TB or Not TB

That's not really the question. The question is if you're like PearlieMae are you going to do whatever it takes to not get tuberculosis this year or the next. If you're a regular reader of PearlieMaes you know whatever it takes is going to be all that stressful physically or otherwise. We aren't interested in making you sweat or work up a sweat. We do admit that sweating and things that make you move til you sweat are the way to better health.We just have never believed that its the only information you should be provided. We support a two pronged method of attack.

"In 2009 there were 11,545 new cases of tuberculosis reported in the United States - Although reported TB cases reached all-time lows in the United States, there are still disproportionately high rates of TB among foreign-born persons from high prevalence countries and among U.S.born racial/ethnic minorities, especially U.S.-born blacks. Among racial and ethnic minorities, unequal distribution of TB risk factors can increase the chance of developing the disease." - Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Current Features)

Our focus has been on protecting yourself from the H1N1 (swine flu) and not so much from the old standbys. The reason being this is season for that kind of infection is so obvious and easily prevented. Though our own actions wouldn't be a very good indication of that practice. Which is another reason why we haven't been showing the "swine table of death" that we usually show and will return to shortly. We're still at risk each and all of us even though we've had some technical difficulties keeping our stories.

"Tuberculosis - Although tuberculosis is contagious, it's not especially easy to catch. You're much more likely to get tuberculosis from someone you live with or work with than from a stranger. Most people with active TB who've had appropriate drug treatment for at least two weeks are no longer contagious." - Mayo Clinic (Causes)

The reason we haven't focused on TB is because it's not "easy to catch." It's the difficulty that doesn't need an injection for protection. Avoid the sick and don't get sick which is a good tactic for all contagious diseases. If you hear that a co-worker, family member or friend has TB and you've been especially close to that person then you might want to seek treatment. Do not self treat because whatever medications you receive has to be taken completely even when you feel better. 

Year 10 Week 4 - We Got You!

They say we're young and we don't know
We won't find out until we grow
Well I don't know if all that's true
'Cause you got me, and baby I got you
They say our love won't pay the rent
Before it's earned, our money's all been spent
I guess that's so, we don't have a pot
But at least I'm sure of all the things we got - Sonny Bono (BMI)

We Got You Babe - maybe you'll believe it if someone else said it. So we went to a higher authority an "ivy league" source.

“Many parents heeded the public health message to vaccinate their children against this virus, which hit young people unexpectedly hard,” said Professor Robert Blendon, Director of the Harvard Opinion Research Program and an expert in understanding the public response to emergencies that involve health threats. “But there remains a steady core of adults who, regardless of messaging and other efforts, has chosen not to get the H1N1 vaccine. This group’s set of attitudes has proven very difficult for public health officials to change.” (Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH))

Flu Deaths 2010 by Jurisdiction  This Week Last Week YTD 2010 YTD 2009 YTD 2008 YTD 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Charlotte, NC Richmond / Norfolk, VA 1 24 10 7 3 14 11 6 7 72 47 25 6 80 23 42 5 70 48 24 3 72 48 30 TOTALS WEEK 4  42  34  151  151  147  153

We're still trying to reach the uninfected. We must warn you that the shot won't guarantee that you'll never get sick. It's just an insurance policy against dying unnecessarily from a preventable infection for which there exists sufficient supplies that are now readily available. We still have family and friends whom are catching colds and feeling under the weather. We just aren't hearing of the protected dying from their colds. That's why we're so supportive of the shot!

If you need an official government authority instead of us, we understand. Sure, now you want to hear it from the government. Fine! We won't feel slighted at all. Here's what the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says on the matter. After all they are the source for our fact and figures since our local public health offices have been less than forthcoming with such information.

"...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. CDC recommends influenza vaccination as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. CDC is now encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against 2009 H1N1, including people 65 years and older. While less likely to get sick with 2009 H1N1 than younger people, people 65 and older are at high risk of serious complications if they do get sick. Vaccination of people with certain health conditions also is important because they also are at higher risk of serious flu-related complications. Health conditions that increase the risk of being hospitalized from 2009 H1N1 include lung disease like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, heart, or neurologic disease, and pregnancy." (CDC)  

 The egg heads, your government (both local and federal) and us are all urging you to get protected if you still haven't but if you have and you're tired of us going over the same things over and over again to you we say - nevermind!

Flu Week 3 2010

The supplies are available and though you might not be able to get the shot on demand and you may have to stand in line. The shots are everywhere - now is the time to use Google's flu shot finder. Just don't forget to call to find the time as well as the dates at the location nearest you. That's a little piece of information missing from the Google application. This information is received from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) based on the 122 Cities Report increased over the previous week and is higher than expected for this time of year. This increase in P&I is thought to result from an increase in reports of pneumonia-associated deaths in older people. These deaths are not necessarily related to flu illness. In addition, another five flu-related pediatric deaths  were reported this week: four of these deaths were associated with laboratory confirmed 2009 H1N1, and one death was associated with an influenza A virus for which the subtype was undetermined. Since April 2009, CDC has received reports of 312 laboratory-confirmed pediatric deaths: 262 due to 2009 H1N1, 47 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. (Flu Update) 

It's still considered to be 2009 by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in terms of the flu season. There is still the possibility of more unnecessary deaths that the shot can prevent. The choice is whether or not to get shot - that a decision we've made but we consider the choice live or die. However that's just us we're kind of fond of this living and breathing thing we've got going on.

2010 FLU DEATHS This Last 2010 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Charlotte, NC Richmond / Norfolk, VA 3 14 11 6 1 26 17 4 6 48 37 18 1 11 6 19 U 21 14 6 1 15 14 7 TOTALS (Week 3) 34 48 109 37 41 37

• No states reported widespread influenza activity. Five states reported regional influenza activity. They are: Alabama, Georgia, New Jersey, South Caroline and Virginia.
• Almost all of the influenza viruses identified so far continue to be 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses. These viruses remain similar to the virus chosen for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, and remain susceptible to the antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir with rare exception.

False charges are easy to make but difficult to refute unless you go directly to the source of the charges and ask specifically what was the error made. The World Health Organization (WH0) has spoken to the Council of Europe (CE) and denied the charges though it's hard to disprove an unfounded accusation. (VIEW) The results are World Health Organization needs to be more transparent in its operation.

2010 - The Flu Is Still With Us - Week 2

May it not be with you. For us the choice was simple even though we followed the commercial to our area CVS for an H1N1 shot to discover you need to make an appointment prior to receiving a $15 inoculation. The twenty-four (24) hour pharmacy was quite willing to allow us to make an appointment for the following week to pay to receive a shot. Or we could as only a few others receive a free shot at a local church after service or for a few hours later.

Flu Deaths Week 2 2010 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Richmond / Norfolk, VA Charlotte, NC 3 34 12 26 3 29 6 U 1 20 5 7 1 19 9 7 TOTALS 75 38 33 36

Now we are all protected staff members. It's still out there - like the truth. The number of dying are still growing although there is protection and for many it's free. To choose between waiting and paying and waiting and receiving a free injection was no choice for us.

The number of deaths from accidents, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and strokes are greater we'll admit. Other than accidents all seem within our control and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests "washing your hands" often as well as a form of flu prevention for the H1N1 and seasonal flu as well as getting the shot. We do highly encourage everyone to get this form of protection being offered in our communities whether for pay or free. It really isn't over regardless of what the local and international critics might say. But it is really up to you!

What Does Not Destroy

"Out of life's school of war: What does not destroy me, makes me stronger." - Friedrich Nietzsche [1895] MAXIMS AND ARROWS, 8 of 44, Twilight of the Idols, Translated from the original German

CAUSES OF DEATH By Jurisdiction 1ST 2ND 3RD 4TH 5TH District of Columbia North Carolina Maryland Virginia United States of America North Carolina Virginia

We take the quote to mean to learn from your losses, disasters or setbacks. What makes us stronger is to learn from the problems in fighting the H1N1 and the problems in the distribution of limited supplies to a wide majority.

Haiti, the island and its people, has sufferred and unreasonable amount of natural and manmade disasters yet in their struggle to survive comes great stories of love, faith and courage. Their survival can only, we hope, make them stronger. Almost universal in voice is the belief and hope for such strength for Haiti's recovery.

May we find such strength in the things that destroy us. The top destroyers us are: cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and accidents. It's just the order that varies and not that much from line to line. Surprising The District of Columbia and North Carolina share the same first two (2) causes: cancer and heart disease while Maryland, Virginia and the nation as a whole share the same first three (3) causes: heart disease, cancer and high blood pressure (cerebrovascular diseases). North Carolina share the last three (3) cause with MD, VA and the US: high blood pressure (cerebrovascular diseases). The District of Columbia shares it's third (3) cause with North Carolina and Virginia's fourth (4) cause: accidents. The fourth (4) for the District: high blood pressure (cerebrovascular diseases) and Maryland which reflects the national pattern: chronic lower respiratory diseases.

Data Source:
Table 29. Number of deaths, death rates, and age-adjusted death rates for major causes of death for the United States, and each state, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and Northern Marianas, 2006 (CDC)

Flu Like Symptoms

When your only editor is ill and you've got a small office it doesn't matter what everyone else does nothing gets published. Nothing gets up and nothing gets out. So boo on the small office and small businesses. There should be medium businesses or nothing at all. Small businesses are too personality driven. So welcome our new senior editor who was interviewed and hired before our illnesses but didn't have any access necessary to start work.

Our "flu like symptoms" didn't include a fever and only included coughing and migraine like headaches that felt like our heads would explode. To remind you here's what the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said were the symptoms for H1N1. (Warning Signs) Though we do have to admit that their exact words were: "You may have the flu if you have some or all of these symptoms." While their symptoms numbered nine (9) ours personally only numbered four (4). The CDC list concluded with this asterix: "It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever."

Yeah, well we missed that and should be excused because we had flu like symptoms!

We made fun of Dr. Sanjay Gupta when he complained of his H1N1 symptoms. Ours we're the same. We weren't nauseated and our entire body didn't hurt nor the freezing cold. We sweat but without the fever. We couldn't hold ourselves up and other than taking ourselves to the nearby bathroom it was difficult to stand. There was some dizziness. That was just when the trouble began.

This editor got married and joined his spouse in holy matrimony and medical insurance coverage without his prior medical records and only his current medications. Without a medical history this editor made the mistake that can result in disastrous medical mistakes not included in the website Wrong Diagnosis.

Complications due to adverse interaction resulted in a one (1) day hospitalization. Other complications included a rejection of his doctor's specific prescription by the insurance company (which included a letter received one week later explaining their reasons), in-house staffing problems within the doctor's office (which was duplicated from prior physicians offices and may indeed be a common problem) and timing (getting sick as the doctor goes on vacation). This just wasn't our month!

On our first real day of health (there's still some coughing on all our parts but other than that) some of us attended church services as a group to discover that the 19th Street Baptist Church(located on 16th St in a building that was a former synagogue. Considered the "First Colored Church of Washington" some how it all makes sense in a very strange and bizarre way) had a guest speaker - former Governor now HHS Secretary, Kathleen Sebelius. This turned out to be the start of: National Influenza Vaccination Week.

“This is a challenging flu season for millions of Americans and their families, and it’s not over yet,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. “The H1N1 vaccine is safe, effective and the best way to prevent the flu. We urge all Americans to protect themselves and their families by getting the H1N1 flu vaccine.”

From April 2009 until mid-November 2009, H1N1 flu infected approximately 47 million Americans and contributed to more than 200,000 hospitalizations and nearly 10,000 deaths. Flu season is unpredictable and typically lasts until May.

“The window of opportunity to get the H1N1 vaccine is still open,” said Thomas R. Frieden, M.D., M.P.H., director of CDC. “We do not know how many more cases of flu there will be in the coming weeks and months, but we do know that the H1N1 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself.”

Launched in 2006 as an annual initiative, National Influenza Vaccination Week brings awareness of flu’s risks and complications—and encourages vaccination—by designating each day of the week for an at-risk group or individuals who are in close contact with them. So far, over 130 events are planned around the country, and more are being added.

"Sebelius got a mixed reaction when she kicked off vaccination week Sunday at a prominent Washington church" MSNBC. We didn't think so but unlike MSNBC we thought her response was warm. However according to the individual volunteers less than 200 shots were given out on the rainy Sunday after Haiti afternoon. Though the church is largely African-American the few stragglers at evenings end were not. We were in that number. So we must concede that indeed the reaction was mixed if not warm.

We were at the right place and the right time doing the right thing. Just as Secretary Sebelius dropped this bombshell about the H1N1 that the rate of infection was "five (5) times higher than in the regular flu season." This would indicate that failure to inoculate the vast majority of resident can create a financial and medical disaster that affects us. Better crowded shot lines than crowded emergency rooms and doctor's office. All can serve to make treatment, that even in the less trying times can result in less than quality care - insurance or no insurance.

Sick Puss

We're really editing ourselves because we're pet owners though some of us are allergic to pets. So we're torn between caring and not giving a hoot! Given the choice between concern for the living humans and pets were not People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) zealots. We put people first. We out "Peta" PETA in our concern that pet owners who are H1N1 sick might tend to pity themselves by snuggling up with their furry friends instead of keeping them away from their "infected-ness." Sick is sick so stay away from all the healthy creatures and suffer through it. PETA, however, has no published position on this issue.

Kennels cautious after pets get flu - Two house cats in Colorado are recovering after both tested positive for the H1N1 virus. A veterinary lab at Colorado State University confirmed the separate cases. One of the cats became ill in early October and the other got sick in early November. Several kennels are also requiring dogs to get flu shots before being boarded. - 9News

Of course if you've ever listen to us or had been listening to us you'll run to the hospital get treated and get those numbers back up. Because in this environment its better to be safe than sorry. Especially if you H1N1 sick. We won't be counting the number of pet deaths but we will be watching their numbers. Yes, even pet deaths count! Maybe not to you, maybe not to the local health departments - yes we're talking about you DC! But our pets matter to us and we'd be very hurt if we lost them for any reason. While the picture maybe humorous in this we're very serious.

Wait For It!

We keep saying "It's Not Over!" We know no one is listening but still we shout in the wilderness because someday soon someone will. One of the down sides to the lack of deaths numbers and news reports of the "decline" is that people aren't getting in line to get the shot. It also could be that those in the "high risk" category have begun to reach their tipping point. We all still can't get the shot though some of us have been inoculated.

Though we can only speak to the national coverage and not the local. We'll make every effort to remedy this by this weekend to give you both actual on the spot coverage with pictures. According to Chicago Tribute, Boston.com, Cybercast News, Nevada Appeal:

Flu vaccine clinic turnout lower than expected - Officials were ready for 5,000 - Ann Scales, spokeswoman for the Boston Public Health Commission, said the turnout was lower than expected because fewer reported cases of flulike illnesses have been reported recently and because many city residents are already vaccinated. “That has suppressed interest in the vaccine,’’ she said. Panic about the swine flu is waning as many people with symptoms are opting to stay home and ride out the illness rather than going to their doctor, she said.

We still love former Governor and now Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, but we think she's "going rogue!" When she came to DC on the 19th of November to tout the increase in supplies we didn't have the vaccine. The conference doesn't appear anywhere on the website nor in our search through the normal media sources. Since that appearance Sebelius has said heads will roll! We believe her and it's not just because she scares us.

“Right now, as of today, we have 50 million doses not available and more is coming each and every day,” Sebelius told the crowd of about 100 people that gathered at the center to hear her and Spanish-speaking representatives from the CDC. “And so, if you haven’t had the opportunity to have a vaccination yet, more will be available.”

Almost ten (10) days later in the Maryland suburbs supplies were still lacking.

US struggles to keep up with demand vaccine - Just outside the capital, Washington DC, Mary Anderson, at the health department of Montgomery County, Maryland, said her region had only received half of vaccine order they placed. One the countries hardest hit by the swine flu outbreak, the US was struggling to keep up with demand, even as public concerns over the safety of the vaccine kept some people away from the queues for the jab. - Monsters and Critics News

The former Kansas governor added this at the earlier gathering:

“The vaccine will be available, and it will be free, and it will be available to everyone,” Sebelius said. “I’m here to remind you that the good news is we do have a vaccine. It does work against this flu, and it is safe."

We emphasize this statement because while the now Health and Human Services Secretary made it plain the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that they have the 2009-2010 seasonal flu vaccine ready.

FDA Approves Agriflu Seasonal Influenza Vaccine - Another option to prevent illnesses caused by subtypes A and B influenza virus - Novartis is required to conduct further studies to verify that the vaccine will decrease seasonal influenza disease after vaccination. The company also manufactures another licensed seasonal influenza vaccine, Fluvirin, for use in the United States. Fluvirinis approved for people ages 4 years and older. Agriflu is not intended to protect against the 2009 H1N1 influenza.

That's right the FDA says they don't know if it will work but they do know it won't work against the H1N1 virus - you know the one that's been killing us. She's really going rogue and she's not named Sarah! She's the other former female governor whose name starts with an "S!"

The problem with people not getting the H1N1 vaccine is being highlighted now that the supplies are becoming available but again primarily to the "most vulnerable" is fear and ignorance.

H1N1: Why I'm Willing To Get Vaccinated - Tyrone Jones - A 13-year-old child is five times more likely to contract the H1N1 than an adult because the virus feeds off less developed immune systems. H1N1 is a very contagious disease and nobody is naturally immune to it. Knowing this is enough to get me to run out for a vaccination. - NCMONLINE

Just last week we heard this:

Lessons learned from the H1N1 flu vaccine shortage - Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced Tuesday that a major review and proposed overhaul of the government's efforts to develop new protections against pandemics, bioterrorism and other health threats has been initiated.

The shortage is currently a non-issue, as about 69 million doses are now available, however, the virus is still spreading widely and a third wave could occur later this winter, said CDC Director Thomas R. Frieden. CDC reports in the Alabama region (Region 4), we are still experiencing elevated levels of activity, and our region has reported 37 pediatric deaths. - Baltimore Examiner

The Washington Post noted that we may have to wait a year to determine how many heads rolled:

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said Tuesday that she ordered the evaluation in part because the H1N1 vaccine shortage had highlighted the nation's dependence on antiquated technology. "We'll look for the fastest ways to move to new technologies that will let us quickly produce countermeasures that are more dependable and more robust," she told the American Medical Association's Third National Congress on Health System Readiness, which is being held in Washington. "Not just for flu and not just for infectious diseases, but for all the public health threats we face today." The review will be led by Nicole Lurie, assistant secretary for preparedness and response, and will be complete by "early next year," Sebelius said. - Washington Post

The rogue secretary's remarks can be found at Health and Human Services (HHS along with her testimonies and statement on the issues of the day. She's getting things done. It's up to us to queue up and get the shots when they're available. Unfortunately not enough of us are doing that. We can't wait until the lines open up for the rest of us so we can get the protection as well. Unfortunately everyone doesn't feel that way and their ignorance is resulting in their deaths.

Swine flu deaths higher among minorities, state says - Blacks and Hispanics in Illinois have died from swine flu at double the rate it has killed whites in the state, and swine flu has hospitalized the two minority populations at more than triple the rate for whites. Less access to health care, more chronic health problems and lower vaccination rates among the two minority groups probably play a role, Illinois officials said Friday at a meeting in Chicago where minorities were encouraged to be inoculated. - Chicago Tribune

Now that we know - though it's not our job - it's our mission like the rogue former Governor now HHS Secretary to do something. It's a matter of life and death.

Flu Week 47 Only One DC Death Again

From our point of view the numbers are higher for the District of Columbia than in the last two years and we knew the flu was coming. The numbers are lower than last year for Maryland and we knew it was coming. The numbers are higher in Virginia and we knew the pandemic was upon us. The numbers are lower in North Carolina and they are doing a better job with less.

"Secondary bacterial pneumonia was a frequent cause of illness and death during each of the influenza pandemics of the 20th century. Pneumococcal infections have also been identified as a complication in some severe and fatal cases of the current H1N1 influenza pandemic."

Maybe its because North Carolinians aren't as congested as we are. The Department of Health is either underreporting, as we suspect DC is doing or something else is going on. We think we should be doing better. Maybe it'll happen next year but the numbers are people. It is us! For us it's Pearlie Mae's minister who had "underlying conditions" but the numbers that aren't us affect us and rob us of people and personnel many of which love, protect and keep us safe. Governor Bev Perdue (WATCH) got her seasonal flu vaccine and we're still waiting for our H1N1 vaccine. That might explain why North Carolina's deaths are behind the last previous years.

JURISDICTIONS This Last 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Charlotte, NC Richmond / Norfolk, VA 1 10 2 6 1 11 10 5 101 696 443 238 81 764 453 199 74 595 452 202 DEATH TOTALS WK 47 19 27 1478 1497 1323

We also have to keep saying - it's going to get worse because we're still not in the midst of the storm. It's going to get worst. Our hope and prayer is that we'll all get the inoculations we need in time so keep the deaths down and the suffering to a minimum this year and into the next. We're not the only ones saying this Maryland's Governor O'Malley hypes the good while ignoring the bad but still offers a caveat that we still need to vigilant.

"This week, as vaccination shipments into the State continue to increase, we are seeing potentially positive signs in overall flu activity in Maryland," said Governor O'Malley. "All flu indicators, including hospitalizations, positive H1N1 tests, ICU admissions, and emergency room visits are on a downward trend. And that's a good thing. But this is still a public health threat we all should be taking very seriously."

Another day and we aren't in that number. We count that a very good day indeed!

It's Not Over...

Until the dying stops. We're becoming as insensitive as the news reporting the dying as one big number instead of noting the passing of each individual. We write it but don't highlight it. How many are lost each week as well as the totals year to date this year and past? We noticed our omission and debated how this is change recognizes each individual loss. In the interim we offer you this subtle change to make the season bright.

"[W]e don't know what the future will bring. We do know that we have more vaccine now. It is a real window of opportunity to get vaccinated in the coming weeks and months. And vaccination remains our best protection against the flu and for people who are sick. It's important still to get prompt treatment. When you're sick with flu-like symptoms, it may or not be flu, but if you're sick, see a doctor. Or if you have an underlying health condition like diabetes, it's particularly important to see your doctor." - Dr. Thomas Frieden, Director for Centers for Disease Control Prevention

Total Doses as of 11/24/09* Allocated Shipped Incr. Population % Pop. District of Columbia Maryland North Carolina Virginia    125,200 1,732,600 1,049,500 1,446,200    121,000 1,734,400 1,126,000 1,557,900 103% 100% 93% 93%    591,833 9,222,414 5,633,597 7,769,089 20% 19% 20% 20% TOTALS 4,353,500 4,539,300 96% 23,216,933 20%

With twenty (20%) percent of the most vulnerable population covered with the vaccine. Any slowing of the death or infection rates could be contributing to any decreases which would point to either the effectiveness of the inoculations process and the need for the vaccine rather than an ending of the H1N1 flu season.

"In the United States, on average 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications, and; about 36,000 people die from seasonal flu-related causes. Some people, such as older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications."

The chart shows a decrease or downward turn of the number of deaths which would signal good news as though the worst was over if you're desperately searching for good news. We hate to be harbingers of doom but we like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) must point out that this is the month when supplies should make it's way to general population - those of us not at high risk but at risk nonetheless. Again it's how you look at it and where you look. The number of visits are down but deaths are not.

"Timing is uncertain. In past years, seasonal flu activity typically did not reach its peak in the U.S. until January or February, but flu activity has occurred as late as May. However, the 2009 H1N1 virus caused illness, hospitalizations, and deaths in the U.S. during the summer months when influenza is very uncommon. So it is not known when flu activity will increase, when it will be most intense (peak), what viruses will circulate, or how long the season might last."

The CDC's official advice isn't to go and receive help from the hospital but to avoid the hospital and stay home:

If you get sick with flu-like symptoms this flu season, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people except to get medical care.

If the CDC has been successful in getting the word out that same success must be reflected in the decrease in the number of individuals seeking hospitalization but not deaths. Even media professionals aren't immune to conflicting and bad advice. Business Week's reporter sent this story in: My 10-Day Ordeal With the Swine Flu - Reporter recounts her bout with H1N1, made all the worse by chronic asthma - Serena Gordon

"I shouldn't have waited over the weekend to get medical help, and I was lucky I hadn't ended up in the hospital on a respirator due to the delay. What still strikes me is how ill-prepared I was for the severity of this illness. Despite everything I've read, and even though I talk to doctors and other health experts all the time, H1N1 blindsided me."

Yet the news wants you to relax and not stress out. We don't want you stressed just informed. It ain't over until we're vaccinated and we're into 2010. Hope is that the regular flu returns and the regular season returns where there are a few deaths that occurs in our normal season for 2011. Of course the number of deaths will still be about 30,000 but maybe we'll learn something and be better prepared for the next round. Then we can relax until 2012. Of course if the Mayans are right- that's when it's really over!

Still Not Number 1

We're not a contender nor are we an also ran. We got invited to the big show and just being invited is enough. To paraphrase Rick Blaine "we'll always have Washington." We'll have our higher salaries, our lower Cholesterol rate, smaller motor vehicle deaths, not everything but we're got a lot.

MD Flu Deaths - In the midst of it all. We don't mean to be sticklers for details but we had to comment on this Baltimore Sun story:

"State public health officials said Thursday that six more people have died in Maryland in the past four weeks of swine flu, bringing the number of deaths statewide since the pandemic began to 19. All six were adults with underlying health conditions. Three were from the Baltimore area, two were from Western Maryland and one was from Southern Maryland. No further details were provided by the state Department of Health and Mental Hygiene."

"Swine flu disproportionately affects those under age 65, unlike seasonal flu, which normally takes a toll on older people. So far, 36,000 children have been hospitalized and 540 have died nationwide." (WATCH)

As you can tell from the story below the numbers in Baltimore and Maryland alone exceed the nationally given number. The numbers that are reported to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) differ substantially from the numbers posted of the Department of Health websites. Even the numbers reported to the CDC aren't accurate and only give a hint to the directly observable numbers of the dead and dying.

Maryland's number of deaths from heart disease and cancer far and away dwarfs the current numbers of deaths from the flu and now the focus comes from the American Public Health Association that a contributing factor to both is increasing in this area in an alarming rate.

"No matter where you live in America, obesity threatens to unleash a wave of chronic disease in the next few years that will swamp the health-care system and add an economically crippling $344 billion a year to total health spending by 2018. This is the message of the 20th annual survey of the health of all 50 states, undertaken by the nonprofit group America's Health Rankings.

In their America's Health Ranking report Maryland is 21st this year; it was 22nd in 2008. Virginia is 21st this year, unchanged from 2008. As is North Carolina which again is 37th this year.

The District of Columbia (DC) is not included in the ranking of states, as it is a unique governmental entity and is considerably more urban than the states.

However when we compared the stats where they could be compared DC fared no better than its counterparts. Indeed in most respects the District of Columbia fared far worse and in too many cases substantially worse.

Oh, there is a Washington in the top eleven (11) it's just not the District of Columbia. We're not in top twenty (20) but we're also not in the bottom twenty (20) if that's any consolation to you. In some areas DC has exceeded the highest national average and in other cases finished in the top ten (10) or top twenty (20). What areas are those you ask?

They are: In the number of "Primary Care Physicians," "Income Disparity," "Heart Attacks," "Cholesterol Checks," less smokers "Prevalence of Smoking," Percentage of children with "Immunization Coverage," "Lack of Health Insurance," "Median Household Income," "Physical Activity," and from this activity keeps us in great shape because we use fewer "Poor Physical Health Days," we also excel in not having a "Prevalence of Obesity," which is reflected in our far less use of "Poor Mental Health Days," all this exercise and attendance to our health both physical and mental is reflected in "Preventable Hospitalizations," and finally if you asks us how we're doing we'll say "we're A-OK" which is reflected in our "Health Status" stats.

Unfortunately as good as these great numbers are we sucked at so much else that our truly remarkable number don't add up to enough to equal the care you'd receive at any of the top ten (10) recipients. We'll just have to be satisfied with high salaries - if we had high salaries or we could move to (in order of ranking): Vermont, Utah, Massachusetts, Hawaii, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Connecticut, Colorado, Maine, Rhode Island, Washington state for the kind of health we can imagine in our dreams. The rankings is published jointly by United Health Foundation, the American Public Health Association and Partnership for Prevention.

Flu Week 45 No Deaths in Norfolk

We look for hope in the midst of despair. Things have subsided more than they have declined. When news outlets proclaim the end is near they appear more desperate than helpful. We want good news and we'll focus on the good news when others focus only on the bad. There is a great deal to offer is hope. We didn't get sick and die and neither did you if you're reading this. Others weren't so lucky. While the District of Columbia Department of Health (DOH) added to its number of infections and their roll out of immunizations has not been a disaster. DC reported to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) two (2) deaths after two weeks of no numbers reported. This when the numbers of deaths are remaining steady all over. Norfolk reported no deaths for this week. The CDC reported nine (9) pediatric deaths in our region three (3) the total death numbers for just our trio-jurisdictional area was reported as twenty-eight (28) for this week ending November 14, 2009. If you include North Carolina (region four (4)) that adds an additional eleven (11) deaths which is still a decline over the two (2) previous years for the state.

Flu Deaths Week 45 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Richmond / Norfolk, VA Charlotte, NC 99 675 227 431 78 724 192 436 68 578 199 435 TOTALS 1432 1430 1280

We applaud Norfolk's success if that what it is we hate their Department of Public Health website which appears to be produced for the director and some really boring nerdy kids with their very gross "sneeze in your sleeve" video presentation. Has no one ever heard of Kleenex? Or at the very least of tissues, even toilet paper will do in a pinch. Keep a roll in your pocket and pull as you need!

There have been so many stories to cover and so much data to analyze from so many studies that all seem to connect. We've made the connections after putting all the data together that specifically relates to our jurisdictions. Forgive our absence but we've never stop working and there is so much to report.

Another Week 44 - No DC Flu Deaths

There is some disagreement between the success of the District of Columbia's Department of Health's (DOH) efforts to inoculate the most vulnerable. We worked inside and outside with the department. On the outside the lining and waiting was not acceptable but on the inside the effort was smooth and efficient. The success is reflected in numbers. Again for the second week no reported deaths from the flu or reported to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness (ILI) nationally decreased this week over last week. This is the second week of national decreases in ILI after four consecutive weeks of sharp increases. While ILI declined overall nationally, visits to doctors for influenza-like illness remain higher than what is seen during the peak of many regular flu seasons.

JURISDICTIONS 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Richmond / Norfolk, VA 97 659 222 74 714 189 68 564 195 DEATH TOTALS WK 44 978 977 827

Total influenza hospitalization rates for laboratory-confirmed flu continue to climb and remain higher than expected for this time of year. Hospitalization rates continue to be highest in younger populations with the highest hospitalization rate reported in children 0-4 years old.

Almost all of the influenza viruses identified so far continue to be 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses. These viruses remain similar to the virus chosen for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, and remain susceptible to the antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir with rare exception.

We noticed that DC's good fortune isn't just restricted to the District - Norfolk also had only one loss this week as well. While decreases are to be applauded unless we believe that what was done before is or was good enough and that life isn't precious we do need to celebrate while doing all we can to do substantially better. We can always do better. We must!

The Mexican Misconnection

The one headline, Older People at Greater Risk of Swine Flu Death, lead us to the Journal of Cancer study we could not find but to many other studies in the journal from the US, Mexico and Switzerland. The studies relating cancer to issues of color, discrimination and poverty.

Cases in Mexico show young more likely to get sick, but elderly more likely to die. "The researchers found that the risk of infection fell by 35 percent in those who received vaccinations for seasonal flu. Chronic disease boosted the risk of death by six times. Those who didn't go to the hospital within four days after developing symptoms boosted their risk of death by 20 percent for each extra day they delayed a hospital visit."

H1N1 influenza in Mexico. The Lancet headline has less to do with the pandemic in the United States except that Mexico seems to be the source of the H1N1 virus. While the headline as being mentioned seems to suggest that what is true in Mexico is true in the US as well. While the numbers are down among the elderly with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Canadian governments research indicates that while this does not appear to be our current situation.
Newsweek offers a historical as well as an informational report on the flu and its history particularly with the Mexican H1N1 study as its considered our source for the flu. We refer you to the article and the graphic historical timeline on flu.

There is a joke among flu researchers: "If you've seen one flu season, you've seen…one flu season." The translation, for those not up on epidemiological humor: the joke is wry commentary on the unpredictable nature of the flu virus. Every year it looks different, and every strain follows its own pattern. This is not just a quirk that frustrates scientists—it's the reason new strains like H1N1 are impossible to anticipate and fully prepare for.

"I know less about influenza today than I did 10 years ago," quips Dr. Michael Osterholm, director of the Minnesota Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance and a former adviser to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

What happens there, hopefully stays there. Bring the problem here but not the results - in this case the H1N1 flu doesn't have to mean that our results will be the same as Mexico's results. While our federal government deals with the issues of "Universal Health Care" what the future might hold for a healthier planet is an international health care solution. While the United States works to bring its system and self back to it's position of superiority in Health and everything these days after Veterans Day - we can only hope and strive for better results.

Facts To Know - Asked & Answered

We had questions and they had answers at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a pretty well hidden Frequent Questions (FQs) database that allows you to search for questions previously asked. Normally we email the CDC when we want to know the answer but today we braved the toll-free number and asked a real human being a question. Accessing a real live person was about as well hidden as the website answers.

Here are our nine (9) favorite questions and answers. There are actually eleven (11) questions but only ten (10) get answered but we're not certain about the tenth question. All provided by and found directly from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

1. What does the H1N1 vaccine cost?
    The federal government has purchased the H1N1 vaccine and is providing it to the states free of charge. This is different in many places from the seasonal flu vaccine. Public vaccination clinics (sponsored by local health departments at schools or other places) will offer vaccine at no charge. Some private providers may charge a small fee to administer the vaccine, but cost should not be a barrier to getting immunized. Many, many people and businesses have stepped up to the public health challenge we all face and are working together for the overall public good to make this vaccine free – or at least affordable – for all those who want it. 


2. Will people age 65 years and older be able to get the 2009 H1N1 vaccine this season?
   Yes, the U.S. government has purchased 250 million doses of 2009 H1N1 vaccine, so anyone who wants to get the vaccine will have the opportunity to do so. While people 65 and older are not included in the groups recommended to get the earliest doses of vaccine, they can get the 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine as soon as the high risk groups have had the opportunity to be vaccinated.
   Some communities and providers will offer the 2009 H1N1 vaccine to people 65 and over sooner than others, depending on how quickly they meet the needs of the initial prioritized populations. While the early doses of 2009 H1N1 vaccine are being given to those in high risk groups, CDC's priority for people 65 and older is to have them get their seasonal flu vaccine first, and to seek medical advice quickly if they develop flu-like symptoms this season. This will determine whether they need medical evaluation and possible treatment with antiviral medications.


3. Are natural remedies (also referred to as “complementary” or “alternative” medicine) recommended to prevent the 2009 H1N1 flu virus?
   The first and most important step to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. Vaccination stimulates an immune response using a killed or weakened virus that uses the body’s own defense mechanisms to prevent infection. CDC's current recommendations to protect against 2009 H1N1 virus do not include natural remedies as a sole prevention method. If you want to use a natural remedy to reduce symptoms, CDC recommends that you talk to your healthcare provider about options.
   
   Alternative medicine should not be used as a replacement for proven conventional care, or to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides information at http://health.nih.gov/topic/AlternativeMedicine on specific alternative options, including scientific information, potential side effects, and cautions for each.
   
   The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns consumers to be cautious about products that claim to prevent, treat, or cure 2009 H1N1 influenza, specifically products like pills, air filtration devices, and cleaning agents can kill or eliminate the virus.
   
   The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers to use extreme care when purchasing any products over the Internet that claim to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure the H1N1 influenza virus. The warning comes after the FDA recently purchased and analyzed several products represented online as Tamiflu (oseltamivir), which may pose risks to patients. For more information, see the news release. Consumers can also visit FDA's Web site for tips about how to protect themselves when buying medicines online.


4. How long (one season or more) will immunity be effective from the H1N1 vaccine? Will this be an annual vaccine like the seasonal flu?
   Influenza (flu) viruses change from year to year. You are unlikely to get infected with the same exact strain of influenza (flu) more than once. Most people with flu-like illness since spring 2009 don't know whether they were infected with 2009 H1N1 or another flu virus strain. If you think you had 2009 H1N1 infection, ask your doctor if you should be vaccinated. The only sure way to diagnose 2009 H1N1 infection is with real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
   
   Even if you had a confirmed case of 2009 H1N1 flu, you can still get infected with other flu strains. You should make sure you get the seasonal flu vaccine. If you had a flu-like illness since spring 2009 that wasn't diagnosed as 2009 H1N1 flu by RT-PCR, get the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines.
   
   Also, a vaccine made against flu viruses circulating last year may not protect against the newer viruses. That is why the influenza vaccine is updated every year to include current viruses.


5. What is the incubation period of the H1N1 (swine) flu? How long will it take to get the flu after being exposed?
   The estimated incubation period is unknown and could range from 1 to 7 days, and more likely 1 to 4 days.
   
   
   Persons with novel H1N1 flu virus infection should be considered potentially contagious (able to spread disease) for up to 7 days after illness onset. Persons who continue to be ill longer than 7 days should be considered potentially contagious until symptoms have resolved. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer periods. People with influenza-like illness should stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone (without the use of fever-reducing medicine). A fever is defined as having a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 37.8 degrees Celsius or greater.
   
   It's important to remember that we are still in flu and allergy season and it's not uncommon to have cold or flu-like symptoms. If you are sick, stay home from work or school to monitor your health. If you do have symptoms where you think you need urgent care, contact your doctor right away.


6. Can I get 2009 H1N1 more than once?
   Getting infected with any flu virus, including 2009 H1N1, should cause your body to develop immune resistance to that virus so it's not likely that a person would be infected with the identical influenza virus more than once. (However, people with weakened immune systems might not develop full immunity after infection and might be more likely to get infected with the same influenza virus more than once.) However, it's also possible that a person could have a positive test result for flu infection more than once in an influenza season. This can occur for two reasons:
   A person may be infected with different influenza viruses (for example, the first time with 2009 H1N1 and the second time with a regular seasonal flu virus. Most rapid tests cannot distinguish which influenza virus is responsible for the illness. and,
   Influenza tests can occasionally give false positive and false negative results so it's possible that one of the test results were incorrect. This is more likely to happen when the diagnosis is made with the rapid flu tests.
   
   More information about flu diagnosis is available at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/diagnosis/.


7. What are the initial symptoms of swine flu? How do we get it cured?
   The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal flu infection.
   
   (P)ersons with novel H1N1 flu virus infection should be considered potentially contagious (able to spread disease) for up to 7 days after illness onset. Persons who continue to be ill longer than 7 days should be considered potentially contagious until symptoms have resolved. Children, especially younger children, might be contagious for longer periods.


8. Do you have special recommendations for air conditioned buildings?
   The CDC indicates that the odds of transmission of the 2009-H1N1 influenza over significant distances through heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is extremely remote and special cleaning of air ducts is not required.


9. Does the flu vaccine work right away? How long before the vaccine takes effect after it is given?
   It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. In the meantime, you are still at risk for getting the flu. That's why it's better to get vaccinated early in the fall, before the flu season really gets under way.

The tenth answer came by telephone from the toll-free flu line at the CDC. We've included the code prompts to get you to where you can get to a living being if you found questions not answered at the site or above.

Dial: 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636). Where you'll hear:
"Thanks for calling the CDC H1N1 Info line"
"For English Press 1" and then you will be prompted to choose:
"All Others Press 3" (Doctors 1 / News Media 2) after which you'll be given:
"For H1N1 Press 8" and then another prompt will say:
"For more H1N1 info Press 1" after which you will be told:
"Please hold for a "brief" survey afterwards".

We spoke to a "BJ" "not a physician and can not answer any questions concerning your medical condition." We didn't hold after asking the question if we could purchase the H1N1 vaccine from a for profit source where we could pay to bypass the wait. BJ informed us that was not possible. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was the only source in the United States for the vaccine.

When Pigs Die!

Just as some jurisdictions are starting to begin the claim that the swine flu is starting to decline in severity - a claim which we vehemently are in opposition. What is true is that the deaths aren't substantially greater but that's in terms of overall deaths. What we maintain is that the deaths are preventable and unnecessary. What we maintain is that we don't want to be in those numbers. Just when, we will admit is in other parts of the country, they are starting to claim the worst is over we have the following from the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting: "Clinical signs such as coughing and diarrhoea were observed in a pig farm located in T’ai-Tung County on 19 October 2009."

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reported to the World Health Organization that: "On November 5, Taiwan submitted a report to the World Animal Health Organization (OIE) confirming 2009 H1N1 in a swine herd in T’ai-Tung County. Illness was first observed on October 19 and tests confirmed 2009 H1N1 influenza on November 2. Clinical signs observed included coughing and diarrhea. All pigs have recovered from the illness."

What it hasn't done is gotten more severe. It's the most severe flu in over fifty (50) years but it hasn't gotten worst. "The World Health Organization has issued a statement that extensive testing has shown that the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus has not mutated to a more virulent form. In addition, the WHO emphasized that H1N1 infections in pets were "isolated events and pose no special risks to human health."

This H1N1 (swine flu) is not like other flus. This flu is different. From WHO we offer the following evidence:

"(U)nder the right conditions, influenza viruses from different species are capable of mixing and swapping genes (this is called reassortment), resulting in a new virus."

"(I)t is very uncommon for flu viruses to jump between species. However, on October 9, 2009, a USDA laboratory confirmed 2009/H1N1 infection in a ferret."

"On November 4, the Iowa State Veterinarian and the Iowa Department of Public Health announced that a pet cat was confirmed infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The cat's owners were ill and the cat developed respiratory symptoms shortly afterward. The cat has recovered and there is no evidence at this time that the cat passed the virus to any people."

"Keep in mind that dogs currently have their own flu virus, the H3N8 influenza (canine influenza) virus, going around. So far, this flu virus has only been spread from dog to dog. Dogs infected with the canine influenza virus show the same symptoms as dogs with kennel cough – fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, and maybe a runny nose."

"There is not a licensed and approved 2009 H1N1 vaccine for pets. The human H1N1 vaccine should not be used for pets. The canine influenza vaccine, which protects dogs from the H3N8 flu virus, will not protect pets against the 2009 H1N1 virus and should not be used in any species other than dogs."

We are not pigs, some of us have been accused of some unclean behavior and have eaten in a way to suggest we could have eaten less, but we aren't animals of the farm variety. Domestic maybe but that's debatable. There is a licensed and approved vaccine that can protect us. We just have to get access to it. What we do stress is that each life is precious and each death tragic. Retention and prevention should be our most pressing mission inspite of our couch like and unhealthy eating habits. We still want to live to make more bad unhealthy decisions.

We will leave you with this ONLY because yesterday was Sunday and we churched. While looking for a way to join the two stories we discovered this bible quote from the New Testament the eighth (8th) chapter of Luke: "Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. And they begged him repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss. A large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into them, and he gave them permission. When the demons came out of the man, they went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned.

Is that weird or what?

No Tree Falls in DC - Flu Stats 11/6/09

If a person dies in DC and there's no one to report it are they still dead? Good news for DC residents as there were no new deaths to flu or pneumonia reported this week. Which for MD and VA was true last year and the year before - however Maryland is still reporting to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the highest death tolls.

Pneumonia/Flu Deaths WEEK 43 2009 2008 2007 District of Columbia Baltimore, MD Richmond / Norfolk, VA 97 639 217 70 702 182 68 548 191 TOTALS 953 954 807

We love Assistant Surgeon General, Dr. Anne Schuchat of the CDC. Her press conferences are always so full of truth and information that they're scary. But we can handle the truth. Here it is (LISTEN) and remember don't panic!

• We wouldn't expect this many states to have this widespread of a disease. Flu can last until May.
• More than half the hospitalizations are in people under 25. 90% of the deaths are in people under 65. A flip-flop from what we see with seasonal flu.
• Two-thirds of the children who died from the H1N1 virus have underlying condition that is increase their risk of this problem. The leading underlying conditions in children who have died are severe neurologic problems like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy and asthma in terms of contributing to the severe outcomes.
• People are getting worse. They are not getting better, antivirals may be important.
• I don't think we are at peak as a nation as a whole. What I can say is that disease continues to occur at very high levels now.
  
  

  Total Doses Shipped as of* 10/28/09 11/06/09 Change District of Columbia Maryland Virginia 49,000 306,900 489,700 55,900 523,500 781,800 61% 44% 40% TOTALS 579400 1,361,200 43%

• The other thing to mention is that in pandemics in the past, it's been tricky to predict too far ahead. In 1957 there was a substantial amount of disease in the fall. People thought, pretty much gave the all-clear sign, then there was an increase in severe disease. Another wave in '58. We are very mindful that there's a long flu season ahead and we are going to be attentive to the needs of the population, the efforts to try to protect people going forward.
  
Almost all of the influenza viruses identified so far continue to be 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses. These viruses remain similar to the virus chosen for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, and remain susceptible to the antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir with rare exception.

Now yes, we know that sounds pretty bad but when you're being told the worse isn't it reassuring? That is unless you think its worst than that - which we don't. We think this is as bad as it is. We were concerned that the press wasn't telling us how bad it was. This is straight from the sources' mouth. No spin and that's assuring to us. If it's bad - and we know it is. Tell us its bad and what's being done. We'll take it from there. Now take it from here by taking care of yourself and your loved one. It's going to take more than just washing your hands. Get in line and get your shot. IF you're not feeling well go to the hospital and wait in line and get your shot. Don't wait - because you may survive and most of us will. It's not about the best outcome it's about the worse that could happen to YOU!

Conspiracy Fearies

You seen 'em. They're everywhere. Even notable comedian and social satirist Bill Maher suffers from 'em. From the H1N1 vaccine causes autism because there is mercury in the vaccine. Not True! Well there was mercury in the vaccine. Yes back in 1976 this is a new millennium. "The last swine flu vaccine, killed more than the virus itself. The vaccine program turned into a disaster." Not true! "(T)he virus is not a naturally occurring virus." It's alive! It's alive! Ala Dr. Frankenstein. Which is as fictitious as the monster and the doctor man.

This from the Washington Post last week: "There are other people who feel there is some sort of "conspiracy theory" regarding 2009 H1N1 and the vaccine involving the government/vaccine makers, etc. I can't comment on conspiracy theories, all I can point to is the scientific facts as we know them right now." There's even the "Craigslist" conspiracy about the woman who was buying a baby carriage or some sort of thing and a friend of a friend met this woman who works for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who told her some insider information that they're going to pass on to you.

Even though we don't know all the answers there is some sanity in the minds of the mental. Most of the all but most harden skeptics still when reviewing all the evidence don't quite reach the conclusion of mad scientist. From the third of a three (3) part article: "They are not saying not to vaccinate by the way, I want to make that clear. They are saying SLOW DOWN. Let’s look at what is going on. We went from 10 vaccines to 36 and kids are getting hurt."

Defeat Autism Now (DAN) has articles in its newsletter with heading like: "Study Shows Newborn Monkeys Given Vaccines Do Not Develop Normally" except the vaccine is a Thimerosal-Containing Hepatitis B Vaccine not the H1N1. If it's true for Hep B it must be the same for H1N1 after all doesn't it contain Thimerosal also? You'll have to wait until this week's conference presentation to find out who to blame. You might want to know that the presenters say: "While thimerosal is no longer used in Hepatitis B vaccines given to American infants, thimerosal-containing Hepatitis B vaccines are still widely used in many countries." You could travel there next. Boooo HAAAHAAA! Very scary!

The Age of Autism website has the very scary headline: "School Children Receiving H1N1 Vax without Parental Consent" and what happens next will chill your bones: "Two children were given the vaccine without their parent's consent. One mother said her daughter ended up in the emergency room after getting sick. It's a major mistake that could've cost one little girl her life." The story is reprinted from the NY CBS affiliate channel 2 reporter Jay Dow. It could turn out to be bad. It hasn't but it could!!!!!!

Just in time for Halloween! "Don't be afraid all I want is to" make you afraid. Our job is to take the fear of conspiracy "fearies!"

Not Quite True News

We often cite Reuters as our news source. It's a very normally reliable source of information. When we saw this story (U.S. may end up discarding unused H1N1 vaccine) and only on Reuters we were concerned because we knew the information to be untrue. So we went to the source and lo and behold it wasn't true.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) knows there is a problem and is extremely aware. This agency is doing all it can with what it has to work with. Their awareness should mean we won't be having these problems in the future. The Reuters headline is a result of reporter Reuters Maggie Fox's question: "I want to follow up on this question about the perceptions about the vaccines, is it frustrating to you that people on the one hand are saying, hey, we can't get this vaccine but then there's plenty of people saying don't get the vaccine it's dangerous. I know the last time that there was a shortage of vaccine, you ended up throwing doses away. Is there a risk of that happening here?"

The director of the CDC Dr. Thomas Frieden answered in this way: "I think the likelihood is that we are currently in a situation where we too little vaccine in the community. It's quite likely that that too little vaccine is one of the things that's making people more interested in getting vaccinated, frankly. Were we have shortages we see an increase in demand. It is likely also as we produce more vaccine and as both people are given the opportunity to get vaccinated, and as disease maybe wanes in the future, we will have significant amounts of vaccine that can't be used. The challenge at this point is to get what vaccine we have out now available to people, provide it to doctors offices, school, health care facilities and others as rapidly as possible so that as much as is available can be used. One of the messages for states, localities and health providers is not to reserve vaccine that they have available, to give it out as soon as it comes in, because more is on the way. And the production is now in a scaled up mode, so more being produced, not as much as we would like, but more is being produced and made available as soon as it can be."

Maybe you heard what Maggie Fox heard but the entire exchange is available at the CDC website from yesterday. (LISTEN to the entire news conference)

Verify Verify Verify

When we're not posting we're researching and following up stories and responding to questions posed by friends and other interested parties. We're here. We're just not here. Mostly we're investigating two reports. When volunteering and two different times we were distributing two (2) different vaccines. We're still awaiting the Department of Health's (DOH) for the District of Columbia response to the current distribution of vaccines. Whether its seasonal or the actual long delayed H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine. Our experience contradict each other.

Opponents to the vaccine said they weren't going to take the vaccine because the Obama children haven't taken it. We can report that they have taken both vaccines provided by the District of Columbia's Department of Health (DOH). " President and Mrs. Obama have not yet been vaccinated for H1N1, and they will wait until the needs of the priority groups identified by the CDC – including young people under the age of 24, pregnant women, and people with underlying conditions – have been met. The girls' H1N1 vaccine was administered by a White House physician, who applied for and received the vaccine from the DC Department of Health using the same process as every other vaccination site in the District."

What we have problems with is the waiting on the supplies if you're not in a high risk group. The problem is those in the "high risk" group don't think of themselves as high risk. Children and their parents are a high risk group and there's no way to prevent your getting the flu that's approved by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Their solution in the absence of the vaccine: "Take these everyday steps to protect your health."

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100°F or 37.8°C) or signs of a fever (without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®)
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.

Here's what the CDC said at their answer line concerning an email received suggesting ways of actually preventing the virus: "Thank you for your inquiry to CDC-INFO. In response to your request for information on H1N1 influenza (flu) and the use neti pots and sinus rinse kits, we can provide you with the following information. CDC does not test, evaluate, or endorse consumer products. Product safety and efficacy testing is under the purview of other Federal government agencies including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You may contact the FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA or through their website at: http://www.fda.gov You may contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 800-638-2772 or through their website at: http://www.cpsc.gov/ The spread of 2009 H1N1 virus is thought to happen in the same way that seasonal flu spreads within homes or communities. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people who are sick with flu. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it, and then touching their mouth or nose before washing their hands.

Until a vaccine is available, the best way to help fight novel H1N1 flu is to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue away. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Stay home if you're sick, and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them."

We didn't ask about NETI pots. We sent them the email we received. Their stock answer isn't very comforting. So we go with eating OLIVES available from your local dollar store or grocery for less than $1.00 a can. Added to your meals. The CDC might not endorse the method but we do!