Translated article from Kompas :
" SAMARINDA : Four villages in Samarinda, East Kalimantan (Kaltim), defined as the bird flu virus endemic areas.
"From the results of rapid tests we did on two carcasses of dead chickens in the village of Simpang Pasir District Palaran positive results," said Chief Veterinary and Fish Health Section, Animal Husbandry Department of Samarinda, drh Jumiyanti, Sunday (01/30/2011).
This is the result obtained after conducting tests on chickens that died suddenly, so the bird flu endemic in Samarinda has expanded diempat village, he said"
Monday, January 31, 2011
UK : Disabled teenager died of swine flu after being refused GP appointment
Via Mail Online :
" A disabled teenager who was refused a GP appointment died two weeks later after contracting swine flu and pneumonia.
Katie Waring's devastated parents, Ken and Eveline, claim she could not get a vital appointment, and say they were told to 'wrap her up warm and give her fluids'.
Less than two weeks later, the 19-year-old, who suffered from the rare brain condition Craniostenosis, died in Hartlepool General Hospital, after being diagnosed with pneumonia and swine flu."
" A disabled teenager who was refused a GP appointment died two weeks later after contracting swine flu and pneumonia.
Katie Waring's devastated parents, Ken and Eveline, claim she could not get a vital appointment, and say they were told to 'wrap her up warm and give her fluids'.
Less than two weeks later, the 19-year-old, who suffered from the rare brain condition Craniostenosis, died in Hartlepool General Hospital, after being diagnosed with pneumonia and swine flu."
Australia : Fresh dengue cases spark health warning
Via ABC News, excerpt :
" Two people have been diagnosed with dengue fever at Innisfail, south of Cairns, in far north Queensland.
Queensland Health says others are also being tested, with results to be known later today.
Senior medical entomologist Joe Davis says people who believe they may have symptoms of dengue fever should see a doctor immediately.
"It's so important for people if they are unwell because if they don't go and see a physician and they don't pop up on our dengue radar," he said.
"If they're not on our dengue radar, we don't know they're there and that's how outbreaks happen, that's how outbreaks continue."
" Two people have been diagnosed with dengue fever at Innisfail, south of Cairns, in far north Queensland.
Queensland Health says others are also being tested, with results to be known later today.
Senior medical entomologist Joe Davis says people who believe they may have symptoms of dengue fever should see a doctor immediately.
"It's so important for people if they are unwell because if they don't go and see a physician and they don't pop up on our dengue radar," he said.
"If they're not on our dengue radar, we don't know they're there and that's how outbreaks happen, that's how outbreaks continue."
Japan : Bird flu suspected at another chicken farm in Miyazaki Pref
Via Japan Today :
" MIYAZAKI : Dead chickens found at a poultry farm in Miyazaki Prefecture were infected with a highly pathogenic avian flu virus, local officials said early Monday amid a spreading epidemic among local farms.
The results of detailed tests on the dead birds at the farm in the town of Takanabe confirm the season’s sixth outbreak of bird flu in the prefecture and the ninth in the country.
The prefectural government said it will start culling Monday morning all of the 40,000 chickens at the farm, adding it will also impose a ban on transporting chickens and eggs from poultry farms within a 10-kilometer radius."
" MIYAZAKI : Dead chickens found at a poultry farm in Miyazaki Prefecture were infected with a highly pathogenic avian flu virus, local officials said early Monday amid a spreading epidemic among local farms.
The results of detailed tests on the dead birds at the farm in the town of Takanabe confirm the season’s sixth outbreak of bird flu in the prefecture and the ninth in the country.
The prefectural government said it will start culling Monday morning all of the 40,000 chickens at the farm, adding it will also impose a ban on transporting chickens and eggs from poultry farms within a 10-kilometer radius."
Russia : Moscow Shuts Down Schools After Flu Outbreak
An article from Red Orbit :
" Moscow and two other cities shut their schools down for a week Saturday in an attempt to stop the worst flu outbreak to hit central Russia in over a decade. The Moscow education department's order covered over 1,500 public and private elementary schools.
Education officials said that this meant about 500,000 children would get an unscheduled week-long vacation in the first shutdown to strike the Russian capital since 1998.
"Even today, some classes are already missing half their students," an official with Moscow's health control service told the Komsomolskaya Pravda daily.
"The situation in Moscow is relatively favorable compared to what it is in the other regions" of central Russia, Alexander Gavrilov said."
" Moscow and two other cities shut their schools down for a week Saturday in an attempt to stop the worst flu outbreak to hit central Russia in over a decade. The Moscow education department's order covered over 1,500 public and private elementary schools.
Education officials said that this meant about 500,000 children would get an unscheduled week-long vacation in the first shutdown to strike the Russian capital since 1998.
"Even today, some classes are already missing half their students," an official with Moscow's health control service told the Komsomolskaya Pravda daily.
"The situation in Moscow is relatively favorable compared to what it is in the other regions" of central Russia, Alexander Gavrilov said."
Singapore reports first H1N1 death this year
Via Asia News Network :
" A 77-year-old man died from H1N1 influenza virus infection on January 19 - the first reported case in Singapore this year.
Mohd Lazim Kalang was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on January 15 after his children saw that he had a high fever and had trouble breathing.
The former taxi driver was then found to have a lung infection and was hospitalised for treatment.
He was later transferred to the intensive care unit after his condition worsened. He died four days later.
Ministry of Health (MOH) figures from early this month show more than 75 per cent of patients with influenza now are infected with the H1N1 strain."
" A 77-year-old man died from H1N1 influenza virus infection on January 19 - the first reported case in Singapore this year.
Mohd Lazim Kalang was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on January 15 after his children saw that he had a high fever and had trouble breathing.
The former taxi driver was then found to have a lung infection and was hospitalised for treatment.
He was later transferred to the intensive care unit after his condition worsened. He died four days later.
Ministry of Health (MOH) figures from early this month show more than 75 per cent of patients with influenza now are infected with the H1N1 strain."
Friday, January 28, 2011
Swine, seasonal flu claim two lives in Macedonia
Via Mina :
" A man (32) from Kocani and a 60-year old women from Skopje passed away overnight of swine and seasonal flu respectively at the Clinic of Infectious Diseases in Macedonia's capital.
Hence the flu death toll has reached five, with only one swine flu victim, the Ministry of Health said Thursday in a press release.
The Public Health Institute informed about three new patients with swine flu symptoms, so seven A(H1N1) cases have been registered in the country thus far."
" A man (32) from Kocani and a 60-year old women from Skopje passed away overnight of swine and seasonal flu respectively at the Clinic of Infectious Diseases in Macedonia's capital.
Hence the flu death toll has reached five, with only one swine flu victim, the Ministry of Health said Thursday in a press release.
The Public Health Institute informed about three new patients with swine flu symptoms, so seven A(H1N1) cases have been registered in the country thus far."
Venezuelan Government Confirms 37 Cholera Cases
Via Latin American Herald Tribune :
" CARACAS : Tests have confirmed that 53 Venezuelans who attended a wedding last week in the Dominican Republic are infected with cholera, the Andean nation’s health minister said on Thursday.“All are already confirmed, all the cultures gave us positive results, so in Venezuela there are 37.
Apart from the 37 that there are in Venezuela, we have a report of 12 in the Dominican Republic, two in Madrid, one in Mexico and one in Boston,” Eugenia Sader told a press conference in Caracas.She said all the sick people attended a wedding celebration on Jan. 22 in the Dominican Republic, although a total of 452 Venezuelans were at the ceremony and could have consumed food infected with the cholera virus.
“Our objective is for these 452 people to receive appropriate attention,” she said, adding that fewer than 10 of the people diagnosed with the disease remain hospitalized."
" CARACAS : Tests have confirmed that 53 Venezuelans who attended a wedding last week in the Dominican Republic are infected with cholera, the Andean nation’s health minister said on Thursday.“All are already confirmed, all the cultures gave us positive results, so in Venezuela there are 37.
Apart from the 37 that there are in Venezuela, we have a report of 12 in the Dominican Republic, two in Madrid, one in Mexico and one in Boston,” Eugenia Sader told a press conference in Caracas.She said all the sick people attended a wedding celebration on Jan. 22 in the Dominican Republic, although a total of 452 Venezuelans were at the ceremony and could have consumed food infected with the cholera virus.
“Our objective is for these 452 people to receive appropriate attention,” she said, adding that fewer than 10 of the people diagnosed with the disease remain hospitalized."
Ireland : Number of swine flu deaths doubles
Via The Irish Examiner, excerpt :
" THE number of deaths from swine flu has doubled, according to figures released yesterday by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.
Last week saw the highest death toll from swine flu so far this season, when five people died. This brings to 10 the total number of fatalities as a result of H1N1.
However, the overall influenza-associated death toll stands at 12, including the death of two people with Influenza B infection. Eleven of the deceased had underlying conditions. The east of the country had the highest death toll, claiming eight lives. Two people died in the south and two in the east.
Of the overall number of deaths:
* One death was in a patient in the 0-4 year age group.
* Seven patients were in the 15-64 year age group.
* Four patients were aged 65 years and older."
" THE number of deaths from swine flu has doubled, according to figures released yesterday by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre.
Last week saw the highest death toll from swine flu so far this season, when five people died. This brings to 10 the total number of fatalities as a result of H1N1.
However, the overall influenza-associated death toll stands at 12, including the death of two people with Influenza B infection. Eleven of the deceased had underlying conditions. The east of the country had the highest death toll, claiming eight lives. Two people died in the south and two in the east.
Of the overall number of deaths:
* One death was in a patient in the 0-4 year age group.
* Seven patients were in the 15-64 year age group.
* Four patients were aged 65 years and older."
A/H1N1 death toll rises to 25 in Italy
Via Xinhua :
" ROME, Jan. 27 : A total of 25 people have been killed by the A/H1N1 flu virus in Italy since the beginning of this year, authorities said Thursday.
The latest victim of the virus was a 51-year-old man who died on Thursday. The man was hospitalized in January and suffered from respiratory problems. Two other people, who contracted the influenza virus, are being treated on Thursday in emergency units and their conditions are serious.
A total of 14 people infected by the virus are currently lying in hospital beds receiving medical treatment."
" ROME, Jan. 27 : A total of 25 people have been killed by the A/H1N1 flu virus in Italy since the beginning of this year, authorities said Thursday.
The latest victim of the virus was a 51-year-old man who died on Thursday. The man was hospitalized in January and suffered from respiratory problems. Two other people, who contracted the influenza virus, are being treated on Thursday in emergency units and their conditions are serious.
A total of 14 people infected by the virus are currently lying in hospital beds receiving medical treatment."
Australia : New dengue fever outbreak declared
Via The Sydney Morning Herald :
" A new outbreak of dengue fever has been declared in the far north Queensland town of Innisfail.
Queensland Health on Friday declared an outbreak after receiving confirmation at least one locally acquired case of the mosquito-borne virus.
One resident has been diagnosed with the virus and authorities are awaiting confirmation on another suspected case in the town.
Queensland Health Medical Director Dr Jeffrey Hanna urged residents, particularly those in East Innisfail, to take steps to prevent a repeat of the 2009 outbreak which resulted in 35 residents being diagnosed with the virus.
He urged residents to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to clear up potential breeding zones around their property."
" A new outbreak of dengue fever has been declared in the far north Queensland town of Innisfail.
Queensland Health on Friday declared an outbreak after receiving confirmation at least one locally acquired case of the mosquito-borne virus.
One resident has been diagnosed with the virus and authorities are awaiting confirmation on another suspected case in the town.
Queensland Health Medical Director Dr Jeffrey Hanna urged residents, particularly those in East Innisfail, to take steps to prevent a repeat of the 2009 outbreak which resulted in 35 residents being diagnosed with the virus.
He urged residents to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to clear up potential breeding zones around their property."
Japan : Experts warn avian flu could persist in Japan
An article from Asahi, excerpt :
" The fifth confirmed outbreak of avian flu in two months has experts concerned that migratory birds are bringing to Japan highly pathogenic viruses that could survive for a long time and devastate the nation's poultry industry.
"The current situation is such that bird flu could break out anywhere, anytime, across Japan," said Hiroshi Kida, a professor of veterinary medicine at Hokkaido University. "All we can do is to contain it locally by swiftly reporting (an outbreak) and culling birds."
The Aichi prefectural government said early Thursday that a highly virulent H5 strain killed birds at a poultry farm in Toyohashi. "
" The fifth confirmed outbreak of avian flu in two months has experts concerned that migratory birds are bringing to Japan highly pathogenic viruses that could survive for a long time and devastate the nation's poultry industry.
"The current situation is such that bird flu could break out anywhere, anytime, across Japan," said Hiroshi Kida, a professor of veterinary medicine at Hokkaido University. "All we can do is to contain it locally by swiftly reporting (an outbreak) and culling birds."
The Aichi prefectural government said early Thursday that a highly virulent H5 strain killed birds at a poultry farm in Toyohashi. "
Hong Kong : Public hospitals announce the latest Human Swine Influenza critical cases
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection, please read the whole press release :
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals. The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 27):
The United Christian Hospital (UCH) announced that a 48-year-old male patient, confirmed with Human Swine Influenza today, was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) this afternoon for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Treatment. QEH is one of the designated ECMO centres of the HA.
The patient is in critical condition and prescribed with Tamiflu and antibiotic and requires ventilation support. The patient attended the Accident and Emergency Department of the UCH yesterday (January 26) with fever and flu symptoms. He was admitted for treatment and his condition deteriorated. The patient was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit of the UCH on the same day."
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals. The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 27):
The United Christian Hospital (UCH) announced that a 48-year-old male patient, confirmed with Human Swine Influenza today, was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) this afternoon for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Treatment. QEH is one of the designated ECMO centres of the HA.
The patient is in critical condition and prescribed with Tamiflu and antibiotic and requires ventilation support. The patient attended the Accident and Emergency Department of the UCH yesterday (January 26) with fever and flu symptoms. He was admitted for treatment and his condition deteriorated. The patient was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit of the UCH on the same day."
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Japan : Aichi, Kochi fear bird flu's spread
Via The Japan Times :
" Chickens at a poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, have been confirmed infected with a highly pathogenic avian flu virus, the prefectural government said Wednesday.
Elsewhere, suspected cases of bird flu were detected in Aichi and Kochi prefectures, raising concern the disease may spread across the nation.
After seven out of 10 chickens tested from the Izumi poultry farm were confirmed to be infected with the H5 bird flu strain, the prefecture had all 8,600 chickens there killed.
The Kagoshima case is the third outbreak this month of highly pathogenic bird flu among chickens, following cases in the city of Miyazaki and in Shintomi, Miyazaki Prefecture, where the virus was confirmed as a highly lethal strain."
" Chickens at a poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, have been confirmed infected with a highly pathogenic avian flu virus, the prefectural government said Wednesday.
Elsewhere, suspected cases of bird flu were detected in Aichi and Kochi prefectures, raising concern the disease may spread across the nation.
After seven out of 10 chickens tested from the Izumi poultry farm were confirmed to be infected with the H5 bird flu strain, the prefecture had all 8,600 chickens there killed.
The Kagoshima case is the third outbreak this month of highly pathogenic bird flu among chickens, following cases in the city of Miyazaki and in Shintomi, Miyazaki Prefecture, where the virus was confirmed as a highly lethal strain."
Indonesia : Suspected bird flu outbreak in Pacitan
Translated article from Republika :
" Suspected outbreak of bird flu re-emerged in a number of areas in Pacitan, East Java.Head of Animal Health in the Department of Food and Farming Pacitan, Fathur Rozi, Wednesday said that currently there are two villages which have been confirmed infected with the deadly virus that usually attacks the avian residents.
"The information that we received while and have been followed up there around 150 chickens owned by residents in the Village and Village Nanggungan Ploso, Pacitan District, died suddenly. A similar case also we find in the Village Jatimalang, District Arjosari at about the same time," he asserted.
According to him, the institute has conducted preparedness by setting up a number of vaccine and disinfectant fluid in sufficient quantity."
" Suspected outbreak of bird flu re-emerged in a number of areas in Pacitan, East Java.Head of Animal Health in the Department of Food and Farming Pacitan, Fathur Rozi, Wednesday said that currently there are two villages which have been confirmed infected with the deadly virus that usually attacks the avian residents.
"The information that we received while and have been followed up there around 150 chickens owned by residents in the Village and Village Nanggungan Ploso, Pacitan District, died suddenly. A similar case also we find in the Village Jatimalang, District Arjosari at about the same time," he asserted.
According to him, the institute has conducted preparedness by setting up a number of vaccine and disinfectant fluid in sufficient quantity."
Singapore : 4 out of 5 flu cases here due to H1N1
Via Asia One :
" SINGAPORE : The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued an alert, urging those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and young children, to be vaccinated against the flu.
This is because cases of acute respiratory infections (ARI) and influenza-like-illnesses (ILI) are still on the rise, having crossed the epidemic threshold earlier this month. Last week, 20,203 people sought treatment in polyclinics for ARI and ILI, an increase of 13 per cent from the previous week. The number of patients seeking help for ARI at the emergency departments also showed upward trends in the last few weeks.
MOH revealed that 76 per cent, or approximately four out of five cases, of influenza were caused by the H1N1 virus. It urged vulnerable groups such as very young children, the elderly and patients with chronic illnesses to be vaccinated against the flu. It said that even though most cases of influenza resolve with rest and symptomatic treatment, the illness can result in complications such as pneumonia or even death for some."
" SINGAPORE : The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued an alert, urging those with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and young children, to be vaccinated against the flu.
This is because cases of acute respiratory infections (ARI) and influenza-like-illnesses (ILI) are still on the rise, having crossed the epidemic threshold earlier this month. Last week, 20,203 people sought treatment in polyclinics for ARI and ILI, an increase of 13 per cent from the previous week. The number of patients seeking help for ARI at the emergency departments also showed upward trends in the last few weeks.
MOH revealed that 76 per cent, or approximately four out of five cases, of influenza were caused by the H1N1 virus. It urged vulnerable groups such as very young children, the elderly and patients with chronic illnesses to be vaccinated against the flu. It said that even though most cases of influenza resolve with rest and symptomatic treatment, the illness can result in complications such as pneumonia or even death for some."
Hong Kong : Public hospitals announce the latest Human Swine Influenza serious and deceased cases
From Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection, fatality due to H1N1 has been reported :
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals. The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 26):
A 16-year-old male patient in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) was confirmed Human Swine Influenza today. The patient, now in serious condition, is under anti-viral and antibiotic treatment and also on ventilation support. The hospital will continue to closely monitor his condition. The patient developed fever symptom on January 23 and was admitted to QEH for treatment via Accident and Emergency Department.
As at 2pm today, there were a total of 15 influenza patients, including the new patient case in QEH, staying in the intensive care unit of public hospitals.
In addition, a 27-year-old female patient developed flu symptoms on January 20. She attended the Accident & Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital (TKOH) for shortness of breath and fever on January 25 and was admitted to the medical ward. Her condition deteriorated and she was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit on the same day for further treatment. She was prescribed Tamiflu and antibiotics. She suffered from respiratory failure and was on ventilation support. Her condition continued to deteriorate. The patient was certified dead on the same day. Her test result confirmed Human Swine Influenza this afternoon. She has no chronic disease history.The case has been referred to the Coroner. The hospital would like to express its condolences to the patient's family."
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals. The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 26):
A 16-year-old male patient in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) was confirmed Human Swine Influenza today. The patient, now in serious condition, is under anti-viral and antibiotic treatment and also on ventilation support. The hospital will continue to closely monitor his condition. The patient developed fever symptom on January 23 and was admitted to QEH for treatment via Accident and Emergency Department.
As at 2pm today, there were a total of 15 influenza patients, including the new patient case in QEH, staying in the intensive care unit of public hospitals.
In addition, a 27-year-old female patient developed flu symptoms on January 20. She attended the Accident & Emergency Department of Tseung Kwan O Hospital (TKOH) for shortness of breath and fever on January 25 and was admitted to the medical ward. Her condition deteriorated and she was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit on the same day for further treatment. She was prescribed Tamiflu and antibiotics. She suffered from respiratory failure and was on ventilation support. Her condition continued to deteriorate. The patient was certified dead on the same day. Her test result confirmed Human Swine Influenza this afternoon. She has no chronic disease history.The case has been referred to the Coroner. The hospital would like to express its condolences to the patient's family."
Philippines : Lapu-Lapu City tops dengue cases in Central Visayas
Via Yahoo News, excerpt :
" LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu, Philippines : After posting 15 cases, as documented by the latest data from the Regional Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health (DoH) Central Visayas field office for the period January 1 to 22, this city now tops the number of dengue cases in the region.
This city is followed by Mandaue City and Cebu City with nine cases each although the latter has one reported death, the only place to report a fatality from dengue as of press time.
Dr. Jocelyn Abellana, medical specialist IV of DoH7 bared that there were lesser cases reported in the said period with only 87 cases and one death or a reduction of 87 percent compared to data for the same period last year with 673 cases and nine deaths recorded."
" LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu, Philippines : After posting 15 cases, as documented by the latest data from the Regional Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (RESU) of the Department of Health (DoH) Central Visayas field office for the period January 1 to 22, this city now tops the number of dengue cases in the region.
This city is followed by Mandaue City and Cebu City with nine cases each although the latter has one reported death, the only place to report a fatality from dengue as of press time.
Dr. Jocelyn Abellana, medical specialist IV of DoH7 bared that there were lesser cases reported in the said period with only 87 cases and one death or a reduction of 87 percent compared to data for the same period last year with 673 cases and nine deaths recorded."
Australia : New Bali flights pose dengue risks
Via Townsville Bulletin :
" NEW flights to Bali may pave the way for Townsville residents to explore South-East Asia but it has also opened up the region to visitors of a different kind.
Two people have recently returned home from Bali after contracting the potentially deadly dengue fever virus while on holidays.
The news has sparked concern from the Townsville City Council and Queensland Health over the possibility of foreign strains of dengue fever and even other tropical diseases or parasites being brought into the region.
Both organisations have planned discussions with new international carrier Strategic Airlines on how to combat the problem and protect the region from outbreaks.
Australian health authorities issued an alert after 11 cases of Legionnaires' disease were detected in Victorian and Western Australian residents returning from holidays in the Kuta area of Bali between August 2010 and January 2011."
" NEW flights to Bali may pave the way for Townsville residents to explore South-East Asia but it has also opened up the region to visitors of a different kind.
Two people have recently returned home from Bali after contracting the potentially deadly dengue fever virus while on holidays.
The news has sparked concern from the Townsville City Council and Queensland Health over the possibility of foreign strains of dengue fever and even other tropical diseases or parasites being brought into the region.
Both organisations have planned discussions with new international carrier Strategic Airlines on how to combat the problem and protect the region from outbreaks.
Australian health authorities issued an alert after 11 cases of Legionnaires' disease were detected in Victorian and Western Australian residents returning from holidays in the Kuta area of Bali between August 2010 and January 2011."
Hong Kong : Update on cluster of Human Swine Influenza cases in Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Another press release from the Centre for Health Protection :
" Regarding a male psychiatric ward of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) in which some patients have been confirmed with Human Swine Influenza (HSI), a hospital spokesperson announced the following update today (January 26):
One more 30-year-old male patient in the ward has presented with fever. Appropriate viral tests have been arranged and the outcome confirmed human swine influenza today. The patient is being treated under isolation and has been prescribed with Tamiflu. He is in a stable condition."
" Regarding a male psychiatric ward of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) in which some patients have been confirmed with Human Swine Influenza (HSI), a hospital spokesperson announced the following update today (January 26):
One more 30-year-old male patient in the ward has presented with fever. Appropriate viral tests have been arranged and the outcome confirmed human swine influenza today. The patient is being treated under isolation and has been prescribed with Tamiflu. He is in a stable condition."
Hong Kong : Black-headed Gull tests positive for H5 virus
From Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" Preliminary testing of a dead Black-headed Gull found on Lantau has proved positive for H5 avian influenza virus, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (January 26), adding that further confirmatory tests were being conducted.
The bird's carcass was found and collected on January 24 at 81 South Perimeter Road, Lantau. The Black-headed Gull is a common winter visitor.
The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found.
In view of the case, the AFCD has phoned poultry farmers to remind them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Letters have been issued to farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken."
" Preliminary testing of a dead Black-headed Gull found on Lantau has proved positive for H5 avian influenza virus, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (January 26), adding that further confirmatory tests were being conducted.
The bird's carcass was found and collected on January 24 at 81 South Perimeter Road, Lantau. The Black-headed Gull is a common winter visitor.
The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found.
In view of the case, the AFCD has phoned poultry farmers to remind them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Letters have been issued to farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken."
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Ireland : Woman loses fight against swine flu
An article from Independent :
" A MIDDLE-aged woman with no underlying health problems has become Ireland's latest swine flu fatality.
The unnamed woman is understood to have died from suspected swine flu in a Cork hospital in the past week.
The woman had been treated in hospital for 48 hours but her condition deteriorated dramatically and she died despite desperate efforts by doctors to stabilise her.
It is the first suspected death in the Cork area this year involving the human strain of swine flu."
" A MIDDLE-aged woman with no underlying health problems has become Ireland's latest swine flu fatality.
The unnamed woman is understood to have died from suspected swine flu in a Cork hospital in the past week.
The woman had been treated in hospital for 48 hours but her condition deteriorated dramatically and she died despite desperate efforts by doctors to stabilise her.
It is the first suspected death in the Cork area this year involving the human strain of swine flu."
India : Two test positive for cholera
Via Mid Day :
" Girl travelling to Jharkand admitted to Sassoon: hospital also confirms another case of 65-year-old.
Cholera has arrived in the city. Two persons have tested positive for cholera after their stool samples were sent to the Sassoon General Hospital. Officials at the hospital confirmed that the culture tests at the microbiology lab have indicated vibrio cholerae of the El Tor type, which doctors said is a milder form of the highly infectious bacterial disease.
This they said should be reported to the international community.Dr Anju Kagal, head of microbiology department, said the first sample was of a 16-year-old girl Juhi Kumari Yadav, who was travelling to Jharkand with two friends. "She developed severe diarrhoea and dehydration and had to alight in Pune. She was admitted to Sassoon hospital and was treated here after her sample tested positive for cholera.
The second person's stool sample was sent by Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital for confirmation of cholera," said Kagal.Kagal said the patient was a 65-year-old and refused to divulge further details citing patient confidentiality."
" Girl travelling to Jharkand admitted to Sassoon: hospital also confirms another case of 65-year-old.
Cholera has arrived in the city. Two persons have tested positive for cholera after their stool samples were sent to the Sassoon General Hospital. Officials at the hospital confirmed that the culture tests at the microbiology lab have indicated vibrio cholerae of the El Tor type, which doctors said is a milder form of the highly infectious bacterial disease.
This they said should be reported to the international community.Dr Anju Kagal, head of microbiology department, said the first sample was of a 16-year-old girl Juhi Kumari Yadav, who was travelling to Jharkand with two friends. "She developed severe diarrhoea and dehydration and had to alight in Pune. She was admitted to Sassoon hospital and was treated here after her sample tested positive for cholera.
The second person's stool sample was sent by Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital for confirmation of cholera," said Kagal.Kagal said the patient was a 65-year-old and refused to divulge further details citing patient confidentiality."
Vietnam : Flu cases spike in January
An article from Vietnam News :
" HA NOI : In the first three weeks of this year, 26 people tested positive for A/H1N1 influenza, according to the Ministry of Health's Preventive Health Department.
The first case was discovered in Long An Province and since then, 15 cases had been reported in HCM City and 10 in Ha Noi.
Professor Tran Thanh Duong, deputy director of the department, said that the department had tested 52 samples between December 27, 2010 and January 2.
The results revealed that 30.8 per cent were infected with flu. However, most patients showed only light flu symptoms with no serious complications, he said."
" HA NOI : In the first three weeks of this year, 26 people tested positive for A/H1N1 influenza, according to the Ministry of Health's Preventive Health Department.
The first case was discovered in Long An Province and since then, 15 cases had been reported in HCM City and 10 in Ha Noi.
Professor Tran Thanh Duong, deputy director of the department, said that the department had tested 52 samples between December 27, 2010 and January 2.
The results revealed that 30.8 per cent were infected with flu. However, most patients showed only light flu symptoms with no serious complications, he said."
Cholera claimed 4,000 lives in Haiti
Via Sify News :
" Port-au-Prince, Jan 26 : More than 3,900 Haitians have died of cholera since the outbreak of the disease in mid-October, the country's health officials has said.
The disease has spread across all 10 provinces of Haiti, infecting 199,497 people. Of the 112,656 patients hospitalised, 110,031 have been successfully treated.
Artibonite, the northern province, accounts for 852 cholera deaths, while 632 fatalities have been registered in Ouest province, including Port-au-Prince, where hundreds of thousands stay in camps more than a year after the devastating earthquake that claimed some 300,000 lives."
" Port-au-Prince, Jan 26 : More than 3,900 Haitians have died of cholera since the outbreak of the disease in mid-October, the country's health officials has said.
The disease has spread across all 10 provinces of Haiti, infecting 199,497 people. Of the 112,656 patients hospitalised, 110,031 have been successfully treated.
Artibonite, the northern province, accounts for 852 cholera deaths, while 632 fatalities have been registered in Ouest province, including Port-au-Prince, where hundreds of thousands stay in camps more than a year after the devastating earthquake that claimed some 300,000 lives."
Japan facing avian flu pandemic, 4th farm tests positive for virus
Via Xinhua :
" TOKYO, Jan. 26 : Chickens at a poultry farm in Japan' s southwestern prefecture of Kagoshima have tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu, local government officials said Wednesday.
The prefectural government said that of the 10 birds tested for the virus, eight of them tested positive. The culling of around 8,600 chickens has already started at the poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, according to the officials.
This is the third case this year and the fourth since December that mass poultry culling has occurred in Japan following the detection of the avian flu virus, which officials say in some cases was a particularly infective strain."
" TOKYO, Jan. 26 : Chickens at a poultry farm in Japan' s southwestern prefecture of Kagoshima have tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu, local government officials said Wednesday.
The prefectural government said that of the 10 birds tested for the virus, eight of them tested positive. The culling of around 8,600 chickens has already started at the poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, according to the officials.
This is the third case this year and the fourth since December that mass poultry culling has occurred in Japan following the detection of the avian flu virus, which officials say in some cases was a particularly infective strain."
Malaysia releases lab mosquitoes to fight dengue
Via Yahoo News :
" KUALA LUMPUR : Malaysia released about 6,000 genetically modified mosquitoes into a forest in the first experiment of its kind in Asia aimed at curbing dengue fever, officials said Wednesday.
The field test is meant to pave the way for the official use of genetically engineered Aedes aegypti male mosquitoes to mate with females and produce offspring with shorter lives, thus curtailing the mosquito population. Only female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes spread dengue fever, which killed 134 people in Malaysia last year.
The plan has sparked criticism by some Malaysian environmentalists, who fear it might have unforeseen consequences, such as the inadvertent creation of uncontrollable mutated mosquitoes. Government authorities have tried to allay the concerns by saying they are conducting small-scale research and will not rush into any widespread release of mosquitoes."
" KUALA LUMPUR : Malaysia released about 6,000 genetically modified mosquitoes into a forest in the first experiment of its kind in Asia aimed at curbing dengue fever, officials said Wednesday.
The field test is meant to pave the way for the official use of genetically engineered Aedes aegypti male mosquitoes to mate with females and produce offspring with shorter lives, thus curtailing the mosquito population. Only female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes spread dengue fever, which killed 134 people in Malaysia last year.
The plan has sparked criticism by some Malaysian environmentalists, who fear it might have unforeseen consequences, such as the inadvertent creation of uncontrollable mutated mosquitoes. Government authorities have tried to allay the concerns by saying they are conducting small-scale research and will not rush into any widespread release of mosquitoes."
Japan : Avian flu is feared at Kagoshima farm
An article from The Japan Times :
" KAGOSHIMA : Chickens at a poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, tested positive for bird flu in a preliminary examination, the prefecture said Tuesday, following outbreaks of a highly lethal strain of avian influenza in Miyazaki Prefecture.
The Kagoshima farm raises some 8,600 chickens for eggs. There are around 160 poultry farms within a 10-km radius of the farm, accounting for some 5.25 million birds.
Local authorities plan to examine the chickens more closely."
" KAGOSHIMA : Chickens at a poultry farm in Izumi, Kagoshima Prefecture, tested positive for bird flu in a preliminary examination, the prefecture said Tuesday, following outbreaks of a highly lethal strain of avian influenza in Miyazaki Prefecture.
The Kagoshima farm raises some 8,600 chickens for eggs. There are around 160 poultry farms within a 10-km radius of the farm, accounting for some 5.25 million birds.
Local authorities plan to examine the chickens more closely."
Israel : Young man another victim of flu virus
Via The Jerusalem Post :
" A 35-year-old man who was hospitalized two weeks ago with complications from the H1N1 flu virus at Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem’s Ein Kerem died on Tuesday at the Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Campus.
He was transferred there to be attached to a special device meant to keep him breathing, but it did not succeed. The Health Ministry continues to urge the public, especially those at high risk, to get vaccinated."
" A 35-year-old man who was hospitalized two weeks ago with complications from the H1N1 flu virus at Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem’s Ein Kerem died on Tuesday at the Rabin Medical Center-Beilinson Campus.
He was transferred there to be attached to a special device meant to keep him breathing, but it did not succeed. The Health Ministry continues to urge the public, especially those at high risk, to get vaccinated."
Macau : Babies in critical condition with H1N1
Via Macau Daily Times, excerpt :
" Two baby boys have tested positive for Influenza A (H1N1) and are in critical condition, according to the Health Bureau.According to a press release sent on Monday night, the babies aged three months and two years and eight months old, respectively, are hospitalized at the public hospital Conde de São Januário.
On Saturday, the boys’ health conditions started to worsen and they began having breathing difficulties.Neither of the two babies had been vaccinated against influenza nor seasonal flu this year.In addition, on Monday, the Health Bureau reported a flu outbreak at a nursery and at a children’s home.
A total of 15 children aged between one and five years are suffering from flu, of which one is now at the hospital in stable condition."
" Two baby boys have tested positive for Influenza A (H1N1) and are in critical condition, according to the Health Bureau.According to a press release sent on Monday night, the babies aged three months and two years and eight months old, respectively, are hospitalized at the public hospital Conde de São Januário.
On Saturday, the boys’ health conditions started to worsen and they began having breathing difficulties.Neither of the two babies had been vaccinated against influenza nor seasonal flu this year.In addition, on Monday, the Health Bureau reported a flu outbreak at a nursery and at a children’s home.
A total of 15 children aged between one and five years are suffering from flu, of which one is now at the hospital in stable condition."
UK : Swine flu Herefordshire Council worker dies
An article from BBC News :
" A Herefordshire council worker has died after contracting swine flu, health officials say.
The worker had previous underlying health problems, NHS Herefordshire confirmed.
It is the first death in the county caused by the H1N1 swine flu virus, the spokesman added."
" A Herefordshire council worker has died after contracting swine flu, health officials say.
The worker had previous underlying health problems, NHS Herefordshire confirmed.
It is the first death in the county caused by the H1N1 swine flu virus, the spokesman added."
Hong Kong : Public hospitals announce the latest Human Swine Influenza critical and serious cases
From Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals.
The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 25):
The Tseung Kwan O Hospital announced that a 42-year-old male patient confirmed Human Swine Influenza (HSI) on January 24 is being treated in the Intensive Care Unit. The patient, now in critical condition, is under Tamiflu and antibiotic treatment.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor his condition. The patient presented with fever on January 17. He attended Accident and Emergency Department on January 23 for shortness of breath and was admitted for further treatment.
Furthermore, the Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) announced that a 14-year-old female patient confirmed HSI today is being treated in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.
The patient, now in serious condition, is under Tamiflu and antibiotic treatment and also on ventilation support.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor her condition.
The patient was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for dyspnoea on January 8 and transferred to KWH on January 17 for continuous treatment. She developed fever symptom on the following day."
" In response to the recent influenza situation in Hong Kong, the Hospital Authority (HA), in close collaboration with the Centre for Health Protection, has activated the enhanced monitoring system for severe influenza patients staying at the intensive care unit of public hospitals.
The HA spokesman announced the following update today (January 25):
The Tseung Kwan O Hospital announced that a 42-year-old male patient confirmed Human Swine Influenza (HSI) on January 24 is being treated in the Intensive Care Unit. The patient, now in critical condition, is under Tamiflu and antibiotic treatment.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor his condition. The patient presented with fever on January 17. He attended Accident and Emergency Department on January 23 for shortness of breath and was admitted for further treatment.
Furthermore, the Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) announced that a 14-year-old female patient confirmed HSI today is being treated in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.
The patient, now in serious condition, is under Tamiflu and antibiotic treatment and also on ventilation support.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor her condition.
The patient was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for dyspnoea on January 8 and transferred to KWH on January 17 for continuous treatment. She developed fever symptom on the following day."
WHO : Yellow fever in Côte d'Ivoire
From WHO :
" 25 January 2011 : On 3 January 2011, the Minister of Health in Côte d'Ivoire notified WHO of a yellow fever outbreak in the north of the country. As of January 17, 2011 a total of 12 cases tested IgM positive by ELISA at the Institut Pasteur of Abidjan and were subsequently confirmed positive for yellow fever by the regional reference laboratory, the Institut Pasteur of Dakar (by ELISA and PRNT). These cases originate from Béoumi and Katiola districts, in the Bandama Valley Region in the centre of the country, and Séguéla and Mankono in the Worodougou Region in the north of the country.
In response to this outbreak, a field investigation was conducted in Béoumi and Katiola districts from 10 to 15 January 2011 by the Ministry of Health with support from the WHO country office. During this investigation a total of 64 suspected cases, including 25 deaths, were identified. Further laboratory testing is on-going."
" 25 January 2011 : On 3 January 2011, the Minister of Health in Côte d'Ivoire notified WHO of a yellow fever outbreak in the north of the country. As of January 17, 2011 a total of 12 cases tested IgM positive by ELISA at the Institut Pasteur of Abidjan and were subsequently confirmed positive for yellow fever by the regional reference laboratory, the Institut Pasteur of Dakar (by ELISA and PRNT). These cases originate from Béoumi and Katiola districts, in the Bandama Valley Region in the centre of the country, and Séguéla and Mankono in the Worodougou Region in the north of the country.
In response to this outbreak, a field investigation was conducted in Béoumi and Katiola districts from 10 to 15 January 2011 by the Ministry of Health with support from the WHO country office. During this investigation a total of 64 suspected cases, including 25 deaths, were identified. Further laboratory testing is on-going."
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Indonesia : Three Villages in Samarinda Positive Bird Flu
Translated article from Tribun Kaltim :
" Rapid test results of samples taken participatory officer Disease Surveillance and Response (PDSR) Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Husbandry Department Kalimantan Samarinda, until Tuesday (25/01/2011), three Village in Samarinda has tested positive for bird flu.
Three subdistricts namely Mugirejo Village, Village and Village Evidence Pinang Greeting. It is disclosed Kasie Animal Health, Animal Husbandry Department Samarinda, Jumianti sampling location that is in RT 13 Kelurahan Mugirejo, District of North Samarinda, Samarinda, on Tuesday (01/25/2011 )."
" Rapid test results of samples taken participatory officer Disease Surveillance and Response (PDSR) Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Husbandry Department Kalimantan Samarinda, until Tuesday (25/01/2011), three Village in Samarinda has tested positive for bird flu.
Three subdistricts namely Mugirejo Village, Village and Village Evidence Pinang Greeting. It is disclosed Kasie Animal Health, Animal Husbandry Department Samarinda, Jumianti sampling location that is in RT 13 Kelurahan Mugirejo, District of North Samarinda, Samarinda, on Tuesday (01/25/2011 )."
UK : Swine flu cases treated at QEH
Via Lynn News :
" SWINE flu has hit West Norfolk, with three confirmed cases currently being treated at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
There has also been an influx of patients suffering from respiratory problems, and extra staff with experience of dealing with these conditions have been drafted in to help to care for them.
A spokesman said these patients were suffering from a number of different conditions which caused respiratory problems. Last week 13 people were being treated in intensive care with respiratory problems, however this number has dropped in the last week."
" SWINE flu has hit West Norfolk, with three confirmed cases currently being treated at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
There has also been an influx of patients suffering from respiratory problems, and extra staff with experience of dealing with these conditions have been drafted in to help to care for them.
A spokesman said these patients were suffering from a number of different conditions which caused respiratory problems. Last week 13 people were being treated in intensive care with respiratory problems, however this number has dropped in the last week."
2 Ghanaians dead, 45 hospitalized in cholera outbreak
Via Xinhua :
" ACCRA, Jan. 24 : Two deaths were recorded on Monday and more than 45 people hospitalized after a cholera outbreak hit southern Ghana, officials of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) told Xinhua.
The patients are receiving treatment in a number of health centers in the capital Accra and other parts of the central region.
Dr. Elias Sory, director-general of GHS, said strategies were in place to fight the pandemic, adding all government health facilities in the region were equipped to handle cholera cases."
" ACCRA, Jan. 24 : Two deaths were recorded on Monday and more than 45 people hospitalized after a cholera outbreak hit southern Ghana, officials of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) told Xinhua.
The patients are receiving treatment in a number of health centers in the capital Accra and other parts of the central region.
Dr. Elias Sory, director-general of GHS, said strategies were in place to fight the pandemic, adding all government health facilities in the region were equipped to handle cholera cases."
Hong Kong : Employers and employees advised to take precautionary measures against influenza
From Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Labour Department has advised employers and employees to take precautionary measures for the prevention of influenza.
A spokesman for the Labour Department said today (January 25) it was of the utmost importance that employers and employees should stay vigilant in guarding against the risk of influenza at workplaces, as a healthy and safe workplace was in both their interests."
" The Labour Department has advised employers and employees to take precautionary measures for the prevention of influenza.
A spokesman for the Labour Department said today (January 25) it was of the utmost importance that employers and employees should stay vigilant in guarding against the risk of influenza at workplaces, as a healthy and safe workplace was in both their interests."
UK : Pregnant woman in swine flu life battle
Via The Sun :
" A MUM-to-be was fighting for life in hospital last night after being struck by swine flu.
The woman is thought to be several months into her pregnancy and has the potentially deadly H1N1 strain of the virus.
She was admitted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and has been hooked up to a special ECMO machine to help her beat the illness."
" A MUM-to-be was fighting for life in hospital last night after being struck by swine flu.
The woman is thought to be several months into her pregnancy and has the potentially deadly H1N1 strain of the virus.
She was admitted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and has been hooked up to a special ECMO machine to help her beat the illness."
Japan : Bird flu spreads to 2nd Miyazaki farm
Via Asahi :
" SHINTOMI, Miyazaki Prefecture : A second outbreak of avian flu was confirmed in Miyazaki Prefecture, prompting a dispatch of Ground Self-Defense Force troops Monday to help prevent a further spread of the disease.
Miyazaki Governor Shunji Kono requested the emergency SDF dispatch after 20 birds were found dead Sunday at a giant poultry farm complex in Shintomi. Five of six birds tested were found to have been infected with the H5 influenza virus.
About 170 troops were to be deployed from the GSDF base in Miyakonojo on Monday and join efforts to contain the disease Tuesday."
" SHINTOMI, Miyazaki Prefecture : A second outbreak of avian flu was confirmed in Miyazaki Prefecture, prompting a dispatch of Ground Self-Defense Force troops Monday to help prevent a further spread of the disease.
Miyazaki Governor Shunji Kono requested the emergency SDF dispatch after 20 birds were found dead Sunday at a giant poultry farm complex in Shintomi. Five of six birds tested were found to have been infected with the H5 influenza virus.
About 170 troops were to be deployed from the GSDF base in Miyakonojo on Monday and join efforts to contain the disease Tuesday."
Indonesia : Kuningan, West Java - Bird flu in backyard chickens
From Ida at Bird Flu Information Corner :
" Kuningan : Backyard chickens in Desa Kedungarum Kecamatan Kuningan and Desa Cigarukgak Kecamatan Cawigebang have suddenly died and tested positive bird flu H5N1.
According to the head of Livestock and Fishery Service of Kabupaten Kuningan, Triastami, 56 dead chickens reported in Desa Kedungarum and 15 in Desa Cigarukgak, all confirmed bird flu positive by rapid test."
" Kuningan : Backyard chickens in Desa Kedungarum Kecamatan Kuningan and Desa Cigarukgak Kecamatan Cawigebang have suddenly died and tested positive bird flu H5N1.
According to the head of Livestock and Fishery Service of Kabupaten Kuningan, Triastami, 56 dead chickens reported in Desa Kedungarum and 15 in Desa Cigarukgak, all confirmed bird flu positive by rapid test."
Pakistan : Swine flu claims first victim of the year
An article from The News :
" A 29-year-old man became the first victim of swine flu this year in the city on Monday.Four other patients tested positive for H1N1 (Type-A) Influenza strain in Karachi, bringing the number of such patients to 29 in Sindh this year, Influenza Surveillance Cell officials said.
Khan Aziz Ahmed, a resident of Orangi Town, died of swine flu at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), said Sindh Influenza Surveillance Cell In-charge Dr Suresh Kumar."
" A 29-year-old man became the first victim of swine flu this year in the city on Monday.Four other patients tested positive for H1N1 (Type-A) Influenza strain in Karachi, bringing the number of such patients to 29 in Sindh this year, Influenza Surveillance Cell officials said.
Khan Aziz Ahmed, a resident of Orangi Town, died of swine flu at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), said Sindh Influenza Surveillance Cell In-charge Dr Suresh Kumar."
South Africa : Cholera case in Eastern Cape
An article from Time Live :
" An 11-month-old baby is in an isolation unit in East London's Cecilia Makiwane Hospital after being diagnosed with cholera, the Eastern Cape health department said.
Spokesman Sizwe Kupelo said the baby came from Kwampundu, northeast of East London.
Health officials had been sent to the village to ensure that the disease does not spread. "
" An 11-month-old baby is in an isolation unit in East London's Cecilia Makiwane Hospital after being diagnosed with cholera, the Eastern Cape health department said.
Spokesman Sizwe Kupelo said the baby came from Kwampundu, northeast of East London.
Health officials had been sent to the village to ensure that the disease does not spread. "
Greece Reports 6 Deaths from A/H1N1 Flu
Via CRI English :
" Greek Health Ministry officials announced on Monday that six confirmed fatalities have been reported across the country so far this year because of the A/H1N1 flu.
Despite the fact that all the deaths occurred over the past week, experts of the Greek Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that the toll is within expectations, as the seasonal flu which contains the dangerous virus strain spreads.
The latest and youngest victim this year is a 14-year-old girl in Athens. For precaution reasons the high school she attended closed down on Monday."
" Greek Health Ministry officials announced on Monday that six confirmed fatalities have been reported across the country so far this year because of the A/H1N1 flu.
Despite the fact that all the deaths occurred over the past week, experts of the Greek Center for Disease Control and Prevention said that the toll is within expectations, as the seasonal flu which contains the dangerous virus strain spreads.
The latest and youngest victim this year is a 14-year-old girl in Athens. For precaution reasons the high school she attended closed down on Monday."
Pakistan : Four more swine flu patients confirmed in Karachi
Via Daily Times :
" KARACHI: Four more swine flu patients were confirmed in Karachi on Monday, raising the number of confirmed cases during the current year to 29.
Incharge Swine Flu Cell Sindh Dr Suresh Kumar said four new swine flu patients were conformed at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi.
He advised people to contact with nearest healthcare centre in case on any type of flu, so that to get proper treatment."
" KARACHI: Four more swine flu patients were confirmed in Karachi on Monday, raising the number of confirmed cases during the current year to 29.
Incharge Swine Flu Cell Sindh Dr Suresh Kumar said four new swine flu patients were conformed at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi.
He advised people to contact with nearest healthcare centre in case on any type of flu, so that to get proper treatment."
Japan : Miyazaki starts 410,000-chicken containment cull
Via The Japan Times :
" MIYAZAKI : The Miyazaki Prefectural Government stepped up its latest bird flu fight Monday after infections were confirmed at a second poultry farm, triggering the culling of about 410,000 chickens in the town of Shintomi late the previous day.
To prevent the highly pathogenic avian flu from spreading further, it asked the Ground Self-Defense Force for disaster relief assistance and received a team of 170 troops from a camp based in the prefecture to help bury the carcasses and perform other work Tuesday.
While it is expected to take several days to kill all the birds and bury them, about 10,000 chickens already culled at a nearby farm in the prefectural capital Miyazaki, where the flu first broke out, are slated to be burned by Monday evening."
" MIYAZAKI : The Miyazaki Prefectural Government stepped up its latest bird flu fight Monday after infections were confirmed at a second poultry farm, triggering the culling of about 410,000 chickens in the town of Shintomi late the previous day.
To prevent the highly pathogenic avian flu from spreading further, it asked the Ground Self-Defense Force for disaster relief assistance and received a team of 170 troops from a camp based in the prefecture to help bury the carcasses and perform other work Tuesday.
While it is expected to take several days to kill all the birds and bury them, about 10,000 chickens already culled at a nearby farm in the prefectural capital Miyazaki, where the flu first broke out, are slated to be burned by Monday evening."
South Korea : Farmers quarantining themselves for New Year
Via Joong Ang Daily :
" Ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, livestock farmers are voluntarily cutting themselves off from their family and friends in fear that visitors might infect their farms with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) or avian influenza A, fencing themselves in, shutting down roads and closing local markets.
Residents of Gaya, Hongseong County, South Chungcheong, have blocked off roads leading to their village to fend off visitors from contagious regions since Jan. 11. Gaya is free of FMD.
Kim Yeong-pal, the 52-year-old head of the village, said, “We are willing to bear more inconveniences if we can successfully fend off the FMD virus.”
" Ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday, livestock farmers are voluntarily cutting themselves off from their family and friends in fear that visitors might infect their farms with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) or avian influenza A, fencing themselves in, shutting down roads and closing local markets.
Residents of Gaya, Hongseong County, South Chungcheong, have blocked off roads leading to their village to fend off visitors from contagious regions since Jan. 11. Gaya is free of FMD.
Kim Yeong-pal, the 52-year-old head of the village, said, “We are willing to bear more inconveniences if we can successfully fend off the FMD virus.”
Hong Kong : Update on flu situation
Another press release from the Centre for Health Protection, this time an update with regards to the flu situation in Hong Kong, excerpt :
" A spokesman for the Centre of Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) has reminded the public to stay vigilant against influenza.
While Hong Kong has entered the winter peak influenza season, the spokesman said influenza activity is expected to increase further during the next few weeks. CHP is closely monitoring influenza activity in the community.
During the week ending January 22, a total of 105 influenza isolates were detected by Public Health Laboratory Centre. The majority (81%) of them were influenza A (H1N1) 2009, followed by influenza A (H3N2) (10%) and influenza B (7%).
The number of influenza-like-illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools increased from 18 in the week ending January 15 to 59 in the week ending January 22. In the first two days of this week (as at 2pm), CHP recorded 10 reports of influenza-like-illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools."
" A spokesman for the Centre of Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) has reminded the public to stay vigilant against influenza.
While Hong Kong has entered the winter peak influenza season, the spokesman said influenza activity is expected to increase further during the next few weeks. CHP is closely monitoring influenza activity in the community.
During the week ending January 22, a total of 105 influenza isolates were detected by Public Health Laboratory Centre. The majority (81%) of them were influenza A (H1N1) 2009, followed by influenza A (H3N2) (10%) and influenza B (7%).
The number of influenza-like-illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools increased from 18 in the week ending January 15 to 59 in the week ending January 22. In the first two days of this week (as at 2pm), CHP recorded 10 reports of influenza-like-illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools."
Hong Kong : Cluster of human swine influenza cases in a male psychiatric ward in Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Press release from the Centre for Health Protection :
" Six patients (aged from 23 to 59) of a male psychiatric ward of the PYNEH have presented with fever and upper respiratory infection symptoms since January 19. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive to human swine influenza. The patients are being treated under isolation and are prescribed with Tamiflu and are in stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended. Restricted visiting to and discharge from the ward have been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
" Six patients (aged from 23 to 59) of a male psychiatric ward of the PYNEH have presented with fever and upper respiratory infection symptoms since January 19. Appropriate viral tests had been arranged for the patients and their test results were positive to human swine influenza. The patients are being treated under isolation and are prescribed with Tamiflu and are in stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended. Restricted visiting to and discharge from the ward have been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
Monday, January 24, 2011
Flu Epidemic Spreads across Bulgaria
Via Novinite :
" A flu epidemic has been declared in Bulgaria's regions of Shumen and Varna on Monday.
A patient in the city of Shumen has been proven to be a case of the so-called swine flu A(H1N1) virus, but is reported to be in good condition. The number of those with flu symptoms in the Black Sea capital of Varna has been steadily going up in the last few days.
According to data from the National Reference Laboratory, 30% of sick persons tested in Sofia carry the A(H1N1) type virus.
This year the flu can lead pneumonia, doctors say, and warn strongly against self-medicating and taking antibiotics.
The flu epidemic status has already been set for the entire Sofia Region, including the capital Sofia, where the number of those having the flu has reached 155 per 1 000, as well as for the Pazardzhik and Vratsa Regions, the cities of Pleven and Blagoevgrad and a number of towns in the Blagoevgrad Region."
" A flu epidemic has been declared in Bulgaria's regions of Shumen and Varna on Monday.
A patient in the city of Shumen has been proven to be a case of the so-called swine flu A(H1N1) virus, but is reported to be in good condition. The number of those with flu symptoms in the Black Sea capital of Varna has been steadily going up in the last few days.
According to data from the National Reference Laboratory, 30% of sick persons tested in Sofia carry the A(H1N1) type virus.
This year the flu can lead pneumonia, doctors say, and warn strongly against self-medicating and taking antibiotics.
The flu epidemic status has already been set for the entire Sofia Region, including the capital Sofia, where the number of those having the flu has reached 155 per 1 000, as well as for the Pazardzhik and Vratsa Regions, the cities of Pleven and Blagoevgrad and a number of towns in the Blagoevgrad Region."
Japan : Japan redoubles efforts to tackle bird flu outbreak in SW region
Via Xinhua :
" TOKYO, Jan. 24 : The Miyazaki Prefectural government on Monday redoubled its efforts to combat the outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus in the prefecture, located on the eastern coast of the island of Kyushu in southwestern Japan.
Following conformation of the virus at a second poultry farm in the area, more culling of chickens is expected after a 410,000 chickens were slaughtered at a farm there on Sunday, local media said.
The local government announced Saturday that a genetic test had detected the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus in six chickens at the Mori Furanjo Omagari Nojo farm in the city of Miyazaki, where dozens of birds were found dead."
" TOKYO, Jan. 24 : The Miyazaki Prefectural government on Monday redoubled its efforts to combat the outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus in the prefecture, located on the eastern coast of the island of Kyushu in southwestern Japan.
Following conformation of the virus at a second poultry farm in the area, more culling of chickens is expected after a 410,000 chickens were slaughtered at a farm there on Sunday, local media said.
The local government announced Saturday that a genetic test had detected the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus in six chickens at the Mori Furanjo Omagari Nojo farm in the city of Miyazaki, where dozens of birds were found dead."
DOH Rushes to Stop Spread of Diarrhea at Siruma
An article from VOX Bikol :
" LEGAZPI CITY : The Department of Health (DOH) regional office here mobilized its health emergency response team to prevent the further spread of the number of persons who were downed by diarrhea which already claimed one death in a remote village of Siruma town in Camarines Sur.
During a Press conference held at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional office here this morning called by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC), Dr. Rose Rempillo of the DOH regional office emergency response team disclosed that a total of 250 persons were initially diagnosed as having been afflicted by diarrhea.
The patients were diagnosed at the DOH field hospital set up in barangay Butawanan an island barangay of Siruma town last Saturday."
" LEGAZPI CITY : The Department of Health (DOH) regional office here mobilized its health emergency response team to prevent the further spread of the number of persons who were downed by diarrhea which already claimed one death in a remote village of Siruma town in Camarines Sur.
During a Press conference held at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) regional office here this morning called by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC), Dr. Rose Rempillo of the DOH regional office emergency response team disclosed that a total of 250 persons were initially diagnosed as having been afflicted by diarrhea.
The patients were diagnosed at the DOH field hospital set up in barangay Butawanan an island barangay of Siruma town last Saturday."
Finland reports 50 new A/H1N1 flu cases
Via People's Daily Online, excerpt :
" About 50 new A/H1N1 flu cases have been reported at a brigade base of the Finnish Defense Forces in Kajaani in central Finland, Finnish media reported Sunday.According to the report, the patients have started to exhibit influenza symptoms since January 10, when this year's new conscripts reported for service.
The results of laboratory test showed that the patients have contracted A/H1N1 flu virus, against which they had not been vaccinated before their military service.
Finland saw its first A/H1N1 flu case of the latest flu season last November, when a conscript at an armored brigade base in southern Finland was confirmed to have been infected with the virus."
" About 50 new A/H1N1 flu cases have been reported at a brigade base of the Finnish Defense Forces in Kajaani in central Finland, Finnish media reported Sunday.According to the report, the patients have started to exhibit influenza symptoms since January 10, when this year's new conscripts reported for service.
The results of laboratory test showed that the patients have contracted A/H1N1 flu virus, against which they had not been vaccinated before their military service.
Finland saw its first A/H1N1 flu case of the latest flu season last November, when a conscript at an armored brigade base in southern Finland was confirmed to have been infected with the virus."
New cases of H1N1 recorded in Algeria
Via Ennahar Online :
" Algiers : Swine flu, or influenza virus A/ H1N1 invaded Algeria, where tens of cases are reported. The vaccine against swine influenza is necessary for children, the elderly and chronically ill.
According to Professor Faouzi Derar, head of the reference center for influenza A/H1N1 at the Pasteur Institute, dozens of cases have been recorded in Algeria during the past week. Medical tests for influenza virus A/H1N1 have been positive. The virus, brought from abroad, spreads quickly.
Professor Derar warns against deaths whenever the vaccine is not made and if the spread of this deadly virus is not prevented on time."
" Algiers : Swine flu, or influenza virus A/ H1N1 invaded Algeria, where tens of cases are reported. The vaccine against swine influenza is necessary for children, the elderly and chronically ill.
According to Professor Faouzi Derar, head of the reference center for influenza A/H1N1 at the Pasteur Institute, dozens of cases have been recorded in Algeria during the past week. Medical tests for influenza virus A/H1N1 have been positive. The virus, brought from abroad, spreads quickly.
Professor Derar warns against deaths whenever the vaccine is not made and if the spread of this deadly virus is not prevented on time."
Dominican Republic reports first cholera death
An AFP report hosted by Google News :
" SANTO DOMINGO : Officials in the Dominican Republic on Sunday reported the first death from a cholera outbreak that had spread from neighboring Haiti, local media said.
Health officials were quoted as saying the victim had been in Haiti and lived in the Dominican city of Higuey.
A health ministry statement said Renauld Francois, 53, died Thursday, and that an autopsy would be performed to learn the exact cause of death but that his symptoms were "consistent with the disease."
The Dominican Republic has reported 152 cases of cholera since the outbreak in Haiti last year."
" SANTO DOMINGO : Officials in the Dominican Republic on Sunday reported the first death from a cholera outbreak that had spread from neighboring Haiti, local media said.
Health officials were quoted as saying the victim had been in Haiti and lived in the Dominican city of Higuey.
A health ministry statement said Renauld Francois, 53, died Thursday, and that an autopsy would be performed to learn the exact cause of death but that his symptoms were "consistent with the disease."
The Dominican Republic has reported 152 cases of cholera since the outbreak in Haiti last year."
Russia : Soldier dies of flu A/H1N1 at Chelyabinsk regional hospital
An article from ITAR-TASS News Agency :
" MOSCOW, January 23 : A soldier of active service from a unit of the Yekaterinburg Air Force and Air Defence formation of the Central Military District died on January 21 of flu A/H1N1 (California) at the Chelyabinsk regional hospital.
He had been earlier treated at a district military hospital, Itar-Tass learnt from spokesman of the public relations service of the Russian Defence Ministry.
“On January 13, the type of the disease was confirmed with laboratory investigations by specialists of the Chelyabinsk Centre of Hygiene and Preventive Measures. Doctors failed to save the soldier despite measures of intensive therapy, taken by civil and military medics,” the service noted.
The public relations service explained that the soldier was called up for military service on last December 20 from the Kemerovo Region. "
" MOSCOW, January 23 : A soldier of active service from a unit of the Yekaterinburg Air Force and Air Defence formation of the Central Military District died on January 21 of flu A/H1N1 (California) at the Chelyabinsk regional hospital.
He had been earlier treated at a district military hospital, Itar-Tass learnt from spokesman of the public relations service of the Russian Defence Ministry.
“On January 13, the type of the disease was confirmed with laboratory investigations by specialists of the Chelyabinsk Centre of Hygiene and Preventive Measures. Doctors failed to save the soldier despite measures of intensive therapy, taken by civil and military medics,” the service noted.
The public relations service explained that the soldier was called up for military service on last December 20 from the Kemerovo Region. "
Egyptian doctor dies of swine flu
Via Kuna :
" CAIRO, Jan 23 : An Egyptian doctor has died of swine flu, the Ministry of Health said Sunday.It said the 51-year-old doctor, from Al-Sharqiya district, northern Cairo, did not ask for medical advice when symptoms appeared had taken medication for flu by himself, Ministry spokesman Dr. Abdulrahman Shaheen said in a statement.
He said the doctor, whose name was not disclosed, was given Tamiflu but five days after symptoms started to appear.He explained that the deceased was suffering from a chronic chest inflamation caused by heavy smoking."
" CAIRO, Jan 23 : An Egyptian doctor has died of swine flu, the Ministry of Health said Sunday.It said the 51-year-old doctor, from Al-Sharqiya district, northern Cairo, did not ask for medical advice when symptoms appeared had taken medication for flu by himself, Ministry spokesman Dr. Abdulrahman Shaheen said in a statement.
He said the doctor, whose name was not disclosed, was given Tamiflu but five days after symptoms started to appear.He explained that the deceased was suffering from a chronic chest inflamation caused by heavy smoking."
Japan : Another Miyazaki farm turns up bird flu cases
From The Japan Times :
" MIYAZAKI : Bird flu appeared to hit another farm Sunday in Miyazaki Prefecture after five of six chickens tested from it yielded positive preliminary readings for a highly pathogenic virus, the prefectural government said.
The tests were held after 20 chickens were found dead at a farm in Shintomi, a town close to the city of Miyazaki, where six chickens at a separate farm were confirmed Saturday to have the H5 bird flu strain.
The farm in Shintomi, which raises about 66,000 chickens for eggs, would be the third poultry farm hit in the autumn and winter seasons following one that had to be sterilized in November in Shimane Prefecture, and the one in Miyazaki forced to cull all its roughly 10,000 chickens Saturday."
" MIYAZAKI : Bird flu appeared to hit another farm Sunday in Miyazaki Prefecture after five of six chickens tested from it yielded positive preliminary readings for a highly pathogenic virus, the prefectural government said.
The tests were held after 20 chickens were found dead at a farm in Shintomi, a town close to the city of Miyazaki, where six chickens at a separate farm were confirmed Saturday to have the H5 bird flu strain.
The farm in Shintomi, which raises about 66,000 chickens for eggs, would be the third poultry farm hit in the autumn and winter seasons following one that had to be sterilized in November in Shimane Prefecture, and the one in Miyazaki forced to cull all its roughly 10,000 chickens Saturday."
Malaysia : Johor reports 111 new dengue cases
Via The Star :
" JOHOR BARU: Johor has recorded an increase in dengue cases in the second week of the year compared to the same corresponding period in 2010.
The state Health Department vector unit reported a total of 111 new dengue cases compared to 95 cases last year.
It is the second highest for the week among the states.
The unit’s insect studies department officer Mazlan Mohd Isa said in the first week of this year alone, a total of 50 dengue cases were recorded.
“The trend is worrying as we received reports of dengue cases almost every day,” he said during an anti-dengue seminar at Hospital Sultan Ismail here yesterday.
Mazlan said among the hotspots were Gelang Patah, Kampung Merdeka in Batu Pahat, Taman Molek and Taman Desa Cemerlang in Johor Baru."
" JOHOR BARU: Johor has recorded an increase in dengue cases in the second week of the year compared to the same corresponding period in 2010.
The state Health Department vector unit reported a total of 111 new dengue cases compared to 95 cases last year.
It is the second highest for the week among the states.
The unit’s insect studies department officer Mazlan Mohd Isa said in the first week of this year alone, a total of 50 dengue cases were recorded.
“The trend is worrying as we received reports of dengue cases almost every day,” he said during an anti-dengue seminar at Hospital Sultan Ismail here yesterday.
Mazlan said among the hotspots were Gelang Patah, Kampung Merdeka in Batu Pahat, Taman Molek and Taman Desa Cemerlang in Johor Baru."
Hong Kong : Public urged to stay vigilant against influenza
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (CHP) today (January 23) urged members of the public to be vigilant against influenza upon receipt of notification of a serious case of confirmed Influenza A affecting an eight-month-old baby boy.
The boy presented with fever and cough since January 13 and was admitted to a private hospital the next day. His fever persisted and he was transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on January 21 for further treatment. He is currently in the paediatric intensive care in serious condition.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen tested positive for Influenza A. Further test is on-going.
The boy’s close contacts had symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and had recovered uneventfully after seeking medical consultation.
A spokesman for CHP reminded members of the public to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures against influenza."
" The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (CHP) today (January 23) urged members of the public to be vigilant against influenza upon receipt of notification of a serious case of confirmed Influenza A affecting an eight-month-old baby boy.
The boy presented with fever and cough since January 13 and was admitted to a private hospital the next day. His fever persisted and he was transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on January 21 for further treatment. He is currently in the paediatric intensive care in serious condition.
His nasopharyngeal aspirate specimen tested positive for Influenza A. Further test is on-going.
The boy’s close contacts had symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and had recovered uneventfully after seeking medical consultation.
A spokesman for CHP reminded members of the public to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures against influenza."
India : Two more get Congo fever in Gujarat
An article from DNA India :
" Two more cases of the Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), which has already claimed three lives in Ahmedabad in the past fortnight, were detected on Friday, taking the number of confirmed cases to five.
While one of them is the husband of CCHF’s first victim Ameena Momin, the second is a male nurse at Shalby Hospital, where patients of the near-fatal infection were treated earlier.
The national institute of virology, Pune confirmed that Prashant Joy, 23, working in Shalby Hospital, was infected with the virus."
" Two more cases of the Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), which has already claimed three lives in Ahmedabad in the past fortnight, were detected on Friday, taking the number of confirmed cases to five.
While one of them is the husband of CCHF’s first victim Ameena Momin, the second is a male nurse at Shalby Hospital, where patients of the near-fatal infection were treated earlier.
The national institute of virology, Pune confirmed that Prashant Joy, 23, working in Shalby Hospital, was infected with the virus."
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Zambia : Cholera is back, woman reported dead
Via UK Zambians :
" Cholera has broken out in Sinazongwe district in Southern Province. One woman is reported to have died while 31 others have been admitted to Sinamalima clinic.
Sinazongwe Acting Commissioner Sokoloku Daka has confirmed the development to ZANIS.
Mr. Daka says the woman died last night.
He says samples taken from those admitted confirmed that four had Cholera.
Mr Daka says Sinazongwe District Medical Officer Dr Elias Chipandwe and his team have since rushed to the area to contain the outbreak."
" Cholera has broken out in Sinazongwe district in Southern Province. One woman is reported to have died while 31 others have been admitted to Sinamalima clinic.
Sinazongwe Acting Commissioner Sokoloku Daka has confirmed the development to ZANIS.
Mr. Daka says the woman died last night.
He says samples taken from those admitted confirmed that four had Cholera.
Mr Daka says Sinazongwe District Medical Officer Dr Elias Chipandwe and his team have since rushed to the area to contain the outbreak."
Young child among eleven H1N1 flu deaths in Jordan
An article from Island Crisis :
" AMMAN : A four-year-old Jordanian girl died of A/H1N1 influenza on Saturday, bringing the total number of flu fatalities this season to 11, Jordan’s Ministry of Health said.
The girl, who suffered from a chronic hereditary disease, was admitted to the Prince Hamzah Hospital in a very critical condition and died days later after receiving treatment, the Al Ghad newspaper reported.
According to an official from the ministry, the number of A/H1N1 flu cases has reached 181 since the discovery of the first case in early December 2010. The ministry called on citizens to follow prevention methods, especially groups with higher risk, like children, the elderly and the chronically ill."
" AMMAN : A four-year-old Jordanian girl died of A/H1N1 influenza on Saturday, bringing the total number of flu fatalities this season to 11, Jordan’s Ministry of Health said.
The girl, who suffered from a chronic hereditary disease, was admitted to the Prince Hamzah Hospital in a very critical condition and died days later after receiving treatment, the Al Ghad newspaper reported.
According to an official from the ministry, the number of A/H1N1 flu cases has reached 181 since the discovery of the first case in early December 2010. The ministry called on citizens to follow prevention methods, especially groups with higher risk, like children, the elderly and the chronically ill."
Japan : Tests spur Miyazaki chicken cull
Via The Japan Times :
" MIYAZAKI : The Miyazaki Prefectural Government said Saturday that six chickens from a poultry farm in the capital have been confirmed to have a highly pathogenic flu virus, prompting the central government to convene a task force.
The outbreak is the second to hit a poultry farm during the autumn and winter seasons since the November outbreak in Shimane Prefecture. Wild and free-range birds infected with the highly virulent H5N1 bird flu have been surfacing in Hokkaido and Tottori, Kagoshima and Fukushima prefectures since October. On Saturday, Hokkaido officials said the virus had also been detected in a weakened swan found in the town of Hamanaka.
The finding in Miyazaki is yet another blow to the prefecture's livestock industry, which was hit by bird flu in 2007 and a foot-and-mouth epidemic last year that led to the slaughter of about 290,000 cows and pigs."
" MIYAZAKI : The Miyazaki Prefectural Government said Saturday that six chickens from a poultry farm in the capital have been confirmed to have a highly pathogenic flu virus, prompting the central government to convene a task force.
The outbreak is the second to hit a poultry farm during the autumn and winter seasons since the November outbreak in Shimane Prefecture. Wild and free-range birds infected with the highly virulent H5N1 bird flu have been surfacing in Hokkaido and Tottori, Kagoshima and Fukushima prefectures since October. On Saturday, Hokkaido officials said the virus had also been detected in a weakened swan found in the town of Hamanaka.
The finding in Miyazaki is yet another blow to the prefecture's livestock industry, which was hit by bird flu in 2007 and a foot-and-mouth epidemic last year that led to the slaughter of about 290,000 cows and pigs."
Indonesia : Dengue Threat for Jakarta as More Rain On the Way
Via The Jakarta Globe :
" Jakarta : As heavy rain caused havoc on Jakarta’s roads on Friday, city officials warned that more was to come, and asked residents to take adequate precautions against dengue fever.
Hamid, a forecaster at the Meteorological, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), said to expect a wet weekend, with medium rainfall predicted in Tangerang, Bogor and Depok as well as West, North and Central Jakarta.
The Jakarta Police’s Traffic Management Center said Friday’s rainfall caused surface flooding 20 centimeters to 30 centimeters deep on Jalan Gunung Sahari in Central Jakarta, reducing traffic to a crawl."
" Jakarta : As heavy rain caused havoc on Jakarta’s roads on Friday, city officials warned that more was to come, and asked residents to take adequate precautions against dengue fever.
Hamid, a forecaster at the Meteorological, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), said to expect a wet weekend, with medium rainfall predicted in Tangerang, Bogor and Depok as well as West, North and Central Jakarta.
The Jakarta Police’s Traffic Management Center said Friday’s rainfall caused surface flooding 20 centimeters to 30 centimeters deep on Jalan Gunung Sahari in Central Jakarta, reducing traffic to a crawl."
Friday, January 21, 2011
Hong Kong : Large-billed Crow tests positive for H5N1 virus
Press release from Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" Under the present avian influenza surveillance programme on dead wild birds, test results available today (January 21) showed that a dead Large-billed Crow found in Tai O was confirmed to be H5N1 positive, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said.
The bird carcass was collected at Sun Ki Street, Tai O on January 18. It was highly decomposed when found and required a series of tests before avian influenza was confirmed today.
The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found. The Large-billed Crow is a common resident bird in Hong Kong.
In addition, a dead Oriental Magpie Robin collected on January 17 near a refuse collection point at Fairview Park, Yuen Long was also confirmed to be H5N1 positive after laboratory testing.
The spokesman said all relevant government departments would continue to remain highly vigilant and strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.
The AFCD has phoned poultry farmers to remind them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Letters have been issued to farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken."
" Under the present avian influenza surveillance programme on dead wild birds, test results available today (January 21) showed that a dead Large-billed Crow found in Tai O was confirmed to be H5N1 positive, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said.
The bird carcass was collected at Sun Ki Street, Tai O on January 18. It was highly decomposed when found and required a series of tests before avian influenza was confirmed today.
The spokesman said there were no poultry farms within three kilometres of where the dead bird was found. The Large-billed Crow is a common resident bird in Hong Kong.
In addition, a dead Oriental Magpie Robin collected on January 17 near a refuse collection point at Fairview Park, Yuen Long was also confirmed to be H5N1 positive after laboratory testing.
The spokesman said all relevant government departments would continue to remain highly vigilant and strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.
The AFCD has phoned poultry farmers to remind them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Letters have been issued to farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken."
US : CDC uses surveillance to track influenza
Via UPI :
" ATLANTA, Jan. 20 : U.S. health officials say they used community-based surveillance -- telephone inquiries -- to track influenza-like illness during the 2009-2010 flu season.
Thursday's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report said most influenza surveillance is done in hospitals or doctor's offices, where cases can be tracked and some are confirmed through testing, but this study monitored influenza-like illness by calling people at home and asking them questions about their symptoms."
" ATLANTA, Jan. 20 : U.S. health officials say they used community-based surveillance -- telephone inquiries -- to track influenza-like illness during the 2009-2010 flu season.
Thursday's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report said most influenza surveillance is done in hospitals or doctor's offices, where cases can be tracked and some are confirmed through testing, but this study monitored influenza-like illness by calling people at home and asking them questions about their symptoms."
Ireland : Nine more flu deaths but peak may have passed
Via Irish Times :
" THE DEATHS of four more people in the Republic from influenza were confirmed yesterday but the number of new cases of flu-like illness in the community has fallen.
Five more flu deaths were also reported in Northern Ireland, where the chief medical officer warned more people were likely to die, even though it is hoped the number of cases has peaked.
In the Republic, some 7,700 cases of flu have been recorded in the last week, according to figures from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), down from 9,000 cases a week earlier.
Almost 80 per cent of the cases diagnosed in the last seven days were of human swine flu.
The rate of infection fell from 200 cases to 173 cases per 100,000 of population. However, the rate among younger people has increased significantly, with 213 cases occurring per 100,000 in the zero to four age group."
" THE DEATHS of four more people in the Republic from influenza were confirmed yesterday but the number of new cases of flu-like illness in the community has fallen.
Five more flu deaths were also reported in Northern Ireland, where the chief medical officer warned more people were likely to die, even though it is hoped the number of cases has peaked.
In the Republic, some 7,700 cases of flu have been recorded in the last week, according to figures from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), down from 9,000 cases a week earlier.
Almost 80 per cent of the cases diagnosed in the last seven days were of human swine flu.
The rate of infection fell from 200 cases to 173 cases per 100,000 of population. However, the rate among younger people has increased significantly, with 213 cases occurring per 100,000 in the zero to four age group."
WHO : Avian influenza - situation in Egypt - update 42
An update to the AI situation in Egypt by WHO :
" 20 January 2011 : The Ministry of Health of Egypt has announced a new case of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza. A 1-year-old male from Alexandria Governorate, developed symptoms on 12 January and was hospitalized on 13 January.
He is in a stable condition.
Investigations into the source of infection indicated that the case had exposure to poultry.
The case was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratories, a National Influenza Center of the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance Network (GISN). "
" 20 January 2011 : The Ministry of Health of Egypt has announced a new case of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza. A 1-year-old male from Alexandria Governorate, developed symptoms on 12 January and was hospitalized on 13 January.
He is in a stable condition.
Investigations into the source of infection indicated that the case had exposure to poultry.
The case was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratories, a National Influenza Center of the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance Network (GISN). "
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Zambia : Malaria hits Kaputa district
An article from Lusaka Times :
" Kaputa district in the Northern Province has been hit with a serious malaria epidemic, raising concern among medical staff in the district.
The district has so far recorded 1, 927 cases of malaria with 62 deaths recorded between October 2010 and December the same year.
This is according to statistics submitted to the District Health Office by four of the 12 health centers in the district.
Kaputa District Director of Health Michael Musonda described the situation as serious saying urgent action needs to be taken to ensure that the situation is put under control.
Dr. Musonda disclosed that the Malaria Control Centre in Lusaka has since donated over 66, 000 mosquito nets to be distributed to members of the community in Kaputa district in an effort to curb the situation."
" Kaputa district in the Northern Province has been hit with a serious malaria epidemic, raising concern among medical staff in the district.
The district has so far recorded 1, 927 cases of malaria with 62 deaths recorded between October 2010 and December the same year.
This is according to statistics submitted to the District Health Office by four of the 12 health centers in the district.
Kaputa District Director of Health Michael Musonda described the situation as serious saying urgent action needs to be taken to ensure that the situation is put under control.
Dr. Musonda disclosed that the Malaria Control Centre in Lusaka has since donated over 66, 000 mosquito nets to be distributed to members of the community in Kaputa district in an effort to curb the situation."
Japan : Bird flu detected in 2 wild duck corpses at Fukushima reservoir
Via The Mainichi Daily News :
" KORIYAMA, Fukushima : Highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu has been detected in the corpses of two migratory wild ducks found at a reservoir here, prefectural authorities announced on Jan. 19.
From Jan. 4 to Jan. 10, the prefecture gathered seven bird corpses from the reservoir and sent them for testing at the National Institute for Environmental Studies in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture. Four of the corpses tested positive for Type-A influenza, and further investigation at Hokkaido University in Sapporo found that two had the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu. The other two are still being investigated.
The prefecture set up a response center on Jan. 19 and on the morning of Jan. 20 began sending inspectors clad in protective suits to 59 poultry farms in a 10-kilometer radius area under supervision that includes neighboring towns. The inspectors are interviewing farmers, looking for signs of contagion such as changes in the death or egg-laying rates of chickens, and checking that farms have anti-contagion measures in place such as nets to keep out wild birds and supplies of disinfectant on hand."
" KORIYAMA, Fukushima : Highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu has been detected in the corpses of two migratory wild ducks found at a reservoir here, prefectural authorities announced on Jan. 19.
From Jan. 4 to Jan. 10, the prefecture gathered seven bird corpses from the reservoir and sent them for testing at the National Institute for Environmental Studies in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture. Four of the corpses tested positive for Type-A influenza, and further investigation at Hokkaido University in Sapporo found that two had the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu. The other two are still being investigated.
The prefecture set up a response center on Jan. 19 and on the morning of Jan. 20 began sending inspectors clad in protective suits to 59 poultry farms in a 10-kilometer radius area under supervision that includes neighboring towns. The inspectors are interviewing farmers, looking for signs of contagion such as changes in the death or egg-laying rates of chickens, and checking that farms have anti-contagion measures in place such as nets to keep out wild birds and supplies of disinfectant on hand."
Northern Ireland : NI swine flu deaths reach 21
Via RTE News :
" The number of swine flu-related deaths in Northern Ireland since the beginning of flu season in November has reached 21.
The number of swine flu-related deaths in Northern Ireland since the beginning of flu season in November has reached 21.
Four people, including a 10-month-old baby, have died from the H1N1 virus since Northern Ireland's Public Health Agency's last briefing a week ago."
" The number of swine flu-related deaths in Northern Ireland since the beginning of flu season in November has reached 21.
The number of swine flu-related deaths in Northern Ireland since the beginning of flu season in November has reached 21.
Four people, including a 10-month-old baby, have died from the H1N1 virus since Northern Ireland's Public Health Agency's last briefing a week ago."
Officers blamed as pneumonia outbreaks hit Russian army
From Xinhua :
" MOSCOW, Jan. 20 : Officers were to blame for a pneumonia outbreak that killed one soldier and hospitalized 63 in western Russia's Chelyabinsk region, the Prosecutor General's Office said Thursday.
"The Military Prosecutor's Office of the Volga-Urals Military District investigated the reasons behind high disease rates among servicemen there. It found that certain officers have failed to fulfill their duties properly to guard the life and health of their soldiers," Interfax news agency quoted the Prosecutor's Office as saying.
According to the prosecutors, the officers of the Chebarkul garrison failed to isolate ill soldiers quickly enough, did not provide them with necessary medical aid or take preventive measures among the garrison's personnel when the first pneumonia cases were reported there in December and January."
" MOSCOW, Jan. 20 : Officers were to blame for a pneumonia outbreak that killed one soldier and hospitalized 63 in western Russia's Chelyabinsk region, the Prosecutor General's Office said Thursday.
"The Military Prosecutor's Office of the Volga-Urals Military District investigated the reasons behind high disease rates among servicemen there. It found that certain officers have failed to fulfill their duties properly to guard the life and health of their soldiers," Interfax news agency quoted the Prosecutor's Office as saying.
According to the prosecutors, the officers of the Chebarkul garrison failed to isolate ill soldiers quickly enough, did not provide them with necessary medical aid or take preventive measures among the garrison's personnel when the first pneumonia cases were reported there in December and January."
Myanmar : Chickens Culled After Bird Flu Found in Sittwe
An article from Narinjara :
" Sittwe: Over 1,000 chickens have been culled in Sittwe Township in Arakan State after a tough strain of H5N1 virus was detected at a poultry farm, officials and a witness report.
The latest infection was detected on 12 January at a poultry farm in Bumay Village Tract in Sittwe, the capital of Arakan State, after all the chickens died unexpectedly.
A witness said, "Many chickens from around ten poultry farms in Tae Chaung Village were culled on Monday. The culling was conducted by the health department. I'd guess over 1,000 chickens were killed by the authority."
" Sittwe: Over 1,000 chickens have been culled in Sittwe Township in Arakan State after a tough strain of H5N1 virus was detected at a poultry farm, officials and a witness report.
The latest infection was detected on 12 January at a poultry farm in Bumay Village Tract in Sittwe, the capital of Arakan State, after all the chickens died unexpectedly.
A witness said, "Many chickens from around ten poultry farms in Tae Chaung Village were culled on Monday. The culling was conducted by the health department. I'd guess over 1,000 chickens were killed by the authority."
Pakistan : HFH receives three more suspects
Via The News :
" The Holy Family Hospital (HFH) received three more suspects of swine influenza (swine flu) here on Wednesday whose swaps were sent to the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, for confirmatory tests. “We received another three patients with symptoms of swine flu on Wednesday and after suspecting them to be patients of the infection, the HFH has sent their samples to the NIH for confirmation,” said Infection Control Committee at Holy Family Hospital In-charge Dr. Javed Hayat while talking to ‘The News’.
He added that the three suspects are being kept in isolation. Earlier, the HFH received a total of four patients of the infection, of which two were tested positive while two negative by the NIH. “Of the two confirmed patients of swine flu, one died while the other, who is stable, has been undergoing treatment in the hospital,” he said.
Throughout Pakistan, there is a continued increase in laboratory-confirmed cases of the swine influenza infections and keeping this in mind, the health experts have started stressing on the need for creating awareness among the public on its prevention. Experts believe that if preventive measures are not taken well in time, the country might have to deal with a serious situation."
" The Holy Family Hospital (HFH) received three more suspects of swine influenza (swine flu) here on Wednesday whose swaps were sent to the National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, for confirmatory tests. “We received another three patients with symptoms of swine flu on Wednesday and after suspecting them to be patients of the infection, the HFH has sent their samples to the NIH for confirmation,” said Infection Control Committee at Holy Family Hospital In-charge Dr. Javed Hayat while talking to ‘The News’.
He added that the three suspects are being kept in isolation. Earlier, the HFH received a total of four patients of the infection, of which two were tested positive while two negative by the NIH. “Of the two confirmed patients of swine flu, one died while the other, who is stable, has been undergoing treatment in the hospital,” he said.
Throughout Pakistan, there is a continued increase in laboratory-confirmed cases of the swine influenza infections and keeping this in mind, the health experts have started stressing on the need for creating awareness among the public on its prevention. Experts believe that if preventive measures are not taken well in time, the country might have to deal with a serious situation."
Canada : 13th patient confirmed dead in C. difficile outbreak at Hamilton hospital
An article from The Winnipeg Free Press :
" HAMILTON : The president of a Hamilton hospital is confirming the death of a 13th patient due to an outbreak of the C. difficile superbug.
Dr. David Higgins, who heads St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, says the patient died Tuesday.
Higgins says that since the outbreak was declared Nov. 1, there have been 62 hospital-acquired cases.
He says there have also been another 37 cases that were acquired outside the hospital.
Higgins says the hospital has been working hard to control the outbreak using a "three-pronged approach."
That involves "rigorous" cleaning of the entire facility, enhancing hand hygiene among staff and a review of antibiotic use."
" HAMILTON : The president of a Hamilton hospital is confirming the death of a 13th patient due to an outbreak of the C. difficile superbug.
Dr. David Higgins, who heads St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, says the patient died Tuesday.
Higgins says that since the outbreak was declared Nov. 1, there have been 62 hospital-acquired cases.
He says there have also been another 37 cases that were acquired outside the hospital.
Higgins says the hospital has been working hard to control the outbreak using a "three-pronged approach."
That involves "rigorous" cleaning of the entire facility, enhancing hand hygiene among staff and a review of antibiotic use."
Philippines : Baby dies of diarrhea, 250 ill in Camarines Sur village
Via Inquirer :
" LEGAZPI CITY : A nine-month-old baby died of diarrhea while 250 other persons were found ill in a village in Siruma town in Camarines Sur, regional health and disaster officials said Wednesday.
An epidemiology team sent by the Department of Health to Barangay Butawanan found that out of the 450 residents being examined on site, 250 tested positive for diarrhea and were undergoing treatment, said Dr. Rose Rempillo DOH assistant regional director.
Butawanan has a total population of 4,000 with 900 households."
" LEGAZPI CITY : A nine-month-old baby died of diarrhea while 250 other persons were found ill in a village in Siruma town in Camarines Sur, regional health and disaster officials said Wednesday.
An epidemiology team sent by the Department of Health to Barangay Butawanan found that out of the 450 residents being examined on site, 250 tested positive for diarrhea and were undergoing treatment, said Dr. Rose Rempillo DOH assistant regional director.
Butawanan has a total population of 4,000 with 900 households."
India : NIV sounds alert on new virus
Via Times of India :
" PUNE: The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has alerted medical establishments in the state to keep an eye on any case of dengue showing unusually serious clinical manifestation to rule out the presence of the newly-identified virus, initial infection signs of which bear resemblance to dengue haemorrhagic fever. However, unlike dengue, the Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) virus is highly infectious and carries a mortality rate of up to 90 per cent, which is very high. The virus, isolated and identified by the NIV on Monday, has claimed three lives in Gujarat in the last 15 days.
"This for the first time that the virus has been identified in India. Considering the highly infectious nature of the virus, it is extremely important to be vigilant. Precaution is the key to keep the virus at bay," A C Mishra, director of NIV told TOI on Wednesday."
" PUNE: The National Institute of Virology (NIV) has alerted medical establishments in the state to keep an eye on any case of dengue showing unusually serious clinical manifestation to rule out the presence of the newly-identified virus, initial infection signs of which bear resemblance to dengue haemorrhagic fever. However, unlike dengue, the Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) virus is highly infectious and carries a mortality rate of up to 90 per cent, which is very high. The virus, isolated and identified by the NIV on Monday, has claimed three lives in Gujarat in the last 15 days.
"This for the first time that the virus has been identified in India. Considering the highly infectious nature of the virus, it is extremely important to be vigilant. Precaution is the key to keep the virus at bay," A C Mishra, director of NIV told TOI on Wednesday."
Australia : Townsville residents bring back dengue fever from overseas
An article from ABC News :
" The Townsville City Council (TCC) says two residents have returned home in the past week after contracting dengue fever in Bali.
The TCC will closely monitor the impact of the two imported cases after detecting 30 locally-transmitted infections last month.
Councillor Dale Last says residents need to constantly check to make sure their properties are not breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
"Back into the new year and as people come back from holidays, we really need to keep a close eye on that because we're getting, as you know, wet weather basically every day so it makes it even more important for people to be conducting those checks on a weekly basis," he said."
" The Townsville City Council (TCC) says two residents have returned home in the past week after contracting dengue fever in Bali.
The TCC will closely monitor the impact of the two imported cases after detecting 30 locally-transmitted infections last month.
Councillor Dale Last says residents need to constantly check to make sure their properties are not breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
"Back into the new year and as people come back from holidays, we really need to keep a close eye on that because we're getting, as you know, wet weather basically every day so it makes it even more important for people to be conducting those checks on a weekly basis," he said."
New Zealand : Fifteen died from swine flu in 2010
Via TVNZ :
" Fifteen New Zealanders died from swine-flu related illnesses last year flu experts said today, urging people not to skip the flu vaccine in the approach to winter.
The National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG) also urged GPs to order vaccine now, the magazine Doctor reported.
NISG said it was concerned that complacent New Zealanders might skip the flu shots this year."
" Fifteen New Zealanders died from swine-flu related illnesses last year flu experts said today, urging people not to skip the flu vaccine in the approach to winter.
The National Influenza Strategy Group (NISG) also urged GPs to order vaccine now, the magazine Doctor reported.
NISG said it was concerned that complacent New Zealanders might skip the flu shots this year."
Eight A/H1N1 cases recorded in Gaza
Via Xinhua :
" GAZA, Jan. 19 : The Hamas Health Ministry on Wednesday announced that eight A/H1N1 cases have been recorded in the Gaza Strip.
Health Minister Bassem Na'im told reporters that nurses and workers in hospitals were among the cases, adding that some of them caught the virus through infection.
A week ago, a 37-year-old pregnant woman died of the influenza in Gaza. Hospital officials said the woman's immunity was already weak due to a chronic disease in the respiratory system."
" GAZA, Jan. 19 : The Hamas Health Ministry on Wednesday announced that eight A/H1N1 cases have been recorded in the Gaza Strip.
Health Minister Bassem Na'im told reporters that nurses and workers in hospitals were among the cases, adding that some of them caught the virus through infection.
A week ago, a 37-year-old pregnant woman died of the influenza in Gaza. Hospital officials said the woman's immunity was already weak due to a chronic disease in the respiratory system."
India : Hemorrhagic fever claims 3 lives in western India
Via Associated Press :
" AHMADABAD, India : An Ebola-like hemorrhagic fever has killed three people in western India and dozens of doctors will screen a community of about 16,000 people in efforts to contain the disease, a state health minister said Wednesday."
" AHMADABAD, India : An Ebola-like hemorrhagic fever has killed three people in western India and dozens of doctors will screen a community of about 16,000 people in efforts to contain the disease, a state health minister said Wednesday."
Vietnam : Pregnant woman contracted swine flu
An article from Vietnam Net, excerpt :
" The Ministry of Health has issued a fresh swine-flu alert after new cases were detected in Hanoi and HCM City last week.
In HCM City, two women in District 8 and a 24-year-old woman who returned from Malaysia have been infected with swine flu.
A 24-year-old pregnant woman tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus after being admitted to the Hanoi-based Central Hospital for Tropical Diseases last week with fever and cough. She is now in a stable condition, doctors said, adding that her relatives are being closely monitored for signs of infection.
Dr. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Preventative Health Agency, warned people to be aware of flu-like symptoms. Moreover, the world authorities have reported that a re-occurrence of swine flu is about to happen,similar to the one that has killed over 100 people in the United Kingdom recently.
Binh said that in Vietnam there has been an increase of swine flu cases, with three recorded this month. The percentage of H1N1 infection cases now accounts for 10 percent of all flu infections. However, all cases have been very slight and no new cases of the virus have been reported recently."
" The Ministry of Health has issued a fresh swine-flu alert after new cases were detected in Hanoi and HCM City last week.
In HCM City, two women in District 8 and a 24-year-old woman who returned from Malaysia have been infected with swine flu.
A 24-year-old pregnant woman tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus after being admitted to the Hanoi-based Central Hospital for Tropical Diseases last week with fever and cough. She is now in a stable condition, doctors said, adding that her relatives are being closely monitored for signs of infection.
Dr. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Preventative Health Agency, warned people to be aware of flu-like symptoms. Moreover, the world authorities have reported that a re-occurrence of swine flu is about to happen,similar to the one that has killed over 100 people in the United Kingdom recently.
Binh said that in Vietnam there has been an increase of swine flu cases, with three recorded this month. The percentage of H1N1 infection cases now accounts for 10 percent of all flu infections. However, all cases have been very slight and no new cases of the virus have been reported recently."
UK : Woman, 45, killed by swine flu
Via The Evening Express :
" A WOMAN has died after being struck down with swine flu, the Evening Express can reveal today.
Tributes were paid to Alyson Reid, 45, of Stonehaven, who died after contracting the H1N1 virus."
" A WOMAN has died after being struck down with swine flu, the Evening Express can reveal today.
Tributes were paid to Alyson Reid, 45, of Stonehaven, who died after contracting the H1N1 virus."
Swine flu back in Vietnam metro
Via Thanh Nien News :
" After a lull of several months, the H1N1 virus has reemerged in Ho Chi Minh City, infecting three women, the city's Tropical Diseases Hospital said Saturday.
The patients have been admitted to the hospital with fever and cough symptoms, doctors from the hospital said.
One of them, 24-year-old L.T.T has been discharged from the hospital, while two others, 22-year-old N.T.H.N. and N.T.M.T., who are still under treatment, are in stable health, the doctors said."
" After a lull of several months, the H1N1 virus has reemerged in Ho Chi Minh City, infecting three women, the city's Tropical Diseases Hospital said Saturday.
The patients have been admitted to the hospital with fever and cough symptoms, doctors from the hospital said.
One of them, 24-year-old L.T.T has been discharged from the hospital, while two others, 22-year-old N.T.H.N. and N.T.M.T., who are still under treatment, are in stable health, the doctors said."
Hong Kong : Two influenza-like-illness outbreaks
Another press release from the Centre for Health Protection in Hong Kong :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 19) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal followed CHP's receipt of notifications of influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreaks from an institution in Lai Chi Kok and a primary school in Yuen Long, affecting a total of 44 people.
In the first case, the affected included 24 men aged between 21 and 58. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, beginning January 11. All of them sought medical attention and no hospitalisation was required. Throat swabs of two affected persons tested positive for influenza A virus subtype H1 (human swine influenza).
In the second case, the affected students, comprising 11 males and nine females, were aged between seven and 10. They developed similar respiratory tract infection symptoms, beginning January 6. None required hospitalisation.
All the affected are in stable condition."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 19) reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal followed CHP's receipt of notifications of influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreaks from an institution in Lai Chi Kok and a primary school in Yuen Long, affecting a total of 44 people.
In the first case, the affected included 24 men aged between 21 and 58. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, beginning January 11. All of them sought medical attention and no hospitalisation was required. Throat swabs of two affected persons tested positive for influenza A virus subtype H1 (human swine influenza).
In the second case, the affected students, comprising 11 males and nine females, were aged between seven and 10. They developed similar respiratory tract infection symptoms, beginning January 6. None required hospitalisation.
All the affected are in stable condition."
Philippines : Dengue outbreak declared in Santiago City
Via ABS-CBN News :
" MANILA, Philippines : A dengue outbreak has been declared in Santiago City in Isabela province.
Dr. Edgar Ramonchito Bayang, assistant city health officer, said that a total of 19 cases have been recorded from January 1 to 14.
Bayang said that one of the patients died due to the dengue shock syndrome."
" MANILA, Philippines : A dengue outbreak has been declared in Santiago City in Isabela province.
Dr. Edgar Ramonchito Bayang, assistant city health officer, said that a total of 19 cases have been recorded from January 1 to 14.
Bayang said that one of the patients died due to the dengue shock syndrome."
Hong Kong : Cluster of Influenza A cases in Kwai Chung Hospital
Press release from Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" A spokesperson for Kwai Chung Hospital made the following announcement today (January 19):
A total of 12 patients (aged 23 to 59) and a staff member of a male ward have presented with symptoms of fever and flu since January 13. Viral test results of 10 patients are positive to Influenza A. One of the patients has been transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment under isolation. The hospital will continue to provide treatment to the remaining 11 patients and closely monitor their condition. All 12 patients are in stable condition. The staff member concerned is on sick leave.
Admission and visiting to the concerned ward are suspended for the time being. Infection control measures at the ward have already been stepped up. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance. "
" A spokesperson for Kwai Chung Hospital made the following announcement today (January 19):
A total of 12 patients (aged 23 to 59) and a staff member of a male ward have presented with symptoms of fever and flu since January 13. Viral test results of 10 patients are positive to Influenza A. One of the patients has been transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment under isolation. The hospital will continue to provide treatment to the remaining 11 patients and closely monitor their condition. All 12 patients are in stable condition. The staff member concerned is on sick leave.
Admission and visiting to the concerned ward are suspended for the time being. Infection control measures at the ward have already been stepped up. All other patients in the ward are under close surveillance. "
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Myanmar : Avian flu found on a poultry farm in Sittwe
An article from Mizzima News :
" Chiang Mai : The avian influenza has been detected on a poultry farm in Sittwe in Arakan State, according to the Burmese Ministry of Fishery and Livestock.The state newspapers confirmed that concerns first arose as some battery hens died on a poultry farm in Bumay Village in Sittwe Township. A Rangoon veterinary diagnostic lab diagnosed the deaths occurred because of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
The Sittwe Township husbandry and veterinary pathology department issued an alert not to eat chickens from the farm and to cook chickens from other farms thoroughly.On Tuesday, local health service officials and staff began to visit poultry farms in Arakan State to examine the farms and to spray insecticides, a spokesperson of the Arakan State Health Department told Mizzima.
A spokesperson at the Sittwe Township’s husbandry veterinary pathology department told Mizzima: ‘The poultry on the farm seemed to be infected and when the colour of the cockscombs of some male chickens turned black, they died. We contacted the veterinary diagnostic lab and found that the chickens were infected the influenza."
" Chiang Mai : The avian influenza has been detected on a poultry farm in Sittwe in Arakan State, according to the Burmese Ministry of Fishery and Livestock.The state newspapers confirmed that concerns first arose as some battery hens died on a poultry farm in Bumay Village in Sittwe Township. A Rangoon veterinary diagnostic lab diagnosed the deaths occurred because of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
The Sittwe Township husbandry and veterinary pathology department issued an alert not to eat chickens from the farm and to cook chickens from other farms thoroughly.On Tuesday, local health service officials and staff began to visit poultry farms in Arakan State to examine the farms and to spray insecticides, a spokesperson of the Arakan State Health Department told Mizzima.
A spokesperson at the Sittwe Township’s husbandry veterinary pathology department told Mizzima: ‘The poultry on the farm seemed to be infected and when the colour of the cockscombs of some male chickens turned black, they died. We contacted the veterinary diagnostic lab and found that the chickens were infected the influenza."
Honduras : Health Ministry reports 72 cases of dengue in 2011
Translated report from El Heraldo :
" To cope with dengue, the Ministry of Health of Honduras has 40,000 kilos of Abbe, enough to cover the first quarter of the year nationwide.
"This is a strengthening of the ongoing campaign we have against the mosquito vector, we have portable thermo lists 100 machines, 26 machines, equipment and tomorrow (today) get 20 more, as well as the 100 motomochilas" said Roxana Araujo, Dengue Programme Director. There are several ways to combat the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue fever and hemorrhagic.
You can use the larvicide known as Abbe to kill mosquito larvae. The Abbe is deposited in micro-perforated bags in piles and any water storage container."
" To cope with dengue, the Ministry of Health of Honduras has 40,000 kilos of Abbe, enough to cover the first quarter of the year nationwide.
"This is a strengthening of the ongoing campaign we have against the mosquito vector, we have portable thermo lists 100 machines, 26 machines, equipment and tomorrow (today) get 20 more, as well as the 100 motomochilas" said Roxana Araujo, Dengue Programme Director. There are several ways to combat the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which transmits dengue fever and hemorrhagic.
You can use the larvicide known as Abbe to kill mosquito larvae. The Abbe is deposited in micro-perforated bags in piles and any water storage container."
Indonesia : Dozens of Students Unforeseen Swine Flu
Translated article from Indo Siar :
" Dozens of students at a boarding school, in Metro Lampung suspected swine flu virus. Until Monday (17,01,11) afternoon they were still treated in isolation rooms in boarding school, while others treated at the clinic. The number of swine flu has reached 99 people. But most of his condition improves, only 15 students are admitted to intensive.
The result of the examination while 78 santeri Muhsin boarding school in Purwosari Metro, Lampung allegedly attacked by the virus H1N1 or avian flu is not as originally expected. Until Monday afternoon, the number recorded is 99 students, but some have been improved."
" Dozens of students at a boarding school, in Metro Lampung suspected swine flu virus. Until Monday (17,01,11) afternoon they were still treated in isolation rooms in boarding school, while others treated at the clinic. The number of swine flu has reached 99 people. But most of his condition improves, only 15 students are admitted to intensive.
The result of the examination while 78 santeri Muhsin boarding school in Purwosari Metro, Lampung allegedly attacked by the virus H1N1 or avian flu is not as originally expected. Until Monday afternoon, the number recorded is 99 students, but some have been improved."
US : Bacteria unzipped - Researchers find potential vaccine for ‘superbug’ MRSA infections
Via Medill Reports :
" An antibody that could attack the notoriously strong “zipper” of MRSA cells was recently discovered by researchers from University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, N.Y. The researchers said the advance holds hope for a vaccine that will prevent MRSA, potentially deadly infections that are antibiotic resistant.
“The big discovery we made in finding this vaccine is in part that the molecule we discovered will unzip MRSA’s iron clad cell wall,” said Edward Schwarz, professor of orthopaedics and associate director of the URMC Center for Musculoskeletal Research. “If the [MRSA] cell wants to divide, it has to unzip. So the vaccine targets the zipper.”
The zipper is made of the enzyme glucosaminidase or GMD. The researchers at Rochester are looking for antibodies that will disable it."
" An antibody that could attack the notoriously strong “zipper” of MRSA cells was recently discovered by researchers from University of Rochester Medical Center in Rochester, N.Y. The researchers said the advance holds hope for a vaccine that will prevent MRSA, potentially deadly infections that are antibiotic resistant.
“The big discovery we made in finding this vaccine is in part that the molecule we discovered will unzip MRSA’s iron clad cell wall,” said Edward Schwarz, professor of orthopaedics and associate director of the URMC Center for Musculoskeletal Research. “If the [MRSA] cell wants to divide, it has to unzip. So the vaccine targets the zipper.”
The zipper is made of the enzyme glucosaminidase or GMD. The researchers at Rochester are looking for antibodies that will disable it."
Zimbabwe : Fresh Cholera Outbreak In Bikita
Via Radio VOP :
" Bikita, January 18, 2011 : A fresh cholera outbreak which has seen 60 people infected with the disease and four people dead have been reported here.
Masvingo Provincial Medical Director Dr Robert Mudyiradima said tests had confirmed that the deaths of two children, one man and a woman from Nyika Growth Point were caused by cholera."We have dispatched our health teams to assess the situation and raise more awareness on the disease,” Dr Mudyiradima said.
He said the recent rains and a recent meeting of the Apostolic Faith members could have contributed to the resurgent outbreak."
" Bikita, January 18, 2011 : A fresh cholera outbreak which has seen 60 people infected with the disease and four people dead have been reported here.
Masvingo Provincial Medical Director Dr Robert Mudyiradima said tests had confirmed that the deaths of two children, one man and a woman from Nyika Growth Point were caused by cholera."We have dispatched our health teams to assess the situation and raise more awareness on the disease,” Dr Mudyiradima said.
He said the recent rains and a recent meeting of the Apostolic Faith members could have contributed to the resurgent outbreak."
India : Swine flu strikes again; 3-yr-old girl tests positive
Via Times of India :
" HYDERABAD: After a lull of three months, swine flu struck again in the city. A three-year-old girl, who came from Canada along with her family, tested positive for the H1N1 influenza.
Confirming the case, state health authorities said the family had recently come from Canada to visit relatives and has been staying at Srinagar Colony.
According to the officials, the girl had fever when she landed in the city and after her condition deteriorated, she was rushed to a children's hospital at Banjara Hills about three days ago."
" HYDERABAD: After a lull of three months, swine flu struck again in the city. A three-year-old girl, who came from Canada along with her family, tested positive for the H1N1 influenza.
Confirming the case, state health authorities said the family had recently come from Canada to visit relatives and has been staying at Srinagar Colony.
According to the officials, the girl had fever when she landed in the city and after her condition deteriorated, she was rushed to a children's hospital at Banjara Hills about three days ago."
Egypt : Beheira man said to die of swine flu, other cases reported in Daqahliya
An article from Al Masry Al Youm :
" A man was said to have died of the H1N1 virus, or "swine flu," in the Nile Delta governorate of Beheira on Tuesday.
Mohamed Abdel Gawad, 35, was hospitalized for two days after showing symptoms of the disease.
“We also took samples from his family members in order to test them,” said Health Ministry Undersecretary Hisham Atta.
Another five alleged cases of swine flu were discovered in the neighboring governorate of Daqahliya, while 20 others suspected of having contracted the disease were quarantined. Of these, 12 have since been released.
In Port Said, meanwhile, another three people were also reported to have been diagnosed with the disease."
" A man was said to have died of the H1N1 virus, or "swine flu," in the Nile Delta governorate of Beheira on Tuesday.
Mohamed Abdel Gawad, 35, was hospitalized for two days after showing symptoms of the disease.
“We also took samples from his family members in order to test them,” said Health Ministry Undersecretary Hisham Atta.
Another five alleged cases of swine flu were discovered in the neighboring governorate of Daqahliya, while 20 others suspected of having contracted the disease were quarantined. Of these, 12 have since been released.
In Port Said, meanwhile, another three people were also reported to have been diagnosed with the disease."
Serbia Reports First Swine Flu Death in 2011
Via Naharnet :
" Serbian health authorities on Tuesday reported the first death of swine flu caused by the H1N1 virus in the Balkans country this year.
"A first lethal case linked to the flu virus H1N1 was reported. It concerned a person born in 1968 and living in Banat (northern Serbia) who suffered from chronic cardiac illness," the Serbian national health institute said in a statement.
The institute added that currently 26 people were officially diagnosed as having swine flu with three among them in serious condition in hospital intensive care units."
" Serbian health authorities on Tuesday reported the first death of swine flu caused by the H1N1 virus in the Balkans country this year.
"A first lethal case linked to the flu virus H1N1 was reported. It concerned a person born in 1968 and living in Banat (northern Serbia) who suffered from chronic cardiac illness," the Serbian national health institute said in a statement.
The institute added that currently 26 people were officially diagnosed as having swine flu with three among them in serious condition in hospital intensive care units."
Hong Kong : CHP investigates influenza-like-illness outbreak
Press release from Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has again reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after CHP received a report of an influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreak at a primary school in Discovery Bay, affecting 29 children.
The affected persons comprise 13 boys and 16 girls aged between five and eight. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, since January 10.
None of them required hospitalisation. Respiratory specimens from two of the affected were positive for influenza B by rapid test by a private clinic.
All the affected are in stable condition."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has again reminded members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after CHP received a report of an influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreak at a primary school in Discovery Bay, affecting 29 children.
The affected persons comprise 13 boys and 16 girls aged between five and eight. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat, since January 10.
None of them required hospitalisation. Respiratory specimens from two of the affected were positive for influenza B by rapid test by a private clinic.
All the affected are in stable condition."
Southwestern Bulgaria and Sofia declare flu epidemic
Via The Sofia Echo :
" Regions in southwest Bulgaria have declared a flu epidemic because of the drastic rise in cases of people suffering from respiratory problems, Dnevnik daily reported on January 18 2011.The city of Blagoevgrad, and the town of Petrich near the Koulata-Promachon border crossing point with Greece, have both declared a flu epidemic.
This will come into effect on January 19 2011.Those most affected by the strain are children aged 5-14, followed by youngsters aged 15-29. Pupils who are not attending school at the moment on account of illness currently account for 18-22 per cent of the total number, depending on the institution. Schools have taken necessary "preemptive and preventative measures", but will not shut doors because of the epidemic, regardless.
The report does not mention the H1N1 strain, otherwise known as swine flu in this particular case, although cases of swine flu are not excluded. It is believed that the main culprit in Blagoevgrad and Petrich is the seasonal winter flu, which, according to medical officials, was expected to peak in Bulgaria in the second half of January."
" Regions in southwest Bulgaria have declared a flu epidemic because of the drastic rise in cases of people suffering from respiratory problems, Dnevnik daily reported on January 18 2011.The city of Blagoevgrad, and the town of Petrich near the Koulata-Promachon border crossing point with Greece, have both declared a flu epidemic.
This will come into effect on January 19 2011.Those most affected by the strain are children aged 5-14, followed by youngsters aged 15-29. Pupils who are not attending school at the moment on account of illness currently account for 18-22 per cent of the total number, depending on the institution. Schools have taken necessary "preemptive and preventative measures", but will not shut doors because of the epidemic, regardless.
The report does not mention the H1N1 strain, otherwise known as swine flu in this particular case, although cases of swine flu are not excluded. It is believed that the main culprit in Blagoevgrad and Petrich is the seasonal winter flu, which, according to medical officials, was expected to peak in Bulgaria in the second half of January."
South Korea Reports 23 New Bird Flu Outbreaks
Via The Poultry Site :
" SOUTH KOREA : There were 23 new outbreaks of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), across the western side of the country, particularly in the far south-west.
The authorities sent Follow Up Report No. 4 dated 17 January to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
All outbreaks reported were on farms and started between 6 and 13 January. Most were on ducks farms in the regions of Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla), Chungcheongnam-do (South Chungcheong) and Gyeonggi-do."
" SOUTH KOREA : There were 23 new outbreaks of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), across the western side of the country, particularly in the far south-west.
The authorities sent Follow Up Report No. 4 dated 17 January to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
All outbreaks reported were on farms and started between 6 and 13 January. Most were on ducks farms in the regions of Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla), Chungcheongnam-do (South Chungcheong) and Gyeonggi-do."
Hong Kong : CHP investigates a GBS suspected case
Another media statement from Hong Kong's CHP :
" In response to media enquiry, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) confirmed today (January 18) that a report from Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) of a suspected case of Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) affecting an 81-year old woman with history of influenza vaccination was received today.
The patient, who has underlying medical conditions, received an influenza vaccination at a government out-patient clinic on December 22, 2010 and developed bilateral lower limb weakness on December 29, seven days after the vaccination. She was admitted to QMH on January 14 and is currently in stable condition.
A spokesman for the CHP said that further investigations are being carried out to ascertain the diagnosis, including for GBS and other neurological conditions."
" In response to media enquiry, the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) confirmed today (January 18) that a report from Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) of a suspected case of Guillain Barre Syndrome (GBS) affecting an 81-year old woman with history of influenza vaccination was received today.
The patient, who has underlying medical conditions, received an influenza vaccination at a government out-patient clinic on December 22, 2010 and developed bilateral lower limb weakness on December 29, seven days after the vaccination. She was admitted to QMH on January 14 and is currently in stable condition.
A spokesman for the CHP said that further investigations are being carried out to ascertain the diagnosis, including for GBS and other neurological conditions."
Hong Kong : CHP investigating case of influenza with severe complication
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 18) repeated its call for vigilance against influenza as a report was received of a critical case of confirmed Influenza A affecting a two-year-old girl.
The girl presented with fever, cough and running nose yesterday (January 17) and was taken for medical treatment by a private doctor. She further developed convulsions today and was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
She was suspected to have developed encephalitis. Her current condition is critical.
Her nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens tested positive for Influenza A. CHP's investigation continues."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 18) repeated its call for vigilance against influenza as a report was received of a critical case of confirmed Influenza A affecting a two-year-old girl.
The girl presented with fever, cough and running nose yesterday (January 17) and was taken for medical treatment by a private doctor. She further developed convulsions today and was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
She was suspected to have developed encephalitis. Her current condition is critical.
Her nasopharyngeal aspirate specimens tested positive for Influenza A. CHP's investigation continues."
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Pakistan : Another person detected with swine flu
Via The News :
" The National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, confirmed on Monday another patient from Karachi infected with swine flu.
The total number of patients with H1N1 Type-A Influenza infections in Sindh had reached 22, officials said.A resident of North Nazimabad, 30-year-old Asif-ul-Haq had visited the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital’s OPD with flu symptoms.
His swab samples were sent to the NIH Islamabad that confirmed that Haq was suffering from swine flu, Dr Suresh Kumar, in-charge Sindh Influenza Surveillance Cell, told The News."
" The National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, confirmed on Monday another patient from Karachi infected with swine flu.
The total number of patients with H1N1 Type-A Influenza infections in Sindh had reached 22, officials said.A resident of North Nazimabad, 30-year-old Asif-ul-Haq had visited the Abbasi Shaheed Hospital’s OPD with flu symptoms.
His swab samples were sent to the NIH Islamabad that confirmed that Haq was suffering from swine flu, Dr Suresh Kumar, in-charge Sindh Influenza Surveillance Cell, told The News."
Jordan's A/H1N1 flu fatalities rise to 10
Via Xinhua :
" AMMAN, Jan. 17 : Jordan's health authorities on Monday announced that total number of influenza A/H1N1 fatalities in the country reached 10.
The number of A/H1N1 flu cases registered in the country reached 154 since the discovery of the first case in early December 2010, the Ministry of Health said in a statement.
The ministry gave no further details about the latest fatality."
" AMMAN, Jan. 17 : Jordan's health authorities on Monday announced that total number of influenza A/H1N1 fatalities in the country reached 10.
The number of A/H1N1 flu cases registered in the country reached 154 since the discovery of the first case in early December 2010, the Ministry of Health said in a statement.
The ministry gave no further details about the latest fatality."
Austria : H1N1 death toll rises
Via Austrian Independent :
" A five-year-old girl has become the third swine flu victim in Austria this winter.The mentally and physically disabled child passed away in Salzburg’s Provincial Hospital yesterday (Sun) after having suffered from pneumonia for some time, local authorities confirmed today.
The girl was hospitalised after her condition worsened last Wednesday.
A 32-year-old male German holidaymaker died of the H1N1 virus in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, a ski resort in the province of Salzburg, on New Year’s Day before a chronically ill man, 19, passed away in Feldkirch, Vorarlberg, last Wednesday."
" A five-year-old girl has become the third swine flu victim in Austria this winter.The mentally and physically disabled child passed away in Salzburg’s Provincial Hospital yesterday (Sun) after having suffered from pneumonia for some time, local authorities confirmed today.
The girl was hospitalised after her condition worsened last Wednesday.
A 32-year-old male German holidaymaker died of the H1N1 virus in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, a ski resort in the province of Salzburg, on New Year’s Day before a chronically ill man, 19, passed away in Feldkirch, Vorarlberg, last Wednesday."
Scotland : Flu Crisis - Deaths Treble In Just a Week
Via The Scottish Daily Express :
" SCOTLAND’S flu epidemic death toll has nearly trebled in a just a week, with the worst yet to come.
Figures show the virus has claimed the lives of 112 people across the UK in the past seven days, with 17 north of the Border.
The spike came as the country returned to work and school following the festive holidays."
" SCOTLAND’S flu epidemic death toll has nearly trebled in a just a week, with the worst yet to come.
Figures show the virus has claimed the lives of 112 people across the UK in the past seven days, with 17 north of the Border.
The spike came as the country returned to work and school following the festive holidays."
South Korea : Foot-and-Mouth, Bird Flu Spread
Via The Chosunilbo, excerpt :
" A foot-and-mouth disease epidemic that started in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province in late November has now spread to 50 small cities and towns in five provinces, with a total of 128 separate outbreaks reported until Monday.
Nearly 2 million livestock have been culled, including some 132,000 heads of cattle and 1.85 million pigs. Compensation payments for affected farm households have risen to W1.2 trillion (US$1=W1,119).
The previous record of culled livestock was 160,155 in 2002. With the disease continuing to spread, the government last Thursday started to vaccinate all cattle and pigs nationwide, which has slowed the spread. There were no reports of suspected new cases on Sunday."
" A foot-and-mouth disease epidemic that started in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province in late November has now spread to 50 small cities and towns in five provinces, with a total of 128 separate outbreaks reported until Monday.
Nearly 2 million livestock have been culled, including some 132,000 heads of cattle and 1.85 million pigs. Compensation payments for affected farm households have risen to W1.2 trillion (US$1=W1,119).
The previous record of culled livestock was 160,155 in 2002. With the disease continuing to spread, the government last Thursday started to vaccinate all cattle and pigs nationwide, which has slowed the spread. There were no reports of suspected new cases on Sunday."
Vietnam : New case of A/H1N1 in Hanoi
An article from VOV News :
" The Hospital for Tropical Diseases received 2011’s first case of A/H1N1 influenza virus.
Deputy Head of the Hospital Nguyen Hong Ha said the patient was a 24-year-old pregnant woman from Dong Da District, Hanoi
The patient was admitted to hospital for treatment on January 14 and tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus. She is now in a stable condition."
" The Hospital for Tropical Diseases received 2011’s first case of A/H1N1 influenza virus.
Deputy Head of the Hospital Nguyen Hong Ha said the patient was a 24-year-old pregnant woman from Dong Da District, Hanoi
The patient was admitted to hospital for treatment on January 14 and tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus. She is now in a stable condition."
Swine Flu Claims First Victim in Romania
Via Sofia News Agency :
" Swine flu claimed its first victim in Romania for this year, the local authorities have announced.
A 60-year-old man died Sunday night in the hospital in the city of Iasi, about 320 km north-east of Bucharest.
The man had recently returned from Egypt and he started developing the symptoms shortly after that.
At present, there are two confirmed cases of people infected with the A(H1N1) virus in Romania. Last year, 122 people died from the virus in the country."
" Swine flu claimed its first victim in Romania for this year, the local authorities have announced.
A 60-year-old man died Sunday night in the hospital in the city of Iasi, about 320 km north-east of Bucharest.
The man had recently returned from Egypt and he started developing the symptoms shortly after that.
At present, there are two confirmed cases of people infected with the A(H1N1) virus in Romania. Last year, 122 people died from the virus in the country."
Hong Kong : CHP investigates influenza-like-illness outbreak
Another press release from Hong Kong's CHP, excerpt :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 17) urged members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after CHP received a report of an influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreak in a kindergarten cum child care centre in Tai Po, affecting 20 children.
The affected persons comprised 13 boys and seven girls aged between two and five. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat since January 5.
Two of them required hospitalisation and have been discharged. Nasopharyngeal aspirate from one of them tested positive for influenza A at a private hospital."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 17) urged members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after CHP received a report of an influenza-like-illness (ILI) outbreak in a kindergarten cum child care centre in Tai Po, affecting 20 children.
The affected persons comprised 13 boys and seven girls aged between two and five. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat since January 5.
Two of them required hospitalisation and have been discharged. Nasopharyngeal aspirate from one of them tested positive for influenza A at a private hospital."
Hong Kong enters influenza peak season
Press Release from Hong Kong's Center for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 17) called on the public to maintain vigilance against seasonal influenza as latest surveillance data showed that Hong Kong has entered the winter influenza peak season.
The Public Health Laboratory Centre (PHLC) of the CHP has detected increases in the number of influenza isolations recently. A total of 149 influenza detections were recorded last week (ending January 15, 2011) compared with 26, 47 and 77 in the weeks ending December 25, 2010, January 1 and January 8, 2011 respectively. The number of influenza-like illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools also increased from three in the week ending January 8 to 17 in the week ending January 15.
The majority (76%) of influenza viruses isolated in the recent two weeks were influenza A (H1N1) 2009 (i.e. human swine influenza), followed by influenza A (H3N2) (12%) and influenza B (12%)."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 17) called on the public to maintain vigilance against seasonal influenza as latest surveillance data showed that Hong Kong has entered the winter influenza peak season.
The Public Health Laboratory Centre (PHLC) of the CHP has detected increases in the number of influenza isolations recently. A total of 149 influenza detections were recorded last week (ending January 15, 2011) compared with 26, 47 and 77 in the weeks ending December 25, 2010, January 1 and January 8, 2011 respectively. The number of influenza-like illness outbreaks occurring in institutions and schools also increased from three in the week ending January 8 to 17 in the week ending January 15.
The majority (76%) of influenza viruses isolated in the recent two weeks were influenza A (H1N1) 2009 (i.e. human swine influenza), followed by influenza A (H3N2) (12%) and influenza B (12%)."
Indonesia : Lampung and West Java - Bird flu endemic in birds
From Ida at Bird Flu Information Corner :
" Kalianda : Desa (village) Sidomakmur, Kecamatan (sub-district) Way Panji in Lampung Province stated as bird flu endemic area after 17 chickens and 4 swans had suddenly died. Confirmation was done through rapid test by Livestock Service.
Indramayu : Livestock Service (Distankan) stated fifty percent of Kabupaten Indramayu, West Java province, as bird flu endemic area.The disease is feared to spread among birds during rainy season. According to 2011 data of Distankan Kabupaten Indramayu, of 31 sub-districts, 18 are bird flu endemic. The endemic status was made based on the bird death data."
" Kalianda : Desa (village) Sidomakmur, Kecamatan (sub-district) Way Panji in Lampung Province stated as bird flu endemic area after 17 chickens and 4 swans had suddenly died. Confirmation was done through rapid test by Livestock Service.
Indramayu : Livestock Service (Distankan) stated fifty percent of Kabupaten Indramayu, West Java province, as bird flu endemic area.The disease is feared to spread among birds during rainy season. According to 2011 data of Distankan Kabupaten Indramayu, of 31 sub-districts, 18 are bird flu endemic. The endemic status was made based on the bird death data."
Monday, January 17, 2011
Canada : Flu tsunami could clog emergency rooms
Via The Vancouver Sun :
" Plans underway to get patients faster hospital emergency care could be undone if more people don't get flu vaccinations and Alberta is hit by a flu tsunami similar to Ontario's, the acting CEO of Alberta's health superboard says.
"I remain very concerned that Albertans have not gone to get influenza vaccine at the rate they should have to deal with their own health ... and prevent some of the visits that need to come to our emergency departments," said Dr. Chris Eagle with Alberta Health Services.
Although plans adopted in December appear to have successfully decreased the number of admitted patients blocking emergency stretchers for new patients, he said that could be reversed if emergency rooms become inundated with flu patients."
" Plans underway to get patients faster hospital emergency care could be undone if more people don't get flu vaccinations and Alberta is hit by a flu tsunami similar to Ontario's, the acting CEO of Alberta's health superboard says.
"I remain very concerned that Albertans have not gone to get influenza vaccine at the rate they should have to deal with their own health ... and prevent some of the visits that need to come to our emergency departments," said Dr. Chris Eagle with Alberta Health Services.
Although plans adopted in December appear to have successfully decreased the number of admitted patients blocking emergency stretchers for new patients, he said that could be reversed if emergency rooms become inundated with flu patients."
Pakistan : Four more swine flu cases comfirmed in Swabi
Via The News :
" SWABI: The number of swine flu patients in the district reached to 17 after four more persons were found positive for the virus, official sources said on Sunday.“The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad has confirmed four more cases. The affectees belong to Kala, Chota Lahor and Kadi villages.
Kadi is located adjacent to the Panjpir village from where some positive cases of NIH virus had already been confirmed,” the sources added.Meanwhile, lawmaker Mukhtiar Khan, advisor to the chief minister, visited the hospital and met with the doctors to discuss the latest situation.
He was the first politician from the Swabi to visit the hospital after the swine flu hit the district."
" SWABI: The number of swine flu patients in the district reached to 17 after four more persons were found positive for the virus, official sources said on Sunday.“The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad has confirmed four more cases. The affectees belong to Kala, Chota Lahor and Kadi villages.
Kadi is located adjacent to the Panjpir village from where some positive cases of NIH virus had already been confirmed,” the sources added.Meanwhile, lawmaker Mukhtiar Khan, advisor to the chief minister, visited the hospital and met with the doctors to discuss the latest situation.
He was the first politician from the Swabi to visit the hospital after the swine flu hit the district."
UK : Ten die with swine flu in Yorkshire
Via 121 Doc :
" A quarter of national swine flu deaths have happened in East Yorkshire, with ten people with the condition having died there.
Half were men and half women, the BBC reports, and nine out of ten had underlying health conditions. Only one did not have another condition, and died primarily from swine flu.
So far this winter 50 flu deaths have occurred; 45 were due to swine flu or H1N1. Since December 1st there have been 84 confirmed cases of swine flu in hospitals, while more than 200 people have been admitted to hospitals with suspected swine flu. The surge in cases has forced hospitals to cancel some major operations to make bed space."
" A quarter of national swine flu deaths have happened in East Yorkshire, with ten people with the condition having died there.
Half were men and half women, the BBC reports, and nine out of ten had underlying health conditions. Only one did not have another condition, and died primarily from swine flu.
So far this winter 50 flu deaths have occurred; 45 were due to swine flu or H1N1. Since December 1st there have been 84 confirmed cases of swine flu in hospitals, while more than 200 people have been admitted to hospitals with suspected swine flu. The surge in cases has forced hospitals to cancel some major operations to make bed space."
Australia : Council urges protection against mosquito-borne diseases
An article from ABC News :
" The Townsville City Council says residents should protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases around the clock as the monsoon sets in.
At least 28 cases of dengue fever have been detected in Townsville during the latest outbreak, while there have also been cases of Ross River fever across the north."
" The Townsville City Council says residents should protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases around the clock as the monsoon sets in.
At least 28 cases of dengue fever have been detected in Townsville during the latest outbreak, while there have also been cases of Ross River fever across the north."
Philippines : Public warned against dengue
Via GMA News :
" THE onset of the new year, the Department of Health in Central Visayas advised the public to continue taking precaution against dengue cases in the region continued to rise based on the yearend report of the DOH-7—Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit in Central Visayas (RESU-7).
Cebu City topped the list with 23.8 percent, followed by Tagbilaran City in Bohol with 4.1 percent, Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City in Cebu with four percent and 3.5 percent respectively and Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental with 3.5 percent.
According to the report, 20 persons died of dengue in 2010 out of the 3,772 cases, which was higher than the 1,001 dengue cases recorded in 2009. Most of the victims are children aged 6-10."
" THE onset of the new year, the Department of Health in Central Visayas advised the public to continue taking precaution against dengue cases in the region continued to rise based on the yearend report of the DOH-7—Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit in Central Visayas (RESU-7).
Cebu City topped the list with 23.8 percent, followed by Tagbilaran City in Bohol with 4.1 percent, Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City in Cebu with four percent and 3.5 percent respectively and Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental with 3.5 percent.
According to the report, 20 persons died of dengue in 2010 out of the 3,772 cases, which was higher than the 1,001 dengue cases recorded in 2009. Most of the victims are children aged 6-10."
Egypt declares 598 confirmed H1N1 flu cases within week
Via Kuna :
" CAIRO, Jan 16 : Deaths due to H1N1 flu, better known as swine flu, hit 26 this week in Egypt with most of them of highly pathogenic cases, spokesman of the Ministry of Health Dr. Abdulrahman Shahin said here Sunday.
He added in a statement that those of chronic diseases and pregnant account for 75 percent of these highly pathogenic cases.Shahin added that the efforts made by the monitoring teams from Jan. 9 to Jan 15 led to detecting 598 cases of swine flu."
" CAIRO, Jan 16 : Deaths due to H1N1 flu, better known as swine flu, hit 26 this week in Egypt with most of them of highly pathogenic cases, spokesman of the Ministry of Health Dr. Abdulrahman Shahin said here Sunday.
He added in a statement that those of chronic diseases and pregnant account for 75 percent of these highly pathogenic cases.Shahin added that the efforts made by the monitoring teams from Jan. 9 to Jan 15 led to detecting 598 cases of swine flu."
Vietnam : Another case of A/H1N1 discovered in HCM City
An article from VOV News :
" Another case of A/H1N1 influenza has been detected in district 3, Ho Chi Minh City, said the city Hospital for Tropical Diseases.
The patient is a 24 year-old woman who has just returned from Malaysia. After having a high fever for two days, she was admitted to the hospital for treatment on January 8 and tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus."
" Another case of A/H1N1 influenza has been detected in district 3, Ho Chi Minh City, said the city Hospital for Tropical Diseases.
The patient is a 24 year-old woman who has just returned from Malaysia. After having a high fever for two days, she was admitted to the hospital for treatment on January 8 and tested positive for the A/H1N1 virus."
Israel : Two Swine-Flu Deaths
An article from Israel National News :
" Two women who were diagnosed with the H1N1 swine-flu virus died Sunday in Israeli hospitals. The victims, ages 73 and 63, suffered from additional illnesses.
Last week a six-year-old girl apparently died from the disease. Five people diagnosed with the virus have died since the beginning of the season."
" Two women who were diagnosed with the H1N1 swine-flu virus died Sunday in Israeli hospitals. The victims, ages 73 and 63, suffered from additional illnesses.
Last week a six-year-old girl apparently died from the disease. Five people diagnosed with the virus have died since the beginning of the season."
Egypt : Health Ministry - 26 succumb to H1N1 despite plummeting
Via Al Masry Al Youm :
" Egypt's Ministry of Health announced on Sunday that 26 people had died from "complications associated with the H1N1 virus," commonly known as "swine flu,” over the course of the past week, but added that overall infection rates were considerably lower than last year.
Most of those who died were people already suffering from chronic diseases or pregnant women, according to a ministry statement."
" Egypt's Ministry of Health announced on Sunday that 26 people had died from "complications associated with the H1N1 virus," commonly known as "swine flu,” over the course of the past week, but added that overall infection rates were considerably lower than last year.
Most of those who died were people already suffering from chronic diseases or pregnant women, according to a ministry statement."
Northern Ireland : Two young boys die from swine flu
Via Irish Times :
" Two young children with swine flu have died in Northern Ireland.
The death of a 10-month-old baby boy was announced tonight, only hours after the authorities said a two-year-old boy with the virus had died.
The baby had underlying health problems.
It is not known if the two-year-old, who was from the Republic, was also suffering from another condition as his family have asked for those details to remain private.
The death takes to 19 the confirmed number of people with the H1N1 virus that have died in Northern Ireland this flu season."
" Two young children with swine flu have died in Northern Ireland.
The death of a 10-month-old baby boy was announced tonight, only hours after the authorities said a two-year-old boy with the virus had died.
The baby had underlying health problems.
It is not known if the two-year-old, who was from the Republic, was also suffering from another condition as his family have asked for those details to remain private.
The death takes to 19 the confirmed number of people with the H1N1 virus that have died in Northern Ireland this flu season."
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