Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has been reported in one-third of women worldwide at different life stages, due to the complex balance in the ecology of the vaginal microbiota. It is a common cause of abnormal vaginal discharge and is associated with other health issues. Since the first description of anaerobic microbes associated with BV like Gardnerella vaginalis in the 1950s, researchers have stepped up the game by incorporating advanced molecular tools to monitor and evaluate the extent of dysbiosis within the vaginal microbiome, particularly on how specific microbial population changes compared to a healthy state. Moreover, treatment failure and BV recurrence rate remain high despite the standard antibiotic treatment. Consequently, researchers have been probing into alternative or adjunct treatments, including probiotics or even vaginal microbiota transplants, to ensure successful treatment outcomes and reduce the colonization by pathogenic microbes of the female reproductive tract. The current review summarizes the latest findings in probiotics use for BV and explores the potential of vaginal microbiota transplants in restoring vaginal health.

The war against COVID-19 is still ongoing since the first report in December 2019. On 1st May 2021, India has reported over 400,000 new COVID-19 cases within 24 hours. The situation in the country continued to progress, which was associated with the reporting of the variant-of-concern and the variant-of-interest, including the B1.617 viruses. The government has taken public health measures, including campaigns to increase awareness about mask-wearing and physical distancing as well as lockdown plans to prevent further spread of the disease in the densely populated country. Furthermore, the countrywide vaccination program has begun in early 2021, while the government of India continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation in the country. The current review aims to provide a brief situation report in India before discussing management strategies taken and different phases of the vaccination program.

The report evaluates the effect of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on breast cancer treatment and management at a single-surgeon cancer care unit in one of the hotspots of COVID-19 in India. In response to the pandemic, the adjustments were made in the clinical practice to accommodate social distancing. Patient consultations were done over phone call or in-clinic visit with prior appointment to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Total number of patients that were treated at the clinic and the essential surgeries performed during the pandemic phases are summarized in the report. The methodology adopted here for care and management of the cancer patients can serve as a guiding principle for cancer care units in the country.

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