https://indiatodayexpress.net/c/health Health en-IN https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/2026-09-01-haryana-private-hospitals-to-suspend-ayushman-bharat-services-for-24-h-0e6357d782 https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/2026-09-01-haryana-private-hospitals-to-suspend-ayushman-bharat-services-for-24-h-0e6357d782 Private hospitals in Haryana will halt Ayushman Bharat services for 24 hours on September 1 over nearly Rs 1,200 crore in unpaid claims, the IMA Haryana has said. Tue, 01 Sep 2026 01:00:48 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/2026-08-31-imd-issues-heavy-rain-alert-for-eight-states-amid-active-monsoon-049431d9ae https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/2026-08-31-imd-issues-heavy-rain-alert-for-eight-states-amid-active-monsoon-049431d9ae The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in eight states on August 31, with active monsoon conditions expected to continue into the first week of September. Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:12:46 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-india-confirms-two-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-contacts-test-negative-a https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-india-confirms-two-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-contacts-test-negative-a India’s health ministry has confirmed two Nipah virus cases in West Bengal since December and says 196 identified contacts have been quarantined and tested, all negative so far. The government has called wider case-count claims inaccurate and says surveillance and containment steps remain active. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:17:08 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-india-says-nipah-outbreak-in-west-bengal-has-been-contained-contacts-t https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-india-says-nipah-outbreak-in-west-bengal-has-been-contained-contacts-t Indian authorities say a Nipah virus outbreak linked to two confirmed cases in West Bengal has been contained. The Health Ministry said contacts were traced, quarantined and tested, while monitoring continues as other Asian countries tighten screening for travellers arriving from India. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:11:32 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-west-bengal-steps-up-nipah-containment-contact-tracing-isolation-and-a https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-28-west-bengal-steps-up-nipah-containment-contact-tracing-isolation-and-a After Nipah virus infections were detected among healthcare workers in Barasat, West Bengal rolled out containment steps including isolation, advisories to hospitals and stepped-up surveillance. Officials urged vigilance without panic, while medical experts noted the virus’s high fatality risk and the importance of infection control. Samples and confirmations were handled through coordinated lab networks, with response teams supporting state-level containment. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:06:35 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-punjab-shuts-schools-on-27-january-after-republic-day-events-families- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-punjab-shuts-schools-on-27-january-after-republic-day-events-families- Schools across Punjab are closed on 27 January following Republic Day celebrations, according to a state directive. The announcement affects government, aided and private recognised institutions, giving students and staff a day off after the statewide events and ceremonies. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:53:34 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-trigger-surveillance-push-airports-tighten- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-trigger-surveillance-push-airports-tighten- Confirmed Nipah virus cases in West Bengal have led to heightened monitoring and quarantine of close contacts, with travel screening measures being reinforced across some airports and border points in the region. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:43:03 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-west-bengal-reports-five-nipah-cases-in-a-week-around-100-quarantined- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-west-bengal-reports-five-nipah-cases-in-a-week-around-100-quarantined- West Bengal is dealing with a Nipah virus cluster linked to Barasat in North 24 Parganas, with five cases reported within a week. Two infected healthcare workers remain in ICU care, three additional cases were admitted to an infectious diseases hospital in Beleghata, and authorities have sent around 100 people into home quarantine as contact tracing continues. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:37:28 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-contacts-quarantined-and-airport https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-27-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-contacts-quarantined-and-airport A report says West Bengal has confirmed Nipah virus cases, with close contacts quarantined and travel screening measures being reinforced at airports and border points to limit spread. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:31:02 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-union-budget-2026-27-study-urges-higher-public-healthcare-spe https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-union-budget-2026-27-study-urges-higher-public-healthcare-spe A new research paper examining decades of Indian data argues for sharper increases in public healthcare spending, warning that rising costs and uneven access are deepening inequality. The study highlights how India’s heavy dependence on out-of-pocket payments exposes poorer and rural households to financial distress and delayed treatment. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:31:23 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-new-study-urges-higher-public-healthcare-spend https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-new-study-urges-higher-public-healthcare-spend An academic study flagged rising medical costs and unequal access to treatment, urging India to increase public healthcare expenditure as the Union Budget 2026-27 approaches. The research analysed long-run drivers of healthcare spending and out-of-pocket payments and argued that higher public investment is needed to make care more equitable and affordable. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:27:28 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-study-ahead-of-budget-2026-urges-bigger-public-health-spend-as-costs-r https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-study-ahead-of-budget-2026-urges-bigger-public-health-spend-as-costs-r An academic study released ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27 calls for a major increase in public healthcare expenditure, warning that medical costs and unequal access are widening gaps. The push adds to a growing chorus that wants stronger public systems, preventive care and better funding to reduce out-of-pocket burden. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:18:25 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-fever-cases-surge-in-thiruvananthapuram-as-officials-intensify-vector- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-fever-cases-surge-in-thiruvananthapuram-as-officials-intensify-vector- Thiruvananthapuram district reported a sharp rise in fever cases in January 2026, with over 11,000 people seeking treatment, alongside confirmed dengue and leptospirosis cases, prompting tighter surveillance and public health measures. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:07:31 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-study-urges-higher-public-health-spending-to-c https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-study-urges-higher-public-health-spending-to-c An academic study released ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27 argues India should increase public healthcare expenditure, warning that rising medical costs and uneven access are deepening inequality. The research analyses long-term data and points to the need for stronger public funding to reduce household out-of-pocket burden and improve equitable access to care. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:57:31 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-budget-2026-watch-experts-flag-india-s-public-health-spend-below-2-of- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-budget-2026-watch-experts-flag-india-s-public-health-spend-below-2-of- With Union Budget 2026-27 approaching, analysts and healthcare voices are calling for higher public healthcare spending, citing disease burden, out-of-pocket costs and system pressure. Reports note India’s public health spend remains under 2% of GDP, below global and middle-income benchmarks. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:47:09 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-indore-reports-fresh-hepatitis-a-case-amid-continuing-water-safety-mea https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-indore-reports-fresh-hepatitis-a-case-amid-continuing-water-safety-mea A minor in Mhow has tested positive for Hepatitis A as authorities continue surveys and water safety steps in affected areas. The episode follows ongoing concern in and around Indore over water quality and disease risk, with officials advising residents to rely on arranged tanker water in impacted localities. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:43:29 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-study-calls-for-higher-public-health-spending- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-study-calls-for-higher-public-health-spending- An academic study released ahead of Budget 2026-27 argues India should raise public healthcare expenditure to counter rising medical costs and unequal access. The research analyses long-term drivers of health spending and highlights pressures on household out-of-pocket payments. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:34:33 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-study-urges-higher-public-health-spending-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-as-i https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-study-urges-higher-public-health-spending-ahead-of-budget-2026-27-as-i Ahead of the Union Budget 2026-27, an academic study has argued for a significant increase in public healthcare expenditure, warning that rising medical costs and uneven access are deepening inequality. The researchers say stronger public investment is essential to improve health infrastructure and expand affordable, universal access in a rapidly changing economy. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:25:08 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-lancet-commission-urges-citizen-centred-reforms-to-make-india-a-strong https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-lancet-commission-urges-citizen-centred-reforms-to-make-india-a-strong A Lancet Commission report launched in New Delhi outlines a roadmap for a rights-based, citizen-centred health system in India, recommending stronger public care, integrated services and better financing to achieve universal health coverage ambitions. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:17:06 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-india-s-zero-measles-rubella-elimination-campaign-aims-for-2026-target https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-india-s-zero-measles-rubella-elimination-campaign-aims-for-2026-target India’s National Zero Measles–Rubella Elimination campaign (2025–26) was launched to accelerate the goal of eliminating measles and rubella by 2026. The programme stresses full two-dose vaccination under the Universal Immunisation Programme and calls for stronger surveillance and community outreach to prevent outbreaks and close last-mile gaps. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:09:57 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-indore-s-water-safety-panic-returns-after-retired-teacher-s-death-offi https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-26-indore-s-water-safety-panic-returns-after-retired-teacher-s-death-offi Tension rose again in Indore’s Bhagirathpura area after the death of a 75-year-old retired teacher, with family members and residents alleging a connection to contaminated water. Health authorities disputed the claim, pointing to underlying medical conditions and stating available documents did not confirm typical diarrhoea symptoms. The episode has intensified public anger and political sparring as some residents remain hospitalised. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:05:48 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-who-linked-report-flags-india-among-countries-hit-by-rising-measles-ca https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-who-linked-report-flags-india-among-countries-hit-by-rising-measles-ca A report citing WHO provisional data says India was among the top countries reporting measles outbreaks in 2025, while India’s health ministry has pushed a Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign with emphasis on surveillance and last-mile coverage. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 16:04:30 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-suspected-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-prompt-centre-to-deploy-national- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-suspected-nipah-cases-in-west-bengal-prompt-centre-to-deploy-national- Two suspected Nipah virus cases reported in West Bengal triggered an immediate public-health response, with the Centre deploying a joint national team to support containment, surveillance and laboratory work alongside state authorities. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:58:54 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-in-two-nurses-near-kolkata-surve https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-in-two-nurses-near-kolkata-surve Indian health authorities have confirmed Nipah virus infections in two nurses at a private hospital near Kolkata, triggering heightened surveillance, contact tracing and quarantine protocols. Officials are investigating a suspected index case linked to a patient who died after severe respiratory symptoms. With Nipah known for high fatality and no approved cure or vaccine, public health teams have moved quickly to test contacts and monitor potential spillover sources. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:49:28 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-two-nipah-cases-reported-in-west-bengal-health-teams-step-up-testing-t https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-two-nipah-cases-reported-in-west-bengal-health-teams-step-up-testing-t Officials reported two confirmed Nipah virus cases in Kolkata, West Bengal, involving healthcare workers. Authorities deployed joint response teams, expanded testing of contacts and enforced quarantine measures, as investigations continue into the source of infection. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:38:15 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-contacts-quarantined-as-health-t https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-contacts-quarantined-as-health-t Indian authorities have confirmed Nipah virus infections in West Bengal, with health agencies tracing contacts, expanding testing and enforcing quarantine protocols while urging precautions, given the disease’s high risk and lack of a proven cure or vaccine. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:30:58 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-air-improves-to-moderate-after-rain-and-winds-but-colder-days-an https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-air-improves-to-moderate-after-rain-and-winds-but-colder-days-an Delhi saw a sharp, weather-driven drop in pollution levels with AQI touching 192—its lowest in 102 days—after rain and gusty winds. Forecasts, however, suggest a return to ‘poor’ and even ‘very poor’ categories around Republic Day amid colder conditions and another western disturbance. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:20:03 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-among-nurses-quarantine-and-surv https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-among-nurses-quarantine-and-surv Indian health authorities have confirmed Nipah virus infections among two nurses at a private hospital near Kolkata, prompting quarantine, testing and surveillance measures. Officials are tracing contacts linked to a suspected index patient and conducting wider checks as Nipah—known for high fatality—has no specific cure or vaccine. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 15:09:53 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-two-suspected-nipah-cases-centre-deploys-joint-out https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-two-suspected-nipah-cases-centre-deploys-joint-out Two suspected Nipah virus cases have been detected in West Bengal, prompting the Centre to deploy a National Joint Outbreak Response Team to support containment and public health measures. The suspected cases were identified at an ICMR VRDL in AIIMS Kalyani, with central agencies sharing guidelines and supporting state surveillance, contact tracing and testing. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:59:57 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-imd-warns-of-intense-western-disturbance-from-26-28-jan-snow-hail-and- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-imd-warns-of-intense-western-disturbance-from-26-28-jan-snow-hail-and- The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for a fresh western disturbance expected to affect parts of north, northwest and central India from 26 January 2026, with heavy snowfall at isolated places, hailstorms, thunderstorms, gusty winds and fog-related disruptions. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:50:55 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-among-nurses-surveillance-and-qu https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-among-nurses-surveillance-and-qu Health authorities in West Bengal have confirmed Nipah virus infections in two nurses at a private hospital near Kolkata, triggering contact tracing, quarantine measures and expanded testing. Officials are probing the suspected index patient and monitoring high-risk contacts as the state intensifies surveillance for the high-fatality zoonotic virus. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:40:19 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-who-supported-teams-monitor-pulse-polio-booths-in-meghalaya-to-strengt https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-who-supported-teams-monitor-pulse-polio-booths-in-meghalaya-to-strengt WHO-supported teams in Meghalaya visited vaccination booths during National Immunisation Day activities to monitor protocol compliance and strengthen service quality. The monitoring focused on standard practices such as correct markings, vaccine handling and cold-chain maintenance, and improved community engagement. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:34:01 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-nipah-alert-multiple-cases-reported-containment-steps-inte https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-nipah-alert-multiple-cases-reported-containment-steps-inte West Bengal’s health system is on alert after reported Nipah cases among healthcare workers, with critical patients under treatment and contact tracing, quarantine and testing measures underway. Authorities are treating the situation as high-risk given Nipah’s history of severe disease. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:25:05 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-karnataka-expands-ab-ark-cover-for-guillain-barr-syndrome-treatment-ad https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-karnataka-expands-ab-ark-cover-for-guillain-barr-syndrome-treatment-ad Karnataka has expanded its Ayushman Bharat Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme to include IVIG therapy for Guillain‑Barré Syndrome, a rare autoimmune condition that can cause severe weakness and paralysis. The move aims to reduce out-of-pocket costs, though doctors note caps may not suit every patient’s dose needs. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:13:59 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-gets-brief-pollution-relief-as-rain-and-winds-push-aqi-to-a-3-mo https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-gets-brief-pollution-relief-as-rain-and-winds-push-aqi-to-a-3-mo Delhi’s air quality improved sharply after rain and gusty winds, with the city recording its cleanest air in about three months. However, forecasting systems warn the AQI could deteriorate again soon as winds slow and fog returns—keeping health concerns for vulnerable groups in focus. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:07:56 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-s-air-improves-sharply-after-rain-and-winds-aqi-forecast-to-wors https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-delhi-s-air-improves-sharply-after-rain-and-winds-aqi-forecast-to-wors Delhi’s AQI fell to a 102-day low after rain and gusty winds, but forecasts warned it could slip back to poor and very poor categories around January 26–27, alongside colder nights and possible rain from a western disturbance. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:03:32 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-imd-warns-of-heavy-snow-hailstorms-and-widespread-rain-from-january-26 https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-imd-warns-of-heavy-snow-hailstorms-and-widespread-rain-from-january-26 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for a fresh western disturbance likely to bring heavy snowfall, hailstorms, thunderstorms and gusty winds across parts of North and Central India from January 26, with peak impact expected around January 27. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:58:18 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-rajasthan-launches-prerna-2-0-month-long-campaign-to-boost-maternal-an https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-rajasthan-launches-prerna-2-0-month-long-campaign-to-boost-maternal-an ICDS in Jaipur has launched ‘Prerna 2.0’ from 19 January to 19 February 2026 to strengthen maternal and child nutrition outcomes across Rajasthan, with a focus on registration, Anganwadi-based service delivery and improved monitoring for pregnant women, young children and adolescent girls. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:54:04 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-nipah-cases-two-healthcare-workers-test-positive-containme https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-nipah-cases-two-healthcare-workers-test-positive-containme West Bengal has reported two Nipah virus cases involving healthcare workers, triggering intensified containment measures and monitoring. Authorities have activated outbreak response protocols, including tracing contacts and strengthening infection-control steps, as Nipah is known for severe illness and high risk when transmission occurs. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:50:49 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-nipah-alert-centre-sends-outbreak-response-team-after-suspected-cases- https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-nipah-alert-centre-sends-outbreak-response-team-after-suspected-cases- After suspected Nipah virus cases were detected in West Bengal in January 2026, the Centre deployed a national joint outbreak response team and activated emergency coordination, as states strengthened surveillance and contact tracing. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:37:15 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-temperature-swings-trigger-cough-and-cold-surge-in-kolkata-doctors-fla https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-temperature-swings-trigger-cough-and-cold-surge-in-kolkata-doctors-fla Hospitals in Kolkata are seeing a spike in cough-and-cold cases as winter temperatures fluctuate, with doctors attributing the rise to a mix of respiratory viruses and seasonal pollution effects. Clinicians have advised symptom-based care and cautioned against unnecessary antibiotic use unless prescribed. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:28:08 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-officials-step-up-testing-quaran https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-west-bengal-reports-nipah-virus-cases-officials-step-up-testing-quaran Indian health authorities confirmed Nipah virus cases linked to a hospital near Kolkata, with contact tracing, quarantine and wider surveillance initiated amid concerns over the virus’s high fatality rate. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 12:34:36 GMT https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-icmr-says-hmpv-is-already-circulating-in-india-no-unusual-national-sur https://indiatodayexpress.net/a/health-2026-01-25-icmr-says-hmpv-is-already-circulating-in-india-no-unusual-national-sur With concern rising around Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), ICMR has said the virus is already in circulation globally, including India. The agency said current surveillance data does not indicate an unusual nationwide spike in influenza-like illness or severe respiratory illness. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 08:11:03 GMT