Gates to support research programme for Malaria, TB in India

New Delhi, Jul 2 (UNI) Microsoft founder Bill Gates has responded positively to Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss' request to support research programme seeking to expeditiously develop vaccination for malaria and tuberculosis.

The assurance came at a meeting with Bill Gates and members of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation during Mr Ramadoss' just concluded visit to the US.

Mr Gates appreciated the efforts made by the minister for improving health services in India. He congratulated the minister for effective implementation of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM).

In response to a query regarding the polio situation in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Dr Ramadoss elaborated the steps taken by the government for eradication of polio from the country.

Malaria and Dengue are considered the most deadly diseases during monsoon season. Children are most vulnerable water-borne monsoon-related diseases.

According to the World Health Organisation data, Dengue afflicts about 100 million patients globally every year. ICMR is open to share the patented information with interested private players. The country at present, is fighting the menace with about 6,500 dengue cases with 107 deaths as on date. Last year also there were 12,000 reported cases of Dengue. Dengue virus enters platelets through CD36 receptor protein that is located on its surface.

There is no specific treatment for Dengue. Paracetamol like Crocin can be taken to bring the fever down. People with dengue fever should rest and take plenty of fluids. They should be kept away from mosquitoes for the protection of others. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids. Some patients need transfusion to control bleeding.

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