Diwali is the time of the year when our nation’s children are on holiday and festivities are rampant. Sadly this fun time for children is also when firecrackers and fireworks are available in plenty. The word “firecrackers” evokes quite a bit of emotion and is often associated with great joy but one must realize that the chemical smoke and gases released from firecrackers can be regarded as a serious concern for the capacity of eyes for children.

It is shocking to know that mothers and fathers have been using firecrackers for this long despite it being scientifically proven to be a pollutant and one that can heavily damage children’s eyesight.

But now, as a parent, most people see things differently—firecracker smoke, while dazzling, risks young eyes and health. From choosing eco-friendly lights and indoor activities, ensuring a festive, safe celebration for your children’s well-being is important and necessary. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology, Ophthalmologist, Eye Surgeon shares all about the toxic effects of smoke from the firecrackers kids so lovingly enjoy bursting and how harmful they can be for their eyes.

Hazardous Effects of Firecracker Smoke

The smoke from firecrackers is a blend of toxic chemicals and fine particles, each carrying potential harm for the delicate tissues of the eyes. Here are some key pollutants present in firecracker smoke that pose specific dangers:

Particulate matter: These are the fumes exhaled from burning that are extremely small but can infiltrate deep into the lungs and eyes creating lesions and scars.

Sulfur dioxide & nitrogen oxides: These gasses emit acid rain, it's easy to comprehend how detrimental it is to the human body.

Heavy metals: If consumed through the skin lead arsenic or any other toxic metals emitted through firecrackers will inflict great damage.

Common Eye Conditions Linked to Firecracker Pollution in Children

Exposure to firecracker smoke can cause a range of immediate symptoms in children, as well as chronic eye problems that may not become apparent until much later. Children are at high risk of developing some symptoms upon exposure to firecracker smoke, and these include:

Red eye syndrome: Clinical eye examinations show that the eyes can be red and watery, as well as itchy due to the smoke's chemicals.

Eye pain: Another common complaint in children is a burning and stinging sensation in the eye areas.

Intolerance to light: The burning of firecrackers leads to the emission of smoke that can irritate the eyes and increase their sensitivity.

Corneal damage: Severe inflammation of the outer layer of the eyeball caused by exposure to smoke may be a more damaging injury caused than previously mentioned damages of the inner layer.

Long-Term Effects of Firecracker Smoke on Eye Health

While some eye issues may appear right after exposure, others may develop subtly and manifest over time, resulting in chronic eye conditions. Dr Neeraj exclaims, "Of great concern is the fact that parents may not notice these initial signs and the signs that are causes are others since these are only some of the diseases that are dangerous but children who continuously come into contact with air polluted by firecrackers may consider the following risks:

Cataracts

Glaucoma

Dry eye syndrome

Tips for Protecting Children’s Eyes During Diwali

Parents can observe the following measures to shield their children's eyes from the harmful effects of firecracker smoke:

Avoid exposure: In the first place, the best way to avoid damaging children’s eyes is to prevent any contact with firecracker smoke. Encourage children to remain in the house or in well-ventilated areas during a firework display.

Wear protective eyewear: In the event that children have to go outside during a firework display, they should wear protective eyewear such as goggles or sunglasses.

Rinse eyes thoroughly: In case of exposure of firework smoke to the child’s eyes, the affected eyes should be washed with plenty of clean water.

Seek medical attention: If a child suffers from intense pain in the eyes, redness in the eyes or any changes in vision after exposure to cracker smoke, he/she should be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible.

Parental Guidance During Diwali

1.⁠ ⁠Educate Children on Firecracker Safety

2.⁠ ⁠Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI)

3.⁠ ⁠Plan Indoor Activities During Peak Pollution Hours

4.⁠ ⁠Encourage Healthy Eye Habits (Regular Exams, Hygiene)

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Firecrackers

1.⁠ ⁠Eco-Friendly Firecrackers

2.⁠ ⁠Laser Light Shows

3.⁠ ⁠Community Events (Parades, Festivals)

4.⁠ ⁠Indoor Games and Activities

5.⁠ ⁠Environmentally Conscious Celebrations

Firecrackers undoubtedly liven up the festivities; however, the use of firecrackers and their impact on the health of children has caused a lot of concern, especially their vision. It has become crucial to protect young developing eyes from fire cracker pollution which is harmful to them, especially in the long run. In this manner, we are able to assist in the preservation of our children’s eyesight and create safe and happy festive occasions for everyone.

Walking into a clinic or diagnostic centre is never easy. You carry your worries, discomfort, or questions, hoping the people there will guide you with care. Most medical professionals honour that trust. But when someone crosses a line—when a touch feels sexual, unnecessary, or wrong, the sense of safety disappears instantly. It’s not just awkwardness; it’s a violation in a place where you should feel protected.

A recent case in Bengaluru shows just how real this is. A radiologist at a private diagnostic centre was booked for allegedly sexually harassing a woman during a routine scan. When she spoke up, he reportedly threatened her and used abusive language to intimidate her. She had come for an abdominal scan with her husband, expecting a routine procedure, not harassment.

What stays with you after such an experience is not just the shock, it’s the feeling that your trust has been broken. That moment cannot be taken back. What you can do, however, is make sure the system is held accountable, so no one else has to face the same harm.

This raises an important question. Are there legal protections in India that support patients in such situations? To understand this better, we spoke with Anisha Mathur, Founding Partner at Shepherd Law Associates.

What Does India’s New Criminal Law Say?

India’s updated criminal code, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaces the Indian Penal Code, is clear that sexual misconduct is a crime no matter where it occurs. Clinics, nursing homes, physiotherapy rooms, diagnostic centers, and even home-based procedure spaces fall under its scope. If a staff member touches a patient in a way that is not medically necessary, ignores privacy during an intimate examination, makes the patient feel uncomfortable, or reveals sexual intent, the act may be treated as a criminal offence.

According to Anisha Mathur, “Unwanted or unnecessary touch can amount to sexual harassment. Any contact that has sexual intent and is not medically justified may be treated as assault with sexual intent. The context, the nature of the procedure and the patient’s consent are all considered while determining this. A medical setting is not a loophole. A uniform is not immunity. Misconduct is misconduct.”

Actions To Take When A Sexual Misconduct Takes Place In A Medical Setting

Once you recognise that the behaviour is inappropriate, you have every right to act. Anisha Mathur suggests the following steps:

Step 1: Pause the interaction

Say you want the procedure to stop. You may ask for a female attendant or any other staff member to be present.

Step 2: Move to a safer area

Walk to the waiting room or any open space within the facility.

Step 3: Note down details

Record the time, the room, what happened and who was involved. Even small details may matter later.

In a larger hospital or diagnostic chain, go to the administration or patient desk and request that your complaint be put in writing. Many such establishments have an Internal Committee (IC) under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, 2013.

If you are in a smaller clinic, nursing home or any space without a complaint system, call 100 or 112. When the officials arrive, ask them to record your statement. If you can reach a lawyer, it helps, because early legal guidance prevents confusion and intimidation.

Anisha adds, “Authorities may ask whether you want a Medico-Legal Certificate (MLC) examination to document physical signs, which is normal. You can request a trusted friend or family member to be with you. You do not need to know the law in that moment. You only need to protect yourself, the law will support you. If something feels wrong, it is wrong. You are allowed to stop the procedure immediately.”

Legal Actions You Can Take After the Incident

Once the initial shock settles, several routes are available:

• Filing a criminal complaint (FIR)

• Requesting disciplinary action from the medical council

• Filing a civil or consumer case if the establishment failed in its duty

Anisha Mathur stresses that both the individual staff member and the institution can be held responsible. This is often how meaningful change begins.

Can a Patient File a Complaint Anonymously?

In many hospitals and clinics, internal systems allow anonymous complaints. For police cases, your identity is needed for investigation, but Indian law protects your privacy strictly. Your name cannot be disclosed publicly. Any attempt to threaten or silence you becomes a separate offence.

Are Hospitals Expected To Have Safety Measures For Patients?

Every medical facility is expected to follow basic standards that protect patients. According to Anisha, these include:

• Clear consent before intimate examinations

• A female attendant upon request

• Privacy safeguards during procedures

• Staff training on professional boundaries

• A channel for patients to raise concerns

If these were ignored or missing, it strengthens the patient’s case. These protections are not optional. They are part of the provider’s legal duty.

Consequences For Staff Who Violate Boundaries

Sexual misconduct by medical staff is treated as seriously as misconduct in any other setting, sometimes more so because patients are vulnerable and rely on the professional’s judgment. Anisha explains, “Under BNS, the staff member can face criminal prosecution leading to arrest, fines, suspension or dismissal, and loss of professional license. Courts have repeatedly said that misusing power in a caregiving role makes the offence more serious, not less.”

Being in a medical space should never turn into an experience marked by fear. Any form of sexual misconduct during care is a violation of your dignity at a moment when you are already exposed and trusting. What happened cannot be undone.

Anisha Mathur stresses this and says, “Your voice can bring accountability. Your action can protect someone else. Your dignity remains yours, and the law stands with you.”

The world is battling a 'very tough' flu season this year. Already there was super flu, the mutated clade K, and now reports of three children from Ottawa and Eastern Ontario dying due to flu-related complications in the past two weeks have come up. This is the result of influenza A. This strain is currently circulating widely and affecting children more severely than ever.

What Is So Unique About Influenza A?

As per the National Institutes of Health, US, influenza viruses that contains single-stranded RNA that are classified into three types: A, B, and C. Type A and B cause annual epidemics and even pandemics, while type C is a less common disease.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Influenza A viruses are descendants of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus that emerged in the spring of 2009 and caused a flu pandemic. These viruses, scientifically called the "A(H1N1)pdm09 virus," and more generally called "2009 H1N1," have continued to circulate seasonally since 2009 and have undergone genetic and antigenic changes.

Influenza A(H3N2) viruses also change genetically and antigenically. Influenza A(H3N2) viruses have formed many separate, genetically different clades in recent years that continue to co-circulate.

It is a fast-spreading respiratory virus responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks and, at times, global pandemics. It changes quickly through genetic shifts, which makes new strains harder to predict and control. The virus is grouped based on surface proteins called hemagglutinin and neuraminidase, with H1N1 and H3N2 among the most common strains in circulation. It spreads mainly through coughs, sneezes, or close contact and often comes on suddenly, causing fever, cough, body pain, and extreme tiredness. In some cases, it can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable groups.

Is There A Difference Between H1N1 and H3N2 Virus?

Both are a type of influenza A virus that causes seasonal flu. However, while H3N2 changes its form regularly, which makes it harder for our immune system to fight it off, H1N1 is also known as swine flu. It is now a regular seasonal flu virus that comes back every year.

Read: Influenza A: Can Flu Kill You? Here's All That You Need To Know

How to differentiate between the two in terms of symptoms?

H3N2 Symptoms

• High fever (often above 101°F)
• Severe body aches and muscle pain
• Extreme tiredness that lasts longer
• Dry cough that can be persistent
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea (especially in children)

H1N1 Symptoms

• Fever (usually moderate)
• Body aches (less severe than H3N2)
• Cough
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Stomach problems (more common)
• Diarrhea and vomiting (especially in children)
• Chills and sweating

The recovery time of any influenza could last up to 5 to 14 days, the key is to monitor breathing patterns and avoid over medication.

What Is The Best Line Of Defense?

This year, the flu is hitting hard everywhere. While winter flu cases are not uncommon, the virus is changing every day, which causes it to be more severe than ever. The best line of defense in this case is vaccination. Experts have suggested that despite mutation, vaccine provides the best defense.

“The flu vaccine may not always prevent infection, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications,” officials said. They added that the vaccine takes about two weeks to become fully effective, making early vaccination crucial ahead of the holiday season, when virus spread typically increases.

The year 2025 served as a stark reminder that COVID is no longer the only illness demanding public attention. Over the months, several diseases resurfaced or intensified, some reaching epidemic levels. In many cases, the surge was driven by new variants that altered how these illnesses spread, how severe they became, and how quickly they overwhelmed health systems.

From respiratory infections to vector-borne diseases, 2025 showed how familiar pathogens can return in unfamiliar forms. Mutations made some infections more contagious, while others blurred early symptoms, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Below, we take a look at new variants of diseases that we witnessed in 2025.

Also Read: The “Triangle of Death” on Your Face: Why You Should Never Pop a Pimple There

New Disease Variants That Emerged In 2025

COVID-19 New Variants

In 2025, fresh COVID-19 variants continued to circulate, most of them linked to Omicron sublineages. These strains spread quickly but, for many people, caused symptoms closer to a bad cold, flu, or seasonal allergies. Common symptoms included stomach issues, body pain, exhaustion, and fever.

Health authorities continued to advise testing through RAT or RT-PCR, short-term isolation, and medical care where needed. As with earlier waves, acting early made a clear difference in recovery and containment.

As per World Health Organization, some of the Covid variants that appeared in 2025 include:

XFG Variant

The XFG variant of COVID-19, also known as Stratus, surfaced in early 2025 as a recombinant strain. Recombinant variants form when two different COVID strains infect the same person and merge during mutation, a process that occurs naturally as viruses evolve. XFG drew attention because of how easily it spread and its ability to infect people despite previous infection or vaccination. Classified as a recombinant Omicron subvariant, XFG was detected widely across regions including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Also Read: 8 Red Flags That May Suggest Cancer Growth In Your Body

According to WHO-linked data from mid to late 2025:

In the United States, XFG became the leading variant, responsible for around 85 percent of reported cases by the end of September 2025.

In the United Kingdom, XFG and related sublineages accounted for a sizeable share of infections, with reports suggesting nearly 30 percent of cases in July 2025.

In India, where XFG circulated by mid-2025, early clusters were largely reported from Maharashtra, followed by Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Gujarat. It later emerged as the dominant strain in states such as Madhya Pradesh.

The nickname “Frankenstein” was informally attached to XFG because it combines genetic material from different Omicron subvariants. Experts from institutions like the Institute Pasteur and the University of Nebraska Medical Center noted that while it spreads rapidly, it has not been linked to more severe disease.

Omicron NB.1.8.1

NB.1.8.1, informally called “Nimbus,” is a distinct Omicron lineage that was first identified in early 2025. The World Health Organization classified it as a “Variant Under Monitoring” after noticing its steady global rise, particularly across parts of Asia and North America. Although it contributed to visible spikes in case numbers, there was no strong evidence that it caused more serious illness. Vaccines continued to offer reliable protection.

By mid-2025, NB.1.8.1 had become one of the faster-spreading Omicron offshoots, driving fresh COVID waves in several countries. Despite its speed, health agencies confirmed that existing vaccines remained effective and that the variant was not linked to increased severity. The WHO officially placed it under monitoring in May 2025.

Flu New Variants

H3N2 “Subclade K” Variant

The flu strain seen during the winter months of 2025 was identified as H3N2 subclade K, a seasonal influenza A virus. Some public commentary labelled it “super flu,” though this term has no medical basis and does not suggest the virus is inherently more dangerous or resistant to treatment. A key concern was that many people had limited prior exposure to this strain, resulting in lower community immunity. Flu vaccines, however, continued to protect against severe outcomes.

Data from NHS England showed a sharp rise in flu-related hospital admissions. During the first week of December, hospitals reported an average of 2,660 flu patients per day, marking a 55 percent increase from the previous week. The number of admissions was high enough to fill more than three entire hospital trusts.

Monkeypox New Variant

Clade LB Variant

Health authorities in England detected a new mpox variant after testing a person who had recently travelled to Asia, as per BBC. Genetic sequencing revealed that the strain was recombinant, combining elements of two circulating mpox types: clade 1, which is associated with more severe illness, and clade 2, which was responsible for the 2022 global outbreak.

The UK Health Security Agency stated that it was still evaluating the implications of this strain. While most mpox cases remain mild, officials advised people who qualify for vaccination to get immunised as a precautionary step.

Chikungunya New Variant

In 2025, Chikungunya did not see the emergence of a single newly named variant. Instead, there was a renewed spread of the East, Central, and South African genotype, particularly the Indian Ocean Lineage. This lineage has developed mutations that improve its ability to spread.

According to the National Institutes of Health, certain CHIKV lineages, including the E1-226A variant, previously helped shift infections into urban settings. More recent severe cases reported in India, including outbreaks in Pune in 2024, showed signs of neurological involvement such as paralysis and darkened nasal tissue. These symptoms are thought to be linked to mutations like E1-226V or A and E2-I211T, along with improved adaptation of the virus to Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, pointing to continued viral evolution aimed at more efficient transmission.