Hantavirus: Why is a dangerous infection with a mortality rate of up to 50 percent in the news now?

 Hantavirus: Why is a dangerous infection with a mortality rate of up to 50 percent in the news now?

Hantavirus is not usually transmitted from one person to another. However, in the case of the Andean species of hantavirus found in South America, a few cases of human-to-human transmission have been recorded.

Hantavirus is a very deadly ‘zoonotic’ virus that can become a global health challenge at any time. This virus, which is mainly transmitted to humans from rodents, causes serious damage to the lungs and heart if infected. After its sudden outbreak on a cruise ship operating in the Atlantic Ocean, it has become a topic of renewed discussion and concern among health experts and the general public around the world.

What is Hantavirus?

Hantavirus is a group of viruses belonging to the ‘Bunyaviridae’ family. It is named after the ‘Hantan’ river in South Korea, where it was first identified in 1978.

So far, scientists have discovered more than 20 species of it in different parts of the world, which affect human health in different ways.

Based on their effects and geographical presence, hantaviruses are mainly classified into two categories. The New World hantavirus species, found mainly in the American continent, causes ‘Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome’ (HPS) or ‘Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome’ (HCPS). This causes serious damage to the human respiratory system and heart function.

Similarly, the Old World hantavirus species, which is more active in Europe, Asia and Africa, causes ‘Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome’ (HFRS). This type of infection has a risk of direct and fatal effects on the human kidneys.

Recent Outbreak: Hantavirus Scare on Cruise Ships

The main reason why Hantavirus has recently become the focus of international media attention is the sudden outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship operating in the Atlantic Ocean. The ship, operated by the Dutch Oceanwide Expeditions company, departed Argentina on April 1. The health crisis on the ship, which is on a tour of remote islands such as Antarctica, South Georgia and Tristan da Cunha, has caught the attention of the world.

According to the latest report from the World Health Organization, seven of the 147 passengers and crew members on board the ship have been confirmed or suspected to be infected with Hantavirus. Three of the infected have died, while one is still receiving treatment in a serious condition. The other three have shown mild symptoms.

The deceased include a German citizen and a Dutch couple. According to the information received, the husband of the Dutch couple died on the ship on April 11, while the wife died in a hospital in South Africa on April 26. This tragic incident has sparked a new debate about the risk of the virus in closed environments such as cruise ships.

Source of infection and transmission

The main source of infection with Hantavirus is rodents. The virus is mainly transmitted to humans through the urine, feces or saliva of rats. When a person breathes in an area contaminated with rat feces, tiny particles of the virus mixed in the air directly enter the respiratory system. This is the most common and major route of infection. In addition, the virus can also enter the body when a rat bites, eats food contaminated with the virus, or touches a contaminated surface and then touches the eyes, nose or mouth with the same hand.

Hantavirus is not usually transmitted from one person to another. However, limited human-to-human transmission of the Andean hantavirus, a strain found in South America, has been recorded. According to the World Health Organization, such transmission is likely to occur through very close and prolonged physical contact.

The current outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship is also suspected to have involved human-to-human transmission. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s director of pandemic preparedness and response, said that the possibility of human-to-human transmission cannot be completely ruled out, as some of the infected people appeared to have had very close contact. However, she urged people not to be overly concerned, saying that the virus is not as easily airborne as flu or COVID-19 and that the risk to the general public is not currently high.

Treatment and prevention

There is no specific drug or specific vaccine developed to protect against hantavirus infection. Therefore, supportive care in hospitals remains the only option to save infected people. If the patient's condition is serious, they are placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) and oxygen therapy and ventilators are used to facilitate the respiratory process.

Since this virus is transmitted by rodents, the best way to avoid it is to avoid contact with rats. Proper arrangements should be made to prevent rats from entering your home, workplace or storage rooms.

Special care should be taken when cleaning areas that may have rat droppings. To prevent dust from flying in such areas, instead of sweeping the floor, only damp cleaning should be done using a disinfectant solution or bleach. The mandatory use of masks and gloves during such cleaning can prevent virus particles from entering the body.

In addition, Squirrels should always be kept in a secure container out of the reach of rodents. People who live or work outdoors or near forests need to pay extra attention to the cleanliness of their surroundings. In unusual circumstances, it is wise to maintain personal hygiene and social distancing, while fully following the instructions of health authorities. Since there is no cure for Hantavirus, awareness and caution are the strongest weapons in the fight against this deadly infection.

How at risk is Nepal from the Hanta virus that has swept the world?

 How at risk is Nepal from the Hanta virus that has swept the world?

Since the initial symptoms of many infectious diseases are very similar to each other, laboratory tests are helpful in distinguishing the infection.

According to the World Health Organization, 3 out of 8 people have died from Hanta virus seen on a cruise ship.

Although Hanta virus is transmitted through the feces, urine or saliva of infected rats, it has been confirmed that the 'Andean' species can be transmitted from person to person.

Nepal is at risk of Hanta virus, but even if it has not been confirmed as an outbreak, regular testing and research are necessary.

Recently, the Hanta virus seen on a cruise ship has swept the world. According to the information published by the World Health Organization a few days ago (on May 8), 3 out of 8 people have died.

That is, about 38 percent of the infected have died. This human-to-human transmission is considered very rare, but currently, dozens of cases on cruise ships have become a matter of concern and interest.

At the time of writing, the main source of infection is unknown. Information on the circumstances under which it spread from person to person is yet to be released.

Hantavirus can be transmitted to humans through contact with the feces, urine, or saliva of infected rats. Even if an infected rat does not show symptoms, it can still cause death if it infects humans.

The mortality rate of the Hantavirus strain seen in the Americas is many times higher than that of the Hantavirus strain seen in Europe and Asia, which is about 50 percent. Recently, a cruise ship has seen a mortality rate of about 38 percent. The World Health Organization has reported that the mortality rate of the Hantavirus strain seen in Europe and Asia is up to 15 percent.

Although Hantavirus is said to be transmitted only through the feces, urine, or saliva of infected rats, the ‘Andean’ strain of Hantavirus can be transmitted from person to person to some extent.

The Hantavirus strain currently circulating on cruise ships has also been confirmed by gene sequencing to be ‘Andean’. Hantavirus is mainly divided into two types based on symptoms, which also vary according to geographical location.

First, Hanta pulmonary syndrome and second, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.

Hanta pulmonary syndrome is mainly seen in the Americas, while hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and Hantavirus are seen in Europe and Asia.

Hanta pulmonary syndrome is characterized by symptoms such as fever, chills and dizziness, muscle pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, and low blood pressure. If it becomes complicated, coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, and pneumonia may occur.

These symptoms may appear within one to six weeks of infection.

Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome Hanta virus causes chills, stomach pain, headache, nausea, blurred vision, red eyes, and later complications, bleeding, and there is a risk of kidney failure.

These symptoms appear one to two weeks after infection, and sometimes up to 8 weeks. This Hanta virus is seen in Asia, especially in countries like China, Korea, Japan, and Russia. Research articles have also been published that Hanta virus has been seen in neighboring India. But there is no information that it has taken the form of a major outbreak.

Is there a risk of Hanta virus in Nepal?

Hanta virus is transmitted when it comes into contact with rat feces, urine, or saliva. Rats are seen in significant numbers in all villages and cities in Nepal.

The number of people who come to Teku Hospital for treatment of rat bites is also high. Most people with such problems do not come to the hospital. There is a lot of contact between humans and rats in Nepal too.

Hundreds of scrub typhus cases are reported in Nepal every year. The main source of scrub typhus infection is the mite found in rats. This also clearly shows that the risk of any infection that can be spread by rats in Nepal is high.

Hanta virus is no exception. In 2017, a tourist fell ill and was admitted to the ICU immediately after returning to his country after visiting Nepal. A research article was published stating that the person had been diagnosed with hanta virus. This was published in an American medical journal in 2020.

This also indicates that the risk of hanta virus is present in Nepal.

However, as in India, there is no confirmation of an outbreak in Nepal yet. Since this infection is not included in routine laboratory tests, we are unaware of the status of hanta virus in Nepal.

Blood tests of tourists infected with hanta virus in Nepal show a decrease in platelet count and an increase in liver enzymes, which the author has experienced is also widely seen in fever patients in Nepal.

However, the possibility of Hantavirus seems to be overlooked when sending for diagnostic tests for limited infections. Since a large number of fever patients are still not diagnosed in Nepal, there is a need to increase the scope of testing.

In the case of a new infection or a first-time infection, testing for that infection should also be included in routine testing. Since the initial symptoms of many infectious diseases are very similar to each other, laboratory testing is helpful in distinguishing infections. Only if the infection is diagnosed can treatment, prevention, and counseling be correct.

Currently, the World Health Organization has stated that the risk of further spread of this virus is low. However, the number of infections on a cruise ship at the same time is so high. And as the problem becomes more complicated and the mortality rate is higher, it cannot be ruled out that the contagiousness and lethality of this virus has increased compared to the past.

Nepal cannot completely ignore the risk of the virus, given the confirmed research on this virus and the frequent contact with rats, which is considered the source of the virus.

If national guidelines were developed in Nepal, prioritizing research on Hanta virus, it would be useful for health workers in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Why does Google Maps consume so much battery? This is the new power saving mode that saves battery for up to 4 hours

 Why does Google Maps consume so much battery? This is the new power saving mode that saves battery for up to 4 hours

In this era, smartphones are no longer just a means of communication for us, they have also become an integral part of our journey. Whether traveling to unfamiliar places or short distances within the city, we often depend on Google Maps.

But one of the bitter truths of using Maps is that it consumes the phone's battery at a very fast rate. Using Maps while going on a long journey or when there is no charging facility is like pushing the phone to the brink of death.

To solve this serious problem, Google has introduced a new power saving mode in its navigation service. As claimed, this feature can increase the battery life of smartphones by up to four hours.

But as attractive as this feature looks, some of the conditions or limitations that come with it are equally challenging. Today, we are discussing in detail about this new feature of Google Maps, how it works and the impact it has on the user.

Why does Google Maps consume so much battery?

There are many technical reasons behind Google Maps consuming battery. The first and main reason is the constant GPS tracking. Every second, the phone has to constantly communicate with satellites to determine your geographical location. This never lets the phone's processor rest.

The second reason is real-time data streaming. Maps doesn't just show the route, it also downloads real-time road speeds, accident information, and traffic congestion details based on data from millions of other drivers. Using machine learning, it constantly calculates the estimated time of arrival (ETA) to your destination and alternative routes.

The third and most visible reason is the bright screen. In daylight, the phone's screen needs to be run at full brightness to see the road clearly. Full-color maps, 3D buildings, and constantly changing scenes put a lot of strain on both the phone's processor and display. All these factors together can make even a phone with a large battery die before it can be fully charged.

New Power Saving Mode

This new mode recently introduced by Google is specifically aimed at users who are on long-distance trips and do not have the option of charging their phones. This feature minimizes unnecessary and energy-consuming visuals without removing basic information needed for navigation.

Technically speaking, this mode uses the phone's Always On Display technology. When you turn on this mode and press the phone's power button while navigation is active, the phone's screen turns into a monochrome, i.e. black and white interface, instead of turning off completely. This saves a lot of battery, especially on phones with OLED displays. Because the phone's pixels do not have to light up to display black.

Limited to the Pixel 10 series

One downside for now is that this feature is not available to all Android users. Google has limited this feature to its new models Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL and Pixel 10 Pro Fold for now. These phones use Google's new Tensor G-5 chipset. Which can handle such complex tasks in a way that consumes less energy.

Although this feature has been rolling out since last year, it has not yet reached other older Pixel models or phones from other brands like Samsung and Xiaomi. However, Google is expected to gradually make it widespread.

How to activate this mode?

If you have a Pixel 10 series phone, you will have to adjust this feature from the internal settings of Google Maps. To do this, first open the Google Maps app.

Tap on your profile picture in the upper right corner. Now select the Settings option and go to the Navigation settings.

You will see a toggle button for Power Saving Mode within the Driving options there, turn it on.

Once this setting is turned on, you just have to press the power button when you start your journey. After doing this, the main navigation information will start appearing on your phone's lock screen.

Effects of turning on power saving mode

While this mode is said to save battery, it may not always be useful for everyone. Google has removed many important features of Maps in this mode to save battery. Normally, Maps shows red if there is traffic jam, yellow if there is moderate traffic, and green if there is clear traffic.

However, this color-coded information is not available in power saving mode. You will not get visual alerts about accidents, construction work, or sudden jams on the road.

Similarly, this mode removes 3D buildings, detailed street names, and complex map layers. Only a simple black and white line appears on the screen and an indication of where your next turn is.

Where is the gas station in the middle of a trip? Where is the nearest restaurant or coffee shop? Such details are not visible in this mode. If you want to eat or fill up on gas along the way, you'll have to turn this feature off and return to the normal map.

Many drivers prefer to keep their phones in a horizontal position on the dashboard of their car. However, this power saving mode only works in portrait mode. This makes it difficult for those using the landscape mount. This can be inconvenient for some.

Surprisingly, this feature only works when you are driving. This mode does not work if you are walking, cycling or on public transport. While pedestrians may need more battery life.

In what situations does it work?

This mode seems to be designed by Google as an emergency tool rather than a default setting. Imagine, you are on a long road trip and your car's mobile charger suddenly breaks down.

Your phone has only 10 percent charge left and the destination is still far away. In such a situation, this mode can keep your phone alive for an additional 4 hours. It helps you reach your destination without getting lost. But it does not provide other features on the road.

So, using this mode on short daily trips or when there is a phone charging facility does not make much sense. It keeps you away from the real road conditions, which can sometimes be risky from a safety point of view.

Low libido on the rise, is there a way to increase it?

 Low libido on the rise, is there a way to increase it?

Alan Reeves used to perform on stage in the 90s and also appeared in the movie Spice World.

Prescriptions for testosterone replacement therapy in the UK increased by 135 percent from 2021 to 2024.

Testosterone therapy has restored libido in some men, but there are also concerns about its side effects and profiteering.

In the 90s, Alan Reeves regularly performed on stage. As a member of the group ‘The Dreamboys’, he would take off his clothes in front of thousands of people. Due to his increasing demand, he and his friends later appeared in the Spice Girls movie ‘Spice World.’

Reeves, who was 24 at the time, said, ‘I was the poster boy for pin-up fame.’ As Reeves turned 30, he found himself in a different situation. His moods were bad and his sex drive had almost disappeared.

He said, “Nothing felt right to me.”

“My lack of sexual desire had a negative impact on my long-term relationships,” says Reeves, now 52. Reeves, who works as a fitness and lifestyle coach in London, started testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and it has helped restore his libido.

“I’ve gone from a grumbling old man to a young man again,” he says. “It’s an amazing feeling.”

Sexual desire is steadily declining

Women are also turning to testosterone. Blogger Rachel Mason, 37, says the hormone has been “amazing” for her energy levels, concentration and libido. She recounts her experience after menopause.

There has been a huge increase in testosterone prescriptions. The Care Quality Commission has compiled figures from the NHS Business Authority, which show a 135 per cent increase in its prescriptions between 2021 and 2024.

The increase comes at a time when ‘sex drive’ is seen to be declining across the UK. The National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (NatSAL) asks more than 10,000 people about this every decade.

In 1990, people aged 16 to 44 said they had sex an average of five times a month. By 2000 this had fallen to four times and by 2010 to three times.

The next set of results is due later this year, and researchers say the downward trend is continuing. However, they do not point to any one reason for the decline.

Against this backdrop, a debate is growing rapidly. Can testosterone really improve libido, or is it just a profit-making hype? The frequency of sex in the UK is falling. The National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles asks about 10,000 people about this every decade.

Low libido

According to study author Alan Reeves, the experience of low libido is one example of a trend that is becoming more common. “We’ve seen a decline in all age groups in the last few years,” says study director Soezig Clifton. “There are fewer couples living together now than in the 1990s, which could help explain the decline in sexual desire. But when we look specifically at that group (cohabiting couples), there’s also a decline,” she says.

In fact, the fastest decline in sexual frequency has been among older couples or couples who live together.

“It’s hard to say exactly why libido is declining,” says Clifton. “We don’t have any data yet that can tell us with any certainty that libido is not as high as it used to be,” she says. “There have been a number of studies that have tried to understand why. These studies point to the digital world as a big factor, making it harder to turn off screens, and there are so many other options to spend time with.”

General practitioner and sex therapist Dr Ben Davies says our stress levels are generally much higher than they were 30 years ago. This is also a reason, he says. “There’s a lot going on in people’s lives. Obviously there’s technology, but there’s also an increase in stress, depression and loneliness. All of these things contribute to a decrease in libido,” says Dr Ben Davies.

Professor Geoffrey Hackett, a consultant urologist and member of the British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM), says that testosterone levels in men are definitely falling.

According to him, the rise in obesity, type 2 diabetes and an increasingly inactive lifestyle all contribute to low testosterone levels. And declining testosterone levels may be one reason for our lack of libido.

Over the past 20 years, studies have measured hormone levels in men, which have shown that testosterone levels have decreased. But Hackett emphasizes that this graph is very subtle.

Low testosterone increases the likelihood of low libido, but that does not mean that every man with low testosterone has a low libido. Despite this complexity, subway stations, bus stops and social media feeds are now filled with ads like, “Low libido? Tired? Time to get a testosterone test!”

So, can testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) really be a cure for low libido?

Testosterone ‘gave me my life back’

Melissa Green has been taking testosterone for about a year. In his words, it gave him "the zest for life." ’ Not only did it bring her back, but it also saved her marriage. Melissa, 43, had been suffering from a low libido that had taken a toll on her relationship.

Her doctor had already prescribed her hormone replacement therapy, which consisted of estrogen and progesterone, due to early menopause symptoms, but Green says, “the doctor was not prepared to test her testosterone levels. They said she didn’t need the extra hormones.”

Women’s bodies produce low levels of this hormone, and according to NHS guidelines, women can only be given testosterone if they have ‘hypoactive sexual desire disorder’. That is, their sex drive is very low or almost non-existent. It can affect women of any age, but it peaks during menopause.

Eventually, Green went to a private clinic, had a blood test, and was told her levels were low. After taking the test report to her doctor, she was given some testosterone from the NHS.

‘It’s given me my life back. I feel like I’m in my 20s again,’ she says.

While some people are enthusiastic about the effects of testosterone on sex drive, others say it has some unpleasant side effects.

Cheryl O’Malley took testosterone for a year, she says, and while it may have helped restore some of the energy lost during the menopause, it also increased her libido and made her feel very angry.

‘I was feeling very horny. I wanted to have sex with my husband, but there were times when you felt like it wasn’t right, it wasn’t me. I felt like everything was out of my control.

Rachel Mason says, “When she posts about TRT, she sees, ‘Many women are very scared to start testosterone, they worry that they’ll look like a man, they’ll grow facial hair, or they’ll lose their identity.’

Mason has also developed hair growth on her arms. But that’s nothing compared to the benefits she gets from the hormone. In addition to body hair growth, TRT can have many other side effects.

In women, excessive hair growth, dandruff, and weight gain can occur. These can be resolved when the dose is reduced or stopped.

In men, side effects can include weight gain, prolonged erections, male-pattern hair loss, and mood swings. It can also reduce sperm production, which can affect fertility. There are treatments available that can help, but medical advice is recommended.

Money-making pot

Some NHS GPs and specialists say private clinics are making a profit by selling testosterone replacement therapy as a quick fix for a complex problem.

NHS consultant in sexual and reproductive health Dr Paula Briggs says it is a way of making money and people are paying huge sums for something they don’t need. “It’s getting out of hand,” she says.

What do you mean, private clinics?

They say they are improving people’s lives by providing a service that the NHS is failing to provide. Jeff Foster, medical director of the multi-million pound clinic Boy, which specialises in men’s health, and an NHS GP, says the private sector is filling a gap that the NHS is failing to provide.

Michael Cox has been providing TRT through his company Balance My Hormones since 2016. He says he has seen a “tremendous” increase in demand for it in recent years.

Some of his patients had been tested on the NHS, but were turned away because their levels were not low. They then went into the private sector. “Even if they are slightly above the NHS limit, TRT can help,” says Cox.

The proportion of people who benefit is small

What constitutes a healthy testosterone level in men depends on which organisation you ask and which studies you read. According to the BSSM guidelines, men with levels below 12 nmol/L should consider TRT, especially if they have symptoms of ‘hypogonadism’, a condition in which the testicles are not producing enough hormones.

NHS guidance can vary by region. But levels below 6 to 8 nmol/L can be considered low testosterone.

In women, testosterone levels start to fall between the ages of 20 and 40 and stabilise at menopause. Low levels are normal, but the question is how much this affects sex drive and overall health.

Tests are available for women but it is difficult to get an accurate reading because the doses needed are so low. There is no licensed treatment for women on the NHS. Dr Briggs is wary of the hype and hype surrounding TRT. . She says ‘Many patients come in complaining of a lack of sexual desire. They say they have done a study, which usually means they have seen someone posting about life-changing effects on social media. ‘Even if it works for a celebrity, it doesn’t work for everyone.’

She has a flood of patients asking for testosterone tests in her area. Some take a prescription and then return after a few months because the effects have diminished. The clinical evidence suggests that TRT is only effective in women who have gone through menopause and have a low libido.

‘The advertising from private clinics has exaggerated everything,’ says Briggs. 

This therapy is not a miracle cure

Cheryl O’Malley has stopped taking testosterone. The intense anger and hypersexuality that came with the treatment have now subsided, and her libido has returned to a comfortable level.

“It’s been a huge relief for me to get off it,” she says. There are many factors that can cause low libido, and testosterone is not the only solution. But Alan Reeves has been on TRT for seven years and his life has improved dramatically.

“My libido has returned, and at first I wanted to have sex for 10 nights straight,” he says. “Now I’m calm and in a better mental and physical state.”

According to her, it’s not a miracle drug, and TRT is meaningless without lifestyle changes. “It’s like putting a Ferrari engine in a junk car,” she says.

What is sodium? Both too little and too much are harmful

 What is sodium? Both too little and too much are harmful

To control sodium, try to consume less than 2 grams of salt per day, which is about a teaspoon.

What is sodium? Both too little and too much are harmful

Sodium is a part of salt and is necessary for the normal functioning of the body's cells, nerves, muscles, and heart.

Consuming more than 2 grams of sodium per day can cause high blood pressure and long-term heart problems.

The salt we eat daily is not only related to the taste of our food, but also to the balance of the body, heart health, and quality of life. Both conditions of sodium deficiency and excess can cause serious health problems.

A conversation with cardiologist Dr. Rajendra Koju on what sodium is, why the body needs it, how much is safe, and what risks arise when it is too much:

What is sodium and why is it needed by the body?

Sodium is the scientific name. In simple terms, it is a part of salt. It is a mineral element. We eat it every day and it is one of the most important minerals for our body.

Without sodium, the body's cells, nerves, muscles and heart cannot function normally. It is essential for water balance, blood pressure, signal transmission and muscle function. But too much sodium can cause high blood pressure and heart problems, so it is important to keep it in the right amount.

What happens in the body when there is a lack of sodium?

Sodium keeps our body in good balance. It is found in the blood, muscles, cells and other parts of the body. Most of it is in the blood. Without this mineral, cells cannot function. Muscles, the heart and the brain all need it. If it is less than the required amount, it has a negative effect on the body.

Due to its deficiency, muscles cannot function, the nervous system is affected, and problems occur in the heart and other organs. This is called hyponatremia. It must be kept in the required amount. About 500 milligrams of sodium is needed every day, but it is recommended that the amount of salt should not exceed 2.3 grams. This 2.3 grams is not even equal to a teaspoon.

Is sodium only in salt or is it also found in other foods?

Foods like green vegetables, fruits, milk, yogurt, cheese, fish, meat, and eggs contain sodium even if they are not salted, but the amount is less.

It is difficult to say exactly how much salt to eat daily, but it can be estimated in these ways. The World Health Organization recommends less than 2 grams of sodium per day for adults. This is approximately the same as a teaspoon of salt.

Sodium is found not only in salt, but also in foods added to food and vegetables. The added sodium should not exceed 2.3 grams. A teaspoon can be used when measuring. For example, a teaspoon of salt is enough to cook vegetables for four people. Generally, it is okay to eat only one teaspoon of salt per day.

What happens when you have too much sodium?

Too much sodium has various negative effects on the body. Because sodium attracts water. When there is too much sodium, the body retains water, blood volume increases, and pressure in the blood vessels increases. The biggest problem caused by this is high blood pressure, which causes long-term damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, etc.

What are the symptoms of sodium deficiency or excess?

When there is a deficiency (hyponatremia) or excess (hypernatremia) of sodium, various symptoms appear in the body, which are mainly due to the effects on the brain and nervous system.

Sodium deficiency occurs when the blood sodium level is 135 milliequivalents per liter.

The main symptoms are headache, nausea or vomiting, fatigue or weakness, muscle weakness, cramps, confusion or dizziness, irritability or low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, or a person may go into a coma.

When sodium is high, ‘sodium 145 milliequivalents per liter in the blood’

When sodium is high, problems such as excessive thirst, feeling tired or lethargic, dizziness or confusion, irritability, muscle twitching or cramps, dry mouth and skin, and rapid heartbeat may occur.

You can predict these symptoms at home. If you experience problems such as headache, fatigue, confusion, cramps, or fainting, you should go to the doctor immediately. These symptoms can also be associated with other diseases. But the most accurate and reliable way is to check the amount of sodium in the blood by doing a blood test.

How does sodium affect heart health?

Excess sodium affects the heart in two main ways. First, it causes high blood pressure and puts extra pressure on the heart and blood vessels. Second, as blood volume increases, the heart has to pump more blood, which can cause the muscle in the left lower chamber of the heart (ventricle) to thicken or enlarge, a condition called ‘left ventricular hypertrophy’, or increase the risk of heart failure.

In addition, excess sodium activates the sympathetic nervous system, weakens the inner lining of blood vessels, and increases inflammation, which further damages the heart and blood vessels. The effects are more severe in people with high blood pressure or heart disease, as it increases the accumulation of excess fluid in the body, putting an additional burden on the heart.

How to control sodium?

-To control sodium, try to keep your daily intake below 2 grams, which is about 5 grams of salt per day.

-You should cook more fresh food at home. Processed/packaged foods such as chips, noodles, sausages, bread, soy sauce, etc. should be reduced as much as possible. Salt should be kept to a minimum while cooking and eating.

-You should check the sodium content of packaged foods by looking at the label and choose low-sodium options.

-You should eat more potassium-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and yogurt. This reduces the negative effects of sodium.

Prashant Tamang's death due to 'cardiac arrest', what is this problem?

Prashant Tamang's death due to 'cardiac arrest', what is this problem?

In our society, cardiac arrest and heart attack are considered as one problem. But from a medical point of view, these two are completely different problems.

Singer and actor Prashant Tamang passed away at the age of 42 due to cardiac arrest at his residence in Delhi.

Cardiac arrest is a sudden cardiac arrest that can lead to death within 3 to 5 minutes.

The number of cardiac arrests among young people in Nepal is increasing and modern lifestyle, stress, and lack of sleep are the main reasons. 

Kathmandu. There was once a very popular name in the music world - Prashant Tamang.

Tamang, a Nepalese resident of Darjeeling, is the winner of Indian Idol Season 3. In 2007, his voice and personality won the hearts of Nepali and Indian audiences.

In recent years, he seemed to be more busy with films than singing. And recently he made his debut in Bollywood. Along with singing and acting, his simple lifestyle made him an inspiration to many youngsters. But that inspiring character suddenly left this world at the age of 42. The reason was, 'cardiac arrest'.

In the last few years, not only in Nepal, but all over the world, news such as 'He fell and died while walking', 'He died while sleeping', 'Young people who were going to the gym suddenly fainted and could not survive' are increasing rapidly.

In the last few years, not only in Nepal, but all over the world, there are many news such as 'he died while walking', 'he died while sleeping', 'the young man who was exercising suddenly fainted, he could not escape', he fell while talking'.

Sudden death like this is often thought of as a heart attack, but medical science has shown that the reality is different. Doctors say that the real reason for most of these incidents is 'cardiac arrest' i.e. sudden heart failure.

What is cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops working. Senior Consultant Cardiologist Dr. According to Ranjit Kumar Sharma, the word cardiac refers to the heart and arrest means stopping or stopping. When the electrical system of the heart breaks down, the heart beats irregularly and the heart cannot pump blood, the condition is called cardiac arrest. Dr. Sharma is currently the head of cardiology department at Medicity Hospital.

How can it lead to death? In response, Dr. Sharma says, 'Heart is the most important pump of our body. It continuously carries blood with oxygen to all parts of the body. When a cardiac arrest occurs, the heart suddenly stops working. Its effects start to appear in the brain within a few seconds. The person suddenly faints, breathing stops and the supply of oxygen to the body stops. If the heart does not restart within 3 to 5 minutes, the brain is permanently damaged and death occurs.

Why does cardiac arrest happen?

Dr. According to Sharma, in most cases, heart attacks occur first. A heart attack damages the heart muscle, due to which the electrical system of the heart breaks down, leading to cardiac arrest. During a heart attack, a sudden blockage (clot) forms in the artery that supplies blood to the heart (coronary artery) or the artery is completely closed. This causes the electrical system (rhythm) of the heart to deteriorate due to insufficient blood and oxygen supply to the heart muscle.

After the rhythm is disturbed, the normal movement of the heart is disturbed, leading to dangerous conditions such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. In this condition, the heart cannot pump blood effectively, the heart only 'vibrates', not pumping. Cardiac arrest in this way Dr. Sharma says.

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Therefore, if a heart attack is left untreated, it can turn into a cardiac arrest and cause death, he says.

He says that heart rhythm disturbance is another reason for cardiac arrest. "A heart attack, electrolyte imbalance, stress, medication, or congenital causes can cause the heart to beat very fast or irregularly," Dr. Sharma says, 'When the lower part of the heart starts beating very fast or irregularly, the heart cannot pump blood. It can knock down a person in a few seconds.

Cardiomyopathy (thickening of the heart muscle)

Virat Medical College Senior Cardiologist Dr. According to Madhav Bista, cardiomyopathy is the thickening of the heart wall. It makes the heart hard and does not allow blood to fill. This problem is mostly congenital and many are not aware of it. He says that the first symptom is sudden death.

"The most dangerous aspect is that congenital heart disease may be hidden in many young people," says Dr. Bisht. Even if a person with these diseases looks healthy on the outside, the risk of cardiac arrest increases due to sudden excessive stress, alcohol consumption, or physical fatigue.

Therefore, he suggests that young people should also get their heart health checked from time to time. Dr. Bisht says that it is wise not to do too much physical exercise at once and not to insist on alcohol.

Why is cardiac arrest increasing in young people?

In the last 10-15 years, the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest among young people is increasing rapidly all over the world. Nepal is also not exempt from this. The problem of cardiac arrest in Nepal is increasing alarmingly. Sharma says. First cardiac arrest It was considered to be a disease that occurs in 60-70 years, says Dr. Sharma, but now, even in the age group of 25 to 45 years, its number is increasing alarmingly.

According to him, the biggest reason for this is the modern lifestyle. The habit of sitting in front of mobile phones, laptops and screens for a long time has made the body inactive. When physical activity decreases, weight increases, cholesterol increases, blood pressure increases and the arteries of the heart narrow. He says that this situation will later cause heart attack and cardiac arrest.

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Cardiologist Dr. Stress and lack of sleep in today's youth is another main factor leading to cardiac arrest. Bisht says. Dr. Bisht says, "The habit of using mobile phones till 2-3 o'clock in the night, sleeping irregularly, and taking pressure from work makes the electrical system of the heart unbalanced. It causes cardiac arrest, heart attack."

Smoking, alcohol, energy drinks, junk food and processed food have become part of the daily life of the youth. Dr. They cause swelling of body parts, increase blood pressure and damage of arteries. Bista says.

Studies have confirmed that such incidents can happen even after drinking too much alcohol. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, excessive alcohol can cause heart rhythm disturbances, which can make the heart beat irregularly. Alcohol lowers blood pressure and causes electrolyte imbalance, which destabilizes the heart. Sleeping drunk also increases the risk of vomiting or respiratory arrest. Those with chronic heart disease or other health problems are at greater risk.

What is the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest?

In our society, cardiac arrest and heart attack are considered as one problem. But from a medical point of view, these two problems are completely different. Sharma says.

A heart attack is a blockage of the coronary artery leading to the heart and the oxygen supply to the heart muscle is stopped. It damages a part of the heart. But a person who has a heart attack can speak, walk, reach the hospital,'' he says, 'but cardiac arrest is the stopping of the heart. In this condition, the heart cannot pump blood at all. The person immediately collapses, passes out and can die within a few minutes.

According to him, cardiac arrest is a more dangerous condition than heart attack because it has the danger of dying quickly. If CPR and defibrillator are not used immediately, chances of survival are very low. For this reason, defibrillators are placed in sports fields, gyms, airports, large department stores, malls, railway stations, offices, etc. around the world, says Sharma.

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"This device is easy to use and gives instructions by speaking," says Sharma, "If someone has a sudden cardiac arrest, anyone can use it to save their life."

What are the symptoms of cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest often comes without warning, but before that, the body has already started giving small signals. The problem is, many young people ignore those signs as fatigue or gastric. According to Dr. Sharma, chest pain, sudden increase in heart rate, difficulty in breathing, dizziness are some of its symptoms. Sometimes chest heaviness, burning sensation, pain in the back, neck or left arm can also be signs of a heart attack. Cardiac arrest can occur after a heart attack.

If a young person is experiencing the problem of frequent fainting, shortness of breath while running or climbing stairs, waking up at night while sleeping, then it should not be taken as normal, said Dr. Madhav Bista says. "That's not normal, it could be a sign of hidden heart disease," he says.

Sudden collapse, unresponsiveness, stopping breathing is a condition of cardiac arrest. At that time even a few seconds can be important. Bisht says.

Is it possible to treat patients with cardiac arrest?

Treatment of cardiac arrest is possible, but only within the first few minutes of hospital delivery. Dr. According to Ranjit Sharma, if a cardiac arrest occurs, the first treatment is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), not medicine. If the person can be rescued by giving CPR and being taken to the nearest hospital, the person can return to normal life. That is why it is called 'Basic Life Supporter'.

Dr. According to Ranjit Sharma, if a cardiac arrest occurs, the first treatment is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), not medicine. If the person can be rescued by giving CPR and being taken to the nearest hospital, the person can return to normal life. That is why it is called 'Basic Life Supporter'.

If a person suddenly collapses, CPR should be started immediately by chest compressions. He says that if the heart is not started within 3-5 minutes, the brain will be permanently destroyed and the person will die.

According to Dr. Bisht, people who survive cardiac arrest can be treated long-term with pacemaker, medicine or surgery after finding out the cause of the heart problem. He says that after such treatment, he will return to normal life if he pays attention to his lifestyle.

Why is a postmortem necessary in unnatural deaths?

 Why is a postmortem necessary in unnatural deaths?

A postmortem is an examination of a body after death and is mandatory according to law in unnatural deaths.

A postmortem helps in finding the cause of death and helps in justice and helps in protecting the future from accidents and diseases.

A postmortem is an examination of a body after death. There are many misconceptions and misconceptions about postmortem in Nepali society. Due to such misconceptions and misconceptions in our society regarding postmortem, most of the relatives of the deceased do not want to perform a postmortem on the body of their loved one after death.

During a postmortem, the body has to be cut open and the internal organs examined. For this reason, people in Nepali society do not want to perform postmortems as much as possible due to religious and cultural issues.

However, if the death occurred in an unnatural manner, then a postmortem of such a body is necessary. For example: if someone finds a body in a murder, suicide, suspicious death, accidental death, sudden death, or a dead body, the police must be notified and a postmortem must be performed according to law. Since such deaths are suspicious, the cause of death must be found for the police investigation, for which a postmortem must be performed.

History of Postmortem

When digging into the history of postmortem, we have to go back to the beginning of the 14th century. In 1302, a postmortem of a body was performed for the purpose of investigating a death in Bologna, Italy. Similarly, since centuries ago, postmortems have also been performed in France, Egypt, and China to assist the law.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, postmortems gradually developed after the traditions of China and Babylon and the advanced use of European medical science. It was born separately in medicine, which was named ‘forensic medicine’. This field includes postmortems of bodies and medico-legal cases.

This branch of medicine is also known and understood as forensic pathology or legal medicine in some countries. In Nepal, the practice of performing postmortems in suspicious deaths seems to have started since 1960. The government doctor of Kathmandu's Prison Hospital officially started postmortems for the first time at Bir Hospital.

Why do postmortems?

Section 20 of the Criminal Procedure (Code) Act 2074 BS states that in the Nepali Constitution, in case of an accident, suicide or suspicious death within the territory of Nepal, the postmortem of the deceased must be paid by the government at all costs. Postmortems are performed at the request of the legal authorities responsible for investigating accidental and unnatural deaths, and the Nepal Police has the legal authority in Nepal.

A question that comes to the police every time after a death is why do we perform postmortems? What is the benefit of performing postmortems? The dead person is already dead, so why should we cause more suffering?

First of all, what should we understand is that we perform postmortems for the living rather than for the dying person. Postmortems provide a basis for finding out the facts and the cause of death, punishing the guilty and saving the innocent.

It helps in justice. In addition, performing a postmortem reveals many details about the death, which not only helps in investigating the death but also helps in making the living aware of diseases and causes of death.

In the event of a vehicle accident, the nature of the internal injuries can be examined and the safety systems of vehicles can be made aware. Previously, it was through such research that helmets were worn while riding a motorcycle, seat belts were made mandatory while driving, and airbags were made mandatory in vehicles, as well as head rests in the event of an accident.

Reasons for performing a postmortem

1. In fatal accidents

A postmortem is mandatory in fatal accidents because it can be found out which part of the human body is most affected in an accident and which part is most affected and leads to death. This helps in knowing about the measures to be taken to avoid the accident, the methods to be adopted in treatment, and awareness. This helps in reducing the number of deaths caused by fatal accidents.

2. In case of sudden death

In case of sudden death, postmortem can be done to find out the disease that most people die from. Postmortem can be done to find out which part of the body is affected by such diseases. By finding out the nature and condition of the disease, society can be helped to save it from diseases. Similarly, this can also help to find out about hereditary diseases and alert other family members in time to save it from premature death.

3. Help the law

The police must conduct a postmortem when investigating a death. The cause of death is mentioned on the basis of the postmortem report, based on which further legal investigation is carried out.

In case of suspicious death, the family, relatives and eyewitnesses of the deceased also make various statements according to their interests. Preparing a postmortem report based on statements affects the police investigation, therefore, postmortem is also mandatory from a legal point of view to help in finding out the exact cause of death and conducting a fair investigation.

3. For scientific research

The nature of the wounds on the body may vary between a vehicle accident, a fall, and a beating, which will allow proper scientific research to examine the nature of the injuries on disputed bodies in the future and determine whether the injuries were caused by a vehicle accident, a duty-related death (beating), or a fall. There may be grounds for distinguishing between the two.

How is a postmortem performed?

A postmortem is performed in all district hospitals or large government hospitals in Nepal. After a police report, it should be performed by a forensic expert or a doctor registered with the Nepal Medical Council. During a postmortem, the body is completely naked, the outer covering is noted, and the body is completely dissected and examined.

Sometimes, pieces of various parts of the body are removed to provide additional evidence for the police to investigate and the doctor performing the postmortem to determine the cause of death. And it is also sent to the police forensic laboratory for further examination. After the postmortem, a report with the doctor's signature is submitted to the police.

Postmortem related mistakes

1. The body is not dismembered during a postmortem

During a postmortem, the body is dissected as needed, and after examining the vital organs, the body is re-stitched and handed over to the relatives in its original state.

2. The organs of the body are not removed during the postmortem

The main purpose of performing a postmortem is to find out the cause of death. Therefore, the body is dissected and examined for important organs. Then the organs are placed inside the body and sewn up and sent. In any suspicious situation, small pieces of organs can be removed for testing for poisons and other chemicals as needed. Then the organs are sewn up in their entirety. After death, no organ works for another person.

3. A postmortem cannot be done without dissecting the body

In Nepal, a postmortem cannot be done without dissecting the body. However, sometimes, since hospital reports reveal the cause of death based on CT scans and X-rays, a postmortem can be done even with minimal incisions. Therefore, the hospital report is important after death.

4. Is it known whether a person is dead or not after an autopsy?

A postmortem is basically to find out the cause of death. After the cause of death is determined, the investigation into whether the death was accidental, accidental, or suicide remains. After the doctor determines the cause of death, the police investigate based on that. The doctor who performs the autopsy does not reveal the exact cause.

But sometimes, based on the nature of the injuries on the body, the doctor can give an opinion to the court about accidental, accidental, or suicide.

Postmortem Neglected

Postmortem plays an important role in determining the cause of death and minimizing deaths due to potential disasters.

Due to the state's lack of importance in this field, the new methods introduced by medical science in this field have not yet been introduced in Nepal, which is why even today the postmortem space in government hospitals in Nepal is limited to a dark room.

In developed countries, postmortem examination rooms are equipped with postmortem X-rays and CT scans, as well as labs for DNA, drug and poison testing, to minimize the amount of dissection required during postmortems. However, ironically, in Nepal, state agencies are less knowledgeable about what constitutes a dead body and have neglected this area in every way.

What is Alpha School in America, where AI teaches instead of teachers!

 What is Alpha School in America, where AI teaches instead of teachers!

What comes to mind when you think of ‘school’? Surely, for many, classrooms from kindergarten to 12th grade, front-line teachers, and long lessons come to mind. This is how schools have been set up for centuries. But now, as AI is changing our lifestyle, the traditional way of learning and schooling has also started to take a new form.

Alpha School, located in Texas, USA, has become a global sensation due to its unique and modern way of teaching students. Instead of a teacher teaching 25-40 students at a time as per the traditional style, it is said that in this school, students are instructed individually by AI guides. It is said that the AI ​​system also analyzes their progress and provides immediate feedback, which helps them improve their weaknesses.

At Alpha School, students are said to have to study for only 2 hours a day. According to international media, after two hours of study, Alpha School students spend time on physical activity, problem-solving activities, leadership exercises, and life skills. These include activities ranging from long bike rides to creative projects and entrepreneurship training.

Another feature of Alpha School is its financial rewards system. Students are said to earn money for completing assignments, projects, or mastering skills, which they can spend on their own projects or interests, or even invest.

According to international media, Alpha School is not a school that appeared overnight or became famous. It has been operating on campuses in Texas, Florida, and California for more than a decade, and is now preparing to expand to New York City. It is said that a new Alpha campus is planned to open in Manhattan next September, with annual tuition fees ranging from $40,000 to $65,000, depending on the location.

This unique and technological teaching style demonstrated by Alpha School has shown the potential for education to take on a completely new form through innovation, not just limited to books and teachers.

Facebook is starting to shut down

 Facebook is starting to shut down

Ncell, World Link and Nepal Telecom shut down Facebook

World Link CEO Keshav Nepal informed that Facebook has been shut down as per the government's directive.

The social networking platform Facebook has started to shut down in Nepal. Internet service provider company World Link has shut down Facebook a while ago.

Now, Facebook has stopped working from World Link's IP address. World Link CEO Keshav Nepal informed that Facebook has been shut down as per the government's directive.

Internet Service Providers Association President Sudhir Parajuli said that the process has started and it will take some time for all internet providers to shut down.

'The process of shutting down social networks has moved forward as per the directive from the government. The extensions are being shut down,' he said.

In accordance with the same government directive, Nepal Telecom has also shut down social networking platforms that are operating without registration. Telecom issued a notice on Thursday, stating that it has closed the unregistered platforms as per the directives of the Nepal Telecommunications Authority.

‘The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has written to this company to deactivate the unlisted social media platforms operating in Nepal in accordance with the order of the Honorable Supreme Court, the decision of the Council of Ministers of the Government of Nepal, the decision of the ministerial meeting of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, and the Directive to regulate the use of social media, 2080, through its letter dated 2082/05/19, Ch. No. 597, and accordingly, we request you to provide information on the details of the closure of such social media platforms for the time being,’ Telecom said.

The matter of re-opening the closed platforms will be as per the directives received from the authority in the coming days.

Similarly, Ncell had stated that it has closed the social media platforms including Facebook that were operating without registration.

Earlier, the Nepal Telecommunication Authority had directed the Internet Service Providers Association to close 26 social media platforms based on the Supreme Court order, the decision of the Cabinet of the Government of Nepal on Bhadra 5, the ministerial decision of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology held today (Thursday), and the Directive on Managing the Use of Social Media, 2080.

The government had also decided to close the social media platforms Facebook, Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, Snapchat, Reddit, Discord, Pinterest, Signal, Threads, WeChat, Quora, Tumblr, Clubhouse, Mastodon, Rumble, Meebee, VK, Line, Emo, Jalo, Soul and Hamro Patro.

The government led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda had brought social media regulatory guidelines on 23 Kartik 2080, including making arrangements for social media to be registered and have a contact point in Nepal.

Immediately on 27 Kartik, the Cabinet meeting decided to ban TikTok, saying that it was spreading social hatred and violating social dignity.

In which countries is Facebook registered?

The Supreme Court has mentioned in its decision that 105 laws have been formulated in 78 countries to regulate social media. Although the models for regulating social media are different, we find that many countries have implemented the system of legally registering and establishing an office or appointing a resident representative, as in Nepal.

Talking about South Asia, social media including Facebook are already registered and operating in India. Contact persons have been appointed to hear local complaints and address them. There is no mandatory provision for the contact person to be within India. He or she must hear the complaints of users within India, regardless of where he or she lives.

Pakistan's rules also require social media companies like Facebook and Twitter to set up local offices. Similarly, Facebook has opened its liaison office in Tel Aviv, Israel.

In India, Facebook has opened its liaison offices in Gurgaon and three other states.