World literature suggests salivary gland tumors account for less than 3% of the head and neck tumors and benign pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary glands arising de novo is very rare. Objective, case report and conclusion: A case of pleomorphic adenoma of minor salivary glands in the buccal mucosa in a 55 year-old female is discussed. It includes review of literature, clinical features, histopathology, radiological findings and treatment of the tumor, with emphasis on diagnosis. The salivary glands may present with a diverse range of lesions presenting a challenge to even the most experienced clinician and pathologist. Resection with surrounding dispensable normal tissues is the key to successful treatment of such tumors.

Omicron, the new ‘Variant of Concern’ of SARS-CoV-2, is rapidly evolving into new sub-variants or sub-lineages (BA.1, BA.2 etc.). These sub-variants have higher transmissibility, decreased vaccine effectiveness and increased risk of reinfection. As a result, many nations across the globe are reporting surge in infections which is a matter of concern. Understanding Omicron and its sub-variants is vital for development of public health policy and preventing disease transmission. The present paper throws a spotlight on the newly detected sub-variants of Omicron as reported in ongoing researches which are available only in pre-print form and also the importance of a booster dose of the vaccine. Information regarding recent research on a new nasal vaccine formulation, which may be effective against the new variants, is also highlighted in the paper.

INTRODUCTION. In the present times, natural and man-made threats have questioned our existence on this planet. Health care professionals need to be aware of all the procedures to follow during such an event that threatens to paralyze the entire community and should be able to respond effectively. OBJECTIVE. The present study was conducted to assess the willingness and attitude of dental professionals to render help during any disaster or catastrophic event. MATERIAL AND METHODS. The present cross-sectional study among 480 subjects who were residing in Tricity (Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula). Informed consent was taken from all the subjects. Systematic random sampling methodology was employed for selection for study sample. The study utilized a self-designed close-ended questionnaire written in English and verified by experts. The questionnaire was divided into two parts to collect the required information. The data was analyzed using SPSS software version 21; chi-square test and multiple regression analysis were used to arrive at the results. RESULTS. More than 85% of subjects had awareness regarding natural and manmade disasters. A positive response was given by 79.2% of subjects regarding willingness to help during disaster. Educational qualification of subjects was significantly associated with attitude towards some aspects of disaster response (p<0.05). Postgraduate subjects and subjects who were academicians were more willing to render help (OR: 2.18 & 3.65 respectively). CONCLUSIONS. The study emphasizes the need for educational and training programs for dentists’ regarding disaster management. A short course on emergency and disaster management can be included in undergraduate and postgraduate dental curriculum.