SciTech Express

National Safety Day 2025: Science & Technology Advancements for a Safer Future Introduction to National Safety Day 2025 National Safety Day 2025 is an annual observance in India, celebrated on March 4th to promote awareness about safety measures, accident prevention, and occupational health. This significant event marks the beginning of National Safety Week 2025 , a week-long campaign dedicated to fostering a culture of safety in workplaces, industries, and public spaces. With the theme of "Building a Safer Future: Innovation and Awareness in Safety" , this year's National Safety Week 2025 theme aims to emphasize technological advancements and proactive safety measures in different sectors. Why is National Safety Day Important? The observance of National Safety Day 2025 holds immense importance for: ✔ Creating Awareness – Spreading knowledge about safety regulations and best practices. ✔ Preventing Accidents – Reducing workplace hazards and ensuring comp...

Bird Flu (Avian Influenza): A Global Concern   Recent Development: A new genotype (D1.1) of Bird Flu virus has been detected in dairy cattle in the US . Previously, all detections in cattle were of genotype B3.13 . This highlights the evolving nature of the Avian Influenza virus and its ability to infect new hosts. About Bird Flu (Avian Influenza) 1. Causative Agent: Bird Flu is caused by Avian Influenza Type A virus . The virus is divided into subtypes based on two surface proteins : Hemagglutinin (HA) – Helps the virus attach to host cells. Neuraminidase (NA) – Helps the virus spread between cells. 2. Transmission and Carriers: Migratory wild birds , especially waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans), act as natural reservoirs . The virus spreads through direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments . 3. Human Infections: Some subtypes, like H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 , have infected humans. Transmission occurs through contact with infected birds, poultry products, or ...

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. Symp...

Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS) – A Step Towards Healthier Living Introduction: Excessive sodium consumption is a major public health concern as it significantly increases the risk hypertension (high blood pressure) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) . In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) , through its Department of Nutrition and Food Safety (NFS) , has issued new guidelines promoting the use of Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS) as an effective way to reduce sodium intake while maintaining food palatability. Composition of LSSS: Unlike regular salt, which is composed primarily of sodium chloride (NaCl) , LSSS contain a reduced amount of sodium and often substitute it with other minerals. The key components include: Potassium Chloride (KCl): The most common substitute for sodium chloride, providing a salty taste while reducing sodium levels. Magnesium Salts: Some variants contain magnesium compounds to enhance taste and nutritional benefits. Other Additives: Som...