Tag Archives: H1N1

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

IT’S ALMOST TIME FOR THE WINTER OLYMPICS!

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If you are not among the lucky ones that are going to the spectacular country of Canada for the 2010 Winter Olympics, get out the hot chocolate, popcorn, candy and other goodies and get ready for some excitement and beautiful scenery.   British Columbia, Canada, is home to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games from February 12 through 28, and the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 through 21.  Host venue cities are Vancouver, Whistler, and Richmond.  The official torch is already crossing Canada.

Officials have been preparing for months, and Canadians are excited to welcome athletes and fans from all over the world.  The government is taking serious precautions with safety, health and security concerns for all visitors and athletes, as well as their own citizens.

One of the health issues is the spread of the H1N1 virus.  The World Health Organization is sending a representative to monitor for potential disease outbreaks, but officials feel the threat has passed.  However, British Columbia health officials have been planning for the possible impact it would have on the games since before the pandemic was declared in June.  In their planning, they decided to keep a large supply of antiviral drugs on hand, just in case.

To avoid a major outbreak, the best practices are to continue with these sanitary protocols: washing hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and when sick, don’t get out in public.  Persons traveling to the games need to be watchful for exposure to sick persons, and not touch surfaces if they can keep from it.  Those with children should be extra cautious in protecting them from the illness.  Keeping hand sanitizer in ones’ bag or purse will serve as a reminder to keep your hands clean.  First and foremost, persons planning to attend need to get both the seasonal flu shot and H1N1 shot.  Hopefully, the athletes will have had theirs.  More than 100 staffers of the U.S. Olympic Committee are getting their H1N1 vaccines before they head to Vancouver.  Athletes are saying there may be more “elbow bumps” than hand shaking this time!

The Canadian organizers of the games have contingency plans for staffing should the virus affect regular staff members.  A security team of 750 officers will be on stand-by in case of illness or emergency.  There is a pool of volunteers that can be ready in short-order time.  Although they can’t make it a requirement, all staff members and volunteers have been asked to take the vaccine.  Many teams are arriving this month, and will have the opportunity to take the vaccine in time for it to be effective, if they haven’t already taken it.  Public health nurses will be at the athletes’ villages, as well as venues, including hotels where officials and sponsors will stay to monitor for illnesses.

We wish the country of Canada much success in keeping athletes, their families, and all the visitors to the Olympics both safe and well.  There are many security issues that they are dealing with, as well as health concerns.  With the very best athletes representing their home countries, this is a time for focusing the eyes of the world toward the good sportsmanship that is displayed by those who have worked so very hard to achieve their goals.  We wish good traveling and health to all those who are fortunate to attend these Winter Olympics, in addition to the excitement of seeing the true beauty of Canada.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

BE PATIENT, THE VACCINE IS COMING!

Hopefully, by now you have had your regular seasonal flu shot.  On October 5, the first doses of the H1N1 vaccine were administered.  Dr. Charles Miramonti, an emergency room physician in Indianapolis, was the first to receive the FluMist vaccine.  Other healthcare workers in Indianapolis and Tennessee that work directly with patients received their vaccine today, as well.

Initial shipments are small at this time; therefore, most of it is being given to healthcare workers who are exposed to persons with flu-like symptoms.   Mid-October is when the vaccines are scheduled to start rolling out.  There have been no red flags showing up in the several thousand volunteers who have been tested.

As stated in the past, ones to receive the vaccine are:

  • pregnant women,
  • young people, age 6 months to 24 years old,
  • persons under age 64 with risks of complications from influenza,
  • healthcare workers,
  • caregivers of newborns.

It is up to each state health department to determine how many doses will go to their local doctors, clinics, schools and drugstores.  Within a few weeks, there will be enough for everyone.

Until it is available in your area, be patient, and do everything you can to avoid sick people, stay out of crowds if possible, and keep washing your hands.

Source: AP

First Aid Safety, Respiratory Safety

H1N1 EMERGENCY WARNING SIGNS

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Hospital emergency rooms in cities are routinely full of sick persons; but these days they are overwhelmed.  Nightly news reports indicate that they are overrun, and many times the wait for persons to be seen is several hours.  People who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should first contact their physician if possible before going to an emergency room.  Sitting in a room full of sick people would seem to be more of a risk of exposure.

The first doses of H1N1 vaccine should be arriving soon; however, there are certain groups that will be first to receive it: children ages 2 to 3, pregnant women, healthcare providers, and persons with underlying health problems.  The H1N1 flu is mild for most individuals.  However, as advised by the Centers for Disease Control, watch for these signs that urgent medical attention is needed:

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish or gray skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

By this time, hopefully, you have taken the regular seasonal flu shot.  It won’t prevent the H1N1 virus, but experts recommend that you take it before the H1N1 vaccine is distributed.

Source: Centers for Disease Control

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Uncategorized

HAVE YOU HAD YOUR SEASONAL FLU SHOT?

If you haven’t had your seasonal flu shot, it’s time!  In the latest reports from the Texas Department of Health Services, there is an increase in flu-like illnesses and lab-confirmed cases in one-half of the state’s regions.  This means that the state’s influenza activity is classified as “widespread”.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) flu activity classifications range from none to sporadic, local, regional, and widespread.

Here is information from the CDC, effective this week:

  • There are 26 states with widespread influenza activity, which is very unusual at this time.
  • Almost all of the viruses so far have been identified as H1N1.
  • Visits to physicians for flu-like illnesses have increased nationally.
  • For the past six consecutive weeks, influenza-like illnesses are higher than expected during this time of year.
  • Hospital rates for influenza illnesses in adults and children are similar to or lower than seasonal flu rates, but are higher than expected for this time of year.
  • There have been 49 pediatric deaths from H1N1 flu reported to CDC since April 2009, including three this week.

Early results from clinical trials, which began in mid-August for children’s H1N1 vaccine have been excellent, especially for the age group 10-17.  Experts feel that only one dose will be required to protect children from this virus.

Two separate vaccinations are required, one for seasonal flu and the other for H1N1.  One will not protect you from the other.  If you haven’t gotten your shot yet, please do so.  The H1N1 vaccine should be ready by early to mid-October; however, there will be special groups that will receive theirs first: children, pregnant women, healthcare workers, and those who are more susceptible to infection.  It won’t be long, though, so get the seasonal flu shot, and as soon as the new vaccine is available, get it.

In the meantime, take the precautions that healthcare professionals have been advising all along: wash your hands often, keep hand sanitizer with you for when you can’t wash your hands, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, and stay away from crowds if possible.  If you become ill, don’t go to work or school.  It’s going to take individual awareness to overcome these viruses that are lurking.

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

I’M LEAVING ON A JET PLANE….

But before I go, I am going to pack some flat fold N95 face masks, hand sanitizer, and some other goodies to try to be well when I get to my destination.  Airlines have taken notice of the threat of H1N1 virus and stocked up on disposable medical gloves, alcohol wipes and face masks, as well as more frequent cleanings of surfaces in an effort to keep germs from spreading.  Katherine Andrus, assistant general counsel for Air Transportation Association says air on planes is probably cleaner than in most enclosed spaces, as air systems are designed to minimize the risk of germs spreading.  Air flows across rows of seats instead of front to back, and is constantly changed with combinations of fresh air and circulated air going through several filters.

Dr. Tim Johnson, ABC News chief medical editor offers these five tips for persons traveling by plane:

1.    If a person next to you is coughing or sneezing, ask to switch seats, if possible.

2.    Take a face mask.

3.    Use alcohol-based sanitizer often, and antibacterial wipes on surfaces.

4.    Bring your own pillow and blanket.

5.    Bring your water and stay hydrated.

Be alert to people who may be sick, and keep your distance.  If you are sick, stay home.

Which brings us to another topic:  why not be ready for this or the regular flu bug, just in case?  If you get sick, you don’t need (or won’t feel like) a shopping trip for things you will need to fight it.  Also, you won’t be exposing others to your germs.  Here’s some suggestions for you to stock up on, just in case:

  • Cough medicine, in case what you already have is out of date.
  • Gatorade, or other drinks to replace electrolytes.
  • Fever reducer, such as ibuprophen, aspirin or acetaminophen
  • Soup
  • Other non-caffeine drinks for hydration
  • If you have children, be sure their medicines are not out of date

Whether you are traveling, working out in the public, or staying at home, we hope this winter will bring good health to you and yours.  Just pay closer attention this time, as there’s a new bug lurking, and until the vaccine is ready, do all you can to stay well.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

H1N1: SAME SONG, SECOND VERSE!

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The swine flu was a major cause of economic hardship for Mexico when it first broke out last spring.  Officials say they are not going to handle things in quite the same way if an outbreak occurs again this fall.  Restaurants, schools, public sports events, and any number of activities were closed in order to stop the spread of the virus.  Instead, they are emphasizing the importance of hand washing and other protective measures individuals can take.  The streets and sidewalks are being kept much cleaner.

Many countries are taking the same precautions and issuing the same warnings.  Schools are teaching hygiene and telling their students to not spread germs if they begin to feel sick.  Everyone, everywhere needs to get on board; maybe together we can overcome the obstacles presented by the virus.  Here are some things you probably already know, but if not, we’ll tell you again:

  • So far, the virus has not been much more threatening than the regular flu.  More people are susceptible to it, though, and it did persist through the summer, which is unusual.
  • It has been rather baffling to health professionals in that it seems to affect different groups.  Most flu affects older persons; however, this one has hit teens and otherwise healthy young adults.  Other groups that are vulnerable are those with underlying health problems like diabetes, asthma and heart disease, as well as pregnant women, children under age 2, and health care workers.
  • Alcohol-based sanitizers are excellent hand hygiene tools; however, using soap and water often is the best practice.  It’s recommended that you take the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday”, or the “Alphabet Song” to do a thorough hand washing.
  • Vaccinations are important.  Pregnant women, children age 6 months and up through young adults age 24, and health care workers should be the first to receive the vaccinations.  When the vaccine is available, everyone should take the shots.
  • Taking the shots as early as possible will help, as the vaccine will probably require two shots, three weeks apart, and effectiveness will take place approximately two weeks following.
  • Vaccines are being tested and companies are working diligently to produce enough vaccine for mass production.  There are several facilities throughout the US and worldwide that are testing their vaccines.
  • Use your head. Be cautious if the swine flu breaks out in your area.  Avoid going to the mall, churches, sports events, and any other place you usually go where there are large groups of people.
  • If you become ill with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, chest pain, call your doctor.  He/she may prescribe Tamiflu or Relenza, which will help reduce the severity.  A trip to the Emergency Room may be needed if children experience rapid breathing along with fever, or adults don’t improve after receiving the common flu drugs.
  • You cannot catch swine flu from eating pork.  Handling uncooked or cooked meat does not spread the virus.

Source: A.P.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety, Uncategorized

CLOUD OF H1N1 VIRUS STILL LOOMING

The mysterious strain of influenza that began last spring is hanging over countries throughout the world like a heavy cloud.  Officials in the U.S. are concerned that the virus could infect as many as 30 to 50 per cent of its citizens, put 1.8 million persons in hospitals, and possibly kill between 30,000 to 90,000 people.  Seasonal flu kills 36,000 Americans in an annual normal flu season, and causes more than 200,000 patients to be admitted to hospitals.

Another main concern from health officials is that prescription medications, Tamiflu and Relenza, are being widely misused.  In the United Kingdom, experts had warned physicians not to prescribe the drug just because of public demand.  These medications can reduce the severity of the illness; however, they should be given only to high-risk patients, such as pregnant women, children under 5, or persons with underlying health conditions.

Excessive overuse can build up a resistance to antiviral drugs, as well as lead to a lack of medicine for those who desperately need them.  Many persons who have been taking Tamiflu in general, have not completed the required dosage, and some have reported side effects, such as vomiting or nausea.

As we witnessed on local television news last night, the first lesson being taught in an elementary school yesterday (the first day of school), was washing their hands.  School officials are aware of the importance these and other precautionary measures are to avert the spread of H1N1 in their schools.  As we have reported, government officials have designated local school administrations to be the decision makers if the need arises to close their schools.  It is felt that long periods of school closures are not necessary, as was done in the spring.  Anyone who has been ill is asked not to return to school until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours.  The same should apply to return to work, as well.

Five vaccine providers are working diligently to get the first immunizations out as soon as possible.  Until they are tested and approved, it is recommended that persons take the regular seasonal flu shot that should be available in September.

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

H1N1 Vaccines To Be Available By Fall

It was announced Monday by US Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson Bill Hall, that there will be approximately 45 million doses of the vaccine available by mid-October, which will be enough to immunize the priority groups that include pregnant women, children under age 4 and public health workers.  This total falls about two-thirds short of earlier estimates of vaccine that would be developed by this time.  It is anticipated, however, that approximately 20 millions doses can be produced weekly.

Vaccine testing of children began August 19th in five universities in the United States.  Dr. Karen Kotloff, lead investigator of H1N1 studies at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, stated that children are tested in the same way that standard licensed flu vaccines are tested in adults.  Medical professionals’ children are many of the ones that have enrolled to be tested.  These 600 young persons are divided into three groups: 6 to 35 months; age 3 to 9 years; and age 10 to 17 years old.  One-half of them receive 15 micrograms of antigens, which are the same as the  three strains of seasonal flu vaccine.  The other one-half receive 30 micrograms of antigens to determine if a higher dose is needed.  Because adults over age 50 have more immunity to H1N1, and children have very little immunity to it, experts believe that the amount of vaccine needed may vary according to age.

As fall approaches, with school openings and various sports activities starting, it is imperative that school officials are prepared to stop the spread of the virus by preparing their students to protect themselves as much as possible.  Parents, as well, can teach their younger students to cover their coughs and sneezes, not drink after anyone else, and wash their hands very often.
Everyone should take the seasonal flu shot as soon as it becomes available. Also, be sure to stock up on N95 masks just in case.

Source: ABC News

General Safety Issues, Respiratory Safety

MORE “BACK TO SCHOOL” BASICS

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This time of year is always a busy one for teachers, administrators, and staff, as they get everything ready for the first day of school.  This school year, however, presents a problem they had not contended with until last spring: how to prevent their students from contacting the H1N1 virus at school.  The federal government issued guidelines for schools, and plans to do the same soon for day care facilities, colleges, and employers.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan advocates “prevention, close monitoring, and common sense” in dealing with the dilemma.  Schools should teach health curriculums to students the first two weeks of school.  Hand washing and covering coughs are of the utmost importance.  Many schools are considering furnishing online resources for parents to be able to access materials when their kids miss school.

Ill students and staff should be separated from other students; a room set aside for them should be furnished until they can go home.   They should also be given protective respirators.  N95 masks or N95 Respirators block 95% of very small particles in the air.  These masks should fit properly, be replaced often and thrown away after one use.  They should be placed in a plastic bag before being thrown in the trash, and then the person should wash their hands thoroughly.

Hand sanitizer should be available at the school.  If the schools don’t furnish it, parents could send a bottle with their students to keep in their backpacks or lockers.  Parents play a very important role in protecting their students by keeping them at home if they are showing symptoms of the flu.  If that is the case, they should begin giving them fever reducers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen, as needed.  Gatorade also helps to keep them hydrated.   It is felt that students do not have to stay home after being ill as long as they were last year.  Suggestions are that they may return following 24 hours of being fever-free.

Everyone should get his/her regular seasonal flu shot, and hopefully, the new vaccine for this particular virus will be ready by mid-October.  It’s going to take a team effort to deal with what’s ahead, but hopefully, the cases will be mild.  Let’s do all we can to keep our kids well.

Source: ABC News

Uncategorized

INTERNATIONAL SWINE FLU CONFERENCE

We recently received an email from New-Fields regarding the first International Swine Flu Summit planned for August 19-20, and a workshop August 21, in Washington, D.C.  This meeting will be very similar to seven successful conferences on Bird Flu and will involve business leaders, educators, and health officials outlining strategies for dealing with the many obstacles that an outbreak of this virus can cause.

This conference will cover every imaginable entity that would be affected.  Fifteen concurrent breakout sessions will be held.  By reading the list of topics below, one can see that this virus has caused concern throughout the world and requires meticulous planning.

  • Breakout 1: Mass Fatality Management Planning
  • Breakout 2: Psychological Issues
  • Breakout 3: Business Continuity Planning
  • Breakout 4: Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Continuity of Government Planning
  • Breakout 5: Emergency Management Services
  • Breakout 6: Law Enforcement Agencies
  • Breakout 7: First Responders: Fire Department
  • Breakout 8: First Responders: Public Works
  • Breakout 9: 911 Call Center Services
  • Breakout 10: Hospital and Emergency Medical Services
  • Breakout 11: Workplace Planning
  • Breakout 12: School/University Pandemic Planning
  • Breakout 13: Airlines, Travel, Airport, Quarantine and Border Health Services
  • Breakout 14: Infectious Medical Waste
  • Breakout 15: Swine Flu: Agriculture Perspective & Interventions

Experts that will deliver messages and conduct the sessions are specialists in the following fields:

  • CEO/VP/COO/R&D Director
  • Chief Epidemiology/Medical Officer/Doctor
  • Commanding Officer/Rescue Services
  • Emergency Management Services Director/Chief
  • Risk Officer/Senior Pandemic Officer
  • Global Sales/Marketing Manager/Food Safety
  • Senior Government Officials
  • Health Minister & Hospital Heads
  • Public Health Director
  • Senior Manager/Director of Business Continuity Planning

More information may be obtained at New-Fields.com/ISFC.  It is our goal to keep everyone updated on pandemic prevention, preparedness, response and recovery issues that may be required in the future.