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A flesh-eating bacterium responsible for Buruli Ulcer is rapidly spreading across Victoria, Australia, prompting health officials to issue a warning that "everyone" is at risk. The Victorian health department has reported a rise in cases this year, with 344 notifications by mid-December, compared to previous years. Lesions from the infection, which can cause severe disfigurement, often begin as painless lumps resembling insect bites. Chief health officer Professor Ben Cowie noted that the disease is no longer confined to coastal areas, having been detected in regions including Mornington Peninsula, East Gippsland, and parts of inner Melbourne. While the disease is not transmissible between people, Cowie highlighted the roles of possums and mosquitoes in its spread, with evidence of the bacterium found in possum excrement. The summer months are expected to bring an increased risk of infections, particularly among individuals aged 60 and older. 
Published: Dec 21 2024, 2 pmeznews.inGermany's government has accused US billionaire Elon Musk of attempting to influence the upcoming February elections by endorsing the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, a claim rejected by major political factions. Musk, known for his support of Donald Trump, stated on his social media platform X that "only the AfD can save Germany," further solidifying his stance in an opinion piece for a German newspaper. Government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann emphasized that elections are determined by German voters and criticized Musk’s interference, noting that parts of the AfD have been deemed "extremist" by domestic security. Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of the Social Democrats, likened Musk's actions to those of Vladimir Putin, suggesting both seek to undermine democracy in Germany. With elections set for February 23, the AfD currently polls at 19%, trailing behind the CDU/CSU at 32%, while the SPD faces a potential record low at 16%.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 8 pmeznews.inAn Argentine judge has allowed charges to proceed against five individuals, including the manager of former One Direction singer Liam Payne, following his tragic death in October when he fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. The ruling, announced by the prosecutor's office, indicates that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Payne's death will continue, with legal implications for hotel staff present at the time. The case has drawn significant attention, reflecting the ongoing scrutiny of safety protocols in hospitality settings. The developments come as the music world mourns the loss of the popular singer, known for his contributions to the boy band and his subsequent solo career. Further legal proceedings are expected as the investigation unfolds.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 9 pmeznews.inGreece is taking significant steps to combat internet addiction among minors by launching a national strategy aimed at regulating excessive social media use. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis inaugurated a dedicated website providing parental control resources, emphasizing the societal imperative of protecting children's well-being. He expressed skepticism about a complete ban on social media, suggesting instead a focus on designing apps suitable for younger users. The strategy will be implemented in three phases, starting with a parental control platform rolled out on Monday, followed by a "kids wallet" system to enhance age verification within three months. Additionally, Greece plans to collaborate with European partners and tech companies to introduce legislative measures for better online content regulation. Mitsotakis also proposed defining an age for "digital adulthood," tentatively set at 15, as part of a broader initiative to foster healthier technology interactions among youth, aligning Greece with international efforts in this domain.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 7 pmeznews.inIndia's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a significant surge in the country's defence exports, which have skyrocketed from Rs 2,000 crore a decade ago to a record Rs 21,000 crore. Speaking at the Army War College in Mhow Cantonment, Singh set an ambitious target for annual defence exports to exceed Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. He highlighted the evolving nature of global warfare, emphasizing the importance of mastering advanced technologies such as AI, cyber warfare, and space operations. Singh also underscored the need for military personnel to be well-trained to counter unconventional threats. He reiterated the government's vision of "aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) as essential for enhancing national security and global standing. Additionally, he noted that a strong economy and security system are interdependent, each bolstering the other. Singh's visit included a briefing on the Army War College's role in training military leaders and fostering international military cooperation.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 7 pmeznews.inChinese President Xi Jinping expressed his "deep sadness" over the death of former US President Jimmy Carter at the age of 100, highlighting Carter's significant role in establishing diplomatic relations between the US and China. In a condolence message to President Joe Biden, Xi noted that Carter had facilitated friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two nations. Carter, who normalized relations with China in 1979, was instrumental during a pivotal time when China's economic reforms were initiated by Deng Xiaoping. Although he did not visit China during his presidency, Carter's connections with the country spanned decades, including visits as a naval officer in 1949 and post-presidency trips in the 1980s and 1990s. Xi emphasized the importance of US-China relations, stating that China is committed to fostering a stable and healthy partnership moving forward.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 5 pmeznews.inUS President Joe Biden has unveiled an additional $2.5 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, marking a final surge in military aid as he approaches the end of his presidency. This package includes $1.25 billion in military aid from U.S. stockpiles and $1.22 billion through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which procures military equipment from defense partners. Biden emphasized the importance of this assistance for bolstering Ukraine's capabilities amid an ongoing conflict that has seen Russia deploying North Korean troops, resulting in significant casualties. As the war nears its three-year anniversary, Washington's total aid commitment to Ukraine has reached $175 billion. However, the future of such support remains uncertain with President-elect Donald Trump, who has advocated for reduced U.S. involvement, set to take office on January 20. Biden's administration is currently delivering critical military supplies to aid Ukraine as winter approaches.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 5 pmeznews.inChinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, is a significant celebration in Chinese culture, marking a time for family reunions and the commencement of new beginnings. The lunar calendar determines its date, which falls on the second new moon after the winter solstice, typically between January 21 and February 20. In 2025, the festivities will begin on January 29 and last for 15 days, ushering in the 'Year of the Wood Snake.' This year, which continues until February 16, 2026, symbolizes transformation, growth, and introspection, with the snake representing intuition and strategy. The Wood element enhances adaptability and creativity, making it a favorable time for personal and professional development. While Snakes, Roosters, Oxen, Dragons, and Monkeys are poised for success, Pigs and Tigers may encounter challenges, necessitating caution and strategic planning. Overall, the Year of the Wood Snake emphasizes the importance of introspection and nurturing relationships.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 5 pmeznews.inFormer U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, is being remembered globally for his profound contributions to peace and humanitarian efforts. President Joe Biden described him as an extraordinary leader and a dear friend to many, while Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted his deep faith and commitment to service. Tributes poured in from international leaders, including Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who praised Carter’s role in the historic peace agreement between Egypt and Israel, and China’s Foreign Ministry, which acknowledged his efforts in establishing diplomatic relations. The Nobel Peace Prize Committee lauded his decades of work for democracy and human rights. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, along with global figures like Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, emphasized his legacy of compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to improving lives worldwide.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 5 pmeznews.inIn a stark warning, the United Nations has declared 2024 as set to be the hottest year on record, amidst a decade of unprecedented heat and escalating climate change impacts. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that greenhouse gas emissions have surged to new highs, exacerbating future warming. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo highlighted the devastating consequences, including record rainfall, flooding, and intense heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in several regions. The 2015 Paris Agreement's goals remain at risk, as the average surface temperature is now 1.54 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgency for countries to dramatically reduce emissions by 2025 to avert further climate breakdown. As the WMO prepares for its 75th anniversary in 2025, it aims to enhance climate services and focus on the cryosphere to address these escalating threats.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 6 pmeznews.inA recent study from University College London (UCL), commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care, reveals that men lose 17 minutes of life for each cigarette smoked, while women lose 22 minutes, surpassing earlier estimates of 11 minutes. The research indicates that a single cigarette reduces life expectancy by approximately 20 minutes, meaning a pack of 20 cigarettes could shorten life by nearly seven hours. Dr. Sarah Jackson, a principal research fellow at UCL, emphasized that smokers who fail to quit may lose around a decade of life, impacting vital moments with loved ones. The study encourages smokers to quit, particularly as the New Year approaches, suggesting that stopping smoking could yield significant health benefits, including regaining a week of life by mid-February. The World Health Organization highlights tobacco as a major public health threat, claiming over 8 million lives annually, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected.
Published: Dec 30 2024, 4 pm
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