Tuberculosis (TB)

Atypical Porcine Pestivirus And Congenital Tremor In Swine

Atypical porcine pestivirus (APPV) has emerged as a significant pathogen in swine, with a distinct association with congenital tremor (CT) in piglets. APPV is a highly variable RNA virus within the pestivirus group that disrupts normal neurological development, leading to tremors which can impair feeding, growth, and overall welfare. Its global distribution and genetic diversity pose considerable challenges for disease control in commercial farms. Current research continues to elucidate the virus's molecular characteristics, mechanisms of immune evasion, and the complex epidemiology of its transmission and persistence in affected herds, thus underpinning efforts to mitigate its impact on pig production.

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Recent studies have provided innovative insights into APPV infection dynamics and its clinical manifestations. One investigation employed viral metagenomics to delineate the genomic characteristics of APPV isolates from abortion cases, shedding light on the phylogenetic relationships between distinct clades and highlighting regional genetic variations [1]. A longitudinal study tracking pig cohorts from birth to market further clarified the infection dynamics, documenting differences in viral persistence and seroconversion rates between piglets with congenital tremor and those without clinical signs [2]. Additionally, genomic investigations have revealed evidence of recombination events between distinct viral clades, suggesting a mechanism that could contribute to the virus's evolution and adaptability in diverse swine populations [3]. These studies collectively enhance our understanding of APPV's pathogenesis and offer a foundation for the future development of targeted interventions and vaccines.

Technical Terms

Atypical Porcine Pestivirus (APPV): A highly variable RNA virus from the pestivirus group implicated in causing neurological disorders in piglets.

Congenital Tremor (CT): A neurological condition in newborn piglets, characterised by rhythmic tremors affecting the head and body, which can compromise feeding and growth.

Viremia: The presence of viruses in the bloodstream, indicative of systemic infection.

Medanta Hospital Holds CME On Paediatric Critical Care

DIMAPUR, JULY 30 (MExN): In a bid to enhance paediatric healthcare and improve awareness among medical professionals, Gurgaon-based Medanta Hospital, in collaboration with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Guwahati City Branch and the IAP Intensive Care Chapter, Assam, organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on paediatric critical care with a special focus on respiratory illnesses.

The CME, held recently, was led by Dr Praveen Khilnani, Chairman, Paediatric Pulmonology and Critical Care, and Dr Rajiv Uttam, Director and Head of Department, Paediatric Pulmonology and Critical Care, both from Medanta, Gurugram. The sessions aimed to address the rising concerns around paediatric viral infections and share best practices in the management of paediatric emergencies.

Dr Khilnani, speaking on the topic "Common Paediatric Emergencies: Approach to Management," highlighted the importance of the ABCDE assessment protocol—Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure—in evaluating and managing emergencies in children. He also emphasised the need to carefully consider the patient's history as shared by parents or caregivers for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Rajiv Uttam moderated a panel discussion on "Recent Surge of Viral and Atypical Pneumonia in India," where he addressed infections caused by pathogens such as mycoplasma pneumoniae, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenoviruses. He noted that children under five are especially vulnerable due to underdeveloped immune systems.

"Vaccination and proper nutrition are key to preventing complications and supporting healthy development in children," Dr Uttam said, adding that respiratory infections tend to spike during the rainy season. He also warned that sudden changes in temperature can constrict airways in children, aggravating breathing issues and increasing susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections.

Assam-based paediatricians Dr Devajit Sarma, Dr Nayanmoni Deka, and Dr Diganta Barman also participated in the panel discussion. Medanta's multi-specialty OPD services are now available in Guwahati at Sunvalley Hospital, GS Road, Mathura Nagar, Bormotoria. For more information, the public can contact 7638826770.

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