A Google hosted news from AFP :
" KANO, Nigeria : A fresh cholera outbreak has killed 13 people, while 112 others have been hospitalised since the weekend in northern Nigeria's Kebbi State, the heath commissioner said Wednesday.
"We have 13 deaths out of 125 cholera cases we have recorded since Sunday and these figures are from hospital records," Sadiq Dakingari told AFP."
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Finland confirms six more A/H1N1 flu cases
Via Trend :
" The Finnish Defense Forces said in a statement on Wednesday that a further six A/H1N1 flu cases had been confirmed at the Armored Brigade base in Parola in southern Finland, Xinhua reported.
Finland's first A/H1N1 flu case in the new flu season was confirmed at the base late November, when several other people were exhibiting symptoms linked to the disease.
The military said that six of them have been confirmed to be infected with A/H1N1 virus, adding that more than 250 conscripts had sought treatment over the past two days. About half of them showed typical A/H1N1 flu symptoms, such as high fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and headache."
" The Finnish Defense Forces said in a statement on Wednesday that a further six A/H1N1 flu cases had been confirmed at the Armored Brigade base in Parola in southern Finland, Xinhua reported.
Finland's first A/H1N1 flu case in the new flu season was confirmed at the base late November, when several other people were exhibiting symptoms linked to the disease.
The military said that six of them have been confirmed to be infected with A/H1N1 virus, adding that more than 250 conscripts had sought treatment over the past two days. About half of them showed typical A/H1N1 flu symptoms, such as high fever, muscle aches and pains, sore throat and headache."
Malaysia ranked 6th in Asia with high obesity
Via Xinhua :
" PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Dec. 8 : Malaysia is ranked sixth among Asian countries with high adult obesity rate, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Malaysian Health Minister Liow Tiong Lai told a press conference in Malaysia's federal administration center here on Wednesday that the weight of Malaysian students were also on an increasing trend.
While 20.7 percent of Malaysian students were overweight in 2001, Liow said that the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2006 had forecast that the percentage would rise to 26.5 in 2007.
The survey, third of its kind, is done every 10 years in Malaysia, with the first one done in 1986."
" PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Dec. 8 : Malaysia is ranked sixth among Asian countries with high adult obesity rate, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Malaysian Health Minister Liow Tiong Lai told a press conference in Malaysia's federal administration center here on Wednesday that the weight of Malaysian students were also on an increasing trend.
While 20.7 percent of Malaysian students were overweight in 2001, Liow said that the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2006 had forecast that the percentage would rise to 26.5 in 2007.
The survey, third of its kind, is done every 10 years in Malaysia, with the first one done in 1986."
London : New tuberculosis test cheaper for poor countries
Via The Associated Press :
" LONDON : Health officials say a new test to diagnose tuberculosis in less than two hours will be available to poor countries for a fraction of its original price.
Foundation for Innovative and New Diagnostics officials said Wednesday the test will be sold to more than 100 developing countries at a 75 percent discount - about $17 (euro12.72), instead of $67 (euro50.14)."
" LONDON : Health officials say a new test to diagnose tuberculosis in less than two hours will be available to poor countries for a fraction of its original price.
Foundation for Innovative and New Diagnostics officials said Wednesday the test will be sold to more than 100 developing countries at a 75 percent discount - about $17 (euro12.72), instead of $67 (euro50.14)."
Officials: French report about origin of cholera in Haiti inconclusive
Via CNN :
" Port-au-Prince, Haiti : A French doctor's report suggests that the strain of cholera ravaging Haiti may have originated with U.N. peacekeepers from Nepal, but U.N. officials and others cautioned that the report was inconclusive.
The report by French epidemiologist Dr. Renaud Piarroux rules out a number of potential causes and points to the Nepalese soldiers as the most probable, said Vincenzo Pugliese, spokesman for the U.N. mission in Haiti, but it fails to deliver definitive proof."
" Port-au-Prince, Haiti : A French doctor's report suggests that the strain of cholera ravaging Haiti may have originated with U.N. peacekeepers from Nepal, but U.N. officials and others cautioned that the report was inconclusive.
The report by French epidemiologist Dr. Renaud Piarroux rules out a number of potential causes and points to the Nepalese soldiers as the most probable, said Vincenzo Pugliese, spokesman for the U.N. mission in Haiti, but it fails to deliver definitive proof."
Rise in dengue cases an effect of climate change — DOH official
An article from Balita, excerpt :
" DAVAO CITY, Dec. 8 : The high incidence of dengue cases nationwide is an effect of climate change, according to Department of Health (DOH) Assistant Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial.
Ubial said the dengue problem this year has increased tremendously at 120,000 cases. The recorded cases from 1993 to 2009 was only as high as 6,000.
"Climate change is not the future anymore, it is with us now," Ubial said.
Dengue has four strains and what happened now was of multi-strain, Ubial stressed when she discussed the disease recently in a forum in Davao City entitled Biodiversity Conservation: Tropical Diseases and Public Health.
The DOH official also said there are other diseases that the public must be aware of namely the influenza virus, the H5N5 that was reported in HongKong and also the HIV-AIDS.
The HIV/AIDS cases doubled in the past years from 2006 to the present, Ubial said as she cited that unprotected sex between those infected with the disease covers 85 percent of cases, attributed to more men having sex with men in the last five years."
" DAVAO CITY, Dec. 8 : The high incidence of dengue cases nationwide is an effect of climate change, according to Department of Health (DOH) Assistant Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial.
Ubial said the dengue problem this year has increased tremendously at 120,000 cases. The recorded cases from 1993 to 2009 was only as high as 6,000.
"Climate change is not the future anymore, it is with us now," Ubial said.
Dengue has four strains and what happened now was of multi-strain, Ubial stressed when she discussed the disease recently in a forum in Davao City entitled Biodiversity Conservation: Tropical Diseases and Public Health.
The DOH official also said there are other diseases that the public must be aware of namely the influenza virus, the H5N5 that was reported in HongKong and also the HIV-AIDS.
The HIV/AIDS cases doubled in the past years from 2006 to the present, Ubial said as she cited that unprotected sex between those infected with the disease covers 85 percent of cases, attributed to more men having sex with men in the last five years."
South Korea : Single avian flu case in N. Jeolla
An article from Joong Ang Daily :
" In the middle of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, avian flu has been detected in Korea.Avian influenza (type H5N1) was confirmed in a wild bird on Tuesday in Iksan, North Jeolla - the main habitat for migratory birds - putting health officials on alert to prevent the spread of the virus to domestic poultry.
The Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said that a blood sample from a mallard in the Mangyeong River was verified to have the virus. The ministry has been conducting annual preventive inspections of 1,600 migratory birds since 2008, when avian flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza A (HPAI), swept the country. As the virus was not detected from a poultry farm, Korea’s avian influenza-free status is intact.
“There is no impediment to exporting poultry even though HPAI was found in a wild bird,” said a ministry official. The ministry is stepping up disinfection work to keep the flu from spreading to farm-bred poultry. An emergency disinfection of the area around the Mangyeong River is being conducted, and the government established a tight quarantine with a 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) radius.
In addition, four mobile quarantine posts have been set up within a kilometer of the epicenter.Around 3.25 million poultry are being raised within the 10-kilometer cordon.
Officials are monitoring birds for sickness and installing nets around farms to keep away wild birds."
" In the middle of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, avian flu has been detected in Korea.Avian influenza (type H5N1) was confirmed in a wild bird on Tuesday in Iksan, North Jeolla - the main habitat for migratory birds - putting health officials on alert to prevent the spread of the virus to domestic poultry.
The Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said that a blood sample from a mallard in the Mangyeong River was verified to have the virus. The ministry has been conducting annual preventive inspections of 1,600 migratory birds since 2008, when avian flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza A (HPAI), swept the country. As the virus was not detected from a poultry farm, Korea’s avian influenza-free status is intact.
“There is no impediment to exporting poultry even though HPAI was found in a wild bird,” said a ministry official. The ministry is stepping up disinfection work to keep the flu from spreading to farm-bred poultry. An emergency disinfection of the area around the Mangyeong River is being conducted, and the government established a tight quarantine with a 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) radius.
In addition, four mobile quarantine posts have been set up within a kilometer of the epicenter.Around 3.25 million poultry are being raised within the 10-kilometer cordon.
Officials are monitoring birds for sickness and installing nets around farms to keep away wild birds."
India : Dengue cases surfacing despite onset of winter
Via Chennai Online :
" New Delhi, Dec 8 : Dengue cases continue to be reported despite the onset of winter, leaving medical experts and health officials worried as normally mosquito breeding dips significantly by mid November.
"We hardly get to hear of dengue cases in winters. It stops by mid November. But this time even in December hospitals are reporting dengue cases," V K Monga, Health Committee Chairman, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, said.
"Our domestic breeding checkers are finding mosquito breeding in overhead tanks and coolers even at this time of the season. It is a myth that mosquitoes die during winters," an entomologist with a government agency said.
A mosquito lays eggs, 200 - 250 at one go and three to four times in its lifetime of 27 days. These eggs survive for the whole year."
" New Delhi, Dec 8 : Dengue cases continue to be reported despite the onset of winter, leaving medical experts and health officials worried as normally mosquito breeding dips significantly by mid November.
"We hardly get to hear of dengue cases in winters. It stops by mid November. But this time even in December hospitals are reporting dengue cases," V K Monga, Health Committee Chairman, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, said.
"Our domestic breeding checkers are finding mosquito breeding in overhead tanks and coolers even at this time of the season. It is a myth that mosquitoes die during winters," an entomologist with a government agency said.
A mosquito lays eggs, 200 - 250 at one go and three to four times in its lifetime of 27 days. These eggs survive for the whole year."
WHO on the latest H5N1 death in Egypt
From my mentor Crof at H5N1, whose excellent take on things always amazes me. Thank you Crof! Go to his site for the complete link :
" WHO has published Avian influenza - situation in Egypt - update 38.
The Ministry of Health of Egypt has announced a new case of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza.
A 30-year-old female from Gharbia Governorate, developed symptoms on 28 November, was hospitalized on 1st of December, where she received oseltamivir treatment, and died on 2nd of December.
Investigations into the source of infection indicated that the case had exposure to sick and dead poultry.
The case was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratories, a National Influenza Center of the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance Network (GISN).
Of the 113 cases confirmed to date in Egypt, 37 have been fatal.
And if Egypt had Indonesia's case fatality ratio, about 88 of those cases would have been fatal. The reasons for such a discrepancy need research."
" WHO has published Avian influenza - situation in Egypt - update 38.
The Ministry of Health of Egypt has announced a new case of human infection of H5N1 avian influenza.
A 30-year-old female from Gharbia Governorate, developed symptoms on 28 November, was hospitalized on 1st of December, where she received oseltamivir treatment, and died on 2nd of December.
Investigations into the source of infection indicated that the case had exposure to sick and dead poultry.
The case was confirmed by the Egyptian Central Public Health Laboratories, a National Influenza Center of the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance Network (GISN).
Of the 113 cases confirmed to date in Egypt, 37 have been fatal.
And if Egypt had Indonesia's case fatality ratio, about 88 of those cases would have been fatal. The reasons for such a discrepancy need research."
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Hong Kong : Influenza response level lowered from "Serious" to "Alert"
From Hong Kong's Center for Health Protection :
" The Government today (December 8) lowered the influenza response level under the Framework of Government's Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic from "Serious" to "Alert".
The influenza response level was raised from "Alert" to "Serious" on November 17, upon detection of a human case of influenza A (H5) involving a 59-year-old woman.
A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said the CHP had stepped up surveillance and epidemiological investigation since then. Close contacts of the patient have been traced and placed under quarantine.
Three weeks of strengthened surveillance have passed and no secondary spread or further case of avian influenza was detected during the period.
"The human case of influenza A (H5) was classified as an imported sporadic infection. The patient is now in stable condition under the management of Princess Margaret Hospital," the spokesman said."
" The Government today (December 8) lowered the influenza response level under the Framework of Government's Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic from "Serious" to "Alert".
The influenza response level was raised from "Alert" to "Serious" on November 17, upon detection of a human case of influenza A (H5) involving a 59-year-old woman.
A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said the CHP had stepped up surveillance and epidemiological investigation since then. Close contacts of the patient have been traced and placed under quarantine.
Three weeks of strengthened surveillance have passed and no secondary spread or further case of avian influenza was detected during the period.
"The human case of influenza A (H5) was classified as an imported sporadic infection. The patient is now in stable condition under the management of Princess Margaret Hospital," the spokesman said."
Indonesia : Health Office of Residence Monitor Bird Flu Suspect
Translated article from Gala Media :
" Health Office (DHO) to monitor the full territory of Bandung residence suspect bird flu, Ny. K (21), which until now treated intensively in the Room of Hasan Sadikin Hospital Flamboyan (RSHS). Monitoring conducted across sectors with other agencies.
"Whatever the symptoms, health office epidimologi still investigating the incident directly to the location (place of residence, red).
So it is with doing a diagnose or interviews with patients and other family," said Head of Monitoring Disease Bandung Health Office, dr. Yorisa Sativa, Tuesday (7 / 12).
Explained Yorisa, until now there has been no description of any poultry that died suddenly. In addition, there are no poultry farms whether legal or illegal in some suspect lived."For a while I have found no poultry that died suddenly.
Even on a diagnose with his family, no contact with poultry," he explained.Still, said Yorisa, intensive inspection and monitoring continue. Moreover, until now not known with certainty, the origin of the disease."
" Health Office (DHO) to monitor the full territory of Bandung residence suspect bird flu, Ny. K (21), which until now treated intensively in the Room of Hasan Sadikin Hospital Flamboyan (RSHS). Monitoring conducted across sectors with other agencies.
"Whatever the symptoms, health office epidimologi still investigating the incident directly to the location (place of residence, red).
So it is with doing a diagnose or interviews with patients and other family," said Head of Monitoring Disease Bandung Health Office, dr. Yorisa Sativa, Tuesday (7 / 12).
Explained Yorisa, until now there has been no description of any poultry that died suddenly. In addition, there are no poultry farms whether legal or illegal in some suspect lived."For a while I have found no poultry that died suddenly.
Even on a diagnose with his family, no contact with poultry," he explained.Still, said Yorisa, intensive inspection and monitoring continue. Moreover, until now not known with certainty, the origin of the disease."
India : 24 malaria deaths in Chhattisgarh this year
Via Sify News :
" Raipur, Dec 7 : Twentyfour people have died of malaria and over one lakh people have tested positive for the disease in Chhattisgarh this year, Health Minister Amar Agrawal informed the state assembly Tuesday.
Till Nov 15, 122,939 people were found positive for malaria, the minister informed the house in a written reply to a question by Congress member and Leader of Opposition Ravindra Choubey.
Between 2004-09, 26 people died due to malaria, he said."
" Raipur, Dec 7 : Twentyfour people have died of malaria and over one lakh people have tested positive for the disease in Chhattisgarh this year, Health Minister Amar Agrawal informed the state assembly Tuesday.
Till Nov 15, 122,939 people were found positive for malaria, the minister informed the house in a written reply to a question by Congress member and Leader of Opposition Ravindra Choubey.
Between 2004-09, 26 people died due to malaria, he said."
S. Korea confirms bird flu outbreak in southern province
Via Yonhap News Agency :
" SEOUL, Dec. 8 : The South Korean government confirmed on Tuesday a bird flu outbreak in a southwestern region of the country, a main winter habitat of migratory birds.
The agricultural ministry said the state veterinary service confirmed that the bird flu virus was found in one of the blood samples sent from Iksan, North Jeolla Province.
The ministry conducted an emergency disinfection of the area around the Mangyeong River, where the infected wild bird was found, and put an area within a 10-kilometer radius from the site of the outbreak under intensive care."
" SEOUL, Dec. 8 : The South Korean government confirmed on Tuesday a bird flu outbreak in a southwestern region of the country, a main winter habitat of migratory birds.
The agricultural ministry said the state veterinary service confirmed that the bird flu virus was found in one of the blood samples sent from Iksan, North Jeolla Province.
The ministry conducted an emergency disinfection of the area around the Mangyeong River, where the infected wild bird was found, and put an area within a 10-kilometer radius from the site of the outbreak under intensive care."
Pneumonic plague outbreak in Uganda: officials
An article via Reuters :
" Pneumonic plague has broken out in northern Uganda, killing 38 people and putting dozens in hospital, a senior health official said Tuesday.
Issa Makumbi, assistant commissioner in charge of disease surveillance, said investigations into a disease that struck the region in November were continuing but that tentative tests had confirmed it was pneumonic plague."
" Pneumonic plague has broken out in northern Uganda, killing 38 people and putting dozens in hospital, a senior health official said Tuesday.
Issa Makumbi, assistant commissioner in charge of disease surveillance, said investigations into a disease that struck the region in November were continuing but that tentative tests had confirmed it was pneumonic plague."
Australia : New dengue case
Via Townsville Bulletin :
" HEALTH authorities waging a war against dengue fever have been left disappointed after another case was confirmed in Mundingburra yesterday.
The latest case of the mosquito-borne virus has again sparked calls for residents to rid their backyards of potential breeding sites, amid fears of a widespread outbreak as wet weather continues to soak the region.
The locally acquired case was believed to be linked to a series of type two cases earlier this year in Hermit Park, with the man affected recovering at home.
Townsville City Council and Queensland Health teams quickly moved into the area yesterday, doorknocking and carrying out inspections in the neighbourhood.
Tropical Regional Services' Public Health medical officer Dr Steven Donohue said final testing was still being undertaken to determine whether the latest case was also type two, linking it with the Hermit Park outbreak."
" HEALTH authorities waging a war against dengue fever have been left disappointed after another case was confirmed in Mundingburra yesterday.
The latest case of the mosquito-borne virus has again sparked calls for residents to rid their backyards of potential breeding sites, amid fears of a widespread outbreak as wet weather continues to soak the region.
The locally acquired case was believed to be linked to a series of type two cases earlier this year in Hermit Park, with the man affected recovering at home.
Townsville City Council and Queensland Health teams quickly moved into the area yesterday, doorknocking and carrying out inspections in the neighbourhood.
Tropical Regional Services' Public Health medical officer Dr Steven Donohue said final testing was still being undertaken to determine whether the latest case was also type two, linking it with the Hermit Park outbreak."
Hong Kong : CHP investigates influenza-like illness outbreak
Another press release from Hong Kong's Center for Health Protection, this time with regards to an ILI outbreak :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 7) urged members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after the CHP received a report of an influenza-like illness outbreak at a kindergarten in Kwun Tong, affecting 23 children.
The affected children comprise seven boys and 16 girls aged between three and five. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat beginning from November 27.
Two of them required hospitalisation. All those affected are in a stable condition."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 7) urged members of the public and management of institutions to maintain good environmental and personal hygiene to prevent influenza.
The appeal was made after the CHP received a report of an influenza-like illness outbreak at a kindergarten in Kwun Tong, affecting 23 children.
The affected children comprise seven boys and 16 girls aged between three and five. They developed symptoms of respiratory tract infection, including fever, cough and sore throat beginning from November 27.
Two of them required hospitalisation. All those affected are in a stable condition."
Hong Kong : Local cholera case confirmed
Press release from Hong Kong's Center for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has today (December 7) confirmed a local case of cholera involving a 61-year-old woman.
The woman, who lives in Shau Kei Wan, developed watery diarrhoea beginning November 29. She sought medical attention on the same day but the symptoms persisted.
She was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on December 4 and is now in isolation at Princess Margaret Hospital. She is in a stable condition.
Her stool specimen grew Vibrio cholerae O1 today.
The patient has no recent travel history and her home contacts were asymptomatic. CHP's investigation continues.
This is the ninth case of cholera reported this year. There were seven cholera cases in 2008, three in 2007, one in 2006 and five in 2005."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health has today (December 7) confirmed a local case of cholera involving a 61-year-old woman.
The woman, who lives in Shau Kei Wan, developed watery diarrhoea beginning November 29. She sought medical attention on the same day but the symptoms persisted.
She was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on December 4 and is now in isolation at Princess Margaret Hospital. She is in a stable condition.
Her stool specimen grew Vibrio cholerae O1 today.
The patient has no recent travel history and her home contacts were asymptomatic. CHP's investigation continues.
This is the ninth case of cholera reported this year. There were seven cholera cases in 2008, three in 2007, one in 2006 and five in 2005."
Pakistan : Dengue havoc continues in Karachi
Via Daily Times :
" KARACHI: Dengue menace continued to play havoc in Karachi with the death of another patient in a row reported Tuesday only after four days of last reported death of Sumaira at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital (ASH) on Friday (Dec 3) mounting the toll to 20 and 25 in the province.
Latest reported dengue victim was a 43-year-old man who too died in Aga Khan Hospital (AKUH) on Dec 3, the day Sumaira’s death was reported by ASH. Surprisingly the AKUH did not inform PDSC set up in Civil Hospital, Karachi timely about the death and reported it on Dec 7 instead.
The hospital also did not disclose the identity of the patient as per its policy. Earlier, death of Fatima, 26, at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) was reported only three days before the death of Sumaira, Reports received from different hospitals confirmed death of five dengue patients, four from Karachi and one from interior Sindh.
The number of dengue suspected cases this year has reached 5,850 in Sindh of them 5,134 belonged to Karachi."
" KARACHI: Dengue menace continued to play havoc in Karachi with the death of another patient in a row reported Tuesday only after four days of last reported death of Sumaira at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital (ASH) on Friday (Dec 3) mounting the toll to 20 and 25 in the province.
Latest reported dengue victim was a 43-year-old man who too died in Aga Khan Hospital (AKUH) on Dec 3, the day Sumaira’s death was reported by ASH. Surprisingly the AKUH did not inform PDSC set up in Civil Hospital, Karachi timely about the death and reported it on Dec 7 instead.
The hospital also did not disclose the identity of the patient as per its policy. Earlier, death of Fatima, 26, at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) was reported only three days before the death of Sumaira, Reports received from different hospitals confirmed death of five dengue patients, four from Karachi and one from interior Sindh.
The number of dengue suspected cases this year has reached 5,850 in Sindh of them 5,134 belonged to Karachi."
Malaysia : E.coli in Kenyir 'no threat to humans'
An article from New Straits Times :
" KUALA TERENGGANU: The public should not be alarmed by reports of Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria found in Tasik Kenyir as its presence does not necessarily pose increased risks to human.
Terengganu Health director Dr Nurdiyanah Hassan said the bacteria is commonly found in rivers and lakes. She said a certain level of E. coli in water is considered acceptable but declined to elaborate on what level is considered dangerous.
"I cannot comment much as the study quoted by newspapers on the presence of E.coli in Tasik Kenyir was not conducted by the Health Department," she said, adding that there had been no request to conduct such a study.
The New Straits Times reported yesterday that E.coli had been found in Tasik Kenyir and the state government will need to spend more than RM100,000 to provide toilets with proper septic tanks to nip the problem at the source.
State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage committee chairman Datuk Abdul Rahin Mohd Said said the second edition of the Kenyir Cup Fishing Tournament, which started yesterday, will go on as planned as there was no threat to the participants."
" KUALA TERENGGANU: The public should not be alarmed by reports of Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria found in Tasik Kenyir as its presence does not necessarily pose increased risks to human.
Terengganu Health director Dr Nurdiyanah Hassan said the bacteria is commonly found in rivers and lakes. She said a certain level of E. coli in water is considered acceptable but declined to elaborate on what level is considered dangerous.
"I cannot comment much as the study quoted by newspapers on the presence of E.coli in Tasik Kenyir was not conducted by the Health Department," she said, adding that there had been no request to conduct such a study.
The New Straits Times reported yesterday that E.coli had been found in Tasik Kenyir and the state government will need to spend more than RM100,000 to provide toilets with proper septic tanks to nip the problem at the source.
State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Heritage committee chairman Datuk Abdul Rahin Mohd Said said the second edition of the Kenyir Cup Fishing Tournament, which started yesterday, will go on as planned as there was no threat to the participants."
Egypt : Swine flu cases reach 136 with 70 reported last week
Via The Daily News Egypt :
" CAIRO: Swine flu cases have been increasing in Egypt, as 136 cases were reported in October and November — 70 of which were reported just this past week, according to Abdel Rahman Shahin, spokesperson for the Ministry of Heath.
Despite the increasing rate of infections, Shahin stated that the number of patients is within the seasonal flu rates expected during this time of year.
In ministry statement, Shahin did not refer to the H1N1 virus as “swine flu.” Instead, he used the term “emerging flu.”
“[The emerging flu] is no longer a threat as long as the person knows its symptoms and receives the proper treatment and right medication for it, as well as taking all the necessary precautions,” said Shahin.
These precautionary measures include taking proper care of personal hygiene, such as washing hands, maintaining proper ventilation at the workplace and at home, covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and avoiding crowded places."
" CAIRO: Swine flu cases have been increasing in Egypt, as 136 cases were reported in October and November — 70 of which were reported just this past week, according to Abdel Rahman Shahin, spokesperson for the Ministry of Heath.
Despite the increasing rate of infections, Shahin stated that the number of patients is within the seasonal flu rates expected during this time of year.
In ministry statement, Shahin did not refer to the H1N1 virus as “swine flu.” Instead, he used the term “emerging flu.”
“[The emerging flu] is no longer a threat as long as the person knows its symptoms and receives the proper treatment and right medication for it, as well as taking all the necessary precautions,” said Shahin.
These precautionary measures include taking proper care of personal hygiene, such as washing hands, maintaining proper ventilation at the workplace and at home, covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and avoiding crowded places."
US : Flu claims life of New Rochelle 4-year-old
An article from LoHud :
" NEW ROCHELLE : An otherwise healthy, 4-year-old city boy has died of complications from the flu, county Health Department officials confirmed this afternoon.
The boy became ill last month and had been hospitalized until he died of bacterial pneumonia on Friday. He did not receive the flu vaccine, health officials said."
" NEW ROCHELLE : An otherwise healthy, 4-year-old city boy has died of complications from the flu, county Health Department officials confirmed this afternoon.
The boy became ill last month and had been hospitalized until he died of bacterial pneumonia on Friday. He did not receive the flu vaccine, health officials said."
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Indonesia : Immediately Penajam DP3K 650 Annihilate Chicken
An article from Tribun Kaltim :
" PENAJAM : Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Marine (DP3K) Penajam North Paser (PPU), back to destroy 200 chickens in the village of Bukit Subur, Kecamatan Penajam after tested positive for bird flu or H5N1. Not only that. A total of 650 chickens in the village would also be destroyed to avoid spreading the disease.This was disclosed DP3K Head, Manahara Simanjuntak, Monday (12/06/2010).
Manahara say, 200 chickens had suddenly died. "The owner contact us for review. After review of bird flu was indeed positive," he said.Manahara explained, the chicken that died was owned by a citizen who farmed. But the owners also admitted some of the chicken sold in the market Petung.
After 200 chickens positive for bird flu, Manahara says his side are currently overseeing the Village Hill Fertile for this disease does not spread in other areas."
" PENAJAM : Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Marine (DP3K) Penajam North Paser (PPU), back to destroy 200 chickens in the village of Bukit Subur, Kecamatan Penajam after tested positive for bird flu or H5N1. Not only that. A total of 650 chickens in the village would also be destroyed to avoid spreading the disease.This was disclosed DP3K Head, Manahara Simanjuntak, Monday (12/06/2010).
Manahara say, 200 chickens had suddenly died. "The owner contact us for review. After review of bird flu was indeed positive," he said.Manahara explained, the chicken that died was owned by a citizen who farmed. But the owners also admitted some of the chicken sold in the market Petung.
After 200 chickens positive for bird flu, Manahara says his side are currently overseeing the Village Hill Fertile for this disease does not spread in other areas."
US : Why H1N1 could be fatal to young adults
Via UPI :
" NASHVILLE, Dec. 6 : U.S. and Argentine researchers suggest some young people died during the 2009 pandemic flu from an immune system response.
However, they say, the H1N1 vaccine offers protection and those patients who died were overwhelmingly unvaccinated. Many fell ill before a vaccine was available.
Researchers, led by Dr. Fernando Polack of Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, have identified a biomarker -- C4d -- a protein molecule that signals the body has responded with a massive immune response that can inflict -- potentially fatal -- damage to the lungs."
" NASHVILLE, Dec. 6 : U.S. and Argentine researchers suggest some young people died during the 2009 pandemic flu from an immune system response.
However, they say, the H1N1 vaccine offers protection and those patients who died were overwhelmingly unvaccinated. Many fell ill before a vaccine was available.
Researchers, led by Dr. Fernando Polack of Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, have identified a biomarker -- C4d -- a protein molecule that signals the body has responded with a massive immune response that can inflict -- potentially fatal -- damage to the lungs."
US : First case of cholera confirmed in Miami-Dade
An article from Miami Herald, excerpt :
" The Miami-Dade Health Department said Monday night they have confirmed their first case of cholera.
According to test results, an airline passenger who arrived on a flight to Miami International Airport on Thanksgiving evening had contracted cholera in Haiti, the department said.
The unidentified man, believed to be a doctor, arrived on an American Airlines flight from neighboring Dominican Republic. He became ill during the flight and told officials he had spent time working in Haiti. The man is recovering from the illness."
" The Miami-Dade Health Department said Monday night they have confirmed their first case of cholera.
According to test results, an airline passenger who arrived on a flight to Miami International Airport on Thanksgiving evening had contracted cholera in Haiti, the department said.
The unidentified man, believed to be a doctor, arrived on an American Airlines flight from neighboring Dominican Republic. He became ill during the flight and told officials he had spent time working in Haiti. The man is recovering from the illness."
Australia : Mosquito-borne disease risk rises after floods
Via ABC News :
" Queensland Health (QH) says people should take precautions to avoid mosquito-borne diseases which are likely to increase over summer.
QH spokesman Virgil Kelk says rain and flooding provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding and residents can do simple things like clean up their yards to reduce potential breeding sites.
"If we are going to see flood levels and certainly rainfall levels not inconsistent with what we saw earlier this year, we can certainly expect an increase in both mosquito activity and also the possibility of mosquito-borne disease," he said.
He says dengue fever is not a concern at this stage."
" Queensland Health (QH) says people should take precautions to avoid mosquito-borne diseases which are likely to increase over summer.
QH spokesman Virgil Kelk says rain and flooding provide ideal conditions for mosquito breeding and residents can do simple things like clean up their yards to reduce potential breeding sites.
"If we are going to see flood levels and certainly rainfall levels not inconsistent with what we saw earlier this year, we can certainly expect an increase in both mosquito activity and also the possibility of mosquito-borne disease," he said.
He says dengue fever is not a concern at this stage."
Zambia : Cholera breaks out
Via Lusaka Times :
" Cholera has broken out in Lusaka and Sinazongwe district in Southern Province with four cases confirmed so far.
Ministry of Health Spokesperson Kamoto Mbewe disclosed that three cases of cholera were reported in Chawama and Kanyama compounds while one was reported in Sinazongwe.
Dr. Mbewe said of the three cholera cases reported in Lusaka, two cases were confirmed at Chawama Hospital while one was confirmed at Kanyama clinic.
He told ZANIS in a statement in Lusaka today that Chawama compound has since reported 17 suspected cholera cases while Kanyama reported two.
Dr .Mbewe stressed that the situation is under control as all the patients have been treated and discharged and no deaths have been recorded."
" Cholera has broken out in Lusaka and Sinazongwe district in Southern Province with four cases confirmed so far.
Ministry of Health Spokesperson Kamoto Mbewe disclosed that three cases of cholera were reported in Chawama and Kanyama compounds while one was reported in Sinazongwe.
Dr. Mbewe said of the three cholera cases reported in Lusaka, two cases were confirmed at Chawama Hospital while one was confirmed at Kanyama clinic.
He told ZANIS in a statement in Lusaka today that Chawama compound has since reported 17 suspected cholera cases while Kanyama reported two.
Dr .Mbewe stressed that the situation is under control as all the patients have been treated and discharged and no deaths have been recorded."
Cholera outbreak kills 2,071 people in Haiti
Via Xinhua :
" SANTO DOMINGO, Dec. 6 : At least 2,071 people were killed in the nation's cholera epidemic which began there at the end of October, Haiti's Health Ministry said in a report Monday.
The report said that a total of 91,770 people have been infected, of whom 43,243 were hospitalized and 41,806 were discharged after their conditions improved.
The cholera epidemic has killed a total of 2,071 people in the tiny island state and experts from the United Nations said that this number could continue to rise.
According to the Health Ministry, the mortality rate is 2.3 percent and Artibonite has been the worst hit region, with 791 deaths."
" SANTO DOMINGO, Dec. 6 : At least 2,071 people were killed in the nation's cholera epidemic which began there at the end of October, Haiti's Health Ministry said in a report Monday.
The report said that a total of 91,770 people have been infected, of whom 43,243 were hospitalized and 41,806 were discharged after their conditions improved.
The cholera epidemic has killed a total of 2,071 people in the tiny island state and experts from the United Nations said that this number could continue to rise.
According to the Health Ministry, the mortality rate is 2.3 percent and Artibonite has been the worst hit region, with 791 deaths."
US : 3 flu strains hit Iowa at once
An article from Des Moines Register :
" The flu is starting to hit home, with three different strains of the virus appearing in Iowa, state health officials said today.
“That means you could get three different kinds of flu in one year,” said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, medical director of the Iowa Department of Public Health. “In most typical years, you could get the flu once, and then you were basically done.”
Quinlisk said she’d never seen the situation in her more than 20 years working in public health.The good news, Quinlisk said, is this year’s version of the flu vaccine protects against all three bugs.
One of the current viruses is H1N1, which sickened hundreds of thousands of Iowans last fall and winter.
The new strain required a separate vaccine, which was in short supply for months. But this fall’s version of the general flu vaccine includes H1N1, and the shots are readily available."
" The flu is starting to hit home, with three different strains of the virus appearing in Iowa, state health officials said today.
“That means you could get three different kinds of flu in one year,” said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, medical director of the Iowa Department of Public Health. “In most typical years, you could get the flu once, and then you were basically done.”
Quinlisk said she’d never seen the situation in her more than 20 years working in public health.The good news, Quinlisk said, is this year’s version of the flu vaccine protects against all three bugs.
One of the current viruses is H1N1, which sickened hundreds of thousands of Iowans last fall and winter.
The new strain required a separate vaccine, which was in short supply for months. But this fall’s version of the general flu vaccine includes H1N1, and the shots are readily available."
Monday, December 6, 2010
Indonesia : Bird Flu Case Report Until November 2010
An official report from the Ministry of Health in Indonesia :
" At the end of November 2010 came the case of bird flu (H5N1) on behalf of Mrs. K (21 th) and cases of H1N1 Child A (7 years) who were treated at Dr. Hasan Sadikin (RSHS).
Ny. K (21 th), located at Jalan Holis vehicles, entered RSHS on November 22, 2010, enter the status of "suspect H5N1" and is now being treated at room Flamboyan RSHS. While the Child A (7 th), located in Bandung regency Cibodas, enter RSHS November 17, 2010.
Current status (+) positive on the basis of notification from the Ministry of Health Research and Development Number: LB.05.02/I/7574/2010 dated 19 November 2010 and currently also being treated at room Flamboyan RSHS.
RSHS already reported the case to the National Post Avian Influenza Ministry, Directorate of Primary Medical Care, West Java Provincial Health Office, Health Office City of Bandung and Bandung District Health Office."
" At the end of November 2010 came the case of bird flu (H5N1) on behalf of Mrs. K (21 th) and cases of H1N1 Child A (7 years) who were treated at Dr. Hasan Sadikin (RSHS).
Ny. K (21 th), located at Jalan Holis vehicles, entered RSHS on November 22, 2010, enter the status of "suspect H5N1" and is now being treated at room Flamboyan RSHS. While the Child A (7 th), located in Bandung regency Cibodas, enter RSHS November 17, 2010.
Current status (+) positive on the basis of notification from the Ministry of Health Research and Development Number: LB.05.02/I/7574/2010 dated 19 November 2010 and currently also being treated at room Flamboyan RSHS.
RSHS already reported the case to the National Post Avian Influenza Ministry, Directorate of Primary Medical Care, West Java Provincial Health Office, Health Office City of Bandung and Bandung District Health Office."
Indonesia : Suspected Bird Flu Patient Dies in Hospital Jamil
Translated article from Media Indonesia :
" PADANG - MICOM: Number of suspected bird flu patients who underwent treatment at the General Hospital Center M. Jamil, Padang, West Sumatra increases. During 2010 there were six patients who were treated the disease.
Hospital Public Relations M. Jamil Padang, Gustaianof, in Padang, Saturday (4 / 12) said of the six people suffering from bird flu susfect, one patient died while hospitalized M. Jamil Padang.
Patients who died ie, YY a river of sand transport workers, residents of Kampung Rice Taratak Mudiak, Muaro Kalaban, Sawahlunto. "The medical examination of M. Jamil Padang hospital, the victim was suspected of bird flu," he said.
He said there was one person who attended at the hospital M.jamil susfect bird flu patients on December 2, 2010 patients in the name of Barbie Elasah Laila (2). "The patient was first known to have suspected bird flu after treatment by a midwife, and then referred to the Hospital (RS) M. Djamil," he said.
According to him, to know whether these patients had positive bird flu, blood samples will be sent to Jakarta for further examination, "he said." In seven to 10 days in the future we will only accept the results of examination of blood samples, "he said."
" PADANG - MICOM: Number of suspected bird flu patients who underwent treatment at the General Hospital Center M. Jamil, Padang, West Sumatra increases. During 2010 there were six patients who were treated the disease.
Hospital Public Relations M. Jamil Padang, Gustaianof, in Padang, Saturday (4 / 12) said of the six people suffering from bird flu susfect, one patient died while hospitalized M. Jamil Padang.
Patients who died ie, YY a river of sand transport workers, residents of Kampung Rice Taratak Mudiak, Muaro Kalaban, Sawahlunto. "The medical examination of M. Jamil Padang hospital, the victim was suspected of bird flu," he said.
He said there was one person who attended at the hospital M.jamil susfect bird flu patients on December 2, 2010 patients in the name of Barbie Elasah Laila (2). "The patient was first known to have suspected bird flu after treatment by a midwife, and then referred to the Hospital (RS) M. Djamil," he said.
According to him, to know whether these patients had positive bird flu, blood samples will be sent to Jakarta for further examination, "he said." In seven to 10 days in the future we will only accept the results of examination of blood samples, "he said."
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