Journal of travel medicine
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With the emergence of novel pathogens, there is a worldwide debate on the cancellation or conduction of mass gathering events. ⋯ The direct influence of Kumbh Mela on the increase in the overall number of COVID-19 cases is observed. Although, the socio-cultural, psychological and economical advantages of MGs are considerable in a developing nation like India, but organization of such events can be a huge health hazard. The lack of efficient implementation and observance of COVID-19 guidelines elevates the necessity of cancellation of such MGs to prevent the outbreak of diseases. Thus, a well-conducted risk assessment prior to the hosting of a MG event during a pandemic is required with strict application of precautionary measures towards prevention of super-spreader events.
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Following the ‘second wave’ of COVID-19 in India, there has been an upsurge of domestic travel to holiday destinations, particularly Himalayan mountain towns. Modelling suggests that such travel could enhance the peak of a third wave in these states by almost 50%. Principles of ‘responsible travel’ should be adhered to.
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Case Reports
Pandemic-related delay of falciparum malaria diagnosis in a traveler leading to cerebral malaria.
We report the case of a 29-year-old male in whom COVID-19 concerns led to a delayed diagnosis of falciparum malaria. The patient developed symptoms of cerebral malaria with cytotoxic lesions of the corpus callosum in magnetic resonance imaging.