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🇮🇳 Indian Astronaut Returns to Space After 41 Years: Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Axiom-4 Mission to ISS

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In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...

Brucellosis: A Zoonotic Bacterial Disease

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Brucellosis: A Zoonotic Bacterial Disease

Recent Case in India

  • Recently, an eight-year-old girl from Kottakkal in Malappuram district of Kerala succumbed to Brucellosis, bringing attention to this zoonotic disease.

What is Brucellosis?

  • Type: Brucellosis is a bacterial infection caused by species of the Brucella genus.
  • Common Brucella Species:
    • Brucella melitensis (most prevalent in humans)
    • Brucella abortus (common in cattle)
    • Brucella suis (affects swine)
    • Brucella canis (affects dogs)
  • The disease primarily affects livestock but can be transmitted to humans.

Transmission of Brucellosis

  • Animal-to-Human Transmission:
    • Direct contact with infected animals (cattle, goats, sheep, swine, and dogs).
    • Consumption of contaminated dairy products such as unpasteurized milk and cheese.
    • Inhalation of airborne bacteria, especially in farms, slaughterhouses, and laboratories.
  • Human-to-Human Transmission:
    • Extremely rare but can occur through blood transfusions, sexual contact, or breastfeeding.

Symptoms of Brucellosis in Humans

  • Initial Symptoms: Fever, chills, sweating, fatigue, joint pain, and loss of appetite.
  • Chronic Symptoms: Arthritis, endocarditis (heart inflammation), neurological issues, and long-term fatigue.

Risk Factors for Brucellosis

  • Occupational Risks: Farmers, veterinarians, slaughterhouse workers, and laboratory personnel handling animals.
  • Environmental Factors: Poor animal husbandry practices and lack of hygiene in food processing.
  • Urbanization & Animal Industry Expansion: Increased human-animal interactions heighten the risk of outbreaks.

Prevention & Control Measures

  • Vaccination: Livestock vaccination programs to reduce infection rates.
  • Food Safety: Pasteurization of dairy products and proper cooking of meat.
  • Hygiene Practices: Protective gear for workers handling animals and routine disinfection in farms.
  • Early Diagnosis & Treatment: Antibiotic therapy for infected individuals to prevent complications.



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