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Published on: Aug 09, 2023
2 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Unveiling The Eris Variant: Understanding Its Emergence In Maharashtra And Expert Insights On India's Concerns

In recent Covid news, the emergence of the EG.5.1 variant, also known as Eris, has caught the attention of health experts globally. Initially contributing to a surge in Coronavirus cases in the UK, this variant has now caused a slight increase in Covid caseload in Maharashtra, India. Although not a cause for panic, understanding the implications of new Covid variants like Eris and staying vigilant is crucial. This article dives into the details, expert opinions, and steps individuals can take to navigate this evolving situation.

The Emergence of the Eris Variant

Variant Overview
The Eris variant, identified as EG.5.1, gained prominence due to its association with the Covid surge in the UK. More recently, it has made its presence felt in Maharashtra, India, leading to a rise in Covid cases.
Impact in Maharashtra
Maharashtra, a state that experienced significant Covid challenges, is now facing the ripple effects of the Eris variant. According to state health department data, Covid cases increased from 70 at the end of July to 115 on August 6. While the rise in cases is notable, there's no need to succumb to panic.

Expert Insights and Recommendations

Vigilance and Immunity
Health experts emphasize the importance of vigilance, especially considering the ongoing fluctuations in Covid trends. Dr. Ravi Shekhar Jha, Director & HOD-Pulmonology at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, notes that while there's no reason to panic, complacency isn't an option. With waning immunity from previous infections and vaccinations, taking booster shots becomes imperative to stay resilient against the virus.
Monitoring and Precautions
Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of critical care & Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, suggests that while the Eris variant has been detected in Mumbai, it's not yet a major concern for India. Nonetheless, maintaining standard hygiene practices, wearing masks, and practicing proper sanitization remain essential measures to prevent any potential upsurge in Covid cases.

The Symptoms and Spread of Eris

Symptomatology
The symptoms of the Eris variant are akin to those associated with previous variants, including cough, cold, fever, throat pain, and chest tightness. In immunocompromised individuals, it could lead to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), making early detection and management paramount.
Transmission
The Eris variant, as part of the Omicron strain lineage, demonstrates traits of increased infectivity. However, with a significant proportion of the population having received double vaccinations, the risk of widespread infection and severe hospitalizations is believed to be minimal.

Precautionary Measures for Individuals

Holistic Approach
Health experts emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to safeguarding health. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, adopting a hygienic lifestyle, and considering regular vaccination or flu shots, where applicable.
Safety Precautions
While the Eris variant's impact may not be as severe, following Covid-appropriate behavior remains critical. Wearing masks, avoiding crowded places, and practicing thorough sanitization are key actions to reduce the risk of transmission.

In Conclusion

The emergence of the Eris variant in Maharashtra serves as a reminder that the battle against Covid is far from over. While the variant's impact may not be as pronounced, staying informed, adhering to expert recommendations, and practicing preventive measures can collectively contribute to India's continued fight against the virus. As individuals and a community, vigilance and responsible actions will play a pivotal role in taming the potential effects of new Covid variants like Eris.

Read FAQs

A. The Eris variant, also known as EG.5.1, is a new strain of the Covid virus that emerged in the UK and has now been detected in Maharashtra, India. While it shares similarities with other variants, Eris carries unique mutations in the spike protein of the virus. These mutations have sparked concern due to their potential impact on transmissibility, severity, and vaccine effectiveness.

A. While the increase in Covid cases associated with the Eris variant is concerning, there's no need to panic. Experts emphasize the importance of vigilance and adherence to preventive measures. The rise in cases could be due to various factors, including waning immunity from previous infections or vaccinations. Taking booster shots, maintaining hygiene practices, and following Covid-appropriate behavior remain pivotal in managing the situation.

A. Vaccines play a crucial role in protecting against severe illness and hospitalization, even in the presence of new variants like Eris. While there may be some impact on vaccine effectiveness, they still provide significant protection. Individuals should prioritize getting vaccinated, consider booster shots when eligible, and continue practicing safety measures such as wearing masks, social distancing, and proper sanitization. These actions collectively contribute to minimizing the potential spread of the Eris variant and other Covid strains.

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Metabolic Health Improvement Programs in India

Metabolic health has become one of India’s most urgent healthcare priorities. With rising rates of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, PCOS and cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders are now affecting people across all age groups. The shift in dietary habits, stress levels, sedentary lifestyles and genetic predisposition has made millions vulnerable to metabolic dysfunction.

This has led to the rapid growth of metabolic health improvement programs in India; structured, scientific, data-driven programs that aim to restore balance across blood sugar, cholesterol, hormones, weight and inflammation. SecondMedic is actively advancing this space by integrating AI tools, medical insights, nutrition science and remote monitoring into comprehensive metabolic wellness pathways.

This blog explores why metabolic health is declining in India, what these programs include and how they help prevent long-term chronic diseases.

Understanding the Metabolic Health Crisis in India

The Scale of the Problem

According to the ICMR India Diabetes & Metabolic Research Study, India has:
• Over 100 million diabetics
• Over 136 million pre-diabetics
• A rapidly rising obesity rate across young adults
• Growing metabolic syndrome among urban populations

NFHS-5 also highlights:
• Nearly 24% of women and 22% of men in India are overweight or obese
• Central obesity has increased sharply in metropolitan cities
• Lifestyle diseases are now prevalent even in rural regions

This data shows that metabolic dysfunction is not an isolated issue—it is a nationwide concern.

Why Metabolic Health Is Declining

1. Sedentary Work Culture
Desk jobs, long sitting hours and reduced physical activity increase insulin resistance.

2. High-Calorie, Low-Nutrient Diets
Ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates and excess sugar intake worsen metabolic markers.

3. Stress and Sleep Deficit
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, impacting glucose control and fat storage.

4. Hormonal Disorders
PCOS, thyroid issues and insulin resistance are becoming increasingly common in young Indian women.

5. Lack of Early Screening
Most people become aware of metabolic dysfunction only after symptoms appear.

This is where structured metabolic health programs make a powerful difference.

What Are Metabolic Health Improvement Programs?

These are scientific programs focused on:
• Improving metabolic markers
• Reversing early dysfunction
• Preventing chronic diseases
• Building long-term healthy habits

Programs evaluate:
• Blood sugar patterns
• Cholesterol and triglycerides
• Liver and kidney function
• Hormones
• Body composition
• Inflammation markers
• Lifestyle and stress levels

SecondMedic uses AI-driven assessments to detect patterns that manual evaluation often misses.

Key Components of Metabolic Health Programs in India

1. Personalised Metabolic Assessments

The program begins with detailed laboratory analysis. AI tools examine glucose variability, lipid ratios, metabolic age and organ load to determine individual risk levels.

2. Nutrition Planning

Food is the strongest metabolic modifier. Dietitians work with AI meal planners to create:
• Low-GI diets
• Anti-inflammatory meal options
• Balanced macro distributions
• Portion-controlled meal plans

A Lancet Nutrition Research India report notes that personalised diet interventions significantly improve metabolic outcomes.

3. Lifestyle Coaching

Guidance includes:
• Activity planning
• Sleep optimization
• Stress management
• Hydration guidelines

These address the root causes of metabolic dysfunction.

4. Weight Management Strategies

Metabolic programs focus on fat loss—not just weight loss—improving insulin sensitivity.

5. Exercise Prescription

Depending on health conditions, curated plans include:
• Strength training
• Aerobic routines
• Mobility exercises
• Low-impact sessions for beginners

6. Remote Monitoring

Wearables and digital trackers monitor:
• Glucose patterns
• Heart rate
• SpO2
• Steps and calorie burn

Real-time alerts help catch abnormalities early.

7. Preventive Screenings

Programs include periodic tests to identify early metabolic deterioration.

Benefits of Metabolic Health Programs

1. Diabetes Prevention & Reversal

Research shows that lifestyle modifications can reverse early diabetes.
Structured programs reduce fasting glucose, HbA1c and insulin resistance.

2. Weight & Fat Loss

India’s obesity rate is rising quickly, especially among urban populations.
These programs promote sustained fat loss, not crash diets.

3. Improved Heart Health

Managing cholesterol, triglycerides and inflammation reduces cardiovascular risk.

4. Hormonal Balance

Women with PCOS or thyroid issues experience improved cycles, energy levels and metabolic control.

5. Better Liver & Gut Health

Lifestyle programs support fatty liver improvement and digestive stability.

6. Long-Term Prevention

Preventive care is significantly more effective than reactive treatment.
NITI Aayog’s Digital Health Report emphasises prevention as the future of healthcare.

How SecondMedic Supports Metabolic Health Improvement

SecondMedic integrates medical experts, AI tools and digital monitoring to provide:
• AI-backed metabolic assessments
• Personalised diet planning
• Chronic condition monitoring
• Teleconsultations with endocrinologists
• Wellness tracking dashboards
• Preventive risk scoring

This multidimensional approach gives users visibility into their metabolic health and supports long-term behaviour change.

Conclusion

Metabolic health programs in India are essential for addressing the growing burden of diabetes, obesity, PCOS and lifestyle-related diseases. These programs combine evidence-based medical insights with personalised nutrition, exercise and monitoring to build sustainable health improvements.

With advanced AI tools, continuous tracking and preventive frameworks, SecondMedic is shaping the next generation of metabolic wellness in India. The future of Indian healthcare depends not just on treating disease—but preventing it through metabolic strength.

References

• ICMR India Diabetes & Metabolic Research Study
• National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare & Digital Wellness Report
• Lancet Nutrition Research India – Metabolic & Lifestyle Interventions
• WHO Guidelines on Metabolic Disease Prevention
• Statista India Lifestyle Disease Analysis
• EY-FICCI Digital Health & Preventive Care Report

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