The Nipah virus cases have been confirmed in India. This infection is dangerous because of its high rate of transmission, risk of serious neurological complications. Originating in bats, the virus can pass to humans through contaminated food, infected animals or close contact with an infected person, making early detection critical. With no approved vaccine or specific treatment, prevention, rapid diagnosis, and strict infection control remain our strongest defenses1.
India has confirmed two cases of Nipah virus in West Bengal. Both patients—25-year-old nurses working at the same private hospital in Barasat, North 24 Parganas—developed symptoms in late December 2025 that rapidly progressed to neurological complications2. They were placed in isolation in early January 2026. All identified contacts have tested negative. As per news reports, suspected contacts have been traced and put in quarantine-underscoring the importance of swift action when dealing with high-risk infections like Nipah.
Learn how the Nipah Virus or NiV spreads, the symptoms, and its treatment below:
Symptoms usually show up between 4 to 14 days after being exposed to the virus3. At the start, the illness can appear within 3 to 14 days with few or more of the following symptoms.
The Nipah Virus features in the WHO 2018 list of viruses that have the potential to create an epidemic or a huge health scare in the world.
The Nipah Virus was first found in pigs in Kampung Sungai Nipah, in Malaysia in the year 1998. This is the seventh time when India has reported Nipah Virus cases and third occurrence in West Bengal, following Nipah virus outbreaks in Siliguri (2001) and Nadia (2007). The affected districts border Bangladesh, where Nipah outbreaks occur almost annually4.
Per the WHO, the NiV aka Nipah Virus disease, is a viral infection, an emerging zoonosis that can be transmitted to human beings who come in contact with infected animals. It is a deadly disease for both humans and animals. Fruit bats are this virus’s natural hosts. These bats belong to the Pteropodidae family of the Pteropus genus5.
In 2018, in the case of the Nipah virus in Kerala, the disease was reported to be spreading due to human-to-human transmission. The first reported case of NiV was reported in Siliguri district in the year 2001, of which of the 66 cases reported, 45 people died from the disease1.
Nipah virus infection can spread to humans by the following means:
Vaccine for Nipah Virus prevention is not available yet. Following measures to reduce the risk of exposure to Nipah virus can help in reducing the spread of the virus in places with active cases3:
These simple steps can help protect you and others from getting exposed to Nipah virus.
Nipah virus has a fatality rate between 40% and 75% depending on the strain, death rates after contracting the infection are thus very high, so prevention is the most suitable option for this disease5.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj ,M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
One or more of the following tests can be advised to check if someone has NiV infection:
Also Read: What Is Hantavirus? Symptoms, Causes, & Effective Prevention
The treatment for Nipah Virus focuses on containing the fever and the neurological symptoms. Treatment should not be delayed and suspected patients must be managed under expert supervision.
Also Read: Human Papillomavirus (HPV): What Is It, Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Nipah virus infection is a serious and potentially deadly infection that demands our attention and vigilance. While outbreaks are relatively rare, understanding the symptoms, preventive measures, and early diagnosis is crucial to curbing its spread and saving lives. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions can help protect ourselves and our communities from this formidable viral threat.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any change
High heels are often associated with style, confidence, and elegance, and many women choose heels to complete their look. While wearing heels occasionally may not cause significant harm, frequent or prolonged use can gradually affect different parts of the body, starting from the feet and moving upward.
Over time, the altered posture and uneven weight distribution caused by high heels can place extra strain on joints, muscles, and tendons. Understanding how heels influence the body can help you make more informed footwear choices.
The feet bear the entire weight of our body and their joints and ligaments are prone to wear and tear. High heels can add pressure to the feet by altering the way of walking, shifting the weight forwards and causing strain on the ball of the feet and increasing risk of injuries. They can cause severe discomfort and pain in the heels, toes, arch and soul of the feet1. Moreover, it is found that continuous wearing can lead to deformities in the feet such as hallux valgus (deviation of the big toe towards other toes)2.
The ankle joint is greatly affected by high heels. High heels can cause shortening of calf muscles and stiffening of Achilles tendon (the tendon in the ankle that connects the calf muscle and heel bone) with regular usage3. This can affect natural movement and causes pain when regular footwear is worn. Constant pressure on the tendon can strain the tendon, causing inflammation and increasing the risk of injuries. Moreover, the continuous strain on the ankles, makes them more susceptible to arthritis4,5.
High heels can have a significant impact on the knees causing pain and discomfort along with changes in walking pattern. Walking with high heels can lead to excessive pressure and wearing of knee cartilage (the cushioning in our joints) and reduction in the inner joint space of knees. The change in knee alignment and increased strain on the knee joint with continuous use of heels can cause pain, stiffness, and increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis6.
High heels can cause constant strain on hip muscles leaving them in a contracted state causing pain and altered posture. Due to the changed walking patterns with heels, the range of motion at hip joint is reduced, causing a change in posture with forward shifting of pelvic bone. Constant use can lead to weakening of hip muscles causing discomfort and may affect balance7.
Heels can limit the natural motion of our feet, shifting the center of gravity forwards thereby causing postural changes for compensation that can lead to spinal discomfort. Wearing high heels may also compress the vertebrae, strain the back muscles, and lead to back pain8.
Discomfort caused by high heels tends to develop gradually, which is why many people overlook early warning signs. Mild pain or stiffness after wearing heels is often dismissed as normal especially when it subsides after rest. Women may at times bear the discomfort as a price for the aesthetic appeal they offer1. Over time however, repeated stress on the feet and joints can lead to persistent issues.
Another reason heel-related problems go unnoticed is that symptoms may not appear immediately while wearing the shoes. Pain, tightness, or numbness often become more noticeable after the heels are removed or when other footwear are worn, making it harder to link the discomfort directly to footwear. In addition, many people adapt their walking style subconsciously to stay balanced in heels, masking strain until it begins to interfere with daily activities.
Because these changes happen slowly, individuals may continue wearing heels despite ongoing stress on muscles, tendons, and joints, increasing the risk of long-term discomfort or injury.
Occasional discomfort after wearing high heels may be common, but persistent or worsening symptoms are not normal and should not be ignored. Continuing to wear heels despite ongoing pain can increase the risk of long-term foot and joint problems.
You should consider stopping heel use and seeking medical advice if you experience:
If these symptoms continue even after reducing heel use, it is advisable to consult an orthopaedic specialist or podiatrist. Early evaluation can help identify underlying issues such as tendon tightness, joint stress, or nerve involvement and prevent further complications.
Wearing heels for extended periods places sustained pressure on the feet and joints. Taking breaks or switching to supportive footwear during the day allows muscles and tendons to relax and recover, reducing cumulative strain.
Heels with a wider base, cushioned insoles, and proper arch support offer better stability and distribute weight more evenly. Such designs can help reduce pressure on the forefoot and improve overall balance while walking. A heel height of about 3.5-4.5cm is generally considered appropriate to wear9.
Ill-fitting heels or narrow toe boxes can compress the toes and surrounding nerves. Selecting shoes that fit well and allow adequate toe movement can help minimise discomfort, numbness, and pressure-related pain.
Gentle stretching of the calves, ankles, and feet after wearing heels can relieve muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular stretching may also reduce stiffness when transitioning back to flat footwear.
Avoid wearing heels every day and alternate with comfortable shoes on consecutive days whenever possible. Rotating between heels and comfortable, supportive shoes helps distribute stress across different muscle groups and reduces overuse injuries.
Uneven or slippery surfaces can increase strain and affect balance while wearing heels. Choosing stable ground and slowing down while walking can help reduce the risk of falls and joint stress.
Also Read: Sprained Ankle: What Is It, Causes, Symptoms & More
While high heels can be a part of your wardrobe, wearing them daily may increase the risk of foot, joint, and back problems over time. Choosing supportive footwear for routine use and limiting heels to occasional wear can help reduce strain on the body and support long-term musculoskeletal health.
From a health perspective, a low heel height of about 2–4 cm (1–1.5 inches) is generally considered the safest. This height provides slight elevation without significantly altering posture or placing excessive stress on the feet, ankles, and spine. Extremely flat footwear and very high heels can both disrupt natural foot mechanics, so moderate elevation with good arch support is usually the most comfortable option for everyday wear.
Wearing heels does not permanently change body shape, but frequent use can influence posture and muscle balance over time. High heels push the pelvis forward, tighten the calf muscles, and increase the curve of the lower back. With prolonged and regular wear, these changes may affect walking patterns and muscle flexibility, although most effects are reversible when heel use is reduced.
High heels are often discouraged because they shift body weight forward, placing increased pressure on the forefoot and altering natural alignment. This can strain the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Long-term or daily use may increase the risk of foot pain, joint stress, tendon tightness, and posture-related discomfort, particularly in individuals with existing musculoskeletal issues.
After knee replacement surgery, wearing high heels is usually not recommended, especially in the early recovery phase. Heels can place extra stress on the knee joint and affect balance, increasing the risk of strain or injury. If heel use is considered later on, it should be limited to low, stable heels and only after clearance from an orthopaedic specialist or physiotherapist.
Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid wearing high heels. During pregnancy, changes in body weight, posture, and balance increase the risk of falls. Heels can further strain the lower back and feet, which are already under added stress. Comfortable, supportive footwear with a low heel and good grip is usually a safer choice throughout pregnancy.
Heels with a wider base, such as block heels or wedges, generally offer better stability than narrow stilettos. Shoes with cushioning, arch support, and ankle straps can also reduce strain. However, no heel is entirely risk-free if worn for long durations.
Yes, narrow or high heels can compress nerves in the forefoot due to increased pressure and restricted toe space. This may lead to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations, particularly after prolonged standing or walking.
Yes, discomfort due conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis may worsen with continued heel use. Elevated heels can increase pressure on sensitive areas and aggravate pain, making supportive footwear a better option for individuals with known foot problems.
Occasional heel use is unlikely to cause lasting harm in individuals without existing foot or joint issues. Problems are more commonly associated with daily or prolonged wear. Allowing adequate recovery time between wearing heels helps reduce stress on muscles and joints.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
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Leafy greens contain a healthy mix of vitamins, minerals, protein, antioxidants, and other nutrients. Regular consumption of greens such as spinach, kale, and coriander may help support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels, strengthen the immune system, and promote cell growth and repair. Including a variety of leafy greens in your daily diet is a simple yet effective way to enhance overall well-being1.
Spinach (palak) is rich in iron and fiber, low in fat and cholesterol. Studies1 have shown that spinach may help with digestion, improve eye health, boost energy levels, strengthen bones, and even lower blood sugar and pressure. As a part of every world cuisine, it is the most common green leafy vegetable found in India.
Fenugreek (methi) leaves are known to improve blood sugar control, insulin levels, and metabolism2. In Indian food, it is used extensively in rotis and curries.
Parsley is packed with vitamins A and C. It offers several health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and pain, helping with digestion, controlling blood sugar, and boosting the immune system. Studies3 also show that it may be beneficial in reducing anxiety and depression.
Besides freshening our palate, mint (pudina) helps with weight loss, depression, nausea, asthma, and skin problems. It also has several other benefits, like improving brain function, reducing pain during breastfeeding, and helping reduce symptoms of common cold1.
Cabbage is richer in vitamin C than oranges. Cabbage can help with skin problems due to its healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Nutrients present in cabbage may also help reduce cholesterol, improve digestion, and lower blood pressure4. Therefore, cabbage is often considered a great leafy green vegetable that helps to maintain a healthy heart.
Regular consumption of these ensures blood and liver detoxification, lowering cholesterol, and improving skin and eye health1.
Lettuce is rich in essential vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that lower blood sugar, protect neural health, and fight cancer cells5.
Curry leaves (kadhipatta) can be beneficial for stomach ailments, diabetes, and to balance cholesterol. Studies6 have shown that curry leaf extract may help kill breast tumor cells by reducing cell growth and harmful effects in the body.
It improves cardiovascular health, strengthens bones, and stops hair loss1.
Bok choy is known as Chinese cabbage or pak choi, bok choy is a nutrient-rich cruciferous vegetable. It’s an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. One of its key components is selenium, a trace mineral that supports the immune system and helps protect the body from oxidative stress and infection. With its mild flavor and crisp texture, bok choy is a versatile and healthy addition to a balanced diet4.
In Indian traditional medicine, basil (tulsi) leaf extracts have been used to manage conditions like bronchitis, rheumatism, and fever. Other known therapeutic uses include managing nerve pain, headaches, reducing blood pressure, and regulating blood sugar levels7. There are different types of basil leaves, like sweet, Greek, Thai, holy, cinnamon, and lettuce basil, each with its unique set of health benefits.
Green onions are rich in essential minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which support nerve function, muscle contraction, bone health, and blood pressure regulation8.
Collard greens contain properties that may offer various health benefits. These include supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, helping to lower blood pressure, and potentially reducing the risk of certain conditions such as cancer, arthritis, and muscular dystrophy5.
Kale is a healthy addition to smoothies and salads. It may help prevent cancer metastasis, support detoxification, enhance heart function, and contribute to healthy brain development4.
Beet leaves are known for their analgesic properties. It may help improve digestion, clears acne, increases appetite, and promote oral health. It also has various other antiseptic and antioxidant benefits5.
Beet greens promote healthy bones, teeth, skin, and blood vessels. They improve vision, power up the immune system, and maintain cellular health4.
Watercress is a nutrient rich leafy green that is linked to a lower risk of heart disease, metabolic disorders, muscle and bone problems, and some cancers4.
Celery may improve cardiovascular health, reduces blood pressure, decreases cholesterol, regulates blood sugar, and boosts digestion and weight loss9.
Apart from enhancing the flavor of the food, fennel offers many health benefits. Studies10 have shown that it helps reduce hot flashes, vaginal itching and dryness, and sleep.
Coriander (cilantro) has more benefits than just enhancing the taste of food. It improves digestion, reduces cholesterol, keeps the urinary tract healthy, promotes better sleep, relieves anxiety, and lowers blood sugar levels11.
Also Read: Moringa Leaves – Health Benefits That You Should Know
While most people may not love leafy green vegetables such as those on this list, they are in fact extremely nutritious. Most of these leafy green vegetables are cultivated year-round, which means that they would be available at your nearest grocery market. This makes it easy to include them in your regular diet. With their many health benefits, these 20 leafy greens can be a smart and healthy addition to your everyday meals.
Also Read: 8 Unknown Benefits of Mango Leaves
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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