Via Times of India :
" NEW DELHI: Dengue cases in the city rose to 450 after 14 more people tested positive for the virus.
However, this figure is comparatively less compared to dengue cases reported last October, V K Monga, MCD health committee chairman, said today.
"Last year, it was over 4,000 cases at this time of the year. We have adopted stringent measures to contain dengue this year and the figures is only 450 till now. In the last one day, 14 people tested positive for dengue virus," he said, adding this includes 40 cases reported in Delhi cantonment area.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi reported the first case of dengue on March 3 while the first case of dengue death was reported in July."
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Lethal European fish virus found in Canada
Via ABS-CBN, excerpt :
" A virus as lethal to salmon as bird flu is to poultry has been confirmed for the first time in wild fish in a remote area of Canada's west coast, two scientists said Monday.
Infectious Salmon Anaemia, or ISA, was confirmed in two of 48 young fish taken from an inland lake on the central Pacific coast of British Columbia, marine scientists Rick Routledge and Alexandra Morton told a news conference.
Routledge, a professor at Simon Fraser University, said ISA has an impact on animals similar to influenza, and compared its impact on salmon to the HINI virus that has plagued the global poultry industry.
There is no known threat to humans from the virus, they added.
The finding in Canada of ISA -- a disease researchers believe originated in Europe and which has been commonly spread on commercial Atlantic salmon eggs exported to fish farms elsewhere -- is explosive in the North American aquaculture industry."
" A virus as lethal to salmon as bird flu is to poultry has been confirmed for the first time in wild fish in a remote area of Canada's west coast, two scientists said Monday.
Infectious Salmon Anaemia, or ISA, was confirmed in two of 48 young fish taken from an inland lake on the central Pacific coast of British Columbia, marine scientists Rick Routledge and Alexandra Morton told a news conference.
Routledge, a professor at Simon Fraser University, said ISA has an impact on animals similar to influenza, and compared its impact on salmon to the HINI virus that has plagued the global poultry industry.
There is no known threat to humans from the virus, they added.
The finding in Canada of ISA -- a disease researchers believe originated in Europe and which has been commonly spread on commercial Atlantic salmon eggs exported to fish farms elsewhere -- is explosive in the North American aquaculture industry."
Hong Kong : Cluster of Influenza B cases in psychogeriatric admission ward of Castle Peak Hospital
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" A spokesperson for Castle Peak Hospital (CPH) made the following announcement today (October 17):
Four male patients (aged 66 to 79) in a psychogeriatric admission ward have presented with respiratory symptoms since October 13. Appropriate viral tests were arranged and two of the patients tested positive for Influenza B. The patients concerned have been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital for treatment under isolation and are in a stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
" A spokesperson for Castle Peak Hospital (CPH) made the following announcement today (October 17):
Four male patients (aged 66 to 79) in a psychogeriatric admission ward have presented with respiratory symptoms since October 13. Appropriate viral tests were arranged and two of the patients tested positive for Influenza B. The patients concerned have been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital for treatment under isolation and are in a stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
Monday, October 17, 2011
Indonesia : Bangli, Bali - The mother of two H5N1 victims dies
This must be one of the breaking news I've seen so far, my earlier post indicated that this patient fled the hospital and now Ida at Bird Flu Information Corner has a report indicating that this patient has died :
" Bali : A woman died in her house, in Jehem village, Tembuku sub-district, Bangli, Bali. Officers suspected bird flu (H5N1) infection and collected the sample of the woman.
Victim is the mother whose two children died of H5N1 in Sanglah hospital several days ago (view previous). After that the mother developed fever and then treated in Bangli hospital. When she was in hospital, her blood examination showed negative H5N1. She left the hospital and died two days after.
Victim is treated as she infected by bird flu H5N1, where the officers are wearing bio-security clothes. Mourners are obliged to wear mask."
" Bali : A woman died in her house, in Jehem village, Tembuku sub-district, Bangli, Bali. Officers suspected bird flu (H5N1) infection and collected the sample of the woman.
Victim is the mother whose two children died of H5N1 in Sanglah hospital several days ago (view previous). After that the mother developed fever and then treated in Bangli hospital. When she was in hospital, her blood examination showed negative H5N1. She left the hospital and died two days after.
Victim is treated as she infected by bird flu H5N1, where the officers are wearing bio-security clothes. Mourners are obliged to wear mask."
Zambia: Rabies Outbreak Leaves One Man Dead
Via All Africa :
" RABIES has broken out in Mansa District which has recorded 14 cases and one death in the recent past.
District livestock officer Beatwell Mbewe said yesterday in Mansa that the 14 cases were recorded in Chembe area while one person died in Mwang'uni after being bitten by an infected dog.
Mr Mbewe said despite there being no cure, the disease could be prevented if a person bitten by a rabid dog received treatment before the symptoms manifested.
He said one of the commonest symptoms of rabies in human beings was failure to swallow food or having a condition known as hydrophobia, or fear to drink water.
As a way to prevent the spread of the disease, the department of livestock had embarked on a mass rabies vaccination campaign in which more than 500 dogs in Mansa District were expected to be covered."
" RABIES has broken out in Mansa District which has recorded 14 cases and one death in the recent past.
District livestock officer Beatwell Mbewe said yesterday in Mansa that the 14 cases were recorded in Chembe area while one person died in Mwang'uni after being bitten by an infected dog.
Mr Mbewe said despite there being no cure, the disease could be prevented if a person bitten by a rabid dog received treatment before the symptoms manifested.
He said one of the commonest symptoms of rabies in human beings was failure to swallow food or having a condition known as hydrophobia, or fear to drink water.
As a way to prevent the spread of the disease, the department of livestock had embarked on a mass rabies vaccination campaign in which more than 500 dogs in Mansa District were expected to be covered."
New Zealand : New meningococcal case confirmed in Wellington
Via NZ Herald :
" A woman in her 20s has been confirmed as the latest case of meningococcal disease in the Wellington region.
The woman was admitted to Wellington hospital on Friday night and tests confirmed today that she had meningococcal disease.
She was released today.
Regional Public Health Medical Officer of Health Annette Nesdale said it was not yet known what strain of the disease the woman had, and determining that could take up to a week.
The case brings the total number of meningococcal cases in the capital to 12, including two deaths.
Meanwhile, another two suspected cases of measles have been reported."
" A woman in her 20s has been confirmed as the latest case of meningococcal disease in the Wellington region.
The woman was admitted to Wellington hospital on Friday night and tests confirmed today that she had meningococcal disease.
She was released today.
Regional Public Health Medical Officer of Health Annette Nesdale said it was not yet known what strain of the disease the woman had, and determining that could take up to a week.
The case brings the total number of meningococcal cases in the capital to 12, including two deaths.
Meanwhile, another two suspected cases of measles have been reported."
Nicaragua swine flu outbreak infects 32
Article via Yahoo News, excerpt :
" At least 32 people have been infected in a flare-up of the H1N1 swine flu virus in Nicaragua over the last week, according to the health ministry.
All of those diagnosed with the disease are in stable condition in public hospitals or have been discharged, public health spokesman Carlos Saez told local media on Thursday.
The outbreak has been concentrated in the capital Managua and the adjacent Leon department."
" At least 32 people have been infected in a flare-up of the H1N1 swine flu virus in Nicaragua over the last week, according to the health ministry.
All of those diagnosed with the disease are in stable condition in public hospitals or have been discharged, public health spokesman Carlos Saez told local media on Thursday.
The outbreak has been concentrated in the capital Managua and the adjacent Leon department."
Hand-foot-mouth disease spreads throughout Vietnam
Via Xinhua :
" Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is spreading throughout all 63 Vietnamese cities and provinces, getting more than 71,470 people affected, of whom 130 were dead, as of Monday, local Thanh Nien (Youth) newspaper reported.
While HFMD is expanding across the country, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health (MOH) has not yet declared it as an "epidemic" because it is still under "control", said the report.
Nguyen Van Binh, director of MOH Preventive Medicines Department, said the disease is under control when there are about 2,000 newly affected cases per week, or 8,000-10,000 cases per month.
However, in September alone, the country had more than 26,000 newly affected HFMD patients with 31 dead, and in the first half of October, the figures were reported at 10,000 and 16, respectively, said the report.
So far, southern Ho Chi Minh City and central Quang Ngai province are the most hit localities."
" Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD) is spreading throughout all 63 Vietnamese cities and provinces, getting more than 71,470 people affected, of whom 130 were dead, as of Monday, local Thanh Nien (Youth) newspaper reported.
While HFMD is expanding across the country, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health (MOH) has not yet declared it as an "epidemic" because it is still under "control", said the report.
Nguyen Van Binh, director of MOH Preventive Medicines Department, said the disease is under control when there are about 2,000 newly affected cases per week, or 8,000-10,000 cases per month.
However, in September alone, the country had more than 26,000 newly affected HFMD patients with 31 dead, and in the first half of October, the figures were reported at 10,000 and 16, respectively, said the report.
So far, southern Ho Chi Minh City and central Quang Ngai province are the most hit localities."
Hong Kong : Suspected rubella outbreak involving three Indonesians investigated
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a suspected outbreak of rubella involving three Indonesian domestic helpers who attended a church in Causeway Bay.
The CHP received notification from Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and private doctors about three rubella cases involving Indonesian domestic helpers, aged 27, 32 and 34 respectively. Laboratory tests on the 34-year-old patient's blood samples yielded positive result for rubella virus.
All of them are in stable condition. No hospitalisation is needed. Their home contacts are all asymptomatic.
Upon epidemiological investigation, CHP found that the trio attended the same church before and during the onset of symptoms. An operation was mounted today (October 16), in which a health talk was delivered. Questionnaires were distributed to attendees to assess whether there were other persons with infection.
A spokesman for the CHP said, "Immunisation was offered to those in need. Blood test was offered to those who had symptoms.
"The CHP has identified 11 people with symptoms and conducted blood tests on them."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a suspected outbreak of rubella involving three Indonesian domestic helpers who attended a church in Causeway Bay.
The CHP received notification from Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and private doctors about three rubella cases involving Indonesian domestic helpers, aged 27, 32 and 34 respectively. Laboratory tests on the 34-year-old patient's blood samples yielded positive result for rubella virus.
All of them are in stable condition. No hospitalisation is needed. Their home contacts are all asymptomatic.
Upon epidemiological investigation, CHP found that the trio attended the same church before and during the onset of symptoms. An operation was mounted today (October 16), in which a health talk was delivered. Questionnaires were distributed to attendees to assess whether there were other persons with infection.
A spokesman for the CHP said, "Immunisation was offered to those in need. Blood test was offered to those who had symptoms.
"The CHP has identified 11 people with symptoms and conducted blood tests on them."
Singapore : Why some are more susceptible to severe forms of dengue
Via Channel News Asia :
" Researchers in South East Asia have identified two genetic variants that provide a clue as to why some people are more susceptible to severe forms of dengue than others.
The study, funded by the Wellcome Trust and the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, was done by comparing genomes of about 2,000 children with severe dengue.
Researchers identified changes in the DNA code located within two genes - MICB on chromosome 6 and PLCE1 on chromosome 10.
They said this appears to increase a child's susceptibility to dengue shock syndrome.
The findings were published on Monday in the journal Nature Genetics."
" Researchers in South East Asia have identified two genetic variants that provide a clue as to why some people are more susceptible to severe forms of dengue than others.
The study, funded by the Wellcome Trust and the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, was done by comparing genomes of about 2,000 children with severe dengue.
Researchers identified changes in the DNA code located within two genes - MICB on chromosome 6 and PLCE1 on chromosome 10.
They said this appears to increase a child's susceptibility to dengue shock syndrome.
The findings were published on Monday in the journal Nature Genetics."
India : Deadly dengue - Private hospitals too record alarming rise in cases
Via Times of India :
" AHMEDABAD: The attack of dengue and malaria in the city may be more severe than what is reflected by the figures given out by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). The situation is grave as the civic body has given data of cases in municipal hospitals only. Private hospitals too are recording high incidence of dengue, malaria and falciparum cases in the past fortnight.
Dr Bhavini Shah, director of pathology laboratory with wide network of sample collection from private hospitals in city, said that dengue cases have spiked in October. "In the past 15 days, 60-odd blood samples have been found positive to dengue," Dr Shah said. The number of malaria positive cases was 75 of which 50 per cent were falciparum malaria.
The AMC authorities have recorded over 400 cases of dengue, 300 cases of malaria and 250 cases of falciparum in October."
" AHMEDABAD: The attack of dengue and malaria in the city may be more severe than what is reflected by the figures given out by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). The situation is grave as the civic body has given data of cases in municipal hospitals only. Private hospitals too are recording high incidence of dengue, malaria and falciparum cases in the past fortnight.
Dr Bhavini Shah, director of pathology laboratory with wide network of sample collection from private hospitals in city, said that dengue cases have spiked in October. "In the past 15 days, 60-odd blood samples have been found positive to dengue," Dr Shah said. The number of malaria positive cases was 75 of which 50 per cent were falciparum malaria.
The AMC authorities have recorded over 400 cases of dengue, 300 cases of malaria and 250 cases of falciparum in October."
Indonesia : Two Suspected Cases of Bird Flu in Mataram
Via The Jakarta Globe, excerpt :
" Two people suspected to have contracted the H5N1 strain of avian influenza are being treated at West Nusa Tenggara General Hospital in Mataram.
The two patients were identified as 11-month-old Muhammad Aditya from Praya in West Lombok district and 53-year-old Inaq Sahnun from Pringgarata in Central Lombok district.
Mentari, Sahnun’s daughter-in-law, said that two days earlier Sahnun began running a fever, had a cough and shortness of breath. She was taken to a hospital in Praya where she was placed under observation for two hours before being sent to Mataram for suspected bird flu.
“The doctor at Praya suspected [Sahnun] had contracted bird flu, but said further tests were needed,” Mentari said.
Sahnun’s house is located in an avian influenza-endemic area, where more than 400 chickens were reported to have died suddenly. Preliminary findings suggest the cause of death may have been bird flu.
Sahwan, the father of Aditya, the other patient, said his son had been running a fever for two days. He said he brought Aditya to a public heath center in Pringgarata before taking him to Mataram."
" Two people suspected to have contracted the H5N1 strain of avian influenza are being treated at West Nusa Tenggara General Hospital in Mataram.
The two patients were identified as 11-month-old Muhammad Aditya from Praya in West Lombok district and 53-year-old Inaq Sahnun from Pringgarata in Central Lombok district.
Mentari, Sahnun’s daughter-in-law, said that two days earlier Sahnun began running a fever, had a cough and shortness of breath. She was taken to a hospital in Praya where she was placed under observation for two hours before being sent to Mataram for suspected bird flu.
“The doctor at Praya suspected [Sahnun] had contracted bird flu, but said further tests were needed,” Mentari said.
Sahnun’s house is located in an avian influenza-endemic area, where more than 400 chickens were reported to have died suddenly. Preliminary findings suggest the cause of death may have been bird flu.
Sahwan, the father of Aditya, the other patient, said his son had been running a fever for two days. He said he brought Aditya to a public heath center in Pringgarata before taking him to Mataram."
Bali: Bird Flu Suspect Flees Hospital
From Mike Coston at Avian Flu Diary, whom has this story which sounds alarming nevertheless, please visit his site for all the links :
" We’ve a story today in the Bali Post that, quite frankly, is reminiscent of some of the chaotic bird flu reports we saw coming out of Indonesia during the years 2006 and 2007.
The mother of the two children who died last week (see Bird Flu Claims Two Lives On Bali) has apparently now fallen ill (diagnosis unknown, but bird flu is suspected), and has fled the hospital where she was being examined."
" We’ve a story today in the Bali Post that, quite frankly, is reminiscent of some of the chaotic bird flu reports we saw coming out of Indonesia during the years 2006 and 2007.
The mother of the two children who died last week (see Bird Flu Claims Two Lives On Bali) has apparently now fallen ill (diagnosis unknown, but bird flu is suspected), and has fled the hospital where she was being examined."
Friday, October 14, 2011
Encephalitis outbreak killing children in northern India
News from SOS Children :
" A number of children are now dying every day from viral encephalitis, as an outbreak brings misery to parts of the Uttar Pradesh state in northern India.
The first cases of the illness appeared back in June. Since then, over 400 people have died, most of them children between the ages of six months and 15 years. So far, over 2,000 patients have been treated in the Gorakhpur area of the state.
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk from the illness, which has symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting and confusion. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, paralysis and death. Even when children survive, some can be left permanently weakened. High levels of malnutrition in India also mean that children have low immunity and are more vulnerable to the effects of the disease. Many of the sufferers from 12 districts in the region come from poor families.
Most commonly, the viruses which cause encephalitis are transmitted through insect bites. For example, Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne virus. Outbreaks therefore tend to occur during the rainy season, when standing water provides a breeding ground for the mosquitoes. The Gorakhpur region, which borders Nepal, lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and low-lying areas are prone to flooding, providing the right conditions for mosquitoes."
" A number of children are now dying every day from viral encephalitis, as an outbreak brings misery to parts of the Uttar Pradesh state in northern India.
The first cases of the illness appeared back in June. Since then, over 400 people have died, most of them children between the ages of six months and 15 years. So far, over 2,000 patients have been treated in the Gorakhpur area of the state.
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. Children and the elderly are particularly at risk from the illness, which has symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting and confusion. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, paralysis and death. Even when children survive, some can be left permanently weakened. High levels of malnutrition in India also mean that children have low immunity and are more vulnerable to the effects of the disease. Many of the sufferers from 12 districts in the region come from poor families.
Most commonly, the viruses which cause encephalitis are transmitted through insect bites. For example, Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne virus. Outbreaks therefore tend to occur during the rainy season, when standing water provides a breeding ground for the mosquitoes. The Gorakhpur region, which borders Nepal, lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and low-lying areas are prone to flooding, providing the right conditions for mosquitoes."
Pakistan : Two more die of dengue in Sindh
Via Dawn :
" Health authorities on Thursday confirmed death of two more persons — a minor girl in Karachi and a young woman in Ghotki — taking the toll of dengue in Sindh to 10 for this year.
A four-month-old girl, a resident of Phase-V, DHA, died in the Aga Khan University Hospital on Oct 13, while a 17-year-old-woman, a resident of Qasim Shah Mohalla in Ghotki, died on the third day of her admission to the Ghulam Mohammad Mahar Medical College in Sukkur.
On Thursday, 20 more patients, including 14 in Karachi, either suspected of suffering from dengue or confirmed cases, were admitted to or seen in the OPDs. A total of 880 patients have been brought to government and private hospitals across the province since January, 2011, 643 (73 per cent) of whom have tested positive for dengue."
" Health authorities on Thursday confirmed death of two more persons — a minor girl in Karachi and a young woman in Ghotki — taking the toll of dengue in Sindh to 10 for this year.
A four-month-old girl, a resident of Phase-V, DHA, died in the Aga Khan University Hospital on Oct 13, while a 17-year-old-woman, a resident of Qasim Shah Mohalla in Ghotki, died on the third day of her admission to the Ghulam Mohammad Mahar Medical College in Sukkur.
On Thursday, 20 more patients, including 14 in Karachi, either suspected of suffering from dengue or confirmed cases, were admitted to or seen in the OPDs. A total of 880 patients have been brought to government and private hospitals across the province since January, 2011, 643 (73 per cent) of whom have tested positive for dengue."
New Zealand : 2 more cases of meningococcal disease
Via The Northern Advocate :
" A 16-month-old child is suspected of having the 12th case of the potentially deadly meningococcal disease that has killed three people in Northland since July.
The toddler's admission to Whangarei Hospital on Wednesday night follows that of a 2-year-old Kaipara girl who was admitted to the hospital on October 9 and has been confirmed as having meningococcal disease.
The two cases come as the Northland District Health Board rolls out community clinics as part of its campaign to vaccinate up to 40,000 Northlanders aged between 1 and 20 years against the meningococcal C disease outbreak hitting the region."
" A 16-month-old child is suspected of having the 12th case of the potentially deadly meningococcal disease that has killed three people in Northland since July.
The toddler's admission to Whangarei Hospital on Wednesday night follows that of a 2-year-old Kaipara girl who was admitted to the hospital on October 9 and has been confirmed as having meningococcal disease.
The two cases come as the Northland District Health Board rolls out community clinics as part of its campaign to vaccinate up to 40,000 Northlanders aged between 1 and 20 years against the meningococcal C disease outbreak hitting the region."
US : Sixth case of rabies this year has been confirmed in New Hanover County
Via WECT6 News, excerpt :
" The sixth case of rabies this year has been confirmed in New Hanover County.
According to Mark Boyer with New Hanover County, a raccoon tested positive for the rabies virus after the animal fought with two pet dogs. Animal Control Officers were called to a Johns Creek Road residence earlier this week.
Fortunately, both of the dogs were current on their rabies vaccines, but the homeowner was advised that exposure to the virus is possible."
" The sixth case of rabies this year has been confirmed in New Hanover County.
According to Mark Boyer with New Hanover County, a raccoon tested positive for the rabies virus after the animal fought with two pet dogs. Animal Control Officers were called to a Johns Creek Road residence earlier this week.
Fortunately, both of the dogs were current on their rabies vaccines, but the homeowner was advised that exposure to the virus is possible."
Swine Flu Increases in Bolivia
Via Cadena Gramonte :
" Health authorities in Bolivia confirmed on Thursday that swine flu (AH1N1)is increasing, having a greater impact in the eastern region of Santa Cruz.
Head of the Health Ministry's influenza program, Adolfo Zarate, said that the number of infected people cases increased although he affirmed that the daily report of cases diminishes.
The official specified that the number of infected people increased from 608 to 641 as the number of cases per day dropped from 40 cases to nine or 10.
Zarate considered that the situation proves that the epidemic outbreak is under control warning that the country should not let the guard down. He also highlighted work carried out by the departmental health services(SEDES) and Health Ministry's officials."
" Health authorities in Bolivia confirmed on Thursday that swine flu (AH1N1)is increasing, having a greater impact in the eastern region of Santa Cruz.
Head of the Health Ministry's influenza program, Adolfo Zarate, said that the number of infected people cases increased although he affirmed that the daily report of cases diminishes.
The official specified that the number of infected people increased from 608 to 641 as the number of cases per day dropped from 40 cases to nine or 10.
Zarate considered that the situation proves that the epidemic outbreak is under control warning that the country should not let the guard down. He also highlighted work carried out by the departmental health services(SEDES) and Health Ministry's officials."
India : Dengue - Lady Hardinge doc wife dies
Via Times of India :
" NEW DELHI: A 50-year-old woman diagnosed positive for dengue haemorrhagic fever died on Thursday, taking the number of deaths caused by the viral infection to four this year. The victim Anita Murari , wife of the director of Lady Hardinge Medical College, was admitted in the ICU of B L K Super Specialty Hospital on Tuesday night after her platelet count fell to 20,000 per micro litre and her kidneys stopped functioning.
"Mrs Murari was in a state of shock and had very low blood pressure. Her kidneys had stopped functioning and she was bleeding from the nose. We gave her platelet, plasma and blood and put her on ventilator support, but nothing worked for her," said Dr R K Singhal, senior consultant and head of the internal medicine department at BLK Super Specialty Hospital . "She died around 2.15am on Thursday due to multi-system failure caused by dengue haemorrhagic fever," said Singhal."
" NEW DELHI: A 50-year-old woman diagnosed positive for dengue haemorrhagic fever died on Thursday, taking the number of deaths caused by the viral infection to four this year. The victim Anita Murari , wife of the director of Lady Hardinge Medical College, was admitted in the ICU of B L K Super Specialty Hospital on Tuesday night after her platelet count fell to 20,000 per micro litre and her kidneys stopped functioning.
"Mrs Murari was in a state of shock and had very low blood pressure. Her kidneys had stopped functioning and she was bleeding from the nose. We gave her platelet, plasma and blood and put her on ventilator support, but nothing worked for her," said Dr R K Singhal, senior consultant and head of the internal medicine department at BLK Super Specialty Hospital . "She died around 2.15am on Thursday due to multi-system failure caused by dengue haemorrhagic fever," said Singhal."
Iran Reports First Bird Flu Outbreaks
Via The Poultry Site :
" Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has broken out in village ducks at two locations in the north of the country.
The veterinary authority sent an Immediate Notification dated 13 October to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes two outbreaks of HPAI, both starting on 13 September in free-range village duck flocks in the region of Mazaran in the north of the country, near the Caspian Sea. In total, 2,682 ducks were involved, of which 535 showed symptoms, 345 died and 2,337 birds were destroyed.
The presence of the H5N1 sub-type of the HPAI virus has been confirmed."
" Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has broken out in village ducks at two locations in the north of the country.
The veterinary authority sent an Immediate Notification dated 13 October to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
The report describes two outbreaks of HPAI, both starting on 13 September in free-range village duck flocks in the region of Mazaran in the north of the country, near the Caspian Sea. In total, 2,682 ducks were involved, of which 535 showed symptoms, 345 died and 2,337 birds were destroyed.
The presence of the H5N1 sub-type of the HPAI virus has been confirmed."
Thursday, October 13, 2011
New Zealand : Meningitis cases in Northland continue to climb
Via Radio New Zealand :
" The tally of meningitis cases in the north of New Zealand is on the rise again.
Northland Health says a 16-month-old Whangarei baby was admitted to hospital on Wednesday night with suspected meningococcal disease.
A two-year-old from Kaipara admitted last Sunday is now a confirmed case.
If the Whangarei case is confirmed, the number of people who have caught the disease since July will stand at 12 and the death toll at three.
Northland has an outbreak of Group C meningococcal disease and the District Health Board is offering free vaccination for people aged 12 months to 20 years.
Children vaccinated during the last epidemic are not protected against the current strain of the disease, it warns."
" The tally of meningitis cases in the north of New Zealand is on the rise again.
Northland Health says a 16-month-old Whangarei baby was admitted to hospital on Wednesday night with suspected meningococcal disease.
A two-year-old from Kaipara admitted last Sunday is now a confirmed case.
If the Whangarei case is confirmed, the number of people who have caught the disease since July will stand at 12 and the death toll at three.
Northland has an outbreak of Group C meningococcal disease and the District Health Board is offering free vaccination for people aged 12 months to 20 years.
Children vaccinated during the last epidemic are not protected against the current strain of the disease, it warns."
Genetic Characterization of H1N2 Influenza A Viruses Isolated from sick pigs in Southern China in 2010
A study published in Virology Journal, here's the abstract :
" Abstract (provisional)
In china H3N2 and H1N1 swine influenza virus have been circulating for many years. In January 2010, before swine were infected with foot and mouth disease in Guangdong, some pigs have shown flu-like symptoms: cough, sneeze, runny nose and fever. We collected the nasopharyngeal swab of all sick pigs as much as possible. One subtype H1N2 influenza viruses were isolated from the pig population. The complete genome of one isolate, designated A/swine/Guangdong/1/2010(H1N2), was sequenced and compared with sequences available in GenBank.
The nucleotide sequences of all eight viral RNA segments were determined, and then phylogenetic analysis was performed using the neighbor-joining method. HA, NP, M and NS were shown to be closely to swine origin. PB2 and PA were close to avian origin, but NA and PB1were close to human origin. It is a result of a multiple reassortment event. In conclusion, our finding provides further evidence about the interspecies transmission of avian influenza viruses to pigs and emphasizes the importance of reinforcing swine influenza virus (SIV) surveillance, especially before the emergence of highly pathogenic FMDs in pigs in Guangdong."
" Abstract (provisional)
In china H3N2 and H1N1 swine influenza virus have been circulating for many years. In January 2010, before swine were infected with foot and mouth disease in Guangdong, some pigs have shown flu-like symptoms: cough, sneeze, runny nose and fever. We collected the nasopharyngeal swab of all sick pigs as much as possible. One subtype H1N2 influenza viruses were isolated from the pig population. The complete genome of one isolate, designated A/swine/Guangdong/1/2010(H1N2), was sequenced and compared with sequences available in GenBank.
The nucleotide sequences of all eight viral RNA segments were determined, and then phylogenetic analysis was performed using the neighbor-joining method. HA, NP, M and NS were shown to be closely to swine origin. PB2 and PA were close to avian origin, but NA and PB1were close to human origin. It is a result of a multiple reassortment event. In conclusion, our finding provides further evidence about the interspecies transmission of avian influenza viruses to pigs and emphasizes the importance of reinforcing swine influenza virus (SIV) surveillance, especially before the emergence of highly pathogenic FMDs in pigs in Guangdong."
India : Encephalitis kills 8 more kids in Bihar
Via Zee News :
" Patna: Japanese encephalitis (JE) has claimed the lives of eight more children in the last five days in Bihar's Gaya district, taking the death toll in the epidemic to 62, a health official said Thursday.
The two children died in the last 24 hours and six in the last five days at Anugrah Narayan Medical College and Hospital (ANMCH), about 100 km from here, hospital superintendent Sitaram Prasad said.
The first encephalitis-related death in the district this year was reported Aug 23."
" Patna: Japanese encephalitis (JE) has claimed the lives of eight more children in the last five days in Bihar's Gaya district, taking the death toll in the epidemic to 62, a health official said Thursday.
The two children died in the last 24 hours and six in the last five days at Anugrah Narayan Medical College and Hospital (ANMCH), about 100 km from here, hospital superintendent Sitaram Prasad said.
The first encephalitis-related death in the district this year was reported Aug 23."
Nepal : Diarrhea grips Bajura; no docs
Via Himalayan Times :
" BAJURA: Number of patients suffering from diarrhea has immoderately gone up in Bajura immediately after the end of this year’s Dashain festival.
Diarrhea outbreak has influenced 11 VDCs of the northern belt of the district including Koleti, Kotila, Sappata, Gotri, Jagannath, Wai, Bandhu, Rugin when locals here consumed half-cooked and contaminated flesh in Dashain.
People have been suffering from various diseases due to the consumption of stale food and substandard meat items kept outside freeze for a long time, informed Dharma Raj Upadhyay, a local of Kotila VDC.
Every day over 40 patients complaining of diarrhea, dysentery and indigestion are visiting the Kolti Primary Health Centre during and after the Dashain, informed Assistant Health Worker Tej Singh Saud.
There is no single doctor providing health services to locals though three permanent quotas of doctors are allocated for the district."
" BAJURA: Number of patients suffering from diarrhea has immoderately gone up in Bajura immediately after the end of this year’s Dashain festival.
Diarrhea outbreak has influenced 11 VDCs of the northern belt of the district including Koleti, Kotila, Sappata, Gotri, Jagannath, Wai, Bandhu, Rugin when locals here consumed half-cooked and contaminated flesh in Dashain.
People have been suffering from various diseases due to the consumption of stale food and substandard meat items kept outside freeze for a long time, informed Dharma Raj Upadhyay, a local of Kotila VDC.
Every day over 40 patients complaining of diarrhea, dysentery and indigestion are visiting the Kolti Primary Health Centre during and after the Dashain, informed Assistant Health Worker Tej Singh Saud.
There is no single doctor providing health services to locals though three permanent quotas of doctors are allocated for the district."
India : Mice may reveal what killed 16 in Sindhudurg
Authorities are still trying to figure out what is this mysterious disease which has been killing people in Sindhudurg, India. My original post with regards to this dated 04th October picked up the first report. Let's see what unfolds, mean while here's the excerpt from today's article from Mid Day :
" A team of experts from the National Institute of Virology is now using the animal model testing procedure to figure out 'mystery disease'
Even after five bodies of experts failed to detect the identity of the mystery bug that has caused 16 deaths in Sindhudurg in the past three months, the bewildered state health department has asked the team from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) to expedite the search process, and provide it with some much-needed answers. The body of experts from the nation's apex body in virus research is now injecting serum samples in mice, so as to examine their pathological response to its presence in their bloodstream, and deduce the identity of the pathogen that could have cause the mysterious deaths.
MiD DAY had reported in its October 3 ('Mystery illness kills 16'), about the John Doe bug to which 16 residents of Sindhudurg succumbed in the past three months, all exhibiting the common symptom of respiratory failure.
Scientists on the rolls of NIV have now launched an advanced research module, which involves injecting the serums samples collected from Sindhudurg into mice.
"In the animal model testing procedure, we will observe the injected mice, and see if they start exhibiting the same symptoms that were noted in the deceased. We will then study the pathological changes visible in the mice, and hopefully detect the agent causing them," said Dr Vidya Aranpale, senior director, NIV.
Meanwhile, a team from the Microbiology and Preventive Social medicine department of Pune's BJ medical College has examined samples from seven close associates of the victims, who also reported similar symptoms. Of these, six have tested positive for Leptospirosis."
" A team of experts from the National Institute of Virology is now using the animal model testing procedure to figure out 'mystery disease'
Even after five bodies of experts failed to detect the identity of the mystery bug that has caused 16 deaths in Sindhudurg in the past three months, the bewildered state health department has asked the team from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) to expedite the search process, and provide it with some much-needed answers. The body of experts from the nation's apex body in virus research is now injecting serum samples in mice, so as to examine their pathological response to its presence in their bloodstream, and deduce the identity of the pathogen that could have cause the mysterious deaths.
MiD DAY had reported in its October 3 ('Mystery illness kills 16'), about the John Doe bug to which 16 residents of Sindhudurg succumbed in the past three months, all exhibiting the common symptom of respiratory failure.
Scientists on the rolls of NIV have now launched an advanced research module, which involves injecting the serums samples collected from Sindhudurg into mice.
"In the animal model testing procedure, we will observe the injected mice, and see if they start exhibiting the same symptoms that were noted in the deceased. We will then study the pathological changes visible in the mice, and hopefully detect the agent causing them," said Dr Vidya Aranpale, senior director, NIV.
Meanwhile, a team from the Microbiology and Preventive Social medicine department of Pune's BJ medical College has examined samples from seven close associates of the victims, who also reported similar symptoms. Of these, six have tested positive for Leptospirosis."
Pakistan : Dengue death toll rises to 217
Via The Nation, fatalities rising in Pakistan due to dengue :
" Three more patients lost the battle against dengue today. Two patients died in Lahore while one in Hafizabad. In Lahore 197 people have lost their lives. According to reports the number of dengue patients in other cities is also increasing.
In Mayo Hospital Lahore, Nimra, 20, and Asif, 28, died of dengue virus. In Services Hospital Kaniz, 55, died today.
In Hafizabad, Imtiaz, 25, lost his life. In Faisalabad 46 more patients were admitted to hospitals."
" Three more patients lost the battle against dengue today. Two patients died in Lahore while one in Hafizabad. In Lahore 197 people have lost their lives. According to reports the number of dengue patients in other cities is also increasing.
In Mayo Hospital Lahore, Nimra, 20, and Asif, 28, died of dengue virus. In Services Hospital Kaniz, 55, died today.
In Hafizabad, Imtiaz, 25, lost his life. In Faisalabad 46 more patients were admitted to hospitals."
Hong Kong : Human Metapneumovirus case in forensic admission ward in Castle Peak Hospital
Press release from Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection, excerpt :
" Three male patients (aged 37 to 51) in a forensic admission ward had presented with respiratory symptoms since October 10. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients and one of them tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus. The patients are being treated under isolation and one of them has been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital. All patients are in stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting to the ward has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
" Three male patients (aged 37 to 51) in a forensic admission ward had presented with respiratory symptoms since October 10. Appropriate viral tests were arranged for the patients and one of them tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus. The patients are being treated under isolation and one of them has been transferred to Tuen Mun Hospital. All patients are in stable condition.
Admission to the ward has been suspended and restricted visiting to the ward has been imposed. Infection control measures have already been stepped up according to established guidelines. All other patients in the ward concerned are under close surveillance."
Macao reports first case of human infection with streptococcus suis this year
Via Xinhua :
" Macao's Health Bureau has confirmed one case of human infection with streptococcus suis, and this is the first such case found in Macao this year, the Macao Post Daily reported Thursday.
The report quoted Macao's Health Bureau as saying that the patient, a 60-year-old Hong Kong male, who has retired and has been living in Macao for a long time, developed fever and convulsion on early October and was admitted into a local hospital on October 7. Based on the results of lab test and the patient's symptoms, the case was listed Wednesday as confirmed human infection with streptococcus suis, the Bureau said.
Streptococcus suis is a peanut-shaped, Gram-positive bacterium, and an important pathogen of pigs. It is also a zoonotic disease, capable of transmission to humans from pigs."
" Macao's Health Bureau has confirmed one case of human infection with streptococcus suis, and this is the first such case found in Macao this year, the Macao Post Daily reported Thursday.
The report quoted Macao's Health Bureau as saying that the patient, a 60-year-old Hong Kong male, who has retired and has been living in Macao for a long time, developed fever and convulsion on early October and was admitted into a local hospital on October 7. Based on the results of lab test and the patient's symptoms, the case was listed Wednesday as confirmed human infection with streptococcus suis, the Bureau said.
Streptococcus suis is a peanut-shaped, Gram-positive bacterium, and an important pathogen of pigs. It is also a zoonotic disease, capable of transmission to humans from pigs."
Zambia : Cholera in Mpulungu confirmed
Via Lusaka Times :
" The Ministry of health has confirmed that there is an outbreak of cholera in Mpulungu in Northern Province and as at yesterday a total of 10 cases were recorded.
Ministry of health Spokesperson Dr. Kamoto Mbewe said the first case was recorded on 2nd October .
In a telephone interview with ZANIS in Lusaka yesterday, Dr. Mbewe noted that with the onset of rains it was possible that more cholera out breaks in some parts of the country would be recorded.
He explained that the Ministry had established a Cholera treatment Center in Mpulungu which is providing care to the patients.
He said measures to prevent the water borne disease has been put in place among them health education and chlorine to purify the water."
" The Ministry of health has confirmed that there is an outbreak of cholera in Mpulungu in Northern Province and as at yesterday a total of 10 cases were recorded.
Ministry of health Spokesperson Dr. Kamoto Mbewe said the first case was recorded on 2nd October .
In a telephone interview with ZANIS in Lusaka yesterday, Dr. Mbewe noted that with the onset of rains it was possible that more cholera out breaks in some parts of the country would be recorded.
He explained that the Ministry had established a Cholera treatment Center in Mpulungu which is providing care to the patients.
He said measures to prevent the water borne disease has been put in place among them health education and chlorine to purify the water."
India : Concern over spread of dengue
Via The Hindu :
" People of Bagalkot district, especially those in Mudhol and Jamkhandi taluks, fear that dengue may claim more lives if the authorities fail to initiate measures immediately to prevent its spread.
In the last two months, seven persons have succumbed to dengue and 37 suspected cases have been reported in the district.
According to official sources, steps are being taken to contain the spread of the disease, including fogging in areas from where dengue cases were reported. People have been instructed to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings and prevent water stagnation."
" People of Bagalkot district, especially those in Mudhol and Jamkhandi taluks, fear that dengue may claim more lives if the authorities fail to initiate measures immediately to prevent its spread.
In the last two months, seven persons have succumbed to dengue and 37 suspected cases have been reported in the district.
According to official sources, steps are being taken to contain the spread of the disease, including fogging in areas from where dengue cases were reported. People have been instructed to maintain cleanliness in their surroundings and prevent water stagnation."
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