chickenpox cases rise

Chickenpox cases rise in Gaza

The United Nations has warned that chickenpox cases are increasing among displaced children in Gaza.

Around 9,300 cases have been reported over the past two weeks with more than half recorded in Khan Younis.

According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) overcrowded displacement camps piles of garbage limited access to clean water and damaged sewage systems are creating ideal conditions for infectious diseases to spread.

As a result chickenpox is becoming a serious public health concern. The UN said respiratory illnesses and skin diseases remain the most common health problems in Gaza.

Waterborne diseases are also increasing especially in the Khan Younis area due to poor sanitation and contaminated water.

Last week alone more than 18,000 new cases of skin-related illnesses including chickenpox external parasitic skin infections and impetigo were reported.

The report also said Gaza’s healthcare system has been badly damaged by the ongoing war. Many hospitals and medical facilities have been destroyed or damaged while shortages of medicines fuel and medical supplies continue to affect healthcare services.

According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, since the war began more than 73,250 Palestinians have been killed and 173,751 injured.

The ministry also said that around 90% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been damaged or completely destroyed.

Similar Posts

  • Are protein supplements safe for teens?

    Fitness and bodybuilding are becoming increasingly popular among young people. Many gym goers and athletes use protein powders and other supplements to build stronger muscles and improve their physical performance. But are these products always safe? A medical study published in the Proceedings journal of Baylor University Medical Center examined the effects of protein supplements. The researchers described protein powder as a “double edged sword” because it can be useful in some situations but may also cause problems when used incorrectly or unnecessarily. Protein is important for growing bodies The teenage years are an important stage of physical growth.  Protein helps the body build and repair muscles strengthen bones produce hormones and enzymes support the immune system and maintain overall growth. Most young people can get enough protein from a balanced diet. Foods such as milk, yogurt eggs, lentils, beans soy, fish, chicken lean meat nuts and seeds are good sources of protein. When are supplements needed? Many young people start drinking protein shakes after joining a gym playing sports or watching fitness videos on social media. Experts advise against using protein powders simply because a friend gym trainer or social media influencer recommends them. However some young people may need extra protein because of intense training dietary restrictions or certain health conditions. In such cases supplements should be used only with advice from a doctor or qualified nutrition professional. More protein does not mean more muscle Taking large amounts of protein does not automatically lead to bigger or stronger muscles.  Muscle growth also depends on regular strength training, enough calories proper sleep, rest and individual factors such as genetics. Taking more protein than the body needs can also add extra calories to the diet and may contribute to weight gain especially when physical activity is low. Some protein powders may contain extra ingredients. Some protein powders available in the market may contain added sugar artificial sweeteners, herbal ingredients extra calories or stimulant substances. The quality of supplements can also vary. Some products may not be tested as carefully as medicines which can create a risk of unwanted or undeclared ingredients. Who should be more careful? Young people with kidney disease or certain metabolic conditions should not take high protein supplements without medical advice. Anyone who is replacing regular meals with several protein shakes every day following an extremely restrictive diet or experiencing stomach problems after using protein powder should stop and seek professional advice. Protein shakes are not a replacement for food. Protein shakes cannot replace a healthy and balanced diet. Regular foods provide much more than protein. They also supply fiber healthy fats, vitamins minerals calcium iron and other nutrients that are important for healthy growth and development. Healthy habits come first for most young people, a balanced diet, regular exercise proper sleep and enough rest are the foundation of good health and fitness. Protein supplements can be helpful in specific situations but they should not be used simply because they are popular. If extra protein is needed it is best to choose the right amount and product with guidance from a qualified health professional.

  • Political Crisis in Pakistan

    By Granaz Assa A nation cannot move forward when its leaders are divided. Political stability is the backbone of every successful country, but when conflict, corruption, and power struggles become more important than public welfare, a nation begins to suffer. Unfortunately, Pakistan has faced a political crisis for many years. A political crisis is a situation in which a country’s political system becomes unstable, making it difficult for the government to run the country properly. It is mainly caused by conflicts between the government and the military, political disagreements, corruption, and weak leadership, which lead to instability, loss of public trust, and slow development in the country. Pakistan’s future depends on strong and fair leadership, but the ongoing political crisis is slowing the country down. Moreover, the people are facing hardships because of this. As a result, Pakistan is experiencing an economic slowdown, a poor international image, and low development. When leaders fight for power and control, it divides the country and creates confusion. Corruption also makes the situation worse because some leaders misuse public money for their own benefit instead of serving the citizens. If the government is weak, it cannot make good decisions or effectively help the people. A political crisis has many negative impacts on the country. It creates instability, weakens the economy, increases prices, and raises unemployment. Development projects such as schools, hospitals, and roads may be delayed. Public services can also be affected. As a result, the country’s overall progress becomes slow, and the daily lives of citizens become more difficult. In this way, a country cannot move forward. To solve the political crisis in Pakistan, some important steps are needed. First, corruption must be reduced, and leaders should work honestly for the people. Moreover, the country needs strong and fair leadership to make good decisions and guide the nation. Political parties should work peacefully and respect one another instead of engaging in conflicts. These steps can bring stability, improve the country’s economy, and build a better future for Pakistan. The political crisis is a serious problem that affects the country in many ways. The country needs to promote peace and unity among its people. Pakistan can overcome this crisis if all political parties and their leaders work together for the country instead of pursuing their personal interests. Free and fair elections, respect for the Constitution, and peaceful dialogue can help resolve political disagreements. The government must focus on the needs of the people. Citizens should also vote responsibly and support peace, unity, and democracy. By working together, the country can achieve political stability, economic growth, and a brighter future.

  • Night or Morning when to charge your phone?

    Many smartphone users wonder whether it is better to charge their phone overnight or wait until the morning. Some people plug in their phone before going to bed while others prefer charging it after they wake up.  According to technology experts both methods are generally safe but one may be better for your battery’s long term health. Modern smartphones are designed with smart charging technology that helps protect the battery. Once the battery reaches 100%, the phone automatically reduces or stops charging to prevent overcharging. This means leaving your phone plugged in overnight is usually not dangerous and it is very unlikely to cause the battery to explode or become damaged under normal conditions. However experts say that keeping the phone connected to the charger for many hours is not always the best habit. Even after the battery is full a small amount of voltage can remain which may slowly add stress to the battery over time. If this happens every night for months or years it could slightly reduce the battery’s overall lifespan. For this reason many experts recommend charging your phone in the morning whenever possible.  You can unplug it as soon as it reaches the charge level you need helping reduce unnecessary stress on the battery. Battery experts also suggest keeping your phone’s battery between 20% and 80% most of the time.  Staying within this range reduces chemical wear inside the battery and can help it last longer. If overnight charging is your only option there is no need to worry.  Most modern Android phones and iPhones include features such as Adaptive Charging or Optimized Battery Charging. These features learn your daily routine and slow down charging overnight reaching 100% only shortly before you usually unplug the phone. This helps reduce long term battery wear. Heat is another important factor that affects battery life. Using your phone for heavy gaming video editing or other demanding tasks while it is charging can cause it to become very hot. High temperatures can shorten the battery’s lifespan more quickly than charging overnight. Experts also recommend using the original charger or a trusted high quality replacement. Cheap or low quality chargers and cables may not provide stable power and could affect battery performance. It is also a good idea to avoid charging your phone under a pillow blanket or in any place where heat cannot escape easily. Another useful tip is to avoid letting the battery drop to 0% on a regular basis. Instead try to charge it when it falls to around 20%, and if possible unplug it when it reaches about 80%. In the end overnight charging is much safer than it used to be because of modern battery technology. However if you want your phone’s battery to stay healthy for as long as possible charging when needed using adaptive charging features avoiding excessive heat and keeping the battery between 20% and 80% are the best habits to follow.

  • Gym and height myth or fact?

    You may have heard people say that going to the gym or lifting weights can stop your height from growing.  Because of this belief some young people avoid exercise and weight training. But is this really true?  Let’s find out. Going to the gym has become very popular among people who want to stay fit and healthy.  Some people exercise to lose weight while others want to gain muscle and strength. Gym workouts are especially popular among young people. However several myths about weight training still create confusion. One common myth is that going to the gym at a young age can stop height growth. This belief is especially common among teenagers and young people between 18 and 20 years old. Can weightlifting stop height growth? Many people believe that lifting heavy weights at a young age can prevent the body from growing taller especially when a person carries heavy weights on their shoulders. However there is no strong scientific evidence that normal strength training stops a person’s height from increasing.  Weightlifting itself does not automatically stop growth. However young people should be careful when doing heavy workouts.  Using too much weight or exercising with the wrong technique can cause injuries.  Younger people should learn proper form and when possible exercise under the guidance of a qualified trainer. What actually affects height? A person’s height is mainly influenced by genetics. Hormones nutrition sleep and overall lifestyle can also play a role in healthy growth.if the body does not produce certain growth related hormones properly it can affect normal development. Poor nutrition can also prevent the body from getting the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. The body also contains growth plates which are areas near the ends of certain bones that help bones grow longer during childhood and adolescence.  These growth plates naturally close as a person reaches physical maturity. Therefore going to the gym does not simply stop height growth.  A healthy diet proper exercise enough sleep and safe workout techniques are more important for overall growth and fitness.

  • Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow: Discovering China through Life at Yanshan University

    By Areeba Younis The first rays of sunlight spread across the campus of Yanshan University as students quietly begin another day. Some walk purposefully toward classrooms with books in hand, while others pause beneath tree-lined pathways to enjoy the calm before lectures begin. In the distance, the modern skyline of Qinhuangdao reflects the morning light, while the quiet rhythm of campus life unfolds with remarkable order. For an international student, these seemingly ordinary moments reveal something extraordinary: a place where centuries of cultural heritage and the ambitions of a modern nation exist in harmony. When I first arrived in China from Pakistan, I expected to encounter advanced technology, modern cities, and world-class universities. Those expectations were quickly fulfilled. What I did not anticipate was how naturally tradition and innovation would coexist in everyday life. At Yanshan University, I discovered that China’s progress is not defined by replacing its past but by building upon it. Every day offers new evidence that preserving cultural identity and embracing innovation are not opposing goals—they are complementary forces shaping the country’s future. Walking across campus, I often see students reading beneath ancient-style pavilions before entering laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technology. Traditional Chinese architecture blends seamlessly with modern academic buildings, creating an environment that respects history while encouraging discovery. This balance extends beyond the university itself. Whether observing cultural festivals enthusiastically celebrated by both Chinese and international students or attending lectures on artificial intelligence, engineering, and sustainable development, I have witnessed how the values of the past continue to guide the innovations of tomorrow. The experience extends beyond the classroom. Nearby streets reflect the same remarkable balance. Local restaurants continue to prepare recipes passed down through generations, while customers pay using digital platforms within seconds. Morning markets preserve customs that have connected communities for decades, yet efficient transportation systems, smart city infrastructure, and digital services demonstrate how technological advancement has become part of everyday life. Rather than replacing tradition, innovation appears to strengthen it by making daily life more connected, accessible, and efficient. Yanshan University itself represents this philosophy. Its reputation for excellence in engineering and scientific research reflects China’s commitment to technological advancement, yet the university also places great importance on cultural exchange, community, and mutual respect. As international students, we are encouraged not only to pursue academic success but also to understand Chinese culture through festivals, volunteer activities, language learning, and interactions with local communities. These experiences transform education into something far greater than earning a degree—they become lessons in understanding different perspectives and appreciating shared human values. Living in Qinhuangdao has further deepened this understanding. The city’s coastal beauty, green parks, and historic landmarks exist alongside expanding infrastructure, modern industries, and sustainable urban development. The coexistence of natural landscapes and economic progress reflects a broader vision of development that values both environmental stewardship and long-term prosperity. As someone studying economics and business, I find this balance particularly meaningful because it demonstrates that development can be measured not only by growth but also by the quality of life it creates. Perhaps the greatest lesson I have learned is that China’s future is being built without losing sight of its cultural foundations. Respect for education, family, community, and tradition continues to shape daily life even as technology transforms industries and society. This combination has challenged many of my previous assumptions about modernization. Rather than viewing tradition and innovation as competing forces, I have come to see them as partners in creating resilient and sustainable progress. As the evening lights illuminate the campus and students gather to discuss assignments, share meals, or simply enjoy a walk with friends, Yanshan University becomes more than a place of higher learning. It becomes a meeting point where cultures, ideas, and aspirations come together. Every conversation, every shared experience, and every lesson contributes to a broader understanding that education is not confined to classrooms—it is found in the relationships we build and the perspectives we gain. For me, studying at Yanshan University has been more than an academic journey. It has been an opportunity to witness how a nation can confidently embrace the future while honoring its past. In an increasingly interconnected world, this balance offers an important lesson: true progress is achieved not by abandoning tradition, but by allowing it to inspire innovation. Here, where tradition meets tomorrow, I have found not only a university but also a deeper appreciation of China’s enduring spirit and its vision for the future.

  • Lettuce linked to U.S. parasite outbreak

    A recent outbreak of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness has spread to more parts of the United States. Health officials say the number of affected states has now increased to nine making it the largest known outbreak of its kind in the country. According to the latest update from U.S. health authorities the outbreak was first reported in Indiana Kentucky, Michigan Ohio and West Virginia. It has now also been confirmed in Illinois Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania. Investigators believe most of the cases are linked to contaminated iceberg lettuce imported from central Mexico. The lettuce is believed to have been contaminated with the Cyclospora parasite. Although cyclosporiasis is usually not life threatening experts say it can cause severe symptoms.  These include frequent watery diarrhea vomiting stomach cramps nausea and extreme tiredness. Officials say people in the newly affected states became sick around the same time as earlier patients suggesting they may have been exposed to the same shipment of contaminated lettuce. Health authorities are urging anyone who develops these symptoms after eating contaminated food to seek medical care as soon as possible. The investigation into the source of the outbreak is still ongoing.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *