his team coordinated in successful conducting of the training programme.

    AWBI has published four books to create awareness amongst the State Governments and UTs including Law enforcement authorities as per the details given below:

    1. Law Enforcement Handbook on Animal Welfare Laws
    2. Animal Law Handbook for Urban Local bodies
    3. Handbook for Veterinary Officers on Animal Welfare Laws
    4. Revised Animal Birth Control (ABC) module for Street Dogs Population management, rabies eradication and reducing man-dog conflict.

    AWBI, on receipt of complaints regarding cruelty to animals from various parts of the country, is taking up the matters with the concerned State Governments and District Collectors / Magistrates / District Superintendent of police sensitizing them about the existing animal welfare laws for conducting an enquiry to the cruelty matters. The State Authorities are empowered to initiate appropriate action against the offenders meting out cruelty to animals and to take action as per the law.

    The details of letters issued for awareness for Amroha, Uttar Pradesh are given in Annexure-2.

    As per Section 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, it shall be the duty of every person having the care or charge of any animal to take all reasonable measures to ensure the well-being of such animal and to prevent the infliction upon such animal of unnecessary pain or suffering.

    Also, as per Section 11(1)(i) of the PCA Act, 1960, If any person, without reasonable cause, abandons any animal in circumstances which render it likely that it will suffer pain by reason of starvation or thirst; he shall be punishable, in the case of a first offence, with fine which shall not be less than ten rupees but which may extend to fifty rupees and in the case of a second or subsequent offence committed within three years of the previous offence, with fine which shall not be less than twenty-five rupees but which may extend to one hundred rupees or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months, or with both

    As per the Article 246(3) of the Constitution of India in List II of Seventh Schedule the Preservation, protection and improvement of stock and prevention of animal diseases; veterinary training and practice is under State list on which the State has exclusive power to make laws for such State or any part thereof with respect to any of the matters enumerated in List II in the Seventh Schedule. Accordingly, it is the responsibility of the local bodies to take care of the stray animals and to regularize the process of registration of the Pet Ownership in their respective municipal areas, which will help in monitoring the number of pet animals.

    Details of rules notified and advisories issued by the Central Government are placed at Annexure – 3.

    Annexure-1

    Steps taken to enhance public awareness and participation in animal welfare initiatives, particularly among school children

    1. AWBI has been consistently encouraging animal welfare organizations and individuals by nominating them as Honorary Animal Welfare Representative (HAWR) to extend educational programs to schools by organizing activities such as poster competitions, painting contests, and essay writing competitions. These programs aim to foster compassion towards animals and help shape better, more responsible citizens.
    2. To support these efforts, AWBI has developed educational modules for school children in two age groups: Class V-VIII and Class IX-XII. These modules cover various topics aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing students about animal welfare. For Classes V-VII, the subjects include Compassion for Animals, Animal Behavior, Animal Cruelty, Responsible Pet Ownership, and Animal Superstition. For Classes IX-XII, the modules cover more advanced topics like Veterinary Help for Pet and Street Animals, Conflict Mitigation, Achievements in Animal Welfare, Animal Welfare and Sustainability, Human Health, and Ahimsa (Culture and Heritage in India). These modules have been circulated to the Department of Education in all State Governments and UTs to ensure wide dissemination.
    3. AWBI has also initiated training programs in schools to ensure that its message reaches young children effectively. In addition, regular seminars, workshops, and awareness programs conducted by State Governments and animal welfare organizations play a crucial role in sensitizing the public, particularly animal lovers.
    4. The AWBI regularly issues advisories and circulars to raise public awareness about animal welfare. These advisories are issued during key events such as Animal Welfare Fortnight (January 14 to 30), World Animal Day, World Rabies Day, humane celebrations of Deepavali, and during the summer and winter seasons to emphasize animal welfare concerns.
    5. Moreover, AWBI conducts training programs for Honorary Animal Welfare Representatives and issues Colony Animal CareTaker authorization letters to compassionate individuals who care for community animals in their local areas. These efforts help in promoting the well-being of animals and fostering a compassionate society.

    Annexure-2

    Letters issued for awareness for Amroha, Uttar Pradesh

    S.No.

    Date of Complaint

    Subject of Complaint

    Letter to whom

    1

    31.05.2022

    Request to take necessary action to save life of stray animals in Amroha

    Letter dated 31.05.2022 was issued to the District Magistrate, Amroha, Uttar Pradesh

    2

    13.04.2024

    Requested to implementation the provisions of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 and AWBI Module to control the population of the street dogs effectively in District Amroha

    Letter dated 24.04.2024 was issued to the Member Secretary, Uttar Pradesh State Animal Welfare Board & The Director, Animal Husbandry Department, Directorate of Animal Husbandry, Gokarnnath Rd, Badshah Bagh, Lucknow and The Municipal Commissioner Municipal Corporation of Amroha

    3

    07.02.2025

    Complaint against the owner of the Pit Bull for attacking and killing a Community Dog in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh

    Letter dated 04.03.2025 was issued to the Member Secretary, Uttar Pradesh State Animal Welfare Board & The Director, Animal Husbandry Department, Directorate of Animal Husbandry, Gokarnnath Rd, Badshah Bagh, Lucknow

    Annexure-3

    Details of rules notified and advisories issued by the Central Government

    1. The Central Government has also notified the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Dog Breeding and Marketing) Rules, 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shop) Rules, 2018 to regulate the illegal breeding of animals and to regulate the sale or trade in pet animals respectively. These Rules are being implemented by the respective State Governments and UTs.
    2. The AWBI had issued several advisories in relation to stray dogs and pet animals:
      1. Pet Dogs and Street Dogs Circular dated 26.02.2015.
      2. Circular to all DGPs of all States/UTs regarding harassment to Citizens showing compassion to animals dated 25-08-2015 and 28.10.2015.
      3. Advisory to initiate necessary action for rescue and rehabilitation of stray animals dated 12-07-2018.
      4. Advisory to identify sufficient number of feeding spots for stray dogs in every district and to properly implement the (AWBI Revised Guidelines on Pet dogs and street dogs) dated 03.03.2021.
      5. Request to properly implement and circulate the standard protocol for the adoption of community animals dated 17.05.2022.
      6. Guidelines for use of Muzzle on Dogs and care of community dogs dated 17.08.2022.
      7. Request to Principal Secretary, Urban Development and Animal Husbandry as well as to the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of ABC Rules, 2023 dated 31.03.2023.
      8. Request to all District Magistrate of all Districts of all State/UTs to implement the provision of ABC Rules, 2023 dated 30.05.2023.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2114719) Visitor Counter : 65

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DISEASE SURVEILLANCE

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:48PM by PIB Delhi

    For disease surveillance, prevention and control along with efforts for responsible antibiotic use of the Government are as follows: –

    1. Active disease surveillance on diseases such as Avian influenza, PPR, CSF, FMD etc. are taken up by various ICAR Animal Science institutes. Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Institute on Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics (NIVEDI), Bengaluru provides disease risk forewarnings using Artificial Intelligence and machine learning models (AI &ML) for 15 economically important diseases on monthly basis to every state including displaying on ICAR-NIVEDI’s NADRES V2 portal as well as DAHD portal.
    2. The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has a network of laboratories which includes diagnostic laboratories in the States, one Central Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (CDDL) at Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly and five Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratories (RDDLs) one each at Bengaluru, Pune, Jalandhar, Kolkata and Guwahati for disease surveillance, early detection and swift response to disease threats.
    3. ICAR has strengthened the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by initiating All India Network Programme on AMR (AINP-AMR) involving 31 centres across different states of the country. Indian Network for Fishery and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance (INFAAR) is conducting AMR surveillance to track trends in food animals and aquaculture to understand AMR risk factors in animals and fisheries to devise control strategies.
    4. Department has formulated the National Action Plan on Anti Microbial Resistance (AMR) in consultation with MoH&FW and other stake holders for judicious use, surveillance and monitoring of antibiotics in animal health sector. MoA&FW is also one of the stakeholder in respect to use of pesticides and antibiotics in agriculture sector keeping in view the One Health Initiative and provisions under NAP-AMR. Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries has issued advisories to all State/UTs for judicious use of antibiotics in treatment of food producing animals, for stopping the use of antibiotics in animal feed and for general awareness.
    5. Under Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) scheme, 100% central assistance is provided to States/UTs for vaccination against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Classical Swine Fever (CSF), Lumpy Skin Disease, Black Quarter, Haemorrhagic Septicaemia etc including disease surveillance, monitoring and capacity building. Vaccination reduces the use of antibiotics, hence reduce the AMR.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

    *****

    AA

    (Release ID: 2114717) Visitor Counter : 50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Mental health left behind in Federal Government’s pre-election budget pitch

    Source:

    The 2025-26 Federal Budget shows no commitment to improving access to mental health supports for the Australian community. Australia is facing enormous pressures on our collective mental health and wellbeing. 

    “Despite the rising need for greater investment in mental health, this budget suggests that mental health is far from the front of this government’s mind” says Mental Health Australia CEO Carolyn Nikoloski.

    See full media release at the PDF attached below. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Statement Types of data requested to inform May 2025 COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition deliberations

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The WHO Technical Advisory Group on COVID-19 Vaccine Composition (TAG-CO-VAC) continues to closely monitor the genetic and antigenic evolution of SARS-CoV-2 variants, immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination, and the performance of COVID-19 vaccines against circulating variants. Based on these evaluations, WHO advises vaccine manufacturers and regulatory authorities on the implications for future updates to COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition. The next decision-making meeting of the TAG-CO-VAC is scheduled for May 2025, after which a statement on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition and an accompanying data annex will be published on the WHO website. These meetings are timed to balance the availability of the latest epidemiological, immunological, and virological data, with the kinetics of vaccine-induced protection and the lead time manufacturers need to update the antigen composition of authorized COVID-19 vaccines.

    The purpose of this statement is to guide the scientific community and vaccine manufacturers as to which data should be generated ahead of the May 2025 TAG-CO-VAC deliberations. It is an update to the previous statement on the types of data requested in October 2024.1

    To inform decisions on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition,2-6 the TAG-CO-VAC reviews data (see Table) on the genetic evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and the antigenic characteristics of previously and currently circulating variants. This includes the analysis of animal antisera following primary infection or vaccination in one-way and two-way neutralization tests, as well as immunogenicity data that assess the breadth and durability of immune responses, including neutralizing antibody responses, using sera from sequentially immunized or infected animals and pre-and post-vaccination human sera. The TAG-CO-VAC also considers vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates of currently approved COVID-19 vaccines, particularly those that control for time since vaccination and that provide variant-specific estimates across different vaccine platforms for protection against any infection, symptomatic disease, and severe disease. Further examples of published data reviewed by TAG-CO-VAC and used to inform decisions on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition can be found in the annexes accompanying each of the previous statements.2-6

    In addition, the TAG-CO-VAC reviews available data from vaccine manufacturers, including animal and human studies demonstrating the breadth and durability of immune responses elicited by currently authorized vaccines, as well as any vaccine candidates in development. For vaccine candidates in development, the TAG-CO-VAC highlights the utility of clinical immunogenicity data for decision-making on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition. The TAG-CO-VAC also notes that comparable immunogenicity data (i.e. to the same variants) from previous vaccine compositions are especially useful. Vaccine manufacturers are also asked to provide observational epidemiological data that demonstrate the efficacy or effectiveness of their authorized COVID-19 vaccines, as well as any vaccine candidates in development.

    At this stage, the key antisera and antigens of interest for the May 2025 decision-making meeting for demonstrating breadth include antisera to: BA.2 (other historical reference viruses – e.g., index virus, Alpha, BA.1 – are also useful for determining antigenic relationships), XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2 and potentially emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. Antisera of interest are animal sera after single or sequential exposure and human sera after a boost with monovalent JN.1, KP.2 or XBB.1.5 vaccines. Both pre- and post-vaccination sera should be included and, for all antisera, neutralizing antibody titers should be analyzed against at least one variant that emerged after the vaccine antigen, where feasible. Analysis of these antisera against the same panel of virus antigens as well as other new emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants will provide insight into antigenic characteristics of previous and emerging variants. Emerging variants include the list of SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Interest (VOI) and Variants Under Monitoring (VUM) maintained on the WHO website. Relative VE estimates should be calculated during periods of circulation of XBB, JN.1, KP.3.1.1, XEC or other emerging variant(s) in human populations across age groups, with separate VE estimates for each of the following vaccine antigen compositions: monovalent JN.1, monovalent KP.2 or monovalent XBB.1.5. Where available, the underlying rates of disease outcomes used to derive the relative VE estimates should also be provided.

    In preparation for the May 2025 meeting, the TAG-CO-VAC encourages the scientific community and vaccine manufacturers to prioritize generating and sharing the data outlined in the Table below to ensure evidence-informed deliberations on COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition; please contact the TAG-CO-VAC Secretariat: [tagcovac@who.int].

    Type of data Comments
    SARS-CoV-2 genetic evolution Key variants include the list of Variants of Interest (VOI) and Variants Under Monitoring (VUM). This list is maintained on the WHO website.+
    Antigenic characterization of previous and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants Animal sera following primary infection or vaccination against each of the following variants: BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2 and potentially emerging variants* analyzed in one-way and two-way neutralization tests (pseudotype and live virus neutralization assays).
    Preliminary immunogenicity data on breadth and durability of immune responses following vaccination or infection with SARS-CoV-2 variant antigens. Neutralization of various representative viruses by non-naïve animal sera (e.g., sequentially immunized or infected), for each of the following antigens: BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2  and emerging variants;*
    Neutralization of various representative viruses (BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2 and potentially emerging variants*) by both pre- and post-vaccination human sera. Vaccinee sera should be analyzed in priority order: JN.1, KP.2, XBB.1.5;
    Neutralization of variants (BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2 and potentially emerging variants*) by sera from cohorts that are representative of recent population immunity.
    Vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates of currently approved vaccines Relative VE estimates during periods of circulation of XBB, JN.1, KP.3.1.1, XEC or emerging variant(s) * in human populations. Studies need to estimate relative VE by time since vaccination or at least provide a measure of time since vaccination, such as the mean or median. They should also provide variant-specific estimates and distinct estimates for each of the following vaccine antigen compositions across different vaccine platforms: monovalent JN.1, monovalent KP.2, or monovalent XBB.1.5. Studies should also provide relative VE for a range of outcomes beyond severe disease, including any infection or symptomatic disease. Severe disease should not be defined using generic hospital admission data, but rather with specific criteria such as oxygen use, ventilation, or admission to intensive care due to respiratory symptoms. Where available, underlying rates of disease outcomes used to estimate the relative VE should also be provided.
    Data from vaccine manufacturers Animal and human data that demonstrate the breadth and durability in immune responses elicited by vaccines in current portfolio, as well as any vaccine candidates in development, against BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2  and potentially emerging variants;*
    Observational epidemiological data that demonstrate the efficacy or effectiveness of any vaccines in current portfolio, as well as any vaccine candidates in development, against BA.2, XBB.1.5, JN.1, KP.2, XEC, LP.8.1, LF.7.2 and potentially emerging variants.*

    + WHO website: https://www.who.int/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants   

    * Key emerging variants that evolve and considered relevant for demonstrating breadth include the list of Variants of Interest (VOI) and Variants Under Monitoring (VUM). This list is maintained on the WHO website: https://www.who.int/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants   

    References

    1. World Health Organization. Types of data requested to inform December 2024 COVID-19 vaccine antigen composition deliberations. 7 October 2024. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/07-10-2024-types-of-data-requested-to-inform-december-2024-covid-19-vaccine-antigen-composition-deliberations
    2. World Health Organization. Interim statement on the composition of current COVID-19 vaccines. 17 June 2022. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/17-06-2022-interim-statement-on–the-composition-of-current-COVID-19-vaccines.
    3. World Health Organization. Statement on the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines. 18 May 2023. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/18-05-2023-statement-on-the-antigen-composition-of-covid-19-vaccines.
    4. World Health Organization. Statement on the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines. 13 December 2023. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/13-12-2023-statement-on-the-antigen-composition-of-covid-19-vaccines.
    5. World Health Organization. Statement on the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines. 26 April 2024. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/26-04-2024-statement-on-the-antigen-composition-of-covid-19-vaccines.
    6. World Health Organization. Statement on the antigen composition of COVID-19 vaccines. 23 December 2024. Available from: https://www.who.int/news/item/23-12-2024-statement-on-the-antigen-composition-of-covid-19-vaccines

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: New wave of violence in Ituri DRC further risks civilian lives

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    • People in Ituri province, northeastern DRC, are living amidst horrific violence, widespread displacement and a lack of aid.

    • Amid the violence, people in Ituri experience difficulties in accessing healthcare, but also our teams in providing it.

    • MSF calls on all state and non-state armed groups in Ituri to spare civilians, as well as healthcare facilities.

    KINSHASA – Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has witnessed a renewed spike in atrocities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)’s Ituri province, where our medical teams are providing care for civilians with horrific injuries. In a new report released today, Risking Their Lives to Survive, MSF underscores the extreme needs of many communities endangered by recent attacks, increased displacement, and reduced humanitarian aid.

    Risking their lives to survive pdf — 12.31 MB Download

    For decades, people in Ituri – in the northeast of DRC – have been both direct targets and treated as collateral damage in a complex conflict characterised by violence, ethnic divisions, and the participation of various armed groups. This conflict has also greatly hampered access to healthcare and the means for families to feed themselves, while the restricted provision of humanitarian aid has caused further suffering among a community that already gets little international attention.

    MSF calls on all state and non-state armed groups in Ituri to spare civilians, as well as healthcare facilities, which are sanctuaries essential to the survival of local communities.

    Violence in Ituri has displaced around 100,000 people since the beginning of the year, according to the UN. In January and February alone, it also reported an intensification of violence against civilians, with attacks leaving more than 200 people dead and dozens injured. In February, MSF’s medical teams treated children as young as four and pregnant women for machete and gunshot wounds, following militia attacks in Djugu territory.

    “These most recent attacks follow decades of violence and its devastating consequences for civilians, including women and children in Ituri,” said Alira Halidou, MSF head of mission in DRC. “The crisis here is characterised by repeated displacement, in which violence forces civilians to pick up and start their lives over, again and again. What is worse, is that the stories patients and communities tell us represent only the tip of the iceberg.” 

    Hindering access to healthcare

    Only a small proportion of people can access healthcare in Ituri, where health facilities also fall prey to attacks. In Djugu territory, the Fataki general hospital was obliged to suspend its activities and evacuate patients in mid-March following armed group threats. This closure affects thousands of people, left without access to medical care. 

    In Drodro health zone, also in Djugu, nearly 50 per cent of healthcare centres have been partially or fully destroyed and have had to be relocated. When violence escalated this time last year, a patient was killed in her bed in an armed attack on Drodro’s general hospital. 

    Not only do these attacks make patients reluctant to go to medical facilities, but they also put medical staff at risk. One doctor interviewed for the report recounted how, when a health centre was forced to shut down for two months, he still went in to perform caesarean sections.

    “It was dangerous, and I was risking my life, but we didn’t have a choice,” said the doctor. “We had to sneak there with the women, otherwise they would have died.” 

    Targeting the most vulnerable

    More than half of the 39 victims of violence MSF treated at Salama clinic, Bunia, up until mid-March 2025 were women and children. One mother, whose four-year-old child was injured, lost her 6-month-old baby and her husband during an attack wielded by machete. Two sisters aged four and 16 took machete blows to the head and arms, and their mother (eight months’ pregnant) was also severely injured by multiple machete wounds. We treated a nine-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the abdomen, who had witnessed assailants attack and kill his mother and two siblings by machete.

    When civilians seek refuge in displacement camps, they are still not safe. In one instance in September 2024, our teams treated five civilians with bullet wounds following an attack on Plaine Savo camp, in Fataki health zone.

    When there is an upsurge in attacks against civilians, the number of victims of sexual violence coming to MSF facilities also increases. Women in particular face attack, as they go out in search of means to feed themselves and their families. In Drodro, in 2023 and 2024, around 84 per cent of the victims of sexual violence treated by MSF were attacked while working in fields, collecting firewood, or on the road.

    Exacerbating unmet needs

    Despite the efforts of the Ministry of Health, MSF, and other humanitarian organisations, people’s needs very much exceed the resources available. Food insecurity worsened sharply in Ituri in 2024 and is now chronic for 43 per cent of people. Poor hygiene conditions and dilapidated shelters in displacement camps mean that diarrhoeal and respiratory diseases spread easily, affecting children under five the most.

    People in Ituri must be guaranteed safe access to healthcare and must not be forced to risk their lives in search of food and other needs. 
     

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank breaks ground on historic state-of-the-art Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) in Barbados, first outside Africa

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, March 25, 2025/APO Group/ —

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com/), Africa’s leading Multilateral Financial Institution, made history today when it broke ground on its first-ever state-of-the-art Afreximbank African Trade Centre (AATC) in the Caribbean, marking a pivotal moment for trade relations between Africa and the CARICOM region.

    The US$180 million Barbados AATC, the first to be established outside Africa, is an authentic icon of trade embodying the ambition, resilience, and influence of leading commercial cities in Africa and the Caribbean that serve as dynamic focal points for commerce, fostering regional and global trade connections.  It is expected to enhance intra-and extra-African trade, with a focus on countries of the Global South through Afreximbank’s Global Africa initiative.

    To facilitate the construction of its iconic AATC in its capital, Bridgetown, the government of Barbados granted Afreximbank 6.4 acres of land at Jemmotts Lane, the former Ministry of Health headquarters. Upon completion, the business complex will house Afreximbank’s CARICOM office, a conference facility, a technology and SME incubator, a Digital Trade Gateway, 100 room hotel, and a trade and exhibition centre, as well as office spaces for local, regional and international financial and policy organisations. This groundbreaking event marks the official commencement of construction for this historic project and is a significant step in Barbados and CARICOM’s journey towards economic advancement and regional integration.

    Afreximbank initiated the AATC concept following a 2018 Board decision to create trade facilitation hubs in key commercial capitals across Africa. These hubs will provide integrated trade information, services, finance, and ancillary facilities. Nine leading commercial cities were subsequently selected to host the network of AATCs across Africa and the Caribbean. They include Abuja (Nigeria), Harare (Zimbabwe), Kampala (Uganda), Cairo (Egypt), Abidjan (Cote d’Ivoire),Yaoundé (Cameroon), Bridgetown (Barbados), Kigali (Rwanda) and Tunis (Tunisia).They will serve to link buyers, sellers, suppliers, service providers, enterprises, governments, chambers of commerce, financial institutions, economic development organisations and the general African and global trade and investment community.

    Delivering the keynote address during the event, The Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados and Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), highlighted the site’s historical significance as the location of Barbados’ first hospital, opened in 1844 to look after the health of emancipated slaves.

    “My government stands proud here today to be able to bring in to the pantheon of financial institutions in this country, Afreximbank, not simply as an entity that is leasing a building from somebody for an office, but as an institution ready to lay roots and foundations in this country – the first AATC outside of Africa, just like Barbados was the first hub (for slaves) outside of the continent of Africa, and in so doing, we send the signal that we intend to be able to reclaim our Atlantic Destiny.”

    She added: “Professor Oramah, I ask you to accept, on behalf of Afreximbank, this clear offer from the Government of Barbados to make available this gesture of over two hectares of land to ensure that the investment will bring jobs to the people of Barbados; that it will bring foreign exchange and investment opportunities to the people of Barbados and the region.”

    Speaking during the groundbreaking, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, thanked the Hon. Mia Mottley, her government and its people for the warm welcome and for being a strong agent for the reunification of Global Africa and hosting Barbados AATC that will also serve as Afreximbank’s regional CARICOM office.

    Prof. Oramah said: “The Barbados AATC will serve as the gateway for Afri-Caribbean trade and investments, creating opportunities for doing business with the Caribbean and for Caribbeans doing business in Africa.

    He expressed confidence that the project would deliver tangible positive economic, community and social impact to Barbados and the Caribbean region by enhancing trade and fostering sustainable development. Prof. Oramah assured the Prime Minister and other leaders present that Afreximbank remained committed to supporting the economic growth and prosperity of Africa and the Caribbean by attracting investments, removing barriers to trade and reshaping the narrative of business in the region.

    The event also featured the official handover of the land for the project from the Government of Barbados to Afreximbank. Construction of the complex is projected to take approximately 30 months, generating around 1,000 direct and indirect jobs during this phase. Additionally, about 50 SMEs will benefit from business opportunities as subcontractors and suppliers of construction materials, labour, and other services. Upon completion, the facility will create 300 permanent jobs, significantly contributing to employment. The facility will include a hotel, which will boost the supply of hotel rooms in Barbados, critical for tourism promotion. It will also house the Bank’s office as well as lettable office spaces, which are expected to be occupied by Caribbean businesses as well as African Banks and businesses that are already beginning to do business in CARICOM.

    Afreximbank has extended its credit lines to CARICOM to the tune of US$2.5 billion, aiming to bolster the region’s development, particularly on the backdrop of Guyana and Suriname’s new oil discoveries, expected to impact the entire region once fully commercialised. In 2024, the Bank provided Barbados with US$25 million for its Cricket World Cup sports complex refurbishment, and currently has deals worth US$500 million in the pipeline.

    Meanwhile, Hon. Dickon Amiss Thomas Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, noted that in the very short period since the Bank landed by choice on the shores of the Caribbean, the region has benefitted tremendously.

    PM Mitchell added: “Grenada will follow Barbados, Guyana and The Bahamas, hosting on July 28 and 29 the Afreximbank Trade and Investment Forum in Grenada. And we do so cognisant of the economic opportunities, trade, investment, financing, the movement of our people, our goods and services between the continent of Africa and the Caribbean.”

    Also participating in the groundbreaking ceremony was Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary General of CARICOM, Afreximbank’s Board Members, the Bank’s Senior Executive Vice President and Vice Presidents and several other notable local and regional government officials and business leaders.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Departmental update Enhancing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance in Mongolia

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infects cells along the human respiratory tract, from the nose to the lungs. Each year globally RSV causes over 3.6 million hospitalizations and about 100 000 deaths in children under 5 years of age. Since 2017, Mongolia has participated in a WHO RSV surveillance project. From 2024 onwards, this surveillance was enhanced, with the aim to understand the incidence and risk factors of severe RSV infections, with technical support from WHO and partners. This article describes six training sessions for sentinel site staff that were held in October 2024, on surveillance practices. 

    RSV is a common respiratory pathogen that causes a wide spectrum of disease, ranging from mild upper respiratory tract infections (in most cases) to lower respiratory tract infections, which can be life threatening. Young children, especially those under six months of age, are at the highest risk of severe RSV-associated hospitalizations and deaths. Most RSV-associated paediatric RSV deaths (97%) occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where there is limited access to supportive medical care. More information can be found in the WHO RSV factsheet.

    Between 2016 and 2018, WHO piloted Phase 1 of an RSV surveillance project based on the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) network in 14 countries. The project expanded to include another 11 countries in 2019. Mongolia participated in Phase 1, and the preliminary data revealed RSV was the main virus detected among hospitalized children aged under 5 years. An enhanced RSV surveillance aiming to estimate four levels of disease burden, including incidence of RSV-associated hospitaizations among children aged under 2 years in Mongolia, was planned in 2024 with technical support from WHO and partners.

     The first two sessions included over 40 participants, including deputy heads of clinical management, doctors, nurses and epidemiologists from the sentinel units. During these sessions, participants were introduced to the enhanced RSV surveillance projects, the objectives, data collection, sample collection and storage, and data analyses. Participants discussed the application of extended Severe Acute Respiratory Infections case definitions and data collection forms. During the trainings, participants also provided valuable feedback on surveillance protocol revision. The subsequent four sessions were held at the respective sentinel units, targeting health-care workers and specialists who had not attended the initial training sessions, ensuring broader participation and understanding of the surveillance practices.  

    This enhanced RSV surveillance project was launched in January 2025 and will continue throughout the year. The Mongolia National Center for Communicable Diseases has been conducting intensive monitoring and supervision to the four sites since launching of the surveillance to ensure adherence to practices outlined in the surveillance protocol. The estimations of RSV-associated disease burden are expected before 2027. Results from this surveillance will lay evidence for the introduction of RSV prophylaxis products in Mongolia. WHO will continue supporting this process.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Departmental update Influenza surveillance in conflict-affected areas of Myanmar

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Myanmar’s public health surveillance system for influenza and other respiratory pathogens has been significantly disrupted due to the ongoing humanitarian emergency. Safeguarding public health has required innovative solutions. WHO Country Office in Myanmar, in collaboration with health partners and with support from the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework (PIP) Partnership Contribution (PC), has implemented an Early Warning Alert and Response System (EWARS) as a supplementary surveillance system in conflict-affected areas such as Kachin and Rakhine states. This system plays a vital role in strengthening pandemic preparedness within such a complex setting.

    Adapting surveillance to a challenging landscape

    Political instability has led to restricted access to health facilities, population displacement – including health-care workers – and a decline in disease reporting. Implemented through EWARS, sentinel surveillance for influenza-like Illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) is recognised as a crucial mechanism for enhancing the timely detection of influenza and other respiratory pathogens.  

    Respiratory syndromes are among the key health indicators monitored through the indicator-based and event-based components of this supplementary surveillance system. On average, in 2023 and 2024, more than 40 clusters of influenza-like illness were reported across the country through the system. However, no alerts of severe acute respiratory infection outbreaks were detected.

    Given the potential for seasonal influenza and other respiratory pathogens to evolve into large outbreaks, and the requirement to report non-seasonal influenza under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005), the early identification of such events is crucial to inform outbreak response efforts.

    Despite restricted operational access and communication challenges, this surveillance approach has proven to be an adaptive and resilient solution in Myanmar’s evolving health crisis. In 2024, it provided real-time alerts and facilitated the mobilisation of response teams to mitigate the impact of outbreaks and epidemics of influenza and other respiratory pathogens. This practice demonstrated how early warning systems can function effectively, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.

    The success of this initiative has been made possible through the contribution of the PIP PC, along with other financial and technical resources. It has strengthened Myanmar’s ILI and SARI surveillance capacity as part of the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS), with the National Influenza Centre (NIC) leading efforts for virus sharing, genomic sequencing, and influenza data management.

    EWARS in Myanmar: a model for global health security

    This initiative offers valuable lessons for global health security and pandemic preparedness. The success of EWARS for infectious disease surveillance in Myanmar, particularly for influenza and other respiratory pathogens, demonstrates that even in conflict settings, a well-coordinated, multi-source surveillance system can provide a critical safety net for disease detection and response. The approach aligns with WHO’s initiatives such as the PIP Framework, Global Influenza Strategy 2019–2030, the Preparedness and Resilience for Emerging Threats (PRET) initiative, and the Mosaic Respiratory Surveillance Framework  for the surveillance of respiratory viruses of epidemic and pandemic potential.

    As the WHO Country Office in Myanmar and partners continue to refine and expand EWARS, this model serves as a proof of concept for global health actors seeking to implement adaptive surveillance strategies in other crisis-affected regions. By bridging surveillance gaps and ensuring early alerts for epidemic and pandemic threats, including influenza and other respiratory pathogens, the initiative contributes to protecting both national and regional health security as envisioned in the South-East Asia Regional Strategic Roadmap for Health Security and Health System Resilience for Emergencies 2023–2027.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Departmental update Despite global influenza vaccine production remaining steady, production and distribution challenges remain

    Source: World Health Organisation

    A recent WHO-led study published in Vaccine provides updated estimates on the global production capacity of influenza vaccines, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges in pandemic preparedness. As an activity tracked in the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework Partnership Contribution High-Level Implementation Plan III (2024-2030) Monitoring and Evaluation Framework, this analysis estimates that annual seasonal influenza vaccine production remains stable, however the lack of manufacturing facilities in the African region and in low- and middle-income countries could lead to unequal access and distribution in the event of a pandemic.

    The study found that since the last survey in 2019, annual seasonal influenza vaccine production capacity has remained relatively stable at 1.53 billion doses. This could support a pandemic vaccine capacity of 4.13 billion doses in a moderate-case scenario and 8.26 billion doses in a best-case scenario. This estimate does not reflect potential mRNA production capacity as no seasonal or pandemic influenza mRNA vaccines are licensed at this time.

    The analysis documents that over 80% of seasonal and pandemic influenza vaccines rely on egg-based production, with inactivated influenza virus vaccines comprising the majority of supply. Reliance on embryonated eggs presents supply chain vulnerabilities, and access to other critical supplies may limit rapid scale-up during a pandemic. Expanding cell-based vaccines, including recombinant protein vaccine technologies, and investment in next-generation vaccines, such as mRNA-based influenza vaccines, could improve production speed and increase vaccine supply.

    The study also found that while vaccine manufacturing facilities exist in most WHO regions, the African Region remains without local production. Production capacity is concentrated in high income and upper-middle income countries. The authors recommend strengthening local vaccine manufacturing, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, to ensure equitable access.

    Seasonal influenza vaccination is important to prevent influenza and make illness less severe. It is especially important for people at high risk of influenza complications and their carers. Promoting seasonal influenza vaccination also supports global manufacturing capacity and bolsters pandemic readiness. This is because, in the event of a pandemic, manufacturers of the seasonal influenza vaccine leverage existing production processes and manufacturing facilities to create pandemic vaccines.

    As the world prepares for future influenza pandemics, addressing these production and distribution challenges is critical. WHO continues to support efforts to expand access, innovate vaccine technologies, and strengthen global preparedness.

    For more details, the full study is available in Vaccine (2025).

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 25 March 2025 Departmental update Expanding the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System to include other respiratory viruses with epidemic or pandemic potential

    Source: World Health Organisation

    WHO has published updated guidance on the implementation of an integrated surveillance system for influenza and other respiratory viruses of epidemic and pandemic potential. It includes surveillance standards and operational approaches essential for participating in an expanded global surveillance system (the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System or GISRS). The guidance aims to strengthen national sentinel surveillance capacities for respiratory viruses.

    Global influenza surveillance has been conducted through GISRS for over 70 years, since 1952. GISRS is a key WHO initiative, serving as the world’s network for monitoring influenza viruses, providing recommendations on seasonal vaccine compositions in both the northern and southern hemispheres, strengthening laboratory surveillance, and acting as a global alert mechanism for the emergence of viruses with pandemic potential. It encompasses a network of 160 laboratories in 130 countries.

    Over the past ten years GISRS capacities have been leveraged for the surveillance of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, GISRS quickly adapted to integrate the surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This guidance highlights practical considerations for the integration of SARS-CoV-2 and RSV surveillance into influenza surveillance system and at standards of GISRS surveillance for influenza. The implementation of the guidance helps countries move towards a broader respiratory disease surveillance strategy for better preparedness and response to future health emergencies.

    The document highlights the primary objectives of sentinel surveillance to monitor the epidemiology and characteristics of acute respiratory illnesses and respiratory viruses, and outlines the minimum standards required, along with any adjustments needed to support additional, secondary objectives.  Countries are recommended to adopt at least the minimum surveillance standards specific for each of the viruses to be integrated into the GISRS platform, based on national surveillance objectives. National level surveillance is very important as it provides an evidence base for regional and global public health actions. WHO will continue to support the strengthening of GISRS and making the system a robust asset for influenza and other respiratory viruses surveillance and response.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Message of the Holy Father to participants in the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors

    Source: The Holy See

    Message of the Holy Father to participants in the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, 25.03.2025
    The following is the Message sent by the Holy Father to the participants in the Plenary Assembly of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors (24 to 28 March 2025):

    Message of the Holy Father
    Dear brothers and sisters,
    I warmly send you my greetings and some directions for your valuable service. Indeed, it is like “oxygen” for local Churches and religious communities, because wherever a child or vulnerable person is safe, there you serve and honour Christ. In the daily pattern of your work – especially in the most disadvantaged areas – a prophetic truth becomes reality: abuse prevention is not a blanket to be spread over emergencies, but one of the foundations on which to build communities faithful to the Gospel. For this, I express my gratitude.
    Your work cannot be reduced to protocols to be applied, but promotes safeguards: a formation that educates, checks that prevent, listening that restores dignity. When you establish prevention policies, even in the remotest communities, you are writing a promise: that every child, every vulnerable person, will find a safe environment in the ecclesial community. This is the motor of what should be for us an integral conversion.
    Today, I ask you for three commitments:
    1.   To develop joint work with the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia.
    2.   To offer hospitality and care for the wounds of the soul to victims and survivors, in the style of the good Samaritan. To listen with the ear of the heart, so that every testimony finds not registers to be compiled, but the depths of mercy from which to be reborn.
    3.   To build alliances with entities outside the Church – civil authorities, experts, associations – so that protection may become a universal language.
    In these ten years, you have enabled a safety network to grow within the Church. Keep going! Continue to be sentinels that keep watch while the world sleeps. May the Holy Spirit, teacher of living memory, preserve us from the temptation to file away grief instead of healing it.
    Thank you for your remembrance in prayer. I too accompany you and I ask the Lord and the Blessed Virgin to sustain you, so that you may continue on your journey with dedication and hope.
    Rome, “A. Gemelli” Hospital, 20 March 2025.
    FRANCIS

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Public healthcare charging revamped

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Public accident and emergency (A&E) departments will charge patients a fee of $400 per visit starting from January 1, 2026, as part of reforms to fees aimed at enhancing the financial sustainability of the city’s public healthcare system.

    Currently, public A&E departments charge a flat rate of $180.

    Under the fee revamp, patients in critical and emergency cases will be treated for free at public A&E departments.

    At a press conference today, Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau said the reform was intended to offer more help to the underprivileged and patients with critical or severe illnesses.

    He stressed that the extra revenue will go back into public hospital services.

    The authorities will also introduce a “co-payment model” to charge patients between HK$50 and HK$500 for complicated pathology and non-urgent imaging tests.

    Moreover, they propose to cap charges at $10,000 a year for each patient, and to make it easier for those eligible to apply for a fee waiver.

    At today’s press conference, Permanent Secretary for Health Thomas Chan elaborated on the various measures.

    “I think the first one, on improving the waiver mechanism, we have relaxed the income and asset limits significantly for (patients) to qualify for medical waivers,” he said. “This is targeting the low-income families.

    “We expect that low-income families would mostly be able to be covered by the medical waiver mechanism, since we have already raised the eligibility level to (100% of) median monthly domestic household income for families of two and more.

    “And for families of one, actually we would be relaxing the income limit to 150% of the median monthly domestic household income. And also for the asset limit, we have significantly raised it to match the level for applying for public rental housing.

    “We expect that the number of low-income families or people that potentially qualify to apply for medical waivers would increase from 300,000 to 1.4 million. This is already in addition to the 600,000 CSSA (Comprehensive Social Security Assistance) recipients and also the Old Age Living Allowance recipients aged 75 or above.

    “In addition to the medical waivers, we introduced an annual spending cap.

    “If the amount of (medical) fees that you need to pay exceeds $10,000 for the whole year, anything in excess of $10,000 will be waived. This is to provide another protection for all Hong Kong citizens who may or may not be eligible to apply for medical waivers.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –