Disposal of unused or expired medication is a problematic issue in many communities. Medications disposed of in the toilet enter the waste-water stream and can contaminate local water supplies. With the help of Susan Waite from the Amherst, DPW, we offer a list of "best practices" for medication disposal. If you have further questions, please call the Amherst DPW (259-3049) or Health Department (259-3077) for further assistance.
Best Practice: hazardous waste incineration
Option 1: Bring medications to an unwanted medicine collection event
The best option for unwanted medicine disposal is incineration. Unfortunately organizing a medicine collection event is expensive and complicated because the police and a pharmacist must be present. A few communities in the region have the funding to support such collections and may be willing to take material from Amherst. Call the Recycling Coordinator at 259-3049 to see if there is a collection opportunity in the near future.
Option 2: Bring medications to your pharmacy or physician
Some pharmacies and medical practice may or may not accept unwanted medicine for disposal, but it is always worth asking.
Option 3: Not best practice, but 10X better than drain or toilet disposal:
Carefully prepare the medicine for disposal in your regular household trash (which typically is sent to a landfill). Here is the recommended process:
1. Keep material in it's original container. Labels may contain safety info and caps are usually childproof, but scratch out identifying information about the patient.
2. Modify the contents to discourage consumption. Add a small amount of water to pills or capsules. To liquid medications, add table salt, flour, kitty litter, charcoal, or powdered spice like turmeric or mustard.
3. Seal & conceal. Close the container and seal with packing or duct tape and put it inside a non-transparent bag or container such as an empty yogurt or margarine container to ensure contents cannot be seen. If you use a recyclable container seal it with packing or duct tape and write “Do not open, Do not recycle” on the container.
4. Discard in your household garbage. Do not place in recycling bin. Do not conceal medicines in food products because they could be inadvertently consumed by wildlife scavengers.
Compiled from information from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, AARP, and the MA Dept of Environmental Protection.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
School Supplies Pose Toxic Threat to Children’s Health
New Guide to Help Parents Make Safer Choices for Back-to-School Shopping
Boston, MA – Massachusetts health advocates applaud the new Back to School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies from the Center for Health, Environment & Justice (CHEJ).
The new guide gives parents specific recommendations for buying safer, PVC-free school supplies in over 20 product categories.
Just in time for back-to-school shopping, parents across the Commonwealth are stocking up on binders and lunchboxes. But while it’s easy to know the healthiest foods to pack in those lunchboxes, many parents are not aware of the toxic plastic used to make them. In fact, the average child’s character-themed backpack is filled with supplies and materials made from one of the most toxic plastics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl).
“Numerous studies have found that young children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of chemicals released by PVC. Last year, the government banned phthalates commonly used in PVC from children’s toys. These known hazardous chemicals were banned from our children’s toys, but can still be found in school supplies marketed directly for young children,” said Elizabeth Saunders of Alliance for a Healthy Tomorrow, a broad coalition in Massachusetts working to pass laws and policies that prevent harm to our health from toxic chemicals. “Parents can easily protect their children by shopping PVC-free. There are many safer PVC-free products available and even being sold alongside the toxic PVC items at your local retailer. Read the labels, and give your child a healthy start to the new school year.”
“Shopping shouldn’t be a game of roulette, but too often it’s impossible to know what chemicals are in products we buy for our children,” said Representative Jay Kaufman of Lexington, a leading proponent of legislation mandating that safer alternatives to toxics be used in manufacturing. “This guide will give parents the power to make smarter decisions.”
Although this toxic plastic is found in many name-brand products, parents can find safer PVC-free products. CHEJ is releasing the expanded 2nd Annual Edition of their popular Back to School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies to help parents make informed shopping choices. Over twenty categories of school supplies, from backpacks to art supplies, are covered in the guide. As a companion piece to the full guide, a pocket guide with top-tips and at-a-glance advice is also available. A few of the top tips for avoiding toxic PVC school supplies are:
1. Avoid backpacks with shiny plastic designs as they often contain PVC and may contain lead.
2. Use cloth lunchboxes or metal lunchboxes. Many lunchboxes are made of PVC, or coated with PVC on the inside.
3. Used cardboard, fabric-covered, or polypropylene binders. Most 3-ring binders are made of PVC.
“This guide gives parents and teachers the guidance they need in a format that is easy to use and understand,” said Ellie Goldberg, Newton, Vice President of Legislation for the Massachusetts Parent Teacher Association (PTA). “But parents want to know: Why are we allowing companies to sell toxic school supplies such as lunch boxes, backpacks and binders at all? We need legislation that puts children’s health and safety first, that requires companies to make safe products and to eliminate hazards from our homes and schools.”
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is unique among plastics because it contains dangerous chemical additives used to soften or stabilize it. These harmful chemicals include phthalates, lead, cadmium, and/or organotins, which can be toxic to a child’s health. Over 90% of all phthalates are used in PVC products such as school supplies. Federal law has banned the use of phthalates in children’s toys, but not children’s school supplies and other PVC products found in schools. Lunchboxes, binders, vinyl backpacks, and even art supplies are frequently made out of PVC.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful health effects of toxic chemicals used in PVC. Recent studies have linked PVC flooring in the home to increased rates of autism and asthma in children. Chemicals that evaporate or leech out of PVC products may contribute to developmental disorders and damage to the liver, central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems.
For a copy of the PVC-Free Back-to-School Guide, visit http://www.chej.org/, or click here.
Boston, MA – Massachusetts health advocates applaud the new Back to School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies from the Center for Health, Environment & Justice (CHEJ).
The new guide gives parents specific recommendations for buying safer, PVC-free school supplies in over 20 product categories.
Just in time for back-to-school shopping, parents across the Commonwealth are stocking up on binders and lunchboxes. But while it’s easy to know the healthiest foods to pack in those lunchboxes, many parents are not aware of the toxic plastic used to make them. In fact, the average child’s character-themed backpack is filled with supplies and materials made from one of the most toxic plastics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl).
“Numerous studies have found that young children are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of chemicals released by PVC. Last year, the government banned phthalates commonly used in PVC from children’s toys. These known hazardous chemicals were banned from our children’s toys, but can still be found in school supplies marketed directly for young children,” said Elizabeth Saunders of Alliance for a Healthy Tomorrow, a broad coalition in Massachusetts working to pass laws and policies that prevent harm to our health from toxic chemicals. “Parents can easily protect their children by shopping PVC-free. There are many safer PVC-free products available and even being sold alongside the toxic PVC items at your local retailer. Read the labels, and give your child a healthy start to the new school year.”
“Shopping shouldn’t be a game of roulette, but too often it’s impossible to know what chemicals are in products we buy for our children,” said Representative Jay Kaufman of Lexington, a leading proponent of legislation mandating that safer alternatives to toxics be used in manufacturing. “This guide will give parents the power to make smarter decisions.”
Although this toxic plastic is found in many name-brand products, parents can find safer PVC-free products. CHEJ is releasing the expanded 2nd Annual Edition of their popular Back to School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies to help parents make informed shopping choices. Over twenty categories of school supplies, from backpacks to art supplies, are covered in the guide. As a companion piece to the full guide, a pocket guide with top-tips and at-a-glance advice is also available. A few of the top tips for avoiding toxic PVC school supplies are:
1. Avoid backpacks with shiny plastic designs as they often contain PVC and may contain lead.
2. Use cloth lunchboxes or metal lunchboxes. Many lunchboxes are made of PVC, or coated with PVC on the inside.
3. Used cardboard, fabric-covered, or polypropylene binders. Most 3-ring binders are made of PVC.
“This guide gives parents and teachers the guidance they need in a format that is easy to use and understand,” said Ellie Goldberg, Newton, Vice President of Legislation for the Massachusetts Parent Teacher Association (PTA). “But parents want to know: Why are we allowing companies to sell toxic school supplies such as lunch boxes, backpacks and binders at all? We need legislation that puts children’s health and safety first, that requires companies to make safe products and to eliminate hazards from our homes and schools.”
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is unique among plastics because it contains dangerous chemical additives used to soften or stabilize it. These harmful chemicals include phthalates, lead, cadmium, and/or organotins, which can be toxic to a child’s health. Over 90% of all phthalates are used in PVC products such as school supplies. Federal law has banned the use of phthalates in children’s toys, but not children’s school supplies and other PVC products found in schools. Lunchboxes, binders, vinyl backpacks, and even art supplies are frequently made out of PVC.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful health effects of toxic chemicals used in PVC. Recent studies have linked PVC flooring in the home to increased rates of autism and asthma in children. Chemicals that evaporate or leech out of PVC products may contribute to developmental disorders and damage to the liver, central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems.
For a copy of the PVC-Free Back-to-School Guide, visit http://www.chej.org/, or click here.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Public Health Emergency in Northwestern Montana
This article was recently submitted to the Amherst Health Department as a public service, and we are reproducing it here for our readers' edification and education.
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The small mountain town of Libby, Montana was the world’s main supplier of vermiculite for about 70 years. Vermiculite is an ore that is mined for use in products like insulation, potting soil and packing material. The town of Libby was an ideal place for mining as it is home to the largest natural deposit of vermiculite in the world. Little did the residents of Libby know that the hazy smoke they had become so accustomed to seeing all over town was contaminated with toxic tremolite asbestos.
Exposure to tremolite asbestos has been identified as the main cause of a rare and deadly form of cancer known as malignant mesothelioma. This type of cancer is particularly difficult to treat because it has a latency period of about 20 to 50 years. By the time noticeable symptoms begin showing and a mesothelioma diagnosis is made, it is typically in advanced stages and treatment options are limited.
The mine was officially closed in 1990, but an increasing rate of asbestos-related illnesses in the town prompted an investigation by the EPA that began in 1999. However, it wasn’t until this year that an official public health emergency was declared in Libby and the neighboring town of Troy. Before she took office, new EPA administrator Lisa Jackson promised she would look into the situation in Libby if she was appointed.
“This is a tragic public health situation that has not received the recognition it deserves by the federal government for far too long. We’re making a long-delayed commitment to the people of Libby and Troy. Based on a rigorous re-evaluation of the situation on the ground, we will continue to move aggressively on the cleanup efforts and protect the health of the people,” said Jackson.
The government will spend more than $130 million on asbestos cleanup efforts and improve the health care system for those with asbestos-related illnesses. Approximately $125 million will come from the EPA over the next five years to clean up both Libby and Troy, a nearby town of about 1,000 people. An additional $6 million will be spent by the Health and Human Services Department (HSS) on medical assistance.
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The small mountain town of Libby, Montana was the world’s main supplier of vermiculite for about 70 years. Vermiculite is an ore that is mined for use in products like insulation, potting soil and packing material. The town of Libby was an ideal place for mining as it is home to the largest natural deposit of vermiculite in the world. Little did the residents of Libby know that the hazy smoke they had become so accustomed to seeing all over town was contaminated with toxic tremolite asbestos.
Exposure to tremolite asbestos has been identified as the main cause of a rare and deadly form of cancer known as malignant mesothelioma. This type of cancer is particularly difficult to treat because it has a latency period of about 20 to 50 years. By the time noticeable symptoms begin showing and a mesothelioma diagnosis is made, it is typically in advanced stages and treatment options are limited.
The mine was officially closed in 1990, but an increasing rate of asbestos-related illnesses in the town prompted an investigation by the EPA that began in 1999. However, it wasn’t until this year that an official public health emergency was declared in Libby and the neighboring town of Troy. Before she took office, new EPA administrator Lisa Jackson promised she would look into the situation in Libby if she was appointed.
“This is a tragic public health situation that has not received the recognition it deserves by the federal government for far too long. We’re making a long-delayed commitment to the people of Libby and Troy. Based on a rigorous re-evaluation of the situation on the ground, we will continue to move aggressively on the cleanup efforts and protect the health of the people,” said Jackson.
The government will spend more than $130 million on asbestos cleanup efforts and improve the health care system for those with asbestos-related illnesses. Approximately $125 million will come from the EPA over the next five years to clean up both Libby and Troy, a nearby town of about 1,000 people. An additional $6 million will be spent by the Health and Human Services Department (HSS) on medical assistance.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Salmonella and Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis, or salmonella, is one of the most common foodborne diseases. Overall, salmonella infections are decreasing in the United States, but some types are still increasing.
Salmonella may occur in small, contained outbreaks in the general population or in large outbreaks in hospitals, restaurants, or institutions housing children or the elderly. While the disease is found worldwide, health experts most often report cases in North America and Europe. Every year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) receives reports of 40,000 cases of salmonellosis in the United States.
Children are the most likely to get salmonellosis. The elderly, infants, and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness. People with AIDS are particularly vulnerable to salmonellosis, often suffering from recurring episodes.
Cause
Many types of Salmonella bacteria cause salmonellosis in animals and people. While the occurrence of different types of Salmonella varies from country to country, S. typhimurium and S. enteritidis are the two most commonly found in the United States.
An antibiotic-resistant strain of S. typhimurium, called Definitive Type 104 (DT104), was first found in the United Kingdom and then in the United States. It is the second most common strain (after S. enteritidis) of Salmonella found in humans. This strain poses a major threat because it is resistant to several antibiotics normally used to treat people with salmonella disease.
Transmission
Salmonella bacteria can be found in food products such as raw poultry, eggs, and beef, and sometimes on unwashed fruit. Food prepared on surfaces that previously were in contact with raw meat or meat products can, in turn, become contaminated with the bacteria. This is called cross-contamination.
In recent years, Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of several cases of salmonella from eating raw alfalfa sprouts grown in contaminated soil. You also can get salmonella after handling pets, particularly reptiles like snakes, turtles, and lizards.
Salmonella can become a chronic infection even if you do not have symptoms. In addition, though you may have no symptoms, you can spread the disease by not washing your hands before preparing food for others. In fact, if you know you have salmonella, health care experts recommend you do not prepare food or pour water for others until laboratory tests show you no longer carry Salmonella bacteria.
Symptoms
The following symptoms usually begin from 12 hours to 3 days after you are infected.
Diagnosis
Your health care provider can use laboratory tests to identify Salmonella in your stool if you are infected.
Treatment
If you are like most people with salmonella, the disease will clear up within 5 to 7 days and you won’t need to be treated. If you have severe diarrhea, however, you may need intravenous fluids. If the disease spreads from your intestines into your bloodstream, your health care provider can treat it with antibiotics such as ampicillin.
Reiter’s Syndrome
While most people recover successfully from salmonella, a few may develop a chronic condition called Reiter’s syndrome. This syndrome can last for months or years and can lead to arthritis. Its symptoms are painful joints, irritated eyes, and painful urination. Unless treated properly, Salmonella bacteria can escape from the intestine and spread by blood to other organs, sometimes leading to death.
Typhoid Fever
S. typhi bacteria can cause typhoid fever, a more serious disease. This disease, which can be fatal if untreated, is not common in the United States. Typhoid fever frequently occurs in developing countries, when people become infected from contaminated water. It’s also a risk in areas where flooding or earthquakes cause sewer systems to overflow.
Appropriate antibiotics usually are effective for treating typhoid fever, although the number of cases of antibiotic-resistant S. typhi are increasing in some parts of the world.
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This article is in the public domain and was reproduced from the website of the National Institutes of Health. The original article can be found by clicking here.
Salmonella may occur in small, contained outbreaks in the general population or in large outbreaks in hospitals, restaurants, or institutions housing children or the elderly. While the disease is found worldwide, health experts most often report cases in North America and Europe. Every year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) receives reports of 40,000 cases of salmonellosis in the United States.
Children are the most likely to get salmonellosis. The elderly, infants, and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness. People with AIDS are particularly vulnerable to salmonellosis, often suffering from recurring episodes.
Cause
Many types of Salmonella bacteria cause salmonellosis in animals and people. While the occurrence of different types of Salmonella varies from country to country, S. typhimurium and S. enteritidis are the two most commonly found in the United States.
An antibiotic-resistant strain of S. typhimurium, called Definitive Type 104 (DT104), was first found in the United Kingdom and then in the United States. It is the second most common strain (after S. enteritidis) of Salmonella found in humans. This strain poses a major threat because it is resistant to several antibiotics normally used to treat people with salmonella disease.
Transmission
Salmonella bacteria can be found in food products such as raw poultry, eggs, and beef, and sometimes on unwashed fruit. Food prepared on surfaces that previously were in contact with raw meat or meat products can, in turn, become contaminated with the bacteria. This is called cross-contamination.
In recent years, Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention has received reports of several cases of salmonella from eating raw alfalfa sprouts grown in contaminated soil. You also can get salmonella after handling pets, particularly reptiles like snakes, turtles, and lizards.
Salmonella can become a chronic infection even if you do not have symptoms. In addition, though you may have no symptoms, you can spread the disease by not washing your hands before preparing food for others. In fact, if you know you have salmonella, health care experts recommend you do not prepare food or pour water for others until laboratory tests show you no longer carry Salmonella bacteria.
Symptoms
The following symptoms usually begin from 12 hours to 3 days after you are infected.
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Headache
Diagnosis
Your health care provider can use laboratory tests to identify Salmonella in your stool if you are infected.
Treatment
If you are like most people with salmonella, the disease will clear up within 5 to 7 days and you won’t need to be treated. If you have severe diarrhea, however, you may need intravenous fluids. If the disease spreads from your intestines into your bloodstream, your health care provider can treat it with antibiotics such as ampicillin.
Prevention
- Don’t drink milk that is unpasteurized.
- Don’t eat foods containing raw eggs, such as homemade caesar salad dressing, cookie dough, and hollandaise sauce, or drink homemade eggnog made with raw eggs.
- Handle raw eggs carefully.
- Keep eggs refrigerated.
- Throw away cracked or dirty eggs.
- Cook eggs thoroughly.
- Cook poultry products to an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit for breast meat and 180 degrees Fahrenheit for thigh meat.
- Wash thoroughly with soap and hot water all food preparation surfaces and utensils that have come in contact with raw poultry or raw eggs.
- Wash hands immediately after handling raw poultry or raw eggs.
- Wash hands immediately after handling reptiles or having contact with pet feces.
Reiter’s Syndrome
While most people recover successfully from salmonella, a few may develop a chronic condition called Reiter’s syndrome. This syndrome can last for months or years and can lead to arthritis. Its symptoms are painful joints, irritated eyes, and painful urination. Unless treated properly, Salmonella bacteria can escape from the intestine and spread by blood to other organs, sometimes leading to death.
Typhoid Fever
S. typhi bacteria can cause typhoid fever, a more serious disease. This disease, which can be fatal if untreated, is not common in the United States. Typhoid fever frequently occurs in developing countries, when people become infected from contaminated water. It’s also a risk in areas where flooding or earthquakes cause sewer systems to overflow.
Appropriate antibiotics usually are effective for treating typhoid fever, although the number of cases of antibiotic-resistant S. typhi are increasing in some parts of the world.
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This article is in the public domain and was reproduced from the website of the National Institutes of Health. The original article can be found by clicking here.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
NIAID Set to Launch Clinical Trials to Test 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Candidates
Scientists in a network of medical research institutions across the United States are set to begin a series of clinical trials to gather critical data about influenza vaccines, including two candidate H1N1 flu vaccines. The research will be under the direction of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health.
"With the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, we have undertaken a collaborative and efficient process of vaccine development that is proceeding in stepwise fashion," says NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D.
After the isolation and characterization of the virus, the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention generated and distributed a 2009 H1N1 seed virus to vaccine manufacturers for the development of vaccine pilot lots for testing in clinical trials.
"Now, NIAID will use our longstanding vaccine clinical trials infrastructure — the Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Units — to help quickly evaluate these pilot lots to determine whether the vaccines are safe and to assess their ability to induce protective immune responses," says Dr. Fauci. "These data will be factored into the decision about how and if to implement a 2009 H1N1 flu immunization program this fall."
Initial studies will look at whether one or two 15 microgram doses of H1N1 vaccine are needed to induce a potentially protective immune response in healthy adult volunteers (aged 18 to 64 years old) and elderly people (aged 65 and older). Researchers also will assess whether one or two 30 microgram doses are needed. The doses will be given 21 days apart, testing two manufacturers’ vaccines (Sanofi Pasteur and CSL Biotherapies). If early information from those trials indicates that these vaccines are safe, similar trials in healthy children (aged 6 months to 17 years old) will begin.
A concurrent set of trials will look at the safety and immune response in healthy adult and elderly volunteers who are given the seasonal flu vaccine along with a 15 microgram dose of 2009 H1N1 vaccine. The H1N1 vaccine would be given to different sets of volunteers either before, after, or at the same time as the seasonal flu vaccine. If early information from those studies indicates that these vaccines are safe, similar trials in healthy children (aged 6 months to 17 years old) will start.
A panel of outside experts will conduct a close review of the safety data from these trials to spot any safety concerns in real time. Information from these studies in healthy people will help public health officials develop recommendations for immunization schedules, including the optimal dosage and number of doses for multiple age and groups, including adults, the elderly, and children. Data may also be used to support decisions about the best recommendations for people in high risk groups, including pregnant women and people whose immune systems are weakened or otherwise compromised.
The trials are being conducted in a compressed timeframe in a race against the possible autumn resurgence of 2009 H1N1 flu infections that may occur at the same time as seasonal influenza virus strains begin to circulate widely in the Northern Hemisphere.
Close collaboration among NIAID, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (a component of the Department of Health and Human Services) was key to launching the trials quickly while ensuring high standards. Following initial discussions between the agencies on trial design, NIAID prepared the protocols and submitted them to the FDA for review. FDA rapidly completed the necessary reviews and approved the trial protocols.
Since 1962, NIAID’s Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Units (VTEUs) have been intensively involved in the successful development and clinical testing of vaccines and treatments against many pathogens that threaten the health of people in the United States and around the world. Among the vaccines tested have been those that prevent seasonal influenza, H5N1 avian influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.
The VTEU network consists of eight university research hospitals and medical organizations across the United States that provide a ready resource for conducting clinical trials that evaluate vaccines and treatments for a wide array of infectious diseases.
An important strength of the VTEUs is their ability to rapidly enroll large numbers of volunteers into trials and to immunize the volunteers in a safe, effective and efficient manner. This rapid-response capability is especially important for testing vaccines designed to counteract emerging public health concerns. Results are expected to be available weeks after the trials begin.
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For more information on H1N1 situation, please visit www.Flu.gov
"With the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, we have undertaken a collaborative and efficient process of vaccine development that is proceeding in stepwise fashion," says NIAID Director Anthony S. Fauci, M.D.
After the isolation and characterization of the virus, the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention generated and distributed a 2009 H1N1 seed virus to vaccine manufacturers for the development of vaccine pilot lots for testing in clinical trials.
"Now, NIAID will use our longstanding vaccine clinical trials infrastructure — the Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Units — to help quickly evaluate these pilot lots to determine whether the vaccines are safe and to assess their ability to induce protective immune responses," says Dr. Fauci. "These data will be factored into the decision about how and if to implement a 2009 H1N1 flu immunization program this fall."
Initial studies will look at whether one or two 15 microgram doses of H1N1 vaccine are needed to induce a potentially protective immune response in healthy adult volunteers (aged 18 to 64 years old) and elderly people (aged 65 and older). Researchers also will assess whether one or two 30 microgram doses are needed. The doses will be given 21 days apart, testing two manufacturers’ vaccines (Sanofi Pasteur and CSL Biotherapies). If early information from those trials indicates that these vaccines are safe, similar trials in healthy children (aged 6 months to 17 years old) will begin.
A concurrent set of trials will look at the safety and immune response in healthy adult and elderly volunteers who are given the seasonal flu vaccine along with a 15 microgram dose of 2009 H1N1 vaccine. The H1N1 vaccine would be given to different sets of volunteers either before, after, or at the same time as the seasonal flu vaccine. If early information from those studies indicates that these vaccines are safe, similar trials in healthy children (aged 6 months to 17 years old) will start.
A panel of outside experts will conduct a close review of the safety data from these trials to spot any safety concerns in real time. Information from these studies in healthy people will help public health officials develop recommendations for immunization schedules, including the optimal dosage and number of doses for multiple age and groups, including adults, the elderly, and children. Data may also be used to support decisions about the best recommendations for people in high risk groups, including pregnant women and people whose immune systems are weakened or otherwise compromised.
The trials are being conducted in a compressed timeframe in a race against the possible autumn resurgence of 2009 H1N1 flu infections that may occur at the same time as seasonal influenza virus strains begin to circulate widely in the Northern Hemisphere.
Close collaboration among NIAID, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (a component of the Department of Health and Human Services) was key to launching the trials quickly while ensuring high standards. Following initial discussions between the agencies on trial design, NIAID prepared the protocols and submitted them to the FDA for review. FDA rapidly completed the necessary reviews and approved the trial protocols.
Since 1962, NIAID’s Vaccine and Treatment Evaluation Units (VTEUs) have been intensively involved in the successful development and clinical testing of vaccines and treatments against many pathogens that threaten the health of people in the United States and around the world. Among the vaccines tested have been those that prevent seasonal influenza, H5N1 avian influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia.
The VTEU network consists of eight university research hospitals and medical organizations across the United States that provide a ready resource for conducting clinical trials that evaluate vaccines and treatments for a wide array of infectious diseases.
An important strength of the VTEUs is their ability to rapidly enroll large numbers of volunteers into trials and to immunize the volunteers in a safe, effective and efficient manner. This rapid-response capability is especially important for testing vaccines designed to counteract emerging public health concerns. Results are expected to be available weeks after the trials begin.
------
For more information on H1N1 situation, please visit www.Flu.gov
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
FDA Approves Vaccine for 2009-2010 Seasonal Influenza
For immediate release: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced that it has approved a vaccine for 2009-2010 seasonal influenza in the United States.
The seasonal influenza vaccine will not protect against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus that resulted in the declaration of a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on June 11, 2009. The FDA continues to work with manufacturers, international partners and other government agencies to facilitate the availability of a safe and effective vaccine against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.
Although this year’s seasonal vaccine is directed against other strains of influenza expected to be circulating and will not provide protection against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, it is still important for those Americans for whom it is recommended to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine. No vaccine is 100 percent effective against preventing disease, but vaccination is the best protection against influenza and can prevent many illnesses and deaths.
“The approval of this year’s seasonal influenza vaccine is an example of the FDA’s important responsibility to assure timely availability of vaccine to help protect the health of the American public,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., commissioner of food and drugs. “A new seasonal influenza vaccine each year is a critical tool in protecting public health.”
The six vaccine brand names and manufacturers are: Afluria, CSL Limited; Fluarix, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals; FluLaval, ID Biomedical Corporation; Fluvirin, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Limited; Fluzone, Sanofi Pasteur Inc.; and FluMist, MedImmune Vaccines Inc.
Each year, experts from the FDA, WHO, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other institutions study virus samples and patterns collected from around the world in an effort to identify strains that may cause the most illness in the upcoming season.
Based on those forecasts and on the recommendations of the FDA’s Vaccine and Related Products Advisory Committee, the FDA determines the three strains that manufacturers should include in their vaccines for the U.S. population. The closer the match between the circulating strains and the strains in the vaccine, the better the protection against the disease.
According to the CDC, between 5 percent and 20 percent of the U.S. population develops influenza each year. More than 200,000 are hospitalized from its complications and about 36,000 people die. Older people, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for influenza-related complications. Vaccination of these groups is critical.
Additionally, influenza immunization of health care personnel is important in protecting them and others from influenza.
For more information:
FDA Web Page on Influenza Vaccine Safety & Availabilityhttp://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/SafetyAvailability/VaccineSafety/ucm110288.htm
FDA List of Strains Included in the 2009-2010 Influenza Vaccine http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Post-MarketActivities/LotReleases/ucm162050.htm
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web Page on Seasonal Influenza Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web Page with Key Fact About Seasonal Flu Vaccine http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
The seasonal influenza vaccine will not protect against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus that resulted in the declaration of a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on June 11, 2009. The FDA continues to work with manufacturers, international partners and other government agencies to facilitate the availability of a safe and effective vaccine against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus.
Although this year’s seasonal vaccine is directed against other strains of influenza expected to be circulating and will not provide protection against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, it is still important for those Americans for whom it is recommended to receive the seasonal influenza vaccine. No vaccine is 100 percent effective against preventing disease, but vaccination is the best protection against influenza and can prevent many illnesses and deaths.
“The approval of this year’s seasonal influenza vaccine is an example of the FDA’s important responsibility to assure timely availability of vaccine to help protect the health of the American public,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., commissioner of food and drugs. “A new seasonal influenza vaccine each year is a critical tool in protecting public health.”
The six vaccine brand names and manufacturers are: Afluria, CSL Limited; Fluarix, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals; FluLaval, ID Biomedical Corporation; Fluvirin, Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Limited; Fluzone, Sanofi Pasteur Inc.; and FluMist, MedImmune Vaccines Inc.
Each year, experts from the FDA, WHO, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other institutions study virus samples and patterns collected from around the world in an effort to identify strains that may cause the most illness in the upcoming season.
Based on those forecasts and on the recommendations of the FDA’s Vaccine and Related Products Advisory Committee, the FDA determines the three strains that manufacturers should include in their vaccines for the U.S. population. The closer the match between the circulating strains and the strains in the vaccine, the better the protection against the disease.
The vaccine for the 2009-2010 seasonal influenza contains:
- an A/Brisbane/59/2007 (H1N1)-like virus
- an A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2)-like virus
- a B/Brisbane/60/2008-like virus
According to the CDC, between 5 percent and 20 percent of the U.S. population develops influenza each year. More than 200,000 are hospitalized from its complications and about 36,000 people die. Older people, young children, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk for influenza-related complications. Vaccination of these groups is critical.
Additionally, influenza immunization of health care personnel is important in protecting them and others from influenza.
For more information:
FDA Web Page on Influenza Vaccine Safety & Availabilityhttp://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/SafetyAvailability/VaccineSafety/ucm110288.htm
FDA List of Strains Included in the 2009-2010 Influenza Vaccine http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/Post-MarketActivities/LotReleases/ucm162050.htm
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web Page on Seasonal Influenza Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web Page with Key Fact About Seasonal Flu Vaccine http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm
Friday, July 17, 2009
National Survey Finds Six in Ten Americans Believe Serious Outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) Likely in Fall/Winter
Some Parents Predict Substantial Financial Impacts
For immediate release: July 16, 2009
Boston, MA--As part of a series about Americans' response to the H1N1 flu outbreak, the Harvard Opinion Research Program at the Harvard School of Public Health is releasing a national poll that focuses on Americans' views and concerns about the potential for a more severe outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) in the fall or winter. The polling was done June 22-28, 2009.
Click here for the complete survey.
Click here for the charts.
Likelihood of Serious Outbreak
Approximately six in ten Americans (59%) believe it is very or somewhat likely that there will be widespread cases of Influenza A (H1N1) with people getting very sick this coming fall or winter. Parents are more likely than people without children to believe this will occur, with roughly two thirds of parents (65%) saying it is very or somewhat likely compared to 56% of people without children.
"These results suggest Americans are likely to support public health officials in prioritizing preparations for the possibility of a serious H1N1 outbreak in the fall or winter," said Robert J. Blendon, Professor of Health Policy and Political Analysis at the Harvard School of Public Health.
Public Concern About Risk of Getting Ill Personally
Despite a majority believing that a serious outbreak is likely, more than half of Americans (61%) are not concerned about their personal risk-that is, that they or their family members will get sick from influenza A (H1N1) in the next year. This level is unchanged since the previous poll conducted May 5-6, 2009. The current survey further suggests that the World Health Organization (WHO)'s decision to raise the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6 did not dramatically impact Americans' level of concern about their personal risk. Only 22% of Americans knew that the WHO had raised the level, and only 8% of Americans said it made them more concerned that they or their family would get Influenza A (H1N1) in the next 12 months.
Problems for Parents
One approach that has been used in the recent outbreak as a means to slow the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) is the closing of schools. In this survey, substantial numbers of parents who have children in school or daycare report that two-week closings in the fall would present serious financial problems for them. About half (51%) of these parents report that if schools/daycares closed for two weeks, they or someone else in their household would likely have to miss work in order to care for the children. Forty-three percent of these parents report that they or someone in their household would likely lose pay or income and have money problems; 26% of these parents report that they or someone in their household would likely lose their job or business as a result of having to stay home in order to care for the children.
The situation is likely to be worse for minority parents. More African American and Hispanic parents of children in school/daycare indicate that they are likely to lose pay or income and have money problems (56% and 64% respectively), as compared to whites (34%). And, more African American and Hispanic parents of children in school/daycare report that they or someone in their household would likely lose their job or business (40% and 49% respectively), as compared to whites (14%).
Problems Overall
If the outbreak in the fall or winter is serious and leads to large-scale workforce absenteeism, the survey suggests the possibility of substantial difficulties for many people and the economy as a whole. If people had to stay home for 7-10 days because they were sick or because they had to care for a family member who was sick, 44% indicate that they would be likely to lose pay or income and have money problems, and 25% reported that they would be likely to lose their job or business.
"The findings highlight the important role that employers would play during a future outbreak. Flexibility in their employee policies may help minimize some of the problems identified in this survey," said Blendon.
Recent Experience with H1N1
At the time of this survey, 27% of Americans reported that there had been cases of influenza A (H1N1) among people in their community, and 18% reported that schools in their community had closed due to influenza A (H1N1). Since the beginning of the outbreak, roughly two-thirds of people report that they or someone in their household has washed their hands or used sanitizer more frequently (62%).
"Handwashing was a major focus of public health education during the recent outbreak. The results of this survey show that these efforts helped people protect themselves," said Blendon.
This is the third in a series of polls about Americans' response to the H1N1 flu outbreak.
The first survey was released May 1, 2009.
The second survey was released May 8, 2009.
For immediate release: July 16, 2009
Boston, MA--As part of a series about Americans' response to the H1N1 flu outbreak, the Harvard Opinion Research Program at the Harvard School of Public Health is releasing a national poll that focuses on Americans' views and concerns about the potential for a more severe outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) in the fall or winter. The polling was done June 22-28, 2009.
Click here for the complete survey.
Click here for the charts.
Likelihood of Serious Outbreak
Approximately six in ten Americans (59%) believe it is very or somewhat likely that there will be widespread cases of Influenza A (H1N1) with people getting very sick this coming fall or winter. Parents are more likely than people without children to believe this will occur, with roughly two thirds of parents (65%) saying it is very or somewhat likely compared to 56% of people without children.
"These results suggest Americans are likely to support public health officials in prioritizing preparations for the possibility of a serious H1N1 outbreak in the fall or winter," said Robert J. Blendon, Professor of Health Policy and Political Analysis at the Harvard School of Public Health.
Public Concern About Risk of Getting Ill Personally
Despite a majority believing that a serious outbreak is likely, more than half of Americans (61%) are not concerned about their personal risk-that is, that they or their family members will get sick from influenza A (H1N1) in the next year. This level is unchanged since the previous poll conducted May 5-6, 2009. The current survey further suggests that the World Health Organization (WHO)'s decision to raise the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6 did not dramatically impact Americans' level of concern about their personal risk. Only 22% of Americans knew that the WHO had raised the level, and only 8% of Americans said it made them more concerned that they or their family would get Influenza A (H1N1) in the next 12 months.
Problems for Parents
One approach that has been used in the recent outbreak as a means to slow the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) is the closing of schools. In this survey, substantial numbers of parents who have children in school or daycare report that two-week closings in the fall would present serious financial problems for them. About half (51%) of these parents report that if schools/daycares closed for two weeks, they or someone else in their household would likely have to miss work in order to care for the children. Forty-three percent of these parents report that they or someone in their household would likely lose pay or income and have money problems; 26% of these parents report that they or someone in their household would likely lose their job or business as a result of having to stay home in order to care for the children.
The situation is likely to be worse for minority parents. More African American and Hispanic parents of children in school/daycare indicate that they are likely to lose pay or income and have money problems (56% and 64% respectively), as compared to whites (34%). And, more African American and Hispanic parents of children in school/daycare report that they or someone in their household would likely lose their job or business (40% and 49% respectively), as compared to whites (14%).
Problems Overall
If the outbreak in the fall or winter is serious and leads to large-scale workforce absenteeism, the survey suggests the possibility of substantial difficulties for many people and the economy as a whole. If people had to stay home for 7-10 days because they were sick or because they had to care for a family member who was sick, 44% indicate that they would be likely to lose pay or income and have money problems, and 25% reported that they would be likely to lose their job or business.
"The findings highlight the important role that employers would play during a future outbreak. Flexibility in their employee policies may help minimize some of the problems identified in this survey," said Blendon.
Recent Experience with H1N1
At the time of this survey, 27% of Americans reported that there had been cases of influenza A (H1N1) among people in their community, and 18% reported that schools in their community had closed due to influenza A (H1N1). Since the beginning of the outbreak, roughly two-thirds of people report that they or someone in their household has washed their hands or used sanitizer more frequently (62%).
"Handwashing was a major focus of public health education during the recent outbreak. The results of this survey show that these efforts helped people protect themselves," said Blendon.
This is the third in a series of polls about Americans' response to the H1N1 flu outbreak.
The first survey was released May 1, 2009.
The second survey was released May 8, 2009.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Update on Recalled Nestlé Toll House Cookie Dough
On June 19, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7 (a bacterium that causes foodborne illness).
FDA had found E. coli in a sample of the cookie dough, following reports that people had become sick after eating the product. Although DNA tests showed that the type of E. coli found in the sample was not the same type of E. coli found in the people who became ill, FDA’s and CDC’s advice remains the same: consumers should not eat the recalled Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough.
However, after a plant shutdown, an investigation, and a cleanup, Nestlé is now using main ingredients from new suppliers and is making the cookie dough again. These newly made products are not part of the ongoing recall and are not associated with any illness outbreaks or known contamination.
Consumers can identify the newly made products by looking for labels with shields that say “new batch” on them; these batches are not part of the current recall.
FDA and CDC also continue to warn consumers against eating any raw dough for cookies or other baked goods, at any time, because of potential contamination with Salmonella or E. coli bacteria.
As of July 10, 2009, CDC reported that 76 people from 31 states have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7. As of that date, 35 people had been hospitalized, including 11 with a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome. No one has died.
Which Products Can Consumers Eat?
Consumers can eat baked cookies made from Nestlé Toll House cookie dough that has not been recalled. Products that carry new labeling with a shield that says "new batch" are not part of the current recall.
Which Products Should Not Be Eaten?
FDA and CDC continue to warn consumers not to eat any varieties of the recalled Nestlé Toll House cookie dough. This includes Nestlé Toll House cookie dough that does not say "new batch" on the labeling. These products should be thrown away. Contact your health care professional immediately if you or your family have recently eaten recalled cookie dough and have had stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea, with or without bloody stools.
Follow Safe Food-Handling Practices
FDA had found E. coli in a sample of the cookie dough, following reports that people had become sick after eating the product. Although DNA tests showed that the type of E. coli found in the sample was not the same type of E. coli found in the people who became ill, FDA’s and CDC’s advice remains the same: consumers should not eat the recalled Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough.
However, after a plant shutdown, an investigation, and a cleanup, Nestlé is now using main ingredients from new suppliers and is making the cookie dough again. These newly made products are not part of the ongoing recall and are not associated with any illness outbreaks or known contamination.
Consumers can identify the newly made products by looking for labels with shields that say “new batch” on them; these batches are not part of the current recall.
FDA and CDC also continue to warn consumers against eating any raw dough for cookies or other baked goods, at any time, because of potential contamination with Salmonella or E. coli bacteria.
As of July 10, 2009, CDC reported that 76 people from 31 states have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7. As of that date, 35 people had been hospitalized, including 11 with a serious complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome. No one has died.
Which Products Can Consumers Eat?
Consumers can eat baked cookies made from Nestlé Toll House cookie dough that has not been recalled. Products that carry new labeling with a shield that says "new batch" are not part of the current recall.
Which Products Should Not Be Eaten?
FDA and CDC continue to warn consumers not to eat any varieties of the recalled Nestlé Toll House cookie dough. This includes Nestlé Toll House cookie dough that does not say "new batch" on the labeling. These products should be thrown away. Contact your health care professional immediately if you or your family have recently eaten recalled cookie dough and have had stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea, with or without bloody stools.
Follow Safe Food-Handling Practices
- Do not eat any raw cookie dough or any raw food product that’s supposed to be cooked or baked.
- Follow package directions for cooking at proper temperatures and for specified times.
- Wash hands, work surfaces, and utensils thoroughly after contact with raw products.
- Keep raw foods separate from other foods while preparing them to prevent any contamination that might be present from spreading.
- Chill products promptly after purchase and after using them, if they require refrigeration.
About E. coli O157:H7
The bacteria cause stomach cramping, vomiting, and diarrhea, often with bloody stools.
E. coli O157:H7 can cause serious illness or death in anyone, of any age, but most healthy adults recover completely within a week.
Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to serious kidney damage and death.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Chang Farm Recalls Soy Bean Sprouts Because of Possible Health Risk
Chang Farm, River Road, Whatley, MA is issuing a voluntary recall of Soy Bean Sprouts produced by Chang Farms, with the specific sell-by date of July 17, 2009 because of the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes (L. Monocytogenes) contamination. Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The affected product is packaged in 10 lb bags (bulk) and 12 oz plastic bags (retail), labeled under the Chang Farm Brand as Soy Sprouts and have a “Sell By” date of July 17, 2009.
The product has been distributed to retail stores and wholesalers throughout MA, CT, NY and NJ.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Sample analysis by US FDA confirmed Listeria Monocytogenes.
All retail stores and wholesalers who have this lot in MA, CT, NY and NJ should remove this product from their shelves. Consumers should discard this product or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers should contact their healthcare provider with any illness concerns. Consumers with questions about the warning may contact Chang Farm at 413-665-3341 or 413-222-5519.
The affected product is packaged in 10 lb bags (bulk) and 12 oz plastic bags (retail), labeled under the Chang Farm Brand as Soy Sprouts and have a “Sell By” date of July 17, 2009.
The product has been distributed to retail stores and wholesalers throughout MA, CT, NY and NJ.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
Sample analysis by US FDA confirmed Listeria Monocytogenes.
All retail stores and wholesalers who have this lot in MA, CT, NY and NJ should remove this product from their shelves. Consumers should discard this product or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers should contact their healthcare provider with any illness concerns. Consumers with questions about the warning may contact Chang Farm at 413-665-3341 or 413-222-5519.
Monday, July 13, 2009
General Mills Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Quantity of ‘Nut Lovers’ flavor of Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters Product
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July 8, 2009 - Minneapolis, MN - General Mills announced today a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of “Nut Lovers” flavor Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters product containing pecans.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the “Nut Lovers” Granola Nut Clusters product, and no other types, varieties or flavors of Nature Valley products are being recalled.
This action is being taken as a precaution because pecans received from a supplier and used in the product may be tainted with salmonella. No other types of nuts are impacted, and no other flavors or varieties of Granola Nut Clusters products are involved.
This product is a new bite-size cluster sold in a stand-up bag in grocery stores, convenience stores and vending outlets nationally.
Nature Valley granola bar products are NOT involved, and no other General Mills products are impacted.
Only specific Nut Lovers flavor products with five specific “best if used by dates” are being recalled. The five “best if used by dates” are:
07MAR2010 10MAR2010
08MAR2010 11MAR2010
09MAR2010
Consumers who have products covered by this recall are urged to dispose of the product and to contact General Mills for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact General Mills toll-free at 1-800-231-0308.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Healthy people infected with salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal pain. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with the “Nut Lovers” Granola Nut Clusters product, and no other types, varieties or flavors of Nature Valley products are being recalled.
This action is being taken as a precaution because pecans received from a supplier and used in the product may be tainted with salmonella. No other types of nuts are impacted, and no other flavors or varieties of Granola Nut Clusters products are involved.
This product is a new bite-size cluster sold in a stand-up bag in grocery stores, convenience stores and vending outlets nationally.
Nature Valley granola bar products are NOT involved, and no other General Mills products are impacted.
Only specific Nut Lovers flavor products with five specific “best if used by dates” are being recalled. The five “best if used by dates” are:
07MAR2010 10MAR2010
08MAR2010 11MAR2010
09MAR2010
Consumers who have products covered by this recall are urged to dispose of the product and to contact General Mills for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact General Mills toll-free at 1-800-231-0308.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Healthy people infected with salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and/or abdominal pain. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Traditions Meal Solutions Recalls Non-Fat Dry Milk Packets Because of Possible Health Risk
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 7, 2009
Traditions Meal Solutions is recalling approximately 104,500 packets of 25 gram non fat dry milk packets because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The non-fat dry milk packets are components of Traditions Meal Solutions shelf stable meal kits distributed to food distributors and regional nutrition service providers located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. These meal kits were distributed between January 8, 2008 and June 15, 2009. The meal kits are packaged in small white boxes that have no identifying information and contain single serve food items. These shelf stable meal kits were not available for individual consumer purchase. The only component of the shelf stable meal kit that represents a potential hazard is the non-fat dried milk. The non-fat dried milk packets are white and are approximately 5” by 4” and labeled with lot numbers from 19047 to 21203.
The packet of non-fat dried milk should not be used or consumed. Consumers who have any of the non-fat dry milk packets are urged to destroy them. Traditions Meal Solutions has not received any notification of consumer illness associated with the consumption of its product.
The recall was initiated when Traditions Meal Solutions was notified by its Non fat dry milk supplier, Blendco, Inc., that the non fat dried milk packets included in the shelf stable meal kits contained product supplied by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, which has issued a voluntary recall because the nonfat dried milk has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Traditions Meal Solutions has isolated all recalled non-fat dried milk packets located in its facility and ceased the distribution of any shelf stable meal kits containing the recalled non fat dried milk.
Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact Traditions Meal Solutions Quality Assurance Manager, Marcia Guymon at 601-420-8806 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm CST. Media inquiries should be directed to Elmer McInnis, Executive Vice President of Procurement at 601-664-3138.
Traditions Meal Solutions is recalling approximately 104,500 packets of 25 gram non fat dry milk packets because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The non-fat dry milk packets are components of Traditions Meal Solutions shelf stable meal kits distributed to food distributors and regional nutrition service providers located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. These meal kits were distributed between January 8, 2008 and June 15, 2009. The meal kits are packaged in small white boxes that have no identifying information and contain single serve food items. These shelf stable meal kits were not available for individual consumer purchase. The only component of the shelf stable meal kit that represents a potential hazard is the non-fat dried milk. The non-fat dried milk packets are white and are approximately 5” by 4” and labeled with lot numbers from 19047 to 21203.
The packet of non-fat dried milk should not be used or consumed. Consumers who have any of the non-fat dry milk packets are urged to destroy them. Traditions Meal Solutions has not received any notification of consumer illness associated with the consumption of its product.
The recall was initiated when Traditions Meal Solutions was notified by its Non fat dry milk supplier, Blendco, Inc., that the non fat dried milk packets included in the shelf stable meal kits contained product supplied by Plainview Milk Products Cooperative, which has issued a voluntary recall because the nonfat dried milk has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Traditions Meal Solutions has isolated all recalled non-fat dried milk packets located in its facility and ceased the distribution of any shelf stable meal kits containing the recalled non fat dried milk.
Consumers with questions regarding the recall should contact Traditions Meal Solutions Quality Assurance Manager, Marcia Guymon at 601-420-8806 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm CST. Media inquiries should be directed to Elmer McInnis, Executive Vice President of Procurement at 601-664-3138.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Nestle Voluntarily Recalls all Varieties of Prepackaged, Refrigerated Toll House Cookie Dough
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are warning consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to the risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7 (a bacterium that causes food borne illness).
The FDA advises that if consumers have any prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products in their home that they throw them away. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.
Retailers, restaurateurs, and personnel at other food-service operations should not sell or serve any Nestle Toll House prepackaged, refrigerated cookie dough products subject to the recall.
Nestle USA, which manufactures and markets the Toll House cookie dough, is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation by the FDA and CDC. The warning is based on an ongoing epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. Since March 2009 there have been 66 reports of illness across 28 states. Twenty-five persons were hospitalized; 7 with A form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). No one has died.
E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults can recover completely within a week. Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing HUS, which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
Individuals who have recently eaten prepackaged, refrigerated Toll House cookie dough and have experienced any of these symptoms should contact their doctor or health care provider immediately. Any such illnesses should be reported to state or local health authorities.
FDA reminds consumers they should not eat raw food products that are intended for cooking or baking before consumption. Consumers should use safe food-handling practices when preparing such products, including following package directions for cooking at proper temperatures; washing hands, surfaces, and utensils after contact with these types of products; avoiding cross contamination; and refrigerating products properly. For more information on safe food handling practices, go to http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm109899.htm.
Consumers who have additional questions about these products should contact Nestle consumer services at 1-800-559-5025 and/or visit their website at www.verybestbaking.com .
For a complete listing of the recalled products go to: http://www.nestleusa.com/PubNews/PressReleaseLibraryDetails.aspx?id=133CC131-A79F-4E84-9C43-C9F99FE5BC99.
The FDA advises that if consumers have any prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products in their home that they throw them away. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.
Retailers, restaurateurs, and personnel at other food-service operations should not sell or serve any Nestle Toll House prepackaged, refrigerated cookie dough products subject to the recall.
Nestle USA, which manufactures and markets the Toll House cookie dough, is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation by the FDA and CDC. The warning is based on an ongoing epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. Since March 2009 there have been 66 reports of illness across 28 states. Twenty-five persons were hospitalized; 7 with A form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). No one has died.
E. coli O157:H7 causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools. Most healthy adults can recover completely within a week. Young children and the elderly are at highest risk for developing HUS, which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.
Individuals who have recently eaten prepackaged, refrigerated Toll House cookie dough and have experienced any of these symptoms should contact their doctor or health care provider immediately. Any such illnesses should be reported to state or local health authorities.
FDA reminds consumers they should not eat raw food products that are intended for cooking or baking before consumption. Consumers should use safe food-handling practices when preparing such products, including following package directions for cooking at proper temperatures; washing hands, surfaces, and utensils after contact with these types of products; avoiding cross contamination; and refrigerating products properly. For more information on safe food handling practices, go to http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/ucm109899.htm.
Consumers who have additional questions about these products should contact Nestle consumer services at 1-800-559-5025 and/or visit their website at www.verybestbaking.com .
For a complete listing of the recalled products go to: http://www.nestleusa.com/PubNews/PressReleaseLibraryDetails.aspx?id=133CC131-A79F-4E84-9C43-C9F99FE5BC99.
North Coast Seafood Recalls Tuna Steaks
Boston, MA, June 30, 2009 – North Coast Seafood has voluntarily removed from sale Fresh Tuna Steaks that were sold at Shaw’s, Star Market and Big Y Stores in New England
The recalled product was sold between June 20th thru June 24th to retail stores throughout New England and was removed from sale on June 24, The product was recalled because of possible elevated levels of histamine that may result in symptoms that generally appear within minutes to an hour after eating the affected fish. The following are the most common symptoms of scombroid poisoning. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: tingling or burning sensation in the mouth, rash on the face and upper body, hives and itching of skin, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. There have been three reported incidents by consumers.
North Coast Seafood feels that while these were isolated incidents, every precautionary measure should be taken when it comes to consumer safety. This recall does not impact any other fish or seafood sold by Northcoast. Customers who purchased this tuna and may have frozen it, are urged to bring the product back to the store for a full refund or replacement. Customers who have questions or concerns about this issue can speak with Northcoast Seafood at 617-345-4410…ext 260
The recalled product was sold between June 20th thru June 24th to retail stores throughout New England and was removed from sale on June 24, The product was recalled because of possible elevated levels of histamine that may result in symptoms that generally appear within minutes to an hour after eating the affected fish. The following are the most common symptoms of scombroid poisoning. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: tingling or burning sensation in the mouth, rash on the face and upper body, hives and itching of skin, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. There have been three reported incidents by consumers.
North Coast Seafood feels that while these were isolated incidents, every precautionary measure should be taken when it comes to consumer safety. This recall does not impact any other fish or seafood sold by Northcoast. Customers who purchased this tuna and may have frozen it, are urged to bring the product back to the store for a full refund or replacement. Customers who have questions or concerns about this issue can speak with Northcoast Seafood at 617-345-4410…ext 260
Stop & Shop Issues A Voluntary Recall of Non-Fat Dry Milk
July 1, 2009, Quincy, MA…Following notification from its manufacturer, The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company has recalled the following Stop & Shop Non Fat Dry Milk products.
Stop and Shop Nonfat Dried Milk, 16 ounce size
UPC - 21120-00056
Code - FEB 0511S
Stop and Shop Nonfat Dried Milk, 32 ounce size
UPC 21120-00052
Code - FEB 1211S
The items were removed from store shelves because they were produced with nonfat dried milk that is part of a national recall by Plainview Milk and may have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella bacteria.
Customers who have purchased the product should discard any unused portions and bring their purchase receipt to any Stop & Shop for a full refund. To date, Stop & Shop has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.
Stop & Shop is committed to the highest standards of food safety. Customers looking for additional information may call Stop & Shop’s corporate brands hotline at 1-877-846-9949, M-F, 9 am-1 pm. Or Stop & Shop’s Customer Service line at 1-800-767-7772,
M-F, 9 am-5 pm.
About Stop & Shop
The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, based in Quincy, Massachusetts, employs more than 59,000 associates and operates stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, New York and New Jersey.
Stop and Shop Nonfat Dried Milk, 16 ounce size
UPC - 21120-00056
Code - FEB 0511S
Stop and Shop Nonfat Dried Milk, 32 ounce size
UPC 21120-00052
Code - FEB 1211S
The items were removed from store shelves because they were produced with nonfat dried milk that is part of a national recall by Plainview Milk and may have the potential to be contaminated with salmonella bacteria.
Customers who have purchased the product should discard any unused portions and bring their purchase receipt to any Stop & Shop for a full refund. To date, Stop & Shop has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product.
Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. Salmonella infections can be life-threatening, especially to those with weak immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy. The most common manifestations of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within eight to 72 hours. Additional symptoms may be chills, headache, nausea and vomiting that can last up to seven days.
Stop & Shop is committed to the highest standards of food safety. Customers looking for additional information may call Stop & Shop’s corporate brands hotline at 1-877-846-9949, M-F, 9 am-1 pm. Or Stop & Shop’s Customer Service line at 1-800-767-7772,
M-F, 9 am-5 pm.
About Stop & Shop
The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, based in Quincy, Massachusetts, employs more than 59,000 associates and operates stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, New York and New Jersey.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Fit Physical Activity into Your Life, Your Way
The more you do, the more benefits you gain.
Adults gain substantial health benefits from two hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic physical activity, and children benefit from an hour or more of physical activity a day, according to the new Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. On October 7, 2008, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, a comprehensive set of recommendations for people of all ages and physical conditions.
The comprehensive, science-based guidelines were developed to inform policymakers and health providers about the amounts, types, and intensity of physical activity needed to help Americans aged 6 and older improve their health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases.
The Guidelines set achievable goals for everyone and can be customized according to a person’s interests, lifestyle, and goals. Regular physical activity over months and years produces long-term health benefits and reduces the risk of many diseases. The more physically active you are, the more health benefits you gain.
A main message of the Guidelines is that for inactive persons some activity is better than none. Persons who have been inactive for some time are encouraged to start at a comfortable level and add a little more activity as they go along. For most health outcomes, additional benefits occur as the amount of physical activity increases through higher intensity, greater frequency, and /or more time per session. Both aerobic (endurance) and muscle-strengthening (resistance) activities are beneficial and are included as part of the Guidelines.
Resources also are available for the public including the booklet, Be Active Your Way, A Guide to Adults.
For More Information:
Easy-to-use information about the Guidelines is available online at http://www.healthfinder.gov/. To access the guidelines and to find links to other resources for professionals, visit http://www.health.gov/paguidelines and http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity.
-------------------
This article was reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Adults gain substantial health benefits from two hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic physical activity, and children benefit from an hour or more of physical activity a day, according to the new Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. On October 7, 2008, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, a comprehensive set of recommendations for people of all ages and physical conditions.
The comprehensive, science-based guidelines were developed to inform policymakers and health providers about the amounts, types, and intensity of physical activity needed to help Americans aged 6 and older improve their health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases.
The Guidelines set achievable goals for everyone and can be customized according to a person’s interests, lifestyle, and goals. Regular physical activity over months and years produces long-term health benefits and reduces the risk of many diseases. The more physically active you are, the more health benefits you gain.
A main message of the Guidelines is that for inactive persons some activity is better than none. Persons who have been inactive for some time are encouraged to start at a comfortable level and add a little more activity as they go along. For most health outcomes, additional benefits occur as the amount of physical activity increases through higher intensity, greater frequency, and /or more time per session. Both aerobic (endurance) and muscle-strengthening (resistance) activities are beneficial and are included as part of the Guidelines.
Resources also are available for the public including the booklet, Be Active Your Way, A Guide to Adults.
For More Information:
Easy-to-use information about the Guidelines is available online at http://www.healthfinder.gov/. To access the guidelines and to find links to other resources for professionals, visit http://www.health.gov/paguidelines and http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity.
-------------------
This article was reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
State's Second H1N1 Flu-Related Death Announced
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health yesterday announced the state's second death linked to H1N1 flu (swine flu). A statement released by BPHC said that the 84 year-old Boston was hospitalized on June 12 and died six days later, on June 18. Today, his test results came back positive for novel H1N1 flu. The patient had several serious underlying health conditions which placed him at high risk of complications from the flu.
"While we have seen recent evidence of flu-like illness decreasing in Massachusetts, this tragic case underscores that we are still seeing person-to-person spread of the virus," said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. "That is why it is so important for everyone to practice the prevention measures that we know can reduce the spread of illness."
Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu. These groups include children under the age of 2, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. These people should call their doctor immediately to discuss appropriate treatment if they develop a fever with a cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
Massachusetts residents are reminded to take the following steps to reduce their risk of illness:
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
If you are sick stay home from work, and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after symptoms resolve -- whichever is longer.
Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu by visiting www.mass.gov/dph.
-----
This article was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health's blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
"While we have seen recent evidence of flu-like illness decreasing in Massachusetts, this tragic case underscores that we are still seeing person-to-person spread of the virus," said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. "That is why it is so important for everyone to practice the prevention measures that we know can reduce the spread of illness."
Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu. These groups include children under the age of 2, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. These people should call their doctor immediately to discuss appropriate treatment if they develop a fever with a cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
Massachusetts residents are reminded to take the following steps to reduce their risk of illness:
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
If you are sick stay home from work, and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after symptoms resolve -- whichever is longer.
Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu by visiting www.mass.gov/dph.
-----
This article was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health's blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sharps Containers Now Available at The Amherst Health Department
Approved "Sharps" containers are available for purchase at the Amherst Health Department during regular office hours, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm.
1-quart containers are $2.00, and 5-quart containers are $10.00. The price includes disposal, and each container can be returned to the Health Department or Transfer Station with no additional fee.
As of July, 2010, a new law will be enacted making it illegal to dispose of needles and other sharps in household trash. Now is a good time to create a new habit and do the right thing!
1-quart containers are $2.00, and 5-quart containers are $10.00. The price includes disposal, and each container can be returned to the Health Department or Transfer Station with no additional fee.
As of July, 2010, a new law will be enacted making it illegal to dispose of needles and other sharps in household trash. Now is a good time to create a new habit and do the right thing!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Advocating for Active Living in Your Community, Part 2
By Maya Mohan, Physical Activity Coordinator for the MA Department of Public Health
A couple of weeks ago I talked about how our environment can either help or hinder our ability to be active or eat healthfully. Today, I want to talk about two things you can do right now to assess your own environment: check out how “walkable” and “bikeable” they are.
“Walkability” and “bikeability” are phrases that refer to how safe, appealing and connected a neighborhood is for walking and biking, respectively. Safety and appeal are pretty self-explanatory, but let me explain what I mean by “connected.” It’s important that the roads and paths we walk and bike on are connected to public transportation, grocery stores, schools, parks, and places we do our everyday business, like the dry cleaners, post office, and banks, just to name a few.
Think about this… If you could walk or bike to get your kids to school (get them on their bikes too!), go to work, and run your errands instead of driving, you’d lower your carbon footprint, save money on gas/parking/tickets/other car related stuff, AND sneak in some good ole’ activity! In other words, a thoughtfully designed walkable and bikeable neighborhood not only impacts our health for the better, but can have positive economic and environmental effects as well.
Of course, there are whole career tracks and professions designed around making communities easier to walk and bike in, but there are a couple of really easy, informal audits that you and your family can do right in your own neighborhood. Today, even.
Check out these walkability and bikeability checklists. They are really easy to fill out - just 5 questions for the walkability one, and 7 for the bikeability list! After you fill out the checklist, you’ll see some steps that you can take right now to improve those conditions, and some steps that will take a little bit longer than “right now.” Get a bunch of friends together to do a few of these audits in different areas of your neighborhood. Then, try some of the short-, and long-term action steps listed at the end of the audits. And voila! You, my friend, are now becoming a walking and bicycling advocate in your own community!
WalkBoston and MassBike are two organizations that work hard to make sure our communities are walkable and bikeable. But they can’t do it alone. If each one of us took a small piece of our neighborhood, did one of these quick checklists and tried just one of the action steps… well, image the changes we could collectively make!
So, I urge you to pick a route that you walk or bike on a regular basis, take a friend along with you, and try one (or both!) of the checklists. Oh, and don’t forget to let me know how it goes!
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This post was originally published on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of MA DPH.
A couple of weeks ago I talked about how our environment can either help or hinder our ability to be active or eat healthfully. Today, I want to talk about two things you can do right now to assess your own environment: check out how “walkable” and “bikeable” they are.
“Walkability” and “bikeability” are phrases that refer to how safe, appealing and connected a neighborhood is for walking and biking, respectively. Safety and appeal are pretty self-explanatory, but let me explain what I mean by “connected.” It’s important that the roads and paths we walk and bike on are connected to public transportation, grocery stores, schools, parks, and places we do our everyday business, like the dry cleaners, post office, and banks, just to name a few.
Think about this… If you could walk or bike to get your kids to school (get them on their bikes too!), go to work, and run your errands instead of driving, you’d lower your carbon footprint, save money on gas/parking/tickets/other car related stuff, AND sneak in some good ole’ activity! In other words, a thoughtfully designed walkable and bikeable neighborhood not only impacts our health for the better, but can have positive economic and environmental effects as well.
Of course, there are whole career tracks and professions designed around making communities easier to walk and bike in, but there are a couple of really easy, informal audits that you and your family can do right in your own neighborhood. Today, even.
Check out these walkability and bikeability checklists. They are really easy to fill out - just 5 questions for the walkability one, and 7 for the bikeability list! After you fill out the checklist, you’ll see some steps that you can take right now to improve those conditions, and some steps that will take a little bit longer than “right now.” Get a bunch of friends together to do a few of these audits in different areas of your neighborhood. Then, try some of the short-, and long-term action steps listed at the end of the audits. And voila! You, my friend, are now becoming a walking and bicycling advocate in your own community!
WalkBoston and MassBike are two organizations that work hard to make sure our communities are walkable and bikeable. But they can’t do it alone. If each one of us took a small piece of our neighborhood, did one of these quick checklists and tried just one of the action steps… well, image the changes we could collectively make!
So, I urge you to pick a route that you walk or bike on a regular basis, take a friend along with you, and try one (or both!) of the checklists. Oh, and don’t forget to let me know how it goes!
--------
This post was originally published on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of MA DPH.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Public Health Advisory: FDA & CDC Warn Consumers Not to Eat Nestle Toll House Prepackaged, Refrigerated Cookie Dough
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) are warning consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to the risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7 (a type of bacteria that causes food borne illness). Nestlé USA’s Baking Division initiated a voluntary recall of Nestlé® TOLL HOUSE® refrigerated cookie dough products on June 19, 2009 http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm167954.htm.
The FDA advises that consumers should throw away any prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products in their home. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.
The warning is based on an ongoing epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. Since March 2009 there have been 65 reports of illness across 28 states. Four cases have been reported in Massachusetts.
These four cases range in age from 15 to 25 years, and reported becoming ill between 4/26/09 and 5/29/09. The cases occurred in Middlesex, Essex and Worcester counties. Two of the four cases reported eating the recalled product during their incubation period. Interviews with the remaining two cases are ongoing. All four cases were hospitalized but have fully recovered.E. coli O157:H7 is a type of bacteria that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.
Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult their health care provider, local board of health, the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800 or the DPH Food Protection Program at 617-983-6712.
For a complete list of recalled Nestle products, click HERE.
Click here for the DPH Factsheet on E. coli O157:H7.
-----------
This post was originally published on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
The FDA advises that consumers should throw away any prepackaged, refrigerated Nestle Toll House cookie dough products in their home. Cooking the dough is not recommended because consumers might get the bacteria on their hands and on other cooking surfaces.
The warning is based on an ongoing epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments. Since March 2009 there have been 65 reports of illness across 28 states. Four cases have been reported in Massachusetts.
These four cases range in age from 15 to 25 years, and reported becoming ill between 4/26/09 and 5/29/09. The cases occurred in Middlesex, Essex and Worcester counties. Two of the four cases reported eating the recalled product during their incubation period. Interviews with the remaining two cases are ongoing. All four cases were hospitalized but have fully recovered.E. coli O157:H7 is a type of bacteria that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, the elderly and persons with weakened immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.
Anyone with signs or symptoms of foodborne illness should consult their health care provider, local board of health, the DPH Epidemiology Program at 617-983-6800 or the DPH Food Protection Program at 617-983-6712.
For a complete list of recalled Nestle products, click HERE.
Click here for the DPH Factsheet on E. coli O157:H7.
-----------
This post was originally published on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
Friday, June 19, 2009
FDA Advises Consumers Not To Use Certain Zicam Cold Remedies
Intranasal Zinc Product Linked to Loss of Sense of Smell
For Immediate Release:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today advised consumers to stop using three products marketed over-the-counter as cold remedies because they are associated with the loss of sense of smell (anosmia). Anosmia may be long-lasting or permanent.
The products are:
“Loss of sense of smell is a serious risk for people who use these products for relief from cold symptoms,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). “We are concerned that consumers may unknowingly use a product that could cause serious harm, and therefore we are advising them not to use these products for any reason.”
People who have experienced a loss of sense of smell or other problems after use of the affected Zicam products should contact their health care professional. The loss of sense of smell can adversely affect a person’s quality of life, and can limit the ability to detect the smell of gas or smoke or other signs of danger in the environment.
The FDA has issued Matrixx Initiatives, maker of these Zicam products, a warning letter telling it that these products cannot be marketed without FDA approval.
“Companies have an obligation to the public to demonstrate to the FDA that their products are safe, particularly when there is evidence they may be causing serious adverse events, and they are marketed for minor, self-limiting conditions like the common cold,” said Deborah M. Autor, director of CDER’s Office of Compliance.
Health care professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events (side effects) that may be related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event
Reporting program online, by regular mail, fax or phone.
Regular Mail: use FDA postage paid form 3500 and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
Fax: 800-FDA-0178
Phone: 800-FDA-1088
For more information: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm166834.htm
For Immediate Release:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today advised consumers to stop using three products marketed over-the-counter as cold remedies because they are associated with the loss of sense of smell (anosmia). Anosmia may be long-lasting or permanent.
The products are:
- Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel
- Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
- Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (a discontinued product)
“Loss of sense of smell is a serious risk for people who use these products for relief from cold symptoms,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). “We are concerned that consumers may unknowingly use a product that could cause serious harm, and therefore we are advising them not to use these products for any reason.”
People who have experienced a loss of sense of smell or other problems after use of the affected Zicam products should contact their health care professional. The loss of sense of smell can adversely affect a person’s quality of life, and can limit the ability to detect the smell of gas or smoke or other signs of danger in the environment.
The FDA has issued Matrixx Initiatives, maker of these Zicam products, a warning letter telling it that these products cannot be marketed without FDA approval.
“Companies have an obligation to the public to demonstrate to the FDA that their products are safe, particularly when there is evidence they may be causing serious adverse events, and they are marketed for minor, self-limiting conditions like the common cold,” said Deborah M. Autor, director of CDER’s Office of Compliance.
Health care professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events (side effects) that may be related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event
Reporting program online, by regular mail, fax or phone.
Regular Mail: use FDA postage paid form 3500 and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
Fax: 800-FDA-0178
Phone: 800-FDA-1088
For more information: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm166834.htm
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
FDA Warns Web Sites against Marketing Fraudulent H1N1 Flu Virus Claims
For Immediate Release: June 15, 2009
Media Inquiries: Christopher Kelly, 301-796-4676, christopher.kelly@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is enforcing the laws that protect consumers from illegal products marketed through the Internet that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.
On May 1, 2009, the FDA warned consumers regarding products related to the 2009 H1N1 flu virus offered on the Internet. The products involved are those that are promoted and marketed to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus but are not approved, cleared, or authorized by the FDA. The agency advised operators of offending Web sites that they must take immediate action to ensure that they are not marketing products intended to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus that have not been cleared, approved, or authorized by the FDA.
Since then, the FDA has issued more than 50 warning letters to offending Web sites and as a result, more than 66 percent of these Web sites have removed the offending claims and/or products.
“We are committed to aggressively pursuing those who attempt to take advantage of a public health emergency by promoting and marketing unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., Commissioner of Food and Drugs. “We have achieved some success and will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect consumers from these fraudulent, potentially dangerous products.”
Examples of unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products targeted by the FDA include:--A shampoo that claimed to protect against the H1N1 flu virus;--A dietary supplement that claimed to protect infants and young children from contracting the H1N1 flu virus;--A “new” supplement that claimed to cure H1N1 flu infection within four to eight hours;--A spray that claimed to leave a layer of ionic silver on one’s hands that killed the virus;--Several tests that have not been approved to detect the H1N1 flu virus; and--An electronic instrument costing thousands of dollars that claimed to utilize “photobiotic energy” and “deeply penetrating mega-frequency life-force energy waves” to strengthen the immune system and prevent symptoms associated with H1N1 viral infection.
The FDA’s warning letters are consistent with an aggressive strategy the agency put into place to protect consumers from individuals or businesses that promote fraudulent claims for products in an attempt to take advantage of the public’s concerns about the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.
Unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products that claim to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu are illegal and a potentially significant threat to the public health.
These warning letters were the result of daily Internet surfs conducted by the FDA’s Office of Enforcement, Office of Criminal Investigations, and staff from the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, and the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. The warning letters issued by e-mail and the FDA requested a response within 48 hours.
In addition, the FDA posted the offending Web sites and products on the agency’s Web site.
“Taking swift action to inform unsuspecting consumers about products that could be dangerous to their health is a major priority for the FDA,” said Hamburg.
The FDA will consider further civil or criminal enforcement action against those Web sites that fail to resolve the violations cited in warning letters. Actions could include seizure, injunction, and criminal prosecution.
For more information:
FDA’s Fraudulent H1N1 Flu Virus Product List
Browse Warning Letters for: Unapproved/Uncleared/Unauthorized Products Related to the H1N1 Flu Virus
Report Suspected Fraudulent Products or Criminal Activity Associated with H1N1 Flu Virus (Swine Flu)
Media Inquiries: Christopher Kelly, 301-796-4676, christopher.kelly@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is enforcing the laws that protect consumers from illegal products marketed through the Internet that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.
On May 1, 2009, the FDA warned consumers regarding products related to the 2009 H1N1 flu virus offered on the Internet. The products involved are those that are promoted and marketed to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus but are not approved, cleared, or authorized by the FDA. The agency advised operators of offending Web sites that they must take immediate action to ensure that they are not marketing products intended to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat, or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu virus that have not been cleared, approved, or authorized by the FDA.
Since then, the FDA has issued more than 50 warning letters to offending Web sites and as a result, more than 66 percent of these Web sites have removed the offending claims and/or products.
“We are committed to aggressively pursuing those who attempt to take advantage of a public health emergency by promoting and marketing unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products,” said Margaret A. Hamburg, M.D., Commissioner of Food and Drugs. “We have achieved some success and will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect consumers from these fraudulent, potentially dangerous products.”
Examples of unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products targeted by the FDA include:--A shampoo that claimed to protect against the H1N1 flu virus;--A dietary supplement that claimed to protect infants and young children from contracting the H1N1 flu virus;--A “new” supplement that claimed to cure H1N1 flu infection within four to eight hours;--A spray that claimed to leave a layer of ionic silver on one’s hands that killed the virus;--Several tests that have not been approved to detect the H1N1 flu virus; and--An electronic instrument costing thousands of dollars that claimed to utilize “photobiotic energy” and “deeply penetrating mega-frequency life-force energy waves” to strengthen the immune system and prevent symptoms associated with H1N1 viral infection.
The FDA’s warning letters are consistent with an aggressive strategy the agency put into place to protect consumers from individuals or businesses that promote fraudulent claims for products in an attempt to take advantage of the public’s concerns about the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.
Unapproved, uncleared, or unauthorized products that claim to diagnose, mitigate, prevent, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 flu are illegal and a potentially significant threat to the public health.
These warning letters were the result of daily Internet surfs conducted by the FDA’s Office of Enforcement, Office of Criminal Investigations, and staff from the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, and the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. The warning letters issued by e-mail and the FDA requested a response within 48 hours.
In addition, the FDA posted the offending Web sites and products on the agency’s Web site.
“Taking swift action to inform unsuspecting consumers about products that could be dangerous to their health is a major priority for the FDA,” said Hamburg.
The FDA will consider further civil or criminal enforcement action against those Web sites that fail to resolve the violations cited in warning letters. Actions could include seizure, injunction, and criminal prosecution.
For more information:
FDA’s Fraudulent H1N1 Flu Virus Product List
Browse Warning Letters for: Unapproved/Uncleared/Unauthorized Products Related to the H1N1 Flu Virus
Report Suspected Fraudulent Products or Criminal Activity Associated with H1N1 Flu Virus (Swine Flu)
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
A CDC Image of the H1N1 Influenza Virus
Here is an image of the H1N1 virus, courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
First Death From H1N1 Flu in Massachusetts Reported
Yesterday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed that Massachusetts has seen its first death related to the H1N1 influenza. The 30-year-old female was hospitalized on June 5th, had confirmation of H1N1 on June 10th, and died on June 14th. Her prior medical history and pre-existing conditions are not immediately available.
Simultaneously, Britain has announced its first H1N1-related death, the first fatality outside the Americas since the outbreak began. The Scottish patient died while hospitalized and no further information is currently available.
At this time, there have been 1,153 confirmed cases of H1N1 in Massachusetts, with 80 residents hospitalized. Until this week's death, all cases of H1N1 in the Commonwealth have been relatively mild.
Here is a reminder from the MA Department of Public Health regarding the H1N1 virus, borrowed from the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations:
Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu. These groups include children under the age of 2, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. These people should call their doctor immediately to discuss appropriate treatment if they develop a fever with a cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
Massachusetts residents are reminded to take the following steps to reduce their risk of illness:
Simultaneously, Britain has announced its first H1N1-related death, the first fatality outside the Americas since the outbreak began. The Scottish patient died while hospitalized and no further information is currently available.
At this time, there have been 1,153 confirmed cases of H1N1 in Massachusetts, with 80 residents hospitalized. Until this week's death, all cases of H1N1 in the Commonwealth have been relatively mild.
Here is a reminder from the MA Department of Public Health regarding the H1N1 virus, borrowed from the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations:
Certain groups are at higher risk of complications from the flu. These groups include children under the age of 2, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. These people should call their doctor immediately to discuss appropriate treatment if they develop a fever with a cough, sore throat, or runny nose.
Massachusetts residents are reminded to take the following steps to reduce their risk of illness:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
If you are sick stay home from work, and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after symptoms resolve -- whichever is longer.
Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu by visiting www.mass.gov/dph.
Monday, June 15, 2009
H1N1 Update from MA Department of Public Health
On June 11th, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6, which means that a global pandemic is underway. The WHO’s declaration was expected, given that novel H1N1 flu (swine flu) has spread rapidly throughout the world including here in Massachusetts.
It is important to note that the WHO pandemic phases are based on the geographical spread of a novel influenza virus, not the severity of illness.
The WHO declaration does not change how we are currently dealing with the outbreak here in Massachusetts. We have taken this outbreak very seriously from the beginning and have been on a heightened state of alert since the first case was identified in the United States.
We continue to work with our partners at the local, state and federal levels on the H1N1 response in Massachusetts.
Many of the elements of our planning efforts for pandemic influenza have been utilized during our response to H1N1 flu. We have been preparing for a pandemic for years and will continue to direct and adjust our response as needed based on what we are seeing here in Massachusetts and elsewhere.
However, this declaration serves as a reminder not only for government – but for businesses, communities and individuals as well – to take steps to prepare in the event that this flu outbreak becomes more severe. We have information about steps everyone can take to be better prepared on the DPH H1N1 page.
Update on Massachusetts:
We continue to see person-to-person spread of the H1N1 flu virus here in Massachusetts, and the level of influenza activity in our state is much higher than it normally is at this time of year. CDC has reported that H1N1 flu has now spread to every state in the nation. Likewise, every county in Massachusetts has seen confirmed cases on H1N1 flu. The CDC has reported that while most areas of the nation are seeing a downward trend in flu activity, the New York and New England regions -- specifically Massachusetts -- continue to see elevated activity. You can see CDC's FluView flu surveillance data here.
Massachusetts and the other New England states are in "Region I" and New York is in "Region II". The information regarding Massachusetts on FluView is generated by data that we provide CDC through our routine influenza-like illness surveillance systems. This new strain of virus is the predominant strain of flu that is circulating now and is likely the cause of an increase in visits to health care providers throughout the state.
Many schools, particularly in Eastern Massachusetts, continue to feel the brunt of the H1N1 outbreak with a number of systems dealing with an increase in absenteeism of students and staff. However, as of today only nine (9) schools are reported to be closed because of H1N1 flu (8 in Boston, 1 in Randolph).
Cases:
There are now 1,153 confirmed cases of H1N1 flu in Massachusetts (77 more than our last update).
There have been 80 people hospitalized since the outbreak began (5 more than our last update).
Age breakdown on confirmed cases:
0-4 171
5-24 685
25-64 285
65+ 11
Unknown 1
Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways; it is impossible to know whether this outbreak will decrease, remain the same, or grow in coming weeks, and whether the illness will remain at its current severity which, on the whole has been relatively mild for most people.
Some severe cases may occur in people with underlying risk factors such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions.
Guidance for the Public:
Preventing the Flu: Because there is no vaccine for H1N1 influenza, public health officials remind all Massachusetts residents to continue taking simple steps to keep themselves and others healthy.
Most people that get the H1N1 flu do not need to be tested or seen by a doctor. They can simply stay home, get plenty of rest, and take over-the- counter medication for their fever, aches and pains. Although the H1N1 flu doesn’t seem to be more severe than the seasonal flu, certain groups of people may be at greater risk for complications from any flu – whether seasonal or H1N1.
Anyone in the groups listed below who has a fever, along with a cough, sore throat or runny nose, should contact their doctor to talk with them about treatment with antivirals. Antivirals work best if they are taken within 2 days of when symptoms start, so even people with mild illness should call their doctor right away if they have any of these conditions.
It is important to note that the WHO pandemic phases are based on the geographical spread of a novel influenza virus, not the severity of illness.
The WHO declaration does not change how we are currently dealing with the outbreak here in Massachusetts. We have taken this outbreak very seriously from the beginning and have been on a heightened state of alert since the first case was identified in the United States.
We continue to work with our partners at the local, state and federal levels on the H1N1 response in Massachusetts.
Many of the elements of our planning efforts for pandemic influenza have been utilized during our response to H1N1 flu. We have been preparing for a pandemic for years and will continue to direct and adjust our response as needed based on what we are seeing here in Massachusetts and elsewhere.
However, this declaration serves as a reminder not only for government – but for businesses, communities and individuals as well – to take steps to prepare in the event that this flu outbreak becomes more severe. We have information about steps everyone can take to be better prepared on the DPH H1N1 page.
Update on Massachusetts:
We continue to see person-to-person spread of the H1N1 flu virus here in Massachusetts, and the level of influenza activity in our state is much higher than it normally is at this time of year. CDC has reported that H1N1 flu has now spread to every state in the nation. Likewise, every county in Massachusetts has seen confirmed cases on H1N1 flu. The CDC has reported that while most areas of the nation are seeing a downward trend in flu activity, the New York and New England regions -- specifically Massachusetts -- continue to see elevated activity. You can see CDC's FluView flu surveillance data here.
Massachusetts and the other New England states are in "Region I" and New York is in "Region II". The information regarding Massachusetts on FluView is generated by data that we provide CDC through our routine influenza-like illness surveillance systems. This new strain of virus is the predominant strain of flu that is circulating now and is likely the cause of an increase in visits to health care providers throughout the state.
Many schools, particularly in Eastern Massachusetts, continue to feel the brunt of the H1N1 outbreak with a number of systems dealing with an increase in absenteeism of students and staff. However, as of today only nine (9) schools are reported to be closed because of H1N1 flu (8 in Boston, 1 in Randolph).
Cases:
There are now 1,153 confirmed cases of H1N1 flu in Massachusetts (77 more than our last update).
There have been 80 people hospitalized since the outbreak began (5 more than our last update).
Age breakdown on confirmed cases:
0-4 171
5-24 685
25-64 285
65+ 11
Unknown 1
Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways; it is impossible to know whether this outbreak will decrease, remain the same, or grow in coming weeks, and whether the illness will remain at its current severity which, on the whole has been relatively mild for most people.
Some severe cases may occur in people with underlying risk factors such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions.
Guidance for the Public:
Preventing the Flu: Because there is no vaccine for H1N1 influenza, public health officials remind all Massachusetts residents to continue taking simple steps to keep themselves and others healthy.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough with a tissue or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
- If you are sick stay home from work and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after your symptoms go away—whichever is longer.
- Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu.
Most people that get the H1N1 flu do not need to be tested or seen by a doctor. They can simply stay home, get plenty of rest, and take over-the- counter medication for their fever, aches and pains. Although the H1N1 flu doesn’t seem to be more severe than the seasonal flu, certain groups of people may be at greater risk for complications from any flu – whether seasonal or H1N1.
Anyone in the groups listed below who has a fever, along with a cough, sore throat or runny nose, should contact their doctor to talk with them about treatment with antivirals. Antivirals work best if they are taken within 2 days of when symptoms start, so even people with mild illness should call their doctor right away if they have any of these conditions.
- Children less than 2 years old
- People age 65 years or older
- Pregnant women
- People who have chronic health problems like heart disease, asthma or diabetes
- Children and teens who are on long-term aspirin therapy who might be at risk for experiencing Reye’s syndrome after influenza virus infection
- Adults and children who have compromised immune systems caused by medications or by HIV infection
------
This post was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health Blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
Advocating for Active Living in Your Community, Part 1
By: Maya Physical Activity Coordinator for the MA Department of Public Health
“It is unreasonable to expect that people will change their behavior easily when so many forces in the social, cultural and physical environment conspire against such change.” - Institute of Medicine
I love this quote because I think it shows how complicated it really is for someone to change their behavior. It’s just not as simple as telling someone to “eat better” or “move more.” Yes, those may be the end goals but getting there is not that straightforward.
Each of the choices we make daily are influenced by different people, places or circumstances, whether we realize it or not. There are groups of people - our families, friends, co-workers, healthcare providers for example - who can impact on our decisions. And there are places (and policies that govern those places) that also have an effect on the choices we make: these are the places we live, work, learn and play.
Chew on this for a minute. It is not easy to eat at least 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day if you can’t stock your fridge with delicious, colorful produce because the selection at your local grocery store is not really all that colorful, or maybe it is too expensive or perhaps the grocery store is too far away. So, while you know that you should eat more fruits and veggies, your environment has made it really hard for you to make that choice.
On the other hand, it would be easy and fun to reach the recommended amount of physical activity (2.5 hours of moderately intense activity per week for adults) if there was a safe, well lit, nicely landscaped bicycle path that went from your house to your office, and once you arrived at your office, there was a secure place to lock up your bicycle and shower facilities in the building so you could freshen up. What a great way to start your day, right?
These two examples show how our environment can influence our ability and decisions to eat better or be more active. Access to affordable fresh fruits and vegetables, aggressive pricing strategies for produce, paths that connect to destinations or places of interest, and secure bicycle facilities are examples of policies or environmental strategies that can encourage a person to make the healthy choice, more easily.
Because our ability to eat better and move more is so connected to the environment we live in, Mass in Motion has made it a priority to support local initiatives in making the healthy choice the easy choice for community members. The Department of Public Health has joined forces with Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA Foundation, Boston Foundation, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation, MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation, Tufts Health Plan Foundation and The Medical Foundation to provide a great opportunity for cities and towns, over the next two years, to 1) engage their municipal leadership, community partners and members, 2) assess their existing environment as it relates to healthy eating and active living, and 3) create, and begin implementation of, an action plan that is based on a variety of policy and environmental strategies like the examples I mentioned earlier.
It’s high time that our environments - socially, culturally and physically - conspired to make the healthy choice the easy choice…. not the other way around.
--------------------
This post was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health's blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
“It is unreasonable to expect that people will change their behavior easily when so many forces in the social, cultural and physical environment conspire against such change.” - Institute of Medicine
I love this quote because I think it shows how complicated it really is for someone to change their behavior. It’s just not as simple as telling someone to “eat better” or “move more.” Yes, those may be the end goals but getting there is not that straightforward.
Each of the choices we make daily are influenced by different people, places or circumstances, whether we realize it or not. There are groups of people - our families, friends, co-workers, healthcare providers for example - who can impact on our decisions. And there are places (and policies that govern those places) that also have an effect on the choices we make: these are the places we live, work, learn and play.
Chew on this for a minute. It is not easy to eat at least 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day if you can’t stock your fridge with delicious, colorful produce because the selection at your local grocery store is not really all that colorful, or maybe it is too expensive or perhaps the grocery store is too far away. So, while you know that you should eat more fruits and veggies, your environment has made it really hard for you to make that choice.
On the other hand, it would be easy and fun to reach the recommended amount of physical activity (2.5 hours of moderately intense activity per week for adults) if there was a safe, well lit, nicely landscaped bicycle path that went from your house to your office, and once you arrived at your office, there was a secure place to lock up your bicycle and shower facilities in the building so you could freshen up. What a great way to start your day, right?
These two examples show how our environment can influence our ability and decisions to eat better or be more active. Access to affordable fresh fruits and vegetables, aggressive pricing strategies for produce, paths that connect to destinations or places of interest, and secure bicycle facilities are examples of policies or environmental strategies that can encourage a person to make the healthy choice, more easily.
Because our ability to eat better and move more is so connected to the environment we live in, Mass in Motion has made it a priority to support local initiatives in making the healthy choice the easy choice for community members. The Department of Public Health has joined forces with Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA Foundation, Boston Foundation, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation, MetroWest Community Health Care Foundation, Tufts Health Plan Foundation and The Medical Foundation to provide a great opportunity for cities and towns, over the next two years, to 1) engage their municipal leadership, community partners and members, 2) assess their existing environment as it relates to healthy eating and active living, and 3) create, and begin implementation of, an action plan that is based on a variety of policy and environmental strategies like the examples I mentioned earlier.
It’s high time that our environments - socially, culturally and physically - conspired to make the healthy choice the easy choice…. not the other way around.
--------------------
This post was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health's blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
New Case of Influenza Type A at Amherst Regional High School
As of yesterday, a case of Influenza Type A has been confirmed at Amherst Regional High School. While not all Type A cases are H1N1 (Swine Flu), the MA Department of Public Health is no longer recommending confirmatory testing for positive Type A tests in individuals who are not high risk or chronically ill. Thus, Type A influenza results are considered to be H1N1 and treated accordingly.
The Amherst Public School System has published a letter on their website which can be read by clicking here. Thr text of the letter reads thus:
"As you probably know, there are different strains of flu affecting Massachusetts and there is a confirmed case of Influenza Type A, which includes H1N1, at our Regional High School. So far, the symptoms of the new H1N1 flu are similar to those of seasonal flu. But any flu virus can cause serious illness, thus we are working very closely with the Amherst Health Department and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health officials to try to prevent the spread of the flu among students and staff.
"We are monitoring student and staff attendance because some schools in the state have had to close due to high rates of absenteeism due flu like symptoms. To assist with our monitoring please contact your school if your child is absent and experiencing flu like symptoms. Even though your child’s school has not closed, please think about how you would manage child care issues if closure were necessary.
"There are steps every parent/guardian can take to lower their children’s chances of getting sick. Teach them to wash their hands often with soap and water. Also, teach your children to cough into their inner elbow or into a tissue, instead of their hands. This will help prevent the spread of germs, including the flu virus.
"Make sure that your child does not have signs of the flu before you send them to school each morning. On the opposite side of this page is “Flu symptoms Checklist for Families and Schools” for your reference. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is requesting that if your child has signs of the flu, please keep them at home for 7 days after their symptoms start, or 24 hours after their symptoms go away—whichever is longer.
"When your child is well again, and has stayed home according to the guidance above, he or she does not need to be tested for the flu before returning to school. Most people who get the flu do not need to seek medical care and do not need to be tested for H1N1 flu. However, if you have questions or concerns, you should contact your health care provider.
"We appreciate your continued cooperation and support as we work together to reduce the spread of the flu in our community."
The Amherst Health Department is in close contact with the the School Department, and any necessary updates will be communicated to the public via the ARPS website or this blog. As always, please feel free to call the Health Department at 259-3077 for further information.
The Amherst Public School System has published a letter on their website which can be read by clicking here. Thr text of the letter reads thus:
"As you probably know, there are different strains of flu affecting Massachusetts and there is a confirmed case of Influenza Type A, which includes H1N1, at our Regional High School. So far, the symptoms of the new H1N1 flu are similar to those of seasonal flu. But any flu virus can cause serious illness, thus we are working very closely with the Amherst Health Department and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health officials to try to prevent the spread of the flu among students and staff.
"We are monitoring student and staff attendance because some schools in the state have had to close due to high rates of absenteeism due flu like symptoms. To assist with our monitoring please contact your school if your child is absent and experiencing flu like symptoms. Even though your child’s school has not closed, please think about how you would manage child care issues if closure were necessary.
"There are steps every parent/guardian can take to lower their children’s chances of getting sick. Teach them to wash their hands often with soap and water. Also, teach your children to cough into their inner elbow or into a tissue, instead of their hands. This will help prevent the spread of germs, including the flu virus.
"Make sure that your child does not have signs of the flu before you send them to school each morning. On the opposite side of this page is “Flu symptoms Checklist for Families and Schools” for your reference. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is requesting that if your child has signs of the flu, please keep them at home for 7 days after their symptoms start, or 24 hours after their symptoms go away—whichever is longer.
"When your child is well again, and has stayed home according to the guidance above, he or she does not need to be tested for the flu before returning to school. Most people who get the flu do not need to seek medical care and do not need to be tested for H1N1 flu. However, if you have questions or concerns, you should contact your health care provider.
"We appreciate your continued cooperation and support as we work together to reduce the spread of the flu in our community."
The Amherst Health Department is in close contact with the the School Department, and any necessary updates will be communicated to the public via the ARPS website or this blog. As always, please feel free to call the Health Department at 259-3077 for further information.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Kids and Technology: Tips for Parents in a High-Tech World
Although children may not want to admit it, the school year is here. Parents know that back to school means a packed planner filled with everything from recitals to parent-teacher conferences. As time gets stretched, parents and children may talk less and fall back on timesavers, like notes or text messages.
But when it comes to your child’s safety in the virtual world, parents should not rely on one strategy alone. According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, children say they know how to get around home and school filters to access MySpace, e-mail or instant messaging programs. Children also admit that they will access blocked sites from friends’ computers who do not have limits on their Internet access.
Experts recommend parents use multiple strategies to keep kids safe in the virtual world. “Unfortunately, prohibiting access to technology or sole reliance upon blocking or filtering software are often not enough to prevent electronic aggression,” says Marci Hertz, a health scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Kids are savvy and can get around filters and blocking software. Just like putting a seatbelt on before starting the car, there are some fundamental strategies parents should observe to make sure use of electronic technology is a safe experience.”
A new CDC resource for educators and parents offers the following strategies:
Talk to your child. Parents ask their children where they are going and who they are going with whenever they leave the house. They should take the same approach when their children go on the Internet—where are they going and who are they with?
Develop rules. Together with your child, develop rules about acceptable and safe behaviors for all electronic media.
Explore the Internet. Visit the websites your child frequents, and assess the pros and cons. Most websites and on-line activities are beneficial. They help young people learn new information and interact with people who have similar interests.
Talk with others. Talk to other parents about how they have discussed technology use with their children.
Connect with the school. Parents are encouraged to work with their child’s school and school district to develop a class for parents that educates about school policies on electronic aggression and resources available to parents.
Educate yourself. Stay informed about the new devices and websites your child is using. Continually talk with your child and explore the technology yourself.
-------
This article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But when it comes to your child’s safety in the virtual world, parents should not rely on one strategy alone. According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, children say they know how to get around home and school filters to access MySpace, e-mail or instant messaging programs. Children also admit that they will access blocked sites from friends’ computers who do not have limits on their Internet access.
Experts recommend parents use multiple strategies to keep kids safe in the virtual world. “Unfortunately, prohibiting access to technology or sole reliance upon blocking or filtering software are often not enough to prevent electronic aggression,” says Marci Hertz, a health scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Kids are savvy and can get around filters and blocking software. Just like putting a seatbelt on before starting the car, there are some fundamental strategies parents should observe to make sure use of electronic technology is a safe experience.”
A new CDC resource for educators and parents offers the following strategies:
Talk to your child. Parents ask their children where they are going and who they are going with whenever they leave the house. They should take the same approach when their children go on the Internet—where are they going and who are they with?
Develop rules. Together with your child, develop rules about acceptable and safe behaviors for all electronic media.
Explore the Internet. Visit the websites your child frequents, and assess the pros and cons. Most websites and on-line activities are beneficial. They help young people learn new information and interact with people who have similar interests.
Talk with others. Talk to other parents about how they have discussed technology use with their children.
Connect with the school. Parents are encouraged to work with their child’s school and school district to develop a class for parents that educates about school policies on electronic aggression and resources available to parents.
Educate yourself. Stay informed about the new devices and websites your child is using. Continually talk with your child and explore the technology yourself.
-------
This article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Why Alcohol and Pregnancy Do Not Mix
A mother’s alcohol use during pregnancy can cause birth defects and developmental disabilities. These problems are completely preventable if a mother does not drink alcohol while pregnant.
The U.S. Surgeon General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and many other national organizations all agree that all alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy.
Women Need to Get the Facts:
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a baby to be born with birth defects and have disabilities. These conditions, called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, or FASDs, are among the top preventable birth defects and developmental disabilities. FASDs can cause problems in how a person looks, grows, learns and acts. FASDs can also cause birth defects of the heart, brain, and other major organs. These problems last a lifetime.
There is no known amount of alcohol that is safe to drink while pregnant. All drinks with alcohol can hurt an unborn baby. A 12-ounce can of beer has as much alcohol as a 5-ounce glass of wine or a 1-ounce shot of liquor.
There is no safe time to drink during pregnancy. Alcohol can harm a baby at any time during pregnancy. It can cause problems in the early weeks of pregnancy, before a woman even knows she is pregnant.
Too many women think drinking alcohol during pregnancy won’t hurt their unborn baby. About 1 in 12 pregnant women in the United States reports alcohol use.
FASDs are 100% preventable—if a woman does not drink alcohol while she is pregnant.
Ways to prevent FASDs:
If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, do not drink alcohol.
Even if you are not trying to get pregnant, but could become pregnant, do not drink alcohol.
If you are pregnant and drinking alcohol, stop now.
Mothers-to-be are not the only ones who can prevent FASDs. Friends and family members can play an important role by encouraging women to avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Schools, health and social service organizations, and communities can promote FASD prevention activities through education and intervention.
If you have questions about alcohol and pregnancy, talk to your doctor, nurse or other health care professional.
For more information, go to the CDC’s Web site at www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas.
---------
This article has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The U.S. Surgeon General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and many other national organizations all agree that all alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy.
Women Need to Get the Facts:
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a baby to be born with birth defects and have disabilities. These conditions, called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, or FASDs, are among the top preventable birth defects and developmental disabilities. FASDs can cause problems in how a person looks, grows, learns and acts. FASDs can also cause birth defects of the heart, brain, and other major organs. These problems last a lifetime.
There is no known amount of alcohol that is safe to drink while pregnant. All drinks with alcohol can hurt an unborn baby. A 12-ounce can of beer has as much alcohol as a 5-ounce glass of wine or a 1-ounce shot of liquor.
There is no safe time to drink during pregnancy. Alcohol can harm a baby at any time during pregnancy. It can cause problems in the early weeks of pregnancy, before a woman even knows she is pregnant.
Too many women think drinking alcohol during pregnancy won’t hurt their unborn baby. About 1 in 12 pregnant women in the United States reports alcohol use.
FASDs are 100% preventable—if a woman does not drink alcohol while she is pregnant.
Ways to prevent FASDs:
If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, do not drink alcohol.
Even if you are not trying to get pregnant, but could become pregnant, do not drink alcohol.
If you are pregnant and drinking alcohol, stop now.
Mothers-to-be are not the only ones who can prevent FASDs. Friends and family members can play an important role by encouraging women to avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Schools, health and social service organizations, and communities can promote FASD prevention activities through education and intervention.
If you have questions about alcohol and pregnancy, talk to your doctor, nurse or other health care professional.
For more information, go to the CDC’s Web site at www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas.
---------
This article has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Public Health Fact Sheet: Lyme Disease
What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria (germs) that are spread by tiny, infected deer ticks. Both people and animals can have Lyme disease.
Where do cases of Lyme disease occur?
In the United States, Lyme disease most commonly occurs in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions and in theupper Midwest. In Massachusetts, Lyme disease occurs throughout the state.
How is Lyme disease spread?
Lyme disease is spread by the bite of an infected deer tick. The tick usually must be attached to a person for at least 24 hours before it can spread the germ. Deer ticks in Massachusetts can also carry the germs that cause babesiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (also known as human granulocytic ehrlichiosis). Deer ticks are capable of spreading more than one type of germ in a single bite.
When can I get Lyme disease?
Lyme disease can occur during any time of the year. The bacteria that cause Lyme disease are spread by infected deer ticks. Young ticks (nymphs) are most active during the warm weather months between May and July. Adult ticks are most active during the fall and spring but may also be out searching for a host any time that winter temperatures are above freezing.
How soon do symptoms of Lyme disease appear after a tick bite?
Symptoms of early Lyme disease, described below, usually begin to appear from 3 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected tick. If untreated, symptoms of late Lyme disease may occur from weeks to years after the initial infection.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
Early stage (days to weeks): The most common early symptom is a rash (erythema migrans) where the tick was attached. It often, but not always, starts as a small red area that spreads outward, clearing up in the center so it looks like a donut. Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, stiff neck, sore and aching muscles and joints, fatigue and swollen glands may also occur.
Even though these symptoms may go away by themselves, without medical treatment, some people will get the rash again in other places on their bodies, and many will experience more serious problems. Treatment during the early stage prevents later, more serious problems.
Later stages (weeks to years): If untreated, people with Lyme disease can develop late-stage symptoms even if they never had a rash. The joints, nervous system and heart are most commonly affected.
• About 60% of people with untreated Lyme disease get arthritis in their knees, elbows and/or wrists. The arthritis can move from joint to joint and become chronic.
• Many people who don’t get treatment develop nervous system problems. These problems include meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), facial weakness (Bell’s palsy) or other problems with nerves of the head, and weakness or pain (or both) in the hands, arms, feet and/or legs. These symptoms can last for months, often shifting between mild and severe.
• The heart also can be affected in Lyme disease, with slowing down of the heart rate and fainting. The effect on the heart can be early or late.
Is there treatment for Lyme disease?
People who are diagnosed with Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. Prompt treatment during the early stage of the disease prevents later, more serious problems.
What can I do to lower my chances of getting Lyme disease, or any other disease, from ticks?
Prevention begins with you! Take steps to reduce your chances of being bitten by any tick. Ticks are most active during warm weather, generally late spring through fall. However, ticks can be out any time that temperatures are above freezing. Ticks cling to vegetation and are most numerous in brushy, wooded or grassy habitats. They are not found on open, sandy beaches, but may be found in grassy dune areas. When you are outside in an area likely to have ticks (e.g. brushy, wooded or grassy places), follow these simple steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:
• Use a repellent with DEET (the chemical N-N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) or permethrin according to the instructions given on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear, and should not be applied to skin. More information on choosing a repellent and how to use repellents safely is included in the MDPH Public Health Fact Sheet on
Tick Repellents at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/factsheets/factsheets.htm. If you can’t go online, contact the MDPH at (617) 983-6800 for a hard copy.
• Wear long, light-colored pants tucked into your socks or boots, and a long-sleeved shirt. This may be difficult to do when the weather is hot, but it will help keep ticks away from your skin and help you spot a tick on your clothing faster.
• Stay on cleared trails when walking or hiking, avoiding the edge habitat where ticks are likely to be.
• Talk to your veterinarian about tick control options (tick collars, repellents) for your pets.
After spending time in an area likely to have ticks, check yourself, your children and pets for ticks.
Young ticks, called nymphs, are the size of a poppy seed. Adult deer ticks are the size of a sesame seed. Both nymph and adult deer ticks can spread the bacteria that cause Lyme disease; however, nymphs are of more concern. They are aggressive feeders and so tiny that it can be difficult to see them on the body, unless you are looking carefully. When doing a tick check, remember that ticks like places that are warm and moist. Always check the back of the knees, armpits, groin, scalp, back of the neck and behind the ears. If you find a tick attached to your
body, remove it as soon as possible using a fine-point tweezers. Do not squeeze or twist the tick’s body, but grasp it close to your skin and pull straight out with steady pressure.
Know the symptoms of Lyme disease as described in this fact sheet. If you have been someplace likely to have ticks and you develop symptoms of Lyme disease, or any other disease carried by ticks, see your health care provider right away.
Where can I get more information?
• For questions about your own health, contact your doctor, nurse, or health care clinic.
• For questions about Lyme disease or other diseases spread by ticks, contact the MDPH at (617) 983-6800 or toll free at (888) 658-2850 or online at http://www.mass.gov/dph. You may also contact your local Board of Health (listed in the telephone directory under “Government”).
• For questions about tick repellents, read the MDPH Public Health Fact Sheet on Tick Repellents at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/factsheets/factsheets.htm. If you can’t go online, you may ask for hard copies of MDPH fact sheets by calling the MDPH number above.
Did you know?
You don’t have to be a hiker on Cape Cod to worry about ticks. In Massachusetts, you may be bitten in your own backyard. There are lots of things you can do around your own backyard to make it less inviting for ticks! Visit the MDPH Tickborne Disease Website at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/epii/lyme/lymehp.htm for suggestions.
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Originally published as a Public Health Fact Sheet by the MA Department of Public Health.
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria (germs) that are spread by tiny, infected deer ticks. Both people and animals can have Lyme disease.
Where do cases of Lyme disease occur?
In the United States, Lyme disease most commonly occurs in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions and in theupper Midwest. In Massachusetts, Lyme disease occurs throughout the state.
How is Lyme disease spread?
Lyme disease is spread by the bite of an infected deer tick. The tick usually must be attached to a person for at least 24 hours before it can spread the germ. Deer ticks in Massachusetts can also carry the germs that cause babesiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis (also known as human granulocytic ehrlichiosis). Deer ticks are capable of spreading more than one type of germ in a single bite.
When can I get Lyme disease?
Lyme disease can occur during any time of the year. The bacteria that cause Lyme disease are spread by infected deer ticks. Young ticks (nymphs) are most active during the warm weather months between May and July. Adult ticks are most active during the fall and spring but may also be out searching for a host any time that winter temperatures are above freezing.
How soon do symptoms of Lyme disease appear after a tick bite?
Symptoms of early Lyme disease, described below, usually begin to appear from 3 to 30 days after being bitten by an infected tick. If untreated, symptoms of late Lyme disease may occur from weeks to years after the initial infection.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
Early stage (days to weeks): The most common early symptom is a rash (erythema migrans) where the tick was attached. It often, but not always, starts as a small red area that spreads outward, clearing up in the center so it looks like a donut. Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, stiff neck, sore and aching muscles and joints, fatigue and swollen glands may also occur.
Even though these symptoms may go away by themselves, without medical treatment, some people will get the rash again in other places on their bodies, and many will experience more serious problems. Treatment during the early stage prevents later, more serious problems.
Later stages (weeks to years): If untreated, people with Lyme disease can develop late-stage symptoms even if they never had a rash. The joints, nervous system and heart are most commonly affected.
• About 60% of people with untreated Lyme disease get arthritis in their knees, elbows and/or wrists. The arthritis can move from joint to joint and become chronic.
• Many people who don’t get treatment develop nervous system problems. These problems include meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord), facial weakness (Bell’s palsy) or other problems with nerves of the head, and weakness or pain (or both) in the hands, arms, feet and/or legs. These symptoms can last for months, often shifting between mild and severe.
• The heart also can be affected in Lyme disease, with slowing down of the heart rate and fainting. The effect on the heart can be early or late.
Is there treatment for Lyme disease?
People who are diagnosed with Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. Prompt treatment during the early stage of the disease prevents later, more serious problems.
What can I do to lower my chances of getting Lyme disease, or any other disease, from ticks?
Prevention begins with you! Take steps to reduce your chances of being bitten by any tick. Ticks are most active during warm weather, generally late spring through fall. However, ticks can be out any time that temperatures are above freezing. Ticks cling to vegetation and are most numerous in brushy, wooded or grassy habitats. They are not found on open, sandy beaches, but may be found in grassy dune areas. When you are outside in an area likely to have ticks (e.g. brushy, wooded or grassy places), follow these simple steps to protect yourself and your loved ones:
• Use a repellent with DEET (the chemical N-N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) or permethrin according to the instructions given on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear, and should not be applied to skin. More information on choosing a repellent and how to use repellents safely is included in the MDPH Public Health Fact Sheet on
Tick Repellents at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/factsheets/factsheets.htm. If you can’t go online, contact the MDPH at (617) 983-6800 for a hard copy.
• Wear long, light-colored pants tucked into your socks or boots, and a long-sleeved shirt. This may be difficult to do when the weather is hot, but it will help keep ticks away from your skin and help you spot a tick on your clothing faster.
• Stay on cleared trails when walking or hiking, avoiding the edge habitat where ticks are likely to be.
• Talk to your veterinarian about tick control options (tick collars, repellents) for your pets.
After spending time in an area likely to have ticks, check yourself, your children and pets for ticks.
Young ticks, called nymphs, are the size of a poppy seed. Adult deer ticks are the size of a sesame seed. Both nymph and adult deer ticks can spread the bacteria that cause Lyme disease; however, nymphs are of more concern. They are aggressive feeders and so tiny that it can be difficult to see them on the body, unless you are looking carefully. When doing a tick check, remember that ticks like places that are warm and moist. Always check the back of the knees, armpits, groin, scalp, back of the neck and behind the ears. If you find a tick attached to your
body, remove it as soon as possible using a fine-point tweezers. Do not squeeze or twist the tick’s body, but grasp it close to your skin and pull straight out with steady pressure.
Know the symptoms of Lyme disease as described in this fact sheet. If you have been someplace likely to have ticks and you develop symptoms of Lyme disease, or any other disease carried by ticks, see your health care provider right away.
Where can I get more information?
• For questions about your own health, contact your doctor, nurse, or health care clinic.
• For questions about Lyme disease or other diseases spread by ticks, contact the MDPH at (617) 983-6800 or toll free at (888) 658-2850 or online at http://www.mass.gov/dph. You may also contact your local Board of Health (listed in the telephone directory under “Government”).
• For questions about tick repellents, read the MDPH Public Health Fact Sheet on Tick Repellents at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/factsheets/factsheets.htm. If you can’t go online, you may ask for hard copies of MDPH fact sheets by calling the MDPH number above.
Did you know?
You don’t have to be a hiker on Cape Cod to worry about ticks. In Massachusetts, you may be bitten in your own backyard. There are lots of things you can do around your own backyard to make it less inviting for ticks! Visit the MDPH Tickborne Disease Website at www.mass.gov/dph/cdc/epii/lyme/lymehp.htm for suggestions.
--------
Originally published as a Public Health Fact Sheet by the MA Department of Public Health.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
H1N1 (Swine Flu) Update for June 2nd, 2009
Yesterday, the MA Department of Public Health confirmed that the number of cases of H1N1 virus has increased to a total of 636 cases in the Commonwealth. Of the 107 new cases confirmed on June 1st, two had been hospitalized due to complications. Overall, there have been 34 hospitalized cases in Massachusetts since the beginning of the outbreak.
With the number of cases in Massachusetts continuing to increase, the DPH has changed its focus from individual case counts to examining the overall trend of the disease. Thus, DPH no longer lists individual cases of confirmed H1N1, and now has begun to list cases by county. DPH is also closely examining the age distribution of cases, as well as the aforementioned hospitalization rates.
Yesterday, the DPH stated the following on its blog:
"Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways; it is impossible to know whether this outbreak will decrease, remain the same, or grow in coming weeks, and whether the illness will remain at its current severity which, on the whole has been relatively mild. Some severe cases may occur in people with underlying risk factors such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and DPH are watching closely for signs of increased severity of the H1N1 influenza (swine flu), and will continue to monitor and report on any developing trends."
The same precautions continue to be urged by the DPH, the CDC, as well as the Amherst Health Department.
Download information on cases from 6-01-2009.
View a list of all MA schools which have been closed due to H1N1 Influenza.
With the number of cases in Massachusetts continuing to increase, the DPH has changed its focus from individual case counts to examining the overall trend of the disease. Thus, DPH no longer lists individual cases of confirmed H1N1, and now has begun to list cases by county. DPH is also closely examining the age distribution of cases, as well as the aforementioned hospitalization rates.
Yesterday, the DPH stated the following on its blog:
"Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways; it is impossible to know whether this outbreak will decrease, remain the same, or grow in coming weeks, and whether the illness will remain at its current severity which, on the whole has been relatively mild. Some severe cases may occur in people with underlying risk factors such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and DPH are watching closely for signs of increased severity of the H1N1 influenza (swine flu), and will continue to monitor and report on any developing trends."
The same precautions continue to be urged by the DPH, the CDC, as well as the Amherst Health Department.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough with a tissue or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
- If you are sick stay home from work and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after your symptoms go away—whichever is longer.
Download information on cases from 6-01-2009.
View a list of all MA schools which have been closed due to H1N1 Influenza.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Chang Farm Recalls Expired Chang Farm Bean and Soy Sprouts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Chang Farm, River Road, Whatley, MA is issuing a voluntary recall of Bean and Soy sprouts produced from Chang Farms, with specific expired date codes because of the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes (L. Monocytogenes) contamination.
Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The affected product is packaged in 10 lb bags (bulk) and 12 oz plastic bags (retail), labeled under the Chang Farm Brand as Soy Sprouts and have a “Sell By” date of May 23, 2009 or May 24, 2009 and Bean Sprouts with “Use By” date of May 23, 2009 or May 24, 2009.
The product has been distributed to retail stores and restaurants throughout MA, CT, NY and NJ.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
The contamination was discovered after a sample was secured at a retail store in New York which tested positive for L. monocytogenes.
All grocery stores, food services, and other retailers who have this lot in MA, CT, NY and NJ should remove this product from their shelves. Consumers should discard this product or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers should contact their healthcare provider with any illness concerns. Consumers with questions about the warning may contact Chang Farm at 413-665-3341.
Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The affected product is packaged in 10 lb bags (bulk) and 12 oz plastic bags (retail), labeled under the Chang Farm Brand as Soy Sprouts and have a “Sell By” date of May 23, 2009 or May 24, 2009 and Bean Sprouts with “Use By” date of May 23, 2009 or May 24, 2009.
The product has been distributed to retail stores and restaurants throughout MA, CT, NY and NJ.
No illnesses have been reported to date.
The contamination was discovered after a sample was secured at a retail store in New York which tested positive for L. monocytogenes.
All grocery stores, food services, and other retailers who have this lot in MA, CT, NY and NJ should remove this product from their shelves. Consumers should discard this product or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers should contact their healthcare provider with any illness concerns. Consumers with questions about the warning may contact Chang Farm at 413-665-3341.
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