TOI Health News Morning Briefing: FLiRT variants discovered in Kolkata, Harvard study reveals optimal timing for aspirin during heart attack, easy methods to test milk purity, heat stroke FAQs addressed, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to have wrist surgery, and more

FLiRT variants of COVID-19 have made their way to Kolkata, following their initial detection in Maharashtra. The new variant, KP.2, has been identified in thirty-six samples in West Bengal, with health officials reporting that it is replacing the JN.1 variant and is present in around 50% of sequenced samples. These findings were revealed after analysis at the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics in Kalyani.

In other health news, a new study from Harvard has found that taking aspirin within 4 hours of experiencing chest pain can significantly reduce heart attack deaths. Despite the known benefits of aspirin in reducing the risk of death from heart attacks, many individuals may not be aware of the importance of prompt administration after symptoms begin.

Meanwhile, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has recommended simple tests that can be performed at home to check the purity of milk and detect common adulterants. Ensuring the purity of milk is crucial for confirming its safety for consumption.

On a different note, actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is set to undergo wrist surgery following an injury sustained during the weekend. Despite the injury, she made an appearance at Cannes after medical consultation and recommendation, with reports indicating that her surgery has been scheduled for the week following her return.

As the heat wave intensifies in Delhi NCR, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and risks of heat stroke. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent organ damage and potential fatalities. Additionally, understanding the impact of belly fat on health and the best times to drink water can help individuals make informed choices for their well-being.