WHO launches mRNA bird flu vaccine project

WHO launches mRNA bird flu vaccine project

The World Health Organization and its partners launched a bid on Monday to speed up the development and distribution of H5N1 avian influenza, also known as bird flu vaccines in low and middle-income countries. The mRNA Technology Transfer Programme, collaboratively developed by WHO and MPP, was launched in July 2021 to enhance the capacity of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for the development and production of mRNA-based vaccines. As a […]

July 30, 2024 18

Health / Medical

Busting breast health myths

Dr Justus Apffelstaedt, specialist surgeon Does it really hurt to have a mammogram and are drinkers really at a higher risk of developing breast cancer? With so many myths and preconceived ideas on the internet and in our minds, it is often difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction. Breast, thyroid, and parathyroid specialists Dr Justus Apffelstaedt and Dr Fatima Hoosain help to debunk some common misconceptions about […]

July 30, 2024 82

Health / Medical

93 killed after landslides strike India tea estates

By Aishwarya Kumar Landslides in India triggered by pounding monsoon rains struck tea plantations and killed at least 93 people today, with at least 250 others rescued from mud and debris, officials said. The southern coastal state of Kerala has been battered by torrential downpours, with blocked roads into the disaster area in Wayanad district complicating relief efforts. "93 dead bodies have been found so […]

July 30, 2024 16

Africa

Africa leads in reducing new HIV infections – report

By Bonface Orucho, bird story agency Africa's prevention measures in the fight against new HIV infections are paying off, according to a new report by UN AIDS. The report, "The Urgency of Now: AIDS at a Crossroads," unveiled on July 22 at the 25th International AIDS Conference in Munich, highlights that sub-Saharan Africa has achieved the steepest reduction in HIV cases compared to 2010. “Four […]

July 29, 2024 39

Health / Medical

South African teens are struggling: Western Cape study shows 33% have symptoms of depression

By Mirriam Mkhize, University of Cape Town; Claire van der Westhuizen, University of Cape Town, and Katherine Sorsdahl, University of Cape Town In South Africa, little research has been done on depression and anxiety among younger adolescents, those between the ages of 10 and 14. Existing studies have primarily targeted older adolescents and those living with HIV. The age range of 10- to 14-year-olds […]

July 26, 2024 19

Health / Medical

Top Cancers Highlighted as Bank Windhoek’s Cancer Apple Project Marks 24 Years

Breast, cervical and prostate cncer form part of the top 3 locally as Bank Windhoek’s Cancer Apple Project marks its 24th anniversary. This year’s theme inspired by the brand campaign is called ‘Is it possible to impact a life’. Here's Rolf Hansen Chief Executive of the Cancer Association of Namibia.

July 25, 2024 35

Health / Medical

One person dies from AIDS-related illness every minute

UNAIDS says the AIDS pandemic can be ended by 2030 if more is done to fund initiatives and protect human rights. In a new report released this week, the organisation says if world leaders stick to their commitments the public health threat can be ended. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York. Meanwhile, new HIV infections are rising in three regions, namely the Middle East and […]

July 24, 2024 35

Health / Medical

UNAIDS says the pandemic can be ended by 2030

UNAIDS says the AIDS pandemic can be ended by 2030 if more is done to fund initiatives and protect human rights. In a new report released this week, the organisation says if world leaders stick to their commitments the public health threat can be ended. Jody Jacobs reports from the United Nations in New York.

July 24, 2024 42

Health / Medical

24% of Namibian children under 5 stunted

According to the World Food Programme global hunger index, 24 percent of Namibian children under the age of 5 are stunted, and 6 percent are experiencing wasting. Between January and June 2024, over 190,000 (191,353) children were screened for malnutrition, with 10,151 receiving treatment. The Hardap Region reported the highest number of treated cases, with 2,891 children, followed by Ohangwena (1,747), Khomas (967), and Erongo (939). In a report, the WFP said […]

July 23, 2024 47