A couple of thousand years ago, makers of Kimchi (a Korean pickled cabbage side dish), long before the appearance of SARS and the Swine Flu, would never have imagined their diet staple might prevent and possibly cure these viral infections.
In April ’09, The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the influenza pandemic status to phase four warning.
What’s the difference between the yearly flu season and being infected by the A (H1N1) flu? According to the World Health Organization:
“Influenza A (H1N1) is a new virus and one to which most people have no or little immunity and, therefore, this virus could cause more infections than are seen with seasonal flu. The new influenza A (H1N1) appears to be as contagious as seasonal influenza, and is spreading fast particularly among young people (from ages 10 to 45). The severity of the disease ranges from very mild symptoms to severe illnesses that can result in death. The majorities of people who contract the virus experience the milder disease and recover without antiviral treatment or medical care. Of the more serious cases, more than half of hospitalized people had underlying health conditions or weak immune systems”. [1]
"If there is anywhere in the world that took a beating by SARS, it was Hong Kong," says Peter Cordingley, spokesman for the World Health Organization (WHO) in Manila. "The lesson was learned." Drawing on the past, Hong Kong has already issued travel advisories and stepped up controls at airports, including the use of infrared temperature scans and the detainment of travelers arriving with flu-like symptoms. [2]
The countries and overseas territories/communities that reported their first pandemic (H1N1) 2009 confirmed case(s) since the last web update (6 July 2009) as of 22 July 2009:
Afghanistan, Andorra, Belize, Bhutan, Botswana, La Réunion (French Overseas Community), Haiti, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Namibia, Sint Eustatius (Netherlands Antilles), Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, the Sudan, Tonga, Turks and Caicos Islands (UK Overseas Territory), the United Republic of Tanzania, American Samoa (US), Guam (US)
As of July 22, 2009, the Grand Total of deaths attributed to swine flu is 1,154. For updated information of reported cases visit the WHO Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 site.
A Google Map depicting areas of the swine flu outbreak provides an accurate geographical image of infection outbreaks.
How is it treated?
For suspected cases of the virus, a five-day treatment of zanamivir alone or combination of oseltamivir and either amantadine or rimantadine is initiated. For confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, either oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) may be administered. [3]
Will a facemask protect me from being infected?
We have very limited information of the effectiveness of facemasks and respirators in combating and control of influenza. If used correctly, facemasks and respirators may help reduce the risk of getting influenza, but they should be used along with other preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact and maintaining good hand hygiene.
"Unless otherwise specified, "respirator" refers to an N95 or higher filtering face piece respirator certified by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Three feet has often been used by infection control professionals to define close contact and is based on studies of respiratory infections; however, for practical purposes, this distance may range up to 6 feet. The World Health Organization uses "approximately 1 meter"; the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration uses "within 6 feet." [3]
Any prognosis for the future?
Approximately 90-95% of infected people recover despite harsh symptoms to include 100+ degree temp. headaches, extreme fatigue, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, aching muscles, basically all the common flu symptoms.
To date, caution must be taken as swine flu (H1N1) is still spreading and may become a pandemic affecting entire regions or countries. Annual Flu outbreaks are expected and predictable. However this outbreak has not followed usual flu patterns. The future speculated prognosis is split among those who believe swine flu (H1N1) will diminish and die out this summer '09 and those who believe it will return to claim more cases similar to the influenza pandemic of 1918.
So, what's this potential wonder drug at the Korean dinner table?
Since 2003 when SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) rolled across Asia, Koreans remained unaffected for the most part. Being the daily and national side dish that it is, Kimchi was promoted to status of natural preventative and cure for SARS with virtually no scientific evidence to support the claim. Believe me, as someone who eats kimchi daily and loves it so much I operate a site called http://www.LoveThatKimchi.com, I welcome and listen to the suggestions, and hope for further scientific investigation validating such claims. Imagine being obsessed with a food that is suddenly found to save lives in the face of a new and deadly health threat.
Scientists at Seoul National University fed a kimchi extract to thirteen chickens infected with avian flu. A week later, eleven of the thirteen chickens apparently recovered. To date, such studies remain unpublished and certainly not recognized by any medical or scientific community. Professor Kang of the Seoul National University who observed the thirteen chickens stated Leuconostoc (lactic acid bacteria) found in Kimchi had a positive effect on the bird flu. .
Hong Jong Hoon, a technical consultant with the Korea Agriculture Development Institute, suggested another possible and connecting factor is the ways Koreans eat most of their garlic!
Hong began his researching studies at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website where he found a connection between SARS and the corona virus. He then made his way to Stanford University's site, which lists - along with reducing stress, getting more sleep and frequently washing your hands - putting drops of garlic juice on the nostrils as a way to fight infection. Put it all together, he says, and you see why South Korea has had only a handful of suspected cases of SARS and no fatalities, despite its close proximity to China, where the virus originated, and to hard-hit Hong Kong and Taiwan. Hong concedes that many other countries make ample use of garlic in their diets, including Italy and China. But they cook their garlic; Koreans eat theirs raw in kimchi. His theory may be tough to prove, but that doesn't mean it isn't true, he says. [4]
Park Yong Woo, a doctor of family medicine at Seoul's Samsung Hospital, welcoming needed clinical testing, says, he's convinced of its healing properties.
"I'd like to compare it with an orchestra," Park says. "It's made of cabbage. But within that are a lot of healthy constituents, including garlic, ginger and chile peppers. It's very harmonious food."
Kim Man Jo, a food industry consultant and author of several books, including Kimchi, Kimchi, believes Kimchi's curing or managing properties against some infectious disease is created and found in the fermentation process - "They haven't done experiments yet, but harmful diseases can be dominated by the lactobacilli.” she says.
Depending on the variety, I know the most common nappa cabbage kimchi variety has a strong combination of cabbage, red chili pepper powder, fish sauce, lots of garlic, salt, green onions, daikon radish, sugar, and yes, even more garlic - all fermented to perfection to deliver the heavenly flavor and strongest anti-microbial punch. Withstanding the lack of research in swine flu and kimchi as a preventative or cure, research has found that these friendly bacteria to boost the immune system. Further research has shown live indigenous bacteria and chemicals they produce can penetrate the intestinal wall and stimulate growth and maintenance of immune cells. Strains of Lactobacillus can also stimulate defense cells and increase anti-viral chemicals like interferon.
To date we do have specified medical treatment and course of action despite no vaccine. While it excites me to find kimchi may possess combative properties against certain viral strains, until the claims are subjected to the "scientific method", it shall remain a folkloric home remedy alongside chicken soup. Despite the lack of evidence, If a pandemic condition swept the area I live in, I would certainly heed Westerm medical approaches and most importantly, double up on my kimchi consumption. Shall we say to each his own?
With the unfortunate number of those who've died from SARS or Swine Flu (Swine flu killing over 1100 victims worldwide as of July '09 and over 700 claimed by SARS) perhaps it will take a pandemic and desperate condition to even consider researching these currently unfounded beliefs and claims. Today, at least 168 countries and territories have reported confirmed swine flu cases.
Since I first ate kimchi in 1990, it remains a favorite daily side dish that I always look forward to. Whether it cures anything or not, it certainly makes my taste buds and overall system feel great. I just can't sit to dine at home or a Korean restaurant without it.
While these flu strains come and go or stay, those who enjoy eating kimchi (touted as one of the five healthiest foods in the world by Health Magazine) continue to get more than their share of nature's probiotic which some day may add new flu strains to it's long list of combated enemies.
In the meantime, for various flu strains we have existing vaccines and for those we don't or other still standing bugs such as the common cold, we have Gatorade, chicken soup, and old-fashioned but very effective rest.
by: Randy Stewart
Showing posts with label Swine Flu. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Swine Flu. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Swine Influenza (Flu)
Swine influenza (also called swine flu, hog flu and pig flu) is an infection of a host animal by any one of several specific types of swine influenza virus. In 2009 the media labeled as "swine flu" flu caused by 2009's new strain of swine-origin A/H1N1 pandemic virus just as it had earlier dubbed as "avian flu" flu caused by the recent Asian-linage HPAI (High Pathogenic Avian Influenza) H5N1 strain that is still endemic in many wild bird species in several countries.
A swine influenza virus (SIV) is any strain of the influenza family of viruses that is usually hosted by (is endemic in) pigs.As of 2009, the known SIV strains are the influenza C virus and the subtypes of the influenza A virus known as H1N1, H1N2, H3N1, H3N2, and H2N3. Swine flu is common throughout pig populations worldwide.
Transmission of swine influenza virus from pigs to humans is not common and does not always cause human influenza, often only resulting in the production of antibodies in the blood. The meat of the animal poses no risk of transmitting the virus when properly cooked. If transmission does cause human influenza, it is called zoonotic swine flu. People who work with pigs, especially people with intense exposures, are at increased risk of catching swine flu. In the mid-20th century, identification of influenza subtypes became possible, which allows accurate diagnosis of transmission to humans. Since then, fifty confirmed transmissions have been recorded. Rarely, these strains of swine flu can pass from human to human. In humans, the symptoms of swine flu are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general, namely chills, fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort. Pigs can also become infected with human influenza, and this appears to have happened during the 1918 flu pandemic.
The 2009 swine flu outbreak in humans is due to a new strain of influenza A virus subtype H1N1 that contains genes closely related to swine influenza.The origin of this new strain is unknown. However, the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) reports that this strain has not been isolated in pigs.This strain can be transmitted from human to human,and causes the normal symptoms of influenza.
Classification
Of the three genera of influenza viruses that cause human flu, two also cause influenza in pigs, with Influenzavirus A being common in pigs and Influenzavirus C being rare.Influenzavirus B has not been reported in pigs. Within Influenzavirus A and Influenzavirus C, the strains found in pigs and humans are largely distinct, although due to reassortment there have been transfers of genes among strains crossing swine, avian, and human species boundaries.
[edit] Influenza C
Influenza C viruses infect both humans and pigs, but do not infect birds.Transmission between pigs and humans have occurred in the past.For example, influenza C caused small outbreaks of a mild form of influenza amongst children in Japan[11] and California.Due to its limited host range and the lack of genetic diversity in influenza C, this form of influenza does not cause pandemics in humans.
Influenza A
Swine influenza is known to be caused by influenza A subtypes H1N1,H1N2,H3N1, H3N2,and H2N3.In pigs, three influenza A virus subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, and H1N2) are the most common strains worldwide.In the United States, the H1N1 subtype was exclusively prevalent among swine populations before 1998; however, since late August 1998, H3N2 subtypes have been isolated from pigs. As of 2004, H3N2 virus isolates in US swine and turkey stocks were triple reassortants, containing genes from human (HA, NA, and PB1), swine (NS, NP, and M), and avian (PB2 and PA) lineages.
Surveillance
Although there is no formal national surveillance system in the United States to determine what viruses are circulating in pigs,there is an informal surveillance network in the United States that is part of a world surveillance network.
Veterinary medical pathologist, Tracey McNamara, set up a national disease surveillance system in zoos because the zoos do active disease surveillance and many of the exotic animals housed there have broad susceptibilities. Many species fall below the radar of any federal agencies (including dogs, cats, pet prairie dogs, zoo animals, and urban wildlife), even though they may be important in the early detection of human disease outbreaks.
History
Swine influenza was first proposed to be a disease related to human influenza during the 1918 flu pandemic, when pigs became sick at the same time as humans.The first identification of an influenza virus as a cause of disease in pigs occurred about ten years later, in 1930.For the following 60 years, swine influenza strains were almost exclusively H1N1. Then, between 1997 and 2002, new strains of three different subtypes and five different genotypes emerged as causes of influenza among pigs in North America. In 1997-1998, H3N2 strains emerged. These strains, which include genes derived by reassortment from human, swine and avian viruses, have become a major cause of swine influenza in North America. Reassortment between H1N1 and H3N2 produced H1N2. In 1999 in Canada, a strain of H4N6 crossed the species barrier from birds to pigs, but was contained on a single farm.
The H1N1 form of swine flu is one of the descendants of the strain that caused the 1918 flu pandemic.As well as persisting in pigs, the descendants of the 1918 virus have also circulated in humans through the 20th century, contributing to the normal seasonal epidemics of influenza.However, direct transmission from pigs to humans is rare, with only 12 cases in the U.S. since 2005.Nevertheless, the retention of influenza strains in pigs after these strains have disappeared from the human population might make pigs a reservoir where influenza viruses could persist, later emerging to reinfect humans once human immunity to these strains has waned.
Swine flu has been reported numerous times as a zoonosis in humans, usually with limited distribution, rarely with a widespread distribution. Outbreaks in swine are common and cause significant economic losses in industry, primarily by causing stunting and extended time to market. For example, this disease costs the British meat industry about £65 million every year.
1918 pandemic in humans
The 1918 flu pandemic in humans was associated with H1N1 and influenza appearing in pigs;this may reflect a zoonosis either from swine to humans, or from humans to swine. Although it is not certain in which direction the virus was transferred, some evidence suggests that, in this case, pigs caught the disease from humans.For instance, swine influenza was only noted as a new disease of pigs in 1918, after the first large outbreaks of influenza amongst people.Although a recent phylogenetic analysis of more recent strains of influenza in humans, birds, and swine suggests that the 1918 outbreak in humans followed a reassortment event within a mammal,the exact origin of the 1918 strain remains elusive.
1976 U.S. outbreak
Main article: 1976 swine flu outbreak
On February 5, 1976, in the United States an army recruit at Fort Dix said he felt tired and weak. He died the next day and four of his fellow soldiers were later hospitalized. Two weeks after his death, health officials announced that the cause of death was a new strain of swine flu. The strain, a variant of H1N1, is known as A/New Jersey/1976 (H1N1). It was detected only from January 19 to February 9 and did not spread beyond Fort Dix.
President Ford receives swine flu vaccination
This new strain appeared to be closely related to the strain involved in the 1918 flu pandemic. Moreover, the ensuing increased surveillance uncovered another strain in circulation in the U.S.: A/Victoria/75 (H3N2) spread simultaneously, also caused illness, and persisted until March.Alarmed public-health officials decided action must be taken to head off another major pandemic, and urged President Gerald Ford that every person in the U.S. be vaccinated for the disease.
The vaccination program was plagued by delays and public relations problems.On October 1, 1976, the immunization program began and by October 11, approximately 40 million people, or about 24% of the population, had received swine flu immunizations. That same day, three senior citizens died soon after receiving their swine flu shots and there was a media outcry linking the deaths to the immunizations, despite the lack of positive proof. According to science writer Patrick Di Justo, however, by the time the truth was known — that the deaths were not proven to be related to the vaccine — it was too late. "The government had long feared mass panic about swine flu — now they feared mass panic about the swine flu vaccinations." This became a strong setback to the program.
There were reports of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a paralyzing neuromuscular disorder, affecting some people who had received swine flu immunizations. This syndrome is a rare side-effect of modern influenza vaccines, with an incidence of about one case per million vaccinations.As a result, Di Justo writes that "the public refused to trust a government-operated health program that killed old people and crippled young people." In total, less than 33% of the population had been immunized by the end of 1976. The National Influenza Immunization Program was effectively halted on December 16.
Overall, there were about 500 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), resulting in death from severe pulmonary complications for 25 people, which, according to Dr. P. Haber, were probably caused by an immunopathological reaction to the 1976 vaccine. Other influenza vaccines have not been linked to GBS, though caution is advised for certain individuals, particularly those with a history of GBS.Still, as observed by a participant in the immunization program, the vaccine killed more Americans than the disease did.
1988 zoonosis
In September 1988, a swine flu virus killed one woman and infected others. 32-year old Barbara Ann Wieners was eight months pregnant when she and her husband, Ed, became ill after visiting the hog barn at a county fair in Walworth County, Wisconsin. Barbara died eight days later, after developing pneumonia.The only pathogen identified was an H1N1 strain of swine influenza virus.Doctors were able to induce labor and deliver a healthy daughter before she died. Her husband recovered from his symptoms.
ILI was reportedly widespread among the pigs exhibited at the fair. 76% of 25 swine exhibitors aged 9 to 19 tested positive for antibody to SIV, but no serious illnesses were detected among this group. Additional studies suggested between one and three health care personnel who had contact with the patient developed mild influenza-like illnesses with antibody evidence of swine flu infection. However, there was no community outbreak.
1998 US outbreak in swine
In 1998, swine flu was found in pigs in four U.S. states. Within a year, it had spread through pig populations across the United States. Scientists found that this virus had originated in pigs as a recombinant form of flu strains from birds and humans. This outbreak confirmed that pigs can serve as a crucible where novel influenza viruses emerge as a result of the reassortment of genes from different strains.
On August 20, 2007 Department of Agriculture officers investigated the outbreak (epizootic) of swine flu in Nueva Ecija and Central Luzon, Philippines. The mortality rate is less than 10% for swine flu, unless there are complications like hog cholera. On July 27, 2007, the Philippine National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) raised a hog cholera "red alert" warning over Metro Manila and 5 regions of Luzon after the disease spread to backyard pig farms in Bulacan and Pampanga, even if these tested negative for the swine flu virus.
2009 outbreak in humans
Main article: 2009 flu pandemic
The 2009 flu outbreak is due to a new strain of subtype H1N1 not previously reported in pigs.In late April, Margaret Chan, the World Health Organization's director-general, declared a "public health emergency of international concern" under the rules of the WHO's new International Health Regulations when the first cases of the H1N1 virus were reported in the United States.Following the outbreak, on May 2, 2009, it was reported in pigs at a farm in Alberta, Canada, with a link to the outbreak in Mexico. The pigs are suspected to have caught this new strain of virus from a farm worker who recently returned from Mexico, then showed symptoms of an influenza-like illness.These are probable cases, pending confirmation by laboratory testing.
The new strain was initially described as an apparent reassortment of at least four strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1, including one strain endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in swine.Subsequent analysis suggested it was a reassortment of just two strains, both found in swine.Although initial reports identified the new strain as swine influenza (i.e., a zoonosis originating in swine), its origin is unknown. Several countries took precautionary measures to reduce the chances for a global pandemic of the disease.The Swine flu has been compared to other similar types of influenza virus in terms of mortality: "in the US it appears that for every 1000 people who get infected, about 40 people need admission to hospital and about one person dies".
Transmission
Transmission between pigs
Influenza is quite common in pigs, with about half of breeding pigs having been exposed to the virus in the US.Antibodies to the virus are also common in pigs in other countries.
The main route of transmission is through direct contact between infected and uninfected animals.These close contacts are particularly common during animal transport. Intensive farming may also increase the risk of transmission, as the pigs are raised in very close proximity to each other.The direct transfer of the virus probably occurs either by pigs touching noses, or through dried mucus. Airborne transmission through the aerosols produced by pigs coughing or sneezing are also an important means of infection.The virus usually spreads quickly through a herd, infecting all the pigs within just a few days.Transmission may also occur through wild animals, such as wild boar, which can spread the disease between farms.
Transmission to humans
People who work with poultry and swine, especially people with intense exposures, are at increased risk of zoonotic infection with influenza virus endemic in these animals, and constitute a population of human hosts in which zoonosis and reassortment can co-occur.Vaccination of these workers against influenza and surveillance for new influenza strains among this population may therefore be an important public health measure.Transmission of influenza from swine to humans who work with swine was documented in a small surveillance study performed in 2004 at the University of Iowa.This study among others forms the basis of a recommendation that people whose jobs involve handling poultry and swine be the focus of increased public health surveillance.Other professions at particular risk of infection are veterinarians and meat processing workers, although the risk of infection for both of these groups is lower than that of farm workers.
Interaction with avian H5N1 in pigs
Pigs are unusual as they can be infected with influenza strains that usually infect three different species: pigs, birds and humans.[60] This makes pigs a host where influenza viruses might exchange genes, producing new and dangerous strains.Avian influenza virus H3N2 is endemic in pigs in China and has been detected in pigs in Vietnam, increasing fears of the emergence of new variant strains.H3N2 evolved from H2N2 by antigenic shift.In August 2004, researchers in China found H5N1 in pigs.
Main symptoms of swine flu in swine.
These H5N1 infections may be quite common: in a survey of 10 apparently healthy pigs housed near poultry farms in West Java, where avian flu had broken out, five of the pig samples contained the H5N1 virus. The Indonesian government has since found similar results in the same region. Additional tests of 150 pigs outside the area were negative.
Signs and symptoms
In swine
In pigs influenza infection produces fever, lethargy, sneezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and decreased appetite.In some cases the infection can cause abortion. Although mortality is usually low (around 1-4%),the virus can produce weight loss and poor growth, causing economic loss to farmers.Infected pigs can lose up to 12 pounds of body weight over a 3 to 4 week period.
In humans
Main symptoms of swine flu in humans
Direct transmission of a swine flu virus from pigs to humans is occasionally possible (called zoonotic swine flu). In all, 50 cases are known to have occurred since the first report in medical literature in 1958, which have resulted in a total of six deaths.Of these six people, one was pregnant, one had leukemia, one had Hodgkin disease and two were known to be previously healthy.Despite these apparently low numbers of infections, the true rate of infection may be higher, since most cases only cause a very mild disease, and will probably never be reported or diagnosed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in humans the symptoms of the 2009 "swine flu" H1N1 virus are similar to those of influenza and of influenza-like illness in general. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. The 2009 outbreak has shown an increased percentage of patients reporting diarrhea and vomiting.The 2009 H1N1 virus is not zoonotic swine flu, as it is not transmitted from pigs to humans, but from person to person.
Because these symptoms are not specific to swine flu, a differential diagnosis of probable swine flu requires not only symptoms but also a high likelihood of swine flu due to the person's recent history. For example, during the 2009 swine flu outbreak in the United States, CDC advised physicians to "consider swine influenza infection in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute febrile respiratory illness who have either been in contact with persons with confirmed swine flu, or who were in one of the five U.S. states that have reported swine flu cases or in Mexico during the 7 days preceding their illness onset."A diagnosis of confirmed swine flu requires laboratory testing of a respiratory sample (a simple nose and throat swab).
Prevention
Prevention of swine influenza has three components: prevention in swine, prevention of transmission to humans, and prevention of its spread among humans.
Prevention in swine
Methods of preventing the spread of influenza among swine include facility management, herd management, and vaccination. Because much of the illness and death associated with swine flu involves secondary infection by other pathogens, control strategies that rely on vaccination may be insufficient.
Control of swine influenza by vaccination has become more difficult in recent decades, as the evolution of the virus has resulted in inconsistent responses to traditional vaccines. Standard commercial swine flu vaccines are effective in controlling the infection when the virus strains match enough to have significant cross-protection, and custom (autogenous) vaccines made from the specific viruses isolated are created and used in the more difficult cases.Present vaccination strategies for SIV control and prevention in swine farms typically include the use of one of several bivalent SIV vaccines commercially available in the United States. Of the 97 recent H3N2 isolates examined, only 41 isolates had strong serologic cross-reactions with antiserum to three commercial SIV vaccines. Since the protective ability of influenza vaccines depends primarily on the closeness of the match between the vaccine virus and the epidemic virus, the presence of nonreactive H3N2 SIV variants suggests that current commercial vaccines might not effectively protect pigs from infection with a majority of H3N2 viruses.The United States Department of Agriculture researchers say that while pig vaccination keeps pigs from getting sick, it does not block infection or shedding of the virus.
Facility management includes using disinfectants and ambient temperature to control virus in the environment. The virus is unlikely to survive outside living cells for more than two weeks, except in cold (but above freezing) conditions, and it is readily inactivated by disinfectants.Herd management includes not adding pigs carrying influenza to herds that have not been exposed to the virus. The virus survives in healthy carrier pigs for up to 3 months and can be recovered from them between outbreaks. Carrier pigs are usually responsible for the introduction of SIV into previously uninfected herds and countries, so new animals should be quarantined.After an outbreak, as immunity in exposed pigs wanes, new outbreaks of the same strain can occur.
Prevention in humans
Prevention of pig to human transmission
Swine can be infected by both avian and human influenza strains of influenza, and therefore are hosts where the antigenic shifts can occur that create new influenza strains.
The transmission from swine to human is believed to occur mainly in swine farms where farmers are in close contact with live pigs. Although strains of swine influenza are usually not able to infect humans this may occasionally happen, so farmers and veterinarians are encouraged to use a face mask when dealing with infected animals. The use of vaccines on swine to prevent their infection is a major method of limiting swine to human transmission. Risk factors that may contribute to swine-to-human transmission include smoking and not wearing gloves when working with sick animals.
Prevention of human to human transmission
Influenza spreads between humans through coughing or sneezing and people touching something with the virus on it and then touching their own nose or mouth.[76] Swine flu cannot be spread by pork products, since the virus is not transmitted through food.The swine flu in humans is most contagious during the first five days of the illness although some people, most commonly children, can remain contagious for up to ten days. Diagnosis can be made by sending a specimen, collected during the first five days for analysis.
Recommendations to prevent spread of the virus among humans include using standard infection control against influenza. This includes frequent washing of hands with soap and water or with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially after being out in public.Chance of transmission is also reduced by disinfecting household surfaces, which can be done effectively with a diluted chlorine bleach solution. Although the current trivalent influenza vaccine is unlikely to provide protection against the new 2009 H1N1 strain,vaccines against the new strain are being developed and could be ready as early as June 2009.
Experts agree that hand-washing can help prevent viral infections, including ordinary influenza and the swine flu virus. Influenza can spread in coughs or sneezes, but an increasing body of evidence shows small droplets containing the virus can linger on tabletops, telephones and other surfaces and be transferred via the fingers to the mouth, nose or eyes. Alcohol-based gel or foam hand sanitizers work well to destroy viruses and bacteria. Anyone with flu-like symptoms such as a sudden fever, cough or muscle aches should stay away from work or public transportation and should contact a doctor for advice.
Social distancing is another tactic. It means staying away from other people who might be infected and can include avoiding large gatherings, spreading out a little at work, or perhaps staying home and lying low if an infection is spreading in a community. Public health and other responsible authorities have action plans which may request or require social distancing actions depending on the severity of the outbreak.
In swine
As swine influenza is rarely fatal to pigs, little treatment beyond rest and supportive care is required.Instead veterinary efforts are focused on preventing the spread of the virus throughout the farm, or to other farms.Vaccination and animal management techniques are most important in these efforts. Antibiotics are also used to treat this disease, which although they have no effect against the influenza virus, do help prevent bacterial pneumonia and other secondary infections in influenza-weakened herds.
In humans
If a person becomes sick with swine flu, antiviral drugs can make the illness milder and make the patient feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). Beside antivirals, palliative care, at home or in hospital, focuses on controlling fevers and maintaining fluid balance. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the use of Tamiflu (oseltamivir) or Relenza (zanamivir) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with swine influenza viruses; however, the majority of people infected with the virus make a full recovery without requiring medical attention or antiviral drugs.The virus isolates in the 2009 outbreak have been found resistant to amantadine and rimantadine.
In the U.S., on April 27, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued Emergency Use Authorizations to make available Relenza and Tamiflu antiviral drugs to treat the swine influenza virus in cases for which they are currently unapproved. The agency issued these EUAs to allow treatment of patients younger than the current approval allows and to allow the widespread distribution of the drugs, including by non-licensed volunteers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swine_influenza
Thursday, June 11, 2009
World now at the start of 2009 influenza pandemic
Dr Margaret Chan
Director-General of the World Health Organization
Ladies and gentlemen,
In late April, WHO announced the emergence of a novel influenza A virus.
This particular H1N1 strain has not circulated previously in humans. The virus is entirely new.
The virus is contagious, spreading easily from one person to another, and from one country to another. As of today, nearly 30,000 confirmed cases have been reported in 74 countries.
This is only part of the picture. With few exceptions, countries with large numbers of cases are those with good surveillance and testing procedures in place.
Spread in several countries can no longer be...
traced to clearly-defined chains of human-to-human transmission. Further spread is considered inevitable.
I have conferred with leading influenza experts, virologists, and public health officials. In line with procedures set out in the International Health Regulations, I have sought guidance and advice from an Emergency Committee established for this purpose.
On the basis of available evidence, and these expert assessments of the evidence, the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met.
I have therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6.
The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic.
We are in the earliest days of the pandemic. The virus is spreading under a close and careful watch.
No previous pandemic has been detected so early or watched so closely, in real-time, right at the very beginning. The world can now reap the benefits of investments, over the last five years, in pandemic preparedness.
We have a head start. This places us in a strong position. But it also creates a demand for advice and reassurance in the midst of limited data and considerable scientific uncertainty.
Thanks to close monitoring, thorough investigations, and frank reporting from countries, we have some early snapshots depicting spread of the virus and the range of illness it can cause.
We know, too, that this early, patchy picture can change very quickly. The virus writes the rules and this one, like all influenza viruses, can change the rules, without rhyme or reason, at any time.
Globally, we have good reason to believe that this pandemic, at least in its early days, will be of moderate severity. As we know from experience, severity can vary, depending on many factors, from one country to another.
On present evidence, the overwhelming majority of patients experience mild symptoms and make a rapid and full recovery, often in the absence of any form of medical treatment.
Worldwide, the number of deaths is small. Each and every one of these deaths is tragic, and we have to brace ourselves to see more. However, we do not expect to see a sudden and dramatic jump in the number of severe or fatal infections.
We know that the novel H1N1 virus preferentially infects younger people. In nearly all areas with large and sustained outbreaks, the majority of cases have occurred in people under the age of 25 years.
In some of these countries, around 2% of cases have developed severe illness, often with very rapid progression to life-threatening pneumonia.
Most cases of severe and fatal infections have been in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years.
This pattern is significantly different from that seen during epidemics of seasonal influenza, when most deaths occur in frail elderly people.
Many, though not all, severe cases have occurred in people with underlying chronic conditions. Based on limited, preliminary data, conditions most frequently seen include respiratory diseases, notably asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and obesity.
At the same time, it is important to note that around one third to half of the severe and fatal infections are occurring in previously healthy young and middle-aged people.
Without question, pregnant women are at increased risk of complications. This heightened risk takes on added importance for a virus, like this one, that preferentially infects younger age groups.
Finally, and perhaps of greatest concern, we do not know how this virus will behave under conditions typically found in the developing world. To date, the vast majority of cases have been detected and investigated in comparatively well-off countries.
Let me underscore two of many reasons for this concern. First, more than 99% of maternal deaths, which are a marker of poor quality care during pregnancy and childbirth, occurs in the developing world.
Second, around 85% of the burden of chronic diseases is concentrated in low- and middle-income countries.
Although the pandemic appears to have moderate severity in comparatively well-off countries, it is prudent to anticipate a bleaker picture as the virus spreads to areas with limited resources, poor health care, and a high prevalence of underlying medical problems.
Ladies and gentlemen,
A characteristic feature of pandemics is their rapid spread to all parts of the world. In the previous century, this spread has typically taken around 6 to 9 months, even during times when most international travel was by ship or rail.
Countries should prepare to see cases, or the further spread of cases, in the near future. Countries where outbreaks appear to have peaked should prepare for a second wave of infection.
Guidance on specific protective and precautionary measures has been sent to ministries of health in all countries. Countries with no or only a few cases should remain vigilant.
Countries with widespread transmission should focus on the appropriate management of patients. The testing and investigation of patients should be limited, as such measures are resource intensive and can very quickly strain capacities.
WHO has been in close dialogue with influenza vaccine manufacturers. I understand that production of vaccines for seasonal influenza will be completed soon, and that full capacity will be available to ensure the largest possible supply of pandemic vaccine in the months to come.
Pending the availability of vaccines, several non-pharmaceutical interventions can confer some protection.
WHO continues to recommend no restrictions on travel and no border closures.
Influenza pandemics, whether moderate or severe, are remarkable events because of the almost universal susceptibility of the world’s population to infection.
We are all in this together, and we will all get through this, together.
Thank you.
http://www.who.int
Director-General of the World Health Organization
Ladies and gentlemen,
In late April, WHO announced the emergence of a novel influenza A virus.
This particular H1N1 strain has not circulated previously in humans. The virus is entirely new.
The virus is contagious, spreading easily from one person to another, and from one country to another. As of today, nearly 30,000 confirmed cases have been reported in 74 countries.
This is only part of the picture. With few exceptions, countries with large numbers of cases are those with good surveillance and testing procedures in place.
Spread in several countries can no longer be...
traced to clearly-defined chains of human-to-human transmission. Further spread is considered inevitable.
I have conferred with leading influenza experts, virologists, and public health officials. In line with procedures set out in the International Health Regulations, I have sought guidance and advice from an Emergency Committee established for this purpose.
On the basis of available evidence, and these expert assessments of the evidence, the scientific criteria for an influenza pandemic have been met.
I have therefore decided to raise the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6.
The world is now at the start of the 2009 influenza pandemic.
We are in the earliest days of the pandemic. The virus is spreading under a close and careful watch.
No previous pandemic has been detected so early or watched so closely, in real-time, right at the very beginning. The world can now reap the benefits of investments, over the last five years, in pandemic preparedness.
We have a head start. This places us in a strong position. But it also creates a demand for advice and reassurance in the midst of limited data and considerable scientific uncertainty.
Thanks to close monitoring, thorough investigations, and frank reporting from countries, we have some early snapshots depicting spread of the virus and the range of illness it can cause.
We know, too, that this early, patchy picture can change very quickly. The virus writes the rules and this one, like all influenza viruses, can change the rules, without rhyme or reason, at any time.
Globally, we have good reason to believe that this pandemic, at least in its early days, will be of moderate severity. As we know from experience, severity can vary, depending on many factors, from one country to another.
On present evidence, the overwhelming majority of patients experience mild symptoms and make a rapid and full recovery, often in the absence of any form of medical treatment.
Worldwide, the number of deaths is small. Each and every one of these deaths is tragic, and we have to brace ourselves to see more. However, we do not expect to see a sudden and dramatic jump in the number of severe or fatal infections.
We know that the novel H1N1 virus preferentially infects younger people. In nearly all areas with large and sustained outbreaks, the majority of cases have occurred in people under the age of 25 years.
In some of these countries, around 2% of cases have developed severe illness, often with very rapid progression to life-threatening pneumonia.
Most cases of severe and fatal infections have been in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years.
This pattern is significantly different from that seen during epidemics of seasonal influenza, when most deaths occur in frail elderly people.
Many, though not all, severe cases have occurred in people with underlying chronic conditions. Based on limited, preliminary data, conditions most frequently seen include respiratory diseases, notably asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and obesity.
At the same time, it is important to note that around one third to half of the severe and fatal infections are occurring in previously healthy young and middle-aged people.
Without question, pregnant women are at increased risk of complications. This heightened risk takes on added importance for a virus, like this one, that preferentially infects younger age groups.
Finally, and perhaps of greatest concern, we do not know how this virus will behave under conditions typically found in the developing world. To date, the vast majority of cases have been detected and investigated in comparatively well-off countries.
Let me underscore two of many reasons for this concern. First, more than 99% of maternal deaths, which are a marker of poor quality care during pregnancy and childbirth, occurs in the developing world.
Second, around 85% of the burden of chronic diseases is concentrated in low- and middle-income countries.
Although the pandemic appears to have moderate severity in comparatively well-off countries, it is prudent to anticipate a bleaker picture as the virus spreads to areas with limited resources, poor health care, and a high prevalence of underlying medical problems.
Ladies and gentlemen,
A characteristic feature of pandemics is their rapid spread to all parts of the world. In the previous century, this spread has typically taken around 6 to 9 months, even during times when most international travel was by ship or rail.
Countries should prepare to see cases, or the further spread of cases, in the near future. Countries where outbreaks appear to have peaked should prepare for a second wave of infection.
Guidance on specific protective and precautionary measures has been sent to ministries of health in all countries. Countries with no or only a few cases should remain vigilant.
Countries with widespread transmission should focus on the appropriate management of patients. The testing and investigation of patients should be limited, as such measures are resource intensive and can very quickly strain capacities.
WHO has been in close dialogue with influenza vaccine manufacturers. I understand that production of vaccines for seasonal influenza will be completed soon, and that full capacity will be available to ensure the largest possible supply of pandemic vaccine in the months to come.
Pending the availability of vaccines, several non-pharmaceutical interventions can confer some protection.
WHO continues to recommend no restrictions on travel and no border closures.
Influenza pandemics, whether moderate or severe, are remarkable events because of the almost universal susceptibility of the world’s population to infection.
We are all in this together, and we will all get through this, together.
Thank you.
http://www.who.int
Friday, May 22, 2009
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
The guidelines state: INFORM / THE HIGHEST LEVEL / BASIC HYGIENE SOLUTIONS
Swine Flu:
The current issue of the swine flu, this is caused by an Influenza A type virus.
This determines the characteristics, such as shape and make up of the virus.
Byotrol from Northern Environmental kills this type of virus...
It is the infections that are caused by the swine flu virus that are difficult to control/treat.
Byocare Handmousse used on hard surfaces or hands kills the virus it does not treat the disease. Byotrol helps ‘prevent’ and protect – EN1500 with 30 minute and 16 hours control!
This may not be as direct proof as we like but we can be very confident that Byotrol is effective against flu virus
Below are some guidelines on our website – I have highlighted in red several of the many key features whereby simple, back to basic measures underpinned by the Byotrol Technology can help.
Swine Flu - Byotrol Publishes Guide Lines To Help Businesses
27th Apr 2009
Pandemic Flu Policy & Contingency Plan
1. INTRODUCTION
A Swine Flu ( influenza) pandemic has the potential to severely affect UK
Business, employees and their families, and requires specific planning over and above that made for disasters It is recommended the planning focuses on:
• Raising employees awareness of the threat of a pandemic and testing staff preparedness:
• Maintaining health surveillance and hygiene measures:
• Producing action plans that are specific to each of the business’s locations, taking into account local healthcare provision and regulatory systems governing drug licensing and stockpiling : and
• Enhancing protection for high risk and vulnerable employees.
2 Background
Pandemic influenza (flu) is a type of influenza that occurs every few decades and which spreads rapidly to affect most countries and regions around the world.
Unlike the “ordinary” flu that occurs every winter in the UK, pandemic flu can occur at any time of year.
Pandemic flu is much more serious than “ordinary” flu. As much as a quarter of the population may be affected – possibly more.
Pandemic flu is likely to cause the same symptoms as ordinary flu but the symptoms may be more severe because nobody will have any immunity or protection against the particular virus.
Swine influenza or “Swine Flu” is a contagious disease caused by mutation in influenza A viruses.
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
3 Planning for a PANDEMIC
3.1 The CEO should be the business’s designated pandemic coordinator and a pandemic response team from across the business should be set up and trained in clearly defined rolls.
3.2 The functions of the pandemic response team includes
• Maintaining the team’s own awareness of global developments in Swine Flu (including guidance on containment strategies and vaccines)
• Developing training and awareness materials for the business
• Briefing the Management Board
• Ensuring links are maintained with external stakeholders in planning for a pandemic flu (e.g. suppliers, customers and where relevant the Public)
PANDEMIC RESPONSE
Working practices and social distancing
• Employees who are fit to return to work following an absence due to pandemic flu (and who have therefore developed immunity to the disease) might be considered for high-risk, essential roles.
• The company should establish flexible working policies, enabling line managers to agree home working, different shift patterns, or relocation to a site more local to the employee’s home where appropriate.
• Employees will be required to work at least one metre away from colleagues to ensure social distancing and managers will reconfigure work-site layouts to enable this to take place
• Other social distancing responses are likely to include:
o Absolutely no shared use of Telephones and mobiles
o Advising employees to avoid face-to-face meetings and to use telephone and internet services instead, where possible
o If this is not possible, meeting only in a large room and maintaining a distance of at least one metre between participants
o Advising employees to avoid crowded places (lifts) or heavily populated gatherings (e.g. sporting events)
o Advising employees to avoid travelling at busy periods on public transport
• Essential workers who are totally reliant on public transport may be offered dedicated transport to and from work
Infection Control
• During a pandemic the business should seek to reduce the overall and specific risks to members of staff by taking appropriate infection control actions (e.g. strengthening guidance on hand washing, unnecessary contact such as hand shaking and isolataion of any member of staff with symptoms such as coughing)
• Basic health protection advice including the following guidance:
o Avoid close contact
o Staying at home when sick or sickening
o Covering completely with disposable tissues mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing sanitising hands afterwards
o Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth
• Additional protection measures will be taken to ensure that influenza does not spread through contaminated objects and surfaces, such as handles, railings and counters. Surfaces touched by hands will be cleaned at least daily using Byotrol products.
• Staff with flu-like symptoms will be required to stay at home until the symptoms disappear and will be allowed in the workplace only in extreme circumstances
• Staff developing symptoms at work will be accommodated in a designated isolation room while arrangements are made to transport them home. Precautions will be introduced for all those entering and leaving this room.
•
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
Staff at risk of developing influenza-related complications (e.g. pregnant workers and those with compromised immune systems) will be reassigned from high-risk work sites and locations in the event of a pandemic.
Business and personal travel
• Only essential business travel should be considered during a pandemic and procedures for approving travel need to be tightened, requiring authorisation from a senior manager
• The pandemic response team should monitor travel plans and new procedures for notifying employees’ location during periods of business travel will be introduced in the event of a pandemic
• Staff required to visit pandemic-affected areas on business will be provided with appropriate health advice and personal protective equipment (e.g. masks, Byotrol based handwipes) and employees will have the right to refuse to travel to such areas
• Staff visiting affected areas for non-business purposes during a pandemic may need to be required to stay away from work for a period of quarantine on unpaid leave.
3.3 Goods services and functions of the business that are essential to its operations and survival will be defined and the Business will:
• Carry out devolution planning: i.e. plan which services can be carried out by other sites:
• Develop an order of succession: i.e. plan which services can be carried out by personnel other than those who normally given the task and train non-essential back-up staff to perform essential tasks
• Stockpile small quantities of essential supplies, materials and equipment
• Ensure that maintenance plans are up to date to guarantee that all equipment essential to the business’s operation is capable of sustained operation in the event of a pandemic
• Prepare time lines for how long it will be possible for the Business to carry out its essential functions without critical supplies, personnel and equipment
• Produce forecasts of employee sickness absence during a pandemic flu
• Put in place policies to enable flexible working (e.g. home- working ) in the event of a pandemic flu:
• Put in place a pandemic response team that will take steps to heighten awareness of the Business infection control procedures, particularly provisions covering hand hygiene:
• Provide specific training for all employees and students on personal, workplace and family protection and actions to take as a pandemic develops;
• Prepare employee support services, including grief counselling and psychiatric care ;
• Ensure that adequate supplies of infection control materials (Byotrol mousse for hand hygiene, surface sprays, wipes, gloves and masks) are held in preparedness for a pandemic.
The Byotrol hand hygiene programme is just one element of our ‘Hygiene Revolution’ whereby we can challenge and manage the Critical Control Points within food processing / preparation / service:
Floors / Food Contact surfaces / Hands
Product offering:
Hand Hygiene / Skin care Unit Pack End user unit price
Byocare Mousse
50ml 30 x 50ml £2.99
Byocare Mousse
600ml 12 x 600ml £8.50
Byocare Mousse
5L - re-fill 4 x 5L £16.00
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
FOOD MANUFACTURING
For Food-processing, food-preparation and food-service there are complex hygiene issues such as:
Food preparation: deli, bakery, on site food prep: sandwiches etc
Floors: HD Food Safe Degreaser/ food contact surface Byosan, Cleaner Sanitiser + (Ready for use), Byowipe (Byosan liquid inside)
Food storage, display and check out – floors, shelving, check-out conveyors
Broad spectrum usage: Byowipe – kills and protects / multi surface usage
People ‘hands’: one of the major contributing factor for food spoilage and pathogens – some statistics claim upto 80% can be attributed to poor hand hygiene
(General public: circa 40% of men and 20% of women do not wash their hands after using the toilet)
(Catering workers: circa 50% do not wash their hands prior to preparing food)
Byocare – hand hygiene programme: soap, sanitiser, dispensers, training programme
by: Simon Doderer
Swine Flu:
The current issue of the swine flu, this is caused by an Influenza A type virus.
This determines the characteristics, such as shape and make up of the virus.
Byotrol from Northern Environmental kills this type of virus...
It is the infections that are caused by the swine flu virus that are difficult to control/treat.
Byocare Handmousse used on hard surfaces or hands kills the virus it does not treat the disease. Byotrol helps ‘prevent’ and protect – EN1500 with 30 minute and 16 hours control!
This may not be as direct proof as we like but we can be very confident that Byotrol is effective against flu virus
Below are some guidelines on our website – I have highlighted in red several of the many key features whereby simple, back to basic measures underpinned by the Byotrol Technology can help.
Swine Flu - Byotrol Publishes Guide Lines To Help Businesses
27th Apr 2009
Pandemic Flu Policy & Contingency Plan
1. INTRODUCTION
A Swine Flu ( influenza) pandemic has the potential to severely affect UK
Business, employees and their families, and requires specific planning over and above that made for disasters It is recommended the planning focuses on:
• Raising employees awareness of the threat of a pandemic and testing staff preparedness:
• Maintaining health surveillance and hygiene measures:
• Producing action plans that are specific to each of the business’s locations, taking into account local healthcare provision and regulatory systems governing drug licensing and stockpiling : and
• Enhancing protection for high risk and vulnerable employees.
2 Background
Pandemic influenza (flu) is a type of influenza that occurs every few decades and which spreads rapidly to affect most countries and regions around the world.
Unlike the “ordinary” flu that occurs every winter in the UK, pandemic flu can occur at any time of year.
Pandemic flu is much more serious than “ordinary” flu. As much as a quarter of the population may be affected – possibly more.
Pandemic flu is likely to cause the same symptoms as ordinary flu but the symptoms may be more severe because nobody will have any immunity or protection against the particular virus.
Swine influenza or “Swine Flu” is a contagious disease caused by mutation in influenza A viruses.
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
3 Planning for a PANDEMIC
3.1 The CEO should be the business’s designated pandemic coordinator and a pandemic response team from across the business should be set up and trained in clearly defined rolls.
3.2 The functions of the pandemic response team includes
• Maintaining the team’s own awareness of global developments in Swine Flu (including guidance on containment strategies and vaccines)
• Developing training and awareness materials for the business
• Briefing the Management Board
• Ensuring links are maintained with external stakeholders in planning for a pandemic flu (e.g. suppliers, customers and where relevant the Public)
PANDEMIC RESPONSE
Working practices and social distancing
• Employees who are fit to return to work following an absence due to pandemic flu (and who have therefore developed immunity to the disease) might be considered for high-risk, essential roles.
• The company should establish flexible working policies, enabling line managers to agree home working, different shift patterns, or relocation to a site more local to the employee’s home where appropriate.
• Employees will be required to work at least one metre away from colleagues to ensure social distancing and managers will reconfigure work-site layouts to enable this to take place
• Other social distancing responses are likely to include:
o Absolutely no shared use of Telephones and mobiles
o Advising employees to avoid face-to-face meetings and to use telephone and internet services instead, where possible
o If this is not possible, meeting only in a large room and maintaining a distance of at least one metre between participants
o Advising employees to avoid crowded places (lifts) or heavily populated gatherings (e.g. sporting events)
o Advising employees to avoid travelling at busy periods on public transport
• Essential workers who are totally reliant on public transport may be offered dedicated transport to and from work
Infection Control
• During a pandemic the business should seek to reduce the overall and specific risks to members of staff by taking appropriate infection control actions (e.g. strengthening guidance on hand washing, unnecessary contact such as hand shaking and isolataion of any member of staff with symptoms such as coughing)
• Basic health protection advice including the following guidance:
o Avoid close contact
o Staying at home when sick or sickening
o Covering completely with disposable tissues mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing sanitising hands afterwards
o Avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth
• Additional protection measures will be taken to ensure that influenza does not spread through contaminated objects and surfaces, such as handles, railings and counters. Surfaces touched by hands will be cleaned at least daily using Byotrol products.
• Staff with flu-like symptoms will be required to stay at home until the symptoms disappear and will be allowed in the workplace only in extreme circumstances
• Staff developing symptoms at work will be accommodated in a designated isolation room while arrangements are made to transport them home. Precautions will be introduced for all those entering and leaving this room.
•
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
Staff at risk of developing influenza-related complications (e.g. pregnant workers and those with compromised immune systems) will be reassigned from high-risk work sites and locations in the event of a pandemic.
Business and personal travel
• Only essential business travel should be considered during a pandemic and procedures for approving travel need to be tightened, requiring authorisation from a senior manager
• The pandemic response team should monitor travel plans and new procedures for notifying employees’ location during periods of business travel will be introduced in the event of a pandemic
• Staff required to visit pandemic-affected areas on business will be provided with appropriate health advice and personal protective equipment (e.g. masks, Byotrol based handwipes) and employees will have the right to refuse to travel to such areas
• Staff visiting affected areas for non-business purposes during a pandemic may need to be required to stay away from work for a period of quarantine on unpaid leave.
3.3 Goods services and functions of the business that are essential to its operations and survival will be defined and the Business will:
• Carry out devolution planning: i.e. plan which services can be carried out by other sites:
• Develop an order of succession: i.e. plan which services can be carried out by personnel other than those who normally given the task and train non-essential back-up staff to perform essential tasks
• Stockpile small quantities of essential supplies, materials and equipment
• Ensure that maintenance plans are up to date to guarantee that all equipment essential to the business’s operation is capable of sustained operation in the event of a pandemic
• Prepare time lines for how long it will be possible for the Business to carry out its essential functions without critical supplies, personnel and equipment
• Produce forecasts of employee sickness absence during a pandemic flu
• Put in place policies to enable flexible working (e.g. home- working ) in the event of a pandemic flu:
• Put in place a pandemic response team that will take steps to heighten awareness of the Business infection control procedures, particularly provisions covering hand hygiene:
• Provide specific training for all employees and students on personal, workplace and family protection and actions to take as a pandemic develops;
• Prepare employee support services, including grief counselling and psychiatric care ;
• Ensure that adequate supplies of infection control materials (Byotrol mousse for hand hygiene, surface sprays, wipes, gloves and masks) are held in preparedness for a pandemic.
The Byotrol hand hygiene programme is just one element of our ‘Hygiene Revolution’ whereby we can challenge and manage the Critical Control Points within food processing / preparation / service:
Floors / Food Contact surfaces / Hands
Product offering:
Hand Hygiene / Skin care Unit Pack End user unit price
Byocare Mousse
50ml 30 x 50ml £2.99
Byocare Mousse
600ml 12 x 600ml £8.50
Byocare Mousse
5L - re-fill 4 x 5L £16.00
Swine Flu - How To Protect Yourself Quickly & Easily
FOOD MANUFACTURING
For Food-processing, food-preparation and food-service there are complex hygiene issues such as:
Food preparation: deli, bakery, on site food prep: sandwiches etc
Floors: HD Food Safe Degreaser/ food contact surface Byosan, Cleaner Sanitiser + (Ready for use), Byowipe (Byosan liquid inside)
Food storage, display and check out – floors, shelving, check-out conveyors
Broad spectrum usage: Byowipe – kills and protects / multi surface usage
People ‘hands’: one of the major contributing factor for food spoilage and pathogens – some statistics claim upto 80% can be attributed to poor hand hygiene
(General public: circa 40% of men and 20% of women do not wash their hands after using the toilet)
(Catering workers: circa 50% do not wash their hands prior to preparing food)
Byocare – hand hygiene programme: soap, sanitiser, dispensers, training programme
by: Simon Doderer
Tips On How To Prevent Catching Swine Flu
With many deaths recorded in Mexico, a new strain of swine flu virus is sweeping the globe. Several nations have suspect cases reported, from as far away as Hong Kong, Canada, Israel France and New Zealand.
Caused by type A influenza Swine flu, is a respiratory disease. Studies have shown that the swine flu, H1N1, is...
common throughout pig populations worldwide, with 25% of all animals displaying antibody evidence of having the disease. These are scary facts.
Swine flu viruses don't usually infect humans. The current swine flu, however, has a toxic mix of a gene segment from bird flu, a segment from human flu, plus two genes from pig flu. Pigs are well known as being the earth's most efficient 'mixing bowls'. The completely unknown virus is creating havoc, as humans have no immunity to it.
Swine flu can’t be contacted through eating pork products, however human-to-human infections are happening, without the victims having any contact with infected animals.
Here are a few simple precautions you need to take to provide effective self-protection against the threat of a global pandemic:
•Make sure you cover your nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Ensure you get rid of the tissue in the rubbish can after you use it. Keep a mask handy in case anyone sneezes or coughs around you.
One sneeze alone projects 100,000 droplets into the air at a speed of approximately 90 mph, settling on ATM and computer keypads, elevator buttons, door knobs, escalator railings and grocery trolley handles.
British researchers report that in a subway rail-station at rush hour, as high as 10 percent of all travellers can come in contact with the spray and residue from just one sneeze. That means as many as 150 commuters can be infected by one uncovered cough, or sneeze. The stream of air hurtling from a cough, moves at speeds that are close to 600 mph.
•Always wash your hands frequently, for up to 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Always wash your hands thoroughly prior to eating and whenever possible do not eat with your hands.
It is estimated that around 80 percent of all infections are passed on by hands. If you aren't able to wash your hands, use hand-sanitizers which have 60% alcohol content. These are readily available in handy pocket size containers.
•Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and definitely avoid kissing on the cheeks.
Germs are spread more quickly through that method of transmission.
•Try to stay away from sick people. Isolation and keeping your distance are your most efficient protective measures.
•Stay home from work or school if you get sick and keep your contact with others limited, so as to not infect anyone else.
•Keep aware and recognize any abnormal symptoms. If you are in doubt, go and seek professional advice.
•Ensure you eat well, closely monitor your sleep habits and make sure you exercise regularly. Upgrade your vitamin C intake and ensure you practice good hygiene.
Swine flu can be treated. Though it is unaffected by two of the four drugs approved for treating flu, two new arrivals, Tamiflu and Relenza have proven to be successful.
Mexico has hundreds of industrial-scale pig facilities, known as 'confined animal feeding farms', where the hogs are packed in tight rows. Thousands of pigs are contained in indoor pens and grain-fed for the market. Breeding sows are baled-up in small metal crates where they spend most of their lives, either pregnant or nursing a new litter of piglets.
Up until now, Mexican hog workers, infected with swine flu, have rarely been the cause of infecting other humans, except for close family members.
by: Wendy Stenberg-Tendys
Caused by type A influenza Swine flu, is a respiratory disease. Studies have shown that the swine flu, H1N1, is...
common throughout pig populations worldwide, with 25% of all animals displaying antibody evidence of having the disease. These are scary facts.
Swine flu viruses don't usually infect humans. The current swine flu, however, has a toxic mix of a gene segment from bird flu, a segment from human flu, plus two genes from pig flu. Pigs are well known as being the earth's most efficient 'mixing bowls'. The completely unknown virus is creating havoc, as humans have no immunity to it.
Swine flu can’t be contacted through eating pork products, however human-to-human infections are happening, without the victims having any contact with infected animals.
Here are a few simple precautions you need to take to provide effective self-protection against the threat of a global pandemic:
•Make sure you cover your nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. Ensure you get rid of the tissue in the rubbish can after you use it. Keep a mask handy in case anyone sneezes or coughs around you.
One sneeze alone projects 100,000 droplets into the air at a speed of approximately 90 mph, settling on ATM and computer keypads, elevator buttons, door knobs, escalator railings and grocery trolley handles.
British researchers report that in a subway rail-station at rush hour, as high as 10 percent of all travellers can come in contact with the spray and residue from just one sneeze. That means as many as 150 commuters can be infected by one uncovered cough, or sneeze. The stream of air hurtling from a cough, moves at speeds that are close to 600 mph.
•Always wash your hands frequently, for up to 20 seconds, with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Always wash your hands thoroughly prior to eating and whenever possible do not eat with your hands.
It is estimated that around 80 percent of all infections are passed on by hands. If you aren't able to wash your hands, use hand-sanitizers which have 60% alcohol content. These are readily available in handy pocket size containers.
•Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and definitely avoid kissing on the cheeks.
Germs are spread more quickly through that method of transmission.
•Try to stay away from sick people. Isolation and keeping your distance are your most efficient protective measures.
•Stay home from work or school if you get sick and keep your contact with others limited, so as to not infect anyone else.
•Keep aware and recognize any abnormal symptoms. If you are in doubt, go and seek professional advice.
•Ensure you eat well, closely monitor your sleep habits and make sure you exercise regularly. Upgrade your vitamin C intake and ensure you practice good hygiene.
Swine flu can be treated. Though it is unaffected by two of the four drugs approved for treating flu, two new arrivals, Tamiflu and Relenza have proven to be successful.
Mexico has hundreds of industrial-scale pig facilities, known as 'confined animal feeding farms', where the hogs are packed in tight rows. Thousands of pigs are contained in indoor pens and grain-fed for the market. Breeding sows are baled-up in small metal crates where they spend most of their lives, either pregnant or nursing a new litter of piglets.
Up until now, Mexican hog workers, infected with swine flu, have rarely been the cause of infecting other humans, except for close family members.
by: Wendy Stenberg-Tendys
Confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus in three countries in the WHO European Region
On 27 April 2009, National Focal Points (NFPs) for the International Health Regulations (IHR) informed WHO/Europe about the detection of four confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection: two cases...
each in Spain and the United Kingdom. On 28 April 2009, the NFP of Israel reported an additional confirmed case.
The five people with confirmed cases in the WHO European Region presented with mild illness and had recently returned from travel in Mexico. As of 27 April 2009, 43 additional people in 8 countries in the Region were under investigation for infection.
Situation in the European Region
The reports of confirmed cases from Israel, Spain and the United Kingdom reflect important steps taken by the national authorities to ensure early detection and response in association with the evolving situation in the Americas. National authorities are advised to intensify surveillance efforts for the early detection of people who may be infected with swine influenza A (H1N1) virus and may transmit the infection to others.
On 27 April 2009, the WHO Regional Director for Europe, Dr Marc Danzon, informed the health ministers, chief medical officers and NFPs in the Region of WHO/Europe’s response. He acknowledged that cooperation between WHO and national and international counterparts was crucial in preparing for and responding to the potential spread of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus in the European Region.
WHO/Europe is working closely with the Directorate-General for Health and Consumers of the European Commission and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Similarly, WHO is in close consultation with development partners, United Nations agencies and other international organizations (including those involved in trade and travel), and manufacturers of vaccines, drugs, diagnostic equipment and personal protection equipment.
Global situation
The five cases in the WHO European Region are the first confirmed cases identified outside the Americas. The WHO headquarters web pages on swine influenza offer additional information on the global situation, including Canada, Mexico and the United States of America.
Change in pandemic alert level
On 27 April 2009, the second meeting of the Emergency Committee was convened as stipulated under the IHR. Following the Committee’s advice, the WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan, decided to change the current phase of pandemic alert from level 3 to level 4.
This decision was based primarily on epidemiological data demonstrating human-to-human transmission and the ability of the virus to cause community-level outbreaks. As further information becomes available, WHO may decide either to revert to phase 3 or to raise the level of alert further.
The outcome of the Emergency Committee’s meeting included recommendations to countries not to close borders or to restrict international travel. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for those developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention. In addition, WHO will facilitate the process needed to develop a vaccine effective against the A (H1N1) virus.
WHO published interim guidance for the surveillance of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) virus, including case definition and requirements for reporting to WHO, on 27 April 2009.
each in Spain and the United Kingdom. On 28 April 2009, the NFP of Israel reported an additional confirmed case.
The five people with confirmed cases in the WHO European Region presented with mild illness and had recently returned from travel in Mexico. As of 27 April 2009, 43 additional people in 8 countries in the Region were under investigation for infection.
Situation in the European Region
The reports of confirmed cases from Israel, Spain and the United Kingdom reflect important steps taken by the national authorities to ensure early detection and response in association with the evolving situation in the Americas. National authorities are advised to intensify surveillance efforts for the early detection of people who may be infected with swine influenza A (H1N1) virus and may transmit the infection to others.
On 27 April 2009, the WHO Regional Director for Europe, Dr Marc Danzon, informed the health ministers, chief medical officers and NFPs in the Region of WHO/Europe’s response. He acknowledged that cooperation between WHO and national and international counterparts was crucial in preparing for and responding to the potential spread of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus in the European Region.
WHO/Europe is working closely with the Directorate-General for Health and Consumers of the European Commission and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Similarly, WHO is in close consultation with development partners, United Nations agencies and other international organizations (including those involved in trade and travel), and manufacturers of vaccines, drugs, diagnostic equipment and personal protection equipment.
Global situation
The five cases in the WHO European Region are the first confirmed cases identified outside the Americas. The WHO headquarters web pages on swine influenza offer additional information on the global situation, including Canada, Mexico and the United States of America.
Change in pandemic alert level
On 27 April 2009, the second meeting of the Emergency Committee was convened as stipulated under the IHR. Following the Committee’s advice, the WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan, decided to change the current phase of pandemic alert from level 3 to level 4.
This decision was based primarily on epidemiological data demonstrating human-to-human transmission and the ability of the virus to cause community-level outbreaks. As further information becomes available, WHO may decide either to revert to phase 3 or to raise the level of alert further.
The outcome of the Emergency Committee’s meeting included recommendations to countries not to close borders or to restrict international travel. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for those developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention. In addition, WHO will facilitate the process needed to develop a vaccine effective against the A (H1N1) virus.
WHO published interim guidance for the surveillance of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) virus, including case definition and requirements for reporting to WHO, on 27 April 2009.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
World-Influenza A(H1N1)
28 April 2009 -- Several countries have confirmed cases of influenza A(H1N1). General information on the influenza A(H1N1) have been posted on the WHO website.
WHO does not recommend...
restricting international travel. As usual it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.
Regarding the risk of being infected by an influenza virus, travellers are advised, whenever possible, to avoid crowded enclosed spaces and close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Hand-washing after direct contact with ill persons or their environment may reduce the risk of illness. Ill persons should be encouraged to practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, wash hands).
Regarding specific measures related to protection against influenza A(H1N1), information is presently insufficient to make recommendation on the use of antivirals. For the use of antivirals in treatment of influenza A(H1N1) virus infection, the clinicians have to make decisions based on the clinical and epidemiological assessment and harms and benefit of the treatment for the patient.
WHO does not recommend...
restricting international travel. As usual it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.
Regarding the risk of being infected by an influenza virus, travellers are advised, whenever possible, to avoid crowded enclosed spaces and close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Hand-washing after direct contact with ill persons or their environment may reduce the risk of illness. Ill persons should be encouraged to practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, wash hands).
Regarding specific measures related to protection against influenza A(H1N1), information is presently insufficient to make recommendation on the use of antivirals. For the use of antivirals in treatment of influenza A(H1N1) virus infection, the clinicians have to make decisions based on the clinical and epidemiological assessment and harms and benefit of the treatment for the patient.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Swine Influenza (Flu)
Swine Flu website last updated April 30, 2009, 8:15 AM ET
States | # of laboratory confirmed cases | Deaths | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 1 | ||
| California | 14 | ||
| Indiana | 1 | ||
| Kansas | 2 | ||
| Massachusetts | 2 | ||
| Michigan | 2 | ||
| Nevada | 1 | ||
| New York | 51 | ||
| Ohio | 1 | ||
| Texas | 16 | 1 | |
| TOTAL COUNTS | 91 cases | 1 death | |
| International Human Cases of Swine Flu Infection See: World Health Organization  | |||
The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of swine origin continues to grow in the United States and internationally. Today, CDC reports additional confirmed human infections, hospitalizations and the nation’s first fatality from this outbreak. The more recent illnesses and the reported death suggest that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may be emerging in the U.S. Most people will not have immunity to this new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks.
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. Yesterday, CDC issued new interim guidance for clinicians on how to care for children and pregnant women who may be infected with this virus. Young children and pregnant women are two groups of people who are at high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza. In addition, CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them respond to the outbreak. The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation and CDC will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available.
President Obama Says Swine Flu Spread Not Yet ‘Cause for Alarm’
President Barack Obama said today that the threat of swine flu spreading is a cause for concern but “not a cause for alarm” as the United States works to closely monitor borders to contain it.
“The Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency as a precautionary tool to ensure that we have the resources we need at our disposal to respond quickly and effectively,” Obama said in an Associated Press report from a gathering of scientists in Washington, DC.
The acting head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said people should be prepared for the situation to possibly become more severe, according to Richard Besser.
To date, the number of swine flu infections in Mexico has risen to 1,600, and a number of nations have provided varying responses:
--The European Union advised against nonessential travel to the United States and Mexico.
--Tokyo’s Narita Airport installed a device to monitor the temperatures of passengers arriving from Mexico.
--Russia said any visitors from North America running a fever would be quarantined until the cause of that fever is determined.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reassured the public Sunday that there is no evidence at this time to suggest that swine have been infected with this virus.
“According to scientists at USDA and the CDC, swine flu viruses are not transmitted by food so you cannot get swine flu from eating pork or pork products,” says Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “Eating properly handled and cooked pork or pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160 degrees F kills all viruses and other foodborne pathogens.” More details on cooking pork are available at The National Pork Board.
USDA currently has a surveillance system in place in all states to monitor animal health. Vilsack says he has asked USDA officials to contact agricultural officials in every state to affirm that they have no signs of this virus type in their state.
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