Health Archives National Voice Gazette
WHO’s Alert. The World Health Organization (WHO) has produced a pandemic plan with these stages of alert:
Interpandemic Period
Phase 1 - No new type A influenza subtypes detected in humans.
Phase 2 - No new type A subtypes in humans, subtypes in animals pose substantial risk of human disease.
Pandemic Alert Period
Phase 3 - Human infectious with new subtype, but no human to human spread.
Phase 4 - Small clusters of human-to-human transmission, but spread highly localized.
Phase 5 - Large clusters of human-to-human transmission, but geographically limited.
Pandemic Period
Phase 6 - Increased and sustained transmission in the general population.
Post-Pandemic Period
Return to the interpandemic period.
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See video about:
Swine Flu Outbreak
Downloads
PDF Manuel- Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet
Swine Flu Virus Infections in Pigs and Humans
Swine Flu Audio
National Pork Board Provides Facts about the Origin of the Flu Outbreak
DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The flu virus infecting humans has not been identified in hogs in the United States or anywhere in the world.
As of April 27, 2009, the Government of Mexico has reported 18 laboratory confirmed human cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 infection. At this time, CDC recommends that U.S. travelers avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico.
Swine Flu - CDC is releasing antiviral drugs
Atlanta 4 27 09 - CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the agency's response to this emerging health threat and yesterday the Secretary of the Department Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, declared a public health emergency in the United States.
CDC's Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) is releasing one-quarter of its antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to help states respond to the outbreak. Laboratory testing has found the swine influenza A (H1N1) virus susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available.
Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States. Human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection also have been identified internationally. The current U.S. case count is provided below.
President Barack Obama told the National Academy of Sciences today the emerging incidence of swine flu in the United States “is obviously a cause for concern and requires a heightened state of alert, but it’s not a cause for alarm.”
The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed 40 cases of swine flu virus infection in the United States in California, Kansas, New York City, Ohio and Texas. Greater cases of infections have been reported internationally, particularly in Mexico.
Obama said HHS has declared a public health emergency only “as a precautionary tool to ensure that we have the resources we need at our disposal to respond quickly and effectively.” HHS, the CDC and the Department of Homeland Security will provide the American people regular updates about steps being taken and precautions that may be required, he said .
Meanwhile, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director John Berry distributed CDC guidelines for preventing the spread of swine flu to the federal work force. Berry also distributed guidance for federal agencies to protect their work forces and the public and to ensure continuity of operations in the event that they must institute their already-prepared pandemic influenza preparedness plans.
CDC recommends the following actions people can take to stay healthy:
-- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
-- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
-- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
CDC also recommends avoiding close contact with sick people, particularly if they are coughing or sneezing, and to stay home if you’re sick to avoid infecting others.
Antiviral Drugs
Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) with activity against influenza viruses, including swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs can be used to treat swine flu or to prevent infection with swine flu viruses. These medications must be prescribed by a health care professional. Influenza antiviral drugs only work against influenza viruses -- they will not help treat or prevent symptoms caused by infection from other viruses that can cause symptoms similar to the flu.
There are four influenza antiviral drugs approved for use in the United States (oseltamivir, zanamivir, amantadine and rimantadine). The swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses that have been detected in humans in the United States and Mexico are resistant to amantadine and rimantadine so these drugs will not work against these swine influenza viruses. Laboratory testing on these swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses so far indicate that they are susceptible (sensitive) to oseltamivir and zanamivir.
Treatment: If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious influenza complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started as soon after getting sick as possible, and might not work if started more than 48 hours after illness starts.
Prevention: Influenza antiviral drugs also can be used to prevent influenza when they are given to a person who is not ill, but who has been or may be near a person with swine influenza. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70% to 90% effective. When used for prevention, the number of days that they should be used will vary depending on a person’s particular situation.
Worldwide Military Screening Program Prompts Fast Swine Flu Identification
WASHINGTON, April 27, 2009 - The Defense Department's worldwide influenza monitoring program and decisive action by the medical staff at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, is being credited with helping to identify two cases of swine flu early to help prevent a potential spread.
Military Monitors Swine Flu With Focus on Protecting Force
WASHINGTON, April 27, 2009 – The Defense Department is monitoring the swine flu situation closely
CBP Monitoring Swine Flu Outbreak; All Ports Operating Routinely
(04/27/2009) - U.S. Customs and Border Protection is monitoring all information and guidance concerning the outbreak of swine flu. At this time all U.S. ports of entry are open and operating as normal with officers using risk based border screening .
CBP officers and Border Patrol agents are responding to guidance from health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They are monitoring the health of incoming travelers and taking all appropriate precautions. CBP collaborates with CDC and local health officials to assess potential threats, including referring a person with symptoms to a CDC quarantine station or a local public health official for evaluation.
CBP reminds U.S. citizens and those with plans to enter the United States from Mexico to monitor health information at the CDC Web
MOORHEAD, Minn. -- If your home was affected in the recent flooding it could be harboring mold.
Mold can be a major problem after flooding and proper cleanup is critical to ensure that it does not affect you or your family's health, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.
How to deal with mold during a disaster
A helpful brochure on the FEMA Web site is titled Dealing With Mold & Mildew In Your Flood-Damaged Home at www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf., and is available here also.Download
Valuable information is also available from the Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Information Center Web site Home Energy Guide:
Techniques, Tactics and Tips --
www.state.mn.us/mn/externalDocs/Commerce/Home_Moisture_110802041415_Moisture.pdf., and is available here also. Download
POLO HORSES LIKELY DIED FROM SELENIUM OVERDOSE, FLORIDA STATE VETERINARIAN REPORTS
TALLAHASSEE -- Florida State Veterinarian Thomas J. Holt today reported that an overdose of selenium was the probable cause of death of the 21 polo horses that collapsed prior to a competition in Wellington on April 19.
Water Quality of Potential Concern in US Private Wells
More than 20 percent of private domestic wells sampled nationwide contain at least one contaminant at levels of potential health concern, according to a study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
About 43 million people - or 15 percent of the Nation's population - use drinking water from private wells, which are not regulated by the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.
Contaminants in 20 Percent of U.S. Private Wells
USGS scientists sampled about 2,100 private wells in 48 states and found that the contaminants most frequently measured at concentrations of potential health concern were inorganic contaminants, including radon and arsenic. These contaminants are mostly derived from the natural geologic materials that make up the aquifers from which well water is drawn.
Did you Know?
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of 5 American teenagers and adults is infected with genital herpes. Women are more commonly infected than men. In the United States, 1 out of 4 women has herpes.
Although at least 45 million people in the United States have genital herpes infection, there has been a substantial decrease in cases from 21 percent to 17 percent, according to a 1999 to 2004 CDC survey. Much of the decrease was in the 14 to 19 year age group, and continued through the young adult group.
Depression
What is Depression?
Depression is a serious medical illness; it’s not something that you have made up in your head. It’s more than just feeling "down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. It’s feeling "down" and "low" and "hopeless" for weeks at a time.
Signs & Symptoms
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed
A Major Scientific Breakthrough from Novel Gymnema Sylvestre Isolate Research May Provide a New Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes
NEENAH, Wis.-April 06, 2009 10:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time-(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ayurvedic-Life International, LLC announced today that it's sponsored research at King's College-London featuring it's multi-patented next-generation Gymnema sylvestre extract, "validates its development for clinical use" per a research paper published in Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry, February 2009;23:125-132.
Low concentrations of the novel Gymnema sylvestre isolate stimulate insulin secretion in-vitro without compromising pancreatic beta cell viability, unlike the commonly used GS-4 standardized Gymnema sylvestre extract. Ayurvedic-Life's novel Gymnema sylvestre isolate has the ability to stimulate insulin secretion similar to sulphonylureas and meglitinide analogues that are currently used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes.
Ayurvedic-Life's novel Gymnema sylvestre isolate is produced from their patented proprietary extraction process that preserves the labile compounds of the key Active Principles of botanically pure Gymnema sylvestre leaves. Gymnema sylvestre is a unique plant that grows primarily in the Indian sub-continent and has been used as a natural folk medicine for maintaining optimal health since 6,000 B.C. Several tribes, including the Santals in east-central India have used Gymnema sylvestre leaves for centuries as a folk remedy.
Dr. Arun K. Chatterji, PhD, the inventor of the patented Gymnema sylvestre Virgin Isolate extraction technology and the Chairman and CEO of Ayurvedic-Life International, states, "My invention of the Ayurvedic Virgin Isolate technology coupled with the superb cellular level research performed at King's College-London has the potential to bring a truly unique health solution to millions of people worldwide."
For more information on the research conducted at King's College-London and their complete research paper, please visit http://www.karger.com/cbp.
Publix Issues Voluntary Recall on Pistachios
LAKELAND, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Publix Super Markets is issuing a voluntary recall on all 6 oz packages of Publix Pistachios with a UPC # of 41415-04033. These products may contain pistachios from Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc., who are currently recalling pistachios due to potential contamination with Salmonella.
“As part of our commitment to food safety, potentially impacted product has been removed from all store shelves,” said Maria Brous, Publix media and community relations manager. “To date, there have been no reported cases of illness. Consumers who have purchased the product in question may return the pistachios to their local store for a full refund. Publix customers with additional questions may call our Consumer Relations department at 1-800-242-1227 or e-mail us at www.publix.com.”
John B. Sanfilippo and Son, Inc. Expands Recall of Roasted Salted Inshell Pistachios
ELGIN, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As a follow up to the voluntary recall of roasted shelled and inshell pistachios announced by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella, Inc. on March 31, 2009, John B. Sanfilippo and Son, Inc. (Nasdaq: JBSS) announced today that it is expanding its voluntary recall of small packaged items of Roasted Salted Inshell Pistachios, which are listed below, as a precautionary measure because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.
Americans Consume Too Much Salt
Lower sodium recommendation applies to almost 70 percent of American adults
Most Americans consume more than double the amount of their daily recommended level of sodium. A new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that more than 2 out of 3 adults are in population groups that should consume no more than 1,500 milligrams (mg) per day of sodium. During 2005-2006 the estimated average intake of sodium for persons in the United States age 2 years and older was 3,436 mg per day.
A diet high in sodium increases the risk of having higher blood pressure, a major cause for heart disease and stroke. These diseases are the first and third leading causes of death in the United States.
“It’s important for people to eat less salt. People who adopt a heart healthy eating pattern that includes a diet low in sodium and rich in potassium and calcium can improve their blood pressure,” said Darwin R. Labarthe, M.D., Ph.D., director of the CDC’s Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. “Reducing sodium intake can prevent or delay increases in blood pressure for everyone.’’
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Teen Birth Rates Up Slightly in 2007 for Second Consecutive Year
The birth rate for U.S. teens aged 15 to 19 increased by about 1 percent in 2007, from 41.9 births per 1,000 in 2006 to 42.5 in 2007, according to a report released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is the second year in a row that teen births have gone up. They increased 3 percent in 2006 following a 14-year decline.
Birth rates also increased for women in their 20s, 30s and early 40s, but remained unchanged for younger teens and pre-teens aged 10-14. Only Hispanic teens noted a decline in the birth rate, which fell 2 percent in 2007 to 81.7 births per 1,000.
Unmarried childbearing increased to historic levels in 2007 for women aged 15-44. An estimated 1.7 million babies were born to unmarried women in 2007, accounting for 39.7 percent of all births in the United States – an increase of 4 percent from 2006. Unmarried childbearing has increased 26 percent since 2002 when the recent steep increases began.
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Problems For Peanut Heads
Announcements from The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Food poisoning is possible, take precautionary measures if you are a consumer of these products.
FDA
Salmonella and Peanut Butter
A combination of epidemiological analysis and laboratory testing by state officials in Minnesota and Connecticut, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have enabled FDA to confirm that the sources of the outbreak of illnesses caused by Salmonella Typhimurium are peanut butter and peanut paste produced by the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) at its Blakely, Georgia processing plant.
Peanut butter is sold by PCA in bulk containers ranging in size from five to 1,700 pounds. The peanut paste is sold in sizes ranging from 35-pound containers to product sold by the tanker container. Neither of these products is sold directly to consumers.
However, through its investigation, FDA has determined that PCA distributed potentially contaminated product to more than 70 firms, for use as an ingredient in hundreds of different products, such as cookies, crackers, cereal, candy, and ice cream. Companies all over the country that received product from PCA have issued voluntary recalls of their products.
Products being recalled now include some pet food products that contain peanut paste that was made by PCA. While the risk of animals contracting salmonellosis is minimal, there is risk to people from handling these products. It is especially important for people to wash their hands and make sure that children wash their hands after feeding pets.
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Allergy Alert for Undeclared Walnuts in Ice Cream Sold at Sweetbay Supermarkets in Florida
Wed, 28 Jan 2009 House of Flavors Ice Cream Company, Ludington, MI. is recalling 64 ounce square packages of Hannaford Chocolate Chip Ice Cream lot code number SR L1 26-426 08319 because this lot contains undeclared walnuts. The lot code is printed on the top of the carton flap in black ink. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to walnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
Peanut Corporation of America Expands Nationwide Recall of Peanut Products
PCA Announces the Voluntary Recall of All Peanuts and Peanut Products Shipped from Georgia Plant
CVS/pharmacy Announces Voluntary Recall of Gold Emblem Brand Candy Containing Peanuts
February 3 2009 - CVS/pharmacy announced today that it is voluntarily recalling four types of Gold Emblem candy containing peanuts that were sold in its stores from January 1, 2007 to January 29, 2009. The Company was notified by its candy manufacturer that these products contain peanuts from Peanut Corporation of America, which is the focus of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation into potential salmonella contamination of peanut butter food products.
Safeway Recalls Selected Peanut Products Sold at 66 Stores with Nut Kiosks
January 30 2009 - Safeway has been notified by Orchard Valley Harvest that it is voluntarily recalling a number of conventional and organic peanuts supplied to Safeway because the products may be contaminated with Salmonella. Orchard Valley Harvest has informed Safeway that it sourced the peanuts from Peanut Corporation of America.
HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. – Kmart announced the voluntary recall of certain Super Kmart bakery goods after the company learned that certain granulated peanut products supplied by Hickory Harvest Foods to Super Kmarts may have been produced at a facility which may be contaminated with Salmonella.
At this time Kmart is not aware of any reports of illness linked to these items, however, out of an abundance of caution, we are asking that customers who purchased any of the following baked goods from our Super Kmart bakeries not eat the products and return these goods to Super Kmart for a full refund. We apologize for any inconvenience.
21795000000
Single Layer Peanut Butter Cake
21987100000
Single Layer Carmel Apple Cake
21989800000
Filled and Variety Donuts - Individual
21989600000
Regular Donuts - Individual
21592100000
Mix or Match 12ct Donuts
Rite Aid Announces Voluntary Recall
Rite Aid is voluntarily recalling two of its products containing peanuts that were sold in many Rite Aid stores. The company has been notified by the manufacturer that these products contain peanuts from Peanut Corporation of America, which is the focus of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation into potential salmonella contamination of peanut products. Rite Aid is not aware of any reported cases of illness related to these products, and it has issued this voluntary recall as a precautionary measure.
peanut butter recalls
Welcome to N V Amber Alert Updater for missing children.
Code Amber News Service (CANS) issued this Missing Endangered person Alert after the girl disappeared from her bedroom some time after 3 AM Tuesday morning in Satsuma. Satsuma is approximately 75 miles east of Gainsville.
Haleigh Cummings a white female, 3 feet tall, weighs 39 pounds and has blond hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a pink shirt and underwear.
There are no suspects in this case at this time. However, due to the circumstances of the child's disappearance an abduction is strongly suspected.
There is no suspect vehicle at this time.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Putnam County Sheriff's office at (386) 329-0808 or dial 911.
Download free video of missing Florida child Haleigh Cummings
AMBER Alert Issued for 13 Year Old Florida Girl
Posted: Monday May 5, 2009 2:01 PM CT
The State of Florida issued the Amber Alert Tuesday afternoon (05-09) after the girl was reportedly abducted in Homestead earlier Tuesday.
Krystal Borrego a white female, 13 years old, 5' 2" tall with brown hair and brown eyes and weighs 130 pounds.
The suspect is an unknown black male.
The suspect vehicle is a 1990's, dark red two door Saturn.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Homestead Police Department at 1-305-247-1535 or dial 911.
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Amber Alert Issued for 12 Year Old Florida Girl
Posted: Sunday, March 29, 2009 11:16 AM CT
Sarah Norton
Anyone with information is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff at 941-747-3011 or dial 911.
May 25th Is National Missing Children's Day
 www.feedthechildren.org
Email this alert to a friend in the area.
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