Via The Local :
" More Swedes have been infected with the virulent enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) bacteria which some health experts believe comes from an entirely new strain of the bacteria.
So far, 46 Swedes have been infected with and all of them are believed to have been infected while visiting Germany.
Of the Swedes suffering from EHEC, 15 have been diagnosed with the serious complication haemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), including a woman from Borås who died on Tuesday.
On Thursday, another person in Germany died after being infected by EHEC, according to the AFP news agency, marking the 18th fatality since the outbreak began.
More than 2,000 people in ten European countries have reported being sickened by the bacteria in the last month.
At the same time, officials at the World Health Organisation (WHO) believe the current wave of EHEC infections involves a strain unseen in any previous outbreak."
Friday, June 3, 2011
Japan : TEPCO needs to store 100,000 tons of tainted water
Via NHK News :
" Tokyo Electric Power Company says more than 100,000 tons of highly radioactive water has been leaked from the damaged reactors of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.
The operator warns that the water may overflow later this month during the rainy season and says it is struggling to find a place to store the water after filtering.
The basements of the first 4 reactor buildings are full of water that was injected to cool down the damaged reactors.
The situation is hampering efforts to achieve the ultimate goal of stabilizing the reactors.
TEPCO says 16,200 tons of water has been leaked outside Number One, 24,600 tons at Number 2, 28,100 tons at Number 3 and 22,900 tons at Number 4. It says another 13,300 tons of water has already been moved to a storage facility.
It says the 105,100 tons of water contains an estimated 720,000 terabecquerels of radioactive substances. Tera stands for one trillion.
On June 15th, TEPCO plans to start using equipment that can filter 1,200 tons of toxic water a day. In mid-August, it will also install an underground storage tank that can hold 100,000 tons of highly radioactive water.
TEPCO fears that the toxic water could overflow if the filter fails to work. It plans to secure more storage facilities."
" Tokyo Electric Power Company says more than 100,000 tons of highly radioactive water has been leaked from the damaged reactors of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.
The operator warns that the water may overflow later this month during the rainy season and says it is struggling to find a place to store the water after filtering.
The basements of the first 4 reactor buildings are full of water that was injected to cool down the damaged reactors.
The situation is hampering efforts to achieve the ultimate goal of stabilizing the reactors.
TEPCO says 16,200 tons of water has been leaked outside Number One, 24,600 tons at Number 2, 28,100 tons at Number 3 and 22,900 tons at Number 4. It says another 13,300 tons of water has already been moved to a storage facility.
It says the 105,100 tons of water contains an estimated 720,000 terabecquerels of radioactive substances. Tera stands for one trillion.
On June 15th, TEPCO plans to start using equipment that can filter 1,200 tons of toxic water a day. In mid-August, it will also install an underground storage tank that can hold 100,000 tons of highly radioactive water.
TEPCO fears that the toxic water could overflow if the filter fails to work. It plans to secure more storage facilities."
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Russia bans import of all raw vegetables from EU in wake of E.coli scare
Via The Telegraph :
" Russia angered the European Union on Thursday after it unexpectedly imposed a ban on the import of all raw vegetables from the 27-nation bloc in response to a deadly outbreak of E.coli linked to Germany.
In a move the European Commission condemned as "disproportionate," Russia said it was widening an earlier ban on vegetables from Germany and Spain to cover the entire EU with immediate effect and for an undefined period.
"The ban will remain in place until we are convinced that we have got the situation under control," said Gennady Onishchenko, Russia's top food safety official.
"Getting it under control means knowing the source of the infection, how it is transmitted, and most importantly of all, when the outbreak will be halted and when people will stop getting sick and dying." At least 17 people have died across Europe so far, while more than 1,500 people have fallen ill in eight different European countries including Britain.
Mr Onishchenko, who has a reputation for being outspoken, said the way in which the health scare had been handled showed that the EU's food safety system did not work and was too heavily politicised."
" Russia angered the European Union on Thursday after it unexpectedly imposed a ban on the import of all raw vegetables from the 27-nation bloc in response to a deadly outbreak of E.coli linked to Germany.
In a move the European Commission condemned as "disproportionate," Russia said it was widening an earlier ban on vegetables from Germany and Spain to cover the entire EU with immediate effect and for an undefined period.
"The ban will remain in place until we are convinced that we have got the situation under control," said Gennady Onishchenko, Russia's top food safety official.
"Getting it under control means knowing the source of the infection, how it is transmitted, and most importantly of all, when the outbreak will be halted and when people will stop getting sick and dying." At least 17 people have died across Europe so far, while more than 1,500 people have fallen ill in eight different European countries including Britain.
Mr Onishchenko, who has a reputation for being outspoken, said the way in which the health scare had been handled showed that the EU's food safety system did not work and was too heavily politicised."
Britain reports new E. coli cases linked to Germany
Via New York Post :
" LONDON : Britain said Thursday that it recorded four new cases of people infected with a deadly strain of E. coli, all of whom were linked to Germany, as fears grew over the spread of the bacteria, which was initially found in cucumbers.
Britain's Health Protection Agency confirmed four new cases of infection, bringing the UK's total to seven, Sky News reported.
Three of the new cases were Britons who recently traveled to Germany, and one was a German on vacation in the UK.
The agency warned travelers to Germany, particularly its northern areas, to avoid eating raw tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy salad -- and to report any medical problems immediately.
Earlier Thursday, Spain's prime minister demanded European compensation after Spanish cucumbers were wrongly blamed for the outbreak in Germany, with tests showing no signs of infection, AFP reported.
"Yesterday [Wednesday], it became clear, with the analyses carried out by the Spanish agency for food safety, that there is not the slightest indication that the origin of the serious infection is any Spanish product," Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said in an interview with Spanish national radio."
" LONDON : Britain said Thursday that it recorded four new cases of people infected with a deadly strain of E. coli, all of whom were linked to Germany, as fears grew over the spread of the bacteria, which was initially found in cucumbers.
Britain's Health Protection Agency confirmed four new cases of infection, bringing the UK's total to seven, Sky News reported.
Three of the new cases were Britons who recently traveled to Germany, and one was a German on vacation in the UK.
The agency warned travelers to Germany, particularly its northern areas, to avoid eating raw tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy salad -- and to report any medical problems immediately.
Earlier Thursday, Spain's prime minister demanded European compensation after Spanish cucumbers were wrongly blamed for the outbreak in Germany, with tests showing no signs of infection, AFP reported.
"Yesterday [Wednesday], it became clear, with the analyses carried out by the Spanish agency for food safety, that there is not the slightest indication that the origin of the serious infection is any Spanish product," Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said in an interview with Spanish national radio."
Germany / Europe : E.coli outbreak caused by toxic new strain
Via Reuters :
" A deadly outbreak of E.coli centred in Germany and spreading across Europe is caused by a dangerous new strain, Chinese scientists who analysed the bacteria said.
The scientists said the outbreak, which has killed 17 and made more than 1,500 others ill in at least 10 European countries and is thought to come from vegetables, carried genes making it resistant to several classes of antibiotics.
"This E. coli is a new strain of bacteria that is highly infectious and toxic," said the scientists at the Beijing Genomics Institute in Shenzhen city in southern China who are collaborating with colleagues in Germany.
World Health Organisation spokesperson Aphaluck Bhatiasevi said the WHO was waiting for more information from laboratories. "This strain has never been seen in an outbreak situation before," he said.
In a worsening trade row prompted by the outbreak, Russia banned imports of all raw vegetables from the European Union, prompting an immediate protest by the European commission."
" A deadly outbreak of E.coli centred in Germany and spreading across Europe is caused by a dangerous new strain, Chinese scientists who analysed the bacteria said.
The scientists said the outbreak, which has killed 17 and made more than 1,500 others ill in at least 10 European countries and is thought to come from vegetables, carried genes making it resistant to several classes of antibiotics.
"This E. coli is a new strain of bacteria that is highly infectious and toxic," said the scientists at the Beijing Genomics Institute in Shenzhen city in southern China who are collaborating with colleagues in Germany.
World Health Organisation spokesperson Aphaluck Bhatiasevi said the WHO was waiting for more information from laboratories. "This strain has never been seen in an outbreak situation before," he said.
In a worsening trade row prompted by the outbreak, Russia banned imports of all raw vegetables from the European Union, prompting an immediate protest by the European commission."
Ukraine : Doctors Affirm Fifth Cholera Case In Mariupol
Article from Ukranian News :
" Doctors have affirmed the fifth case of cholera in Mariupol, Donetsk region.
Ukrainian News learned this from a statement by the press service of the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service, the wording of which was made available to the agency.
"The fifth patient with signs of acute enteric infection in the city of Mariupol, who got ill on May 24 and was hospitalized on May 30, has been affirmed today as having cholera today. Doctors assure nothing poses threat to his life," reads the statement.
As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the fourth cholera case was affirmed in Mariupol on June 1.
As of May 29, three patients with cholera underwent medical treatment in Mariupol."
" Doctors have affirmed the fifth case of cholera in Mariupol, Donetsk region.
Ukrainian News learned this from a statement by the press service of the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Service, the wording of which was made available to the agency.
"The fifth patient with signs of acute enteric infection in the city of Mariupol, who got ill on May 24 and was hospitalized on May 30, has been affirmed today as having cholera today. Doctors assure nothing poses threat to his life," reads the statement.
As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the fourth cholera case was affirmed in Mariupol on June 1.
As of May 29, three patients with cholera underwent medical treatment in Mariupol."
Red Cross reopens Haiti cholera centre
A Google hosted AFP News :
" GENEVA : The Red Cross has reopened a cholera treatment centre near Port-au-Prince to fight a resurgence of a disease that killed thousands last year, said a statement on Thursday.
According to Haitian health authorities, at least 10 people died in recent days of a new cholera spike in areas near the Haitian capital.
About 1,000 cholera cases were admitted to the Carrefour hospital, south of the capital, they said.
The Red Cross "centre was originally established last year at the height of the epidemic and we have further stocks of medical equipment... ready to be released," said Gerhard Tauscher, cholera operation coordinator for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in a statement.
Reports of cholera in Haiti's urban areas had been trailing off since the beginning of the year, even if isolated cases were reported in rural areas."
" GENEVA : The Red Cross has reopened a cholera treatment centre near Port-au-Prince to fight a resurgence of a disease that killed thousands last year, said a statement on Thursday.
According to Haitian health authorities, at least 10 people died in recent days of a new cholera spike in areas near the Haitian capital.
About 1,000 cholera cases were admitted to the Carrefour hospital, south of the capital, they said.
The Red Cross "centre was originally established last year at the height of the epidemic and we have further stocks of medical equipment... ready to be released," said Gerhard Tauscher, cholera operation coordinator for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in a statement.
Reports of cholera in Haiti's urban areas had been trailing off since the beginning of the year, even if isolated cases were reported in rural areas."
Confirmed E. coli cases rise to 17 in Denmark
Via Xinhua :
" The number of confirmed cases of severe intestinal infection caused by a deadly E. coli outbreak has risen to 17 in Denmark, authorities said Thursday.
Nearly all the confirmed cases, including nine women and eight men, had recently traveled to Germany, where the outbreak started more than a week ago, according to the National Serum Institute (NSI).
Children are normally the most vulnerable to the infection. But Kaare Moelbak, an expert in epidemiology at the NSI, told Xinhua the outbreak is "very unusual" in that 88 percent of those infected are above the age of 20 years.
Food authorities here declared Danish cucumbers safe Tuesday following laboratory tests.
Germany is struggling to find the exact source of contamination. The outbreak has killed 18 people and sickened more than 1,500 others across Europe, including 470 who have developed a rare kidney failure complication, according to the latest reports.
Researchers have been unable to pinpoint the cause of the illness, which has hit at least nine European countries, and prompted Russia on Thursday to extend a ban on vegetables to the entire European Union.
German officials have warned people not to eat lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers. To avoid foodborne illnesses, WHO recommends people wash their hands before eating or cooking food, separating raw and cooked meat from other foods, thoroughly cooking food, and washing fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw. Experts also recommend peeling raw fruits and vegetables if possible."
" The number of confirmed cases of severe intestinal infection caused by a deadly E. coli outbreak has risen to 17 in Denmark, authorities said Thursday.
Nearly all the confirmed cases, including nine women and eight men, had recently traveled to Germany, where the outbreak started more than a week ago, according to the National Serum Institute (NSI).
Children are normally the most vulnerable to the infection. But Kaare Moelbak, an expert in epidemiology at the NSI, told Xinhua the outbreak is "very unusual" in that 88 percent of those infected are above the age of 20 years.
Food authorities here declared Danish cucumbers safe Tuesday following laboratory tests.
Germany is struggling to find the exact source of contamination. The outbreak has killed 18 people and sickened more than 1,500 others across Europe, including 470 who have developed a rare kidney failure complication, according to the latest reports.
Researchers have been unable to pinpoint the cause of the illness, which has hit at least nine European countries, and prompted Russia on Thursday to extend a ban on vegetables to the entire European Union.
German officials have warned people not to eat lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers. To avoid foodborne illnesses, WHO recommends people wash their hands before eating or cooking food, separating raw and cooked meat from other foods, thoroughly cooking food, and washing fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw. Experts also recommend peeling raw fruits and vegetables if possible."
New Zealand : Vaccine push for flu season
Article via Stuff :
" Winter is officially here this week, and with it comes the seasonal push to get people immunised against the flu as it starts doing the rounds of offices and schools.
Almost 950,000 doses of the flu vaccine have been distributed so far, which Health Minister Tony Ryall said was an indication that more than a million vaccines would be distributed this flu season.
While the flu was a mild to moderate illness for most people, the H1N1 swine flu pandemic had shown how serious the illness could be - potentially leading to serious complications or even death.
"With the official start of winter this week, it's important people who want to get protected against flu get immunised as soon as possible as it can take up to two weeks to develop immunity," Mr Ryall said.
People may not realise how costly the flu could be, with a recent study of the 2009 pandemic showing it cost $100,000 on average for critical hospital care in Australia and New Zealand, he said.
Some $85,000 of that went towards intensive care treatment alone."
" Winter is officially here this week, and with it comes the seasonal push to get people immunised against the flu as it starts doing the rounds of offices and schools.
Almost 950,000 doses of the flu vaccine have been distributed so far, which Health Minister Tony Ryall said was an indication that more than a million vaccines would be distributed this flu season.
While the flu was a mild to moderate illness for most people, the H1N1 swine flu pandemic had shown how serious the illness could be - potentially leading to serious complications or even death.
"With the official start of winter this week, it's important people who want to get protected against flu get immunised as soon as possible as it can take up to two weeks to develop immunity," Mr Ryall said.
People may not realise how costly the flu could be, with a recent study of the 2009 pandemic showing it cost $100,000 on average for critical hospital care in Australia and New Zealand, he said.
Some $85,000 of that went towards intensive care treatment alone."
WHO : EHEC outbreak - Increase in cases in Germany
WHO statement with regards to EHEC in Germany :
" 2 June 2011 - Cases of haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) and enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) continue to rise in Germany. Ten countries have now reported cases to WHO/Europe.
As of 31 May 2011, nine patients in Germany have died of HUS, and six of EHEC. One person in Sweden has also died. There are many hospitalized patients, several of them requiring intensive care, including dialysis.
The number of patients in Germany presenting with HUS and bloody diarrhoea caused by STEC is 470, which is 97 more than the day before, and 1064 of EHEC, which is an increase of 268. Overall in Europe, 499 cases of HUS and 1115 cases of EHEC have been reported, 1614 in total.
Cases have now also been notified from: Austria (HUS 0, EHEC 2), Denmark (7, 7), France, (0, 6), Netherlands (4, 4), Norway, (0, 1), Spain, (1, 0), Sweden (15, 28) and Switzerland (0, 2) and the United Kingdom. (2, 1) All these cases except two are in people who had recently visited northern Germany or in one case, had contact with a visitor from northern Germany.
Numerous investigations are continuing into the cause of the outbreak, which is still unclear.
In accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR), WHO is keeping Member States informed about the latest developments and providing technical guidance on further investigation of the ongoing outbreak. WHO does not recommend any trade restrictions related to this outbreak."
" 2 June 2011 - Cases of haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) and enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) continue to rise in Germany. Ten countries have now reported cases to WHO/Europe.
As of 31 May 2011, nine patients in Germany have died of HUS, and six of EHEC. One person in Sweden has also died. There are many hospitalized patients, several of them requiring intensive care, including dialysis.
The number of patients in Germany presenting with HUS and bloody diarrhoea caused by STEC is 470, which is 97 more than the day before, and 1064 of EHEC, which is an increase of 268. Overall in Europe, 499 cases of HUS and 1115 cases of EHEC have been reported, 1614 in total.
Cases have now also been notified from: Austria (HUS 0, EHEC 2), Denmark (7, 7), France, (0, 6), Netherlands (4, 4), Norway, (0, 1), Spain, (1, 0), Sweden (15, 28) and Switzerland (0, 2) and the United Kingdom. (2, 1) All these cases except two are in people who had recently visited northern Germany or in one case, had contact with a visitor from northern Germany.
Numerous investigations are continuing into the cause of the outbreak, which is still unclear.
In accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR), WHO is keeping Member States informed about the latest developments and providing technical guidance on further investigation of the ongoing outbreak. WHO does not recommend any trade restrictions related to this outbreak."
Japan : Wastewater rises, fears mount
Via NHK News :
" The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is struggling to remove pools of highly radioactive wastewater as fears of an overflow get more intense.
Tokyo Electric Power Company says wastewater levels rose around 6 centimeters inside the No.2 reactor turbine building, and in its utility tunnel, during the 24-hour period through Thursday morning.
Increases were also seen inside the No.3 and 4 reactor turbine buildings.
The water level in the utility tunnel is now just 28 centimeters from the surface outside the No.2 reactor, and 24 centimeters from the surface outside the No.3 reactor.
Tokyo Electric plans to start using a water purifier by the middle of this month. But as an emergency measure it's preparing to remove wastewater pooled inside the No.3 reactor turbine building to its turbine condenser.
The utility is also considering using 2 additional buildings inside the compound as storage.
The level of wastewater inside the No.1 reactor building dropped 8 centimeters on Thursday morning from Wednesday, unlike the other facilities.
Tokyo Electric is measuring the level of radiation in groundwater near the plant to check for possible wastewater leakage."
" The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is struggling to remove pools of highly radioactive wastewater as fears of an overflow get more intense.
Tokyo Electric Power Company says wastewater levels rose around 6 centimeters inside the No.2 reactor turbine building, and in its utility tunnel, during the 24-hour period through Thursday morning.
Increases were also seen inside the No.3 and 4 reactor turbine buildings.
The water level in the utility tunnel is now just 28 centimeters from the surface outside the No.2 reactor, and 24 centimeters from the surface outside the No.3 reactor.
Tokyo Electric plans to start using a water purifier by the middle of this month. But as an emergency measure it's preparing to remove wastewater pooled inside the No.3 reactor turbine building to its turbine condenser.
The utility is also considering using 2 additional buildings inside the compound as storage.
The level of wastewater inside the No.1 reactor building dropped 8 centimeters on Thursday morning from Wednesday, unlike the other facilities.
Tokyo Electric is measuring the level of radiation in groundwater near the plant to check for possible wastewater leakage."
India : First flu test lab in Imphal
Via The Telegraph :
" Manipur will be the first state in the Northeast to have bird flu testing facilities as the state veterinary and animal husbandry department is all set to open a high-security laboratory.
The Centre sanctioned the setting up of such laboratories in four northeastern states — Manipur, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya — in view of the vulnerability of the region to diseases like bird flu and swine flu.
“Of the four states in the Northeast, Manipur has better work progress. We are ready with the laboratory. Finishing touches are being given and we will be opening it very soon,” an official of the veterinary and husbandry department told The Telegraph.
The laboratory will be known as the Animal Biosafety level II laboratory. Animal/bird materials, tissues, blood samples and carcasses can be tested here without the fear of spreading any disease to the outside world."
" Manipur will be the first state in the Northeast to have bird flu testing facilities as the state veterinary and animal husbandry department is all set to open a high-security laboratory.
The Centre sanctioned the setting up of such laboratories in four northeastern states — Manipur, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya — in view of the vulnerability of the region to diseases like bird flu and swine flu.
“Of the four states in the Northeast, Manipur has better work progress. We are ready with the laboratory. Finishing touches are being given and we will be opening it very soon,” an official of the veterinary and husbandry department told The Telegraph.
The laboratory will be known as the Animal Biosafety level II laboratory. Animal/bird materials, tissues, blood samples and carcasses can be tested here without the fear of spreading any disease to the outside world."
Malaysia : Taiwan fruit and energy drinks being tested for carcinogens
Article from Malaysia's The Star, excerpt :
" PETALING JAYA: Three brands of a Taiwanese food product are being removed from the shelves here for containing carcinogens, while the Health Ministry is testing various other brands from the country.
The banned items comprise fruit and energy drinks (see graphics). The products being tested for possible traces of carcinogens - di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and di-isononyl phthalate (DINP) include fruit juices, jellies, jams, yoghurts and sports drinks.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the ministry had been informed by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that three brands of food products were tainted with carcinogens.
He said DEHP and DINP were usually used in the production of plastic to make it more flexible."
" PETALING JAYA: Three brands of a Taiwanese food product are being removed from the shelves here for containing carcinogens, while the Health Ministry is testing various other brands from the country.
The banned items comprise fruit and energy drinks (see graphics). The products being tested for possible traces of carcinogens - di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and di-isononyl phthalate (DINP) include fruit juices, jellies, jams, yoghurts and sports drinks.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the ministry had been informed by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that three brands of food products were tainted with carcinogens.
He said DEHP and DINP were usually used in the production of plastic to make it more flexible."
South Korea : One More Outbreak of H5N1 Bird Flu Reported
Via The Poultry Site :
" SOUTH KOREA : There has been one new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) on a farm in the north of the country.
The veterinary authority sent Follow Up Report No. 14 dated 31 May to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes a single outbreak of HPAI at a farm at Yeoncheon-gun in GyeongGi province in the far north of the country. The outbreak started on 16 May on a chicken farm. Of the flock of 15,800 birds, 650 died and the rest were destroyed.
The presence of the H5N1 subtype of the HPAI virus has been confirmed."
" SOUTH KOREA : There has been one new outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) on a farm in the north of the country.
The veterinary authority sent Follow Up Report No. 14 dated 31 May to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes a single outbreak of HPAI at a farm at Yeoncheon-gun in GyeongGi province in the far north of the country. The outbreak started on 16 May on a chicken farm. Of the flock of 15,800 birds, 650 died and the rest were destroyed.
The presence of the H5N1 subtype of the HPAI virus has been confirmed."
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Blame game begins over German E. coli outbreak
Article from DW World, E Coli outbreak in German seems to be getting from bad to worse and it's spreading in Europe, and now you have the fingers pointing everywhere :
" The outbreak of a deadly strain of E. coli bacteria found on cucumbers in Germany has claimed 16 lives. With new cases emerging in seven other countries, governments are pointing fingers at the German authorities.
The highly virulent strain of the Enterohemorrhagic E.coli bacteria (EHEC) claimed its first victim outside Germany on Tuesday, while health authorities in seven other European countries confirmed a total of at least 73 cases of the infection. More than 1,500 cases have been reported in Germany.
A hospital in Sweden announced the death of a woman from the EHEC bacteria. The woman, who was in her 50s, had been treated in the southwestern Swedish town of Boras after a recent visit to Germany.
The gastro-intestinal bacterial infection - believed to stem from contaminated vegetables and possibly meat - has now spread beyond Germany and Sweden to Poland, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France and Britain.
Sweden confirmed 40 cases, Denmark 14, the Netherlands seven, France six, Britain three, and Poland, Norway and Switzerland one each.
On Sunday, a 91-year-old woman in North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany died from the intestinal bacteria, and the state confirmed a second death on Monday.
This brings the total number of victims who have died from the recent E. coli outbreak in Germany to at least 15. Most of the victims have been women living in northern Germany.
Tensions rise as outbreak spreads
The source of the deadly E. coli strain was thought to be cucumbers imported from Spain, but tests on the vegetable done by the Hamburg Health Department ruled this out and the search for the source of the infections continues.
The outbreak, one of the largest of its kind, has raised diplomatic tensions between Germany, Spain, France and Russia. Moscow has banned some vegetable imports and is threatening to extend the ban to the whole of the European Union.
Spanish media reported that Germany, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Hungary, Sweden, Belgium and Russia were blocking entry of Spanish cucumbers."
" The outbreak of a deadly strain of E. coli bacteria found on cucumbers in Germany has claimed 16 lives. With new cases emerging in seven other countries, governments are pointing fingers at the German authorities.
The highly virulent strain of the Enterohemorrhagic E.coli bacteria (EHEC) claimed its first victim outside Germany on Tuesday, while health authorities in seven other European countries confirmed a total of at least 73 cases of the infection. More than 1,500 cases have been reported in Germany.
A hospital in Sweden announced the death of a woman from the EHEC bacteria. The woman, who was in her 50s, had been treated in the southwestern Swedish town of Boras after a recent visit to Germany.
The gastro-intestinal bacterial infection - believed to stem from contaminated vegetables and possibly meat - has now spread beyond Germany and Sweden to Poland, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France and Britain.
Sweden confirmed 40 cases, Denmark 14, the Netherlands seven, France six, Britain three, and Poland, Norway and Switzerland one each.
On Sunday, a 91-year-old woman in North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany died from the intestinal bacteria, and the state confirmed a second death on Monday.
This brings the total number of victims who have died from the recent E. coli outbreak in Germany to at least 15. Most of the victims have been women living in northern Germany.
Tensions rise as outbreak spreads
The source of the deadly E. coli strain was thought to be cucumbers imported from Spain, but tests on the vegetable done by the Hamburg Health Department ruled this out and the search for the source of the infections continues.
The outbreak, one of the largest of its kind, has raised diplomatic tensions between Germany, Spain, France and Russia. Moscow has banned some vegetable imports and is threatening to extend the ban to the whole of the European Union.
Spanish media reported that Germany, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Hungary, Sweden, Belgium and Russia were blocking entry of Spanish cucumbers."
Canadian who's never been to India has superbug
Via Times of India :
" NDM-1, the enzyme associated with extensive antibiotic resistance that was found in India last year, has jumped to new bacteria strains and infected a Canadian, who had no travel history to India.
For the first time, scientists in Canada have reported local acquisition of an organism producing NDM-1 in Ontario, Canada. NDM-1 has been found in bacterial species other than E coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
The findings are in tune with a TOI report a few weeks ago that had pointed out about NDM-1 gene, which has been jumping between various species of bacteria at a "superfast speed."
British scientists from the Cardiff University, who first reported on the existence of NDM-1, told TOI that when it was first detected in 2006, the bacteria were found only in E Coli.
"We have found NDM-1 gene in more than 20 different species of bacteria. NDM-1 can move at unprecedented speed, making more and more species of bacteria drug resistant," said Dr Mark Toleman told TOI.
Dr Susan Poutanen from Mount Sinai Hospital and University Health Network says in the latest study, "These scenarios show that local acquisition of an organism producing NDM-1 has already occurred in Ontario, Canada, that it has been found in bacterial species other than E Coli and K pneumoniae, that treatment options are limited for infections with NDM-1-producing organisms and that the detection of NDM-1-producing organisms by a laboratory can be difficult."
" NDM-1, the enzyme associated with extensive antibiotic resistance that was found in India last year, has jumped to new bacteria strains and infected a Canadian, who had no travel history to India.
For the first time, scientists in Canada have reported local acquisition of an organism producing NDM-1 in Ontario, Canada. NDM-1 has been found in bacterial species other than E coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
The findings are in tune with a TOI report a few weeks ago that had pointed out about NDM-1 gene, which has been jumping between various species of bacteria at a "superfast speed."
British scientists from the Cardiff University, who first reported on the existence of NDM-1, told TOI that when it was first detected in 2006, the bacteria were found only in E Coli.
"We have found NDM-1 gene in more than 20 different species of bacteria. NDM-1 can move at unprecedented speed, making more and more species of bacteria drug resistant," said Dr Mark Toleman told TOI.
Dr Susan Poutanen from Mount Sinai Hospital and University Health Network says in the latest study, "These scenarios show that local acquisition of an organism producing NDM-1 has already occurred in Ontario, Canada, that it has been found in bacterial species other than E Coli and K pneumoniae, that treatment options are limited for infections with NDM-1-producing organisms and that the detection of NDM-1-producing organisms by a laboratory can be difficult."
Namibia on avian flu alert
Via IBN Live :
" Namibia is on alert for avian flu following a recent outbreak of the disease in neighbouring South Africa. The outbreak in South Africa has caused severe interruptions and losses for poultry and ostrich business operations in that country. The acting Chief of Veterinary Services in Namibia's Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF), Dr Cleopas Bamhare on Friday assured chicken merchants that poultry imports from South Africa are being monitored strictly.
"Namibia imports chicken from only monitored poultry farms in neighbouring South Africa. We do not import ostriches, but allow chickens from high security poultry farms in South Africa," he said. Avian influenza (AI), commonly called bird flu, is an infectious viral disease of birds. An outbreak was first detected on 9 April, 2011 at ostrich farms in South Africa's Klein Karoo Valley in the Western Cape Province."
" Namibia is on alert for avian flu following a recent outbreak of the disease in neighbouring South Africa. The outbreak in South Africa has caused severe interruptions and losses for poultry and ostrich business operations in that country. The acting Chief of Veterinary Services in Namibia's Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF), Dr Cleopas Bamhare on Friday assured chicken merchants that poultry imports from South Africa are being monitored strictly.
"Namibia imports chicken from only monitored poultry farms in neighbouring South Africa. We do not import ostriches, but allow chickens from high security poultry farms in South Africa," he said. Avian influenza (AI), commonly called bird flu, is an infectious viral disease of birds. An outbreak was first detected on 9 April, 2011 at ostrich farms in South Africa's Klein Karoo Valley in the Western Cape Province."
Russia tightens border controls over cholera outbreak in Ukraine
Via Ria Novosti :
" Russia's Consumer Protection Service in the southern Rostov Region has stepped up controls on the border with Ukraine following an outbreak of cholera in the neighboring Donetsk region, the regional CPS head said on Wednesday.
Four cholera cases were registered in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, 50 km from the border, in late May.
All of them were attributed to fish caught in a local river.
CPS regional administration head Mikhail Solovyov said he doubted fish could have been the source of contamination, suggesting that the cholera bacterium, known as Vibrio cholerae, had most likely been transferred through the water supply system."
" Russia's Consumer Protection Service in the southern Rostov Region has stepped up controls on the border with Ukraine following an outbreak of cholera in the neighboring Donetsk region, the regional CPS head said on Wednesday.
Four cholera cases were registered in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, 50 km from the border, in late May.
All of them were attributed to fish caught in a local river.
CPS regional administration head Mikhail Solovyov said he doubted fish could have been the source of contamination, suggesting that the cholera bacterium, known as Vibrio cholerae, had most likely been transferred through the water supply system."
German health officials report 365 new cases of people sickened in bacterial outbreak
Article from The Canadian Press / Google Hosted News :
" BERLIN : The number of people reported sick in Germany from a foodborne bacterial outbreak that has already killed 16 spiked over the last 24 hours, with nearly 100 more people suffering from severe and potentially fatal symptoms, the national disease control centre said Wednesday.
Agriculture Minister Ilse Aigner said scientists were working nonstop to find the source of the unusual strain of the E. coli bacteria that is believed to have been spread in Europe on tainted vegetables — and where in the long journey from farm to grocery store the contamination occurred.
"Hundreds of tests have been done and the responsible agencies ... have determined that most of the patients who have been sickened ate cucumbers, tomatoes and leaf lettuce and primarily in northern Germany," Aigner said on ARD television. "The states that have conducted the tests must now follow back the delivery path to see how the cucumbers, or tomatoes or lettuce got here."
German authorities initially pointed to a few cucumbers from Spain, but further tests showed that those vegetables, while contaminated, did not cause the outbreak. But officials are still warning all Germans to avoid eating raw cucumbers, tomatoes or lettuce."
" BERLIN : The number of people reported sick in Germany from a foodborne bacterial outbreak that has already killed 16 spiked over the last 24 hours, with nearly 100 more people suffering from severe and potentially fatal symptoms, the national disease control centre said Wednesday.
Agriculture Minister Ilse Aigner said scientists were working nonstop to find the source of the unusual strain of the E. coli bacteria that is believed to have been spread in Europe on tainted vegetables — and where in the long journey from farm to grocery store the contamination occurred.
"Hundreds of tests have been done and the responsible agencies ... have determined that most of the patients who have been sickened ate cucumbers, tomatoes and leaf lettuce and primarily in northern Germany," Aigner said on ARD television. "The states that have conducted the tests must now follow back the delivery path to see how the cucumbers, or tomatoes or lettuce got here."
German authorities initially pointed to a few cucumbers from Spain, but further tests showed that those vegetables, while contaminated, did not cause the outbreak. But officials are still warning all Germans to avoid eating raw cucumbers, tomatoes or lettuce."
Spain mulls action against Hamburg for E.coli blame
Via Reuters, excerpt :
" Spain said on Wednesday it was considering legal action against German regional authorities for blaming its produce for an E. coli outbreak that has killed 16 people in Germany, Sweden and other countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba recalled that on May 26 health authorities in the German state of Hamburg said Spanish cucumbers were found to be contaminated with E.coli, but did not show Spain was the source of the strain."
" Spain said on Wednesday it was considering legal action against German regional authorities for blaming its produce for an E. coli outbreak that has killed 16 people in Germany, Sweden and other countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba recalled that on May 26 health authorities in the German state of Hamburg said Spanish cucumbers were found to be contaminated with E.coli, but did not show Spain was the source of the strain."
Deadly E. coli infections still rising in Germany
Via BBC, excerpt :
" German researchers are still trying to identify the source of a deadly E. coli outbreak after Spanish cucumbers were found not to have the lethal strain.
About 100 patients in north Germany are reported to be suffering the most severe and potentially fatal symptoms.
The E. coli has killed 16 people - 15 in Germany and one in Sweden.
The reprieve for the Spanish cucumber came too late for growers, who were forced to destroy tonnes of freshly harvested vegetables in southern Spain.
Shoppers in northern Germany are even boycotting locally grown vegetables, the German newspaper die Welt reports.
Germany's Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has advised people not to eat raw vegetables, especially in northern Germany."
" German researchers are still trying to identify the source of a deadly E. coli outbreak after Spanish cucumbers were found not to have the lethal strain.
About 100 patients in north Germany are reported to be suffering the most severe and potentially fatal symptoms.
The E. coli has killed 16 people - 15 in Germany and one in Sweden.
The reprieve for the Spanish cucumber came too late for growers, who were forced to destroy tonnes of freshly harvested vegetables in southern Spain.
Shoppers in northern Germany are even boycotting locally grown vegetables, the German newspaper die Welt reports.
Germany's Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has advised people not to eat raw vegetables, especially in northern Germany."
Australia : Flu cases up 50 per cent
Article from Brisbane Times :
" Flu cases in Queensland have increased by more than half since last year, causing concern among doctors about an early on-set of flu season.
The Australian Medical Association Queensland has revealed close to 1600 cases of flu have been reported across the state this year, with as many as 460 cases reported over the last five weeks alone.
As many as 30 per cent of the flu cases reported were the H1N1 virus, more commonly known as swine flu."
" Flu cases in Queensland have increased by more than half since last year, causing concern among doctors about an early on-set of flu season.
The Australian Medical Association Queensland has revealed close to 1600 cases of flu have been reported across the state this year, with as many as 460 cases reported over the last five weeks alone.
As many as 30 per cent of the flu cases reported were the H1N1 virus, more commonly known as swine flu."
More than 100 children infected with viral encephalitis in E China
Via Xinhua, excerpt :
" More than 100 children in Fujian Province have been infected with viral encephalitis since the beginning of May, local health authorities said Wednesday.
Hospitals in Anxi County have reported 200 such cases since June 1, of which 115 have been confirmed, said Wu Zhengxin, director of the county's health bureau.
An investigation by experts from the Ministry of Health and local disease control centers has indicated that the outbreak was caused by the ECHO30-type intestinal virus, according to Wu.
Infected local children were being treated at Mingxuan Hospital of Anxi County and were in stable condition, Wu said.
Another nine children, also from Anxi County, were diagnosed in hospitals in Xiamen City of Fujian and were receiving treatment there, Wu added."
" More than 100 children in Fujian Province have been infected with viral encephalitis since the beginning of May, local health authorities said Wednesday.
Hospitals in Anxi County have reported 200 such cases since June 1, of which 115 have been confirmed, said Wu Zhengxin, director of the county's health bureau.
An investigation by experts from the Ministry of Health and local disease control centers has indicated that the outbreak was caused by the ECHO30-type intestinal virus, according to Wu.
Infected local children were being treated at Mingxuan Hospital of Anxi County and were in stable condition, Wu said.
Another nine children, also from Anxi County, were diagnosed in hospitals in Xiamen City of Fujian and were receiving treatment there, Wu added."
Indonesia : Bird Flu Patient Heals
Press release from Indonesia's Ministry of Health, some good news being reported :
" KN (P, 1.2 years), North Jakarta residents who tested positive for H5N1 virus (bird flu) based on the results of Laboratory Research and Development Agency Ministry of Health, declared cured after being treated intensively in AI referral hospitals in North Jakarta. Until now KN conditions remain healthy.
KN started getting ill on 3 April 2011 with symptoms of fever, cough, diarrhea and shortness. The patient recovered from surveillance activities SARI (Severe acute Respiratory Infection), which is coordinated Balitbangkes. He referred to the hospital on 8 April 2011 and is getting treatment at the referral hospital care with a diagnosis Bronkhopneumoni.
To identify risk factors, we conducted an epidemiological investigation into the patient's house and surrounding environment. The strongest risk factor, a week before the ill patients were invited his father to the market near his house to buy free-range chicken and KN participated holding the chicken.
Tjandra Yoga Aditama as the focal point of IHR (International Health Reagulation) has informed also about the case to the WHO."
" KN (P, 1.2 years), North Jakarta residents who tested positive for H5N1 virus (bird flu) based on the results of Laboratory Research and Development Agency Ministry of Health, declared cured after being treated intensively in AI referral hospitals in North Jakarta. Until now KN conditions remain healthy.
KN started getting ill on 3 April 2011 with symptoms of fever, cough, diarrhea and shortness. The patient recovered from surveillance activities SARI (Severe acute Respiratory Infection), which is coordinated Balitbangkes. He referred to the hospital on 8 April 2011 and is getting treatment at the referral hospital care with a diagnosis Bronkhopneumoni.
To identify risk factors, we conducted an epidemiological investigation into the patient's house and surrounding environment. The strongest risk factor, a week before the ill patients were invited his father to the market near his house to buy free-range chicken and KN participated holding the chicken.
Tjandra Yoga Aditama as the focal point of IHR (International Health Reagulation) has informed also about the case to the WHO."
Japan : IAEA report on nuclear crisis says tsunami risk was underestimated
Via Japan Today :
" TOKYO : A group of experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency acknowledged in a summary of a report on the Fukushima nuclear crisis that the risks of tsunami were underestimated and called for the independence of nuclear regulatory authorities to be ensured.
The preliminary report submitted Wednesday said Japan’s response was exemplary. However, it added that the tsunami hazard for several nuclear sites was underestimated and called for greater preparation.
The report was handed to Goshi Hosono, a special adviser to Prime Minister Naoto Kan on the country’s worst nuclear accident, which was triggered by the massive March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
“I think there are many constructive suggestions in this report,” said Hosono. “We will read it thoroughly.”
The IAEA team, led by Mike Weightman, the head of Britain’s Office for Nuclear Regulation, plans to present its report at a ministerial meeting on nuclear safety in Vienna from June 20 to 24.
Hidehiko Nishiyama, a spokesman for the government’s nuclear safety agency, said Japan hopes to use the IAEA report as a reference in its efforts to contain the nuclear crisis, and in reviewing ways to enhance the country’s nuclear safety in the future."
" TOKYO : A group of experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency acknowledged in a summary of a report on the Fukushima nuclear crisis that the risks of tsunami were underestimated and called for the independence of nuclear regulatory authorities to be ensured.
The preliminary report submitted Wednesday said Japan’s response was exemplary. However, it added that the tsunami hazard for several nuclear sites was underestimated and called for greater preparation.
The report was handed to Goshi Hosono, a special adviser to Prime Minister Naoto Kan on the country’s worst nuclear accident, which was triggered by the massive March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
“I think there are many constructive suggestions in this report,” said Hosono. “We will read it thoroughly.”
The IAEA team, led by Mike Weightman, the head of Britain’s Office for Nuclear Regulation, plans to present its report at a ministerial meeting on nuclear safety in Vienna from June 20 to 24.
Hidehiko Nishiyama, a spokesman for the government’s nuclear safety agency, said Japan hopes to use the IAEA report as a reference in its efforts to contain the nuclear crisis, and in reviewing ways to enhance the country’s nuclear safety in the future."
NEWS SCAN: Plague in New Mexico, cholera in 3 countries, measles update
From CIDRAP :
" New Mexico confirms 2nd human plague case
78-year-old man from Santa Fe County has contracted New Mexico's second case of bubonic plague in less than a month, according to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDH). The man is recovering in a hospital, according to a department news release. The first case was confirmed May 6 in a 58-year-old man from the same county who also was hospitalized but is now recovering at home. "We are seeing plague activity in both humans and animals from many different locations of north-central New Mexico," said NMDH Secretary Dr. Catherine Torres. "Everyone needs to be aware of the situation and take precautions to avoid rodents and their fleas." Plague, a bacterial disease, is generally transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas but can also be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals, including rodents, other wildlife, and pets, according to the NMDH.
Cholera stalks Haiti, Dominican Republic, Somalia
Cholera cases are on the rise again in Haiti and the neighboring Dominican Republic, and Somalia is also fighting an epidemic, according to press reports. The disease is increasing in Haiti's West department, and health agencies are responding quickly in an effort to keep the pathogen from spreading to Port-au-Prince, said World Health Organization (WHO) spokeswoman Fadela Chaib, according to a May 27 United Nations press release. More than 300,000 Haitians have had cholera and more than 5,000 have died in the epidemic that began there in 2010.
Toddler in Washington state contracts measles
A 2-year-old boy from Port Orchard, Wash., who had no history of travel has contracted measles, the first case in Kitsap County since 1999, according to county health officials. The boy had received his first measles shot but was not yet due to receive a second dose, which would have afforded more complete protection, according to the Kitsap Sun. The CDC confirmed the case on May 27. His is the third measles case in the state this year."
" New Mexico confirms 2nd human plague case
78-year-old man from Santa Fe County has contracted New Mexico's second case of bubonic plague in less than a month, according to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDH). The man is recovering in a hospital, according to a department news release. The first case was confirmed May 6 in a 58-year-old man from the same county who also was hospitalized but is now recovering at home. "We are seeing plague activity in both humans and animals from many different locations of north-central New Mexico," said NMDH Secretary Dr. Catherine Torres. "Everyone needs to be aware of the situation and take precautions to avoid rodents and their fleas." Plague, a bacterial disease, is generally transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas but can also be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals, including rodents, other wildlife, and pets, according to the NMDH.
Cholera stalks Haiti, Dominican Republic, Somalia
Cholera cases are on the rise again in Haiti and the neighboring Dominican Republic, and Somalia is also fighting an epidemic, according to press reports. The disease is increasing in Haiti's West department, and health agencies are responding quickly in an effort to keep the pathogen from spreading to Port-au-Prince, said World Health Organization (WHO) spokeswoman Fadela Chaib, according to a May 27 United Nations press release. More than 300,000 Haitians have had cholera and more than 5,000 have died in the epidemic that began there in 2010.
Toddler in Washington state contracts measles
A 2-year-old boy from Port Orchard, Wash., who had no history of travel has contracted measles, the first case in Kitsap County since 1999, according to county health officials. The boy had received his first measles shot but was not yet due to receive a second dose, which would have afforded more complete protection, according to the Kitsap Sun. The CDC confirmed the case on May 27. His is the third measles case in the state this year."
Vietnam : New clade of H5N1 virus found
Via VOV News :
" The Veterinary Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported on the action mechanism of clade 2.3.2 avian influenza virus (H5N1) in northern provinces.
The experiments with the new virus clade showed that 100 percent of tested chickens died in three days and 20 percent of tested ducks died within seven days. Considering the severe effects that the virus has on chickens, the Government agreed to postpone vaccination against the avian influenza H5N1 due to the fact that the vaccine does not work against the new type of virus.
The Veterinary Department is seeking the suitable vaccine against the virus and will issue detailed instructions to northern provinces."
" The Veterinary Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported on the action mechanism of clade 2.3.2 avian influenza virus (H5N1) in northern provinces.
The experiments with the new virus clade showed that 100 percent of tested chickens died in three days and 20 percent of tested ducks died within seven days. Considering the severe effects that the virus has on chickens, the Government agreed to postpone vaccination against the avian influenza H5N1 due to the fact that the vaccine does not work against the new type of virus.
The Veterinary Department is seeking the suitable vaccine against the virus and will issue detailed instructions to northern provinces."
Severity of Europe E. coli outbreak stuns experts
Via Associated Press, excerpt :
" The foodborne bacterial outbreak that has hit Germany and other European nations is unlike anything Western experts have seen: 16 dead and more than 1,000 sick, including nearly 400 suffering severe and potentially fatal symptoms. But several days into the health threat, scientists remain unsure what produce - and what country - is responsible."
" The foodborne bacterial outbreak that has hit Germany and other European nations is unlike anything Western experts have seen: 16 dead and more than 1,000 sick, including nearly 400 suffering severe and potentially fatal symptoms. But several days into the health threat, scientists remain unsure what produce - and what country - is responsible."
Bolivia reports seven new A/H1N1 flu cases
Via Xinhua :
" Bolivia Tuesday reported seven new cases of A/H1N1 influenza and an increase of severe respiratory infections.
Bolivia's Health and Sports Minister Nila Heredia ordered all health centers in the country to reactivate preventive measures to avoid increase of A/H1N1 influenza cases.
Heredia said severe respiratory infections had increased in past weeks due to strong cold affecting some provinces, mainly including La Paz, Oruro, Potosi and Cochabamba.
She also suggested children should wear more clothes to avoid flu caused by low temperatures."
" Bolivia Tuesday reported seven new cases of A/H1N1 influenza and an increase of severe respiratory infections.
Bolivia's Health and Sports Minister Nila Heredia ordered all health centers in the country to reactivate preventive measures to avoid increase of A/H1N1 influenza cases.
Heredia said severe respiratory infections had increased in past weeks due to strong cold affecting some provinces, mainly including La Paz, Oruro, Potosi and Cochabamba.
She also suggested children should wear more clothes to avoid flu caused by low temperatures."
New Zealand : Deadly swine flu will return says expert
Via Stuff :
" Swine flu will return this year to "mop up" those who previously escaped infection, a leading flu expert says.
More people will be hospitalised and some may die as a result of influenza viruses, with "substantial outbreaks" of several flu strains expected in retirement homes and schools.
But flu rates are currently lower than previous years.
Canterbury District Health Board virologist Lance Jennings said although it would be less prevalent, the potentially deadly swine flu would return would return to New Zealand this season.
"Sadly, we will see some people admitted to hospital and possibly die from this virus again," he said.
Fifteen people died from swine flu in New Zealand last year.
He predicted at least three viruses would be circulating this year, including H1N1, or swine flu, H3N2 and influenza B.
All six flu cases confirmed last week proved to be the influenza B virus, he said.
As some of those viruses had not been in circulation in recent years, there would be "substantial outbreaks" in retirement homes and schools.
"We have seen that influenza viruses do have a devastating effect on some people," he said.
But Dr Jennings said flu rates were currently lower than previous years while vaccination rates were relatively high."
" Swine flu will return this year to "mop up" those who previously escaped infection, a leading flu expert says.
More people will be hospitalised and some may die as a result of influenza viruses, with "substantial outbreaks" of several flu strains expected in retirement homes and schools.
But flu rates are currently lower than previous years.
Canterbury District Health Board virologist Lance Jennings said although it would be less prevalent, the potentially deadly swine flu would return would return to New Zealand this season.
"Sadly, we will see some people admitted to hospital and possibly die from this virus again," he said.
Fifteen people died from swine flu in New Zealand last year.
He predicted at least three viruses would be circulating this year, including H1N1, or swine flu, H3N2 and influenza B.
All six flu cases confirmed last week proved to be the influenza B virus, he said.
As some of those viruses had not been in circulation in recent years, there would be "substantial outbreaks" in retirement homes and schools.
"We have seen that influenza viruses do have a devastating effect on some people," he said.
But Dr Jennings said flu rates were currently lower than previous years while vaccination rates were relatively high."
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