Via Rediff News :
" Encephalitis, a mosquito-borne disease, has killed 61 children, mostly Mahadalits, while more than 50 are still fighting for their life in Bihar's Gaya district, health officials said on Monday.
All the children died at Anugrah Narain Medical College and Hospital (ANMCH) in Gaya.
The disease has killed a dozen children in the last one week. "With death of two children in the last twenty four hours and ten children in the past five days, the death toll has risen to 6," Ajay Kishor Ravi, who heads the hospital's children's department, said.
However, the state health secretary Sanay Kumar, who visited the hospital on Sunday, said that it was unfortunate that a large number of children died of encephalitis.
According to health officials, the disease started claiming lives of children since August 23. Since then children continue to die of it. Superintendent of ANMCH, Sitaram Prasad, said that government had employed several medical teams to control the disease. He said that more than 270 children with suspected encephalitis were admitted for treatment at hospital."
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Indonesia : Lombok Bird Deaths Spark Flu Spread Fears
Via The Jakarta Globe :
" Following Sunday’s deaths of two children on Bali from bird flu, two Central Lombok subdistricts reported that a significant outbreak had previously been underway among chickens in the village.
Residents in the areas of Pringgarata and Praya Barat reported to officials last week that hundreds of their seemingly healthy chicken were suddenly dying.
In Praya Barat, 45 kilometers east of Mataram, Lombok’s capital, officials said more than 350 chickens had died and the rate of infection was increasing.
“This has been going on for a week. At first Inaq Mahmud [a villager] lost 25 chickens to sudden deaths, then they were followed by the birds belonging to other villagers,” said Sarbini of Semayan, Central Lombok, on Wednesday. “We immediately reported it to the livestock agency so they could come and spray.”
People’s homes are densely packed in Sarbini’s area, which is home to about 350 families, most of whom raise caged chickens for their own consumption and for income. Most families have between 30 and 60 chickens."
" Following Sunday’s deaths of two children on Bali from bird flu, two Central Lombok subdistricts reported that a significant outbreak had previously been underway among chickens in the village.
Residents in the areas of Pringgarata and Praya Barat reported to officials last week that hundreds of their seemingly healthy chicken were suddenly dying.
In Praya Barat, 45 kilometers east of Mataram, Lombok’s capital, officials said more than 350 chickens had died and the rate of infection was increasing.
“This has been going on for a week. At first Inaq Mahmud [a villager] lost 25 chickens to sudden deaths, then they were followed by the birds belonging to other villagers,” said Sarbini of Semayan, Central Lombok, on Wednesday. “We immediately reported it to the livestock agency so they could come and spray.”
People’s homes are densely packed in Sarbini’s area, which is home to about 350 families, most of whom raise caged chickens for their own consumption and for income. Most families have between 30 and 60 chickens."
Hong Kong : A fatal case of Vibrio vulnificus infection investigated
Via Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection :
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a fatal case of Vibrio vulnificus infection involving a 59-year-old man with chronic illnesses.
The patient complained of fever and left calf pain on September 18 and was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on September 20. His condition deteriorated and he succumbed the next day.
The patient's blood specimen taken on September 20 grew Vibrio vulnificus.
CHP's investigation continues."
" The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a fatal case of Vibrio vulnificus infection involving a 59-year-old man with chronic illnesses.
The patient complained of fever and left calf pain on September 18 and was admitted to Yan Chai Hospital on September 20. His condition deteriorated and he succumbed the next day.
The patient's blood specimen taken on September 20 grew Vibrio vulnificus.
CHP's investigation continues."
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
New Zealand : Killer bug confirmed in Rotorua
Via New Zealand Herald :
" Another case of meningococcal disease has been confirmed at Rotorua Hospital.
Medical officer of health for Bay of Plenty and Lakes Dr Phil Shoemack said an adult from the Taupo district was admitted to Rotorua Hospital midway through August.
The adult has since recovered and has been discharged.
The number of confirmed cases of the disease in the Lakes District Health Board area, which includes Rotorua and Taupo, since the beginning of the year stands at four with two more "probable'' cases.
The cases were three adults and three children, one of whom died in Rotorua Hospital from the disease at the start of August.
Dr Shoemack did not want to confirm the gender of the adult or the person's age in the most recent case as he did not want to "inappropriately concern or inappropriately reassure'' people."
" Another case of meningococcal disease has been confirmed at Rotorua Hospital.
Medical officer of health for Bay of Plenty and Lakes Dr Phil Shoemack said an adult from the Taupo district was admitted to Rotorua Hospital midway through August.
The adult has since recovered and has been discharged.
The number of confirmed cases of the disease in the Lakes District Health Board area, which includes Rotorua and Taupo, since the beginning of the year stands at four with two more "probable'' cases.
The cases were three adults and three children, one of whom died in Rotorua Hospital from the disease at the start of August.
Dr Shoemack did not want to confirm the gender of the adult or the person's age in the most recent case as he did not want to "inappropriately concern or inappropriately reassure'' people."
US : Duval County man is 18th West Nile virus case
Via Jacksonville :
" A 52-year-old man is the 18th Duval County resident to contract West Nile virus this year.
Two of those people have died from the mosquito-borne illness, according to a news release Monday from the Duval County Health Department.
About one in 150 people infected with the virus will develop severe illness."
" A 52-year-old man is the 18th Duval County resident to contract West Nile virus this year.
Two of those people have died from the mosquito-borne illness, according to a news release Monday from the Duval County Health Department.
About one in 150 people infected with the virus will develop severe illness."
Philippines : More dengue cases as more rains continue
Press release from the Department of Health in Philippines, excerpt :
" Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo of the Center for Health Development – Metro Manila (CHD-MM) today revealed the continuing rise in dengue cases as more typhoons continue to bring flood waters in various areas of the region.
Latest report from the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) now shows a total number of 19,432 dengue cases from January 1 to September 24, 2011 with 108 deaths.
This figure is 32% higher compared with the same period last year (14,751 cases with 106 deaths). Majority of the cases were male and belonged to the age group from 0-15 years (11,973 with 97 deaths), 16-30 years (6,136 with 6 deaths), 31-45 years (901 with 4 deaths), 46-60 years (298), 61-75 years (105 with 1 death) and more than 75 years old (19 cases).
“We are now on the 38th Dengue Morbidity Week and this is the period when dengue cases usually peaks. But due to the continuing floods brought about by rains and typhoons, we can expect that cases will continue to increase”, Director Janairo stated.
“Dengue is now a year round threat and it is best for everyone to be prepared. Know the signs and symptoms and how to avoid contracting the disease. If you’re suffering from a fever, seek medical treatment immediately. Do not be complacent about dengue. Its complications can be very deadly and may lead to death,” Janairo warned.
The top 10 cities with the most number of cases are Quezon City (6,486), Manila (2,481), Caloocan (2,216), Valenzuela (1,248), Pasig (1,027), Malabon (886), Paranaque (797), Taguig (638), Navotas (542) and Pasay (540)."
" Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo of the Center for Health Development – Metro Manila (CHD-MM) today revealed the continuing rise in dengue cases as more typhoons continue to bring flood waters in various areas of the region.
Latest report from the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) now shows a total number of 19,432 dengue cases from January 1 to September 24, 2011 with 108 deaths.
This figure is 32% higher compared with the same period last year (14,751 cases with 106 deaths). Majority of the cases were male and belonged to the age group from 0-15 years (11,973 with 97 deaths), 16-30 years (6,136 with 6 deaths), 31-45 years (901 with 4 deaths), 46-60 years (298), 61-75 years (105 with 1 death) and more than 75 years old (19 cases).
“We are now on the 38th Dengue Morbidity Week and this is the period when dengue cases usually peaks. But due to the continuing floods brought about by rains and typhoons, we can expect that cases will continue to increase”, Director Janairo stated.
“Dengue is now a year round threat and it is best for everyone to be prepared. Know the signs and symptoms and how to avoid contracting the disease. If you’re suffering from a fever, seek medical treatment immediately. Do not be complacent about dengue. Its complications can be very deadly and may lead to death,” Janairo warned.
The top 10 cities with the most number of cases are Quezon City (6,486), Manila (2,481), Caloocan (2,216), Valenzuela (1,248), Pasig (1,027), Malabon (886), Paranaque (797), Taguig (638), Navotas (542) and Pasay (540)."
Pakistan : 13 more dengue patients admitted in capital hospitals
Via Daily Times :
" ISLAMABAD: Dengue Control and Surveillance Coordinator Dr Najeebullah Durrani said that 29 new suspected dengue patients were admitted to city’s hospitals during the last 24 hours, three from the rural area and 10 from urban area of Islamabad.
He said that the 16 suspected patients brought in the hospitals were from Rawalpindi, Jehlum, Attock, Chitral and KP. He further said that 15 patients admitted to the PIMS, seven to the Polyclinic, one to the CDA hospital, five to the Shifa International and one to the KRL."
" ISLAMABAD: Dengue Control and Surveillance Coordinator Dr Najeebullah Durrani said that 29 new suspected dengue patients were admitted to city’s hospitals during the last 24 hours, three from the rural area and 10 from urban area of Islamabad.
He said that the 16 suspected patients brought in the hospitals were from Rawalpindi, Jehlum, Attock, Chitral and KP. He further said that 15 patients admitted to the PIMS, seven to the Polyclinic, one to the CDA hospital, five to the Shifa International and one to the KRL."
US : First two flu cases of the season confirmed in Michigan, health officials say
Via MLive :
" State health officials say they have confirmed the first two influenza cases in the state for the 2011-2012 season.
Both cases were in Southeast Michigan: Influenza A/H3 was confirmed in a Wayne County adult, and influenza B was confirmed in a Washtenaw County adult. Both strains of the virus are included in the flu vaccine available this year, state health officials said.
The Michigan Department of Community Health released information about the two cases Tuesday as part of its campaign urging flu vaccinations.
Cathy Raevsky, administrative health officer for the Kent County Health Department, said there is plenty of vaccine available."
" State health officials say they have confirmed the first two influenza cases in the state for the 2011-2012 season.
Both cases were in Southeast Michigan: Influenza A/H3 was confirmed in a Wayne County adult, and influenza B was confirmed in a Washtenaw County adult. Both strains of the virus are included in the flu vaccine available this year, state health officials said.
The Michigan Department of Community Health released information about the two cases Tuesday as part of its campaign urging flu vaccinations.
Cathy Raevsky, administrative health officer for the Kent County Health Department, said there is plenty of vaccine available."
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
High caseload of childhood tuberculosis in hospitals on Java Island, Indonesia: a cross sectional study
A studay published at BMC Public Health, excerpt :
" Background
Childhood tuberculosis (TB) has been neglected in the fight against TB. Despite implementation of Directly Observed Treatment Shortcourse (DOTS) program in public and private hospitals in Indonesia since 2000, the burden of childhood TB in hospitals was largely unknown. The goals of this study were to document the caseload and types of childhood TB in the 0-4 and 5-14 year age groups diagnosed in DOTS hospitals on Java Island, Indonesia.
Methods
Cross-sectional study of TB cases recorded in inpatient and outpatient registers of 32 hospitals. Cases were analyzed by hospital characteristics, age groups, and types of TB. The number of cases reported in the outpatient unit was compared with that recorded in the TB register.
Results
Of 5,877 TB cases in the inpatient unit and 15,694 in the outpatient unit, 11% (648) and 27% (4,173) respectively were children. Most of the childhood TB cases were under five years old (56% and 53% in the inpatient and outpatient clinics respectively). The proportion of smear positive TB was twice as high in the inpatient compared to the outpatient units (15.6% vs 8.1%). Extra-pulmonary TB accounted for 15% and 6% of TB cases in inpatient and outpatient clinics respectively. Among children recorded in hospitals only 1.6% were reported to the National TB Program."
" Background
Childhood tuberculosis (TB) has been neglected in the fight against TB. Despite implementation of Directly Observed Treatment Shortcourse (DOTS) program in public and private hospitals in Indonesia since 2000, the burden of childhood TB in hospitals was largely unknown. The goals of this study were to document the caseload and types of childhood TB in the 0-4 and 5-14 year age groups diagnosed in DOTS hospitals on Java Island, Indonesia.
Methods
Cross-sectional study of TB cases recorded in inpatient and outpatient registers of 32 hospitals. Cases were analyzed by hospital characteristics, age groups, and types of TB. The number of cases reported in the outpatient unit was compared with that recorded in the TB register.
Results
Of 5,877 TB cases in the inpatient unit and 15,694 in the outpatient unit, 11% (648) and 27% (4,173) respectively were children. Most of the childhood TB cases were under five years old (56% and 53% in the inpatient and outpatient clinics respectively). The proportion of smear positive TB was twice as high in the inpatient compared to the outpatient units (15.6% vs 8.1%). Extra-pulmonary TB accounted for 15% and 6% of TB cases in inpatient and outpatient clinics respectively. Among children recorded in hospitals only 1.6% were reported to the National TB Program."
S'pore due for "big" dengue outbreak next year: expert
Via Channel News Asia :
" The number of dengue cases reported in Singapore has been steadily declining over the past few weeks. But an expert warns that Singapore may be due for a "big" outbreak next year.
Associate Professor Leo Yee Sin, Head of Infectious Diseases at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, said: "The last big three cycles that we experienced include the 1991 cycle, the 1997, 2004 and 2005 cycle. So when the next one is going to come is subject to a lot of speculation.
"But if you look at the interval of every five to six years [in between each] big cycle, then it should be quite soon. (Either) this year or next year."
263 new cases of dengue were reported for the week of July 24 to 30, the highest number of cases in a week this year."
" The number of dengue cases reported in Singapore has been steadily declining over the past few weeks. But an expert warns that Singapore may be due for a "big" outbreak next year.
Associate Professor Leo Yee Sin, Head of Infectious Diseases at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, said: "The last big three cycles that we experienced include the 1991 cycle, the 1997, 2004 and 2005 cycle. So when the next one is going to come is subject to a lot of speculation.
"But if you look at the interval of every five to six years [in between each] big cycle, then it should be quite soon. (Either) this year or next year."
263 new cases of dengue were reported for the week of July 24 to 30, the highest number of cases in a week this year."
Africa faces worst ever cholera outbreaks: UNICEF
Via Xinhua :
" More than 85,000 cases of Cholera have been reported in West and Central Africa so far this year, making it one of the biggest epidemics in its history, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said here on Tuesday.
UNICEF reported an "unacceptably high" Case Fatality Rate (CFR) in countries concerned, ranging from 2.3 percent to 4.7 percent, with a total number of 2,466 deaths reported in the region.
Three major cross border cholera epidemic outbreaks are observed in West and Central Africa region, including the Lake Chad Basin, the West Congo Basin and Lake Tanganyika, with the most significant increases reported in Chad, Cameroon and in western the Democratic Republic of Congo."
" More than 85,000 cases of Cholera have been reported in West and Central Africa so far this year, making it one of the biggest epidemics in its history, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said here on Tuesday.
UNICEF reported an "unacceptably high" Case Fatality Rate (CFR) in countries concerned, ranging from 2.3 percent to 4.7 percent, with a total number of 2,466 deaths reported in the region.
Three major cross border cholera epidemic outbreaks are observed in West and Central Africa region, including the Lake Chad Basin, the West Congo Basin and Lake Tanganyika, with the most significant increases reported in Chad, Cameroon and in western the Democratic Republic of Congo."
New Zealand : Link between killer bug cases probed
Via New Zealand Herald :
" Health officials are waiting to see if a child diagnosed with meningococcal disease has the same strain that has killed three people in the region since July.
Northland medical officer of health Clair Mills said the 5-year-old boy was admitted to Whangarei Hospital with meningococcal disease on the evening of October 7 and was in a stable condition.
Dr Mills said it was the 10th case in Northland since July.
"We are waiting to hear from the national laboratory whether [the latest case] is a Group C - as in the majority of cases this year in Northland - or another type of meningococcal disease,'' she said.
"It was fortunate the parents knew about meningococcal disease and they sought medical attention immediately. The disease can be rapidly life-threatening. The child was admitted to a ward and is doing well.''
Northland DHB's public health unit had identified close contacts of the child but it appeared there was no obvious link between this and previous meningococcal cases, Dr Mills said."
" Health officials are waiting to see if a child diagnosed with meningococcal disease has the same strain that has killed three people in the region since July.
Northland medical officer of health Clair Mills said the 5-year-old boy was admitted to Whangarei Hospital with meningococcal disease on the evening of October 7 and was in a stable condition.
Dr Mills said it was the 10th case in Northland since July.
"We are waiting to hear from the national laboratory whether [the latest case] is a Group C - as in the majority of cases this year in Northland - or another type of meningococcal disease,'' she said.
"It was fortunate the parents knew about meningococcal disease and they sought medical attention immediately. The disease can be rapidly life-threatening. The child was admitted to a ward and is doing well.''
Northland DHB's public health unit had identified close contacts of the child but it appeared there was no obvious link between this and previous meningococcal cases, Dr Mills said."
Australia : Baby confirmed with meningococcal disease
Via ABC News :
" A six-month-old boy has been confirmed with the deadly meningococcal disease at a hospital in the New South Wales New England region.
Hunter New England Health (HNEH) says it is the 11th confirmed case of meningococcal in the region this year.
HNEH says anyone who suspects a member of their family may have the illness should seek immediate medical attention."
" A six-month-old boy has been confirmed with the deadly meningococcal disease at a hospital in the New South Wales New England region.
Hunter New England Health (HNEH) says it is the 11th confirmed case of meningococcal in the region this year.
HNEH says anyone who suspects a member of their family may have the illness should seek immediate medical attention."
UK doctors advised gonorrhoea has turned drug resistant
Article via BBC News, excerpt :
" UK doctors are being told the antibiotic normally used to treat gonorrhoea is no longer effective because the sexually transmitted disease is now largely resistant to it.
The Health Protection Agency says we may be heading to a point when the disease is incurable unless new treatments can be found.
For now, doctors must stop using the usual treatment cefixime and instead use two more powerful antibiotics.
One is a pill and the other a jab.
The HPA say the change is necessary because of increasing resistance."
" UK doctors are being told the antibiotic normally used to treat gonorrhoea is no longer effective because the sexually transmitted disease is now largely resistant to it.
The Health Protection Agency says we may be heading to a point when the disease is incurable unless new treatments can be found.
For now, doctors must stop using the usual treatment cefixime and instead use two more powerful antibiotics.
One is a pill and the other a jab.
The HPA say the change is necessary because of increasing resistance."
US : 8 jail detainees have MRSA infection
Via Las Cruces Sun News :
" Eight of the about 850 detainees at the Doña Ana County Detention Center have been diagnosed with a highly contagious, drug-resistant bacterial infection.
Mary Lulu Hernandez's son is one of them and fears that the infection - MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) - could spread to officers or the world outside the walls of the jail.
Hernandez's son, a heroin addict, came into the jail already infected, she said.
But Detention Director Chris Barela said the jail is aware of the situation and people shouldn't worry about an outbreak.
"Jails, just as part of their environments, are going to have one or two or three (detainees) who have MRSA-related illness, just because of the conditions that they come from, the socioeconomic background, the stuff they've been involved in," said Barela on Thursday. "Often, those people who come in with MRSA go untreated until they get into the jail, when they get some treatment."
" Eight of the about 850 detainees at the Doña Ana County Detention Center have been diagnosed with a highly contagious, drug-resistant bacterial infection.
Mary Lulu Hernandez's son is one of them and fears that the infection - MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) - could spread to officers or the world outside the walls of the jail.
Hernandez's son, a heroin addict, came into the jail already infected, she said.
But Detention Director Chris Barela said the jail is aware of the situation and people shouldn't worry about an outbreak.
"Jails, just as part of their environments, are going to have one or two or three (detainees) who have MRSA-related illness, just because of the conditions that they come from, the socioeconomic background, the stuff they've been involved in," said Barela on Thursday. "Often, those people who come in with MRSA go untreated until they get into the jail, when they get some treatment."
India : Malaria too on the rise
Via Times of India, excerpt :
" LUDHIANA: A sharp rise in Malaria cases in the last two years has been an issue of concern among residents who fear the poor upkeep of several localities in the city is the reason behind the spreading diseases.
According to a report of health department, 69 cases of malaria were reported in 2008, while in 2009, 75 cases came up. The number saw a sharp rise to 319 cases in 2010 and in 2011, 360 malaria cases have already been reported until now. Of the cases reported this year, 90 are from city.
Residents feel health department has been incompetent in controlling the menace as it failed to carry out regular fogging and spraying."
" LUDHIANA: A sharp rise in Malaria cases in the last two years has been an issue of concern among residents who fear the poor upkeep of several localities in the city is the reason behind the spreading diseases.
According to a report of health department, 69 cases of malaria were reported in 2008, while in 2009, 75 cases came up. The number saw a sharp rise to 319 cases in 2010 and in 2011, 360 malaria cases have already been reported until now. Of the cases reported this year, 90 are from city.
Residents feel health department has been incompetent in controlling the menace as it failed to carry out regular fogging and spraying."
Cholera Deaths Soar In Democratic Republic Of Congo
Via Irish Weather Online :
" There has been an increase in the number of cholera cases and deaths in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo where an outbreak has been ongoing since March, say humanitarian agencies.
At least 6,910 cases and 384 deaths had been reported as of 3 October, according to a report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), compared with a total of 3,896 cases and some 265 deaths by 20 July 2011.
“We cannot know the exact cause of the disease but we know that it has spread from one person to the other due to poor hygiene,” said Laurence Sailly, the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) assistant medical coordinator.
The cholera outbreak was first reported in March in the northeastern province of Orientale before spreading along the River Congo to the capital Kinshasa.
People seeking treatment at various points along the river had exacerbated the spread of the disease as far as Kinshasa, said Sailly."
" There has been an increase in the number of cholera cases and deaths in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo where an outbreak has been ongoing since March, say humanitarian agencies.
At least 6,910 cases and 384 deaths had been reported as of 3 October, according to a report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), compared with a total of 3,896 cases and some 265 deaths by 20 July 2011.
“We cannot know the exact cause of the disease but we know that it has spread from one person to the other due to poor hygiene,” said Laurence Sailly, the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) assistant medical coordinator.
The cholera outbreak was first reported in March in the northeastern province of Orientale before spreading along the River Congo to the capital Kinshasa.
People seeking treatment at various points along the river had exacerbated the spread of the disease as far as Kinshasa, said Sailly."
Pakistan : 5 more die of dengue fever as toll hits 181 in Lahore
Via Gulf Today :
" There is no relief from the dengue fever as five more persons died in Lahore on Monday taking the death toll to 181 in this city alone.
In Punjab, nearly 200 persons have been killed by the dengue fever with many more facing the similar grave danger to their lives.
Official said dengue has not yet shown any decrease in its spread. According to health department, five patients lost their lives in Mayo Hospital. The number of patients affected by dengue in Lahore hovers around 14,000 while in Punjab it has crossed 15,000."
" There is no relief from the dengue fever as five more persons died in Lahore on Monday taking the death toll to 181 in this city alone.
In Punjab, nearly 200 persons have been killed by the dengue fever with many more facing the similar grave danger to their lives.
Official said dengue has not yet shown any decrease in its spread. According to health department, five patients lost their lives in Mayo Hospital. The number of patients affected by dengue in Lahore hovers around 14,000 while in Punjab it has crossed 15,000."
US : 5 child deaths linked to Arizona flu season
Article via Your West Valley News :
" Five pediatric deaths connected with influenza were reported during the 2010-11 season, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
The season concluded with the latest report, which covers Sept. 25 to Oct. 4.
A total 9,837 lab-confirmed cases were reported across Arizona. Many more likely were sick, as some people don’t require lab testing, health officials say.
Most confirmed cases — 30 percent — were in people 19 to 49 years age. The second biggest group was children 5 to 18, with 27 percent of the cases. Arizona’s youngest population — birth through age 4 — saw 23 percent of the confirmed cases.
One percent of cases did not have the patient’s age."
" Five pediatric deaths connected with influenza were reported during the 2010-11 season, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
The season concluded with the latest report, which covers Sept. 25 to Oct. 4.
A total 9,837 lab-confirmed cases were reported across Arizona. Many more likely were sick, as some people don’t require lab testing, health officials say.
Most confirmed cases — 30 percent — were in people 19 to 49 years age. The second biggest group was children 5 to 18, with 27 percent of the cases. Arizona’s youngest population — birth through age 4 — saw 23 percent of the confirmed cases.
One percent of cases did not have the patient’s age."
India : 2,000 cases and still counting
Via Times of India :
" LUDHIANA: Much against the health department's claims that the outbreak of dengue is under control, the count of cases has crossed the 2,000 mark. Instead of taking notice and doing something about it, the health department is sticking to its official count of 448 patients, including 226 from the city.
The rising number of cases has also sparked a debate among doctors and residents on the testing kits being used to identify dengue and their reliability.
Giving a count of the number of patients, medical superintendent of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital said 1,090 patients have been admitted till date. Christian Medical College and Hospital authorities said they have 280 dengue patients."
" LUDHIANA: Much against the health department's claims that the outbreak of dengue is under control, the count of cases has crossed the 2,000 mark. Instead of taking notice and doing something about it, the health department is sticking to its official count of 448 patients, including 226 from the city.
The rising number of cases has also sparked a debate among doctors and residents on the testing kits being used to identify dengue and their reliability.
Giving a count of the number of patients, medical superintendent of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital said 1,090 patients have been admitted till date. Christian Medical College and Hospital authorities said they have 280 dengue patients."
Infectious diseases kill nearly 1,400 on Chinese mainland in Sept.
Via Xinhua :
" A total of 1,390 people were killed by infectious diseases in September, the Ministry of Health said Monday.
The ministry said in an online statement that one person died from bubonic plague, while seven cases of cholera resulted in no deaths.
Plague and cholera are categorized as Class A infectious diseases, the most serious classification under China's Law on the Prevention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases.
A total of 317,564 cases of Class B diseases were reported last month, resulting in 1,353 deaths. No cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), human H5N1 or class B diphtheria were reported.
According to the statement, viral hepatitis, tuberculosis, syphilis, dysentery and gonorrhea were the five most frequently reported Class B diseases in September."
" A total of 1,390 people were killed by infectious diseases in September, the Ministry of Health said Monday.
The ministry said in an online statement that one person died from bubonic plague, while seven cases of cholera resulted in no deaths.
Plague and cholera are categorized as Class A infectious diseases, the most serious classification under China's Law on the Prevention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases.
A total of 317,564 cases of Class B diseases were reported last month, resulting in 1,353 deaths. No cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), human H5N1 or class B diphtheria were reported.
According to the statement, viral hepatitis, tuberculosis, syphilis, dysentery and gonorrhea were the five most frequently reported Class B diseases in September."
Monday, October 10, 2011
Indonesia : Case of Bird Flu Update
I'm not sure if this update is related in any way to the press report which I've posted before this but here's an update from Indonesia's Ministry of Health with regards to fatalities in Jakarta due to bird flu (machine translated) :
" Based on the results of the Laboratory Center for Biomedical Research and Technology Ministry of Health Basic Health Organization, GA (P, 1.1 years) resident of West Jakarta has tested positive for bird flu (H5N1).
Patients experience fever symptoms began on August 8, 2011. Patients treated at referral hospitals of Avian Influenza in Jakarta on August 23, 2011 and get the handling of cases in accordance with standard guidelines, but patients are not helped and died on August 25, 2011.
Based on epidemiological investigation into the patient's house and the surrounding environment by Kemenkes Team and the local health office, obtained a number of possible risk factors. Patients living in the neighborhood residents who raise poultry (chicken), but it's at home catering business there are people who use the materials processed chicken meat."
" Based on the results of the Laboratory Center for Biomedical Research and Technology Ministry of Health Basic Health Organization, GA (P, 1.1 years) resident of West Jakarta has tested positive for bird flu (H5N1).
Patients experience fever symptoms began on August 8, 2011. Patients treated at referral hospitals of Avian Influenza in Jakarta on August 23, 2011 and get the handling of cases in accordance with standard guidelines, but patients are not helped and died on August 25, 2011.
Based on epidemiological investigation into the patient's house and the surrounding environment by Kemenkes Team and the local health office, obtained a number of possible risk factors. Patients living in the neighborhood residents who raise poultry (chicken), but it's at home catering business there are people who use the materials processed chicken meat."
Indonesia : Bird Flu Claims Lives of Two Children in Bali
Via The Jakarta Globe :
" Two children have died of bird flu on Indonesia’s resort island of Bali, hospital staff said on Monday.
Wayan Aldiawan, 10, and his 5-year-old sister, Nengah Rika Ani, died on Sunday after being treated for two days, Sanglah hospital official Elzarita Arbain said.
“Throat swabs and blood samples came back positive for H5N1,” he said, referring to the deadliest strain of bird flu.
The chief of the hospital’s bird flu ward, Ken Wirasandi, said the children had contact with dead fowl in their neighbourhood in Bangli district.
Before the latest cases, two people died of bird flu in Bali between 2007-08.
According to the World Health Organization, Indonesia has had 146 human deaths from bird flu, the highest in the world."
" Two children have died of bird flu on Indonesia’s resort island of Bali, hospital staff said on Monday.
Wayan Aldiawan, 10, and his 5-year-old sister, Nengah Rika Ani, died on Sunday after being treated for two days, Sanglah hospital official Elzarita Arbain said.
“Throat swabs and blood samples came back positive for H5N1,” he said, referring to the deadliest strain of bird flu.
The chief of the hospital’s bird flu ward, Ken Wirasandi, said the children had contact with dead fowl in their neighbourhood in Bangli district.
Before the latest cases, two people died of bird flu in Bali between 2007-08.
According to the World Health Organization, Indonesia has had 146 human deaths from bird flu, the highest in the world."
Friday, October 7, 2011
Pakistan : Dengue virus continues taking lives
Via Pakistan Times :
" LAHORE: Four patients have lost their lives in Mayo Hospital after being hit by the dengue virus Thursday, a report said. The total number of casualties from dengue now stands at 155 in Lahore while 172 in Punjab.
According to reports, 400 cases of dengue have been confirmed in the past 24 hours. The total number of patients is now 14,077 in the entire province out of which 12,216 are in Lahore only.
Experts from Indonesia said that it is not possible to control the virus without curbing mosquito breeding."
" LAHORE: Four patients have lost their lives in Mayo Hospital after being hit by the dengue virus Thursday, a report said. The total number of casualties from dengue now stands at 155 in Lahore while 172 in Punjab.
According to reports, 400 cases of dengue have been confirmed in the past 24 hours. The total number of patients is now 14,077 in the entire province out of which 12,216 are in Lahore only.
Experts from Indonesia said that it is not possible to control the virus without curbing mosquito breeding."
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Pakistan : Hepatitis - killer epidemic
Via Dawn :
" More people have died in Pakistan due to hepatitis than from dengue, yet this silent killer which afflicts almost 30 million citizens of this country has not been tackled yet.
In our rural areas the decease spreads through infected water and damages the liver.
In urban areas of Pakistan, such as big cities of Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Peshawar, etc., the major contributing factor for spread of this epidemic is the unethical practices of our dentists, who charge a premium fee, but fail to invest a meager amount on procurement of ultra-violet sterilisation equipment.
Almost 60 per cent of our dentists clean their surgical tools with plain water. Traces of blood left on their surgical tools from an already infected patient can infect all other clients that they attend to. The government fails to regulate medical services and the Pakistan Medical & Dental Association to enforce ethics amongst dentists."
" More people have died in Pakistan due to hepatitis than from dengue, yet this silent killer which afflicts almost 30 million citizens of this country has not been tackled yet.
In our rural areas the decease spreads through infected water and damages the liver.
In urban areas of Pakistan, such as big cities of Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Peshawar, etc., the major contributing factor for spread of this epidemic is the unethical practices of our dentists, who charge a premium fee, but fail to invest a meager amount on procurement of ultra-violet sterilisation equipment.
Almost 60 per cent of our dentists clean their surgical tools with plain water. Traces of blood left on their surgical tools from an already infected patient can infect all other clients that they attend to. The government fails to regulate medical services and the Pakistan Medical & Dental Association to enforce ethics amongst dentists."
New Zealand : Case of meningococcal disease confirmed in Taranaki
Article via Radio NZ :
" One of two cases of suspected meningococcal infection in Taranaki has been confirmed as meningococcal disease.
A child under the age of 10 and a young person were diagnosed early this week as suspected cases.
Taranaki usually gets one or two confirmed cases in a year, but has had three so far this year.
The district health board says one case was confirmed on Tuesday; the other can't be confirmed, it says, but is probably meningococcal disease.
Both patients are doing well, and one has been discharged from hospital."
" One of two cases of suspected meningococcal infection in Taranaki has been confirmed as meningococcal disease.
A child under the age of 10 and a young person were diagnosed early this week as suspected cases.
Taranaki usually gets one or two confirmed cases in a year, but has had three so far this year.
The district health board says one case was confirmed on Tuesday; the other can't be confirmed, it says, but is probably meningococcal disease.
Both patients are doing well, and one has been discharged from hospital."
US : MTS Bus Rider May Have Exposed Others To TB
Article via 10 News :
" County Officials Urge Riders Who Took 860 Route From June 1-Sept. 14 To Get Tested
A Metropolitan Transit System bus rider who was recently diagnosed with tuberculosis may have exposed others to the disease, the county's Health and Human Services Agency reported Monday.
HHSA is working with MTS to notify riders who took the 6:35 a.m. express bus route 860 from Carmel Mountain Ranch toward downtown, or the 4:10 p.m. express route 860 from Pacific Highway and Grape toward North County, during the exposure period between June 1 and Sept. 14."
" County Officials Urge Riders Who Took 860 Route From June 1-Sept. 14 To Get Tested
A Metropolitan Transit System bus rider who was recently diagnosed with tuberculosis may have exposed others to the disease, the county's Health and Human Services Agency reported Monday.
HHSA is working with MTS to notify riders who took the 6:35 a.m. express bus route 860 from Carmel Mountain Ranch toward downtown, or the 4:10 p.m. express route 860 from Pacific Highway and Grape toward North County, during the exposure period between June 1 and Sept. 14."
US : Iowa Woman Miscarries After Listeria Infection From Cantaloupe
Via ABC News, excerpt :
" Iowa health officials said Wednesday a pregnant woman who suffered a miscarriage after contracting listeriosis is the state's first case in the recent listeria outbreak linked to tainted cantaloupes.
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) would not identify the woman, other than to say she is an adult between the age of 18 and 40 living in Northwest Iowa. IDPH Medical Director Dr. Patricia Quinlisk said the woman, who has since recovered, had been infected with a strain of listeria monocytogenes that matched the strain detected in cantaloupes from Jensen Farms in Colorado -- the place at the center of the investigation into the listeriosis outbreak.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified 100 cases associated with the outbreak in 20 states as of Monday morning, prior to Iowa's inclusion on the list. Nationwide, the case is the third known to have involved women who were pregnant when they fell ill. The CDC reported Tuesday that two other women were pregnant at the time they were infected and that their pregnancies were being monitored."
" Iowa health officials said Wednesday a pregnant woman who suffered a miscarriage after contracting listeriosis is the state's first case in the recent listeria outbreak linked to tainted cantaloupes.
The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) would not identify the woman, other than to say she is an adult between the age of 18 and 40 living in Northwest Iowa. IDPH Medical Director Dr. Patricia Quinlisk said the woman, who has since recovered, had been infected with a strain of listeria monocytogenes that matched the strain detected in cantaloupes from Jensen Farms in Colorado -- the place at the center of the investigation into the listeriosis outbreak.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified 100 cases associated with the outbreak in 20 states as of Monday morning, prior to Iowa's inclusion on the list. Nationwide, the case is the third known to have involved women who were pregnant when they fell ill. The CDC reported Tuesday that two other women were pregnant at the time they were infected and that their pregnancies were being monitored."
Pakistan : Dengue claims doctor, 8 others
Via The Nation :
" The menace of dengue put nine more people including plastic surgeon at a private hospital on the dead list on Wednesday, taking the death toll to 186. The ruthless dengue continued to force hundreds of Lahorites to approach public sector and private healthcare centres in the City, confirming 447 new cases on Wednesday.
Dr Rashid Ahmed Qureshi (45), plastic surgeon at private healthcare centres, lost his life at Surgimed Hospital. Muhammad Khalid (20), a resident of Tajpura, Bilal (50) of Green Town, Umar Farooq (36) of Muried Ke, Azam (55) of Raj Garh and Mujahis (45) of Mardan breathed their last at Mayo Hospital. Majeed Bibi (60) of Ghazi Road died at Services Hospital, Usman Akram (32) of Ichhra at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital while Husnain (17) of Cantonment lost his life at Lahore General Hospital."
" The menace of dengue put nine more people including plastic surgeon at a private hospital on the dead list on Wednesday, taking the death toll to 186. The ruthless dengue continued to force hundreds of Lahorites to approach public sector and private healthcare centres in the City, confirming 447 new cases on Wednesday.
Dr Rashid Ahmed Qureshi (45), plastic surgeon at private healthcare centres, lost his life at Surgimed Hospital. Muhammad Khalid (20), a resident of Tajpura, Bilal (50) of Green Town, Umar Farooq (36) of Muried Ke, Azam (55) of Raj Garh and Mujahis (45) of Mardan breathed their last at Mayo Hospital. Majeed Bibi (60) of Ghazi Road died at Services Hospital, Usman Akram (32) of Ichhra at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital while Husnain (17) of Cantonment lost his life at Lahore General Hospital."
Philippines : DOH warns against possible spread of H1N1 in evacuation centers
Via GMA News :
" The Department of Health on Wednesday warned against possible spread on H1N1 (a type of Influenza or flu) in evacuation centers in the province.
At a briefing during the regional development council (RDC) meeting there, DOH Undersecretary Eric Tayag reported that H1N1 is among the diseases they are monitoring from the evacuees who are suffering from upper respiratory diseases.
"Binabantayan namin ang H1N1 pero wala pa namang confirmed case," he said.
Tayag said DOH personnel would conduct hospital visits and will get swabs from those suffering from upper respiratory illness.
He said H1N1 could easily be transmitted in overcrowded evacuation centers through saliva droplets."
" The Department of Health on Wednesday warned against possible spread on H1N1 (a type of Influenza or flu) in evacuation centers in the province.
At a briefing during the regional development council (RDC) meeting there, DOH Undersecretary Eric Tayag reported that H1N1 is among the diseases they are monitoring from the evacuees who are suffering from upper respiratory diseases.
"Binabantayan namin ang H1N1 pero wala pa namang confirmed case," he said.
Tayag said DOH personnel would conduct hospital visits and will get swabs from those suffering from upper respiratory illness.
He said H1N1 could easily be transmitted in overcrowded evacuation centers through saliva droplets."
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