The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the January 2011 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/index.htm
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the January 2011 issue of the EID journal at the following link: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/index.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
Update: Haiti Travel Precaution – CDC (Dec 17)
An epidemic cholera strain has been confirmed in Haiti, causing the first cholera outbreak in Haiti in at least 100 years. Cholera is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
travel-health-precaution/haiti-cholera.aspx
Update: Defeating Cholera: Clinical Presentation and Management for Haiti Cholera Outbreak, 2010 – CDC (Dec 16)
These changes consist of dropping ciprofloxacin as an option for treating cholera due to concerns about resistance.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/clinicalmanagement/
New: Dominican Republic Outbreak Notice – CDC (Dec 16)
Cases of cholera were confirmed in the Dominican Republic November 16, 2010. Cholera is most often spread through the ingestion of contaminated food or drinking water. Water may be contaminated by the feces of an infected person or by untreated sewage. Food is often contaminated by water containing cholera bacteria or being handled by a person ill with cholera.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
outbreak-notice/cholera-dominican-republic.aspx
Cholera Information for Healthcare Providers Going to Haiti – CDC (Dec 15)
This document is intended to provide a brief overview of the current outbreak situation, basic epidemiology, diagnosis and management of patients with cholera, and prevention and infection control guidance for health care providers traveling to Haiti.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hcp_goingtohaiti.htm
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
On Demand Training
Archived COCA Conference Call is available on the COCA webpage at: http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/callinfo.asp. Simply download the PowerPoint and follow along with the audio file posted on the COCA webpage
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Flu View – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 49 ending December 11, 2010 – CDC (Dec 17)
During week 49 (December 5-11, 2010), influenza activity in the United States increased. Three hundred and sixty three (11.0%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division, were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Have You Heard, December 17, 2010: Report of Human Infection with Swine Origin Influenza A (H3N2) – CDC (Dec 17)
This Have You Heard posting provides more information on the report of a human infection with a swine origin influenza A (H3N2) virus in Minnesota reported in the December 17 FluView.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/subtopic/heard.htm#1217
HHS and Walgreens Announce New Effort Aimed at Addressing Health Disparities in Flu Vaccination – HHS (Dec 17)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that Walgreens has agreed to donate $10 million in vouchers for free flu shots to 350,000 eligible uninsured and underserved people in 15 markets across the country.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
12/20101217a.html
Pregnant Women Need a Flu Shot: Fact Sheet – CDC (Dec 16)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/
pregnant/flushot_pregnant_Factsheet.pdf
UPDATE: 2010-2011 Influenza Antiviral Medications: A Summary for Clinicians – CDC (Dec 15)
A summary of the 2010-2011 antiviral recommendations for clinicians.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
antivirals/summary-clinicians.htm
Guidance for Clinicians on the Use of Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests for the 2010-2011 Influenza Season – CDC (Dec 14)
This document provides updated guidance for clinicians on the use of rapid influenza diagnostic tests for the 2010-2011 season.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
diagnosis/clinician_guidance_ridt.htm
CDC Media Advisory: Clinical Infectious Diseases Journal Supplement on 2009 H1N1 Pandemic
– CDC (Dec 14)
Newly published CID articles highlight the science behind the Federal government’s response to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/
2010/a101214.html
H1N1 vaccine safe and induces robust immune response in people with asthma – NIH (Dec 14)
Results from a government-sponsored clinical trial of inactivated 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in people with asthma indicate that a single dose of vaccine was safe and induced a strong immune response predictive of protection. The findings also suggest that individuals over the age of 60 who have severe asthma may require a larger dose of vaccine.
http://www.nih.gov/news/health/dec2010/niaid-13.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
CDC Public Health Matters Blog – CDC (Dec 17)
The CDC Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response (OPHPR) would like to welcome the Public Health Matters Blog to the Emergency Preparedness and Response website. The Public Health Matters Blog is hosted by the Director of OPHPR, Dr. Ali Khan, who along with other invited authors share their perspectives and personal experiences working on the front lines of emerging infectious diseases and public health emergencies. From high-tech labs in Atlanta to the field worldwide, please join Dr. Khan and invited guests as they share their passion about public health and the continual strides that are being made to protect and save lives.
http://blogs.cdc.gov/publichealthmatters/
Stay Safe this Holiday Season – CDC (Dec 13)
Tips from CDC's Injury Center on motor vehicle safety can help you protect yourself, your passengers, and your family and friends. Whether you're headed around town, out of town, or out to celebrate, we wish you a safe holiday season.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/RoadSafety/
Hospital Preparedness Exercises Resources – AHRQ (Dec 2010)
These resources can help hospital preparedness exercise coordinators plan for, design and develop, conduct, evaluate, and improve hospital preparedness exercises.
http://www.ahrq.gov/prep/hospex.htm
The Medical Aspects of Radiation Incidents – ORISE (Dec 2010)
The Medical Aspects of Radiation Incidents provides the basic information needed for the medical management of victims of radiation incidents in an easy-to-understand manner and is now available to attendees of REAC/TS courses in “pocket guide” form.
http://orise.orau.gov/reacts/resources/
radiation-accident-management.aspx
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Dec 17)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
December 17, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 49
Download .pdf document of this issue
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Travelers’ Health
Interim Guidance for Cruise Ships on the Management of Influenza-Like-Illness (ILI) – CDC (Dec 16)
This document provides interim guidance for crew members and passengers of cruise ships originating from or stopping in the United States during the 2010–11 influenza season, to prevent, diagnose and control outbreaks of influenza-like illness (ILI).
http://wwwnd.cdc.gov/travel/content/
interim-guidance-cruise-ships-flu.aspx
Food & Drug Safety
FDA: Consumers should not eat Sally Jackson cheese due to risk of Escherichia coli O157:H7 – FDA (Dec 17)
All Sally Jackson cheeses on the market should be avoided because the products were processed under conditions that create a significant risk of contamination, and because Sally Jackson cheeses have been identified as one possible source of several cases of Escherichia coli (E. coli) O157:H7 infections. All Sally Jackson cheese is made from unpasteurized raw milk.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm237381.htm
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alert – FDA (Dec 17)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
UPDATE: CDC Responds to Cholera Outbreak in Haiti – CDC (Dec 10)
CDC is working closely with other U.S. government agencies and international partners in support of the Haitian government’s response to the cholera outbreak in that country. A total of 183 staff were participating in the outbreak, including 25 who were deployed as of December 10.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/update/
NEW: Video - Haiti Cholera Related Video in Spanish – CDC (Dec 10)
"Defeating Cholera" now available in Spanish. Closed captioned for the hearing impaired. Transcripts included.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/video/
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Seasonal Influenza Resources
CDC Flu Ends with U Vaccination Pledge! – CDC (Dec 10)
The CDC Flu Ends with U Vaccination Pledge! The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/nivw/pledge/index.html
Brochure: Flu: A guide for parents of children or adolescents with chronic health conditions – CDC (Dec 10)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/risk/
Flu_brochure_english_508_final.pdf
2010-2011 Open Letter to the American People – CDC (Dec 06)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/nivw/
2010-2011open_letter_color.pdf
2010-11 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine - Total Doses Distributed – CDC (Dec 06)
Cumulative weekly total number of seasonal influenza vaccine doses distributed in the US as reported to CDC by influenza vaccine manufacturers.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/vaccinesupply.htm
Video: Hablemos de la Influenza – CDC (Dec 06)
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/
HablemosInfluenza/index.html
A Flu Vaccine that Lasts: NIH Scientists Consider Prospects for a Universal Influenza Vaccine – NIH (Dec 06)
The costly, time-consuming process of making, distributing and administering millions of seasonal flu vaccines would become obsolete if researchers could design a vaccine that confers decades-long protection from any flu virus strain.
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/news/newsreleases/
2010/Pages/universalFluVaxCommentary.aspx
Flu View – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 48 ending December 04, 2010 – CDC (Dec 10)
During week 48 (November 28-December 4, 2010), influenza activity in the United States remained relatively low overall, and decreased slightly in the Southeast. Three hundred and eighty six (10.8 %) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/
index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Dec 10)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
December 10, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 48
Download .pdf document of this issue
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alert – FDA (Dec 13)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
NEW: Haiti Cholera Training Resources – CDC (Dec 01)
General Training Materials available in French, and Haitian Creole. Haiti Cholera Training Materials available in French. Community Health Worker Materials available in English, French, and Haitian Creole.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/training/
NEW: Cholera Treatment Workshop: Case Study (Questions) in English and French – CDC (Dec 02)
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/video/
case_study_questions_en.htm
NEW: Cholera Treatment Workshop - Case Study (Answers) in English and French – CDC (Dec 02)
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/video/
case_study_answers_en.htm
NEW: Infection Control Guide for Family Members of Patients with Suspect or Confirmed Cholera – CDC (Dec 02)
Drink and use safe water - Cook food thoroughly - Wash hands with soap and safe water after caring for the patients, and especially after handling fecal matter.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
family-infection-control.htm
NEW: Consider Cholera: Information for U.S. Healthcare Professionals – CDC (Dec 02)
There is an outbreak of cholera in Haiti. Healthcare professionals in the United States need to be on the lookout for possible cases. What is cholera? When should I suspect cholera? What antibiotic should I use?
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
consider-cholera.htm
NEW: Haiti Cholera Healthcare Provider Training Materials in English – CDC (Dec 02)
Haiti Cholera Healthcare Provider Training Materials in English, previously available only in French.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
training/trainingmaterials.htm
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
NIVW Resources
National Influenza Vaccination Week to be held December 5-11, 2010 – CDC (Dec 03)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set aside the week of December 5-11, 2010 to observe this season's National Influenza Vaccination Week. The week-long emphasis on flu vaccination was established to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as fostering greater use of flu vaccine after the holiday season into January and beyond.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2010/
r101203.html
National Influenza Vaccination Week: Calendar of Events – CDC (Dec 03)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/NIVW/activities.htm
NIVW Faith-Based Op-Ed – CDC (Dec 01)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/nivw/
Faith_Focused_OpEd_112310.pdf
NIVW Faith-Based Bulletin Insert – CDC (Dec 01)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/nivw/
Faith_Based_Bulletin_Insert.pdf
National Influenza Vaccination Week: Free NIVW Web Tools – CDC (Nov 30)
CDC will be supporting organizations across the country in their vaccination efforts during National Influenza Vaccination Week. There are podcasts, ecards and other e-health activities to support this effort. You can help in promoting the ongoing flu vaccine efforts by placing these graphics on your web pages.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/NIVW/help.htm
National Influenza Vaccination Week Key Points December 5-11, 2010 – CDC (Nov 30)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/nivw/
NIVW_Key_Points_Final_113010.pdf
Seasonal Influenza Resources
Results from the November 2010 Rapid Flu Survey – United States, 2010-11 Influenza Season – CDC (Dec 03)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/vaccination/rapidflusurvey.pdf
CDC Guidance for Commercial Aircraft Operators: 2010 – 2011 Influenza Season – CDC (Dec 03)
This document contains information to help limit the spread of influenza virus during air travel and also provides guidance for the management of travelers with influenza-like illness (ILI) during a flight.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/id/2493.aspx
Flu View – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 47 ending November 27, 2010 – CDC (Dec 03)
During week 47 (November 21-27, 2010), influenza activity in the United States remained relatively low overall, but increased slightly in the Southeast. Three hundred and sixty six (10.7%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Webchat for Seniors – CDC (Dec 01)
A Know What to Do About the Flu webcast focusing on what our seniors and those who care for seniors need to know.
http://www.flu.gov/video/webcasts/
webchat_for_seniors.html
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/index.htm#fluletter
FREE Continuing Education Webcast for Nurses – ANA (Dec 02)
Under the ANA Bringing Immunity to Every Community initiative, ANA and Every Child by Two (ECBT) have partnered to produce this innovative continuing education webcast for nurses on vaccine safety and patient communication. Combining a nurse-panel presentation with patient-nurse video vignettes, this course offers practical knowledge and skills to increase immunization competency.
http://www.anaimmunize.org/Webcast
Podcast: "Make It Your Business to Fight the Flu" toolkit – CDC (Dec 02)
This toolkit provides information and recommended strategies to help businesses and employers promote the 2010 – 2011 seasonal flu vaccine.
http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=4165517
Continuing Education on Influenza Vaccine Safety (FREE) "Real Talk About Influenza Vaccine – Be Informed and Be Prepared" – CDC (Dec 01)
(FREE) Continuing Education on Influenza Vaccine Safety offered by the CDC's Immunization Safety Office.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
Communications_HCP.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Toxic Exposure Prevention: ATSDR Priority – CDC (Nov 29)
ATSDR's top priority is to protect people from harmful chemical exposure. Learn how the CERCLA act of 1980 laid the foundation for ATSDR and a safer, healthier America that enjoys stronger protection from toxic substances.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/PreventExposure/
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Dec 03)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
December 3, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 47
Download .pdf document of this issue
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Travelers’ Health
Cholera in the Dominican Republic – CDC (Dec 01)
Since November 16, 2010, officials in the Dominican Republic have reported several confirmed cases of cholera. The disease is most often spread through the ingestion of contaminated food or drinking water. Water may be contaminated by the feces of an infected person or by untreated sewage. Food is often contaminated by water containing cholera bacteria or being handled by a person ill with cholera.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/id/2492.aspx
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alert – FDA (Dec 03)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
2010 – 2011 Influenza Antiviral Medications: Summary for Clinicians – CDC (Nov 23)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/
summary-clinicians.htm
Gather together this season and prevent flu – CDC (Nov 23)
Winter is a special time for family and community. It is time to gather for feasts and celebration. It is time for sharing laughter, wisdom, and tradition – not a time for sharing the flu.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/
populations/AI_AN_Matte_112210.pdf
National Influenza Vaccination Week (Dec 5 – 11) Daily Materials – CDC (Nov 23)
Be sure to check here for updated information and all-purpose materials including flyers, posters, and print materials for all audiences.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/NIVW/daily_materials.htm
2010–11 Influenza Campaign Matte Articles – CDC (Nov 23)
Ready–to–use articles for local newspapers, magazines, and other publications targeting specific audiences such as pregnant women, people with high–risk conditions, health care workers, and seniors.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/NIVW/matte_articles.htm
2010-11 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine - Total Doses Distributed – CDC (Nov 29)
Cumulative weekly total number of seasonal influenza vaccine doses distributed in the US as reported to CDC by influenza vaccine manufacturers.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/
vaccinesupply.htm
Seasonal Flu: International Situation Update – CDC (Nov 24)
This report is a summary of key influenza-related updates created from regional World Health Organization reports, country reports, CDC field staff updates, and other sources. Updates are listed by region.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/activity.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) Journal – CDC (Dec 2010)
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the December 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Nov 26)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
November 26, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 46
Download .pdf document of this issue
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alert – FDA (Nov 27)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
NEW: PDF Translations of Defeating Cholera: Clinical Presentation and Management for Haiti Cholera Outbreak, 2010 – CDC (Nov 12)
Translations of "standard, individual pages" and "folded brochure" now available in Spanish, French, and Haitian Creole.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/clinicalmanagement/
UPDATE: Travelers' Health - Outbreak Notice, Cholera in Haiti – CDC (Nov 11)
An epidemic cholera strain has been confirmed in Haiti, causing the first cholera outbreak in Haiti in many years. Cholera is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that causes severe diarrhea and dehydration.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
outbreak-notice/haiti-cholera.aspx
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
For information and additional healthcare professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
FluView – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 44 ending November 06, 2010 – CDC (Nov 12)
During week 44 (October 31-November 6, 2010), influenza activity remained low in the United States. One hundred and eighty five (6.8%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Seasonal Flu: International Situation Update – CDC (Nov 12)
This report is a summary of key influenza-related updates created from regional World Health Organization (WHO) reports, country reports, CDC field staff updates, and other sources. Updates are listed by region.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/activity.htm
Reports of Human Infections with Swine Origin Influenza A (H3N2) – CDC (Nov 12)
This report provides information about two human infections with swine origin influenza A (H3N2) viruses in the United States. Evidence to date indicates that these are two isolated instances of human infection with swine influenza viruses that, while very rare, do occur from time to time.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/subtopic/heard.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Be Prepared: Staying Safe and Healthy in Winter Weather – CDC (Nov 09)
Winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous, but if you plan ahead, you can stay safe and healthy. Prepare your home and cars. Keep emergency kits stocked. Be ready for power outages. Wear appropriate clothing. Check on children, the elderly and pets.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/WinterWeather/
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Nov 10)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
November 12, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 44
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Associated with Cheese –
CDC (Nov 12)
CDC has issued an alert to consumers and health professionals about an outbreak of E.coli 0517:H in five states: Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Nevada. Based on current information, there is a link with the consumption of one of several cheeses offered for sampling and sale at the “cheese road show” that was held at Costco Warehouse in these states.
http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2010/cheese0157/index.html
Pneumonia Can Be Prevented – Vaccines Can Help – CDC (Nov 08)
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that is usually caused by bacteria or viruses. Globally, pneumonia causes more deaths than any other infectious disease. However, it can often be prevented with vaccines and can usually be treated with antibiotics or antiviral drugs.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/Pneumonia/
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alert – FDA (Nov 12)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Associated with Cheese Updated November 5, 2010 – CDC (Nov 05)
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to investigate a multistate outbreak of human infections due to E. coli O157:H7 (E. coli 0157:H7).
http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2010/cheese0157/index.html
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Nov 08)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
Frequently Asked Questions About the Haiti Cholera Outbreak – CDC (Nov 07)
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/cholera_qa.htm
CDC Responds to Cholera Outbreak in Haiti – CDC (Nov 04)
CDC is working closely with other U.S. government agencies and international partners in support of the Haitian government’s response to the cholera outbreak in that country. CDC is collaborating with the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Pan American Health Organization, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and a host of other organizations to assist the Haiti Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP) in a concerted effort to control the outbreak.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/update/
Cholera: Prevention and Control – CDC (Nov 04)
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/preventionandcontrol.htm
Updated: Five Basic Cholera Prevention Messages – CDC (Nov 04)
5 important, yet basic tips to help prevent the spread of Cholera.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/five_messages.htm
Interim Guidance for Protecting Travelers on Commercial Aircraft Serving Haiti During the Cholera Outbreak – CDC (Nov 02)
These guidelines provide crew members on commercial aircraft with practical measures to protect themselves, passengers, and other crew members when a traveler from Haiti has a diarrheal illness that may be cholera.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/id/2490.aspx
Updated: Cholera: Diagnosis and Treatment In Haiti – CDC (Nov 01)
Updated recommendations on fluid replacement for severe dehydration
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
diagnosistreatment.htm
Laboratory Test Results of Cholera Outbreak Strain in Haiti Announced – CDC (Nov 01)
The Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population has received the results of laboratory testing showing that the cholera strain linked to the current outbreak in Haiti is most similar to cholera strains found in South Asia. More information about this strain, including the possibility that it might be found in other regions of the world, is anticipated from additional studies. The findings were reported as part of laboratory collaboration between the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) in Haiti and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/
2010/r101101.html
Defeating Cholera: Clinical Presentation and Management for Haiti Cholera Outbreak, 2010 – CDC (Nov 01)
Most persons infected with the cholera bacterium have mild diarrhea or no symptoms at all. Only about 7% of persons infected with Vibrio cholerae O1 have illness requiring treatment at a health center. Cholera patients should be evaluated and treated quickly. With proper treatment, even severely ill patients can be saved. Prompt restoration of lost fluids and salts is the primary goal of treatment.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
clinicalmanagement/
Advice about Cholera for Travelers Arriving in the United States from Haiti – CDC (Oct 28)
People most often get cholera by drinking water or eating food that has cholera germs in it. Water can be contaminated with the feces of a person sick with cholera.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/news-announcements/
cholera-travelers-returning-from-haiti.aspx
Cholera Information for Healthcare Professionals
Cholera resources for healthcare professionals addressing diagnosis, testing, treatment, patient care, and prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/hc_professionals.htm
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
NOAA and FDA Announce Chemical Test for Dispersant in Gulf Seafood – FDA (Oct 29)
Building upon the extensive testing and protocols already in use by federal, state and local officials for the fishing waters of the Gulf, NOAA and FDA have developed and are using a chemical test to detect dispersants used in the Deepwater Horizon-BP oil spill in fish, oysters, crab and shrimp. Trace amounts of the chemicals used in dispersants are common, and levels for safety have been previously set.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm231653.htm
For information and additional healthcare professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
FluView – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 43 ending October 30, 2010 – CDC (Nov 05)
During week 43 (October 24-30, 2010), influenza activity remained low in the United States. Twenty-five (1.4%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Seasonal Flu: International Situation Update – CDC (Nov 04)
This report is a summary of key influenza-related updates created from regional World Health Organization (WHO) reports, country reports, CDC field staff updates, and other sources. Updates are listed by region.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/activity.htm
New Study Re-examines Bacterial Vaccine Studies Conducted During 1918 Influenza Pandemic – NIH (Nov 02)
Secondary infections with bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, which causes pneumonia, were a major cause of death during the 1918 flu pandemic and may be important in modern pandemics as well.
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/news/newsreleases/
2010/Pages/BacVac1918.aspx
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/
index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Get Set for Winter Illness Season – FDA (OCT 28)
In much of the Northern Hemisphere, this is prime time for colds, influenza (flu), and other respiratory illnesses. While contagious viruses are active year-round, fall and winter are when we're all most vulnerable to them. This is due in large part to people spending more time indoors with others when the weather gets cold. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates medicines and vaccines that help fight winter illnesses.
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/
ucm092805.htm
Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) Journal – CDC (Nov 02)
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the November 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/
Travelers’ Health
Interim Guidance for Protecting Travelers on Commercial Aircraft Serving Haiti During the Cholera Outbreak – CDC (Nov 02)
These guideline provide crew members on commercial aircraft with practical measures to protect themselves, passengers, and other crew members when a traveler from Haiti has diarrhea illness that may be cholera.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/id/2490.aspx
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Nov 05)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
November 5, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 43 / Pg. 1393 - 1432
October 29, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 42 / Pg. 1361 - 1392
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 Infections Associated with Cheese Updated November 5, 2010 – CDC (Nov 05)
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) to investigate a multistate outbreak of human infections due to E. coli O157:H7 (E. coli 0157:H7).
http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2010/cheese0157/index.html
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Nov 08)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Haiti Cholera Outbreak
Cholera Confirmed in Haiti, October 21, 2010 – CDC (Oct 21)
An outbreak of cholera was confirmed in Haiti on October 21, 2010. Cholera had not been documented in Haiti for decades so cholera outbreaks were considered unlikely in Haiti immediately following the earthquake in January, 2010.
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/situation/
For more information and additional resources visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/haiticholera/
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
For information and additional healthcare professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Seasonal Flu: International Situation Update – CDC (Oct 20)
This report is a summary of key influenza-related updates created from regional World Health Organization (WHO) reports, country reports, CDC field staff updates, and other sources. Updates are listed by region and focus on data collected during epidemiologic weeks 37 through 40 (September 12 – October 9, 2010).
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/activity.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Coverage – CDC (Oct 20)
Current available coverage data and past trends.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/vaccinecoverage.htm
Situation Update: Summary of Weekly FluView – CDC (Oct 18)
October 15, 2010, CDC issued its first FluView for the 2010-2011 season. It contains data for the week of October 3-9, 2010. During the week of October 3–9, 2010, nationally all key flu indicators are low.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/summary.htm
FluView – 2010-2011 Influenza Season Week 41 ending October 16, 2010 – CDC (Oct 21)
During week 41 (October 10-16, 2010), influenza activity remained low in the United States. Ninety-two (3.6%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Q & A’s
Vaccine Safety Monitoring Systems for 2010 – 2011 Influenza Season – CDC (Oct 15)
Information on how CDC and FDA are monitoring the safety of seasonal flu vaccine.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/
monitoring.htm
Febrile Seizures Following Childhood Vaccinations, Including Influenza Vaccine – CDC (Oct 15)
Answers to questions regarding febrile seizures in children who get vaccinated, including the risk of febrile seizures in children following seasonal flu vaccination.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/febrile.htm
Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS) – CDC (Oct 15)
Information on Guillain Barré Syndrome (GBS), its causes, who is at risk, and how CDC and FDA monitor for GBS.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/guillainbarre.htm
Thimerosal and 2010 – 2011 Seasonal Flu Vaccine – CDC (Oct 15)
Answers to common questions and safety concerns about thimerosal and its use in seasonal flu vaccines.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/thimerosal.htm
General Vaccine Safety Questions and Answers – CDC (Oct 15)
Information on the safety of the 2010-2011 seasonal flu vaccine, including common side effects and who should not receive flu vaccine.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/general.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/vaccination/
index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
October 26 Webinar – The Food Emergency Response Network – FDA (Oct 25)
Did you know there is a system in place that connects regulatory food-testing laboratories so they can detect, identify, respond to, and aid in the recovery from bioterrorism or public health emergencies involving our food supply? It's called the Food Emergency Response Network (FERN), and it has been vital to the response to major outbreaks of foodborne disease in many products, including spinach, pet food, and peanut butter. Learn more about this essential public safety component—which involves federal, state, and local laboratories—during an hour-long webinar hosted by Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/
ConsumerUpdates/ucm230431.htm
Malaria-Transmitting Mosquito Evolving, NIH Grantees Find – NIH (Oct 21)
Researchers funded by the National Institute of Health have found that the major malaria-transmitting mosquito species, Anopheles gambiae, is evolving into two separate species with different traits, a development that could both complicate malaria control efforts and potentially require new disease prevention methods.
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/news/newsreleases/2010/
Pages/AnophelesMosquitoEvolving.aspx
Travelers’ Health
Health Requirements and Recommendations for Travel to Saudi Arabia during the 2010 Hajj: Information for U.S. Travelers – CDC (Oct 25)
Each year, millions of people travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, a pilgrimage to the holy places of Islam. This year, the week of the Hajj begins November 14. This overcrowding may lead to an increased risk of accidental injury and infectious diseases, such as meningitis, flu, and other diseases spread easily from person to person. To help protect the health and safety of pilgrims, the government of Saudi Arabia recommends that pilgrims should be 12-65 years old and in good health. The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health recommends that people with chronic diseases, such as heart, liver, or kidney diseases, complications of diabetes, obesity, or any other condition that affects a person’s overall health, do not travel to the Hajj.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
in-the-news/Hajj-2010.aspx
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Oct 21)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
October 22, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 41 / Pg. 1329 - 1360
October 15, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 40 / Pg. 1297 – 1328
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Oct 25)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Have you given blood lately? – FDA (Oct 25)
Every day, hospitals throughout the United States are challenged by large numbers of people who need blood. These people include victims of fires, motor vehicle accidents, and other emergencies. But it's not just accidents or trauma that prompts the need for blood. Blood is required for many people, ranging from those with life-threatening illnesses to others undergoing routine surgeries. In fact, every two seconds, someone in America needs blood.
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/
ConsumerUpdates/ucm048368.htm
FDA heightens focus on retail food safety – FDA (Oct 22)
The Food and Drug Administration called for stepped up efforts to improve food safety practices in retail food establishments, specifically pointing to the need for the presence of certified food safety managers to oversee safety practices. FDA pledged to work closely with state and local governments and operators of restaurants, grocery stores and other food service establishments to prevent illness from contaminated food.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm230659.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
HHS Launches Oil Spill Distress Helpline – HHS (Oct 4)
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the availability of a new toll-free helpline to provide information, support and counseling for families and children affected by the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Part of the Obama Administration’s long term oil spill recovery plan, the Oil Spill Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) links callers to behavioral healthcare services and will serve as an important resource for the localized oil spill outreach efforts in the Gulf Coast states.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
10/20101001f.html
For more information and additional healthcare professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/
gulfoilspill2010/health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
2010 Flu Season: A Look Ahead – HHS (Oct 7)
The flu can affect even healthy people, and it can send children and adults to the hospital. Watch Pregnant Women and the Upcoming Flu Season the webcast Wednesday October 13 at noon EDT on http://www.flu.gov/live
Final Estimates for 2009–10 Seasonal Influenza and Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccination Coverage – United States, August 2009 through May, 2010 – CDC (Oct 7)
To estimate national and state level influenza vaccination coverage from August 2009 – May 2010, CDC used combined data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and the National 2009 H1N1 Flu Survey (NHFS). This report describes national findings from these surveys and updates previously published interim 2009–10 seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccination coverage estimates.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/coverage_0910estimates.htm
Seasonal Flu Information for Businesses & Employees – CDC (Oct 7)
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get a yearly flu vaccine, but good health habits and antiviral medications are other measures that can help protect against the flu. To help businesses, employers, and their employees learn about these strategies for preventing flu, CDC provides the following Toolkit, flyers, posters, and other materials to post and distribute in the workplace.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/business/
Global Flu Activity Update – CDC (Oct 6)
The following summary of key influenza-related updates was created from regional World Health Organization (WHO) reports, country reports, CDC field staff updates, and other sources. Updates are listed by region and include data collected during epidemiologic weeks 36 through 38 (September 5-25, 2010).
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/international/
activity.htm
Importance of Influenza Vaccination for Health Care Personnel – FDA (Oct 1)
As the flu season approaches, FDA is urging healthcare facilities to ensure that influenza vaccination programs are available for their personnel. Vaccinating healthcare workers will decrease the likelihood that they will contract influenza, and also decrease the chance that they will infect others. This is especially important because these personnel often provide care to patients at high risk of serious and even fatal complications if they contract influenza. Of course another benefit of vaccinating staff is that it also protects their families from getting the disease.
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/
cdrh/cfdocs/psn/transcript.cfm?show=103#1
Questions & Answers – CDC (Oct 1)
Vaccine Selection for the 2010–2011 Influenza Season
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/1011_vac_selection.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
BARDA funds development of next-generation portable ventilators – HHS (Sept 29)
A $6.7 million contract announced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) will help fill the need for domestically manufactured, low-cost, user-friendly and flexible next-generation ventilators. This contract to Newport Medical Instruments of Costa Mesa, Calif., is for three years. Planning for a severe influenza pandemic and other biothreats indicates a need for such ventilators. The ventilators are intended to provide respiratory support for large numbers of severely ill patients when mass casualties and shortages of experienced care providers may be expected, such as during a severe influenza pandemic or other public health emergency.
http://www.flu.gov/news/portablegenerators.html
Travelers’ Health
Health Requirements and Recommendations for Travel to Saudi Arabia during the 2010 Hajj: Information for U.S. Travelers – CDC (Oct 12)
Each year, millions of people travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, a pilgrimage to the holy places of Islam. This year, the week of the Hajj begins November 14. This overcrowding may lead to an increased risk of accidental injury and infectious diseases, such as meningitis, flu, and other diseases spread easily from person to person. To help protect the health and safety of pilgrims, the government of Saudi Arabia recommends that pilgrims should be 12-65 years old and in good health. The Saudi Arabia Ministry of Health recommends that people with chronic diseases, such as heart, liver, or kidney diseases, complications of diabetes, obesity, or any other condition that affects a person’s overall health, do not travel to the Hajj.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/in-the-news/
Hajj-2010.aspx
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Oct 8)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
October 8, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 39 / Pg. 1261 – 1296
October 1, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 38 / Pg. 1229 - 1260
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Oct 12)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
FDA issues final rule on safety information during clinical trials – FDA (Sept 28)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a final rule that clarifies what safety information must be reported during clinical trials of investigational drugs and biologics.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm227386.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Update: What’s Coming Ashore from the Oil Spill – CDC (Sept 24)
This page has information about what light crude oil does when it reaches shore.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
coming_ashore.asp
For more information and additional Healthcare Professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/
gulfoilspill2010/health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Influenza 2010-2011: ACIP Vaccination Recommendations – CDC (Sept 23)
In this podcast targeted to clinicians, Dr. Joe Bresee discusses who should be vaccinated against flu this year, explains who is at risk for severe illness, and discusses the benefits of vaccination.
http://www2c.cdc.gov/
podcasts/player.asp
Guidelines and Recommendations
Prevention Strategies for Seasonal Influenza in Healthcare Settings – CDC (Sept 20)
This guidance supersedes previous CDC guidance for both seasonal influenza and the Interim Guidance on Infection Control Measures for 2009 H1N1 Influenza in Healthcare Settings, which was written to apply uniquely to the special circumstances of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic as they existed in October 2009. As stated in that document, CDC planned to update the guidance as new information became available.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
infectioncontrol/healthcaresettings.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Safety: A Summary for Clinicians – CDC – (Sept 14)
Seasonal influenza vaccination is the most important way of preventing seasonal influenza virus infections and potentially severe complications, including death. Seasonal influenza vaccination reduces the likelihood of becoming ill with influenza or transmitting influenza to others. The 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccine protects against an influenza A H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus, and the 2009 H1N1 virus that caused widespread illness last season.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/vaccine_safety.htm
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Resources for Health Professionals http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/index.htm#fluletter
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
2010 Report – Public Health Preparedness: Strengthening the Nation’s Emergency Response State by State – CDC (Sept 21)
A report on CDC-funded preparedness and response activities in 50 states, 4 cities, and 8 U.S. insular areas.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/publications/
2010phprep/
BARDA funds medical countermeasure innovation – HHS (Sept 21)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) announced the first eight contract awards under an initiative to help modernize and improve the nation’s infrastructure for producing medical countermeasures that protect against natural and man-made biological threats. The contracts help advance innovative tools and techniques that reduce the time and cost of development, testing, and production of medical countermeasures and that improve the safety, efficacy, and ease of use of these products. These contracts total $55 million for the initial phase and up to $100 million over three years.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/09/20100921d.html
BARDA awards $51 million contract for next generation anthrax vaccine – HHS (Sept 17)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) awarded a $51 million contract to Emergent BioSolutions, Inc., of Rockville, Md., for the development of a new anthrax vaccine using the protective antigen (rPA) to stimulate a protective immune response that neutralizes the anthrax toxins.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/09/20100917c.html
When Every Drop Counts: Protecting Public Health During Drought Conditions—A Guide for Public Health Professionals – CDC (Aug 2010)
CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health developed this publication to assist public health officials, practitioners, and other stakeholders in their efforts to understand and prepare for drought in their communities. The document includes information about how drought affects public health, recommends steps to help mitigate the health effects of drought, identifies future needs for research and other drought-related activities, and provides a list of helpful resources and tools. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/
ehs/Publications/Drought.htm
Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) Journal – CDC (Oct 2010)
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the October 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR)
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Sept 24)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
September 24, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 37 / Pg. 1201 – 1228
September 17, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 36 / Pg. 1165 - 1200
-
Balamuthia mandrillaris Transmitted Through Organ Transplantation --- Mississippi, 2009
-
National, State, and Local Area Vaccination Coverage Among Children Aged 19--35 Months --- United States, 2009
-
CDC Grand Rounds: Radiological and Nuclear Preparedness
-
Notes from the Field: Transplant-Transmitted Balamuthia mandrillaris --- Arizona, 2010
-
Announcements: National Child Passenger Safety Week --- September 19--25, 2010
-
Announcements: Environmental Microbiology: Control of Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Course --- January 5--8 and 10, 2011
-
Errata: Vol. 59, No. RR-9
-
Errata:: Vol. 59, No. 20
-
QuickStats: Life Expectancy at Birth, by Race and Sex --- United States, 1970--2007
-
Notifiable Diseases and Mortality Tables
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Sept 27)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Updated: Health Surveillance - CDC (Sept 3)
The Gulf Coast Oil Spill has the potential to affect human health in addition to the effects already seen on animal and marine life. CDC, along with the affected Gulf Coast states, has developed a plan to track the potential short-term health effects related to the oil spill in the affected communities.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
2010gulfoilspill/health_surveillance.asp
Updated: CDC Responds - CDC (Aug 31)
CDC regularly updates this website with details about the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill response.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
cdcresponds.asp
For more information and additional Healthcare Professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/
gulfoilspill2010/health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Seasonal Influenza Vaccine- Total Doses Distributed – CDC (Sept 10)
This table reflects the weekly total number of seasonal influenza vaccine doses distributed in the US as reported to CDC by influenza vaccine manufacturers.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/
vaccination/vaccinesupply.htm
How Flu Spreads – CDC (Sept 10)
People with flu can spread it to others up to about 6 feet away. Most experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth or nose.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm
Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the United States: CDC Study Confirms Variability of Flu- CDC (Sept 8)
CDC feels it is important to convey the full burden of seasonal flu to the public. Seasonal flu is a serious disease that causes illness, hospitalizations, and deaths every year in the United States. CDC estimates of annual influenza-associated deaths in the United States are made using well-established scientific methods that have been reviewed by scientists outside of CDC.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/
us_flu-related_deaths.htm
Guidance for School Administrators to Help Reduce the Spread of Seasonal Influenza in K-12 Schools during the 2010-2011 School Year – CDC (Sept 7)
This document provides seasonal flu recommendations for K-12 schools for the 2010-2011 school year.
For the purpose of this guidance, "schools" will refer to both public and private institutions providing grades K-12 education to children and adolescents in group settings.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/guidance.htm
How To Clean and Disinfect Schools To Help Slow the Spread of Flu – CDC (Sept 7)
This guide gives K-12 schools tips on how to clean to help slow the spread of seasonal flu. A Spanish version is also available.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/school/cleaning.htm
What You Should Know and Do this Flu Season If You Are 65 Years and Older – CDC (Sept 7)
This document provides seasonal flu recommendations for adults 65 years of age and older.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/65over.htm
Influenza Vaccination Information for Health Care Workers – CDC (Sept 2)
This document provides lists of facts and recommendations for health care workers concerning the flu and vaccinations.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/HealthcareWorkers.htm
CDC Statement on Discontinued Use of Pandemrix Influenza Vaccine in Europe – CDC (Sept 1)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has become aware of recommendations made by the Finland National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) to discontinue vaccination with Pandemrix, an adjuvanted H1N1 influenza vaccine, while an investigation is conducted looking into the observed rise in cases of narcolepsy among children and adolescents, mainly in Sweden and Finland.
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/
h1n1_narcolepsy_pandemrix.html
Questions & Answers
Seasonal Influenza – CDC (Sept 10)
Update of Seasonal Influenza Q&A
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/disease.htm
What’s new about the flu vaccine for the 2010 – 11 flu season? – CDC (Sept 10)
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/
fluvax_whatsnew.htm
The Flu: Caring for Someone Sick at Home – CDC (Sept 10)
Learn what you can do to help your family this flu season. A Spanish version is also available.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/homecare/
2009 – 2010 Influenza (Flu) Season – CDC (Sept 9)
Update on 2009-2010 Influenza (Flu) Season
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/
current-season.htm
Update to Misconceptions about Seasonal Influenza and Influenza Vaccines Q&A – CDC (Sept 9 )
Update to Misconceptions about Seasonal Influenza and Influenza Vaccines Q&A
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/misconceptions.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Program cuts red tape for volunteer health professionals – HHS (Sept 7)
Using new national website before a disaster saves time when every minute counts. To make volunteering in an emergency easier for health professionals, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response launched a national website for the Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP).
ESAR-VHP is a national network of state-based programs that verifies the identity, licenses, and credentials of health professionals before an emergency happens. The HHS national ESAR-VHP website provides a single point of entry for potential volunteers, connecting them with each state’s ESAR-VHP program, so health professionals can volunteer quickly without losing time waiting to have their credentials verified.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
09/20100907a.html
BARDA funds development of new way to treat illness from acute radiation. Treatment could be used for other blood disorders and complications of cancer – HHS (Sept 1)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) awarded a $153 million contract to Cellerant Therapeutics, Inc. of San Carlos, Calif., to continue developing a new way to treat an illness caused by exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation which can damage the body’s cells – the type of radiation that would come from a nuclear blast.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
09/20100901a.html
BARDA funds drug development for biothreats, antibiotic resistance – HHS (Aug 30)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) awarded a contract to develop an antibiotic that could be used against possible two types of bioterrorism as well as common infections that are becoming resistant to antibiotics.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
08/20100830a.html
MMWR
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Sept 10)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
September 10, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 35
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Sept 13)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
FDA Steps Up Inspections Under New Egg Rule – FDA (Sept 4)
Over the next 15 months, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigators will team up with state and local partners to visit about 600 egg producers—those with 50,000 or more laying hens—to determine if their facilities are in compliance with an egg safety rule that went into effect in July as part of an effort to prevent future outbreaks of Salmonella Enteritidis.
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/
ConsumerUpdates/ucm224979.htm
FSIS Reaches Out To Spanish-Speaking Consumers with the Launch of New Online Tools – USDA (Sept 1)
In a continuing effort to reach more consumers and educators with food safety information, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) launched Pregúntele a Karen (Ask Karen), and the FSIS Spanish language Twitter feed. These new features are meant to further prevent foodborne illnesses and promote food safety by reaching out to a broader audience of consumers.
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/
NR_090110_01/index.asp
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Updated: Health Surveillance - CDC (Aug 25)
The Gulf Coast Oil Spill has the potential to affect human health in addition to the effects already seen on animal and marine life. CDC, along with the affected Gulf Coast states, has developed a plan to track the potential short-term health effects related to the oil spill in the affected communities.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
2010gulfoilspill/health_surveillance.asp
Updated: CDC Responds - CDC (Aug 17)
CDC regularly updates this website with details about the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill response.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
cdcresponds.asp
For more information and additional Healthcare Professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/
gulfoilspill2010/health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
Treating and Preventing Influenza (Flu) - CDC (Aug 28)
Certain people are at greater risk of serious illness and death from flu. This includes young children, older people, pregnant women and people with certain long-term health conditions. Last flu season, for example, 80 percent of adults and 65 percent of children hospitalized from flu had a long-term health condition or were pregnant. Asthma, diabetes and chronic cardiovascular disease were the three most common conditions.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/
risk/preventing_treating_flu.pdf
Estimating Seasonal Influenza-Associated Deaths in the United States: CDC Study Confirms Variability of Flu- CDC (Aug 26)
CDC feels it is important to convey the full burden of seasonal flu to the public. Seasonal flu is a serious disease that causes illness, hospitalizations, and deaths every year in the United States. CDC estimates of annual influenza-associated deaths in the United States are made using well-established scientific methods that have been reviewed by scientists outside of CDC.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/
us_flu-related_deaths.htm
What You Should Know About Flu Antiviral Drugs- CDC (Aug 25)
Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu in your body. While CDC recommends flu vaccine as the first and most important step in preventing flu, antiviral drugs are a second line of defense against the flu. Antiviral drugs are not sold over-the-counter and are different from antibiotics. You can only get them if you have a prescription from your doctor or health care provider.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/antivirals/
whatyoushould.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Hurricane Readiness: Make a Plan- CDC (Aug 27)
Expect the need to evacuate and prepare for it. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane watch when there is a threat to coastal areas of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
hurricanes/evacuate.asp
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Infection Prevention during Blood Glucose Monitoring and Insulin Administration- CDC (Aug 25)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has become increasingly concerned about the risks for transmitting hepatitis B virus (HBV) and other infectious diseases during assisted blood glucose (blood sugar) monitoring and insulin administration. CDC is alerting all persons who assist others with blood glucose monitoring and/or insulin administration of infection control requirements associated with use of finger stick devices.
http://www.cdc.gov/injectionsafety/
blood-glucose-monitoring.html
Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) Journal – CDC (Sep 2010)
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the September 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/
MMWR
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Aug 27)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
August 27, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 33
August 20, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 32
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recall of Shell Eggs - FDA (Aug 30)
An outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) that has sickened hundreds of people across the country has led to a recall of shell eggs. On August 13, Wright County Egg voluntarily conducted a nationwide recall of shell eggs on 3 of its 5 farms. Further epidemiologic and trace back information led to Wright County Egg expanding its recall on August 18 to cover all 5 farms and 380 million eggs (according to company figures). The FDA is monitoring the recall, including conducting audit checks at retail stores, wholesalers, and distributors to make sure the recalled shell eggs are being removed from the market.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/
MajorProductRecalls/ucm223522.htm#483
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Aug 29)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
Updated: Health Surveillance - CDC (Aug 13)
The Gulf Coast Oil Spill has the potential to affect human health in addition to the effects already seen on animal and marine life. CDC, along with the affected Gulf Coast states, has developed a plan to track the potential short-term health effects related to the oil spill in the affected communities.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/2010gulfoilspill/
health_surveillance.asp
Updated: CDC Responds - CDC (Aug 11)
CDC regularly updates this website with details about the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill response.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/
cdcresponds.asp
For more information and additional Healthcare Professionals resources visit: http://emergency.cdc.gov/gulfoilspill2010/health_professionals.asp
H1N1 & Seasonal Influenza Resources
WHO Statement on H1N1 in post-pandemic period - WHO (Aug 11)
Director-General's opening statement at a virtual press conference on August 10, 2010 announcing the views of the Emergency Committee. The Committee based its assessment on the global situation, as well as reports from several countries that are now experiencing influenza.
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/
2010/h1n1_vpc_20100810/en/index.html
HHS News Release: WHO Declares End to 2009 H1N1 Influenza Pandemic - HHS (Aug 10)
Health and Human Services (HHS) press release outlines implications for United States of WHO declaration that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic has ended.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/08/20100810b.html
Update: 2009 H1N1 Flu International Situation Update - CDC (Aug 9)
This report provides an update to the international flu situation using data collected through August 1, 2010, and reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) on August 6. Overall, flu activity due to 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza viruses is low worldwide.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/international/
ACIP Recommendation for Use of CSL Influenza Vaccine - CDC (Aug 6)
CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for use in the United States of seasonal influenza trivalent inactivated vaccine (TIV) Afluria manufactured by CSL Limited during 2010-11.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2010/s100806.htm
New: Recommended Influenza Vaccines for the U.S. 2010-11 season - CDC (Aug 6)
Table of recommended influenza vaccines for different age groups — United States, 2010-11 season. Includes presentation and dosing information.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/vaccines.htm
Question and Answers: CSL Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Safety in the United States - CDC (Aug 6)
Information for Health Providers about ACIP recommendations for use of CSL vaccine during the 2010–2011 influenza season.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/vaccine/qa_cslfluvac.htm
National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases - CDC Immunization Update 2010 Public Health Training Network Satellite Broadcast and Webcast - CDC (Aug 5)
This webcast is CDC’s annual update on the most recent and significant developments in the rapidly changing field of immunization. Anticipated topics include influenza, pneumococcal conjugate, human papillomavirus and meningococcal vaccines. Other emerging issues will be discussed, including the latest information from the June 2010 meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The webcast will be available online for one month.
http://www2a.cdc.gov/PHTN/webcast/
immupdate2010/default.asp
Health Alert Network (HAN) Info Service Message: Seasonal Influenza A (H3N2) Virus Infections
- CDC (Aug 4)
Based on recent detections of influenza A (H3N2) virus infections in a number of states across the U.S., this advisory reminds clinicians to consider influenza as a possible diagnosis when evaluating patients with acute respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia, even during the summer months.
http://www2a.cdc.gov/han/archivesys/
ViewMsgV.asp?AlertNum=00316
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Investigation Announcement: Multistate Outbreak of Human Typhoid Fever Infections Associated with Frozen Mamey Fruit Pulp - CDC (Aug 12)
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in two states and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate an outbreak of Salmonella infections serotype Typhi. Salmonella Typhi is the bacterium that causes typhoid fever. On August 12, 2010, a total of 7 confirmed and 2 probable individuals infected with a matching strain have been reported.
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/typhoidfever/index.html
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Human clinical trial of NIH-developed dengue vaccine begins - NIH (Aug 9)
After more than a decade of development at the National Institutes of Health, a vaccine to prevent infection by the mosquito-borne dengue virus has begun human clinical testing. The vaccine was developed by scientists at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and is undergoing clinical study at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore.
http://www.nih.gov/news/health/aug2010/niaid-09.htm
NIH Seeks to Break New Ground in Reducing Health Disparities - NIH (Aug 5)
The National Institutes of Health launched a multidisciplinary network of experts who will explore new approaches to understanding the origins of health disparities, or differences in the burden of disease among population groups. The Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), part of NIH, is contracting with the University of Michigan's School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, to establish the Network on Inequality, Complexity, and Health (NICH).
http://www.nih.gov/news/health/aug2010/od-05.htm
MMWR
MMWR Weekly - CDC (Aug 12)
The Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) series is prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The data in the weekly MMWR are provisional, based on weekly reports to CDC by state health departments. The following emergency preparedness and response related articles of interest were recently published:
August 12, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 31
August 06, 2010 / Vol. 59 / No. 30
To electronically subscribe to the MMWR, go to http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr and enter your email address in the box entitled Get email updates or click on MMWR Subscriptions.
Food & Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA (Aug 13)
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls, and safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
CDC and ATSDR responders are in close communication with other federal agencies and with state health departments, and will work together to recommend measures to protect the public’s health. The agencies are working with the states, emergency responders, and medical professionals to track any health concerns that may be related to the oil spill. CDC and ATSDR recommend that residents continue to pay attention to local and state health officials’ specific health and safety recommendations for their areas.
More About the Public Health Role in Disaster Response
Deep Horizon Fact Sheets
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/
go/doctype/2931/53023/
CDC 2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Resources
http://emergency.cdc.gov/
gulfoilspill2010/index.asp
H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza Resources and Updates
Preliminary Results: Surveillance for Guillain – Barré Syndrome After Receipt of Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine – United States, 2009 – 2010 – CDC/MMWR – Jun 04
To monitor influenza A (H1N1) 2009 monovalent vaccine safety, several federal surveillance systems, including CDC's Emerging Infections Program (EIP), are being used. In October 2009, EIP began active surveillance to assess the risk for GBS after 2009 H1N1 vaccination. Preliminary results from an analysis in EIP comparing GBS patients hospitalized through March 31, 2010, who did and did not receive 2009 H1N1 vaccination showed an estimated age-adjusted rate ratio of 1.77 (GBS incidence of 1.92 per 100,000 person-years among vaccinated persons and 1.21 per 100,000 person-years among unvaccinated persons).
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/
preview/mmwrhtml/mm5921a3.htm
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation – WHO – Jun 04
As of 30 May, worldwide more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 18,138 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_06_04/en/index.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning Prevention – CDC – Jun 03
CO is found in fumes produced by portable generators, stoves, lanterns, and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. People and animals in these spaces can be poisoned and can die from breathing CO. If you don't have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO alarm, now is a great time to buy one. Every year, more than 400 people die in the U. S. from accidental CO poisoning.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/
COpoisoning/
Update: Dengue, Tropical and Subtropical Regions – CDC – Jun 02
Dengue fever is the most common cause of fever in travelers returning from the Caribbean, Central America, and South Central Asia. Dengue infections are commonly reported from most tropical countries of the South Pacific, Asia, the Caribbean, the Americas, and Africa. Travelers can reduce their risk of getting dengue fever by protecting themselves from mosquito bites. For more information on this topic please go to the following web link below:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
content/outbreak-notice/
dengue-tropical-sub-tropical.aspx
Welcome to Knowledge to Action Science Clips, CDC's new weekly digest! – CDC – Jun 03
Each week, to enhance awareness of emerging scientific knowledge, selected science clips will be posted for the public health community. The focus is applied public health research and prevention science that has the capacity to improve health now.
http://www.cdc.gov/phlic/sciclips/
Food and Drug Safety
Stay Safe During National Safety Month – CDC – Jun 03
June is National Safety Month– an ideal time to focus on steps you can take to keep yourself and those you care about safe from unintentional poisoning.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/
PoisonPrevention/
Sagent Pharmaceuticals Initiates a Nationwide Voluntary Recall of All Lots of Ondansetron – FDA – Jun 07
Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced the voluntary nationwide recall of all lots of ondansetron injection in 5% dextrose 32mg / 50 mL (NDC number 25021-776-50) manufactured by Claris Lifesciences and distributed by Sagent. The lot numbers being recalled are: A090309, A090310, A090311 and A090312, which were distributed to hospitals, wholesalers and distributors nationwide from August 2009 through May 2010. Ondansetron injection is an intravenous product used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy or surgery and is supplied in a single dose plastic container.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/
ucm214244.htm
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA – Jun 07
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/
Recalls/default.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
CDC and ATSDR responders are in close communication with other federal agencies and with state health departments, and will work together to recommend measures to protect the public’s health. The agencies are working with the states, emergency responders, and medical professionals to track any health concerns that may be related to the oil spill. CDC and ATSDR recommend that residents continue to pay attention to local and state health officials’ specific health and safety recommendations for their areas. More About the Public Health Role in Disaster Response
UPDATE: CDC Information for the 2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill – CDC – May 28
http://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/
oil_spill_gm_2010.asp/
UPDATE: CDC Resources for Oil Spill Response Workers – CDC – May 28
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/
oilspillresponse/
H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza Resources and Updates
NEW: DSAT Guidance on CDC Import Permits for Swine-Originated Flu– CDC – May 26
This document provides guidance on when a CDC Import Permit is required for the importation into the United States of virus isolates and/or clinical samples associated with the swine-origin, novel influenza A (H1N1) virus outbreak. Including information on obtaining a permit.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
guidance/DSAT.htm
NEW: Post-mortem Care and Safe Autopsy Procedures for Novel H1N1 Influenza– CDC – May 28 The guidance in this document reflects what we currently know about the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus. As additional information becomes available, the guidance may be updated. The Objective: Safely handle human remains during autopsy procedures to prevent transmission of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
post_mortem.htm
UPDATE: Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – May 28
During week 20 (May 16 - 22, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S. Two (0.2%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza. Both subtyped influenza A viruses were 2009 influenza A (H1N1).
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health Guidance Documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
NEW: Hurricane Health and Safety – CDC – May 24
May 24th is National Hurricane Preparedness Week. The 2010 Hurricane Season begins on June 1st and ends on November 30th.Take steps early to prepare by visiting
http://emergency.cdc.gov/
disasters/hurricanes/hcp.asp.
NEW: Hurricane Health & Safety Widgets– CDC – May 24
The CDC Hurricane Health and Safety Tips widget provides weekly tips to help you stay safe and healthy throughout the hurricane season. In addition to the weekly tips, the widget provides you important, timely tips whenever storms make landfall.
http://www.cdc.gov/widgets/#hurricaneWidget
NEW: Rabies Pre-decision Brief for Public Health Action– CDC – May 28
Rabies: Haiti Pre-decision Brief for Public Health Action
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/haiti/rabies_pre-decision_brief.asp
Food and Drug Safety
FDA Announces Collaboration with Drugs.com – FDA – May 26
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today that it will collaborate with the Web site Drugs.com to expand access to the FDA’s consumer health information.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm212844.htm
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA – May 30
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
NEW: Factsheet: What to Expect from the Oil Spill & How to Protect Your Health – CDC – May 21
This factsheet is designed for people who live in the areas surrounding the oil spill. It explains what they can expect from the oil spill and how they can protect their health and safety.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/2010gulfoilspill/
Coastal_Residents_factsheet.pdf/
Resources for Oil Spill Response Workers
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/
oilspillresponse/
Locate CDC resources related to the 2010 Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill
http://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/
oil_spill_gm_2010.asp/
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
UPDATE: CDC Guidance for Day and Residential Camp Responses to Influenza during the 2010 Summer Camp Season – CDC – May 17
This document provides guidance to help prevent and control the spread of influenza (flu), including 2009 H1N1 flu, among campers and camp staff during the 2010 summer camp season. This guidance updates the earlier camp guidance on "novel influenza A (H1N1 flu) virus" that was issued on June 14, 2009.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/camp.htm
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – May 21
During week 19 (May 9 - 15, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S. Fourteen (0.9%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – May 21
As of May 16, 2010, more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 18,097 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_05_21/en/index.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Updated: Diphtheria: Haiti Pre-decision Brief for Public Health Action – CDC – May 21
In order to prepare for a potential outbreak or epidemic of diphtheria as a result of the earthquake in Haiti, CDC subject matter experts (SME) prepared a pre-decisional brief. It provides key recommendations with relevant background information for decision makers in the Haiti Ministry of Health, the U.S. Government, non-governmental organizations, and elsewhere.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/haiti/diphtheria_pre-decision_brief.asp
Locally Acquired Dengue in Key West, FL, 2009 - 2010 – CDC/MMWR – May 21
Twenty-eight cases of dengue have been confirmed in people who have traveled to Key West between September 2009 and April 2010. This report describes the first three dengue cases reported in 2009, briefly summarizes the 2010 case, highlights preliminary findings from the ongoing investigation, and outlines measures used to mitigate and control the outbreak. Clinicians should include dengue in the differential diagnosis of acute febrile illnesses in patients who live in or have recently traveled to subtropical areas of the United States or to the tropics.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5919a1.htm
Violations Identified from Routine Swimming Pool Inspections – CDC/MMWR – May 21
Swimming is the third most popular U.S. sport or exercise activity. The most frequently reported type of recreational water illness (RWI) outbreak is gastroenteritis. CDC analyzed 2008 data from 121,020 routine pool inspections conducted by a convenience sample of 15 state and local agencies. Of 111,487 inspections, 13,532 (12.1%) resulted in immediate closure because of serious violations (e.g., lack of disinfectant in the water). Although these results likely are not representative of all pools in the United States, they suggest the need for increased public health scrutiny and improved pool operation.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5919a2.htm
FCC/FEMA Workshop on 21st Century Emergency Alerting: Leveraging Multiple Technologies to Bring Alerts and Warnings to the Public – FCC/FEMA – May 20
The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHSB) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) National Continuity Programs (NCP) announced this workshop, which will be held in Washington, D.C. on June 10, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The workshop will highlight the status of and relevant details related to the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, including the Next Generation Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Commercial Mobile Alert System.
Registration: http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/event-registration.html
Food and Drug Safety
Urgent Nationwide Alfalfa Sprout Recall – FDA – May 21
Raw Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to Salmonella Outbreak in 10 States. This recall affects raw alfalfa sprouts packaged and labeled as: Caldwell Fresh Foods alfalfa sprouts - 4-ounce plastic cups and one pound plastic bags and in 2-pound and 5-pound plastic bags in cardboard boxes with sticker affixed with the printed words “Caldwell Fresh Foods”; Nature’s Choice alfalfa sprouts - 4-ounce plastic cups; California Exotics brands alfalfa sprouts - 5-ounce plastic clamshell containers. No other alfalfa sprouts are implicated in the outbreak.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm213136.htm
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA – May 21
For information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – May 14
During week 18 (May 2-8, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S.
Twenty six (1.5%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – May 14
As of 9 May, worldwide more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 18,036 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_05_14/en/index.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Oil Spill Response Resources – CDC – May 12
Oil spill response workers may be exposed to many different chemical, physical, biological, and psychological hazards. These hazards vary depending on the type and location of the oil spill, type and stage of response, degree of coordination between entities involved in response and recovery, and the workers’ specific tasks. Therefore, occupational and environmental hazards need to be identified, assessed, and monitored in each oil spill response.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/
oilspillresponse/
Acute Antimicrobial Pesticide-Related Illnesses Among Workers in Health-Care Facilities - California, Louisiana, Michigan, and Texas, 2002 – 2007 – CDC/MMWR – May 14
Health-care facilities use antimicrobial pesticides to prevent pathogen transmission from contaminated environmental surfaces. Occupational exposures to antimicrobial pesticides are known to cause adverse health effects. To assess the nature and frequency of such exposures in health-care settings, CDC analyzed data from pesticide poisoning surveillance programs in California, Louisiana, Michigan, and Texas (the only four states that regularly collect data on antimicrobial pesticide-related illness) for the period 2002 - 2007.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5918a2.htm
Food and Drug Safety
Multistate Outbreak of Human E. coli O145 Infections Linked to Shredded Romaine Lettuce from a Single Processing Facility – CDC – May 12
Local and state public health officials in Michigan, New York, and Ohio are investigating human illnesses caused by E. coli O145. The CDC is supporting these investigations and facilitating regular communication and information sharing between the states and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2010/
ecoli_o145/index.html
FDA Revises Recommendations for Rotavirus Vaccines – FDA – May 14
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today revised its recommendations for rotavirus vaccines for the prevention of the disease in infants and has determined that it is appropriate for clinicians and health care professionals to resume the use of Rotarix and to continue the use of RotaTeq.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/
Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm212149.htm
FDA: Serious Side Effects from Swallowing Topical Benadryl Product – FDA – May 12
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers about potentially serious side effects from mistakenly swallowing Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Stopping Gel, an over-the-counter (OTC) product that should only be used on the skin.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/
Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm211773.htm
USDA Announces New Performance Standards for Salmonella and Campylobacter; New Standards Will Help Prevent Tens of Thousands of Illnesses Per Year – FDA – May 10
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced new performance standards to reduce Salmonella and Campylobacter in young chickens (broilers) and turkeys, fulfilling another key recommendation of the President's Food Safety Working Group.
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/
usdahome?contentidonly=true
&contentid=2010/05/0246.xml
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – May 07
During week 17 (April 24 - May 1, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S. Sixteen (0.9%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – May 7
As of 2nd May, worldwide more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 18,001 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_05_07/en/index.html
Questions and Answers about Updating Guidance on Infection Control
Measures for Influenza in Healthcare Settings – CDC – May 03
CDC is updating the Interim Guidance on Infection Control Measures for 2009 H1N1 Influenza in Healthcare Settings, Including Protection of Healthcare Personnel. Circumstances have changed significantly with respect to availability of a safe and effective vaccine, and in terms of what we know about the health impact of the novel H1N1 influenza strain. The guidance is being updated to reflect newer information.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
guidance/control_measures_qa.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu and Public Health guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Oil Spill Response Resources – CDC – May 05
Oil spill response workers may be exposed to many different chemical, physical, biological, and psychological hazards. These hazards vary depending on the type and location of the oil spill, type and stage of response, degree of coordination between entities involved in response and recovery, and the workers’ specific tasks. Therefore, occupational and environmental hazards need to be identified, assessed, and monitored in each oil spill response.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/
topics/oilspillresponse/
Food and Drug Safety
Multistate Outbreak of Human E. coli O145 Infections Linked to Shredded Romaine Lettuce from a Single Processing Facility – CDC – May 06
Local and state public health officials in Michigan, New York, and Ohio are investigating human illnesses caused by E. coli O145. The CDC is supporting these investigations and facilitating regular communication and information sharing between the states and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2010/
ecoli_o145/index.html
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts – FDA – May 10
This section includes the most significant product actions over the last five years based on the extent of distribution and the degree of health risk. In this section, you will find a listing of FDA and industry press releases regarding the product recalls.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/
Recalls/default.htm
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – Apr 30
During week 16 (April 18-24, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S. Sixteen (1.2%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Apr 30
As of 25th of April, worldwide more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 17,919 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_04_30a/en/index.html
Interim Results: State-Specific Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Coverage - United States, August 2009 - January 2010 – CDC/MMWR – Apr 30
Interim results show that compared with the previous flu season, the 2009-10 flu season saw a 67% increase in estimated vaccine coverage for children and a 30% increase for adults aged 18 - 49 years without high-risk conditions.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5916a1.htm?s_cid=mm5916a1_e%0d%0a
Licensure of a High-Dose Inactivated Influenza Vaccine for Persons Aged ≥65 Years (Fluzone High-Dose) and Guidance for Use - United States, 2010 – CDC/MMWR – Apr 30
Persons aged ≥65 years are at greater risk for hospitalization and death from seasonal influenza compared with other age groups, and they respond to vaccination with lower antibody titers to influenza hemagglutinin (an established correlate of protection against influenza) compared with younger adults (3). On December 23, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed an injectable inactivated trivalent influenza vaccine (Fluzone High-Dose, Sanofi-Pasteur) that contains an increased amount of influenza virus hemagglutinin antigen compared with other inactivated influenza vaccines such as Fluzone.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5916a2.htm?s_cid=mm5916a2_e%0d%0a
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico – CDC – May 02
An explosion aboard the Deep Water Horizon sank the drilling rig, rupturing an underwater pipe, causing oil to spill into the Gulf of Mexico. The April 20th explosion is causing some 210,000 gallons of crude oil to gush each day into the ocean, threatening the coastlines of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.
http://emergencydev.cdc.gov/chemical/
Keeping Food Safe During An Emergency – USDA – May 02
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing recommendations to residents in the Southeast, throughout the Ohio Valley and into the New England area to prepare for severe weather and flooding. USDA is hopeful that this information will help minimize the potential for foodborne illnesses due to power outages and other problems that are often associated with severe weather events.
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/
NR_050210_01/index.asp
Food and Drug Safety
FDA provides consumer advice following recall of products for infants and children – FDA – May 01
Working in consultation with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), McNeil Consumer Healthcare is implementing a voluntary recall of infant and children’s liquid products due to manufacturing deficiencies which may affect quality, purity or potency. Following McNeil’s recall announcement on Friday evening, the FDA is providing additional advice to consumers.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/
Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm210441.htm
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
Updated Questions and Answers: 2009 H1N1 and Pregnancy – CDC – Apr 21
This document provides updated information on pregnancy as a risk factor for serious 2009 H1N1-related complications based on findings from a recent study.
http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu/
in_the_news/pregnancy_qa.htm
CDC Estimates of 2009 H1N1 Influenza Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths in the United States, April 2009 – March 13, 2010 – CDC – Apr 19
More people who are hospitalized or die of flu-related causes are tested and reported, but under-reporting of hospitalizations and deaths occurs as well. For this reason CDC monitors influenza activity levels and trends and virus characteristics through a nationwide surveillance system and uses statistical modeling to estimate the burden of flu illness (including hospitalizations and deaths) in the United States.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
estimates_2009_h1n1.htm
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Apr 22
During week 14 (April 4-10, 2010), influenza activity decreased in the U.S. fifty two (2.7%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Apr 23
23 April 2010 -- As of 18 April 2010, worldwide more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 17,853 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_04_23a/en/index.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Spring Time Outdoor Safety – CDC – Apr 26
The return of warmer temperatures brings thoughts of freedom, relaxation, exploration, and being closer to nature. Whether you're relaxing in the backyard, turning up your garden, hitting the pool, or exploring the great outdoors, here are some ways to help keep you and your family healthy this spring and summer.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/
MovingOutdoors/
Tornado Safety – CDC – Apr 26
Violent storms and tornadoes ripped through parts of the southeastern United States over the weekend. Knowing what to do when you see a tornado, or when you hear a tornado warning, can help protect you and your family. During a tornado, people face hazards from extremely high winds and risk being struck by flying and falling objects. After a tornado, the wreckage left behind poses additional injury risks. Although nothing can be done to prevent tornadoes, there are actions you can take for your health and safety.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/
Global Road Safety – CDC – Apr 26
Travel made possible by motor vehicles supports economic and social development in many countries and makes transporting goods and people fast and easy. Despite these benefits, however, motor vehicles are involved in crashes that are responsible for millions of deaths and injuries every year worldwide. Whether you're on the road at home or abroad, know the risks and take steps to protect your safety.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/GlobalRoadSafety/
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Immunize to Protect Your Baby against Disease – CDC – Apr 26
Immunization is one of the best ways parents can protect their infants and young children from potentially serious diseases. Check to see if your child is up to date on immunizations. National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual celebration of the significant role immunizations play in keeping our children and our communities healthy. NIIW 2010 is April 24—May 1.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/InfantImmunization/
It's Spring–Time to Prevent Lyme Disease – CDC – Apr 26
When you're outside this spring and summer, prevent tick bites and reduce your risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases by following these tips.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/LymeDisease/
May is Asthma Awareness Month – CDC – Apr 26
Asthma is the most common long-term disease of children, but adults have asthma, too. Asthma causes repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing. If you have asthma, you have it all the time, but you will have asthma attacks only when something bothers your lungs. You can control your asthma by knowing the warning signs of an attack, staying away from things that trigger an attack, and following the advice of your health-care provider. To learn more about how you can control your asthma, visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/AsthmaAwareness/
Food and Drug Safety
Incidence of Foodborne Illness, 2009 – CDC – Apr 23
The Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) is the principal foodborne disease component of CDC's Emerging Infections Program (EIP). FoodNet is a collaborative project of the CDC, 10 state health departments (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, and Tennessee), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Foodborne diseases monitored through FoodNet include infections caused by the bacteria Campylobacter, Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Listeria, Salmonella, Shigella, Vibrio, and Yersinia, and the parasites Cryptosporidium and Cyclospora.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/
dsFoodborneIllness/
Texas Firm Recalls Beef Trim Products Due To Possible E. coli O157:H7 Contamination - FSIS – Apr 21
A Fort Worth, Texas, establishment, is recalling approximately 135,500 pounds of beef trim products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/
Recall_025_2010_Release/index.asp
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Apr 26
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Influenza Key Points and Messages
• Flu activity in the United States declined from last week and is low nationally; however, two states in the Southeast continue to report regional activity. Most flu continues to be due to 2009 H1N1.
• As of April 9, 2010, a total of 121,446,320 doses have been shipped.
• Flu activity, caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses, may rise and fall, but is expected to continue for several more weeks.
• CDC estimates that between 42 million and 86 million 2009 H1N1 cases occurred between April 2009 and February 13, 2010. A large number of people in the United States are likely to have antibody or immunity against 2009 H1N1 from vaccination and/or infection with 2009 H1N1.
• CDC continues to encourage people to get vaccinated throughout the flu season. It is important that providers continue to encourage vaccination, especially for those with high risk conditions.
• CDC recommends that health departments, providers and pharmacies retain their unexpired 2009 H1N1 vaccine supplies as a reserve, should demand for vaccination increase before seasonal vaccine becomes available. 2009 H1N1 virus is still circulating and continues to cause illness, hospitalizations, and death.
H1N1 Influenza Resources and Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Apr 16
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 14 ending April 10, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to April 03, 2010 - CDC - Apr 16
As of April 16, 2010, the Aggregate Hospitalizations and Deaths Reporting Activity (AHDRA) has concluded for the 2009-2010 flu season. The AHDRA surveillance system was created specifically in response to the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, and the system will be maintained for quick implementation in the event of another flu pandemic. CDC will continue to track hospitalizations and deaths through its traditional seasonal flu surveillance systems during the 2010-2011 season. Pneumonia and influenza-related deaths in adults and children will be tracked through the 122 Cities Mortality Reporting System. Laboratory confirmed, flu-related deaths in children will continue to be tracked through the Influenza-associated Pediatric Mortality Surveillance system. Laboratory confirmed flu-related hospitalizations in adults and children will be tracked through the Emerging Infections Program (EIP).
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Apr 16
As of April 11, 2010, more than 214 countries and overseas territories worldwide have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 17798 deaths. WHO is actively monitoring the progress of the pandemic through frequent consultations with the WHO Regional Offices and member states and through monitoring of multiple sources of information.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_04_09/en/index.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emerging Infectious Disease (EID) Journal
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the May 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/index.htm
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) - CDC - Apr 16
The most recent issue of MMWR (Vol. 59 / No. 14) was released April 15, 2010. This issue includes a reports on Congenital Syphilis; Preliminary FoodNet Data on the Incidence of Infection with Pathogens Transmitted Commonly Through Food; Composition of the 2010--11 Influenza Vaccine; QuickStats: Percentage of Women Aged >18 Years Who had a Papanicolaou (Pap) Smear Test During the Preceding 3 Years, by Age Group and Poverty; Notifiable Diseases and Mortality Tables; and more.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/
SAMHSA Grants Available for Communities Affected by Economic Downturn - HHS- Apr 14
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is making $16.8 million available in funding for up to four years for its Community Resilience and Recovery Initiative (CRRI) grants. The purpose of this community-based initiative is to improve behavioral health outcomes through coordination and use of evidence based health promotion, illness prevention, and treatment and recovery support services in communities affected by recent economic distress. Applicants for these grants will be expected to implement evidence-based practices and address several of SAMHSA’s 10 strategic initiatives including those involving military families, prevention and trauma.
http://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/
advisories/1004144400.aspx
Introducing the myhealthfinder Widget - HHS - Apr 15
Healthfinder.gov recently launched the myhealthfinder widget. This widget provides screening and prevention recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force based on age, sex, and pregnancy status. The site also features actionable health information and tools presented in an easy-to-use format.
http://www.healthfinder.gov/widgets/
Food and Drug Safety
FDA Launches Medical Device and Radiation-Emitting Product Transparency Web site - FDA - Apr 19
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration launched the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) Transparency Web site today as part of the agency’s transparency initiative. The site will provide information about medical device and radiation-emitting product regulatory processes and decisions, and summaries of data that provide the rationale for agency actions.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm208969.htm
My-A & Co, Recalls Ground Black Pepper Double Golden Fish 3.5oz Jars Due to Salmonella Contamination - FDA - Apr 14
MY-A & CO. of Cheverly, MD is recalling its 3.5 oz jars of Ground Black Pepper Double Golden Fish because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. The product comes in a 3.5oz plastic jar with no product codes on the jars. The recalled products were distributed in retail stores in 11 states, (GA, TX, IL, MD, VA, NC, OH, NY, MA, ME, FL).
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/
ucm208587.htm
Asthma and COPD Inhalers That Contain Ozone-depleting CFCs to be Phased Out; Alternative Treatments Available - FDA - Apr 13
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the phase out schedule for the seven metered-dose inhalers (MDI) used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) being gradually removed from the U.S. marketplace. These inhalers contain ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are propellants that move medication out of the inhaler and into the lungs of patients.
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/
PressAnnouncements/ucm208302.htm
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Apr 13 - 19
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Upcoming COCA Conference Call
Date & Time: Tuesday, April 6, 2010 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM (EST)
Title: A Primer of New Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Guidelines on Human Rabies
Prophylaxis
Speaker: Charles E. Rupprecht, VMD, PhD, Chief, Rabies Program, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention
Call-in information and powerpoint presentation will be forthcoming.
Haiti Earthquake
New: Interim Guidance Document for Rescue Groups Bringing Dogs and Cats from Haiti – CDC – Mar 23
The earthquake on January 12, 2010 and resulting aftershocks have left many animals injured, vulnerable to illness, and in search of food. In an attempt to care for the pets and strays left after the earthquake, several rescue groups have inquired about bringing dogs and cats into the United States. This guidance document was written for U.S. pet rescue and humanitarian relief workers who are considering bringing animals to the United States from Haiti.
http://www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/
interim-guidance-rescue-groups-dogs-cats-haiti.html
Earthquake Information for Clinicians
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/clinicians.asp
CDC Travelers’ Health: Haiti Earthquake and Travel
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquake Information http://emergency.cdc.gov/
disasters/earthquakes/
Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – Mar 25
During week 11 (March 14-20, 2010), influenza activity in the U.S. remained at approximately the same levels as last week. One hundred and thirty nine (4.6%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30, 2009 to March 13, 2010 - CDC – Mar 26
FluView reports that for the week of March 14 – March 20, 2010, flu activity in the United States remained at approximately the same level as the previous week. Approximately 99% of all subtyped influenza A viruses reported to CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Mar 26
As of 21 March 2010, more than 213 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including over 16,931 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_03_26/en/index.html
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
New: 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine with Long-Dated Expiration Q & A – CDC – Mar 24
The 2010-11 seasonal trivalent influenza vaccine will contain a 2009 H1N1-like influenza A strain. The timing of its production and availability is not yet known. The purpose of this document is to address questions raised by the long-expiry vaccine.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
vaccination/qa_longdated_vaccine.htm
New: Changes to the 2009 H1N1 Vaccine and Supply Distribution Effective April 1, 2010 – CDC – Mar 23
Since mid - February 2010, CDC has been working closely with its centralized vaccine distributor to prepare for a second phase of distribution of 2009 H1N1 vaccine and supplies that will take effect on April 1, 2010. The purpose of this document is to describe the key changes to distribution that grantees can expect beginning April 1, 2010.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
vaccination/changes_h1n1_vaccine_supply_dist.htm
New: Everyday Preventive Actions That Can Help Fight Germs, Like Flu – CDC – Mar 22
Flyer summarizing everyday preventive actions that can help slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illness, like flu.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/2009-
10/pdf/everyday_preventive_actions.pdf
2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) in Pregnant Women Requiring Intensive Care - New York City – CDC/MMWR – Mar 26
Pregnant women are at increased risk for severe illness and complications from infection with seasonal influenza and 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1). To characterize the severity of 2009 H1N1 virus infection in pregnant women, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene conducted surveillance for cases in pregnant women requiring intensive care. The findings indicated that, during 2009, 16 pregnant women and one who was postpartum were admitted to intensive-care units. To view the complete article visit: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5911a1.htm
Rapid Development of Drug-Resistant 2009 H1N1 Influenza Reported in Two Cases
– NIH – Mar 26
Two people with compromised immune systems who became ill with 2009 H1N1 influenza developed drug-resistant strains of virus after less than two weeks on therapy. Doctors who treat prolonged influenza infection should be aware that even a short course of antiviral treatment may lead to drug-resistant virus, and clinicians should consider this possibility as they develop initial treatment strategies for their patients who have impaired immune function.
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/news/
newsreleases/2010/resistantflu.htm
1918 and 2009 Pandemic Influenza Viruses Lack a Sugar Topping, Finding Could Aid Vaccine Design – NIH – Mar 24
Although they emerged more than 90 years apart, the influenza viruses responsible for the pandemics of 1918 and 2009 share a structural detail that makes both susceptible to neutralization by the same antibodies.
http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/news/
newsreleases/2010/pandemicflusugar.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (Bureau) set a new date for a colloquium to discuss the public safety and homeland security portion of the National broadband Plan (Plan). The new date and time for the event will be Wednesday, March 31, 2010 from 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. The event, which will be held in the Commission Meeting Room (TW-C305), was originally scheduled for March 26th at 9:00 a.m. and has been pushed back to the new date and time due to necessary scheduling changes.
http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/event-registration.html
Emerging Infectious Disease (EID) Journal
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the April 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/index.htm
Haiti Earthquake
Updated: Haiti Pre-decision Briefs for Public Health Action – CDC – Mar 19
These briefs have been designed to provide key recommendations with relevant background information, for decision makers in the Haiti Ministry of Health, the U.S. Government, non-governmental organizations, and elsewhere.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
haiti/pre-decision_briefs.asp
Earthquake Information for Clinicians
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/clinicians.asp
CDC Travelers’ Health: Haiti Earthquake and Travel
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
content/haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquake Information
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/
Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – Mar 18
During week 10 (March 7 – March 13, 2010), influenza activity remained at approximately the same levels as last week in the U.S. Two hundred (5.6%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30, 2009 to March 13, 2010 - CDC – Mar 18
FluView reports that for the week of March 7 – March 13, 2010, flu activity in the United States remained at approximately the same level as the previous week. All subtyped influenza A viruses reported to CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Mar 19
As of 14 March 2010, worldwide more than 213 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 16,813 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/
2010_03_19/en/index.html
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
NEW: Questions & Answers: Morbid Obesity as a Risk Factor for Hospitalization and Death due to 2009 H1N1 – CDC – Mar 16
This document provides updated information on obesity and morbid obesity as risk factors for serious 2009 H1N1-related complications based on findings from recent studies.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
in_the_news/obesity_qa.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
HHS Declares Public Health Emergency for North Dakota Floods – HHS – Mar 19
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has declared a public health emergency for North Dakota in response to floods affecting the state.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/03/20100319b.html
Broadband & Public Safety and Homeland Security – FCC – Mar – 18
The FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau launched a new web page to better ensure that the public safety community, the general public, government agencies and communications providers have access to the latest news and information on the FCC's efforts to implement the National Broadband Plan for public safety. The web page includes access to the latest press releases, public notices, field hearings, and presentations. We encourage you to visit these pages for updates and background information to assist with your coverage of the National Broadband Plan and its impact on public safety across America. For more detailed information the FCC’s plan please visit: http://www.fcc.gov/pshs/broadband.html
Thunderstorms, Tornadoes, and Floods: Prepare Now Spring Weather – CDC – Mar 15
Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Advance planning for thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes or floods requires specific safety precautions. CDC has highlighted information on common spring severe weather. For more detailed information about specific types of severe weather visit: http://www.cdc.gov/Features/
UnpredictableWeather/
Key Facts About Flood Readiness: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
floods/readiness.asp
Tornadoes:
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
tornadoes/
Natural Disasters & Severe Weather: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
World TB Day – March 24, 2010 – CDC/MMWR – Mar 19
World TB Day is observed each year on March 24 to commemorate the date in 1882 when Robert Koch announced the discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB). Each year, approximately 9 million persons around the world become ill with TB, and nearly 2 million TB-related deaths occur worldwide. World TB Day provides an opportunity for TB programs, nongovernmental organizations, and others to describe problems and solutions related to the TB pandemic and to support worldwide TB control efforts. The U.S. theme for this year's observance is TB Elimination: Together We Can!
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5910a1.htm
Use of a Reduced (4-Dose) Vaccine Schedule for Postexposure Prophylaxis to Prevent Human Rabies – CDC/MMWR – Mar 19
This report summarizes new and updates recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent human rabies Previously, ACIP recommended a 5-dose rabies vaccination regimen with human diploid cell vaccine (HDCV) or purified chick embryo cell vaccine (PCECV). These new recommendations reduce the number of vaccine doses to four. The reduction in doses recommended for PEP was based in part on evidence from rabies virus pathogenesis data, experimental animal work, clinical studies, and epidemiologic surveillance.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/rr5902a1.htm
CDC’s Issue Brief: Unintentional Drug Poisoning in the United States – CDC – Mar 18
More than 26,000 deaths from unintentional drug poisoning occurred in the United States in 2006. Opioid pain medications (such as oxycodone and methadone) were involved in more than half of these deaths. Overall, the unintentional drug poisoning death rate has been rising in recent years and more than doubled between 1999 and 2006. In response to this increase, CDC has developed an issue brief titled, “Unintentional Drug Poisoning in the United States,” which includes recommendations on how health care providers can work to prevent unintentional drug overdoses.
http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/
Poisoning/brief.htm
Start at the Store: 7 Ways to Prevent Foodborne Illness – FDA – Mar 19
Safeguarding your home against foodborne illnesses begins not at home, but at the supermarket, grocery store, or any other place where you buy food that you plan to store and serve.
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/
ConsumerUpdates/ucm094535.htm
Tracking the Impact of Traumatic Brain Injuries – CDC – Mar 17
An estimated 1.7 million deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) occur in the United States each year, according to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2010/
r100317.htm
Haiti Earthquake
Guidance for Healthcare Providers Assisting Travelers Preparing for Haiti Earthquake Response – CDC – Mar 12
This notice is to advise healthcare providers who are assisting patients, such as relief workers, preparing to travel to Haiti for response following the January 12th earthquake near Port-au-Prince.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
content/news-announcements/
healthcare-providers-haiti-earthquake-response.aspx
Guidance for Relief Workers and Others Traveling to Haiti for Earthquake Response
– CDC – Mar 12
This notice is to advise relief workers and other personnel traveling to Haiti to assist with the humanitarian response following the January 12th earthquake near Port-au-Prince. Conditions in the area remain hazardous, including extensive damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/relief-workers-haiti.aspx
Earthquake Information for Clinicians
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/clinicians.asp
CDC Travelers’ Health: Haiti Earthquake and Travel
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquake Information http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report – CDC – Mar 12
During week 9 (February 28 – March 6, 2010), influenza activity remained at approximately the same levels as last week in the U.S. One hundred and seventy four (5.1%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30, 2009 to Mar 06, 2010 - CDC – Mar 12
FluView reports that for the week of February 28 – March 6, 2010, flu activity in the United States remained at approximately the same level as the previous week. All subtyped influenza A viruses reported to CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO – Mar 12
As of 7 March 2010, worldwide more than 213 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 16,713 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_03_12/en/index.html
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• Flu seasons are unpredictable in a number of ways, including when they begin, how severe they are, how long they last and which viruses will spread and when. There were more uncertainties than usual for the 2009-2010 flu season because of the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (previously called "novel H1N1" or "swine flu").
• Though flu activity has declined since late October, there are still uncertainties surrounding the rest of this flu season, including the possibility of the circulation of seasonal influenza viruses and ongoing circulation of 2009 H1N1 viruses. Flu activity, caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses, may rise and fall, but it is expected to continue for several more weeks.
• In past pandemics, flu activity has occurred in waves and it’s possible that the United States could experience another wave of flu activity in the winter or spring of 2010 or localized outbreaks.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
HHS/CDC NIVW Webinar: 2009 H1N1 Influenza and its Impact on People with Chronic Medical
– CDC – Mar 10
During the webinar, the presenters answered questions from participants. This document contains additional questions and answers that followed this webinar.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/NIVW/pdf/faq_nivw.pdf
http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/confcall_archive.asp
American College Health Association (ACHA) Influenza Vaccination Letter – CDC – Mar 8
This is a letter developed jointly by the American College Health Association (ACHA) and CDC intended for distribution to colleges and universities across the country prior to Spring Break. The message to students is: Don't let influenza spoil your plans for Spring Break! Take the opportunity to get vaccinated before leaving for Spring Break and protect yourself, friends and family against 2009 H1N1 flu. The letter can be viewed at: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/institutions/
ACHA_Influenza_Vaccination_Letter.htm
Flu Print Materials Available in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hmong, Korean, Russian and Vietnamese – CDC – Mar 11
This year's flu materials are now available in additional languages. Materials include messaging to address both Seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu (sometimes called "swine flu") recommendations.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/additional_print.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
H1N1 Information for Healthcare Providers
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Key Facts About Flood Readiness – CDC – Mar 12
For some basic steps to take to prepare for the storm please click on the following link:
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/readiness.asp
Flood Safety Awareness Week March 15-19, 2010 – FEMA – Mar 12
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is pleased to support the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)-sponsored 2010 National Flood Safety Awareness Week, observed March 15-19. Flooding is a coast to coast threat in the United States and its territories in all months of the year, irrespective of local “flood seasons.” According to FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Dennis Hunsinger, flooding is the nation’s number one natural disaster.
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema
Spring Ahead To Prepare For Disasters – FEMA – Mar 11
Daylight Savings Time in the United States starts on the second Sunday in March of each year and the Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages all Americans to use the change to daylight savings time to update emergency preparedness plans.
http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts – FDA – Mar 12
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
COCA Weekly Update - Feb 08 - Feb 16, 2010
The following updates were made to CDC information and guidance from Feb 08 - Feb 16, 2010. If you have any questions on these or other clinical issues, please write to us at coca@cdc.gov.
Haiti Earthquake
Meeting Haiti's Health Needs One Month After Quake - WHO - Feb 12
In the month following Haiti's massive earthquake, World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners have been supporting scores of hospitals, mobile clinics, and other health facilities to deliver life-saving and basic health care services to Haitians affected by the crisis. Huge needs persist, particularly expanding health services, providing shelter and sanitation, as well as controlling diseases ahead of the coming rainy season. Resources, information, health updates, and more are available on the WHO website.
http://www.who.int/hac/crises/hti/en/index.html
Mental Health Advisory for Health Professionals Providing Care for Survivors of the 2010 Haitian Earthquake - CDC - Feb 12
This document provides information on mental health considerations for survivors of the 2010 Haiti Earthquake. Developed for health professionals, this document details physical, cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal reactions to traumatic events in the context of disasters. This information is available at: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
mentalhealth_usdocs.asp
New: Interim Recommendations for the Medical and Psychological Evaluation of Individuals Arriving from Haiti
http://wwwnd.cdc.gov/travel/content/
recommendations-evaluation-individuals-haiti.aspx
Updated: Guidance for Healthcare Providers Assisting Travelers Preparing for Haiti Earthquake Response
http://wwwnd.cdc.gov/travel/content/id/2450.aspx
Guidelines for the Management of Acute Diarrhea After a Disaster
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/
diarrheaguidelines.asp
Travel Health Alert Notice for Clinicians Caring for Persons Arriving from Haiti
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/files/clinicianshaiti.ashx
Earthquake Information for Clinicians
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/clinicians.asp
CDC Travelers’ Health: Haiti Earthquake and Travel
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquakes Information http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/
Earthquake Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and Podcasts - CDC - Feb 16
CDC Earthquake PSAs and Podcasts provide messages about what you can do to protect yourself and your family before, during, and after an earthquake.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/psa/
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Feb 12
During week 5 (January 31 - February 6, 2010), influenza activity remained at approximately the same levels as last week in the U.S. 206 (4.8%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to February 06, 2010 - CDC - Feb 12
FluView reports that for the week of January 31 - February 6, 2010, flu activity in the United States remained about the same as during the previous week. Flu activity is relatively low at this time, with most flu continuing to be caused by 2009 H1N1. Flu activity, caused by either 2009 H1N1 or seasonal flu viruses, may rise and fall, but it is expected to continue for several more months.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/
us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO - Feb 12
As of February 7 2010, worldwide more than 212 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 15292 deaths. WHO is actively monitoring the progress of the pandemic through frequent consultations with the WHO Regional Offices and member states and through monitoring of multiple sources of information.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_02_12/
en/index.html
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness (ILI) nationally increased slightly over last week but remain low overall. The national increase in ILI was driven by elevated ILI in 3 of 10 U.S. regions. Regions 4, 7, and 9 reported ILI slightly higher than average for the United States.
• The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza based on the 122 Cities report decreased over the previous week and is now lower than expected for this time of year.
• In addition, another three flu-related pediatric deaths were reported this week: two of these deaths were associated with laboratory confirmed 2009 H1N1.
• Since April 2009, CDC has received reports of 324 laboratory-confirmed pediatric deaths: 274 due to 2009 H1N1, 48 pediatric deaths that were laboratory confirmed as influenza, but the flu virus subtype was not determined, and two pediatric deaths that were associated with seasonal influenza viruses. A table showing reports of flu-related pediatric deaths (including a cumulative total of 2009 H1N1 pediatric deaths since April 2009) is available at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#pedh1n1cases
• No states reported widespread influenza activity. Six states reported regional influenza activity. They are: Alabama, Georgia, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, and South Carolina.
• CDC has reported a cumulative 60 cases of oseltamivir resistant 2009 H1N1 viruses in the United States since April 2009.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
Abbreviated Pandemic Influenza Plan Template for Primary Care Provider Offices: Guidance from Stakeholders - CDC - Feb 09
This planning tool was developed based on input from stakeholders (PCPs, PCP office managers, hospitals, local and state public health departments, and local and state emergency management agencies) during a CDC-sponsored meeting in August 2009. It is intended to assist PCPs and office managers with preparing their offices for an increase in patient calls and visits, whether during the 2009-2010 influenza season or future influenza seasons.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/pdf/
abb_pandemic_influenza_plan.pdf
2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Influenza and Hispanic Communities: Questions and Answers - CDC - Feb 11
These questions and answers summarize the current understanding of the impact of 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza virus on Hispanics/Latinos, describe some of the barriers to uptake of 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccines, and outline potential strategies for improving health and increasing vaccine coverage in Hispanic/Latino communities.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa_hispanic.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Travel
Winter Olympics
Be part of the action, not stuck on the sidelines, during the XXI Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, Canada. Stay healthy and safe while going to events and mixing with people from all over the world.
You can see the CDC feature on travel to the Vancouver Olympic Games.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/WinterOlympics/
Way To Go: Passport to Health
Each year more Americans are travelling overseas. This video focuses on pre-travel advice. Health experts suggesting that you take several key steps to be proactive, prepared, and protected against injury or illness while outside of the United States, especially in developing nations.
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/PassportToHealth/
Way To Go: Many Healthy Returns
International travel is usually very safe but there are things you should do to stay safe and healthy. Experts show you how to avoid problems when traveling in developing nations. This video provides during travel tips.
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/ManyHealthyReturns/
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Sebelius, Solis Announce Nearly $1 Billion Recovery Act Investment in Advancing Use of Health IT, Training Workers for Health Jobs of the Future - HHS – Feb 12
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Labor Secretary Hilda Solis today announced a total of nearly $1 billion in Recovery Act awards to help health care providers advance the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology (IT) and train workers for the health care jobs of the future.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/
02/20100212a.html
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Feb 12
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Feb 01 - Feb 08, 2010
Haiti Earthquake
After an Earthquake: Mental Health Information for Professionals - CDC - Feb 06
First responders or relief workers may encounter extremely stressful situations, such as witnessing a tremendous loss of life, serious injuries, and destruction. It is important to recognize that these experiences may cause psychological or emotional difficulties. Here are some resources for first responders and relief workers.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
mentalhealth_docs.asp#1
Special Report – Health Concerns in Haiti: Infectious Disease and Mental Health Perspective - NIH - Feb 08
NIH experts discuss health concerns in Haiti from the infectious diseases and mental illness perspectives in this excerpt from episode 102 of the NIH Research Radio Podcast.
http://www.nih.gov/news/radio/feb2010/
20100204Haiti.htm
Interim Recommendations for Initial Domestic Medical Screening of Haitian Orphan Parolees - CDC - Feb 02
This document provides medical screening recommendations for diseases of public health importance in orphaned children entering the United States from Haiti under humanitarian parole status. The target audience for this information is domestic medical providers evaluating orphaned children being evacuated from Haiti.
http://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/exams/
recommendations-domestic-medical-
screening-haitian-orphan.html
HHS Activates Additional Components of National Disaster Medical System to Help U.S. Hospitals Treat Survivors of Earthquake in Haiti - HHS - Feb 01
As part of the ongoing medical response to the Haiti earthquake, USAID, the agency coordinating the US Government response, announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has activated additional components of the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) to help U.S. hospitals provide care to critically ill survivors.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/02/20100201b.html
Haitian Earthquake Victims Seeking to Bring Pets into the United States - CDC - Feb 05
Questions and answers related to this topic can be viewed at the following:
http://www.cdc.gov/animalimportation/questions-answers-haitian-earthquake-pets.html
Earthquake Information for Clinicians
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/clinicians.asp
CDC Travelers’ Health: Haiti Earthquake and Travel
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquakes Information http://emergency.cdc.gov/
disasters/earthquakes/
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Feb 05
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 04 ending January 30, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to January 30, 2010 - CDC - Feb 05
Flu activity remained at approximately the same levels as last week in the United States during the week of January 24 - 30, 2010, as reported in FluView. No states reported widespread influenza activity, six states reported regional influenza activity. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness and flu-associated hospitalizations was below national baseline. Flu-associated deaths was above the epidemic threshold.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO- Feb 06
As of 31 January 2010, worldwide more than 209 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 15,174 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_02_5/
en/index.html
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
(New) To ensure that its vaccine meets potency standards, Sanofi Pasteur (the manufacturer) is shortening the expiration period of all its 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in pre-filled syringes that are not included in either of the two previous Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 vaccine recalls (See Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Vaccine in Pre-filled Syringes Questions & Answers (February 2010) and Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Certain Lots of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Pediatric (0.25 mL, for 6-35 month olds) Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes Questions & Answers (December 2009)).
(New) There are no safety concerns with the recalled lots of 2009 H1N1 vaccine and no re-administration of the vaccine is required. All of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine lots successfully passed pre-release testing and additional post-release testing supports the conclusion that there is no cause for concern over safety.
(Updated) As of Thursday, February 5, 2010, a cumulative prorata total of 148,077,570 doses had been made available for ordering since vaccine shipping began.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
Questions & Answers: Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall Of Sanofi Pasteur 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine In Pre-filled Syringes (February 2010) - CDC - Feb 05
Why are some of the doses of H1N1 vaccine manufactured in pre-filled syringes being recalled from the market?
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/qa_recall.htm
Shortened Expiration Period For Sanofi Pasteur 2009 H1N1 Vaccine In Pre-filled Syringes Questions & Answers - CDC - Feb 05
All lots of monovalent 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in pre-filled syringes manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur, not included in the two earlier recalls, should now be administered by February 15, 2010 regardless of the expiration imprinted on the package.
http://www.flu.gov/individualfamily/vaccination/expiration_qa.html
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Coordinating Call Centers for Responding to Pandemic Influenza and Other Public Health Emergencies: A Workbook for State and Local on the CDC Web site - CDC - Feb 04
The workbook was compiled by a group of subject matter experts (SMEs) who provided input on the managerial, operational, technological, medical, legal, and communications aspects of the various types of call centers that exist today and the methodology for coordinating them during a public health emergency. The workbook was produced for those local and state planners who are responsible for developing response plans for public health emergencies, such as an influenza pandemic.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/healthcare/responders.asp
Everyone Wins at the Olympic Winter Games with Healthy Travel Preparations - CDC - Feb 02
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers some simple tips to help travelers share gold medal memories – but not the flu – at the games. Teamwork will be the key to everyone enjoying a healthy experience at the Olympic and Paralympic games. You can help in the fight to control the flu’s spread by remembering to “Stop, Wash and Go".
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/2010/r100202.htm
Food and Drug Safety
Update: Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Montevideo Infections - CDC - Feb 05
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in many states, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the State of Rhode Island to investigate a multistate outbreak of Salmonella serotype Montevideo infections.
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/montevideo/index.html
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Feb 05
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls
Jan 25 - Feb 01, 2010
Haiti Earthquake
HHS Emergency Response in Haiti: Summary Report, Jan. 30 - HHS - Jan 30
The HHS medical teams have reported seeing more than 20,800 patients so far, including approximately 2,200 on Jan. 29. Since they began seeing patients Jan 17, HHS medical teams have performed 71 surgeries and delivered 26 babies. HHS currently has approximately 270 people deployed in Haiti to support relief efforts. The remainder of the report can be viewed at:
http://www.hhs.gov/haiti/summaryrept01302010.html
Information for Clinicians - CDC - Jan 30
The Information for Clinicians webpage provides clinicians with a list of resources for potential health concerns that patients may present either on the ground or returning from Haiti. Some of the resources included were developed for other types of disasters but have information that can be applied to the Haiti response efforts. These resources are being updated as needed at the following site: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
clinicians.asp
Important Health Information for Parents Adopting Children from Haiti during the 2010 Earthquake Recovery - CDC - Jan 29
Even before the 2010 earthquake, the health of many Haitian orphans was very poor. Serious infectious diseases, especially tuberculosis (TB), are a concern in Haiti. High rates of malnutrition is also a serious concern. Orphans tend to be greatly affected by these health issues. Therefore, it is very important that children coming to the United States from Haiti are screened for such illnesses so that they can be treated as soon as possible.
http://www.cdc.gov/immigrantrefugeehealth/
exams/parents-adopting-children-haiti-earthquake.html
Health Alert Notices - CDC - Jan 29
CDC has developed a Health Alert Notices that identify potential health problems that arrivals from Haiti should watch for and share with their clinicians. The Health Alert Notices can be found in English, French, and Haitian Creole at:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
haiti-earthquake-travel.aspx
Traveler’s Health
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquakes Information http://emergency.cdc.gov/
disasters/earthquakes/
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Jan 29
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 03 ending January 23, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to January 02, 2010 - CDC - Jan 29
Flu activity remained at the same levels this week in the United States during the week of January 17 - 23, 2010, as reported in FluView. No states reported widespread influenza activity, five states reported regional influenza activity. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness and flu-associated hospitalizations decreased from the previous week. Flu-associated deaths remain the same form the previous week and is higher than expected for this time of year.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/
us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO- Jan 29
As of 24 January 2010, worldwide more than 209 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 14,711 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_01_29/
en/index.html
Summary of 2009 Monovalent H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Data – Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System - CDC - Jan 28
CDC and FDA provide weekly updates on vaccine safety monitoring activities. The information summarizes adverse event reports to VAERS after the administration of 2009 H1N1 monovalent influenza vaccine.
http://vaers.hhs.gov/resources/
2010H1N1Summary_Jan28.pdf
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• As of Thursday, January 28, 2010, a cumulative prorata total of
147,301,010 doses had been made available for ordering since vaccine shipping began.
• People should get a flu vaccine every year because after being
vaccinated, your immunity declines over time and may be too low to provide
protection after a year.
• CDC continues to encourage people to get vaccinated throughout the flu
season, which can last as late as May. Flu seasons are unpredictable in a
number of ways, including when they begin, how severe they are, how long they last and which viruses will spread. There were more uncertainties than usual going into this flu season (2009-2010), because of the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (previously called "novel H1N1" or "swine flu").
• Though flu activity has declined since the late fall, there are still
uncertainties surrounding the rest of this flu season, including the possibility of the circulation of seasonal influenza viruses and ongoing circulation of 2009 H1N1 viruses. In past pandemics, flu activity has occurred in waves and it’s possible that the United States could experience another wave of flu activity in the winter or spring. In addition, sporadic cases of influenza may also be detected in the summer.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
Outbreaks of 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Among Long-Term-Care Facility Residents - Three States, 2009 - CDC/MMWR - Jan 29
This report summarizes three outbreaks, which involved facilities primarily housing older patients. These outbreaks illustrate that, despite the lower risk for infection with 2009 H1N1 among persons aged ≥65 years compared with seasonal influenza, 2009 H1N1 outbreaks still can occur in LTCFs. The complete article can be viewed at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5903a3.htm
New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
NEW: Guidance from Pediatric Stakeholders: A Coordinated Approach to Communicating Pediatric-related Information on Pandemic Influenza at the Community Level - CDC - Jan 27
The purpose of this document is to provide a suggested approach, based on input from pediatric stakeholders, to communicating pediatric-related information on pandemic influenza at the community level in a step-by-step manner. This is a suggested approach to coordinating communication and disseminating information; it can be adapted or modified to suit most communities as they see fit. The goal is to give community planners "talking points" for discussions on a coordinated approach to communication in their community.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
|
pediatrics_tool.htm
UPDATED: Key Facts About 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine - CDC - Jan 27
A flu vaccine is the single best way to protect against influenza illness. This season, there is a seasonal flu vaccine to protect against seasonal flu viruses and a 2009 H1N1 vaccine to protect against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus (sometimes called “swine flu”). This page contains information about the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/vaccine_keyfacts.htm
UPDATED: Vaccine against 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus - CDC - Jan 27
Recommendations for Vaccine against 2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
vaccination/public/vaccination_qa_pub.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emerging Infectious Disease (EID) Journal
The Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) journal provides recognition of new and re-emerging infections and understanding of factors involved in disease emergence, prevention, and elimination. It also represents the scientific communications component of CDC's efforts against the threat of emerging infections. See the February 2010 issue of the EID journal at the following link:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/EID/index.htm
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
HHS Secretary and Surgeon General Join First Lady to Announce Plans to Combat Overweight and Obesity and Support Healthy Choices - HHS - Jan 28
First Lady Michelle Obama, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin announced plans to help Americans lead healthier lives through better nutrition, regular physical activity, and by encouraging communities to support healthy choices.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/01/20100128c.html
Food and Drug Safety
Investigation Update: Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Montevideo Infections - CDC -
Jan 29
CDC is collaborating with public health officials in many states, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the State of Rhode Island to investigate a multistate outbreak of Salmonella serotype Montevideo infections.
http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/
montevideo/index.html
Keeping Food Safe During An Emergency - USDA (US Department of Agriculture) - Jan 30
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing recommendations to those affected by dangerous winter storms, including heavy snow, sleet mixed with snow, ice, bitter cold weather, gusty winds or heavy rain in the Mid-Atlantic, the eastern portions of the Mid-West, and Southeastern regions of the United States. USDA is hopeful that this information will help minimize the potential for foodborne illnesses due to power outages and other problems that are often associated with severe weather events.
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/
NR_013010_01/index.asp
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Jan 29
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Jan 19 - 25, 2010
Haiti Earthquake 2010 Update
New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
• CDC Responds to the Haiti Earthquake - CDC - Jan 24
CDC is working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), various branches of the U.S. military, and other federal and international agencies to help communities in Haiti recover from the powerful earthquake that struck the country on January 12, 2010. http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/haiti/cdc_earthquake_response.asp
• Updated - Guidance for Relief Workers and Others Traveling to Haiti for Earthquake Response - CDC - Jan 22
This notice is to advise relief workers and other personnel traveling to Haiti to assist with the humanitarian response following the January 12th earthquake near Port-au-Prince. Conditions in the area remain hazardous, including extensive damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/relief-workers-haiti.aspx
• Updated - TB Guidance for Haiti Earthquake Responders - CDC - Jan 21
This web link provides the most recent CDC recommendations on TB guidance in the wake of CDC's response to the Haiti Earthquake:
http://www.cdc.gov/tb/NewsandAnnoucements/
earthquakes.htm
• Traveler’s Health
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
travel-health-warning/haiti-earthquake.aspx
• CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquakes Information
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Jan 22
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 02 ending January 16, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to January 02, 2010 - CDC - Jan 22
Flu activity decreased slightly in the United States during the week of January 10 - 16, 2010, as reported in FluView. No states reported widespread influenza activity, seven states reported regional influenza activity. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness and flu-associated hospitalizations decreased from the previous week. Flu-associated deaths increased over the previous week and is higher than expected for this time of year.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO- Jan 22
As of 17 January 2010, worldwide more than 209 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 14,142 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_01_22/en/index.html
Summary of 2009 Monovalent H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Data – Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System - CDC - Jan 22
CDC and FDA provide weekly updates on vaccine safety monitoring activities. The information summarizes adverse event reports to VAERS after the administration of 2009 H1N1 monovalent influenza vaccine.
http://vaers.hhs.gov/resources/
2010H1N1Summary_Jan22.pdf
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• As of Thursday, January 21, 2010, a cumulative prorata total of 144,741,750 doses had been made available for ordering since vaccine shipping began.
• As of Thursday, January 21, 2010, there were a total of 118,072,700 doses ordered.
• The vaccine for 2009 H1N1 flu will be the same for the entire 2009-2010 influenza season, which extends into the spring of 2010. The "2009" in the name only relates to the year the virus was first identified; it does not have to do with how long the vaccine will work or the year in which it should be administered. The 2009 H1N1 strain is not included in the 2009-2010 seasonal flu vaccine because it was identified after manufacturers had started making the seasonal flu vaccine.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
Update: Influenza Activity - United States, August 30, 2009 - January 9, 2010 - MMWR/CDC - Jan 22
MMWR article Update: Influenza Activity - United States is now available. This report summarizes U.S. influenza activity from August 30, 2009, through January 9, 2010. The complete article can be viewed at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5902a3.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
GAO Reports about Health State Efforts to Plan for Medical Surge Could Benefit from Shared Guidance for Allocating Scarce Medical Resources - GAO (Government Accountability Office) -
Jan 25
In its June 2008 report, which is summarized in this statement, GAO found that following a mass casualty event that could involve thousands, or even tens of thousands, of injured or ill victims, health care systems would need the ability to "surge," that is, to adequately care for a large number of patients or patients with unusual medical needs. The federal government has provided funding, guidance, and other assistance to help states prepare for medical surge in a mass casualty event.
http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-10-381T
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Jan 22
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link:
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
CDC 2010- Message for COCA Partners on Emerging Events - January 22, 2010
A. H1N1 Key Points, VAERS Report and FluView
Attached are the updated CDC Key Points for seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu as of January 22, 2010 and an updated Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) summary. The updated FluView for Week 2 ending January 16, 2010 is available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
B. Podcast – CDC/Medscape Expert Commentary for Clinicians
CDC and Medscape partnered together to create a video series designed to provide information to physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. This series offers commentaries on current topics important to all practicing clinicians. Two podcast featuring CDC's Dr. Sonja Rasmussen discussing guidelines related to H1N1Influenza and pregnancy are now available on the CDC website.
• 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine and Pregnancy
http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=726042
• Antiviral Medications for Treatment of 2009 H1N1 Influenza and Pregnancy
http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=726043
For access to the complete CDC and Medscape commentary series visit: http://www.medscape.com/partners/cdc/
public/cdc-commentary
C. MMWR Article: Update: Influenza Activity --- United States, August 30, 2009--January 9, 2010
MMWR article Update: Influenza Activity --- United States is now available. This report summarizes U.S. influenza activity from August 30, 2009, through January 9, 2010. The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5902a3.htm
D. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
• Updated: Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from Aug 30, 2009 to Jan 16, 2010
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
• Updated: Open Letter to the American People about the H1N1 Flu Vaccine
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/open_letter_h1n1_vaccine.htm
• Summary of Tribal Crisis and Emergency Risk Communications (CERC)Training
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/statelocal/cerc_training.htm
• Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
• Novel H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Haiti Earthquake 2010 Updates
A. Resources for Clinicians Treating Individuals Returning From Haiti - COCA Clinical Reminder
CDC continues to develop and compile guidance and information for communities responding to the Haiti earthquake. Attached please find a list of resources that CDC has identified that may be useful to healthcare providers treating individuals arriving from Haiti. The attached list highlights some of the infectious diseases that providers may encounter while treating evacuees and/or returning relief workers. The COCA Clinical Reminder with this information is available at: http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/reminders/.
B. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
• Updated - Guidance for Relief Workers and Others Traveling to Haiti for Earthquake Response
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/relief-workers-haiti.aspx
• CDC Responds to the Haiti Earthquake
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/haiti/cdc_earthquake_response.asp
• Traveler’s Health
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/
• CDC Emergency Twitter account
http://twitter.com/cdcemergency
• CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response Earthquakes Information
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
On behalf of the Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA)
Joint Information Center (JIC) Clinician Communication Team
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Dec 14 - 21, 2009 Updates
Today's topics Include:
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CDC Emergency on Twitter
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Jan 15
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 01 ending January 09, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to January 02, 2010 - CDC - Jan 15
Flu activity continues to decrease in the United States during the week of January 03 - 09, 2010, as reported in FluView. No states reported widespread influenza activity, nine states reported regional influenza activity. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness, flu-associated hospitalizations, and flu-associated deaths decreased from the previous week.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
CDC Estimates of 2009 H1N1 Influenza Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths in the United States, April – December 12, 2009 - CDC - Jan 15
The CDC monitors influenza activity levels and trends and virus characteristics through a nationwide surveillance system and uses statistical modeling to estimate the burden of flu illness (including hospitalizations and deaths) in the United States.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/estimates_2009_h1n1.htm
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO- Jan 15
As of 10 January 2010, worldwide more than 208 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 13,554 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_01_15/en/index.html
Summary of 2009 Monovalent H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Data – Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System - CDC - Jan 14
CDC and FDA provide weekly updates on vaccine safety monitoring activities. The information summarizes adverse event reports to VAERS after the administration of 2009 H1N1 monovalent influenza vaccine.
http://vaers.hhs.gov/resources/
2010H1N1Summary_Jan14.pdf
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
- As of Thursday, January 14, 2010, a cumulative prorata total of 138,934,400 doses had been made available for ordering since vaccine shipping began.
- As of Thursday, January 14, 2010, there were a total of 115,246,700 doses ordered and 114,850,120 doses shipped.
- Unvaccinated healthcare workers not only risk infecting themselves and their family members, but also the patients who have entrusted them with their care and who often have medical conditions that place them at high risk for severe complications from influenza.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
MMWR Article: Interim Results: Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccination Coverage – CDC – Jan 15
MMWR article Interim Results: Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccination Coverage - United States is now available. CDC analyzed results from the National 2009 H1N1 Flu Survey (NHFS) and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey, conducted December 27, 2009 - January 2, 2010, and December 1 - 27, 2009, respectively. The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm59e0115a1.htm
Q & A: Fraud and Abuse Related to 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine - CDC - Jan 13
This document provides information to state/local immunization programs regarding options for reporting certain criminal, fraud and abuse matters relating to the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine and ancillary supplies.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
vaccination/h1n1_fraud_abuse.htm
Open Letter to the American People about the H1N1 Flu Vaccine - CDC - Jan 11
In an Open Letter to the American People, over thirty major health care provider and public health organizations encouraged Americans to get the H1N1 vaccine. This letter emphasizes that the H1N1 vaccine is safe, effective, and the best way to protect against the flu.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
open_letter_h1n1_vaccine.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Haiti Earthquake
Haiti Disaster Volunteering - Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) - Jan 12
There has been an outpouring of offers from the medical community to assist in Haiti response. If you or anyone else is interested in volunteering register at:
http://www.cidi.org/incident/haiti-10a/
HHS Deploying U.S. Medical Personnel to Haiti - HHS - Jan 14
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has activated the National Disaster Medical System and the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps. More than 250 personnel are in the process of deploying to Haiti and over 12,000 personnel could possibly assist in the coming days.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/01/20100114b.html
Public Health Issues and Priorities for the Haiti Earthquake - CDC - Jan 14
Based on previous experience with disasters in Haiti and earthquakes in other countries, CDC has a general understanding of what the public health needs will be in Haiti following the January 12th earthquake. The following projections and recommendations take into account Haiti’s socio-economic and demographic situation, and the health of its people prior to the earthquake.
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/
earthquakes/healthconcerns_haiti.asp
Guidance for U.S. Residents in Haiti - CDC - Jan 14
The US Department of State has issued the following guidance to US residents in Haiti:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/guidance-us-residents-haiti.aspx
CDC Earthquake Resources
http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
Message from Medical Reserve Corps
The Medical Reserve Corps is a national network of local groups of volunteers committed to improving the health, safety and resiliency of their communities. MRC volunteers include medical and public health professionals, as well as others interested in strengthening the public health infrastructure and improving the preparedness and response capabilities of their local jurisdiction. MRC units identify, screen, train and organize the volunteers, and utilize them to support routine public health activities and augment preparedness and response efforts. There are currently 873 MRC units, and just over 200,000 MRC volunteers, in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and several territories.
Every community faces hazards and has vulnerable populations. Those communities that are fortunate to have active MRC units are likely to be more resilient in the face of those hazards and better able to assist those in need. Right now, for example, with the current possibility for the repatriation of thousands of U.S. citizens living in Haiti, there could be a need to serve these people locally. MRC volunteers are poised to help.
Rather than wait for disaster to strike at home, we need to build strong resources now. Please consider joining or supporting your local MRC unit. To find out more about the MRC, please go to www.medicalreservecorps.gov, send an email to MRCcontact@hhs.gov, or call 301-443-4951.
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Jan 19
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Jan 04 - 11, 2010
2009 Influenza Situation Update
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Jan 08
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 52 ending January 02, 2010. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to January 02, 2010 - CDC - Jan 08
Flu activity decreased slightly in the United States during the week of December 27, 2009 - January 02, 2010, as reported in FluView. One state continues to report widespread flu activity a decline of 3 states from last week. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness, flu-associated hospitalizations, and flu-associated deaths decreased from the previous week.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
Summary of 2009 Monovalent H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Data – Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System - CDC - Jan 08
CDC and FDA provide weekly updates on vaccine safety monitoring activities. The information summarizes adverse event reports to VAERS after the administration of 2009 H1N1 monovalent influenza vaccine.
http://vaers.hhs.gov/resources/
2010H1N1Summary_Jan08.pdf
WHO Updates International H1N1 Situation - WHO- Jan 08
As of 3 January 2009, worldwide more than 208 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 12,799 deaths.
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_01_08/
en/index.html
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• This season’s National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) is January 10-16, 2010.
• NIVW is a national observance that was established in 2006 to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as foster greater use of flu vaccine after the holiday season into January and beyond.
• We are fortunate that flu activity has declined in recent weeks. However, flu activity is expected to continue for months, caused by either 2009 H1N1 viruses or regular seasonal flu viruses. Since 2009 H1N1 disease is likely to continue into the new year, NIVW is an important opportunity to maintain or increase the uptake of vaccination against 2009 H1N1 flu.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
NEW: Fact Sheet: Safety of Thimerosal in Vaccines Against 2009 H1N1 Flu
CDC is aware that pregnant women, parents of young children, and others may have questions about the safety of thimerosal in vaccines against 2009 H1N1 flu. The following fact sheet provides some information to help in making decisions.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/
vaccine_factsheet.htm
NEW: Flu information for People with Diabetes and Caregivers of People with Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to get flu-related complications like pneumonia and even be hospitalized or die from the flu than other people. Influenza may also interfere with blood glucose management. This fact sheet contains important information for diabetics.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/diabetes/
diabetes_factsheet.htm
Locate all H1N1 Flu guidance documents
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance/
2009 H1N1 Influenza: Resources for Clinicians
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinicians/
Emergency Preparedness & Response
HHS Delivers the Nation’s First Health Security Strategy - HHS - Jan 07
HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius released The National Health Security Strategy, the nation’s first comprehensive strategy focused on protecting people’s health during a large-scale emergency. The strategy sets priorities for government and non-government activities over the next four years.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/
2010pres/01/20100107a.html
Frigid Temperatures Bring Health Risks - CDC - Jan 05
When the temperature drops, staying safe and warm and performing everyday activities can be challenging and dangerous. Young children, older adults, and the chronically ill are most at risk of having cold-related health problems.
http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/
2010/a100105.htm
Travelers' Health
CDC Commentary: Advice for Patients Traveling During Flu Season - CDC - Jan 08
With 2009 H1N1 influenza in the news, your patients may be turning to you for advice on how to avoid getting the flu during travel. There are several recommendations you can provide to help CDC make the case for healthy travel this flu season.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/713704
Enjoy a safe and healthy Lunar New Year! - CDC - Jan 07
Many travelers are expected to visit Asia in the upcoming weeks to celebrate the beginning of the Year of the Tiger. Lunar New Year falls on February 14, 2010. If you are traveling, the Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) would like to share information and tips that will help you stay healthy and enjoy your trip.
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/lunar-new-year-2010.aspx
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Jan 08
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Dec 14 - 21, 2009 Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Dec 18
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 49 ending December 12, 2009. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
2009 H1N1 Flu International Situation Update - CDC - Dec 18
This report provides an update to the international situation as of December 18, 2009. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to report updated 2009 H1N1 flu-associated laboratory-confirmed cases and deaths on its Web page.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/international/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to December 12, 2009 CDC - Dec 18
Flu activity continued to decline in the United States during the week of December 6-12, 2009, as reported in FluView. The number of states reporting widespread flu activity decreased from 14 to 11. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness, flu-associated hospitalizations, and flu-associated deaths all declined from the previous week, but remain elevated for this time of year. http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/#totalcases
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• This week will mark the first 100 million doses of 2009 H1N1 vaccine available for ordering. As of Friday, December 18, 2009, a total of 100,082,700 doses were available for ordering. Of those available doses, 78,496,200 doses were injectable (flu shots) and 21,586,500 were LAIV (nasal spray vaccine).
• As of Thursday, December 17, 2009, there were a total of 89,187,200 doses ordered.
• The vaccine for 2009 H1N1 flu will be the same for the entire 2009-2010 influenza season, which extends into the spring of 2010. The "2009" in the name only relates to the year the virus was first identified; it does not have to do with how long the vaccine will work or the year in which it should be administered. The 2009 H1N1 strain is not included in the 2009-2010 seasonal flu vaccine because it was identified after manufacturers had started making the seasonal flu vaccine.
• There is no way to accurately predict the course of influenza epidemics. Right now is a window of opportunity for more people to get vaccinated for 2009 H1N1flu, to provide protection against a possible third wave of disease as more people gain immunity to the 2009 H1N1 virus. Those who have been patiently waiting for their turn to receive the 2009 H1N1 vaccine are now encouraged to get vaccinated.
• CDC is aware that pregnant women and parents of young children may have questions about the safety of thimerosal in the multi-dose vials of H1N1 influenza vaccine. Thimerosal is a mercury-containing preservative that is added to vials of vaccine that contain more than one dose to prevent contamination and growth of potentially harmful bacteria. Such contamination can cause serious local reactions, illness or death. Thimerosal also increases the length of time a vaccine can remain entirely effective, or potent, before it reaches the patient—the time between manufacturing, shipping, and administering. Some parents may have questions about the use of thimerosal as a preservative. Research shows no link between thimerosal in vaccines and autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder.
• Currently, the following priority groups have been experiencing higher than usual rates of complications from 2009 H1N1 influenza: Healthy young people from birth through age 24, Pregnant women, Adults 25 to 64 who have underlying medical conditions. Some priority groups may not be able to find thimerosal-free H1N1 flu vaccine due to a recent recall of pre-filled, single-dose syringes by Sanofi Pasteur:
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/syringes_qa.htm
• As with seasonal influenza vaccination, some people getting H1N1 vaccine will have mild side effects such as local injection site pain, redness or swelling in the arm where the shot was given or a runny nose and headache after the nasal spray vaccine. For more information on the H1N1 influenza nasal spray vaccine, see:
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/
downloads/vis-laiv-h1n1.pdf.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians
Updated Interim Recommendations: Special Considerations for Clinicians Regarding 2009 H1N1 Influenza in Severely Immunosuppressed Patients - CDC - Dec 16
These interim recommendations refer to patients who are severely immunosuppressed as a result of receiving treatment for malignancies; or as a result of receiving treatment related to solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplants; or as a result of autoimmune conditions and treatment. In addition to this guidance, there are documents available for caregivers of adult and adolescent HIV-infected patients as well as for patients with rheumatological diseases.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
immunosuppression/index.htm
HHS urges continued H1N1 vaccination of health workers, everyone - HHS - Dec 16
Archived webcast for health care providers conducted by the Department of Heath and Human Services (HHS). Experts participating urged healthcare workers to take the vaccine themselves and to continue to push it out to patients.
http://www.flu.gov/live/index.html
2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Dose Spacing and Administration with Seasonal Influenza and Other Vaccines - HHS - Dec 18
A clinical tool to guide providers on the dosing and administration of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza vaccine.
http://pandemicflu.gov/individualfamily/
vaccination/dosespacing_admin.html
Interactive Timeline on H1N1: The Year in Review - HHS - Dec 17
HHS Senior Officials provide an update and give perspective on the H1N1 outbreak and discuss the next phase of the response to the pandemic.
http://www.flu.gov/about/h1n1yearreview.html
WHO is coordinating the distribution of donated pandemic flu vaccine to 95 countries - WHO -
Dec 17
WHO is working with UN and country partners to facilitate the distribution of the vaccine. Countries were identified based on their vulnerability to pandemic influenza and their readiness and ability to use the vaccine for priority populations.
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/vaccines/
h1n1_vaccination_deployment_update_20091217.pdf
Assistant Secretary Jones Appointed as Special Representative on Avian and Pandemic Influenza And Pandemic Influenza Coordinator - US Dept of State - Dec 17
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton announced the appointment of Dr. Kerri-Ann Jones, Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs as the U.S. Special Representative on Avian and Pandemic Influenza. In this capacity she will execute the Department’s mission under the National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza to lead the U.S. Government’s international engagement on avian and pandemic influenza. The Secretary has also appointed Dr. Jones as the Department of State’s Pandemic Influenza Coordinator. In this role, Dr. Jones will serve as the State Department’s focal point for coordination of all domestic and international pandemic preparedness and response activities.
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2009/dec/133807.htm
Study shows adjuvant boosts response to H1N1 vaccine - NEJM - Dec 17
Novartis's pandemic H1N1 flu vaccine generated stronger immune responses when it was combined with an adjuvant than when used alone, though both formulations yielded good results.
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/full/361/25/2424
Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Certain Lots of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Pediatric (0.25 mL, for 6-35 month olds) Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes Questions & Answers - CDC - Dec 15
This document features several questions and answers regarding the recent Sanofi Pasteur voluntary recall of the H1N1 Pediatric (0.25 mL, for 6-35 month olds) vaccine in pre-filled syringes. The recalled vaccine lots are safe. The reason for the recall is the vaccine potency.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/syringes_qa.htm
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): Resources for Pregnant Women - CDC - Dec 14
This is a quick overview of what pregnant women need to know about 2009 H1N1 flu. It is in downloadable format for use in doctor's offices or by individuals.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/pregnancy/
H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu): Resources for Obstetric Health Care Providers - CDC - Dec 14
This is a quick overview of what pregnant women need to know about 2009 H1N1 flu. It is in downloadable format for use in doctor's offices or by individuals.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/clinician_pregnant.htm
Emergency Preparedness & Response
BARDA Awards Contracts for Tests and Devices to Help the Nation Respond to a Radiological Emergency - HHS - Dec 18
The HHS Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) is awarding nine contracts for the advanced research and development of more effective tests and devices to determine the level of radiation a person has absorbed after a nuclear or radiological incident.
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/
12/20091218b.html
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders - Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, United States, 2006 - CDC - Dec 18
Between one in 80 and one in 240 children with an average of one in 110 have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These results reflect data collected in multiple communities throughout the U.S. from 2006 showing an estimated prevalence of ASDs to be about one percent of 8-year-olds in the U.S. This study uses data based on a retrospective review of health and education records from reporting communities, which includes eight percent of the U.S. population of eight-year- olds.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/ss5810a1.htm
Healthy Holidays - CDC - Dec 21
The holiday season is in full swing. This means a lot of holiday gatherings with large amounts of food. During the holiday season we tend to eat and drink a lot more calories. As you enjoy the holidays, remember to balance the calories you consume with the calories you burn.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HealthyHolidays/
Food and Drug Safety
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Dec 18
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Dec 07 - 14, 2009 Updates
Weekly FluView Map and Surveillance Report - CDC - Dec 11
Updated CDC FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 48 ending December 5, 2009. All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.
http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
2009 H1N1 Flu International Situation Update - CDC - Dec 11
This report provides an update to the international situation as of December 11, 2009. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to report updated 2009 H1N1 flu-associated laboratory-confirmed cases and deaths on its Web page.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/international/
Influenza and Pneumonia-Associated Hospitalizations and Deaths from August 30 to December 5, 2009 - CDC - Dec 11
As of December 8, 2009, there have been 33,490 laboratory-confirmed influenza-associated hospitalizations and 1,445 deaths in the U.S. from August 30 to December 5, 2009.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/updates/us/
2009 Influenza Key Points and Messages
• HHS has joined with the Ad Council to launch a new nationwide Public Service Announcements (PSA) campaign called Together We Can All Fight the Flu that encourages Americans to get vaccinated against the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The PSAs are now available for various audiences at www.flu.gov.
• As of Friday, December 11, 2009, a total of 86,844,500 doses were available for ordering. Of those available doses, 67,132,900 doses were injectable (flu shots) and 19,711,600 were LAIV (nasal spray vaccine).
• As of Thursday, December 10, 2009, there were a total of 78,017,600 doses ordered.
• Getting the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine is much safer than getting H1N1 influenza. You can prevent 2009 H1N1 influenza illness by getting the 2009 H1N1 vaccine. The benefits of getting the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine far outweigh the very small risk of serious complications from vaccination. Some people getting vaccinated will have mild side effects such as pain, redness or swelling in the arm where the shot was given or a runny nose and headache after the nasal spray vaccine.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Resources for Clinicians and Consumers
Resources for Clinicians
Revised: Updated Interim Recommendations for the Use of Antiviral Medications in the Treatment and Prevention of Influenza for the 2009-2010 Season - CDC - Dec 07
These recommendations focus on the use of antiviral medications for the treatment and chemoprophylaxis of influenza.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/recommendations.htm/
CDC Estimates of 2009 H1N1 Influenza Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths in the United States, April – November 14, 2009 - CDC - Dec 10
On November 12, 2009 CDC provided the first set of estimates on the numbers of 2009 H1N1 cases and related hospitalizations and deaths in the United States between April and October 17, 2009. Using the same methodology CDC has updated the estimates to include the time period from April through November 14, 2009.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/estimates_2009_h1n1.htm
Deaths Related to 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Among American Indian/Alaska Natives - 12 States, 2009 - CDC/MMWR - Dec 11
Native Americans and Alaska Natives are four times more likely to die of pandemic H1N1 than any other group, officials reported in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). The review of flu deaths in 12 states could not explain why the flu strikes those groups harder, but the authors said reasons might include higher rates of chronic illnesses and socioeconomic conditions.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm5848a1.htm
Questions and Answers on the 2009 H1N1 burden of mortality and American Indians and Alaska Natives - CDC - Dec 11
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/in_the_news/
deaths_american_indians.htm
2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu and African American Communities: Questions and Answers - CDC - Dec 11
These questions and answers summarize the current understanding of the impact of 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza virus on African Americans, describe some of the barriers to uptake of 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza vaccines, and outline potential strategies for improving health and increasing vaccine coverage in African American communities.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/african_americans_qa.htm
NIAID Trial of 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Enrolling HIV-Positive Adults - NIH - Dec 11
HIV-infected adults currently are being recruited to participate in a clinical trial of 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine.
http://www.nih.gov/news/health/dec2009/niaid-10.htm
2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine - CDC - Dec 11
This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about H1N1 vaccine. It also has updated information on vaccine project areas and distribution at the state and local level.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/in_the_news/
updated_cdc_estimates.htm
CDC Press Briefing Transcripts
Audio and transcripts for the December 10th CDC press briefings on H1N1 flu and vaccine distribution are now available. The briefings led by Dr. Thomas Frieden, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are archived and available at
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/press/
Resources for Consumers
Public Health Advisory: Availability of Tamiflu for Oral Suspension - FDA - Dec 11
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is informing healthcare professionals and consumers that additional quantities of the commercially prepared Tamiflu for Oral Suspension are being shipped to wholesalers and pharmacies. This new supply should address the current overall product shortage, although it will not immediately resolve shortages in all areas and availability may be variable for some time.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/
PublicHealthAdvisories/ucm193911.htm
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Staying Safe and Healthy in Winter Weather -CDC - Dec 7
Winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous, but if you plan ahead, you can stay safe and healthy. Prepare your home and cars. Keep emergency kits stocked. Be ready for power outages. Wear appropriate clothing. Check on children, the elderly and pets.
http://www.cdc.gov/Features/WinterWeather/
Food and Drug Safety
USDA issues conditional license for pandemic H1N1 vaccine for swine - USDA - Dec 11
USDA announced that it has issued a conditional license to Pfizer Animal Health, of Lincoln, Neb., for a pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine intended to vaccinate pigs against the 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus. This is the first pandemic H1N1 influenza vaccine license issued by USDA.
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/newsroom/
content/2009/12/h1n1_vaccine.shtml
Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts - FDA - Dec 11
For additional information on recent FDA recalls, market recalls & safety alerts please click on the following link: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm
Keeping Food Safe During An Emergency - USDA - Dec 09
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing recommendations to those affected by strong winds, heavy snow/rain, ice, blizzards or bitter cold weather conditions.
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/
NR_120909_01/index.asp
