Amherst Public Health Department

Winter Safety Tips

2011-01-19T10:48:00.006-05:00

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “The winter season can present special challenges for your family’s health and safety, including fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, motor vehicle injuries and more.” The Amherst Health Department encourages residents to review a Winter Safety Tips list to help remind you of precautions that should be taken while experiencing a New England winter.

Winter Safety Tips
Check the batteries of your household smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Never use a gas range or oven to heat your living environment.
Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home.
Clear snow from exhaust vents of household dryers and Direct Vent Gas Furnace Systems.
Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space. If your vehicle is outside, clear the snow away from the exhaust pipe before running the engine.
Protect yourself by dressing appropriately: multiple light layers, hat and mittens, water resistant boots and outer layer.
Be careful of over-exertion and muscle strain when shoveling snow.
Be aware of safe, winter driving tips, and prepare a winter emergency supply kit to keep in your vehicle.

Additional Winter Safety Tips and Information
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention
Tips to Ensure Safe Winter Driving
Winter Fire Prevention Facts

Proper Disposal of Expired Medications

2009-08-06T12:13:00.000-04:00

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.

School Supplies Pose Toxic Threat to Children’s Health

2009-08-05T08:49:00.003-04:00

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.

Public Health Emergency in Northwestern Montana

2009-07-31T06:53:00.000-04:00

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.

Salmonella and Salmonellosis

2009-07-28T11:32:00.003-04:00

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.

Diarrhea
Fever
Abdominal cramps
Headache

These symptoms, along with possible nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting, usually last for 4 to 7 days. Symptoms are most severe in the elderly, infants, and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes or HIV infection.

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.

Complications
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.

NIAID Set to Launch Clinical Trials to Test 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Candidates

2009-07-23T12:24:00.000-04:00

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

FDA Approves Vaccine for 2009-2010 Seasonal Influenza

2009-07-21T09:48:00.001-04:00

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.

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

There is always a possibility of a less than optimal match between the virus strains predicted to circulate and the virus strains that end up causing the most illness. Even if the vaccine and the circulating strains are not an exact match, the vaccine may reduce the severity of the illness or may help prevent influenza-related complications.

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

National Survey Finds Six in Ten Americans Believe Serious Outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) Likely in Fall/Winter

2009-07-17T03:19:00.001-04:00

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.

Update on Recalled Nestlé Toll House Cookie Dough

2009-07-16T11:41:00.002-04:00

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

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.

Chang Farm Recalls Soy Bean Sprouts Because of Possible Health Risk

2009-07-15T09:54:00.000-04:00

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.

General Mills Announces Voluntary Recall of Limited Quantity of ‘Nut Lovers’ flavor of Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters Product

2009-07-13T10:55:00.000-04:00

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/.

Traditions Meal Solutions Recalls Non-Fat Dry Milk Packets Because of Possible Health Risk

2009-07-08T09:29:00.000-04:00

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.

Nestle Voluntarily Recalls all Varieties of Prepackaged, Refrigerated Toll House Cookie Dough

2009-07-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

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.

North Coast Seafood Recalls Tuna Steaks

2009-07-06T09:05:00.000-04:00

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

Stop & Shop Issues A Voluntary Recall of Non-Fat Dry Milk

2009-07-06T09:01:00.000-04:00

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.

Fit Physical Activity into Your Life, Your Way

2009-07-01T01:06:00.000-04:00

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.

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This article was reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

State's Second H1N1 Flu-Related Death Announced

2009-06-30T08:52:00.002-04:00

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.

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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.

Sharps Containers Now Available at The Amherst Health Department

2009-06-29T10:07:00.000-04:00

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!

Advocating for Active Living in Your Community, Part 2

2009-06-24T09:52:00.002-04:00

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.

Public Health Advisory: FDA & CDC Warn Consumers Not to Eat Nestle Toll House Prepackaged, Refrigerated Cookie Dough

2009-06-22T09:48:00.001-04:00

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.

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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 the MA DPH.

FDA Advises Consumers Not To Use Certain Zicam Cold Remedies

2009-06-19T05:24:00.000-04:00

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:

Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel
Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size (a discontinued product)

The FDA has received more than 130 reports of loss of sense of smell associated with the use of these three Zicam products. In these reports, many people who experienced a loss of smell said the condition occurred with the first dose; others reported a loss of the sense of smell after multiple uses of the products.

“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

FDA Warns Web Sites against Marketing Fraudulent H1N1 Flu Virus Claims

2009-06-17T00:51:00.000-04:00

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)

A CDC Image of the H1N1 Influenza Virus

2009-06-16T09:17:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-16T09:00:00.004-04:00

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:

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.

H1N1 Update from MA Department of Public Health

2009-06-15T10:21:00.005-04:00

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.

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.

Treating the 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

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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

2009-06-15T05:40:00.000-04:00

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.

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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.

New Case of Influenza Type A at Amherst Regional High School

2009-06-11T12:27:00.003-04:00

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.

Kids and Technology: Tips for Parents in a High-Tech World

2009-06-10T06:33:00.000-04:00

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.

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This article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Why Alcohol and Pregnancy Do Not Mix

2009-06-08T07:36:00.000-04:00

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.

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This article has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Public Health Fact Sheet: Lyme Disease

2009-06-03T08:23:00.003-04:00

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.

H1N1 (Swine Flu) Update for June 2nd, 2009

2009-06-02T07:59:00.002-04:00

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.

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.

For more information on H1N1 flu (swine flu) please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
Download information on cases from 6-01-2009.
View a list of all MA schools which have been closed due to H1N1 Influenza.

Chang Farm Recalls Expired Chang Farm Bean and Soy Sprouts

2009-06-01T08:57:00.000-04:00

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.

Breathe Easier When You Know More About Asthma

2009-05-28T13:44:00.002-04:00

Did you know that 1 in 10 Americans has, or has had asthma at some point in their lives?

Most people don’t die from asthma, but there is concern for African Americans because asthma is more likely to cause death. The reason for this disparity is not known. But there are asthma control techniques to help people manage their condition successfully. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers this important advice to everyone with asthma – have an asthma action plan and exercise it. The CDC has a variety of information that patients and health-care providers can use to control asthma.

What is asthma?
Asthma, a disease that affects your lungs, is the most common long-term disease of children, but it also affects adults. Each day, 30,000 people have an asthma attack, 1,000 are admitted to the hospital, and 11 people die. Asthma causes repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and early morning or nighttime coughing.

What is an asthma attack?
An asthma attack happens in your body’s airways, which are the paths that carry air to your lungs. During an asthma attack, the sides of the airways in your lungs swell, and the airways shrink. The attack may include coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, and trouble breathing.

How is asthma diagnosed?
Asthma can be hard to diagnose, but regular physical checkups that include checking lung function and allergies can help your health-care provider make the right diagnosis. During a checkup, your health-care provider will ask whether you cough a lot, especially at night, and whether your breathing problems are worse after physical activity or during a particular time of year. Health-care providers will also ask about other symptoms such as chest tightness, wheezing, and colds that last more than 10 days and if anyone in your family has or has had asthma or other breathing problems.

How is asthma treated?
Your health-care provider will help you make an asthma action plan and stick to it. He or she may recommend a combination of medication, environmental changes and behavior modification. Not everyone with asthma has the same needs, and your needs may change as you get older, so it’s important to get regular check-ups.

What triggers asthma attacks?

It’s important to learn what triggers your asthma attacks so you can avoid the triggers whenever possible and be alert for a possible attack when the triggers cannot be avoided. Below are some of the common triggers:

Environmental tobacco smoke
Parents, friends, and relatives of children with asthma should try to stop smoking and avoid smoking near a person with asthma or in their house or car.
Dust mites are in almost everybody’s home, but they don’t cause everybody to have asthma attacks. Use mattress covers and pillow case covers, avoid down-filled pillows, quilts, or comforters and remove stuffed animals and clutter from your bedroom. Clean blinds and curtains on a regular basis.
Air pollution: Pay attention to air quality forecasts on radio and television and plan your activities when air pollution levels are lowest.
Mold: Get rid of mold in all parts of your home. Keep the humidity level in your home between 35 and 50 percent. In hot, humid climates, you may need to use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier or both. Fix water leaks, which allow mold to grow behind walls and under floors.

Other triggers:
Strenuous physical exercise; strong emotional states some medicines; bad weather such as thunderstorms, high humidity, or freezing temperatures; and some foods and food additives can trigger an asthma attack. Allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold or cockroaches may also trigger attacks.

For More Information:
Call 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) or visit http://www.cdc.gov/asthma.

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Reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

West Nile Virus

2009-05-27T11:21:00.004-04:00

What is West Nile Virus (WNV)?

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-carried virus that can cause illness ranging from a mild fever to more serious disease like encephalitis or meningitis. It was first identified in the United States in 1999.

How is WNV spread?

WNV is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. More information about different types of mosquitoes that can spread WNV can be found on the MDPH website at www.mass.gov/dph, under A for arbovirus in the Health Topics A to Z index.

WNV may also be spread through blood transfusion or organ transplant. In addition, there are rare reports of WNV being passed from pregnant or breastfeeding women, who are infected with WNV, to their babies. Since these reports are rare, the health effects on an unborn or breastfeeding baby are unclear and still being studied.

People do not become infected by having direct contact with other infected people, birds or animals.

Why don’t I need to report dead birds anymore?
From 2000 to 2008, MDPH collected reports and ran tests for WNV on dead birds in Massachusetts as one of several ways to monitor WNV activity across the state. In recent years, this method has become less useful for finding the virus. Many other states have discontinued dead bird reporting and testing. Mosquito collection and testing gives the most reliable indication of current WNV activity and this is where monitoring activities will continue to be focused.

Dead birds are no longer being tested for WNV and do not need to be reported to MDPH. Dead birds can be safely disposed of in the trash. Using gloves, a shovel or plastic bags covering your hands, the dead bird should be double-bagged and placed in the trash. You should then wash your hands.

What are the symptoms of WNV?
The majority of people who are infected with WNV (approximately 80%) will have no symptoms.

A smaller number of people who become infected (~ 20%) will have symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands. They may also develop a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back.

Less than 1% of people infected with WNV will develop severe illness, including encephalitis or meningitis. The symptoms of severe illness can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. Persons older than 50 years of age have a higher risk of developing severe illness.

How common is WNV in Massachusetts?
Because most people who are exposed to WNV have no symptoms, it is difficult to know exactly how many people have been infected. People who develop severe illness with WNV are most often reported. Between 2000 and 2008, 60 people were reported with WNV infection in Massachusetts. Six of these people died. Cases have been identified from around the state.

Is there any treatment for WNV?
There is no specific treatment for WNV infections. People with mild WNV infections usually recover on their own. People with severe WNV infections almost always require hospitalization. Their symptoms may last several weeks and neurological effects may be permanent. Approximately 10% of people who develop severe illness will die from the infection.

What can you do to protect yourself from WNV?
Since WNV is most commonly spread by mosquitoes, here are some things you can do to reduce your chances of being bitten:

· Schedule outdoor events to avoid the hours between dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.

· When you are outdoors, wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and socks. This may be difficult to do when the weather is hot, but it will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

· Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 (3-[N-butyl-N-acetyl]-aminopropionic acid) or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-menthane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions 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.

Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age.

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 and using repellents safely is included in the MDPH Fact Sheet on Mosquito Repellents which can be viewed online at www.mass.gov/dph. If you can’t go online, contact the MDPH at (617) 983-6800 for a hard copy.

· Keep mosquitoes out of your house by repairing any holes in your screens and making sure they are tightly attached to all your doors and windows.

· Remove areas of standing water around your home. Here are some suggestions:

Look around outside your house for containers and other things that might collect water and turn them over, regularly empty them, or dispose of them.

Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outdoors so that water can drain out.

Clean clogged roof gutters; remove leaves and debris that may prevent drainage of rainwater.

Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.

Change the water in birdbaths every few days; aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
Keep swimming pools clean and properly chlorinated; remove standing water from pool covers.

Use landscaping to eliminate standing water that collects on your property.

Did you know?
Mosquitoes can begin to multiply in any puddle or standing water that lasts for more than four days! Mosquito breeding sites can be anywhere. Take action to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and neighborhood. Organize a neighborhood clean up day to pick up containers from vacant lots and parks and to encourage people to keep their yards free of standing water. Mosquitoes don't care about fences, so it's important to remove areas of standing water throughout the neighborhood.

Need more information?
· WNV and personal protection: MDPH, Division of Epidemiology and Immunization at 617-983-6800 or online at www.mass.gov/dph. You may also contact your local board of health (listed in the telephone directory under “government”).

· Mosquito control in your city or town: Mosquito control in Massachusetts is conducted through nine mosquito control districts. The State Reclamation and Mosquito Control Board (SRMCB) oversees all nine districts. Contact information for each district can be found online at www.mass.gov/agr/mosquito/districts.htm. You may also contact the SRMCB within the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources at 617-626-1777 or your local board of health.

· Health effects of pesticides: MDPH, Center for Environmental Health at 617-624-5757

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This post is taken directly from the MA DPH West Nile Virus Factsheet

H1N1 (Swine Flu) Update for May 26th

2009-05-26T15:23:00.002-04:00

Since it's last update on Friday, May 22nd, DPH has confirmed 66 additional H1N1 influenza (swine flu) cases in Massachusetts. This brings the confirmed case count to 350. Seven of the newly confirmed cases were hospitalized. The total number of hospitalizations is 27.

As the number of cases in Massachusetts continues to increase, the focus on individual case counts becomes less important than examining overall trends. Therefore last week, DPH shifted away from listing individual cases of confirmed H1N1, and began listing aggregate cases by county. DPH will also provide data on age distribution of cases and an aggregate count of hospitalizations in the state.

Please note that DPH continues to work closely with health care providers and local public health departments on community level prevention activities.

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.

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.

For more information on H1N1 flu (swine flu) please visit www.mass.gov/dph.

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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.

Unnatural Causes: Thank You To All!

2009-05-20T10:08:00.005-04:00

The Town of Amherst Public Health Department would like to extend a sincere thank you to the community, the Select Board, Town Manager Larry Shaffer, Town Meeting members, Dr. Barbara J. Love, as well as Amherst Cinema and Amherst Coffee for your active support in our May 19th screening of the film, Unnatural Causes.

A special thank you to the members of our community who attended the screening, spoke from their hearts, and shared their ideas and feedback regarding issues of race, socioeconomics, and health disparities in our town.

Our invitation is still open to those that are interested in hosting a Community Dialogue in your neighborhood surrounding the many important issues addressed in Unnatural Causes. Please feel free to contact us at 259-3077, or health@amherstma.gov.

H1N1 Update from DPH

2009-05-19T08:45:00.001-04:00

DPH today confirmed 4 additional H1N1 influenza (swine flu) cases in Massachusetts. This brings the confirmed case count to 171. None of the newly confirmed cases were hospitalized.
The total number of hospitalizations remains 13. However, the total number of hospitalizations is likely to fluctuate over the next few days as records are updated to reflect the new CDC definition of “hospitalizations.” The new definition includes only those cases that were hospitalized for longer than 24 hours.

As the number of cases in Massachusetts continues to increase, the focus on individual case counts becomes less important than examining overall trends. Therefore yesterday, DPH shifted away from listing individual cases of confirmed H1N1, and began listing aggregate cases by county. DPH will also provide data on age distribution of cases and an aggregate count of hospitalizations in the state.

Please note that DPH continues to work closely with health care providers and local public health departments on community level prevention activities.

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.

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.

For more information on H1N1 flu (swine flu) please visit www.mass.gov/dph.
Download information on cases for 5-19-09.

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This post originally published on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations.

Unnatural Causes: A Film Screening and Community Dialogue

2009-05-18T06:51:00.000-04:00

As part of its work on Social Justice and Health Equity, The Town of Amherst and the
The Town of Amherst Department of Public Health is extending a special invitation to: Town Meeting and Select Board members; Amherst Residents, and all interested people to a screening and discussion of:

UNNATURAL CAUSES: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?

Date: Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Time: 5:00—7:00
Place: Amherst Cinema

The screening will include a forum—Implications of inequality and health for the Amherst community: A dialogue among participants—facilitated by Dr. J. Love and introductions by Amherst Public Health Director, Epi Bodhi.

Light refreshments will we be served at the theater prior to the screening.

The film will be followed by a reception at Amherst Coffee.

For more information, please visit our blog
http://amhersthealth.blogspot.com/.

You can also view the film's PBS website by clicking here.

Our thanks to Amherst Cinema and Amherst Coffee for your community support!

Massachusetts Approves Calorie Labeling Measure for Major Chain Restaurants

2009-05-15T04:39:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE BY MA DPH---In a move to provide millions of Massachusetts consumers with important health information, the Massachusetts Public Health Council today approved rules requiring major chain restaurants to provide calorie information for the food that they sell.

Food establishments with 20 or more locations in Massachusetts will be required to provide that information at the point of purchase ― either on the menu board or on the restaurant’s menu.

The new rules, which will take effect in November 2010, will cover approximately 50 chain restaurant companies, representing more than 5,000 locations in Massachusetts.1 An 18-month implementation timeline will allow local health departments and the industry the opportunity to familiarize themselves and prepare for the new regulation.

The measure is similar to laws passed recently in New York City and in California, and covers many of the same food establishments that have had to comply with calorie labeling requirements in those major restaurant markets.

“This is a major step in the right direction in fighting the obesity epidemic in our state,” said Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner John Auerbach. “With more than half of our adult population and one-third of our middle and high school students either overweight or obese, we need to do more to address this problem. We know that providing this information will help our residents make more informed choices,” Commissioner Auerbach added.

Health regulations like the one passed today are popular with consumers. A study conducted in February 2009, gauging reaction to New York City’s calorie labeling law, showed that of those who visited restaurants with posted information, 89% considered it a positive change — and 82% report that nutritional information on menus had made an impact of their ordering.

The measure adopted today is part of Mass In Motion, a wide-ranging statewide initiative to promote a range of wellness activities for Massachusetts residents, businesses and communities. Last month, the Public Health Council also passed regulations allowing for Body Mass Index measurements for all school children in Massachusetts.

Additionally, health officials will soon announce grants for communities to establish wellness initiatives at the local level. These efforts, combined with an expanded state-sponsored Workplace Wellness program and an interactive web site (www.mass.gov/MassInMotion), represent the most comprehensive effort to date to deal with the serious problem of overweight and obesity in the Commonwealth.

The new regulation underwent a thorough public review process that included two public hearings and the submission of comments from more than 100 individuals and groups. For more information on the new rules, visit www.mass.gov/dph and click on “Regulations and Policies.

To learn more about Mass In Motion, visit www.mass.gov/MassInMotion.

H1N1 Virus Update, 5/12/09

2009-05-12T09:46:00.005-04:00

As of today, the MA Department of Public Health reports 107 confirmed cases of H1N1 virus (Swine Flu) in Massachusetts, with 141 in New England and 3,009 in 45 states. The number of reported deaths remains at 3 nationwide.

No other changes have been reported. The CDC, DPH and other agencies worlwide remain vigilant in terms of tracking the situation, and no changes have been made to the recommendations regarding isolation, treatment, testing or surveillance.

As always, please feel free to call the Amherst Health Department at 259-3077 with questions, or visit the CDC or DPH websites.

H1N1 Flu Update, May 11th, 10am

2009-05-11T10:11:00.004-04:00

As of this writing, 88 cases of the H1N1 virus have been confirmed in Massachusetts, with no additional cases identified at Amherst College, or within the town itself. The 2 infected students at Amherst College have responded very well to treatment and are expected to recover fully, and health officials at Amherst College report a significant decline in reports of flu-like illness on campus.

Nationwide, there are currently 2532 cases in 44 states, with only 3 reported deaths. Officials do expect the outbreak to continue to expand, and an increase in positive cases and deaths is also expected at this time.

Frequent updates from the MA Department of Public Health are assisting the Amherst Public Health Department in staying abreast of developments within the Commonwealth and beyond.

The Health Department is also in frequent contact with area colleges and the university in order to track developments within the academic community. The nurses and providers at all of the area institutions of higher learning are doing an excellent job of caring for their students and staff while keeping the town up to date on current conditions on campus.

Further updates from MA DPH are expected later today.

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.
Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu.

Please call the Amherst Public Health Department at 413-259-3077 for more information.

A Message for Concerned Parents

2009-05-07T08:34:00.001-04:00

By Lauren Smith, MD: Pediatrician and Medical Director for the MA Department of Public Health.

As parents, we want to do everything we can to protect our kids, especially when we are dealing with something new. As a parent of 3 school-aged kids, I understand your concern. But we don’t think that parents need to keep their kids home from school- even if that school has a confirmed a case of H1N1 Flu.

There are a couple of reasons for this:

1) Whether or not there is a confirmed case in your community or in your school, it is most likely there. You should assume that you could be exposed to this new flu at school, at work or at the grocery store (in other words, anywhere you go). So, it is really important to take common sense precautions to protect yourself. That means washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water, or using an alcohol based hand-sanitizer, and staying away from people who are coughing or sneezing.

You can also help ensure that you don’t spread an illness to others by covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue, or cough into your sleeve if you don’t have one.

Take this opportunity to reinforce both of these messages with your kids. Teach them how to keep themselves from getting sick, and how not to spread disease to others when they do get sick- whether it’s a cold, the flu or some other illness.

2) Another reason we don’t feel it’s necessary to close schools, even with a confirmed case of H1N1, is that it doesn’t seem to be any more severe than a regular seasonal flu. We don’t close schools down for seasonal flu, so we it wouldn’t make sense to close them now.

Having said that, we have been, and will continue to, closely monitor the situation in coordination with schools. If the number of absences starts to grow, we will work with individual school districts to reassess the situation.

And one last important note, some children have significant underlying medical conditions that put them at increased risk for any flu – seasonal or swine. It makes sense for parents in this situation to talk to their child’s doctor about what is best for their child, just as they do when regular flu season starts. I want to reinforce that we think it is safe for kids to go to school just like they would during flu season, but ultimately, it’s a parent’s decision. If you have questions, you should consult your child’s doctor so you can have the information you need to do what you feel is best for your child.

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This post originally appeared on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.

Swine Flu Update, 5/5/09

2009-05-05T15:46:00.001-04:00

Last night, it was confirmed that the two Amherst College students whose flu culture samples were sent to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for testing did, in fact, test positive for the H1N1 flu virus. The students, and their classmates who have also been sick, are recovering and doing well.

The Amherst Public Health Department continues to work closely with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and the CDC in monitoring the situation locally and nationally. “So far, the severity of illness we’re seeing in this country is similar to what we’re seeing with seasonal flu," said Dr. Richard Besser, Acting Director of the CDC. “While we’re not out of the woods, we are seeing some encouraging signs.”

Given the relatively mild course the disease has demonstrated thus far, the CDC is now advising that individuals with mild illness stay at home to recover. However, anyone with concerns is encouraged to contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

Amherst Public Health Director Epi Bodhi advises residents to continue to take the following precautions:

wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands;
if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.

For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph/swineflu

For more information, contact Epi Bodhi at 259-3077 or visit the Amherst Health Department blog: amhersthealth.blogspot.com.

Swine Flu Update, Monday May 4th

2009-05-04T09:05:00.004-04:00

As of this morning, the influenza cases at Amherst College are still undergoing testing at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. Amherst officials are hoping to receive confirmation of the status of these tests early this week. Please watch this blog or the town's main website for updates. You will also find links to the CDC's downloadable Swine Flu Factsheet on the town website.

So far, there are 7 confirmed cases of H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) in Massachusetts, and 226 cases in the entire United States, with only one confirmed death.

For the time being, please practice basic precautions such as handwashing, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing, and avoiding public places when you are ill. If you have symptoms of flu such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches or fatigue, please call your medical provider.

If you have general questions about swine flu, please call 211 to reach the MA Department of Public Health's Swine Flu Hotline which operates 24 hours per day. As always, please feel free to call the Amherst Health Department at 259-3077.

Suspected Swine Flu at Amherst College Being Tested by CDC

2009-05-01T20:18:00.002-04:00

A number of students at Amherst College have been tested for influenza after demonstrating the symptoms associated with the disease. Two of the test results have been further tested by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH). Those samples have been sent to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for definitive testing for swine flu. The Town of Amherst has been advised by MDPH that the CDC test results are expected by Saturday, May 2, 2009.

Epi Bodhi, Director of the Amherst Public Health Department cautioned, “This development is cause for concern, but not for alarm. Not all flu symptoms are the result of swine flu. However, I would recommend that precautions be taken.”

Those precautions are as follows:

• Avoid hugging, holding, kissing or shaking hands with anyone who has a cold or the flu.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes.
• Clean items that are touched often such as telephones and door handles.
• If you get sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.
• Severe symptoms should prompt you to contact your health care provider.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing, or sneeze into the crook of your elbow if no tissue is available.

For information, please see the Fact Sheet on the Town of Amherst web site www.amherstma.gov, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) web site at www.mass.gov/dph/flu, or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) web site at www.cdc.gov/swineflu.

Further, general information on this topic may be obtained by calling the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) 24 hours per day by dialing 211.

211 Swine Flu Information Line Operational In MA

2009-04-30T10:31:00.004-04:00

As of April 29th, a 24-hour Swine Flu Information Line is now operational throughout Massachusetts. Provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the 211 line is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Trained staff will answer your questions about swine flu or refer you to other resources if necessary.

To reach the information line, simply dial 211 from any telephone in Massachusetts. Translators are available for dozens of languages.

As always, please feel free to call the Amherst Public Health Department at 413-259-3007 with questions, comments or concerns. The Health Department is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Swine Flu: Late Update, 4/29/09

2009-04-29T17:02:00.002-04:00

BOSTON — The Patrick Administration today announced the first confirmed cases of swine influenza in Massachusetts. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), the patients, two school-age residents of Middlesex County, are considered to have a mild case of the disease and are expected to make a complete recovery. Neither child attended school at any point during their illness, and their parents did not go to work during that time. Massachusetts is the sixth state to have confirmed cases of swine flu; there are now a total of 66 confirmed cases in the United States.

“Fortunately, the patients are not hospitalized and are expected to fully recover,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with our health officials and others to limit exposure.”

DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms — especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any other area which has confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.

“We continue to work closely with partners at the local, state and federal level to monitor the spread of swine flu and act quickly to slow its spread,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “All Massachusetts residents can play an absolutely vital role in our efforts by taking simple, common-sense precautions to keep from getting and spreading the flu.”

These precautions include:

1) wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;

2) cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands;

3) if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them

At the federal level, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states including Massachusetts prepare and respond
to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies if needed.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.

For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph/swineflu.

Swine Flu Update, 4/29/09

2009-04-29T08:41:00.002-04:00

From the MA Department of Public Health:

State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.

As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.

“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”

DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.

Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.

For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.

Swine Flu and the Safety of Pork Products

2009-04-28T10:48:00.004-04:00

Update By Secretary Of Agriculture Vilsack Regarding USDA Outreach Efforts Regarding Swine Influenza A (H1N1)

April 27, 2009

"As promised, I wanted to keep you up to date on our outreach efforts.

First, let me say again to consumers, there is no evidence at this time that U.S. swine have been infected with this virus.

Second, I want to reiterate the same message to our trading partners - our pork and pork products are safe. The discovery of this virus in humans is not a basis for restricting imports of commercially produced U.S. pork and pork products. Any trade restrictions would be inconsistent with World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) guidelines. USDA is working closely with the U.S. Trade Representative's office on these issues.

And third, I am reminding the pork industry as well as owners of pigs about being consistent and thorough in their practices to prevent the introduction or spread of disease.

USDA already has in place, and did so before the last week's events, a surveillance system to monitor animal health. I asked USDA to reach out to agriculture officials in every state to affirm that they have no signs of this virus type in their state's swine herd. As of this morning, no cases have been reported.

It is important to remember that not only have there been no reports of this virus in swine, according to scientists at USDA, swine flu viruses are not transmitted by food so a person cannot get swine flu from eating pork or pork products. In fact, cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills all viruses and other foodborne pathogens. Eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products is safe.

USDA will continue to work with other government agencies to monitor the situation and keep the public informed."

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This statement was originally published on the USDA website. Please click here to access the original version.

Swine Flu Update

2009-04-28T08:45:00.005-04:00

The Amherst Public Health Department would like residents, business owners, and town employees to know that we are monitoring the current swine flu outbreak very closely and will keep the public informed of changes and new alerts as they happen.

Yesterday, Health Department staff participated in a conference call with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in which we were given updates on the current situation, as well as the response being mounted by the state. We are confident that DPH, the CDC, and other players in the public health arena are responding appropriately and swiftly, and we are in frequent contact with state officials as they disseminate new information to local boards of health, schools, and municipal governments.

While this is not a time for panic, it is indeed a time for vigilance and circumspectful caution, and we encourage residents, visitors and business owners to practice the same precautions that would be in place during the regular flu season. Avoid holding, hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with anyone who has a cold or the flu. Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes without first washing your hands. Also avoid touching things like doorknobs, door handles, faucets and telephones that infected individuals might also use. Remember, when coughing or sneezing, do so into your sleeve, elbow or a tissue, and wash your hands regularly with warm soap and water. Antibacterial soap is not necessary---simple hand soap, warm water and friction are best.

If you or someone you know exhibits signs of flu (fever, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, headache, body aches, or other symptoms), do not go to work, school or public recreational activities. Call your health care provider, describe your symptoms, and stay home for at least 7 days to rest and keep hydrated. If your fever rises or symptoms worsen, cover your nose and mouth with a mask and seek attention at a doctor's office or emergency room.

Children, the elderly and the chronically ill can be especially vulnerable to flu-like illnesses, so take extra precautions with these family members. If any ill person develops chest pain, purple or blue discoloration of the lips, vomiting, signs of dehydration (like dizziness, absence of urination, or lack of tears in infants), or seizures, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information about swine flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's swine flu website at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/, or call the Health Department at 259-3077.

Swine Flu Update From MA DPH

2009-04-27T10:37:00.004-04:00

The following is a copy of the most recent press release from the MA Department of Public Health regarding recent outbreaks of swine flu. Please call the Health Department at 259-3077 for more information, or stay tuned to this blog for updates.

BOSTON – State health officials continue to work closely with partners at the federal, state and local level to respond to the swine flu outbreak in the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has declared the outbreak of swine flu a public health emergency.
As part of that declaration, federal officials have begun shipment of significant quantities of materials to help states prepare and respond to the spread of swine flu. These materials include antiviral medications for treatment of individuals who are sick, along with other medical equipment and supplies that may be needed if the current situation changes. Massachusetts will begin receiving initial quantities of these materials in the coming days.

“This is understandably a concerning time for Massachusetts residents who have heard so much about swine flu over the past couple of days,” said DPH Commissioner John Auerbach. “However, I want to assure everyone that our team is working overtime on this matter and I am confident that we are taking all necessary precautions to protect the people of the Commonwealth.”

DPH officials continue to take steps to increase surveillance of influenza-like illness in Massachusetts, asking health care providers and hospital emergency departments to be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms -- especially in people who have recently traveled to Mexico or any of the U.S. states which have confirmed cases. If a provider suspects a patient may be infected with swine flu, DPH requests that they perform and submit a swab test for laboratory testing.

Even though no cases have been identified in Massachusetts, there are steps that everyone can take to prevent getting or spreading any type of influenza: wash your hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer; cough or sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow instead of into your hands; and if you’re sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Outbreaks of swine flu happen regularly in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu happen in people who are around pigs but it’s possible for swine flu viruses to spread from person to person as well. Swine flu is not transmitted by food and you cannot get swine flu by eating pork products.

For general information on swine flu and the status of the nationwide outbreak, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information on the Massachusetts response, and how to care for someone at home who has the flu, please visit www.mass.gov/dph.

Prediabetes: A Window of Opportunity

2009-04-24T13:21:00.000-04:00

By: Terri Mendoza, Director of the Diabetes Prevention and Control Program, MA Department of Public Health

A touch of sugar? Borderline diabetes? Has your doctor told you that you have either of these? If so, you most likely have prediabetes. But there’s good news-- by making just a few changes now, you can delay or even prevent yourself from getting diabetes in the future.

Here’s what you need to know:

What is prediabetes?
It is when the level of sugar in your blood is high, but not high enough to be considered diabetes.

Why should I worry about prediabetes?
People with prediabetes are more likely to develop diabetes within 10 years and are more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

How do I know if I have prediabetes?
People with prediabetes usually have no symptoms. The only way to tell if you have prediabetes is by a blood test. If you are 45 years or older, you should be tested for prediabetes. If you are under age 45, are overweight or obese AND you have one of the following risk factors, ask your doctor to check for prediabetes:

Are physically active less than three times a week

Have high blood pressure

Have abnormal cholesterol levels (an HDL or “good” cholesterol <35>250 mg/dL)

Are Latino, African-American, Native American, Asian or Pacific Islander

Have a parent, brother or sister with diabetes

Gave birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds or had gestational diabetes (diabetes that first appeared during pregnancy but may have gone away after your baby was born)

Have had high blood sugars in the past

Have certain health conditions, like blood vessel problems, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or acanthosis nigricans

Here’s What You Can Do About It:

Watch your weight:
If you are overweight, losing just 5 to 7% of your current body weight can help. That means that if you weigh 200 pounds, losing just 10 to 14 pounds can help prevent diabetes. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains will help you lose those pounds safely.

Get moving:
Being physically active for 150 minutes a week, or 30 minutes a day 5 days of the week, can also help you lose weight and keep you healthy. Now that milder spring weather is coming our way, it will feel great to go for a walk, ride a bike, play ball, swim, roller skate…you name it!

Keep checking:
It’s important to keep tabs on your blood sugar levels. If you have prediabetes, ask your doctor to check your blood sugar every year to make sure it’s not going up.

For more information on how to prevent diabetes, visit Small Steps, Big Rewards. And for free educational materials, visit the Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse or call 1-800-952-6637.

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This article was originally published on the MA Department of Public Health blog, Commonwealth Conversations.

Protect Yourself & the People You Love from Common STDs

2009-04-23T17:17:00.002-04:00

There are a lot of things you can get out of an intimate relationship – human connection, understanding, love. But one thing you don’t want to get is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). STDs are caused by infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact and can be passed through oral, vaginal or anal sex. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 19 million new STD infections occur each year in the United States – almost half of them among young people 15-24 years of age. In addition to youth, women and minorities are also severely affected. STDs are the most commonly reported infectious diseases in the United States. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most common reportable STDs and can result in infertility in women.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is caused by the bacteria, Chlamydia trachomatis. Chlamydia is known as a "silent" disease because about three quarters of infected women and about half of infected men have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they usually appear within 1 to 3 weeks after exposure. Women who have symptoms might have an abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. Men with signs or symptoms might have a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating. If untreated, chlamydial infections can progress to serious reproductive and other health problems with both short-term and long-term consequences. In women, untreated infection can spread into the uterus or fallopian tubes and cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which happens in up to 40 percent of women with untreated chlamydia. Complications among men are rare. Chlamydia can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. A single dose of azithromycin or a week of doxycycline (twice daily) are the most commonly used treatments.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacteria that can grow and multiply easily in the warm, moist areas of the reproductive tract, including the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes in women, and in the urethra in women and men. The bacterium can also grow in the mouth, throat, eyes, and anus. Ejaculation does not have to occur for gonorrhea to be transmitted or acquired. Symptoms and signs, which can take anywhere from two to 30 days to appear, include a burning sensation when urinating, or a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. Sometimes men with gonorrhea get painful or swollen testicles. In women, the symptoms of gonorrhea are often mild, but most women who are infected have no symptoms. Several antibiotics can successfully cure gonorrhea in adolescents and adults. However, drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea are increasing in many areas of the world, including the United States, and successful treatment of gonorrhea is becoming more difficult. Because many people with gonorrhea also have chlamydia, antibiotics for both infections are usually given together.

Preventing STD Infections

STD Screening

CDC recommends annual Chlamydia screening for all sexually active women under age 26, as well as older women with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners

CDC also supports U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations to screen high risk, sexually active women for gonorrhea

Immunization

Vaccines are available for the prevention of two commonly sexually transmitted viral infections: hepatitis B and several common strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)

Abstinence and Reduction of Number of Sex Partners

The most reliable ways to avoid infection with an STD are to abstain from sex (i.e. oral, vaginal or anal sex) or to be in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.

Correct and Consistent Use of Condoms

Consistent and correct use of the male latex condom reduces the risk of STD infection.

For more information on STDs, please visit the web site at www.cdc.gov/std or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.

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This article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Breastfeeding--Anywhere, Anytime

2009-04-17T01:49:00.001-04:00

By: Rachel Colchamiro, Acting Director of Nutrition Services and the Breast Feeding Coordinator for the Masscausetts WIC Program, MA Department of Public Health

When it comes to feeding babies…breast is best! Doctors say breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition AND protection against illness for the vast majority of babies and their mothers. It’s no wonder more and more moms are choosing to breastfeed their babies.

Breastfeeding is a normal way of feeding babies…but we’re not always used to seeing moms feeding their babies when they’re out and about—whether at the park, a restaurant or at the mall. Some people even think that it’s illegal to breastfeed in public.

So IS it legal in Massachusetts to breastfeed in public?

Finally we can say yes! A mother is allowed to breastfeed her baby in any location (as long as it’s a place she’s allowed to be anyway). This month, Massachusetts became the 48th state to enact a law confirming a mother's right to breastfeed in public—and protecting her from being prosecuted for indecent exposure or lewd conduct.

So, Massachusetts nursing moms, you no longer have to hide in the shadows of public restrooms to breastfeed your infant. It is your right to feed your baby anywhere, anytime. If you are a new mom…and are feeling a little self-conscious about nursing public, these tips might help:

Practice makes perfect! Before you start to breastfeed in a public area, you may want to practice in front of a mirror to see what others will see.
Sitting near a wall, corner, or at a booth in restaurants will provide more privacy for you and your infant.
Bring along a shawl or small blanket if you feel more comfortable with a little extra coverage.
Learn to recognize your baby’s pre-nursing cues. It’s easier to get a baby latched on discreetly when he or she is not crying and calling attention to you.

For those of you who have friends or family members who breastfeed…support them in exercising their right to feed their babies and congratulate them on a job well done!
For more information or support, check out the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition, click on ZipMilk, or visit ProMoM.

If you have tips for new moms on how to breastfeed with ease in public, we would love to hear from you!

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This post has been republished with the kind permission of the MA Department of Public Health, and was originally published on their public health blog, Commonwealth Conversations.

Food Stamp Benefits Are Increasing

2009-04-16T08:57:00.000-04:00

Due to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (otherwise known as the Economic Stimulus Package), the amount of money being dispersed to those citizens who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits---formerly known as Food Stamps---will increase beginning this month.

The minimum benefit will be increased from $14 to $16 per month, although some households will receive more based on their income status. For example, a household with 3 people who now receive $250 per month will see their monthly amount increased to $313. Due to this increase, no cost of living adjustments will be made in the immediate future.

To find out how much money is in your account, please call 1-800-997-2555.

Making Your Home Cleaner, Greener and Safer

2009-04-15T01:15:00.001-04:00

We would like to share with you an excellent article entitled "The 10 Easiest Ways to Make Your Home Greener, Cleaner and Safer." The article reviews ways to accomplish this goal, including:

Stopping dirt at the door
Reducing, reusing and recycling
Cleaning early and often
Becoming a savvy consumer
Going fragrance-free
Making your own cleaning products
Using natural ventilation
Keeping drains clean and clear
Hosting a "green cleaning" party
Hiring a professional

The article is well worth reading and sharing with friends and family. Please feel free to pass on a link to anyone who might be interested.

Here's to healthy homes!

The Healthiest Nation in One Generation

2009-04-14T09:53:00.000-04:00

We would like to take this opportunity to share a link to a site created by the American Public Health Association which is encouraging Americans to make our country the healthiest in the world within one generation. Contrary to popular belief, the United States lags far behind most other industrialized nations in numerous measurements of health and well-being, and it will take concerted effort to turn those numbers around.

Were you aware that the U.S. ranks 46th in terms of life expectancy in the world---far behind Europe, Japan, Jordan, and South Korea?

How is it that a baby born in the United States is more likely to die before his or her first birthday than a child in any other industrialized nation in the world?

Why is almost 1 out of every 20 adults in Washington, DC---the nation's capital---HIV-positive?
Why do more than 10 million American children lack health insurance?

How does one American under the age of 29 contract HIV every minute?

These are questions of enormous import and gravity, and even as I write this post, the city of Worcester is planning to lay off most of its public health nurses, dismantling the public health infrastructure of the second largest city in Massachusetts.

The Amherst Public Health Department's mission is to to promote the health and well-being of our community with special emphasis on eliminating health disparities. We fulfill this mission through our core functions: assessment, assurance, promotion, and policy development, and we will continue to do so, no matter the economic climate. Please let us know how we can be of service to you, and thank you for continuing to visit our blog.

Pistachio Recall Expanded

2009-04-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continue to investigate Salmonella contamination in pistachios and
pistachio products. On April 6, 2009, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc., Terra Bella, Calif., voluntarily expanded its recall.

FDA encourages consumers to visit the agency's Web page on Pistachio Product Recalls at www.fda.gov/pistachios/. This Web page provides the latest consumer advice, questions and answers about Salmonella, a listing of product recalls, and a searchable database of affected products.

The contamination in pistachio products involves multiple strains of Salmonella, a type of bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

Food Insecurity in Amherst

2009-04-10T00:08:00.000-04:00

Do you know someone who is hungry, who does not have enough money for food? "Food insecurity" is real, even here in Amherst, and there are resources for those in need.

The Amherst Survival Center is an excellent resource, offering a free hot lunch every weekday from noon to 1:00, and the food pantry is open during lunch hours.

Project Bread's FoodSource Hotline is one way for those in need of assistance to access food resources, including:

Food Stamps
Summer meal sites
School breakfast and lunch programs
Emergency food programs
Low-cost food resources

Please call Project Bread at 1-800-645-8333 or visit their website, http://gettingfoodstamps.org/

Please Stay Tuned

2009-04-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse for the Amherst Health Department, will be attending an Emergency Preparedness Summit in Dallas, Texas from April 3rd through April 8th in order to better assist the town in being prepared for public health emergencies and other disasters. This blog will most likely not be updated until Keith's return. Thank you for your patience and please check the blog again after April 8th!

If you need immediate assistance, please call the Amherst Health Department at 413-259-3077.

For questions related to the pistachio recall, please visit the FDA's Pistachio Recall Website by clicking here.

Walgreens to Provide Free Medical Care to the Unemployed

2009-04-02T08:25:00.005-04:00

Walgreens Pharmacy will soon begin offering free medical care to individuals who can show proof of unemployment and lack of health insurance. Those eligible for free care through the new program will need to present an unemployment pay stub or other official proof of a recent job loss. Spouses and children will also be eligible for the same services.

The Walgreens program will run through the end of 2009, and will be available in 35 markets around the U.S., most likely in major cities. The clinics are seen as a place for the unemployed and their families to receive routine walk-in care for minor ailments such as colds, minor injuries, allergies, etc.

It is uncertain if there will be a free Walgreens clinic within driving distance of Amherst. The Health Department will research this issue and post the details here on our blog. Any Amherst residents in need of free health care can always call the Health Department at 259-3077 for referrals to local free clinics, or call the Amherst Survival Center at 549-3968.

Kraft Foods Recalls Pistachio Products

2009-04-01T09:53:00.001-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --Northfield, IL

Kraft Foods announced today a voluntary recall in the United States of Planters and Back to
Nature products containing pistachio nuts that have the potential to be contaminated with the Salmonella organism. This possible contamination is not connected with the recent outbreak associated with peanuts.

The company is recalling all products containing pistachios supplied by Setton Farms after September 1, 2008. Setton Farms issued a recall late yesterday. A list of affected products and code dates is available on kraftfoodscompany.com. Consumers should not eat these products and discard any products they may have. Consumers can contact the company at 1-866-538-8280 with any questions.

There have been no cases of Salmonellosis reported to date in connection with these products and the company is issuing this recall as a precaution. These products were distributed to retail stores nationwide.

Salmonella 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.

Pistachio Recall Update

2009-04-01T08:22:00.003-04:00

By now, most Americans have heard the news that pistachios tainted with Salmonella have been traced to a wholesale processor (Setton Pistachio) in California. Like the recent peanut butter recall (also related to Salmonella contamination), the recall began with a single processing plant that distributed peanut products nationwide.

While hundreds of Americans were sickened by contaminated peanut products over the last several months, there have so far been no reported cases of pistachio-related Salmonella poisoning in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration is acting swiftly to contain the situation before it expands in a manner similar to the recent peanut butter scare, and there is little doubt that the California legislature may act to tighten food safety regulations.

To read how the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is responding to the situation, please click here. The Amherst Health Department will be monitoring this situation closely, and pertinent updates or recall information will be posted promptly on this blog.

Since the manufacturer in question distributes its products nationwide, it is fairly certain that a significant recall process will begin soon. In the meantime, the FDA is recommending that consumers avoid pistachio products until further details come to light, and their newly-created Pistachio Product Recall Website can be found by clicking here. For those consumers who use Twitter, FDA Recalls can be followed by clicking here.

Please visit these sites often, return to this blog, or call the Health Department at 259-3077 for more information.

Nationwide Recall of Nantucket Blend Trail Mix

2009-03-31T14:12:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- MADISON, WI (March 25, 2009)

Back to Nature Foods Company announced today a voluntary recall in the United States of its Nantucket Blend trail mix containing pistachio nuts that may have the potential to be contaminated with the Salmonella organism. This possible contamination is not connected with the recent outbreak associated with peanuts or peanut butter.

The following products are being recalled and consumers should not eat them:

**Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 28 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-00020 and a “best by” date between 08 20 09 and 12 12 09.

**Back to Nature Nantucket Blend trail mix, 10 oz. bag, UPC code 59283-31039 and a “best by” date between 11 04 09 and 12 12 09.

Consumers can find the “best by” date on the back of the package and should discard any product they have. Consumers can contact the company at 1-866-538-8280 with any questions.

There have been no cases of Salmonellosis reported to date in connection with these products and the company is issuing this recall as a precaution. These products were distributed to retail stores nationwide.

Salmonella 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.

FDA Alerts Consumers to Pistachio Recall

2009-03-31T08:51:00.004-04:00

For Immediate Release by the FDA:

The FDA and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) are investigating Salmonella contamination in pistachio products sold by Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Inc, Calif. The company has stopped all distribution of processed pistachios and will issue a voluntary recall involving approximately 1 million pounds of its products. Because the pistachios were used as ingredients in a variety of foods, it is likely this recall will impact many products. In addition, the investigation at the company is ongoing and may lead to additional pistachio product recalls.

The contamination involves multiple strains of Salmonella. Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Thus far, several illnesses have been reported by consumers that may be associated with the pistachios. It is not yet known whether any of the Salmonella strains found in the pistachio products are linked to an outbreak. The FDA is conducting genetic testing of the samples to pursue all links.

FDA is working closely with the pistachio industry and recommends that consumers avoid eating pistachio products until further information is available about the scope of affected products.

FDA will provide a searchable database of affected products at http://www.fda.gov/ and will continue to update the public.

FDA first learned of the problem on March 24, when it was informed by Kraft Foods that its Back To Nature Trail Mix was found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Kraft had identified the source of the contamination to be pistachios from Setton and conducted a recall.

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The original version of this press release can be found here.

Statement on GI Illnesses at Babson College

2009-03-30T11:59:00.003-04:00

By: Tom Lyons, MA Department of Public Health

Staff from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health are assisting the Town of Wellesley Health Department, and officials from Babson College with a large outbreak of gastrointestinal illness on that campus. Since Wednesday, March 25, about 100 students and staff have experienced nausea and vomiting and diarrhea. We believe that these illnesses are likely caused by noroviruses -- a group of particularly strong viruses that can cause such signs and symptoms.
Because noroviruses are so easily spread person-to-person, congregate living facilities like college campuses are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks.

Babson College is taking all necessary steps to control this outbreak, including thorough environmental cleaning and providing prevention information to the campus community. Last month DPH issued a health advisory about a rise in gastrointestinal illnesses across the state.

Everyone can reduce their chances of coming in contact with noroviruses by following these simple tips:

Frequently wash your hands, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers and before eating or preparing food.

Carefully wash fruits and vegetables, and steam oysters before eating them.

Thoroughly clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces immediately after an episode of illness by using bleach-based household cleaner.

Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with virus after an episode of illness (use hot water and soap).

Flush any vomit or stool down the toilet and make sure that the surrounding area is kept clean.

Persons who are infected with norovirus should not prepare food while they have symptoms and for 3 days after they recover from their illness.

For a fact sheet on norovirus and how to prevent infection click here.

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This blog post was originally posted on the MA DPH blog, Commonwealth Conversations, and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.

Including Public Health in National Health Care Reform

2009-03-27T11:52:00.000-04:00

By: Commissioner John Auerbach, Department of Public Health

In the last two weeks I had the opportunity to interact with members of the Obama Administration and Congress - as both branches of government engage in preparations for a national plan for health reform.

Given the extraordinary success of Massachusetts in expanding health insurance coverage to almost 98% of the population, it is not surprising that there is a good deal of interest in how it was done here. The focus of my discussions was on a particular aspect of health reform - the role of public health.

Under Governor Patrick and Secretary Bigby, and with the strong support of the Legislature, public health has been an integral part of health reform and in a way that has been of particular interest to the federal officials. In this blog entry I will mention just one of the ways it is related.

The first and most obvious is the importance of prevention or, as it is sometimes characterized, the promotion of wellness. This is equally important to those who are healthy and those who have been diagnosed with a disease, such as diabetes. We know that most health care costs are focused on the treatment of chronic disease. Health care reform should be all about improving the health status of our residents. And for it to be sustainable, we have to pay attention to controlling costs. A significant percentage of all health care expenditures are a result of diabetes. And, we know that certain behaviors - namely eating poorly and not exercising - contribute significantly to the likelihood someone will develop diabetes or another chronic disease.

So in Massachusetts we are developing new approaches to creating conditions that decrease the likelihood of developing diabetes or exacerbating the symptoms if already diagnosed in order the complement the care given with the expanded insurance coverage. Our focus is mainly outside of the doctor's office - on improving meals in the schools, helping employers develop workplace wellness programs, supporting local elected officials in their efforts to encourage walking and biking and access to fresh fruits and vegetables in their cities and towns - just to name a few of the actions steps associated with Mass In Motion.

We also see the importance of linking with physicians and other health care providers who are relaying important messages to the patients. That is why we are working with the Massachusetts Medical Society, the American Academy of Pediatricians and a range of health care organizations and providers on our HealthyMass Diabetes Task Force.

These may all seem like obvious things to do. But the national officials have indicated to us that they need to see how public health complements health care reform in real and concrete ways - or public health's role may be overlooked as the focus intensifies on the doctor-patient interaction and the insurance card. So, I have been delighted to have the chance to make the statement that health care reform must I include a robust and active public health component, not just a focus on access to insurance. Such an approach is key to its ultimate success of improving health while controlling costs.

Let me know what you think. How can we make sure that public health’s role in health care reform is front and center during this historic and important moment?

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This blog post originally published on the MA Department of Public Health Blog, Commonwealth Conversations and is reproduced here with the kind permission of the MA DPH.

CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine

2009-03-26T13:59:00.003-04:00

People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster, a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended today.

CDC recommends a single dose of the zoster vaccine, Zostavax, for adults 60 years of age and older even if they have had a prior episode of shingles. The new full recommendation replaces a provisional recommendation that the CDC made in 2006, after the vaccine was licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a committee of immunization experts who advise CDC on immunization policy.

The recommendation was published in an early release electronic edition of CDC’s Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (MMWR) Recommendations and Reports. The ACIP recommendation becomes CDC policy once it is published in the MMWR.

Researchers found that, overall, in those ages 60 and above the vaccine reduced the occurrence of shingles by about 50 percent. For individuals ages 60-69 it reduced occurrence by 64 percent. The most common side effects in people who received Zostavax were redness, pain and tenderness, swelling at the site of injection, itching and headache.

Over 95 percent of people are infected by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), during their lifetime. The virus causes the common childhood disease chickenpox and then becomes dormant within the nerves. If it reactivates later in life, the result can be shingles. Shingles is characterized by clusters of blisters, which develop on one side of the body in a band-like pattern and can cause severe pain that may last for weeks, months or years. About one in three persons will develop shingles during their lifetimes, resulting in about one million cases of shingles per year.

Chickenpox (also called varicella) is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young infants and adults. Children who have never had chickenpox should get two doses of chickenpox vaccine starting at 12 months of age. The risk of contracting shingles increases with age starting at around 50, and is highest in the elderly. Half of people living to age 85 have had or will get shingles. The risk of experiencing chronic pain also increases with age.

Shingles Facts

Anyone who has had chicken pox can get shingles. That means 95 percent of adults are at risk.
Approximately one-third of the U.S. population will get shingles.
More than half of older adults do not understand the seriousness of shingles and its complications.
Among those who get shingles, more than one-third will develop serious complications. The risk of complications rises after 60 years of age.
Appropriate and immediate treatment of herpes zoster can control acute symptoms and reduce the risk of longer term complications. Starting anti-viral medication within 72 hours of the onset of shingles can reduce the pain and the length of time the outbreak lasts.

For more information about the shingles vaccine, please visit our Website at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/default.htm

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This press release was originally published by the CDC in May of 2008.

Amherst Health Department Rabies Clinic

2009-03-24T09:15:00.003-04:00

All Dogs, Cats and Ferrets living in Massachusetts are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies.

The Rabies Clinic will take place:

DATE: SATURDAY: APRIL 11, 2009
TIME: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
PLACE: HAMPSHIRE VETERINARY HOSPITAL
260 SNELL STREET, AMHERST
COST: $20.00 per Pet

Carol Hepburn, Amherst Animal Welfare officer, will be available for dog licensing. The fee for licensing is payable by check or money order to the Town of Amherst.

For further information and/or questions call:
AMHERST HEALTH DEPARTMENT
259-3077

FDA Uncovers Additional Tainted Weight Loss Products

2009-03-23T08:43:00.002-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expanding, for the second time, its nationwide alert to consumers about tainted weight loss products containing undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients.

The FDA has identified additional weight loss products (Herbal Xenicol, Slimbionic, and Xsvelten) and new undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients (fenproporex, fluoxetine, furosemide, and cetilistat). The current list now includes the following 72 products:

2 Day DietFatloss SlimmingSlim 3 in 1 M18 Royal Diet
2 Day Diet Slim AdvanceGMPSlim 3 in 1 Slim Formula
2x Powerful SlimmingHerbal XenicolSlim Burn
3 Day DietImelda Fat ReducerSlim Express 4 in 1
3 Days FitImelda Perfect SlimSlim Express 360
3x Slimming PowerJM Fat ReducerSlim Fast*
5x Imelda Perfect SlimmingLida DaiDaihuaSlim Tech
7 Day Herbal SlimMeiliSlim Up
7 Days DietMeizitangSlim Waist Formula
7 DietMiaozi MeiMaoQianZiJiaoNangSlim Waistline
7 Diet Day/Night FormulaMiaozi Slim CapsulesSlimbionic
8 Factor DietNatural ModelSliminate
Eight Factor DietPerfect SlimSlimming Formula
21 Double SlimPerfect Slim 5xSomotrim
24 Hours DietPerfect Slim UpStarcaps
999 Fitness EssencePhyto ShapeSuper Fat Burner
BioEmagrecimPowerful SlimSuperslim
Body CreatorProSlim PlusSuper Slimming
Body ShapingReduce WeihgtTrim 2 Plus
Body SlimmingRoyal Slimming FormulaTriple Slim
Cosmo SlimSana PlusVenom Hyperdrive 3.0
Extrim PlusSlim 3 in 1Waist Strength Formula
Extrim Plus 24 Hour ReburnSlim 3 in 1 Extra Slim FormulaXsvelten
Fasting DietSlim 3 in 1 Extra Slim Waist FormulaZhen de Shou

* This product should not be confused with the line of meal replacement and related products that are marketed as conventional foods under the brand name “Slim-Fast®”. The manufacturer of Slim-Fast®, Unilever United States, Inc., maintains that the Slim Fast product which appears on this list is not in any way associated with, sponsored or approved by, or otherwise related in any way to the Slim-Fast® brand of meal replacement and related products.

“These tainted weight loss products pose a great risk to public health because they contain undeclared ingredients and, in some cases, contain prescription drugs in amounts that greatly exceed maximum recommended dosages,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Consumers have no way of knowing that these products contain dangerous drugs that could cause serious consequences to their health.”

On Dec. 22, 2008, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or consume 28 different products marketed for weight loss. On Jan. 8, 2009, the FDA expanded the list of tainted weight loss products to include 41 additional tainted products. The FDA will continue to update this list as warranted.

The products listed above, some of which are marketed as dietary supplements, are promoted and sold on various Web sites and in some retail stores and beauty salons. Some of the products claim to be “natural” or to contain only “herbal” ingredients, but actually contain potentially harmful ingredients not listed on the products' labels or in promotional advertisements. These products have not been approved by the FDA, are illegal, and include the following undeclared
active pharmaceutical ingredients:

fenproporex – a controlled substance not approved for marketing in the United States;
fluoxetine – an antidepressant available by prescription only;
bumetanide – a potent diuretic available by prescription only;
furosemide – a potent diuretic available by prescription only;
rimonabant – a drug not approved for marketing in the United States;
cetilistat – an experimental obesity drug not approved for marketing in the United States;
phenytoin – an anti-seizure medication available by prescription only; and
phenolphthalein – a solution used in chemical experiments and a suspected cancer-causing agent that is not approved for marketing in the United States.

The FDA has inspected a number of companies associated with the sale of these illegal products and is currently seeking product recalls. Based on the FDA’s inspections and the companies’ inadequate responses to recall requests, the FDA may take additional enforcement steps, such as issuing warning letters or initiating seizures, injunctions, or criminal charges.

The FDA advises consumers who have used any products containing these ingredients to stop taking them and consult their health care professional immediately. The FDA also encourages consumers to seek guidance from a health care professional before purchasing weight loss products.

The health risks posed by these products can be very serious and include high blood pressure, seizures, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), palpitations, heart attack, and stroke. Sibutramine, a controlled substance, was found in many of these products at levels much higher than the maximum daily dosage for Meridia, the only FDA-approved drug product containing sibutramine. These higher levels of sibutramine can increase the incidence and severity of these health risks. Fenproporex, another controlled substance, can cause arrhythmia and possible
sudden death.

Health care professionals and consumers should report serious adverse events (side effects) or product quality problems to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail, fax or phone.

Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available at: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm and mail to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
Fax: 800- FDA-0178
Phone: 800- FDA-1088

Information on these products for consumers and health care professionals can be found at: http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/weight_loss_products.htm

To learn more about the FDA’s initiative against unapproved drugs see the FDA’s Compliance Policy Guide at: http://www.fda.gov/cder/Guidance/6911fnl.htm.

Collecting Your Family's Medical History Could Save your Child's Life

2009-03-20T08:28:00.000-04:00

You might not realize that your father’s diabetes or your cousin’s sickle cell disease could affect your child, but this family history information could help save your child’s life.

According to a Pediatrics supplement, “Use of Family History Information in Pediatric Primary Care and Public Health,” that’s not the only family history information that can affect your child’s health or be important to their health care. Along with genes, your family often has similar behaviors, such as exercise habits, and a common culture, such as the foods you eat. You may live in the same area and come into contact with similar environmental factors. Family history includes these factors, which can all affect health.

In addition, a family history can help your child’s doctor make a diagnosis if your child shows signs of a disorder. It can reveal whether your child has an increased risk for a disease and, if so, can help your doctor suggest screening tests. Many genetic disorders first become obvious in childhood, and knowing about a history of a genetic condition can help find and treat the condition early.

You might not think that chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes affect children, but children with a strong family history of these diseases can show signs in childhood.

Having a family history of a disease does not mean that your child will get that disease. However, some children with a family history of chronic diseases can benefit from starting good lifestyle habits, such as exercising and eating healthy, right away.

Ways to Collect Your Child’s Family History

Record the names of your child’s close relatives from both sides of the family. Include conditions each relative has or had and at what age the conditions were first diagnosed.

Use the U.S. Surgeon General’s online tool for collecting family histories, called “My Family Health Portrait.” It is available at https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/.

Discuss family history concerns with your child’s doctor. Gather family history information before seeing the doctor, using “My Family Health Portrait.” Fill out family history forms carefully.

Update your family history regularly and share new information with your child’s doctor. Remember that relatives can be newly diagnosed with conditions between doctor’s visits. This information can help the doctor to determine which tests and screenings are recommended to help you know your child’s health risk.

The best way to learn about your family history is to ask questions. Talk at family gatherings and record your family’s health information—it could make a difference in your child’s life. More information is available at: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/bd/family_history.htm and www.cdc.gov/genomics/public/famhist.htm.

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This article has been republished with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Flu Activity Continuing to Decline

2009-03-18T00:08:00.001-04:00

According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, influenza activity continues to decline statewide. As of the week ending March 7th, there were 10,640 lab-confirmed cases of influenza - approximately 3,400 (25%) fewer than at this time last season.

Nationally, during the week of March 1 - 7, influenza activity in the United States remained high, but is at approximately the same level as in the previous week. National Influenza Activity for the preceding week can be found at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/fluactivity.htm.

Play It Safe When It Comes To Concussions

2009-03-17T07:33:00.003-04:00

More than 38 million boys and girls, ages 5-18, participate in organized youth sports across the country. And while sports can be a fun way to socialize and instill values such as teamwork, physical activity can also mean potential injuries. We need our coaches, parents and athletes to recognize and manage injuries – especially concussions – if we want our kids to be part of a safe, winning team.

Concussions are one of the most commonly reported injuries in children and adolescents who participate in sports and recreation activities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 3.8 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occur in the United States each year. A concussion is caused by a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.

Concussions can occur in any organized or unorganized sport or recreational activity and can result from a fall or from players colliding with each other or with obstacles, such as a goalpost.

In response, CDC has developed the Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to increase awareness and knowledge among youth sports coaches and administrators about concussion and the need to manage concussions appropriately.

As part of the campaign, CDC developed practical, easy-to-use information for coaches as well as sports administrators, athletes, and parents, including: fact sheets, a clipboard, magnets, and posters available at no cost.

It’s important for coaches to become familiar with the signs and symptoms of a concussion so that they can respond appropriately. To help recognize a concussion, coaches should be alert for any athletes who experience a forceful blow to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head and any demonstrated changes in an athlete’s behavior, thinking or physical functioning. The “Heads Up” materials provide a comprehensive list of signs and symptoms of concussion as well as important steps to take when a concussion is suspected.

To learn more and order the Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports materials at no cost, visit: www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports.

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This article has been republished with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Know the Truth about MRSA Skin Infections

2009-03-16T09:40:00.000-04:00

The truth about methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) may surprise you. MRSA is a type of bacteria that causes skin and other kinds of infections. Sometimes called “the superbug,” MRSA is resistant to certain antibiotics, but several antibiotics still work. And many times, antibiotics aren’t even needed -- doctors are often able to treat MRSA skin infections by simply draining them.

Because skin infections caused by MRSA are increasing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a new campaign to educate families about MRSA. Although most of these skin infections are mild, some infections may become life-threatening. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from MRSA skin infections.

Step 1: Know the signs and symptoms of MRSA and get treatment early

A staph skin infection, including one caused by MRSA, usually appears as a bump or infected area on the skin that may be red, swollen, painful, warm to the touch or full of pus or other drainage. It is especially important to contact your health care provider if these signs and symptoms are accompanied by a fever.

Step 2: Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered

Keeping cuts and scrapes covered will help prevent spreading bacteria to others. If you think the area is infected, contact your healthcare provider and follow their instructions about proper care of the infection. Be sure to discard used bandages in the trash.

Step3: Encourage good hygiene such as cleaning hands regularly

Bacteria and other germs are often spread from person to person by direct contact – mostly by our hands. Clean your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub, especially after changing a bandage or touching infected skin.

Step 4: Discourage sharing of personal items such as towels and razors

Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, razors, or clothing that may have had contact with infected skin or soiled bandages. Wash sheets, towels, and clothes with water and laundry detergent. Water temperatures for household laundry depend on the type of fiber or fabric of the clothing. In general, wash and dry in the warmest temperatures recommended on the clothing label. Use a clothes dryer to dry clothes completely.

For more information on the CDC’s campaign, please visit www.cdc.gov/MRSA.

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This article has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Amherst Public Health Department: Using Science to Protect People

2009-03-13T06:33:00.000-04:00

Public Health is what we do as a society to create the conditions for people to be healthy. Unlike medical or health care, our work is focused on groups or the entire population of a town, state or nation.

Applying proven, cost-effective methods, we prevent disease and avoid unnecessary medical expenditures. Here are some examples of how we do that:

We guard and protect against threats: Investigating disease outbreaks spread through the Town’s water supply, hotels, homes and businesses; inspecting restaurants for safety and cleanliness; responding swiftly to health threats from natural disasters and terrorist attacks; managing protection against West Nile virus, SARS, pandemic flu and Lyme disease.

We provide leadership: Defending against emerging infections; assuring that scarce flu vaccines reach people most at risk; promoting health and disease prevention strategies; advocating for better health through public policy; empowering people and providing necessary preventive care.

We improve health and safety: Responding first when outbreaks occur; preventing substance abuse; examining wild animals for disease; exterminating mosquitoes, rats and other disease-carrying threats, checking seniors’ blood pressure; enforcing health and safety regulations; providing life-saving vaccines to children.

We share our knowledge: Teaching people about nutrition and exercise; cooperating with physicians, emergency personnel and hospitals; training new professionals; evaluating programs,; educating communities to help prevent diseases like HIV.

Our local health departments are as necessary as police, firefighters and medical personnel to respond to emergencies and protect community health and safety. They’re an essential and cost-effective public investment.

FDA Issues Guidance for Food Manufacturers on Use of Peanut-Derived Product

2009-03-12T15:42:00.001-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that manufacturers obtain any peanut-derived ingredient only from suppliers who use production processes that have been demonstrated to adequately reduce the presence of Salmonella species (Salmonella spp.), or that they ensure that their own manufacturing process would adequately reduce the presence of Salmonella species.

The recommendations are in FDA’s "Guidance for Industry: Measures to Address the Risk for Contamination by Salmonella Species in Food Containing a Peanut-Derived Product As An Ingredient."

This guidance is intended for manufacturers who use a peanut-derived product as an ingredient in a food product. Peanut-derived products include peanuts, peanut butter, peanut paste, peanut meal, and peanut granules. Recent Salmonellosis outbreaks such as the outbreak associated with Salmonella Typhimurium involving the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) demonstrate the potential for foodborne illness from the consumption of foods containing peanut-derived products if those products are contaminated with Salmonella.

According to CDC, illnesses are still being reported among people who have eaten recalled peanut-derived products contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. The Agency is concerned that illnesses will continue to occur if people eat these peanut products that may still be on their shelves at home.

Both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials urge consumers to check the FDA’s Web resource on the peanut-derived product recall or call CDC’s 24-hour information hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) before eating any peanut-derived products. Product recalls also include some pet food products made by PCA.

To search for recalled peanut products, visit: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/peanutbutterrecall/index.cfm

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

Influenza Activity Declining in Massachusetts

2009-03-10T15:28:00.004-04:00

According to current reports from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, flu activity in Massachusetts peaked in the 2nd and 3rd weeks of February and is now in decline.

To date, 9 pediatric deaths from influenza have been identified by the Centers for Disease Control for the 2008-2009 flu season, 6 of those deaths reported between February 8th and 14th. These deaths occurred in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Comparatively, there were 78 pediatric deaths during the 2006-2007 flu season.

The CDC strongly recommends vaccination for all children aged 6 months to 18 years, as well as any household contacts of children in that age group. Children between the ages of 6 months and 8 years should receive two doses of vaccine if they have never been previously vaccinated. Otherwise, studies have shown little to no efficacy or protection for this population if only one dose is received.

As always, public health officials would like to remind the public that although flu season does indeed begin to taper off in March, it is still possible to be infected with influenza throughout the year. While immunization does peak in November and December, it is still not too late to be vaccinated. The Amherst Health Department has approximately 8 doses of vaccine for children and adults over the age of 4 years, so please contact Keith Carlson at 259-3161 if you are interested.

We wish you a safe and healthy Spring!

Whole Foods Recalls Pancake and Waffle Mix

2009-03-09T11:10:00.004-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- March 5, 2008 – Whole Foods Market announced the recall of its 365 Everyday Value Brand Organic Whole Wheat Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix, which may have potential salmonella contamination. No other Whole Foods Market, 365 or 365 Organic products are affected.

The product, sold in two pound bags with Best Before dates of Nov 1 2009 and Nov 2 2009 stamped on the top, displays the following UPC code: 99482-42453: 365 Everyday value Brand Organic Buttermilk Pancake and Waffle Mix, 100% Whole Wheat.

Salmonella is a food-borne illness that 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, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
No illnesses have been reported in connection with this issue to date. There is very low risk of illness when preparation directions on the bag are followed and the product is not consumed raw or undercooked. Salmonella bacteria is killed at a temperature of 160° F.

If consumers have this product with the indicated UPC codes and Best Before dates, they may return it to the store for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company by calling 512-542-0656.

Whole Foods Market has removed the affected lot codes from all store shelves. Product was distributed to 19 states including Florida, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Utah, California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Prostate Cancer and African Americans

2009-03-06T06:24:00.004-05:00

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States.While it isn’t known why African-American men have higher rates of getting and dying from prostate cancer, CDC believes that what you know can help you. African-American men should know the facts about prostate cancer.

Some medical experts believe all men should be offered regular screening tests for prostate cancer. Other medical experts do not. Given the uncertainty about the benefit of screening, CDC supports informed decision making about screening. When a man understands the nature and risks of prostate cancer and the risks, benefits, and alternatives to screening, he can make a decision consistent with his preferences and values.

Is prostate cancer screening right for you? The decision is yours. To help African-American men understand both sides of the issue, CDC has developed a helpful guide specific for African-American men.

For further information about prostate cancer, please visit the CDC’s Division of Cancer Prevention and Control Website at www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate. You can also subscribe to be alerted by e-mail when our website offers new information on a cancer topic of interest to you.

Prostate Cancer Screening: A Decision Guide for African Americans www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/publications/aadecisionguide

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This article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Campaign Helps Hispanics With Diabetes Enjoy Healthy, Traditional Foods

2009-03-04T09:52:00.000-05:00

A press release from the wesbite of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

New tools are available to help Hispanics enjoy healthy versions of their favorite recipes and control portion sizes, all designed to reduce their risk of developing diabetes. The recipes and other materials are part of a campaign called Más que comida, es vida, which means “It′s more than food. It′s life.”

The campaign was developed by the National Diabetes Education Program, a joint program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health.

Más que comida, es vida provides new tools to Hispanics to prepare traditional foods in a more healthy way. “A few simple adjustments can make these dishes healthier and lower in fat and calories,” said Betsy Rodríguez, public health advisor of the National Diabetes Education Program′s Hispanic/Latino Work Group.

"Más que comida, es vida" features materials written in English and Spanish, including a recipe booklet called Ricas recetas para personas con diabetes y sus familiares(Tasty Recipes for People with Diabetes and Their Families), that offers food ideas specifically designed for the Hispanic palate. Among the delicious and healthy recipes now included in the booklet are: Spanish omelet (tortilla Espanñola), beef or turkey stew (carne guisada de res o pavo), Caribbean red snapper (pargo rojo caribeño), two cheese pizza (pizza de dos quesos), and avocado tacos (tacos de aguacate).

Compared to whites, Hispanics are disproportionately affected by diabetes. More than 10 percent of Hispanics aged 20 years and older have diagnosed diabetes. Among Hispanics, rates of diabetes are 8.2 percent for Cubans, 11.9 percent for Mexican-Americans, and 12.6 percent for Puerto Ricans.

“Meal preparation is a critical component of diabetes control. Studies show that overweight or obese individuals can prevent or delay diabetes by losing just 5 percent to 7 percent of their total weight,” Rodriquez said.

CDC′s Division of Diabetes Translation and the NIH jointly sponsor the National Diabetes Education Program, which provides diabetes education to improve treatment and outcomes for people with diabetes, promote early diagnosis and prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.
Más que comida, es vida campaign materials and the recipe booklet are available at http://www.ndep.nih.gov/ or by calling 1-888-693-NDEP (6337).

For the original source of this press release, please click here.

Antiviral Resistance and Flu Vaccine

2009-03-03T11:52:00.003-05:00

With the flu season not quite at its seasonal peak, public health officials across the country are still urging the public to seek vaccination against influenza. Even though this year's vaccine is not 100% protective against every strain of influenza currently circulating, it can still offer considerable protection within two weeks of vaccination.

Recent reports demonstrate that common strains of influenza are becoming increasingly resistant to Tamiflu, previously the most effective antiviral medication used to combat acute cases of influenza. And according to numerous public health and medical officials, that resistance to antiviral drugs is yet another reason for the majority of susceptible Americans to seek vaccination if at all possible.

While deaths from influenza are not excessively high this year, the recent deaths of two otherwise healthy Maryland teenagers from acute influenza infection underscore the need for more vigilance, surveillance, and prevention.

Whether or not you have already been vaccinated against influenza, frequent handwashing is a very important means to staying healthy. Encourage children, friends, colleagues and family members to practice good hygiene, including sneezing and coughing into a sleeve rather than into one's hand. And if you are not feeling well, staying home and avoiding exposure to others who might be ill is advisable if at all possible.

The Amherst Health Department still has some doses of free flu vaccine available for the public. Please refer any resident in need of vaccination to Keith Carlson, Amherst's Public Health Nurse, at 259-3161.

Peanut Butter Recall Update

2009-02-26T13:22:00.003-05:00

If any resident would like an up-to-date list of recalled products that have been specifically distributed for retail sale in Massachusetts, please contact Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse, for access to an electronic or printed copy. A list dated February 25th was released to Massachusetts public health officials today, and is available for download or printing.

Keith can be reached at 413-259-3161 or carlsonk@amherstma.gov.

Bliss Bros. Dairy Recalls Ice Cream Products Due to Salmonella

2009-02-24T09:51:00.002-05:00

Bliss Bros. Dairy, Inc. of Attleboro, MA is recalling ½ gallons and 3 gallons of Witch’s Brew ice cream and 3 gallons of JJ Lawsen brand Snikkers ice cream because it has 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.

• Bliss Brothers Dairy Witch’s Brew Ice Cream packaged in half gallon and 3 gallon with 8252 & 8273

•JJ Lawson Brand Snikkers Ice Cream packaged in 3 gallon with lot codes 8109, 8147 & 8218

Product was distributed in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Maine through scoop shops, retail stores and home delivery. Witch’s Brew product is packaged in 3 gallon round paper containers and Bliss ½ gallon paper containers. JJ Lawsen Snikkers ice cream is packaged in 3 gallon round paper containers.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

This action is a result of the recall from our supplier of an ingredient that used Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) peanut products. PCA recalled all peanut products manufactured in their Blakely, Georgia facility since January 1, 2007.
Consumers who have purchased either of these products should not consume it. They should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-800-622-8789.

Health Habits of Adults Aged 18-29 Highlighted in Report on Nation′s Health

2009-02-24T09:46:00.000-05:00

Young adults in the United States aged 18-29 face a number of health challenges, including increases in obesity, high injury rates, and lack of insurance coverage compared to older adults, according to the latest report on the nation′s health.

Health, United States: 2008 is the 32nd annual edition of the report prepared by CDC′s National Center for Health Statistics, and includes a compilation of health data from a number of sources within the federal government and in the private sector. The report uses the most current data available at the time of publication.

This year′s edition features a special section on adults aged 18 to 29, a group making many life choices including decisions about education, marriage, childbearing, and health behaviors such as tobacco and alcohol use, which will affect both their future economic and health status.

Highlights of the report:

Obesity rates have tripled among young adults in the past three decades, from 8 percent in 1971-1974 to 24 percent in 2005-2006.

In 2006, 29 percent of young men were current cigarette smokers, compared to 21 percent of young adult women. Between 1997 and 2006, the percentage of women 18–29 years of age who currently smoked cigarettes declined nearly 20 percent. Current smoking did not decline significantly among young men.

In 2005, unintentional injuries or accidents, homicide, and suicide accounted for 70 percent of deaths among young adults 18–29 years of age. Three-quarters of the 47,000 deaths in this age group occurred among young men. Young adults also have the highest rate of injury-related emergency department visits of all age groups.

In 1999–2004, almost 9 percent of adults aged 20–29 reported having major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, or panic disorder in the past 12 months.

In 2006, adults aged 20–24 were more likely to be uninsured (34 percent) than those aged 18–19 (21 percent) and 25–29 (29 percent).

In 2004–2006, 17 percent of adults aged 18–29 reported needing but not receiving one or more of the following services in the past year because they could not afford them: medical care, prescription medicines, mental health care, or eyeglasses.

The full report contains 151 data tables in addition to the special feature on young adults. The tables cover the spectrum of health topics, serving as a comprehensive snapshot of the nation′s health.

Other highlights:

In 2006, American men could expect to live 3.6 years longer, and women 1.9 years longer, than they did in 1990. Death rates from heart disease, stroke and cancer have continued to decline in recent years.

Sixty-five percent of men and 80 percent of women aged 75 and older reported having high blood pressure or were taking high blood pressure medication in 2003–2006, compared to about 36 percent of adults aged 45–54.

The proportion of the population with high cholesterol levels has been dropping, in large part due to increased use of cholesterol-lowering drugs. In 2003–2006, 16 percent of adults had high cholesterol. Women aged 55 and over were much more likely to have high cholesterol than their male counterparts.

Approximately 25 percent of adults aged 60 and over had diabetes in 2003-2006.
Obesity rates do not appear to be increasing as rapidly as they did in past decades, but remain high, with over a third of adults age 20 and over considered to be obese in 2005–2006.

The full report is available at www.cdc.gov/nchs.

Flu Vaccine Still Available in Amherst

2009-02-23T12:42:00.003-05:00

The Amherst Health Department currently has approximately 8 doses of flu vaccine available for any citizen (4 years of age and older) who is seeking vaccination. With the influenza season still not at its peak, we continue to recommend vaccination even into late February or early March. If demand should spike, we will most likely have access to more vaccine from the State of Massachusetts.

Please call the Health Department at 259-3161 if you are interested in receiving a flu vaccine.

Flu Activity on the Rise in Massachusetts

2009-02-20T10:02:00.003-05:00

Influenza activity is on the rise in Massachusetts, and the flu season has actually not yet peaked, so there's still time to get a flu vaccine if you want one!

If you have already been vaccinated but want to protect yourself further, thorough and frequent handwashing for your entire family is one of the most important things that you can do to prevent the spread of illness. You don't need to purchase expensive antibacterial soaps, since these soaps have actually been shown to increase the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in communites where they are widely used. Simply scrub your hands together with any basic soap for approximately 20 seconds (or about as long as it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday" song).

Also, practice good cough and sneeze hygeine by bringing your arm in front of your face before sneezing, and sealing your mouth in the crook of your elbow. Sneezing into your hand obviously will soil your hand unnecessarily and put others at risk. This practice also allows a great deal more of the droplets being propelled forcefully from your mouth into the air where others might be exposed to them. Wash your hands especially well after sneezing and coughing, and try not to share towels and other personal hygeine items with others who might be infected.

If anyone in your home becomes ill with the flu, check the CDC's Flu website for information on self care, or contact the Amherst Health Department at 413-259-3077. The Health Department has brochures about caring for people with flu, and these are available in English, Portuguese, Spanish and Chinese.

Did You Know Your Pre-teen Needs Vaccinations Too?

2009-02-19T08:45:00.000-05:00

As children enter their pre-teen years, their world becomes an exciting place of new experiences and newfound freedoms. But adults know that adolescence also brings new risks and potential dangers, and parents can’t be there every minute.

There is something parents can do to protect their pre-teens, now and for years to come: make sure their children are vaccinated against potentially life-threatening diseases such as meningitis, whooping cough, and, for girls, cervical cancer.

Vaccines are not just for infants

Many parents don’t realize that doctors recommend several immunizations for 11- and 12-year- olds.

“The protection provided by some childhood vaccines wears off over time, and as they get older, young people are at risk of exposure to different diseases at school or camp or in other new situations,” says Dr. Anne Schuchat, director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases.

“What’s more, research shows that pre-teens generally do not get preventive health care, visiting the doctor only when they are sick. We at CDC urge parents to schedule a routine check-up for their 11- or 12-year-olds to discuss their child’s health and development and to talk with the doctor about recommended vaccinations.”

What vaccines do pre-teens need?

Three safe and effective vaccines are recommended for 11- or 12-year-olds. All pre-teens should receive Tdap, which combines protection against tetanus, plus highly contagious diphtheria and whooping cough (also known as pertussis), into one shot; and MCV4 to protect against meningitis and its complications. Pre-teen girls should also receive the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine – the first-ever vaccine to prevent a disease that kills almost 4,000 American women every year: cervical cancer.

“The vaccine works best when it is given before the onset of sexual activity,” says Dr. Schuchat. “And at age 11 and 12, girls have the best and strongest immune response to this vaccine.” The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the CDC support these recommendations for pre-teens.

Parents should also make sure their children are up-to-date on other immunizations such as influenza, chickenpox (varicella), hepatitis B and measles-mumps-rubella (MMR). Depending on their health and medical history, some pre-teens may require additional shots.

Information for Parents

To learn more about these vaccines and the diseases they prevent, visit the CDC’s pre-teen vaccine website at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pre-teen or call (800) CDC-INFO.

Reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

National MRSA Education Initiative

2009-02-16T18:37:00.000-05:00

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have launched a national campaign to educate the public about MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a potentially dangerous form of staph bacteria that is widely resistant to antibiotics and can cause chronic skin infections. You can become infected with MRSA through direct contact with an infected person or by sharing personal items, such as towels or razors that have touched infected skin. Some individuals with MRSA can have infection which is limited to wounds, urine, or other specific body fluids or cavities.

According to the CDC, the signs and symptoms of MRSA include skin that is:

red
swollen
painful
warm to the touch
full of pus or other drainage
accompanied by a fever

The CDC recommends that any person with a rash accompanied by a fever should see their medical provider immediately. If you or a family member experiences such symptoms, simply cover the affected area with a clean bandage and seek medical attention promptly.

According to the CDC, it is estimated that Americans visit the doctor more than 12 million times per year to address potential skin infections, many of which are caused by MRSA. And, although MRSA can affect anyone, children 0-18 years old and African-Americans of all ages are at particular risk.

Treatment for MRSA (as outlined on the CDC website) "may include having a healthcare professional drain the infection and, in some cases, prescribe an antibiotic. Do not attempt to drain the infection yourself – doing so could worsen or spread it to others. If you are given an antibiotic, be sure to take all of the doses (even if the infection is getting better), unless your healthcare professional tells you to stop taking it".

In terms of protecting yourself and your family from MRSA infection, the CDC recommends keeping cuts and scrapes clean, encouraging good hygiene and hand washing, and discouraging the sharing of personal items such as towels and razors.

Specific concerns have arisen pertaining to MRSA infection in schools, among athletes, and in other environments such as healthcare facilities. The CDC has provided for such concerns by creating online fact sheets to address these specific areas:

MRSA infection and athletes
MRSA infection in schools
MRSA in the Environment
Healthcare-Associated MRSA
Community-Associated MRSA

If you have specific concerns about MRSA or would like more information, please visit the CDC's MRSA website, call your medical provider, or call Keith Carlson, the Public Health Nurse for the town of Amherst, at 413-259-3077.

CDC Encourages Screening for Breast, Cervical and Colorectal Cancers

2009-02-12T00:38:00.001-05:00

Getting screened for some cancers can actually help prevent them from occurring. In particular, screening helps prevent cancers of the cervix, colon and rectum. Screening also helps find other cancers – such as breast cancer – at an early stage, when treatment can be most effective.

Because some cancers are found early and treatment options have improved, more and more people are living many years after a diagnosis. There are an estimated 10 million cancer survivors in the United States.

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women in the United States. Having regular mammograms is the best way to detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment often is more effective and can reduce the risk of dying from the disease. It is recommended that women aged 40 years or older be screened using mammography every one to two years. On average, this screening test is about 80-90 percent effective at detecting breast cancer in its earliest stages.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. It affects both men and women and risks increase with advancing age. More than 90 percent of colorectal cancers occur in adults aged 50 years or older.

Screening should begin at age 50. Those who think they’re at increased risk should speak with their doctors about when to begin screening. Screening is recommended using one or more of these tests:

· Colonoscopy,
· Fecal occult blood test (stool test),
· Flexible sigmoidoscopy, and
· Double-contrast barium enema.

Screening helps find precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon and rectum, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment often leads to a cure.

Cervical cancer once was the leading cause of cancer death for women in the United States. But during the past four decades, deaths from this disease have declined significantly, mostly because of widespread use of the Pap test. This test can find abnormal cells in the cervix. If a Pap test shows there are abnormal cells that could become cancerous, a woman can be treated. In most cases, this treatment prevents cervical cancer from developing. Pap tests also can find cervical cancer early. When it is found early, the chance of being cured is very high.

What You Can Do

For adult women:

Get a mammogram every one to two years beginning at age 40.

Get a Pap test at least every three years, within three years of onset of sexual activity—or at age 21, whichever comes first.

For men and women aged 50 years or older:

Speak with your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer, using one or more of the recommended screening tests, which are: colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy, and double contrast barium enema. Generally, if results from an FOBT, sigmoidoscopy, or barium enema show there may be a problem, a colonoscopy will be necessary as a follow-up procedure, as that is the only test that allows a doctor to both examine the entire colon and to remove most precancerous polyps and abnormal growths.

If you have questions about the various screening tests, please speak with your doctor.

Through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides access to free or low cost screening to women who are under- or uninsured. In addition, CDC is funding colorectal cancer screening pilot programs in five sites in the United States. To learn more about these programs and about cancer prevention and control, call 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit http://www.cdc.gov/cancer.

Reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control.

Help Seniors Live Better, Longer: Prevent Brain Injury

2009-02-10T10:17:00.001-05:00

Anyone who cares for or just cares about an older adult—a parent, grandparent, other family member, or even a close friend—will say they are concerned about keeping their loved one healthy and independent. But few will say they are worried about a traumatic brain injury (TBI) robbing their loved one of his or her independence. That’s because many people simply are unaware that TBI is a serious health concern for older adults.

TBI is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that affects how the brain normally works. Dr. Ileana Arias, director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), says that “falls are the leading cause of TBI.”

“Adults ages 75 and older have the highest rates of TBI-related hospitalizations and death, and they tend to recover more slowly or die more often from these injuries than do younger people,” says Dr. Arias.

Unfortunately, TBI is not visible and the signs and symptoms can be subtle. They might appear right after the injury occurs, or they might not be noticed or appear until days or even weeks later. TBIs also are easily missed because the person often appears to be fine, but may act differently than usual.

In addition, some TBI signs and symptoms mimic signs of aging, such as slowness in thinking, speaking, reacting, or becoming lost and easily confused. Therefore, it is important for those who care for and about older adults to look for signs and symptoms of TBI in those who have fallen or among those with a fall-related injury, such as a hip fracture.

Fall prevention is the best way to combat TBI among older adults. Dr. Arias recommends the following to help prevent loved ones from falling.

Encourage your loved one to exercise, if their doctor agrees. Exercise improves balance and coordination, so it’s one of the best ways to reduce an older adult’s chance of falling.
Make their home and surroundings safer by making easy modifications, such as removing rugs, placing frequently used items within easy reach, and installing grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower or tub.
Ask their health care provider to review all medicines—both prescription and over-the-counter. The way some medicines work in the body can change as people age.
Take your loved one to have their vision checked. Poor vision can increase their chance of falling.

To learn more about the signs and symptoms of TBI and how to prevent, recognize, and respond to TBI in older adults, call CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit: www.cdc.gov/BrainInjuryInSeniors.

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Article reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sniffle or Sneeze? No Antibiotics Please

2009-02-09T13:34:00.001-05:00

CDC advises parents about colds, flu and antibiotics

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has news for parents this cold and flu season: antibiotics don’t work for a cold or the flu.

Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. And colds, flu and most sore throats are caused by viruses. Antibiotics don’t touch viruses — never have, never will. And it’s not really news. It’s a long-documented medical fact. But tell that to parents seeking relief for a child’s runny nose. Research shows that most Americans have either missed the message about appropriate antibiotic use or they simply don’t believe it. It’s a case of mistaken popular belief winning out over fact. According to public opinion research, there is a perception that “antibiotics cure everything.”

Americans believe in the power of antibiotics so much that many patients go to the doctor expecting to get a prescription. And they do. Why? Physicians often are too pressured for time to engage in lengthy explanations of why antibiotics won’t work. And, when the diagnosis is uncertain — as many symptoms for viral and bacterial infections are similar — doctors are more likely to yield to patient demands for antibiotics.

Risk of antibiotic-resistance

The problem is, taking antibiotics when they are not needed can do more harm than good. Widespread inappropriate use of antibiotics is fueling an increase in drug-resistant bacteria. And sick individuals aren’t the only people who can suffer the consequences. Families and entire communities feel the impact when disease-causing germs become resistant to antibiotics.

The most obvious consequence of inappropriate antibiotic use is its effect on the sick patient. When antibiotics are incorrectly used to treat children or adults with viral infections, such as colds and flu, they aren’t getting the best care for their condition. A course of antibiotics won’t fight the virus, make the patient feel better, yield a quicker recovery or keep others from getting sick.

A less obvious consequence of antibiotic overuse is the boost it gives to drug-resistant disease-causing bacteria. Almost every type of bacteria has become stronger and less responsive to antibiotic treatment when it really is needed. These antibiotic-resistant bacteria can quickly spread to family members, school mates and co-workers — threatening the community with a new strain of infectious disease that is more difficult to cure and more expensive to treat.

According to the CDC, antibiotic resistance is one of the world’s most pressing public health problems. Americans of all ages can lower this risk by talking to their doctors and using antibiotics appropriately during this cold and flu season.

What to do for colds and flu

• Children and adults with viral infections recover when the illness has run its course. Colds caused by viruses may last for two weeks or longer.
• Measures that can help a person with a cold or flu feel better:
– Increase fluid intake
– Use a cool mist vaporizer or saline nasal spray to relieve congestion
– Soothe throat with ice chips, sore throat spray or lozenges (for older children and adults)
• Viral infections may sometimes lead to bacterial infections. Patients should keep their doctor informed if their illness gets worse or lasts a long time.

Reproduced with the kind permission of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The Latest Information on the Salmonella Outbreak

2009-02-05T15:29:00.004-05:00

As the well-publicized nationwide salmonella outbreak broadens in scope, the Amherst Health Department would like to provide citizens of Amherst with the most up-to-date information available to us, and this blog will be updated regularly for the benefit of Amherst citizens seeking information.

To the best of our knowledge, all Amherst-area grocery outlets have removed recalled products from their shelves. However, consumers may still have previously purchased products in their cabinets that must be identified and disposed of. To that end, we are providing several important links which consumers can access to obtain the most accurate recall lists made available by the FDA and CDC.

For an accurate list of recalled products, please click here for access to the FDA's list which is updated on a daily basis to reflect the latest additions.

To access the FDA's Peanut Butter Recall Blog, please click here.

To see a YouTube video of The FDA's Dr. Stephen Sundlof discussing the do's and don'ts of the peanut butter outbreak, simply click here.

If you have further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Amherst Health Department at 259-3077.

Precautions for Extreme Cold Weather

2009-02-04T14:10:00.000-05:00

The following information is from the website of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. To see the original document, please click here.

Before an Extreme Cold Emergency

Continue to be aware of the weather conditions by monitoring media reports.

Ensure you have sufficient heating fuel, as well as emergency heating equipment in case you lose electricity.

Have a well-stocked Winter Home Emergency Supply Kit that includes flashlights, portable radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable food.

Make sure your car is properly winterized. Keep the gas tank at least half-full. Carry a Winter Survival Kit in the trunk including blankets, extra clothing, flashlight with spare batteries, a can & waterproof matches (to melt snow for drinking water), non-perishable foods, windshields scraper, shovel, sand, towrope and jumper cables.

During an Extreme Cold Emergency

Minimize outside activities, particularly the elderly and very young. Also consider your pets.

Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing, rather than a single layer of heavy clothing. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent.

Wear a hat, mittens (rather than gloves) and sturdy waterproof boots, protecting your extremities. Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs.

If electricity is lost for an extended period of time, a snowbank in your yard can become a makeshift freezer for food.

Excessive exposure can lead to frostbite, which is damage to body tissue that is frozen. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, seek medical help immediately. Slowly rewarm the affected areas as you await medical assistance.

Hypothermia can occur in extreme cases. The warning signs are uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If the person’s temperature drops below 95 degrees, seek immediate medical care. If medical assistance is not available, slowly warm up the person, body core first, wrapping them in a blanket or using your own body heat. Do not warm the extremities first, for this drives the cold blood towards the heart and can lead to heart failure. Do not give the person alcohol, coffee, tea or any hot food or beverage. Warm liquids are best.

When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as your fireplace, wood stove or space heater, take the necessary safety precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, ensuring everyone knows how to use it properly. Test smoke alarms.

If you lose your heat, seal off unused rooms by stuffing towels in the cracks under the doors. At night, cover windows with extra blankets or sheets. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.

To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of newspapers, covering the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture. Allow a trickle of warm water to run from a faucet that is farthest from your water meter or one that has frozen in the past. This will keep the water moving so that it cannot freeze. Learn how to shut off your water if a pipe bursts.
If pipes freeze, remove insulation, completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes or wrap them with towels soaked in hot water, starting where they are most exposed to the cold. A hand-held hair dryer, used with caution, also works well.

Check with elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors to ensure their safety

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For more information, please call the Amherst Health Department at 413-259-3077.

Frostbite

2009-01-26T12:06:00.007-05:00

The following information on frostbite is from the website of the CDC and can be accessed by clicking here.

Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes.

Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can lead to amputation. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.

Recognizing Frostbite

At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

* a white or grayish-yellow skin area
* skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
* numbness

A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.

What to Do
If you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, first determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously. Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance.

If (1) there is frostbite but no sign of hypothermia and (2) immediate medical care is not available, proceed as follows:

* Get into a warm room as soon as possible.
* Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes—this increases the damage.
* Immerse the affected area in warm—not hot—water (the temperature should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected parts of the body).
* Or, warm the affected area using body heat. For example, the heat of an armpit can be used to warm frostbitten fingers.

Do not rub the frostbitten area with snow or massage it at all. This can cause more damage.
Don’t use a heating pad, heat lamp, or the heat of a stove, fireplace, or radiator for warming. Affected areas are numb and can be easily burned.

These procedures are not substitutes for proper medical care. Hypothermia is a medical emergency and frostbite should be evaluated by a health care provider. It is a good idea to take a first aid and emergency resuscitation (CPR) course to prepare for cold-weather health problems. Knowing what to do is an important part of protecting your health and the health of others.

Taking preventive action is your best defense against having to deal with extreme cold-weather conditions. By preparing your home and car in advance for winter emergencies, and by observing safety precautions during times of extremely cold weather, you can reduce the risk of weather-related health problems.

Stonewall Kitchen Voluntarily Recalls Dessert Sauces

2009-01-26T10:56:00.002-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- January 23, 2009

As a precautionary measure, Stonewall Kitchen of York, Maine is voluntarily recalling seven dessert sauces because they have the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.

Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following
symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also me common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.

The following list of products was distributed nationwide to consumers through the nine Stonewall Kitchen Company Stores, Stonewall Kitchen’s direct-to-consumer division (catalog/internet) and through their wholesale division. Products could have been purchased individually or within a gift basket.

This recall affects all product codes and expiration dates for:

Stonewall Kitchen Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce (SKU 161312) – round glass jar, 12 oz.
Stonewall Kitchen Chocolate Peanut Butter (SKU 161211) – round glass jar, 12 oz.
Stonewall Kitchen Coffee Caramel Sauce (SKU 161204) – round glass jar, 13 oz.
Stonewall Kitchen Dulce de Leche Sauce (SKU 161214) – round glass jar, 12.5 oz.
Barefoot Contessa Espresso Dulce de Leche (SKU 542313) – round glass jar, 10.5 oz.

Additionally, the following list of products was distributed nationwide to consumers through
A-Hold Corporation (Stop & Shop and Giant stores). This recall affects all product codes and expiration dates for:

Simply Enjoy Coffee Caramel Sauce – square glass jar, 13 oz.
Simply Enjoy Chocolate Peanut Butter Sauce – square glass jar, 12 oz.

To date, Stonewall Kitchen has not experienced any problems or complaints about our dessert sauces. No illnesses have been reported to date. Stonewall Kitchen is voluntarily recalling these products due to the fact that during manufacturing, the pH level and water activity did not meet our food safety standards.

If a consumer has the any of the above products, we recommend they discontinue the use of that jar and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Stonewall Kitchen Premier Services at 1-800-826-1735.

Peanut Butter Product Recall

2009-01-22T14:07:00.003-05:00

For those curious about the state of the peanut butter product recall, the CDC and FDA both report that "no association has been found with major national brand name jars of peanut butter sold in grocery stores."

Again, if consumers have any questions regarding the product recall, please visit the FDA website for an updated list of recalled products and an overview of the recent salmonella outbreak.

Peanut Butter-Related Salmonella Outbreak Update

2009-01-20T08:49:00.005-05:00

As the list of recalled products expands related to the recent outbreak of Salmonella, the CDC has made several simple recommendations for American Consumers:

1) Do not eat products that have been recalled and throw them away in a manner that prevents others from eating them

2) Postpone eating other peanut butter containing products (such as cookies, crackers, cereal, candy and ice cream) until information becomes available about whether that product may be affected.

So far, 474 people have been sickened in 43 states, with 107 individuals hospitalized and 6 deaths potentially linked to the outbreak. 40 of the 474 infected individuals reside in Massachusetts.

The CDC states:

"Of the 458 persons with available data, illness onsets were between September 8, 2008 and January 2, 2009. Age range was 1-98."

For the latest list of recalled products, please visit the related page on the website of the Food and Drug Administration, available by clicking here. For general information on salmonella, please click here.

As always, please feel free to call Keith Carlson, Public Health Nurse for the Town of Amherst, at 413-259-3161 for further information.

Little Debbie Peanut Butter Crackers Recalled

2009-01-16T16:13:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2009

MCKEE FOODS VOLUNTARILY WITHDRAWS LITTLE DEBBIE® PEANUT BUTTER TOASTY
CRACKERS AND PEANUT BUTTER CHEESE CRACKERS

COLLEGEDALE, Tenn. — Kellogg Company has announced that it has taken the precautionary measure of putting a hold on several Austin® and Keebler® branded peanut butter sandwich crackers. Kellogg also manufactures Peanut Butter Toasty and Peanut Butter Cheese sandwich crackers for McKee Foods. These
two items are sold under the Little Debbie® brand.

FDA and other regulatory agencies have indicated that Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) is the focus of their investigation concerning a recent Salmonella outbreak thought to be caused by tainted peanut butter. PCA is one of several peanut paste suppliers that Kellogg uses in manufacturing peanut butter
sandwich crackers.

Kellogg Company's investigation has not indicated any concerns, nor has Kellogg received any consumer illness complaints about these products. Nonetheless, Kellogg Company is taking precautionary measures including putting a hold on any inventory in its control, removing product from retail store shelves, and
encouraging customers and consumers to hold and not eat these products until regulatory officials complete their investigation of PCA and Kellogg provides further information as to the resolution of this issue.

McKee Foods has also not received any consumer illness complaints about its Peanut Butter Toasty or Peanut Butter Cheese sandwich crackers. McKee Foods is also taking the precautionary measures of putting a hold on any inventory in its control, removing product from retail store shelves, and encouraging consumers to not eat these two Little Debbie® products.

The Little Debbie® Cheddar on Cheese sandwich cracker is not affected by this action.

McKee Foods does not purchase peanut paste from PCA, and therefore, no other Little Debbie® products containing peanut butter are affected by this action.

Consumers who have purchased Little Debbie® Peanut Butter Toasty and/or Peanut Butter Cheese sandwich crackers should discard the crackers but save the packaging and contact Consumer Affairs at 1-800-522-4499.

• McKee Foods Coporation • McKee Foods Transportation, LLC • McKee Foods Kingman, Inc. • McKee Foods Finance, Inc.

Federal Contract Awarded to Build First U.S. Manufacturing Facility for Cell-Based Influenza Vaccine

2009-01-15T19:17:00.006-05:00

For Immediate Release:

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced a $487 million multiple year contract with Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Inc., to build the first U.S. facility to manufacture cell-based vaccine for seasonal and pandemic flu. Because cell-based influenza vaccine can be made faster and in greater quantities than traditional vaccine, the new facility is expected to increase the U.S. capacity to make pandemic influenza vaccine by at least 25 percent.

Cell-based vaccine production could more easily meet surge capacity needs because cells could be frozen and stored in advance of an epidemic or developed rapidly in response to an epidemic. Cell-based vaccine production also dramatically reduces the possibility for contamination and promises to be more reliable, flexible, and expandable than egg-based methods.

Currently, influenza vaccines licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are made in specialized chicken eggs using a process that has changed little in over 50 years. In place of eggs, cell-based vaccine production uses laboratory-grown cells that are capable of hosting a growing virus. The virus is injected into the cells where it multiplies. The cells’ outer walls are removed, harvested, purified, and inactivated. Using this technology, a vaccine can be produced in a matter of weeks.

“Today we are taking an important step in our ongoing commitment to pandemic preparedness,” said Dr. Robin Robinson, director of the HHS Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), which will oversee the contract. “In a pandemic we would need vaccine ready within six months. That’s why the National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza set domestic surge capacity as a goal in preparing the nation for a pandemic. That goal could not be accomplished using the traditional egg-based method of producing flu vaccine.”

New cell-based influenza vaccines provides an option for people who are allergic to eggs and, therefore, unable to receive current flu vaccines. Cell-based production avoids other problems that egg-based production has, such as a potential shortage of eggs due to poultry-based diseases.

The cell-based vaccine technology can also be used to make vaccines for seasonal influenza and other major emerging infectious diseases.

Under the contract, Novartis and HHS share the cost of the new cell-based influenza vaccine manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, N.C., with the HHS contract covering 40 percent of the cost and Novartis bearing 60 percent.

Also under the contract, Novartis will provide two new flu vaccines for seasonal flu or for pre-pandemic use. The contract builds on progress made through a previous HHS contract award to Novartis to accelerate the development of cell-based influenza vaccine.

The new contract also will fund scientific studies, called clinical bridging studies, to compare existing Novartis vaccines to new ones, including those developed in the new facility, to show that these new ones are also safe and effective. By comparing new and existing vaccines, the company can provide information quickly to the FDA to request licenses for the new vaccines.
If licensed by the FDA, the new cell-based vaccines made in the United States could be purchased for by the federal government for vaccine stockpiles.

The original version of this press release can be found here.

Kellogg Company Recalls Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers

2009-01-15T13:10:00.001-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Battle Creek, MI -- January 14, 2009

Kellogg Company today announced it has taken the precautionary measure of putting a hold on Austin and Keebler branded Toasted Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers, Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich Crackers, Cheese and Peanut Butter Sandwich Crackers, and Peanut Butter-Chocolate Sandwich Crackers.

FDA and other regulatory agencies have indicated that Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) is the focus of their investigation concerning a recent Salmonella outbreak thought to be caused by tainted peanut butter. PCA is one of several peanut paste suppliers that the company uses in its Austin and Keebler branded peanut butter sandwich crackers.

Kellogg Company's investigation has not indicated any concerns, nor has the Company received any consumer illness complaints about these products.

Nonetheless, Kellogg Company is taking precautionary measures including putting a hold on any inventory in its control, removing product from retail store shelves, and encouraging customers and consumers to hold and not eat these products until regulatory officials complete their investigation of PCA and Kellogg provides further information as to the resolution of this issue.

"Consumer health and safety is our top priority," said David Mackay, president and CEO, Kellogg Company. "We are taking these voluntary actions out of an abundance of caution."

While no additional consumer action is necessary at this time, consumers with questions or who would like a product refund can call the Kellogg Consumer Response Center at 888-314-2060.