Health News Morning Briefing: AstraZeneca pulls COVID vaccine, West Nile fever outbreak, summer pregnancy guide, fitness tips, and more

AstraZeneca, the British pharmaceutical firm, has made the decision to withdraw its COVID vaccine from circulation worldwide due to the acknowledgment of a rare and hazardous side effect associated with the vaccine. This move comes after months of scrutiny and concern surrounding the safety of the vaccine. The withdrawal request was submitted on March 5 and went into effect this Tuesday.

In response to the side effects of the vaccine, the Serum Institute of India has stated that they have been transparent about all rare to very rare side effects in their packaging since 2021. The institute emphasized their commitment to safety and transparency, reassuring the public of their efforts to disclose any potential risks associated with the vaccine.

Meanwhile, in Kerala, the State Health Department has issued an alert as cases of West Nile fever have been reported in three districts. The fever, transmitted by the Culex species of mosquitoes, has raised concerns among health authorities who are now intensifying pre-monsoon cleaning efforts to prevent further spread of the disease.

As asthma continues to be a prevalent respiratory condition, a recent study has linked it to seven other diseases, complicating treatment and exacerbating symptoms. Additionally, expecting mothers are advised to follow a summer pregnancy survival guide to ensure a comfortable experience during the hot season.

In other health news, experts recommend a balanced diet for children to promote eye health, and provide easy tips to increase walking speed for enhanced fitness benefits. Lastly, warning signs of ovarian cysts are highlighted to raise awareness about potential complications that may require medical intervention.