Health

WHO estimates at least 34,300 measles and rubella cases in the first seven months of the year, up from 27,000 in 2022 (with 220 deaths). Critical issues include an overburdened health care system and low immunization rates. Need to strengthen vaccination campaign. AsiaNews sources: situation still "precarious" for a population experiencing a "painful crisis."

For residents and environmental groups, it is illegal and threatens to devastate the area's ecosystem. The facility stands near a protected reserve. Top management claims to have all the necessary permits. The company's goal at first is to export coal to Japan, South Korea and China, and then expand the market to other countries.

A study by the US Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center reveals data concerning the over 30s and records increases in all provinces, with the exception of Tibet. No official comment from the Chinese health authorities, who have always underestimated the numbers. Today the “Eris” variant of Omicron dominates with over 70% of cases.

Stress and loneliness are the main causes of the increase in cases of young and frail women abusing drugs. The phenomenon has worsened with the pandemic, in a country where social stigma towards those with addiction problems is still very strong. Yaba is the most commonly consumed substance.

An alarming number of cases reported of people dying or suffering severe visual impairment after routine eye surgeries. Some doctors say the cause is an anesthetic purchased by the ministry in India from companies on the blacklist of unreliable products. But the government in Colombo rejects the allegations.