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Kids

Why Are Kids More Aggressive Today? Experts Reveal the Causes and Solutions

by Dr. Shruthi R December 24, 2024

written by Dr. Shruthi R

Why Are Kids Becoming Aggressive These Days? Experts Decode the Reasons Behind Anger, Irritability, and Violence

Childhood is often seen as a time of innocence and joy, yet more and more parents and teachers are noticing increased aggression, anger, and irritability in children today. From outbursts at home to conflicts at school, these behavioral issues are becoming alarmingly common. What’s causing this rise in aggression among kids, and how can it be addressed? Experts are increasingly focusing on the societal, psychological, and environmental factors fueling these behaviors. In this comprehensive discussion, we’ll explore the reasons behind this troubling trend, its long-term consequences, and how parents and educators can intervene to nurture emotional well-being in children.

What Is Aggression in Kids?

Aggression in children refers to behaviors that are hostile, destructive, or harmful toward others or themselves. It can manifest in various forms, such as:

Physical Aggression: Hitting, kicking, or biting.
Verbal Aggression: Yelling, name-calling, or making threats.
Emotional Aggression: Tantrums, defiance, or excessive irritability.

While occasional aggressive behavior is normal during certain developmental stages, persistent or severe aggression is a sign of deeper issues that need attention.

The Alarming Rise of Aggression in Kids

Aggressive behavior in children is not a new phenomenon, but its prevalence and intensity have significantly increased in recent years. Experts are raising concerns about the societal pressures and changing dynamics that might be contributing to this trend.

Possible Causes of Aggression in Children

Several factors may explain why kids are becoming more aggressive today. These include psychological, societal, and environmental influences.

1. Exposure to Technology and Violent Content

Screen Addiction: Excessive use of screens, including smartphones, tablets, and gaming devices, has been linked to behavioral issues in children.
Violent Media: Video games, movies, and online videos that glorify violence can desensitize children and normalize aggressive behavior.
Reduced Social Interaction: Over-reliance on technology often limits face-to-face interactions, hindering the development of social skills and empathy.

2. Family Dynamics

Parental Stress: Financial difficulties, work-related stress, or marital conflicts at home can create a tense environment for children, making them more prone to aggression.
Lack of Parental Supervision: In families where parents are overburdened or absent, children may lack the guidance needed to manage emotions effectively.
Inconsistent Discipline: Erratic or overly harsh discipline can confuse children and lead to rebellious or aggressive behavior.

3. Mental Health Issues

Emotional Disorders: Conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD can contribute to irritability and anger in children.
Trauma: Experiences of abuse, neglect, or bullying can deeply affect a child’s emotional well-being and lead to aggressive tendencies.
Low Self-Esteem: Children who struggle academically or socially may act out aggressively to mask feelings of inadequacy.

4. Societal Pressures

Academic Stress: The pressure to excel in school and extracurricular activities can overwhelm children, leading to frustration and aggression.
Competition Among Peers: Social comparison, amplified by social media, can contribute to feelings of jealousy or inadequacy.
Cultural Shifts: Rapid societal changes and exposure to different value systems may create confusion and conflict in young minds.

5. Diet and Lifestyle Factors

Poor Nutrition: Diets high in sugar and processed foods can negatively impact mood and behavior.
Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles limit opportunities for children to release pent-up energy, contributing to irritability.
Sleep Deprivation: Inadequate sleep can impair emotional regulation, making children more prone to outbursts.

Signs of Aggression in Kids

Aggression can take many forms, and recognizing the signs early is crucial. Some common indicators include:

Frequent temper tantrums or meltdowns.
Defiance or refusal to follow instructions.
Bullying behavior toward peers or siblings.
Destructive acts, such as breaking toys or damaging property.
Difficulty expressing emotions in a healthy manner.

If these behaviors persist or escalate, it may be time to seek professional help.

The Impact of Aggression on Children’s Lives

Unchecked aggression can have far-reaching consequences, affecting a child’s emotional, social, and academic development.

1. Emotional Impact

Difficulty forming healthy relationships.
Increased risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

2. Social Challenges

Rejection by peers due to bullying or unkind behavior.
Struggles with teamwork and cooperation in group settings.

3. Academic Consequences

Lower academic performance due to disruptive behavior.
Frequent conflicts with teachers or classmates.

Expert-Recommended Strategies to Address Aggression

Addressing aggression in children requires a multi-pronged approach that includes parental involvement, professional support, and societal change.

1. Encourage Open Communication

Create a safe space for children to express their feelings without fear of judgment.
Teach them to identify and articulate their emotions, using phrases like “I feel angry because…”

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Establish consistent rules and consequences for behavior.
Ensure that discipline is fair, firm, and delivered with empathy.

3. Promote Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Encourage regular physical activity to help release excess energy and stress.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule to ensure adequate rest.

4. Limit Screen Time

Monitor and regulate the type of content children consume.
Set daily limits for screen use and encourage offline activities like reading or outdoor play.

5. Foster Empathy and Social Skills

Teach children to recognize and respect the feelings of others.
Encourage activities that promote teamwork and cooperation, such as sports or group projects.

6. Seek Professional Support

Consult a child psychologist or counselor if aggression persists despite interventions.
Therapy can help children address underlying emotional issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Role of Schools in Managing Aggression

Educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping a child’s behavior. Schools can implement the following measures:

Anti-bullying programs to create a safe environment for all students.
Conflict resolution workshops to teach problem-solving skills.
Regular mental health assessments to identify children in need of support.

How Parents Can Model Positive Behavior

Children often imitate the behavior of adults around them. By modeling healthy emotional responses, parents can set an example for their kids.

Practice patience and understanding in challenging situations.
Show how to resolve conflicts peacefully.
Acknowledge and validate your child’s emotions, even during difficult moments.

Understanding and addressing the root causes of aggression in children is a shared responsibility that involves parents, educators, and society at large. By fostering open communication, providing a supportive environment, and teaching essential life skills, we can help children navigate their emotions and build healthier relationships.

December 24, 2024 0 comment

Kids

“Video: Boost Your Child’s Immunity This Winter with These Milk Additions for Better Health”

by Dr. Shruthi R November 9, 2024

written by Dr. Shruthi R

Winter Diet for Kids: In this video, we discuss special ingredients to add to milk for keeping kids healthy during winter. These additions to milk help boost immunity, which can prevent seasonal illnesses and keep kids strong. Learn which foods can be added to milk to ensure kids stay safe and healthy throughout winter.

Winter Diet for Kids: Essential Ingredients to Boost Immunity and Keep Kids Healthy

As winter rolls in, the cold weather brings along a variety of seasonal illnesses like the flu, cold, and other viral infections, making it essential to take extra care of children’s health during this time. One of the most effective ways to support your child’s immune system and overall health during the winter months is by incorporating a nutritious and immune-boosting diet. Milk, a staple in many children’s diets, is an excellent base to add healthy ingredients that can help build strong immunity and protect them from the harsh effects of the cold weather. In this video, we will discuss some special ingredients to add to milk that can make your child’s winter diet not only nutritious but also protect them from common illnesses. Learn about these ingredients and how they can keep your little ones safe, strong, and healthy all winter long.

Why a Winter Diet is Important for Kids

Winter months bring along a host of challenges for parents, especially when it comes to keeping their kids healthy. During this season, children are more susceptible to colds, flu, and other respiratory infections due to the cold air, reduced exposure to sunlight, and often being indoors more frequently. Their immune systems are under greater strain, which is why it’s crucial to ensure they are getting the right nutrients to stay strong.

A well-balanced winter diet provides the right combination of vitamins, minerals, and immune-boosting properties that can help children ward off illnesses, maintain energy levels, and recover quickly if they do fall ill. One of the best ways to incorporate these nutrients is by adding them to the milk they already consume. Milk is rich in essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which play a vital role in maintaining strong bones and overall health. But with the right additions, milk can be transformed into a superfood that enhances immunity, fights infections, and supports children’s growth during the winter.

Top Ingredients to Add to Milk for Boosting Immunity in Kids

Here are some powerful ingredients to add to your child’s milk, turning it into a nourishing and immunity-boosting drink for winter:

1. Turmeric (Haldi)

Turmeric, or haldi, is a golden-yellow spice that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties. It contains an active compound called curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. Adding a pinch of turmeric to milk, often called “golden milk,” is a time-tested remedy that helps fight infections, reduce inflammation, and support overall health.

Turmeric is especially beneficial for boosting the immune system, improving digestion, and promoting healthy skin. It can help children fight off seasonal illnesses like colds and flu and may even aid in faster recovery if they do get sick. Additionally, turmeric helps strengthen bones and joints, which is especially important during the cold winter months when kids are less likely to be playing outside.

How to Add: Mix a pinch of turmeric powder in warm milk. You can also add a small amount of honey for taste, which will enhance the soothing properties of the milk.

2. Ginger (Adrak)

Ginger is another powerful ingredient that can be added to milk to keep your child healthy during winter. Known for its warming properties, ginger helps improve circulation, fight infections, and reduce inflammation in the body. It’s especially effective for treating cold and flu symptoms, easing nausea, and improving digestion.

In winter, ginger helps maintain a warm body temperature, preventing chills and boosting energy levels. It also helps reduce the severity of coughs and colds and can be a great natural remedy when your child starts showing signs of a sore throat or cough.

How to Add: Grate a small piece of fresh ginger and simmer it in milk for a few minutes before straining and serving. This will infuse the milk with all the goodness of ginger.

3. Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It is rich in antioxidants, antibacterial properties, and essential vitamins that can help boost immunity and fight infections. In particular, honey has soothing properties that are ideal for treating sore throats, coughs, and respiratory issues that are common in winter.

In addition to its immune-boosting properties, honey also helps in digestion and provides a natural energy boost. Its antibacterial qualities make it an effective remedy for fighting off bacteria, which helps reduce the risk of infections during the winter months.

How to Add: Stir a teaspoon of honey into warm milk. Avoid adding honey to hot milk, as high temperatures can destroy some of its beneficial properties.

4. Saffron (Kesar)

Saffron is another potent ingredient to add to your child’s milk during winter. Known for its vibrant color and unique flavor, saffron contains powerful antioxidants that support overall health and immunity. Saffron is known to enhance the immune system, improve circulation, and aid in digestion.

This luxurious spice has been used in traditional medicine to promote healthy skin, improve mood, and support cognitive functions. Saffron is also a great remedy for reducing the effects of stress and promoting relaxation, which is especially important in a stressful winter season.

How to Add: Soak a few strands of saffron in warm milk for about 10 minutes. Then, stir it well to allow the color and nutrients to infuse into the milk before serving.

5. Almonds (Badam)

Almonds are rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and other nutrients that help improve immunity, strengthen bones, and promote healthy skin. Almonds are particularly useful for children during the winter months because they help maintain energy levels, prevent skin dryness, and support the body’s defense system against infections.

Almonds are also known for their ability to enhance brain function, memory, and concentration, making them a great addition to a child’s diet for both physical and mental development.

How to Add: Soak a few almonds overnight, peel them the next morning, and grind them into a paste. Add this paste to warm milk for an enriched drink full of healthy fats and nutrients.

6. Cinnamon (Dalchini)

Cinnamon is a warm, aromatic spice that has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and fight infections. Cinnamon also promotes better circulation, which is particularly important during the colder months to ensure that blood flows easily throughout the body.

In addition to boosting immunity, cinnamon aids in digestion, helps stabilize blood sugar levels, and has a calming effect on the body.

How to Add: Add a small piece of cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon to warm milk. Let it steep for a few minutes, then strain and serve.

7. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, a powerful adaptogenic herb, has been used in traditional medicine for its ability to strengthen the body’s defense mechanisms and improve overall health. This herb is known for its stress-relieving properties and its ability to support the immune system, which makes it particularly useful during winter when stress and illnesses tend to peak.

Ashwagandha also helps boost energy levels, improve sleep quality, and enhance the body’s ability to combat infections.

How to Add: You can find ashwagandha powder at health food stores. Add a small spoonful of ashwagandha powder to warm milk, stir well, and serve.

8. Dates (Khajoor)

Dates are a great source of natural sugars, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron. They help provide energy and support overall health. Dates are particularly beneficial during the winter months because they help combat fatigue, maintain blood sugar levels, and support digestion.

The natural sweetness of dates also makes them a great addition to milk, offering a nutritious alternative to processed sugars.

How to Add: Blend a few pitted dates into milk and heat it up to create a naturally sweetened, nutrient-rich drink.

Conclusion: A Healthy Winter Diet for Kids

Winter can be a challenging time for children’s health, but with the right diet and precautions, you can help keep your little ones healthy, energetic, and strong throughout the season. Adding these immune-boosting ingredients to their milk is an easy, effective way to enhance their diet and provide essential nutrients that support their overall well-being.

By incorporating ingredients like turmeric, ginger, honey, saffron, almonds, cinnamon, ashwagandha, and dates into their milk, you can ensure that your child’s body is well-equipped to fight off seasonal illnesses and maintain their health all winter long. These ingredients not only boost immunity but also support other aspects of health, such as digestion, circulation, and bone strength.

Making these small yet significant additions to your child’s diet can go a long way in promoting a healthy, happy winter. So, start adding these superfoods to their milk today and help them stay safe, strong, and healthy all season long!

November 9, 2024 0 comment

Watch This Eye-Opening Video on Rising Diabetes Rates in Kids: Causes, Risks, and Prevention Tips

by Dr. Shruthi R September 19, 2024

written by Dr. Shruthi R

Diabetes In Kids: Nowadays, the problem of diabetes is increasing rapidly in children, which can become a serious threat to their health. In this video, know the reasons due to which the risk of diabetes is increasing in children, such as unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, obesity, and gene related factors.

Diabetes in Children: Understanding the Rising Risk and Its Implications

Diabetes, a chronic condition that affects how the body processes glucose, is becoming increasingly prevalent among children. While diabetes was once considered primarily an adult disease, its growing incidence in younger populations is a concerning trend. This article delves into the various factors contributing to the rise in diabetes among children, including unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, obesity, and genetic predispositions. Understanding these factors is crucial for prevention, early detection, and effective management of diabetes in children.

The Types of Diabetes Affecting Children

1. Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in little or no insulin production, making it impossible for the body to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. Although type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, it is often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. Children with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.

Key Characteristics of Type 1 Diabetes:

Autoimmune Nature: The condition is caused by an autoimmune response that destroys insulin-producing cells.
Onset: Typically diagnosed in children and adolescents, though it can develop at any age.
Management: Requires daily insulin injections or use of an insulin pump and careful monitoring of blood glucose levels.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, once rare in children, is becoming increasingly common due to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. In type 2 diabetes, the body either becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to maintain normal glucose levels. This form of diabetes is often linked to lifestyle factors and is largely preventable.

Key Characteristics of Type 2 Diabetes:

Insulin Resistance: The body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, requiring higher amounts of insulin to regulate blood sugar.
Onset: Often develops in older children and adolescents, particularly those who are overweight or obese.
Management: Can often be managed with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, but may also require medication or insulin therapy.

The Increasing Incidence of Diabetes in Children

The prevalence of diabetes among children has been rising steadily in recent years. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), an estimated 1.1 million children and adolescents under the age of 20 are living with diabetes worldwide. This increase is particularly concerning for type 2 diabetes, which was once rare in children but is now becoming more common due to modern lifestyle changes.

Key Statistics:

Global Increase: The number of children with diabetes has risen dramatically over the past few decades, reflecting broader trends in obesity and lifestyle changes.
Regional Variations: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes varies by region, with higher rates observed in developed countries and areas undergoing rapid economic development.

Factors Contributing to the Rise in Diabetes Among Children

1. Unhealthy Eating Habits

Diet plays a critical role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Modern dietary patterns, characterized by high consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and fast food, contribute significantly to the rising incidence of diabetes in children.

Impact of Unhealthy Eating:

High Sugar Intake: Consuming large amounts of sugary beverages and snacks leads to frequent spikes in blood sugar levels and increased insulin resistance.
Processed Foods: Foods high in refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and low in nutritional value contribute to weight gain and metabolic problems.
Low Nutrient Density: A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can disrupt normal blood sugar regulation and contribute to the development of diabetes.

Examples of Unhealthy Foods:

Sugary Drinks: Sodas, energy drinks, and fruit juices are high in added sugars and contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance.
Fast Food: High-calorie fast foods often contain unhealthy fats and sodium, which can lead to obesity and metabolic disturbances.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes in children. In today’s digital age, children are increasingly sedentary, spending extended periods in front of screens and engaging in less physical activity.

Consequences of Sedentary Lifestyles:

Decreased Insulin Sensitivity: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. A lack of exercise can lead to insulin resistance and weight gain.
Obesity: Sedentary behavior contributes to obesity, which is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

Recommendations for Increasing Activity:

Daily Exercise: Children should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day.
Active Hobbies: Encouraging activities such as sports, dancing, and outdoor play can help reduce sedentary behavior.

3. Obesity

Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for type 2 diabetes in children. Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can lead to insulin resistance and metabolic issues.

Obesity and Diabetes Link:

Insulin Resistance: Excess fat, especially abdominal fat, contributes to insulin resistance, making it harder for the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
Metabolic Syndrome: Obesity often accompanies other components of metabolic syndrome, including high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of diabetes.

Prevalence and Impact:

Rising Rates: Childhood obesity rates have increased dramatically in recent decades, contributing to the rise in type 2 diabetes.
Long-Term Risks: Obesity in childhood often persists into adulthood, leading to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and other health complications later in life.

4. Genetic Factors

Genetics play a role in the risk of developing diabetes. Children with a family history of diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, are at an increased risk of developing the condition themselves.

Genetic Influences:

Family History: Children with parents or siblings who have type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop the condition due to inherited genetic factors.
Ethnic Predisposition: Certain ethnic groups, such as African American, Hispanic/Latino American, Native American, and Asian American populations, have a higher genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetes in children is crucial for early diagnosis and management. While type 1 diabetes often presents with sudden and severe symptoms, type 2 diabetes may develop more gradually and can be harder to detect.

Common Symptoms of Diabetes:

Increased Thirst and Urination: Elevated blood sugar levels lead to increased thirst and frequent urination as the body tries to expel excess glucose.
Fatigue: Children with diabetes may feel unusually tired due to inefficient glucose metabolism.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Type 1 diabetes can cause rapid weight loss despite normal or increased food intake.
Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the lenses of the eyes, leading to temporary vision problems.

Diagnosis:

Blood Tests: Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure blood glucose levels, including fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, and hemoglobin A1c levels.
Medical Evaluation: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms, family history, and risk factors to make an accurate diagnosis.

Management and Prevention

1. Managing Diabetes

For children diagnosed with diabetes, effective management is essential to maintain health and prevent complications. Management strategies vary depending on the type of diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Management:

Insulin Therapy: Children with type 1 diabetes require insulin injections or an insulin pump to regulate blood sugar levels.
Blood Glucose Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to adjust insulin doses and maintain optimal control.

Type 2 Diabetes Management:

Lifestyle Changes: Management often begins with lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet and increased physical activity.
Medications: Some children with type 2 diabetes may require oral medications or insulin therapy if lifestyle changes are insufficient.

2. Preventing Diabetes

Preventing type 2 diabetes in children involves addressing lifestyle factors and promoting healthy habits.

Healthy Eating:

Balanced Diet: Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods and sugary snacks.
Portion Control: Teach children to recognize appropriate portion sizes and make healthier food choices.

Regular Physical Activity:

Daily Exercise: Promote at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day to support overall health and glucose metabolism.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce sedentary behaviors by encouraging active play and reducing screen time.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight:

Weight Management: Support children in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.
Positive Body Image: Encourage a positive body image and focus on health rather than appearance.

The increasing prevalence of diabetes among children is a pressing public health issue that requires a comprehensive approach to prevention, early detection, and management. By addressing unhealthy eating habits, promoting physical activity, managing obesity, and understanding genetic factors, parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of diabetes in children. Early intervention, education, and support are essential to ensure that children with diabetes can lead healthy, active lives and avoid the long-term complications associated with the condition.

September 19, 2024 0 comment

Kids Uncategorized

Scientists identify drug to treat serious Covid complications in kids

by Medically Speaking Team February 26, 2022

written by Medically Speaking Team

In comparison to Moderna, people who received the Janssen vaccination had a greater risk of developing a serious breakthrough infection.

The researchers looked at data from roughly 50,000 hospital admissions between April and November of 2021 for the study.

MIS-C leads to high fevers and a hyperinflammatory response that can affect multiple organs, including the heart, brain and gastrointestinal organs, they said.

A previous study by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) in the US showed that in cases of MIS-C, the SARS-CoV-2 virus can remain in the gut for weeks to months after the infection.

When SARS-CoV-2 is present in the gut, an impaired mucosal barrier can allow small viral particles, such as the spike protein, to enter the bloodstream, leading to infections such as COVID-19 and in rare cases, the hyperinflammatory response that triggers MIS-C.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus uses the spike protein to enter and infect the cells.

“Working collaboratively, we have been able to demonstrate that viral particles that remain in the gut long after COVID-19 infection can instigate MIS-C,” said David Walt, senior author of the study published in the journal Critical Care Explorations.

“Building on this important discovery, we wanted to see if treatment with a drug developed for another condition — celiac disease — could help resolve symptoms in children experiencing MIS-C, said Walt.

The team administered the drug larazotide acetate to four extremely ill children ages 3 to 17 being treated for MIS-C.

The study shows that larazotide decreases the release of zonulin, a molecule that can lead to increased gut permeability and an impaired mucosal barrier, a layer of thick mucus in the gut.

The researchers compared the clinical outcomes of the four children who received larazotide plus steroids and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) to 22 children who received only steroids and IVIG.

The children who received four daily oral doses of larazotide acetate had a significantly faster resolution of gastrointestinal symptoms and a slightly shorter hospital stay, they said.

The study also found that serum levels of the spike protein dropped much more quickly in children treated with larazotide, clearing from the blood within one day, versus 10 days for children not treated with the drug.

“These findings suggest that larazotide may provide a safe and beneficial adjuvant therapy for the treatment of MIS-C,” the researchers said.

“Expansion of clinical trials is urgently needed to ascertain the clinical impact of larazotide on MIS-C,” they added.

February 26, 2022 0 comment

Uncategorized

Covid vaccination for children depends on ‘supply’, cannot give ‘particular timeline’: VK Paul

by Medically Speaking Team October 18, 2021

written by Medically Speaking Team

According to Niti Aayog member (health) and India’s Covid-19 Task Force chairman VK Paul, the Centre would decide on the deployment of the Covid-19 vaccination for children under the age of 18 based on overall “scientific rationale” and supply.

Notably, Zydus Cadila’s vaccine, ZyCoV-D, has been licenced for use in the nation as the first indigenously produced, needle-free Covid-19 vaccine for persons aged 12 and up. The Subject Expert Committee (SEC) also recommended Bharat Biotech’s Covaxin for emergency usage in children earlier this week. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has yet to approve Covaxin, citing a need for more technical advice.

India is presently giving three vaccinations to qualified recipients aged 18 and up: Covishield, Covaxin, and Russia’s Sputnik V. Johnson & Johnson and Moderna Inc have gained approval and are discussing legal indemnification.

In an interview with PTI, Paul said that although a “particular timeline” on when Covid-19 vaccination will commence for children in India cannot be provided currently, it will soon be rolled out. He further stated that the preparation for the “incorporation of Zydus Cadila’s vaccine into the vaccination programme is proceeding well,” and that training is already being held, keeping in mind the advice by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) for the “best use of the vaccine is explored.”

“A pragmatic decision (on vaccination of children and adolescents) can be taken (only) by balancing the supply and the potential eligibility,” he was quoted as saying by PTI.

Paul further cautioned against the loosening of guard against Covid-19, saying it will not be fair to say that the “worst is over.” “It is reassuring that the number of Covid-19 cases are now on the decline and the second wave is now subsiding but…we have seen in other nations, there have been more than two waves,” he told PTI.

He stressed that with the festive season underway, which invites potential gatherings across the nation, this is a “critical phase” as the virus can spread again. Dr Paul said that it has been noticed even in countries where the Covid-19 vaccination coverage is good that the “escalation in the pandemic can happen and has happened.”

The Niti Aayog official stated that states and Union territories (UTs), which are lagging behind in inoculating jabs to their adult population, must pull up their sleeves as there is “no dearth, no inadequacy of vaccine supply” now.

He also refuted claims that India will run out of ample syringes for administering Covid-19 vaccines if every adult person has to be vaccinated by the end of the year. “There is no problem of syringe availability, we are in a good shape,” he was quoted as saying by PTI.

October 18, 2021 0 comment