COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Related Updates

Activities in your jamats including posting of announcements
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https://religionnews.com/2020/04/24/ism ... -pandemic/

Ismaili TV-streaming platform launches in response to pandemic

April 24, 2020
Aysha Khan

(RNS) — In response to the coronavirus outbreak, the Ismaili Muslim community has launched a global 24/7 online streaming platform to keep members connected.

Called The Ismaili TV, the channel will stream programs on health, wellness, food and culture; musical and dance performances; and lectures on faith.

Nizari Ismailis comprise the second-largest branch of the Shiite Muslim sect. Their leader is Prince Shah Karim al-Husseini, known as the fourth Aga Khan, a business magnate and philanthropist who resides in Portugal. He is the 49th in a succession of imams whose lineage the community traces back to the family of the Prophet Muhammad.

“In our history, the Ismaili community has overcome numerous challenges in various parts of the world,” the announcement of the new platform reads. “A global crisis like this presents an opportunity to come together and face the challenge with a sense of hope and resolve as One Jamat (Community), Together at Home.”

The platform’s launch coincides with the beginning of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month during which communal gatherings and worship take place nightly.

Programs on the channel are aimed at taking “the opportunity to enrich our minds and bodies, to engage more with our families, to focus on faith, and to come together and strengthen our sense of community,” the announcement said.

In 1994, the first international Islamic television channel was launched via satellite network by the minority Ahmadiyya sect, a Sunni offshoot. Muslim Television Ahmadiyya broadcasts 24/7 in eight languages and has grown to include five channels. Several other channels, including Ahlulbayt TV, Islam Channel, Salaam TV and Peace TV, have launched since then.
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Covid-19 Global Pandemic: The Human cost, and Change

http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-covid19.pdf
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Post by mahebubchatur »

Admin wrote:Covid-19 Global Pandemic: The Human cost, and Change

http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-covid19.pdf
“the key to future progress will lie less in traditional top-down systems of command and control -- and more in a broad, bottom-up spirit of coordination and cooperation. [Inclusive Leadership] *.
Social progress, in the long run, will not be found by delegating an all- dominant role to any one player -- but rather through multi-sector partnerships. And within each sector of society, diversity should be a watchword.... The world ... increasingly resembles a vast web in which everything connects to everything else -- where even the smallest groups and loneliest voices can exercise new influence, and where no single source of power can claim substantial control” (2006 -Aga Khan *emphasis added)“

http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9334
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Post by kmaherali »

The.Ismaili Kenya Website Demonstration Video

Video:
https://the.ismaili/kenya/kenya-news,-m ... tion-video

Here is a quick demo on how to navigate https://the.ismaili/kenya and access resources for the entire family!
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We are not only fighting covid19 but also ....

Post by mahebubchatur »

World Health Organisation says “We’re not just fighting an epidemic; we’re fighting an infodemic”

His Highness the Aga Khan, Hazar Imam has given guidance (Firmans*) on the solutions and, also critical need to verify and seek reliable facts & information (See Link below)

“Disinformation is a scourge of our post truth era that tends to piggyback on any crisis, particularly a global one like the current pandemic:

WHO defines an infodemic as “an over-abundance of information, some accurate and some not, that makes it hard for people to find trustworthy sources and reliable guidance when they need it”. 

Top-down spread of infodemic
The current infodemic has been worsened. According to a study by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism and the Oxford Internet Institute entitled “Types, claims and sources of Covid-19 misinformation, 
“false information spread by politicians, celebrities, and other prominent public figures” accounted for 69 percent of total engagement on social media, “

* More below
Aga Khan - Guidances

http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9334

http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... 9686#69686

News and reports

fake news: Fighting the Covid-19 ‘infodemic’

http://f24.my/6QBd.T

https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac ... nformation
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https://dailytimes.com.pk/605632/aku-in ... ily-times/

AKU introduces new COVID19 course

PPI

May 1, 2020

Aga Khan University’s Medical College has introduced a new COVID-19 course for students in all five years of its undergraduate programme in medicine and surgery, MBBS.

The six-week course will provide students with the latest research and evidence on the structure of the disease, its development and spread, and ways to prevent and manage the coronavirus in hospital and community settings.

“The current health crisis is unprecedented, and requires us to adapt our curriculum to provide our graduates with the necessary skill set required to deal with pandemics in general, and COVID-19 in particular,” said Dr Sadaf Khan, associate dean of undergraduate education at AKU.

She noted that recent pandemics such as Ebola, SARS, MERS and now COVID-19 represent threats to our way of life and the long-term stability of our health systems. This requires universities to adopt a different approach to the study of pandemics.

“This is a public health issue that will be of concern for an indeterminate period of time. It will impact the delivery of medical care at all levels. This module will better prepare our students for the challenges that lie ahead,” Dr Khan added.
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https://www.samaa.tv/living/health/2020 ... ting-zone/

AKUH reopens bigger and better COVID-19 testing zone

SAMAA | Dr Taneer Ahmed - Posted:The Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi has reopened and expanded its COVID-19 testing zone. The facility was inaugurated in a ceremony on Thursday.

AKUH’s COVID-19 Screening and Testing Zone can carry out 300 tests on a daily basis. Each test costs Rs7,900 which includes the cost of the swab, confirmed the administration.

Those who cannot afford the test will be given financial support through the hospital’s Zakat funds or Patient Welfare Programme, the hospital said.

Patients will first be screened free of charge through a tele-screening session and then referred to the facility. For an appointment, they can call 021-111-911-911.

Testing at the community health centre in AKUH was halted on March 28 when several doctors at the hospital tested positive for COVID-19.

To prevent infection, the new facility has single booths for patients to stand in, which act as a barrier between them and the healthcare staff. There are physical distancing markings on the ground for patients waiting in line.

The facility is outdoors for improved ventilation and located at a distance from the hospital and OPDs.

“We are open and safe to visit for all patients, with all illnesses,” reassured Shagufta Hasan, interim CEO of the AKUH.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah joined the occasion virtually to inaugurate the facility and was given a tour. Apr 23, 2020
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https://www.noticiasaominuto.com/econom ... a-covid-19

Imamat Ismaili dá 250 mil euros para o combate à Covid-19

04/05/20 por Lusa

Economia Covid-19

A Imamat Ismaili vai contribuir com 250 mil euros para a 'Resposta global ao COVID19 -- Conferência de Doadores', promovida pela Comissão Europeia e que visa acelerar o desenvolvimento da vacina e tratamentos da doença, anunciou hoje a instituição.

Image

A instituição adianta, numa nota, que a Imamat Ismaili, instituição liderada por Aga Khan, "respondeu ao apelo do Governo português e vai contribuir com 250 mil euros para a 'Resposta Global ao covid-19'".

A iniciativa vai ser apresentada publicamente hoje de manhã na Conferência online de doadores organizada pela Comissão Europeia. Portugal associa-se a esta iniciativa.

O primeiro-ministro, António Costa, vai também anunciar hoje na conferência a contribuição pública e privada portuguesa no âmbito da "Resposta global ao covid-19 - conferência de doadores".

António Costa estará pelas 10:00, na Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, em Lisboa, nesta iniciativa que "tem como objetivo reunir esforços de governos, empresários, fundações e cidadãos da União Europeia para recolher 7,5 mil milhões de euros".

Esses 7,5 mil milhões de euros, segundo a Comissão Europeia, destinam-se "a acelerar o desenvolvimento, a produção e o acesso equitativo a vacinas, diagnósticos e tratamentos" da covid-19.

Em comunicado, o Governo português refere que, "além de uma significativa contribuição financeira, juntando o setor público e o privado, os centros nacionais de investigação e desenvolvimento e a indústria farmacêutica estão preparados para integrar parcerias internacionais nas três áreas cobertas pela iniciativa".

No âmbito desta iniciativa "Resposta Global", as parcerias vão desenrolar-se em três fases: "investigação, produção e distribuição".

Ainda de acordo com o executivo, "foram muitas" as instituições e empresas nacionais que se associaram a este movimento, destacando-se a "Sociedade Francisco Manuel do Santos, Jerónimo Martins, EDP, EPAL, Apifarma, Associação Nacional de Farmácias, Banco Santander Totta, BPI, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Millennium BCP e Novo Banco".

Associaram-se ainda, acrescenta o Governo, entidades e empresas como a "Sonae, Galp, Imamat Ismaili, Fundação Champalimaud, CUF, Luz Saúde e Multicare e United Health (Hospital dos Lusíadas)".


-----------------------

APPROXIMATE GOOGLE TRANSLATION

The institution said, in a note, that Imamat Ismaili, an institution led by Aga Khan, "responded to the Portuguese Government's appeal and will contribute 250,000 euros to the 'Global Response to covid-19'".

The initiative will be presented publicly this morning at the online donor conference organized by the European Commission. Portugal joins this initiative.

The Prime Minister, António Costa, will also announce today at the conference the Portuguese public and private contribution within the scope of the "Global response to covid-19 - donors conference".

António Costa will be at 10:00 am, at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, in Lisbon, in this initiative that "aims to bring together the efforts of governments, businessmen, foundations and citizens of the European Union to collect 7.5 billion euros".

These 7.5 billion euros, according to the European Commission, are intended

"to accelerate the development, production and equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatments" of covid-19.

In a statement, the Portuguese Government states that, "in addition to a significant financial contribution, bringing together the public and private sectors, national research and development centers and the pharmaceutical industry are prepared to integrate international partnerships in the three areas covered by the initiative".

As part of this "Global Response" initiative, partnerships will take place in three phases: "research, production and distribution".

Also according to the executive, "there were many" national institutions and companies that joined this movement, especially "Sociedade Francisco Manuel do Santos, Jerónimo Martins, EDP, EPAL, Apifarma, National Pharmacy Association, Banco Santander Totta, BPI, Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian, Millennium BCP and Novo Banco ".

There are also associations, adds the Government, entities and companies such as "Sonae, Galp, Imamat Ismaili, Champalimaud Foundation, CUF, Luz Saúde and Multicare and United Health (Hospital dos Lusíadas)".
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Post by kmaherali »

Admin wrote:250,000 euros
It is 250 million Euros - 250,000,000
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kmaherali wrote:
Admin wrote:250,000 euros
It is 250 million Euros - 250,000,000
No it is not. it is 250,000 Euros - do not rely on translations, they all need to be corrected. "mill" in Portuguese does not come from Anglo Saxon languages, it comes from Latin.
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https://www.msn.com/en-xl/news/other/no ... r-BB1409qN

Noble in deed


The News International

13 May 2020

Celebrated philanthropist and Leader of the Ismaili community His Highness Prince Aga Khan IV has announced a contribution of 250,000 euros to the EU’s ‘Coronavirus Global Response’ initiative at a donor’s conference in Portugal. This conference was held on May 4, 2020 in Lisbon the capital city of Portugal. The president of Portugal resolutely praised the noble work of Prince Karim Aga Khan while addressing the conference.

Prince Aga Khan IV has gained worldwide recognition for his philanthropy and contribution to development and education in poor countries. Prince Karim Aga Khan has been awarded with countless awards, titles and honorary degrees for his marvellous contributions to the humanity. His latest act for the betterment of humanity is laudable and exemplary/

Kamran Khamiso Khowaja

Sujawal
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https://www.dallasweekly.com/articles/m ... n-council/

Mayor Johnson accepts donations from Aga Khan Council

May 14, 2020


The Aga Khan Council for Central United States, a social governance body of the Ismaili Muslim community, will donate 10,000 surgical masks, 10,000 pairs of gloves, and 1,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to the City of Dallas. Those donations will be distributed to City of Dallas first responders and front-line workers.

“Contributing to the quality of life in the communities in which we live and work is part of the core values of the Ismaili Muslim community,” said Nizar Didarali, President of the Aga Khan Council for the Central United States. “Volunteerism and being contributing citizens are at the forefront of what we do. Therefore, donating 10,000 masks, along with gloves and hand sanitizer to the City of Dallas is but a token of our appreciation to the government and first responders who are working to keep us safe and healthy.”

Mayor Johnson will accept the donation at 10:30 a.m. Thursday. Members of Dallas Fire-Rescue and the Dallas Police Department will be on site to accept the donation.

“This donation from the Aga Khan Council for Central United States provides important resources for City of Dallas employees who are bravely working on the front lines of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Johnson said. “The donation also again demonstrates the generosity and strength of our Dallas community in times of crisis.”

At 11 a.m. Thursday at the fire station, Mayor Johnson, on behalf of the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund, will accept a $50,000 check from SMU quarterback Shane Buechele and Paige Vasquez, a Corporate Communications and Events Coordinator for the Dallas Mavericks.

“I was impressed with Shane Buechele’s performance on the field last season for SMU, but I am far more impressed with his commitment to his community here in the city of Dallas,” said Mayor Johnson. “Dallas is a resilient city. We will recover from COVID-19, and the funds raised by Shane and Paige will help us get there.”

Buechele and Vasquez said they decided to raise the money to give back to their community.

“Dallas is home. I grew up here,” Buechele said. “It’s been amazing to see how many people have sent in donations. Everyone wants to help and give back in some way and I’m glad they’re able to do that through the donation page Paige and I started.”

“We are so thankful to be able to hand over this donation to Mayor Johnson, and we appreciate everyone that helped us reach our goal,” Vasquez said.

The Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund committee will meet to decide how the donation will be distributed to help those in need. The Mayor’s committee is chaired by businesswoman and former U.S. Ambassador Jeanne Phillips and includes UT-Southwestern Vice President for Community and Corporate Relations Ruben Esquivel, The Beck Group’s Executive Chairman Peter Beck, City Manager T.C. Broadnax, Mayor Johnson’s Chief of Staff Mary Elbanna, and Matthew Randazzo, the CEO and President of The Dallas Foundation.

To donate to the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund, which is sponsored by The Dallas Foundation, click here. For more information on COVID-19, visit DallasCityHall.com/coronavirus.
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https://nation.com.pk/17-May-2020/anoth ... f-aga-khan
[/b]
Another contribution of Aga Khan

May 17, 2020

Celebrated Philanthropist and Leader of the Shia Ismailia community, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, has contributed 250 million euros to the Global Response to COVID-19 Conference. This conference was held on 4 May 2020 in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. The President of Portugal praised the noble work of Prince Karim Aga Khan while addressing the conference.

The first Muslim Leader to contribute for combating with this flaring epidemic, Prince Karim Aga Khan is known all over the world for His Philanthropy. A development agency, known as Aga Khan Development Network, is working in more than 25 underprivileged countries of the world, including Pakistan. Aga Khan University, Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan Education Services and Aga Khan Rural Support programs are some of the organizations of Aga Khan Development network which are working in Pakistan.

Sir Sultan Mohammad Shah Aga Khan, the Grandfather of Prince Karim Aga Khan, played an active role in Pakistan’s independence. He was of the view that only education can change the destiny of Muslims of the subcontinent as this vision guided him to establish Aligarh Muslim University which was not only the desire of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan but also an indispensable need of Muslims at that time. Whenever the subcontinent came under the onslaught of infectious diseases, he stepped out to support masses in different ways.

After independence, Sir Sultan Mohammad Shah Aga Khan paid a sizable amount of money to Pakistan for procuring Gwadar Port from Oman which is nowadays a beacon of hope for Pakistan’s frail economy as Pakistan has pinned its hope on CPEC.

Prince Karim Aga Khan has been awarded countless awards, titles and honorary degrees for his marvellous contributions to humanity. His yet another move for the sake of humanity is laudable and exemplary.

KAMRAN KHAMISO KHOWAJA,

Sujawal.
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Post by kmaherali »

Global Pandemic Relief Fund

Across the globe, Jamati and AKDN institutions are at the forefront of responding to the Covid-19 pandemic, providing urgent humanitarian assistance, slowing the virus’s spread, caring for the infected, and addressing the broader consequences of the current crisis.

Many generous benefactors have come forward seeking ways to make a contribution towards the wide-ranging work in hand to address the severe effects of the crisis. The Global Pandemic Relief Fund, established in response to this outpouring of generosity, provides a single portal for those wishing to support this critical work.

In collaboration with various international agencies, the Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS), the Aga Khan University (AKU), the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), FOCUS Humanitarian Assistance, and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) have been treating Covid patients, testing suspected cases, and advising national authorities on their responses and preparedness.

Jamati institutions have set up telephone helplines to respond to questions, and have initiated programmes to support senior members of the Jamat and other vulnerable individuals. They have also worked to provide food, medicine, and shelter to those who most need it. In addition, Jamati institutions in all countries, supported by a huge volunteer effort, have rallied to move their programming into the digital space, offering webinars, health and fitness sessions, tutorials, and lectures through online platforms, in order to serve the physical and mental wellbeing needs of the Jamat and beyond.

Donations to the Global Pandemic Relief Fund can help to support this ongoing work, and can make a difference in many ways around the world. Here are more examples of the response efforts by AKDN institutions on the ground thus far.

To contribute to the Global Pandemic Relief Fund, please donate online or contact the following offices:

In Canada:
Aga Khan Foundation Canada
http://www.akfc.ca
Donate online

In the United Kingdom and Europe:
Aga Khan Foundation United Kingdom
www.akf.org.uk
Donate online

In the United States:
Aga Khan Foundation USA
www.akfusa.org
Donate online

All Other Countries:
For other countries, please donate through one of the above offices, or please contact donorservices@akfc.ca to discuss other international giving options.

https://the.ismaili/global/news/institu ... elief-fund
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Post by kmaherali »

Trial to test a treatment option for COVID patients

A new clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of plasma therapy, an emerging form of treatment for the coronavirus, in Pakistani COVID patients is underway at Aga Khan University.

Convalescent plasma therapy involves separating blood donated by previous COVID patients into plasma: a clear straw-coloured liquid that contains antibodies and proteins that help fight infections. The plasma is then injected into a severely ill COVID patient whose immune system may not be able to generate the antibodies needed to combat the virus. A single donation can potentially treat two patients.

There is currently no vaccine for the coronavirus and no approved form of treatment beyond managing its symptoms. The trial will generate evidence on whether plasma therapy, the only experimental treatment currently available for the virus, can help treat those suffering from acute complications from the virus.

Researchers will perform three pre-procedural investigations on each donor to ensure their blood is safe from other infections and to check their suitability for the process of apheresis which collects plasma. Like a typical blood donation, the process is painless after the initial prick and lasts approximately two hours.

Once plasma is transfused into a patient, the team will monitor the response to the treatment and assess its effectiveness through clinical and laboratory tests. Informed consent will be sought from all potential donors as well as those receiving the treatment.

“Plasma therapy can potentially help treat patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 infection,” said Dr Natasha Ali, who is part of a team of six faculty from the departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, and Internal Medicine, working on the trial. “This trial is part of the University’s science-based approach to evaluating novel treatments that can help save lives during this pandemic.”

The University is also participating in Solidarity, the international clinical trial launched by the World Health Organization and its partners, to find effective treatments for the coronavirus.

The study has been approved by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan and Pakistan’s National Bioethics Committee.

https://www.aku.edu/news/Pages/News_Det ... EWS-002197
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A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by mahebubchatur »

Eid Mubarak - A Firman Mubarak from Hazar Imam - #AgaKhan A Summary

1 Noorani Family Joins Hazar Imam in wishing the Jamat Eid Mubarak

2 The Jamats institutions are collaborating with various governments, public authorities and other partners regarding Corona Virus ( These are not shared so far, , but should be shared by the Jamats Institutions like Firmans and the full Ismaili constitution**)

3 The Jamat should take all personal measures to safeguard your own health as recommended by the Government and Jamats Institutions.

4 Hazar Imam blesses all volunteers for “exemplary courage, commitment and dedication in extending care and comfort to my Jamat and others, and especially to those who are vulnerable and sick, (This is “an outstanding actualization of the human values and ethics that all faiths cherish)

5 Jamat should look to the future with hope and courage, in keeping with its age-old tradition of unity, generosity and mutual support which has at all times enabled it to move forward to a position of enhanced strength and resilience, from generation to generation.

6 The principles of our faith will bring peace and solace in these times of uncertainty.
“I am with my Jamat at all times, and each of you, individually, is always in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers.”

7 He send “my most affectionate paternal, maternal loving blessings to all my Jamat - for happiness, good health, confidence and security in your lives ahead, and for mushkil-asan.

** http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 04187/?d=n

https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... 3-may-2020
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Message received from Mowlana Shah Karim on the occasion of the 2020 Eid.

https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... 3-may-2020

23 May 2020

My beloved spiritual children,

On the occasion of Eid ul-Fitr, I send my special loving blessings to my Jamats throughout the world for your happiness, peace, safety, and good health. My family joins me in wishing you all Eid Mubarak.

As the Jamati and AKDN institutions continue their collaboration with various governments, public health authorities and other partners in the endeavor to overcome the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, I would like my spiritual children to continue to exercise the utmost rigor in undertaking all personal measures to safeguard your own health, as recommended by the public health authorities and my Institutions.

At this difficult time, I applaud, with the highest admiration and gratefulness, the selfless services of all my Jamati volunteers, as well as the doctors, nurses, paramedics and support workers in the AKDN and other health facilities and related programmes: Their exemplary courage, commitment and dedication in extending care and comfort to my Jamat and others, and especially to those who are vulnerable and sick, is an outstanding actualization of the human values and ethics that all faiths cherish.

It is my wish that my Jamat should look to the future with hope and courage, in keeping with its age-old tradition of unity, generosity and mutual support which has at all times enabled it to move forward to a position of enhanced strength and resilience, from generation to generation.

My spiritual children should always remain mindful that it is the principles of our faith that will bring peace and solace in these times of uncertainty. I am with my Jamat at all times, and each of you, individually, is always in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers.

I send my most affectionate paternal, maternal loving blessings to all my Jamat - for happiness, good health, confidence and security in your lives ahead, and for mushkil-asan.

Yours affectionately,

Aga Khan
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Re: A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by mahebubchatur »

mahebubchatur wrote:Eid Mubarak - A Firman Mubarak from Hazar Imam - #AgaKhan A Summary

1 Noorani Family Joins Hazar Imam in wishing the Jamat Eid Mubarak

2 The Jamats institutions are collaborating with various governments, public authorities and other partners regarding Corona Virus ( These are not shared so far, , but should be shared by the Jamats Institutions like Firmans and the full Ismaili constitution**)

3 The Jamat should take all personal measures to safeguard your own health as recommended by the Government and Jamats Institutions.

4 Hazar Imam blesses all volunteers for “exemplary courage, commitment and dedication in extending care and comfort to my Jamat and others, and especially to those who are vulnerable and sick, (This is “an outstanding actualization of the human values and ethics that all faiths cherish)

5 Jamat should look to the future with hope and courage, in keeping with its age-old tradition of unity, generosity and mutual support which has at all times enabled it to move forward to a position of enhanced strength and resilience, from generation to generation.

6 The principles of our faith will bring peace and solace in these times of uncertainty.
“I am with my Jamat at all times, and each of you, individually, is always in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers.”

7 And He sends “my most affectionate paternal, maternal loving blessings to all my Jamat - for happiness, good health, confidence and security in your lives ahead, and for mushkil-asan.

** http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 04187/?d=n

https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... 3-may-2020

Some Murids (believers) requested a copy of this signed Firman of Hazar Imam #AgaKhan, for verification and for it to be posted online too.

See below the reply from the Top Leadership and further request to them. A response has not been received so far.

To LIF - Executive Board and Members ( by email cfc@talib.ca & LIF@iis.ac.uk

Malik Talib , Chairman of LIF, replied to a Murid below who asked for a copy of the signed Firmann they posted online (calling it a message from Hazar Imam, not a Firman or a Talika. They are quoting parts of it on a newsletter to make them look good ? - see below)

What Malik Talib did NOT do is to send a copy of the signed Firman to this Murid , or to say why he cannot upload a signed copy.

However he cleverly indicates to make us believe, that Hazar Imam has told him to post only the text of this Firman online. We know cannot be true. (Read what he says)

When anyone asks to verify, including and especially a Firman they have a duty to prove to the Jamat/Murid that it is from the Imam and authentic verbatim. (Read Imam’s Farmans on seeking reliable and accurate facts & information including his Firmans - to avoid misinformation and not to mislead - links below)

There can be no question that, (like in the lawsuit in which Malik was involved as VP at the time ), OR
Was this Firman dictated by Hazar Imam to the LIF/ Malik/Sachedina Other. And did Hazar Imam say not to give a signed copy but post to it , & as a message, not a Firman or Talika.

If this was dictated by Hazar Imam and they LIF/ DJI do not have a signed copy. Then they should say us that it was dictated, and to whom it was dictated (Malik as LIF CEO or Shafik or Other) and whetted it was verbatim, when and did Hazar Imam say to only post the text , and as a message on TheIsmaili, not a Firman or Talika. And did Hazar Imam say anything else?

Malik replied to this Murid but not to others who have written to him. Why not to all.

I look forward to a response from Malik. Can he also read the Forman’s/ Links below and tell us clearly about this and the last Firman. And I repeat my requests for the full constitution and access to all Forman’s. If I do not receive a response I will as before share, and say there was no response to this request too.

Mahebub

Links

https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 78567?s=21

https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 58346?s=21

  http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
 

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Related Updates

http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... highlight=


Reply from M Talib LIF

From: Malik Z.Talib <Malik.Talib-LIF@iis.ac.uk>
Date: Mon, 25 May 2020 at 18:01
Subject: Re: Talika Mubarak - 23rd May 2020
To: RJ Taz Min <tazmin3663@gmail.com>

Dear Farez, Tazmina and Zafeera,
 
Eid Mubarak with my best wishes for you and your family.
Thank you for your good wishes.
 
Referring to your comment regarding substantiation, you will understand as devout murids that Mawlana Hazar Imam has the sole and supreme authority to choose the timing, form and method of conveying messages to the Jamat.
 
It is up to us to be sincere, humble and grateful in receiving the blessings of the messages that Mawla is pleased to bestow in whatever manner he chooses.
 
With Ya Ali Madad,
 
Malik

And, The UK Council are Quoting parts of the Eid Firman as a message on the UK Newsletter - Media Al Saha UK - 26 May 2020 “As the Jamati and AKDN institutions continue their collaboration with various governments, public health authorities and other partners in the endeavour to overcome the challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic, I would like my spiritual children to continue to exercise the utmost rigour in undertaking all personal measures to safeguard your own health, as recommended by the public health authorities and my Institutions “
mahebubchatur
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Re: A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by mahebubchatur »

mahebubchatur wrote:
mahebubchatur wrote:Eid Mubarak - A Firman Mubarak from Hazar Imam - #AgaKhan A Summary

1 Noorani Family Joins Hazar Imam in wishing the Jamat Eid Mubarak

2 The Jamats institutions are collaborating with various governments, public authorities and other partners regarding Corona Virus ( These are not shared so far, , but should be shared by the Jamats Institutions like Firmans and the full Ismaili constitution**)

3 The Jamat should take all personal measures to safeguard your own health as recommended by the Government and Jamats Institutions.

4 Hazar Imam blesses all volunteers for “exemplary courage, commitment and dedication in extending care and comfort to my Jamat and others, and especially to those who are vulnerable and sick, (This is “an outstanding actualization of the human values and ethics that all faiths cherish)

5 Jamat should look to the future with hope and courage, in keeping with its age-old tradition of unity, generosity and mutual support which has at all times enabled it to move forward to a position of enhanced strength and resilience, from generation to generation.

6 The principles of our faith will bring peace and solace in these times of uncertainty.
“I am with my Jamat at all times, and each of you, individually, is always in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers.”

7 And He sends “my most affectionate paternal, maternal loving blessings to all my Jamat - for happiness, good health, confidence and security in your lives ahead, and for mushkil-asan.

** http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf

https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 04187/?d=n

https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... 3-may-2020

Some Murids (believers) requested a copy of this signed Firman of Hazar Imam #AgaKhan, for verification and for it to be posted online too.

See below the reply from the Top Leadership and further request to them. A response has not been received so far.

To LIF - Executive Board and Members ( by email cfc@talib.ca & LIF@iis.ac.uk

Malik Talib , Chairman of LIF, replied to a Murid below who asked for a copy of the signed Firmann they posted online (calling it a message from Hazar Imam, not a Firman or a Talika. They are quoting parts of it on a newsletter to make them look good ? - see below)

What Malik Talib did NOT do is to send a copy of the signed Firman to this Murid , or to say why he cannot upload a signed copy.

However he cleverly indicates to make us believe, that Hazar Imam has told him to post only the text of this Firman online. We know cannot be true. (Read what he says)

When anyone asks to verify, including and especially a Firman they have a duty to prove to the Jamat/Murid that it is from the Imam and authentic verbatim. (Read Imam’s Farmans on seeking reliable and accurate facts & information including his Firmans - to avoid misinformation and not to mislead - links below)

There can be no question that, (like in the lawsuit in which Malik was involved as VP at the time ), OR
Was this Firman dictated by Hazar Imam to the LIF/ Malik/Sachedina Other. And did Hazar Imam say not to give a signed copy but post to it , & as a message, not a Firman or Talika.

If this was dictated by Hazar Imam and they LIF/ DJI do not have a signed copy. Then they should say us that it was dictated, and to whom it was dictated (Malik as LIF CEO or Shafik or Other) and whetted it was verbatim, when and did Hazar Imam say to only post the text , and as a message on TheIsmaili, not a Firman or Talika. And did Hazar Imam say anything else?

Malik replied to this Murid but not to others who have written to him. Why not to all.

I look forward to a response from Malik. Can he also read the Forman’s/ Links below and tell us clearly about this and the last Firman. And I repeat my requests for the full constitution and access to all Forman’s. If I do not receive a response I will as before share, and say there was no response to this request too.

Mahebub

Links

https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 78567?s=21

https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 58346?s=21

  http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
 

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Related Updates

http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... highlight=


Reply from M Talib LIF

From: Malik Z.Talib <Malik.Talib-LIF@iis.ac.uk>
Date: Mon, 25 May 2020 at 18:01
Subject: Re: Talika Mubarak - 23rd May 2020
To: RJ Taz Min <tazmin3663@gmail.com>

Dear Farez, Tazmina and Zafeera,
 
Eid Mubarak with my best wishes for you and your family.
Thank you for your good wishes.
 
Referring to your comment regarding substantiation, you will understand as devout murids that Mawlana Hazar Imam has the sole and supreme authority to choose the timing, form and method of conveying messages to the Jamat.
 
It is up to us to be sincere, humble and grateful in receiving the blessings of the messages that Mawla is pleased to bestow in whatever manner he chooses.
 
With Ya Ali Madad,
 
Malik

And, The UK Council are Quoting parts of the Eid Firman as a message on the UK Newsletter - Media Al Saha UK - 26 May 2020 “As the Jamati and AKDN institutions continue their collaboration with various governments, public health authorities and other partners in the endeavour to overcome the challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic, I would like my spiritual children to continue to exercise the utmost rigour in undertaking all personal measures to safeguard your own health, as recommended by the public health authorities and my Institutions “

Further letter and reply from 3 Murids to me & Malik Talib #LIF Chairman

On 26 May 2020, at 20:09, RJ Taz Min <&#8234;tazmin3663@gmail.com&#8236;> wrote:

Indeed your questions are valid and deserve a proper response. 

What President Talib wrote to us was cleverly designed to put us in our places. Who are we to question the leaders? And as usual, they have intimated that questioning the leaders is equivalent to questioning the Imam Himself . Is that really fair? 

Truly we are very disappointed with this attitude of the senior most leadership. Believe it or not,  it is no skin off our noses! 

Surely, we have the right to confirm the authenticity of a Sandesha Mubarak that just suddenly appears on a website without any kind of evidence  as to it’s origin. 

But the leaders do not like to be questioned, which in itself is highly suspect. 
As far as we are concerned, we cannot believe any such posted communication as being from the Imam as the leaders have not shown willingness towards transparency, which casts a dark shadow over what should be moments of immense joy and jubilation. 

With Ya Ali Madad 
Farez Tazmin and Zafeera 

Awaiting a response from LIF/M Talib
kmaherali
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Re: A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by kmaherali »

mahebubchatur wrote: As far as we are concerned, we cannot believe any such posted communication as being from the Imam as the leaders have not shown willingness towards transparency, which casts a dark shadow over what should be moments of immense joy and jubilation. 

With Ya Ali Madad 
Farez Tazmin and Zafeera 

Awaiting a response from LIF/M Talib
Do the Talikas distributed and read out in JKs have the Imam's signature on them?
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Re: A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by Admin »

kmaherali wrote: Do the Talikas distributed and read out in JKs have the Imam's signature on them?
Actually in the old time, they were sent by telegram and obviously they had no signature. You can not sign a Talika in a telegram but they mentioned "Signed - Aga Khan" Then came the time of the Telex machine which also sent alphabet printed in a line machine and obviously Talikas were not signed. I remember when the fax machine was invented all Telex machines were sold for $25 and nobody wanted to buy them so most institutions threw them.

But when the Fax machine came, immediately Mowlana Hazar Imam started sending SIGNED Talikas.

It is only later after some people took control of the Secretariat that things changed and Talikas were reproduced without signature before being released through National Councils. A case in point is the 21 March Talika whose text was recycled and sentence added then reproduced as Talika on 27th March and then another paragraph added and released as Talika dated 29 March on The.Ismaili

So there are legitimate worries. I am not saying that any of the changes are illegitimate, the Talika may have come complete on 21st March and released slowly bit by bit. What I am saying is that Imam said he does not change it so at the least explanation would be welcome on why a Talika is publicly released on the internet for all Ismailis and non-Ismailis to read and there is no signature when it is so easy to reproduce a pdf with signature.

However I support your point of view that signatures are not necessary nor do they prove anything.

As a matter of concern there are several independent forensic experts in USA and Canada that have proved that Imam's signature has been forged in purporting official documents so the only point which needs to be addressed is that everyone should work with integrity, answerability, accountability, transparency as asked by our Imam and while answerability was from institutions to the Imam in the pre 1986 Ismaili Constitution, it is no longer the case as multiple Farmans that have followed have put the burden on the Jamat to get answerability and accountability from leadership for reasons best known to the Imam. We do not question the Imam, it is his entire prerogative to switch answerability and accountability to the jamat..
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Re: A Firman by Hazar Imam - Eid Ul Fitr

Post by kmaherali »

Admin wrote: However I support your point of view that signatures are not necessary nor do they prove anything.
Then how else can Malik prove the authenticity of the message as having come from the Imam?

At the time when we should be seeking to strengthen unity within the Jamat, I don't think it serves any purpose to highlight the divisive issues and create the atmosphere of distrust.
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Post by Admin »

As I said it is Imam's prerogative to put the burden of accountability and answerability to whomever he wills. These are difficult time when we all need support from the Jamat and unity in the Jamat but we should not forget Imam's Farmans in difficult times because without Farmans we are nothing but dust.
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Post by kmaherali »

If things are wrong or if there is any reason to seek accountability then we have to exercise our responsibilities as murids to do so. However in my opinion based on the message itself, there is no reason to seek accountability.
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Post by mahebubchatur »

Admin wrote:As I said it is Imam's prerogative to put the burden of accountability and answerability to whomever he wills. These are difficult time when we all need support from the Jamat and unity in the Jamat but we should not forget Imam's Farmans in difficult times because without Farmans we are nothing but dust.
Hazar Imam #AgaKhan has asked all Murids to be his Dais and to seek & verify information & facts including Firmans, which are shared , and which Imam also wants them to be shared given to all Murids.

If Imam wished to do things or anything himself , he would not ask Murids to do so. Imam knows and knows best including our Niyat. It is essential to understand the role and authority of Imam and how ig is exercised - Most do not know because Firmans and related facts were blocked. see link below.

Two New Talikas from Hazar Imam. I have asked the Leadership to clarify For copies and verify. They have not responded so far.

“At this time of Eid, I afford with the greatest admiration and gratefulness, the selfless service of all the volunteers doctors nurses paramedics and support workers in the AKDN, for their exemplary dedication and commitment in extending care and comfort to the vulnerable and the sick, is an outstanding actualisation of the human values and ethics that all faiths cherish”  (Hazar Imam)

Ya Ali Madad - Mubaraki to All.  Hazar Imam has sent the following Mubarak Talika to all the Management teams l, the staff & front line workers  (who therefore  include teachers, doctors nurses cleaners, delivery teams, and all the essential and ancillary public, government, private and civil society, service providers) 

“I wish to acknowledge all the efforts the university is making to care for patients and save lives during this covid19 pandemic, I would like to convey my greatest admiration to all the staff and front line workers for their exceptional commitment and bravery  I extend to them my very best wishes for their safety and wellbeing “ (Hazar Imam)

This has been communicated by Firoz Rasul as a quote in a video clip - (see link below) 

Has Hazar Imam sent other such  Talika’s (messages) to our other Institutions and or others?  Can all these be shared with all the Jamats (like the other 2 which have been by posted online by M Talib/LIF) 

The Aga Khan University covid19 mission & watch words is “Stay strong and emerge stronger”

The Video
https://view.vzaar.com/21593698/player

Role and Authority of Imam e Zaman http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9224
Indigo
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Post by Indigo »

kmaherali wrote:If things are wrong or if there is any reason to seek accountability then we have to exercise our responsibilities as murids to do so. However in my opinion based on the message itself, there is no reason to seek accountability.
I respectfully beg to differ. The very first message was changed in format immediately after queries were raised and this raised even further doubts. The said messages are not in our Imam’s distinguished lexis and it should not be taken that such questions should not be asked in order to maintain equilibrium and unity. Furthermore, it is the leaders who are creating disunity by not giving straightforward answers to such questions. I cannot fathom why they are showing so much resentment in this issue. Can you?
With regards to Talika Mubaraks in Jamatkhanas, special messages always bear the Imam’s signature. I have always confirmed this myself with Jamati Mukhisahebs. There are some Talika Mubaraks which are sent without the Imam’s signature. But whenever there is a special message, it is always on the Imam’s crest and with the signature.

For example: The message sent during the Westgate Crisis in Nairobi were shared on the internet in its proper format. ie on Imam’s letterhead and with the Imam’s signature. At that time the Imam was on a visit to India and yet His message came as stated above.

All this aside, why are the leaders refusing to answer such queries with transparency and acting, in my opinion, furtively? That is and should be the main point of concern. Murids asking questions want to clear their own doubts and do not have the intention, in my opinion, to disrupt unity in any way.

And it is also important to consider that Imam has maintained His lexis for over 6 decades now. So how is it that His wordings are suddenly changing in style and format during this crisis? In my humble opinion, these are all valid concerns. And the reaction of the leaders is highly suspect.
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Post by Admin »

https://akipress.com/news:643014:USAID, ... _COVID-19/

Tajikistan |health |June 5, 2020 / 05:12 PM

USAID, Aga Khan Foundation provide $2.6 million to Tajikistan to combat COVID-19

AKIPRESS.COM - The U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) are initiating a combined $2.6 million response to COVID-19 in Tajikistan over the next twelve months, the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe said.

USAID and AKF will work to improve care for patients, especially for the severely and critically ill, create employment opportunities, provide food support for the most vulnerable, and educate communities about COVID-19 to help reduce the spread of the virus. This brings the total direct U.S. government contribution to support Tajikistan’s efforts to combat COVID-19 to more than $5 million.

While USAID health programs focus primarily in western Tajikistan, AKF’s sister agency, Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) operates the largest health care facility in eastern Tajikistan as well as other clinics and a network of community health programs. To improve care in facilities treating patients with COVID-19 in this remote region of the country, USAID is partnering with AKHS and AKF to train health workers on infection control, use of personal protective equipment, waste disposal, and other ways to combat the virus. AKHS will also improve their capacity to diagnose and treat the virus and ensure that facilities are prepared to manage and treat larger numbers of infected patients.

With increased U.S. assistance, AKF and Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) will be better able to increase awareness about how to protect community members, such as improving access to handwashing facilities. Following guidelines by the Tajikistan Ministry of Health, AKAH and AKF will use social media, leaflets, other printed materials, and community-led informational sessions to disseminate accurate and timely information to help communities better protect themselves. AKF and AKAH will also distribute nutritious food and sanitary kits to the most vulnerable members of society. This will be complemented by AKF’s efforts to protect community and frontline health workers through the production of personal protective equipment alongside government and private sector partners.
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https://www.the-star.co.ke/sasa/lifesty ... ona-fears/


Healthcare continuity despite corona fears
We must create a new normalcy — that of living with Covid-19


In Summary

• We cannot restrict patient care to only that of Covid-19 patients

by Dr Majid Twahir
Lifestyle
06 June 2020 - 03:00



My personal opinion is that Covid-19 is probably here with us for the next 12 to 18 months. That is, until we have a vaccine. I applaud the government’s efforts. We, as a country, have managed to slow down the curve and the numbers of Covid-19 patients are coming in at a manageable rate.

However, we cannot restrict patient care to only that of Covid-19 patients. We also cannot wait for post-Covid-19 period to resume normalcy. We must create a new normalcy — that of living with Covid-19. This is the environment where we co-exist with Covid-19 in the safest manner for doctors and other hospital workers, patients and visitors to the hospital.

Postponed surgeries



For those who have postponed treatments, surgeries, procedures, vaccinations and clinics, it is important to rethink this decision. There is a clinical reason why your physician had made your patient care plan anyway. Don’t wait until the patient becomes an emergency. Rather, seek care in a safe environment. The priority for healthcare providers should be safety first.

At Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi we are cognisant of this fact and have taken a raft of measures to ensure a safe environment for continued care of all patients (both those with Covid-19 and others). We are a not a Covid-19 hospital. We are a general hospital that has taken all measures possible to ensure we attend to all patients in a safe environment, while taking care of Covid-19 patients safely.

On a normal day, safety at the hospital or any of our outreach centres is our highest priority. Now with Covid-19 reality, we are even more vigilant. We have a dedicated team of housekeeping staff who are decontaminating and sterilising the hospital areas and equipment continuously. All patients, visitors, doctors and employees are screened upon entry and their temperature measured. They are also required to wear masks. We are also ensuring that everyone is practising distancing and have set up additional waiting areas to facilitate this.

Safety of healthcare workers

The risk of infection of healthcare workers has been a thorn in the flesh for many countries. This calls on the government and healthcare providers to put measures in place to ensure the safety of our first line of defense. If they are not well protected, then our response as a nation is compromised.

For us at AKUH, staff safety is our highest priority and we have provided the necessary personal protective equipment, training and psychosocial support for all our staff. To further enhance their safety and other patients, we are have introduced a free of charge Covid-19 testing for all patients who are admitted to the Hospital for surgery or other procedures, including maternity. This will enable us determine the best approach to care for our patients including the use of PPEs during their stay in the Hospital, hence enhance the safety of patients and caregivers.

Even as the world deals with this pandemic, pregnant women still require their ante-natal care. Children need to be on schedule for their vaccinations, emergencies need to be attended to, people living with chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, cancer and others still require access to physicians, for continuity of care. We, therefore, must learn the new normal and provide care safely. If we fail to do so, we risk an even bigger healthcare crisis in the near future.



Dr Majid Twahir is the Associate Dean, Clinical Services, and Chief of Staff at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi
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Post by Admin »

https://www.dawn.com/news/1561384


Pakistan to be part of global antiviral research initiative


Faiza Ilyas
Updated June 05, 2020


KARACHI: Institutions in the US, Brazil, Pakistan, Senegal, South Africa and Taiwan will collaborate under a grant that seeks to develop the United World for Antiviral Research Network (UWARN) — a vital global research initiative into infectious diseases and pandemics.

The $8.75 million grant spread over five years has been awarded to the University of Washington (UW) and its partners, including the Aga Khan University (AKU), by the US National Institutes of Health’s Centers for Research in Emerging Infectious Diseases (CREID).

UWARN — one of 10 centres in the CREID Network which has multidisciplinary teams of investigators spread over 30 countries — will help in the race to identify potential pandemic viruses, develop the urgently needed diagnostic tools and drugs that work against a range of pathogens, and expand understanding of the body’s immune responses to viruses.

Several AKU faculty will be involved in the project. Najeeha Talat Iqbal, from the paediatrics and child health and biological and biomedical sciences department is the principal investigator for Pakistan.
Article continues after ad

Dr Farah Qamar and Dr Ali Faisal from paediatrics and child health, and Professor Erum Khan from pathology and laboratory medicine are co-investigators on the project.

WHO had identified in 2018 a priority list of viruses for which no vaccines and drugs were available

Such large-scale global collaborations, according to AKU experts, are becoming all the more necessary to combat diseases, known and unknown.
‘Disease X’

Just two years ago, in 2018, the World Health Organisation had identified a priority list of viruses for which no vaccines and drugs were available. It included “Disease X”, a stand-in for pathogens yet unknown that could cause a serious international epidemic; Covid-19 is exactly the type of threat that Disease X was meant to represent.

“Pandemics are becoming an increasingly frequent threat to public health in the ... developing world,” said Prof Asad Ali, associate dean for research at AKU. “We need to deepen our understanding of emerging infectious diseases in order to prevent the emergence of new viruses from becoming pandemics that threaten our way of life.”

UWARN researchers will be looking to advance innovative approaches to laboratory diagnosis, including identifying reagents for antibody tests that detect antibodies in the blood in order to diagnose an active or previous infection.

Another approach would be through ‘designed proteins’ that release light when antibodies are present in the blood, using technology developed by UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design.

The group will also work to improve understanding of how viruses manipulate the human immune system, facilitating development of better blood biomarkers to predict the severity of diseases as well as drugs that could improve outcomes for patients with viral infections.

The CREID network will be coordinated by the Research Triangle Institute, a large non-profit research organisation with regional and project offices in over 75 countries, and Duke University known for its cutting-edge medical research and home to the Duke Human Vaccine Institute.

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2020
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Post by Admin »

https://reliefweb.int/report/world/usai ... t-covid-19

USAID and The Aga Khan foundation provide $2.6 million in assistance to combat to covid-19

Sources: AKAH USAID

Posted: 6 Jun 2020



Dushanbe, Tajikistan, June 5, 2020

The U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) are initiating a combined $2.6 million response to COVID-19 in Tajikistan over the next twelve months. USAID and AKF will work to improve care for patients, especially for the severely and critically ill, create employment opportunities, provide food support for the most vulnerable, and educate communities about COVID-19 to help reduce the spread of the virus. This brings the total direct U.S. government contribution to support Tajikistan’s efforts to combat COVID-19 to more than $5 million.

While USAID health programs focus primarily in western Tajikistan, AKF’s sister agency, Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) operates the largest health care facility in eastern Tajikistan as well as other clinics and a network of community health programs. To improve care in facilities treating patients with COVID-19 in this remote region of the country, USAID is partnering with AKHS and AKF to train health workers on infection control, use of personal protective equipment, waste disposal, and other ways to combat the virus. AKHS will also improve their capacity to diagnose and treat the virus and ensure that facilities are prepared to manage and treat larger numbers of infected patients.

With increased U.S. assistance, AKF and Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) will be better able to increase awareness about how to protect community members, such as improving access to handwashing facilities. Following guidelines by the Tajikistan Ministry of Health, AKAH and AKF will use social media, leaflets, other printed materials, and community-led informational sessions to disseminate accurate and timely information to help communities better protect themselves. AKF and AKAH will also distribute nutritious food and sanitary kits to the most vulnerable members of society. This will be complemented by AKF’s efforts to protect community and frontline health workers through the production of personal protective equipment alongside government and private sector partners.
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