National A.F.M. Day, observed on September 23, is dedicated to raising awareness about acute flaccid myelitis (A.F.M.) — a serious condition of the spinal cord including symptoms like the rapid onset of arm or leg weakness and decreased reflexes, difficulty moving the eyes, speaking, and sometimes swallowing. On certain occasions, patients may experience numbness or pain. Complications resulting from A.F.M. could include trouble breathing. As of 2018, the cause of most A.F.M. cases was still unknown and unclear. More than 90% of recent cases have developed after a mild viral infection such as from enteroviruses.
Fast of Ninth of Av
The Fast of Ninth of Av — also known as the Jewish Fast of Av or ‘Tisha B’Av’ — is observed in July or August every year and this year, it falls on August 3. It’s an annual holiday observed in Jewish communities across the world. It is a somber period where people fast, mourn, and pray to commemorate five major tragic events that occurred on the day in the past. The Fast of Ninth of Av commences just before sunset on the previous day and lasts until nightfall the next day — totaling about 25 hours. Whenever Tisha B’Av falls on Shabbat (Saturday), it’s called a ‘nidche’ in Hebrew (‘delayed’) and the day is then observed on the following day (that is, Sunday). Since it’s a day of mourning and fasting, Jews abstain from partying, sexual activities, bathing or washing, eating meat or drinking wine (except on the Shabbat), and cutting their hair.
National Rock Day
National Rock Day, celebrated on July 13 every year, is all about paying tribute to rocks. And no, we are not talking about extravagant rock music and rock concerts with guitars and a raving audience — we are talking about literal rocks! Did you know that rocks are not simply rocks and that all the rocks you know fall into three categories — igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic? Did you also know that the study of rocks is known as geology? If you’re a budding geologist and looking to pursue a degree in the field have a look at these science scholarships. See just how much there is to know about rocks. That’s what makes International Rock Day so special. Read on to know more.