Search results matching tag 'health'

Symptoms, treatment and prevention for bug-born illnesses

Salem Editor — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 18:15:00 GMT

EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS

Although Eastern equine encephalitis, or EEE, has not been detected in samples taken from around New England this year, officials urge that care be taken to avoid contracting this viral disease, considered to be one of the most deadly mosquito-borne diseases in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site.

Symptoms in humans tend to take three to 10 days to develop after a bite from an infected mosquito. Many people who contract EEE have no apparent illness. In those who do get sick, symptoms range from mild flu-like illness to inflamation of the brain, coma and death. The mortality rate in those who become ill is about one-third.

People older than 50 and younger than 15 seem to be most susceptible, and also those who work or play in areas where the disease is present, mainly in freshwater hardwood swamps in the Atlantic Coast and Gulf states, and also in the Great Lakes region.

The number of cases is small, mainly because people don’t live close to swampy areas where the mosquitoes live. About 220 cases have been cited in the United States between 1964 and 2004.

There is no human vaccine for the virus, but people can take precautions, such as using an EPA-registered repellent, wearing protective clothing, avoiding outdoor activity when mosquitoes are active – some carriers are aggressive day-biters, according to CDC – and removing standing water where mosquitoes can breed.

Although there is no specific treatment for EEE, medical care can include nursing care, physical therapy and prevention of secondary infections.

About half of those who survive the EEE will have mild to severe neurological damage. – Information from the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov.

LYME DISEASE

Lyme disease is fairly easy to prevent if you know you have been where ticks live and look for the pest or evidence of its bite. However, for those unaware of the tick bite, Lyme disease is often misdiagnosed, causing longterm illness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Infection (CDC) says Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium carried by blacklegged ticks.

According to their Web site, “Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Lyme disease is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., rash), and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks; laboratory testing is helpful in the later stages of disease. Most cases of Lyme disease can be treated successfully with a few weeks of antibiotics.”

The rash typically has a bullseye pattern, and shows up between three and 30 days after the bite. Patients also experience symptoms of fatigue, chills, fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, these may be the only symptoms of infection, according to the CDC.

Left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to loss of muscle tone, severe headaches and shooting pains, arthritis, joint pain and swelling.

If you’re bitten

Try to avoid areas with ticks, and checking for ticks if you have been outdoors. Discourage deer from coming onto your property, as they carry the ticks that harbor the Lyme bacteria.

The CDC recommends pulling a tick off as soon as it’s found, using tine-tipped tweezers as close to your skin as possible. Pull straight up. Clean the skin with warm soap and water. Don’t use petroleum jelly, a hot match, nail polish or other products.

If the tick has been attached to your skin for less than 24 hours, your chance of getting Lyme disease is very small, but the bitten area should be watched closely.

WEST NILE VIRUS

Pesky mosquito bites are irritating and in some cases, though rare, can cause West Nile virus.

But, the right conditions have to occur for someone to contract the virus.

The West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on an infected bird. The infected mosquito then bites a human and transmits the infection.

The risk of contracting the infection is low but can be a serious threat to seniors, young children and those with poor immune systems.

West Nile virus can also be spread to people through blood transfusions and organ transplants from infected donors. And, pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers infected with West Nile virus could possibly pass it to their baby.

Symptoms

Illness typically occurs within three to 15 days after someone has been bitten by an infected mosquito.

The majority of people who become ill have no symptoms, though others may experience mild, flu-like symptoms – fever, headache and body aches, often with a skin rash and swollen lymph glands.

In a small percentage of people, more severe infections can cause headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, paralysis and, sometimes, death.

There is no known transmission from birds to people, however, you should not handle birds or any dead animals with your bare hands.

There is no specific treatment for West Nile virus.

Prevention is key

While mosquitoes are active beginning in June, people should be thinking about prevention through Oct. 20.

In warm weather, mosquitoes can breed in any puddle that lasts more than four days. According to the state Department of Health and Human Services, residents can help prevent West Nile virus by following these guidelines:

• Eliminate standing water and other mosquito-breeding locations around your property – Remove old tires that can collect water; dispose of tin cans, plastic and ceramic pots; drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers that are left outside; make sure roof gutters are clean and drain properly; clean and chlorinate swimming pools and hot tubs; aerate garden ponds or stock them with fish; change water in birdbaths at least twice weekly.; and turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.

• Secure your home – Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace all screens in your home that have tears or holes.

• Protect yourself from mosquito bites – If outside during evening and dawn hours when mosquitoes are most active and likely to bite, children and adults should wear protective clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks.

Use an effective insect repellent, such as one containing DEET. Repellents that contain Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus have also been determined effective against the virus. Vitamin B, ultrasonic devices, incense and bug zappers have not been proven effective in preventing mosquito bites.

Since West Nile virus was first seen in the U.S. in 1999, in Queens, N.Y., states across New England have been tracking the occurrence of illnesses and the number of reported dead birds tested that could carry the virus.

This year, the West Nile virus has not been identified in New Hampshire, though 2,131 mosquito pools, one horse sample and 56 human samples have been tested so far. In 2007, no specimens tested positive for West Nile virus.

In 2003, three human cases were reported in New Hampshire. Facts about West Nile and other mosquito-borne diseases, the handling of dead birds and information about communities under declared public health threat can be found at www. dhhs.nh.gov or call the toll-free West Nile virus information line at (866) 273-6453.

– Source: New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services Web site, www.dhhs.nh.gov.

Bracelets for Breast Cancer Fundraiser

CLTomasi — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 00:08:52 GMT

On Saturday, August 2nd, I will be hosting Bracelets for Breast Cancer. The event will be located at Salem Self Defense Center 224 North Broadway, Salem, NH, and will run from 9am-4pm. We will be holding several raffles, as well as serving food and drink, with a Krav Maga demonstration in the afternoon.

The event will feature the Fall/Winter 2008 line of lia sophia jewelry. Half of my profits (15% of the total sales) will be donated to breast cancer research, awareness, and prevention. To do this, I need to sell at least $3335 worth of product. As an incentive, once my sales exceed that amount, 20% of the total sales will be donated to breast cancer research.

If you do not live in the area or are unable to attend, but would like to contribute to the cause, orders can be placed online through my personal website at www.liasophia.com/poshpieces, after July 28. Orders can be placed up until August 9 at 10pm. If you choose to order online, you should put in "Chris Tom" as the hostess name. If you have any questions, feel free to call or email me (my contact information is below).

Cancer has undoubtedly touched each and every one of us in some way...Help raise funds to find a cure!

New Hampshire Group Urges NH Federal Legislators to Save Their Breath

bdovidio — Wed, 28 May 2008 19:18:13 GMT

May 2008 - Breathe New Hampshire joined representatives of the Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago, the Alpha-1 Foundation, the American Respiratory Alliance of Western PA, Breathe California, the COPD Foundation, Arkansas Respiratory Health Association, Chicago Thoracic Society and the National Lung Cancer Partnership, and others in calling attention to the challenges those living with lung disease face and to the necessity of preventing lung disease before it starts.

“I was one of six representatives who made the trip from Breathe New Hampshire, including our 2008 Volunteer of the Year, Vincent Kanhai-Singh. Vinnie is actually living with COPD. He is a great spokesperson for our mission,” said Daniel Fortin, President of the New Hampshire non-profit. “Our delegation met with Senator Judd Gregg, as well as with staff members from the offices of Senator John Sununu, Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter and Congressman Paul Hodes. We were very pleased to have secured meeting time with each of our federal legislators,” said Fortin.

“Our purpose in visiting was to discuss current proposed legislation that is important to our mission, such as giving the FDA regulation of tobacco products, legislation on Pulmonary and Cardiac Rehabilitation and increased funding of the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It was also a good opportunity to introduce ourselves as Breathe New Hampshire,” said Dan Aiello, President of Breathe New Hampshire’s Board of Directors.

Breathe New Hampshire, formerly the American Lung Association of New Hampshire, ended its affiliation with the American Lung Association by a unanimous vote of its Board of Directors in 2007. “Our Board takes its obligation to the people of this state very seriously and remaining independent allows Breathe New Hampshire more flexibility in its programming and education initiatives.” said Aiello. “Donations made to Breathe New Hampshire stay in the Granite State and help our residents,” he added.

Others included in the New Hampshire delegation were Diane Smogor, Vice President of Program Services and Claira Monier and John Santos, members of the Board of Directors.

Attention Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Sufferers

gary436 — Mon, 26 May 2008 11:02:36 GMT

It is estimated that fibromyalgia, a chronic illness resulting in wide-ranging pain and fatigue, affects more than five million people in this country. Unfortunately there is only one active support group in New Hampshire on the seacoast. A Concord-based group could help many sufferers and their families as we all try to make the most of living with this dreaded illness.

Please write if you would have an interest in getting together with other fibro folks for the purposes of self-help and support. Include your name, telephone number, and town of residency. Thanks!

fame.cnh@gmail.com

Professionals Urge End to Water Fluoridaiton Citing Harmful Effects

NYSCOF — Mon, 19 May 2008 21:06:00 GMT

Over 1,700 professionals signed a statement urging Congress to stop water fluoridation until Congressional hearings are conducted. They cite new scientific evidence that fluoridation, long promoted to fight tooth decay, is ineffective and has serious health risks. (http://www.fluorideaction.org/statement.august.2007.html)

Signers include a Nobel Prize winner, three members of the prestigious 2006 National Research Council (NRC) panel that reported on fluoride’s toxicology, two officers in the Union representing professionals at EPA headquarters, the President of the International Society of Doctors for the Environment, and hundreds of medical, dental, academic, scientific and environmental professionals, worldwide.

Signer Dr. Arvid Carlsson, winner of the 2000 Nobel Prize for Medicine, says, “Fluoridation is against all principles of modern pharmacology. It's really obsolete.”

An Online Action Petition to Congress in support of the Professionals' Statement is available on FAN's web site, http://congress.fluorideaction.net and over 11,000 individuals have signed so far.

“The NRC report dramatically changed scientific understanding of fluoride's health risks," says Paul Connett, PhD, Executive Director, Fluoride Action Network. "Government officials who continue to promote fluoridation must testify under oath as to why they are ignoring the powerful evidence of harm in the NRC report,” he added.

The Professionals’ Statement also references:

-- The new American Dental Association policy recommending infant formula NOT be prepared with fluoridated water.
-- The CDC’s concession that the predominant benefit of fluoride is topical not systemic.
-- CDC data showing that dental fluorosis, caused by fluoride over-exposure, now impacts one third of American children.
-- Major research indicating little difference in decay rates between fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities.
-- A Harvard study indicating a possible link between fluoridation and bone cancer.
-- The silicofluoride chemicals used for fluoridation are contaminated industrial waste and have never been FDA- approved for human ingestion.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a DC watchdog, revealed that a Harvard professor concealed the fluoridation/bone cancer connection for three years. EWG President Ken Cook states, “It is time for the US to recognize that fluoridation has serious risks that far outweigh any minor benefits, and unlike many other environmental issues, it's as easy to end as turning off a valve at the water plant.”

Further, researchers reporting in the Oct 6 2007 British Medical Journal indicate that fluoridation, touted as a safe cavity preventive, never was proven safe or effective and may be unethical. (1)

Many communities rejected or stopped fluoridation over the years. See: http://www.fluoridealert.org/communities.htm

SOURCE: Fluoride Action Network http://www.FluorideAction.Net

References:

(1) “Adding fluoride to water supplies,” British Medical Journal, KK Cheng, Iain Chalmers, Trevor A. Sheldon, October 6, 2007

Help Save a Life - attend NH marrow donor drive or join the Registry online

Marrow Advocate — Tue, 06 May 2008 20:00:55 GMT

Leigh Buckley is a wife and mother in Derry, New Hampshire. She is a leukemia survivor, and she is alive and well today because one person chose to join the National Marrow Donor Registry and donated when called.

Thousands of people like Leigh need your help. From May 5-19, the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) is trying to bring 46,000 people to the Registry in an effort called "Thanks Mom." Every day, 6,000 people search the Registry for a life-saving match. Only three in 10 receive the transplant they need, many in part because there is no match for them on the Registry.

Want to help? Joining the Registry is easy - just a swab of the inside of your cheek.

Marrow Donor Drive in Honor of Leigh Buckley
Saturday, May 17
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Calvary Bible Church
145 Hampstead Road
Derry, NH 03038

Can't make it to the drive? Join the Registry online or learn more at www.marrow.org.

Please note that I am a PR professional working on behalf of the NMDP. I am also working with Leigh Buckley to share her story and raise awareness about the enormous need for donors.

Lake tests OK

Goffstown Editor — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 20:53:00 GMT

BY DAVE CHOATE

Last summer, the discovery of a high concentration of E. coli in Glen Lake forced the town to close it for several weeks. This summer, Rebecca Caron made sure there were no surprises.

“It’s important to just start taking care of (the lake). I do testing because somebody needs to volunteer to take care of it,” she said.

Caron is a Glen Lake resident who volunteered to assess the water for possible contamination on June 15.

Exactly one month later, she received word from the state Department of Environmental Services that the lake was within acceptable levels for all of the qualities she tested.

“Everything was acceptable across the board,” she said “The next step is getting everything to above average.”

Caron said she plans to consult with biologists and others to figure out the best course of action for improving the quality of the water. She said she regularly picks up trash and considers that an important first step, especially at the public beach where visitors often leave items behind.

The town began testing for E. coli after the scare as well, and their May water test returned normal levels for the bacteria. There have been no positive tests since the original breakout, and the original cause is still unknown.

Town Administrator Susan Desruisseaux said the town typically conducts its E. coli testing once a month during the summer. So far none of the tests have turned up abnormal levels of the bacteria, and she said the results are available on the town’s Web site.

“(The building inspector’s office) is probably going out to take a test of the lake next week. Typically, they’ve always tested during the summer months when usage of that area really goes up,” Desruisseaux said.

Caron said the testing took a couple of hours alongside a biologist who taught her the various mechanical necessities. Next time out, she plans to go alone.

Sara Sumner, the Volunteer Lake Assessment Program coordinator at the state DES, said 174 lakes and ponds in New Hampshire are currently tested. She said she and two interns spend summers training all the volunteers for the tests they’ll need to perform.

“Basically, volunteers test the water once per month through the summer,” Sumner said. “The goal is that over time we can use that data to finds long-term trends to establish how much all these factors change.”

In the past, the DES reported that some treated sewage was directed into the lake, but that was an unlikely cause because the flow redirected back in 1991.

She said the number of people on the beach also might contribute to problems in water quality. She noted the lone public beach on the lake is quite small and brings crowds of people, including children, to the shores of Glen Lake.

Caron plans to head back out in the third week of August to see how consistent her results will be. She said if the results are the same, she’ll have a better idea of what the next step will be.

“It’s a perfect little family lake. We’d very much like to keep it that way,” she said.

Bacteria contamination detected at River Road Spring

Goffstown Editor — Wed, 30 May 2007 17:50:00 GMT

The water from River Road Spring, a popular local landmark on Route 13 near the town center, has been declared unsafe, after recent tests revealed bacteria contamination.

Health officer Shannon Silver said an abnormal level of total coliform bacteria was detected in the water.

Coliform is a naturally occurring organism which most likely contaminated the well from excessive ground run off following the spring flooding.

Silver said the contamination has nothing to do with sewage.

“It’s a free-running spring, and we’ve had a lot of flooding,” said Silver. “It’s definitely not a (widespread) water issue.”

A bright yellow sign is posted at the spring, warning visitors about the problem, declaring, “This spring has been closed by order of the Health Officer and declared unsafe for human consumption.”

Water contaminated with coliform bacteria may cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and possibly jaundice. Children under the age of 5, older people and those with weakened immune systems, are especially vulnerable to infection from contaminated water.

In rare cases, the symptoms can become very serious, even life threatening.

Silver plans to test the River Road Spring again, in about a month, to see if the bacteria contamination has cleared up.

“If it’s all right, we’ll take down the sign,” said Silver.

A permanent sign, placed near the spring many years ago, warns that the well does not meet public standards for safe drinking water, and that the town of New Boston will not assume liability for health problems caused by the water.

Since the well lies on a public road, the town is responsible for testing. The well is checked for contamination each spring, along with the water in several public buildings. Private property owners are responsible for testing from private water sources.

Testing out – Town to check for E. coli monthly

Goffstown Editor — Wed, 30 May 2007 17:45:00 GMT

BY STEVEN ANDREWS

Despite a packed parking area and swarm of swimmers each summer at Glen Lake, it is not part of the state’s public health testing program because the town does not consider it a swimming area.

Instead, the town is left to test the lake for E. coli and other public health hazards.

“We did test the lake in May and the E. coli level was well below the acceptable amount,” said Janice O’Connell, the town’s finance director.

The town plans on testing once a month during the summer, or as needed due to environmental factors, such as hot, humid days and the amount of use by residents.

However, O’Connell notes that swimming is not the reason the beach at Glen Lake exists.

“It was established as a recreation area for boating and picnicking,” she said.

Since it is not a public beach, it does not fall under the state’s testing jurisdiction, does not require lifeguards and supplies limited parking.

If the town’s testing does reveal a health risk, such as the elevated E. coli levels last year that shut down Glen Lake, O’Connell said residents will be notified as soon as possible.

“If there are any risks, even getting in and out of a boat can be dangerous,” she said. “We want people to know if there’s a problem.”

Ed Neveu, the town’s health inspection officer was not available for comment on how the state program differed from the town’s.

Health-care workshop planned in Salem

Salem Editor — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:38:00 GMT

Partners in Health, a program of the Area Agency of Greater Nashua, Inc., in conjunction with New Hampshire Family Voices is sponsoring a workshop on “A Profile of a Child.” The workshop will explain health plans for community inclusion of children and youth with special health-care plans, how to create a plan, who helps and emergency plans.

Bring your school health plan and the sponsors will help you understand how to adapt it for community settings. The workshop will be held 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 28, at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital, 70 Butler St. in Salem. A light supper will be served. R.S.V.P. to Maura Pennisi at 459-2763.