Thalassemia Patients and Friends
Discussion Forums => General Chatter => Topic started by: poo gill on April 29, 2009, 06:37:25 AM
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Hi Friends
Please advise what is the best way to protect ourselves from Swine flu. Is vitamin C good?
Any suggestions.
As of now this Singapore is not affected but there are our friends in all over the world who can benefit from this discussion. Specially kids.
Thanks
puja
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http://www.swinefluoutbreaknews.com/ (http://www.swinefluoutbreaknews.com/)
As of now, people at CDC are trying to figure out the cure for it as the virus is bit tricky and continuously mutating with current one being the latest version. More information on precaution and symptoms can be viewed in the link above. May God protect us all
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WHO (World Health Organization raised its pandemic alert to 5 (6 being the highest). I am surprised the spread of the virus is going on so fast.
The precautions to take are the one's indicated for regular flu.
Wash hands more frequently.
Try not to touch surfaces/person that may be infected by the virus.
Don't touch mouth, nose, eyes after touching any such surface/person.
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The only Antiviral drugs (not vaccine) that's shown to prevent and decrease/cure the symptoms of the flu are Tamiflu (by Roche) and Relenza (by Glaxo). One of these drugs must be taken within the first 48 hrs of onset of flu symptoms. Only take these drugs if you are infected and observe symptoms. You do what Narendra suggested to prevent getting infected.
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Hi Buddies ,
Quetion's here :
is Palsitan is also at risk directly from virus ??? ....
Best REgards
Take Care
Umair
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Andy,
Does ritux leave lil A at a higher risk? There have been two confirmed cases in our city.
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is Pakistan is also at risk directly from virus Huh? ....
Well we have seen flu outbreaks here also as i remember we were given flu vaccines in school, Viruses are smart, so they reprogramme themselves to adjust with the environment they are in. Also as you know that Saudia Arabia has hot weather still it is compulsory for pilgrims to get flu vaccine before going there. So i think it has nothing to do with high temperatures, a single patient can start an outbreak if not properly handled (God forbid).
May God protect us all from such situations
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Andy,
Does ritux leave lil A at a higher risk? There have been two confirmed cases in our city.
Sharmin ,
Thats scary,i hope everyone will be ok,take care and stay safe :( .We already have enough on our plates what with thal and everything.
Zaini.
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Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think we (thals) are at a greater risk of getting infected, but, once infected, it may be harder for us to fight it as our immune system may not be as good as of normal individual, due to having a chronic condition.
Due to location (proximity to Mexico), US and Canada as well as the Central and South American countries would be at a higher risk of getting Swine Flu... Especially US as it shares border and the traffic to and from Mexico is usually pretty significant. However, these days there are many flights to and from Mexico from any major airport throughout the world, that I don't think any country in the world would be at no risk at all.
Umair and Tariq, viruses can usually live in extreme temperatures (especially hot temp).. They, however, require a host to live in and can't survive out in the atmosphere for long.
I heard in the news that Egypt slaughtered all their pigs to perhaps avoid mutation of the virus that occurs in pig's throat that initially created this particular strain of influenza virus that's transmittable to humans.. I thought I'd share the news... This resulting strain of virus is also transmittable from human to human and that's what's leading to possible pandemic (God forbid).
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Please correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think we (thals) are at a greater risk of getting infected, but, once infected, it may be harder for us to fight it as our immune system may not be as good as of normal individual, due to having a chronic condition.
Everybody is exposed equally but in thals case, immune system gives up quickly and let the infection proceed earlier than in normal people. Also we have an extra door of infection entry, our Tx. So we are at greater risk i think.
We have to avoid contact with every suspected flu patient and as mentioned in the topic take necessary precautions.
Our local news reported today that a passenger from Canada with possible flu landed here and is being kept in isolation until his flu is over.
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Also we have an extra door of infection entry, our Tx. So we are at greater risk i think.
That is exactly what I was also worried about. I called Stanford Blood Center to ask them if they're screening donated blood for the swine flu, and they responded, no as there's no approved screening test available for flu. :(
They explained to me that the leuko-reduced blood does not have a great chance of still containing any infections as most all WBC are taken out.. They further comforted me by reminding me that they conduct a detailed questionaire to ask donors whether they've had any symptoms in the last few days and whether they've travelled to any of the high risk locations (not only for flu but whole lot of other things). They also mentioned that they take the vitals (temp, weight, and BP) and if the donor was feeling ill, especially if he/she had a flu, it would be shown through abnormal temperature.
After hearing all this, I felt a bit comfortable, but even a small chance is still a chance.... :( I actually believe that exposure we get at work, in school, and in other public areas is greater of a risk than blood transfusion if it's packed red blood cells that you're getting.. You can also ask similar questions to your blood donor or blood bank, just to make sure...
I'm going in for blood draw tomorrow and for transfusion on Friday... I'll need your prayers in this critical time. I also pray for everyone's safety more than ever!
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They further comforted me by reminding me that they conduct a detailed questionaire to ask donors whether they've had any symptoms in the last few days and whether they've travelled to any of the high risk locations (not only for flu but whole lot of other things). They also mentioned that they take the vitals (temp, weight, and BP) and if the donor was feeling ill, especially if he/she had a flu, it would be shown through abnormal temperature.
Same practice is followed at my bank too fortunately. One question arises though, what is the duration in days between virus entry and noticeable symptoms in patient. Because if that is long, donor might get thru the checks if he/she just got the infection.But again that would be an exceptional case and exceptions are exceptions. Sorry if this talk is making people more worried but one's gotta know of what is headed ur way
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One question arises though, what is the duration in days between virus entry and noticeable symptoms in patient. Because if that is long, donor might get thru the checks if he/she just got the infection
Yes, I pointed out the same thing to that doctor I spoke with at the blood bank here, and she then mentioned that since hopefully no WBC are present and also plasma is removed, the risk is very low... and again, I say even a tiny risk is still a risk... Again, like Tariq mentioned, we're not trying to scare anyone.. but, we should know the practices being used at our blood banks and just know our risks...
I'm hopeful, though, that there are drugs that can help fight this flu and the vaccine would also be available soon, inshah-Allah. We should do everything under our control to prevent the disease and what's not in our control, all we can do about that is to pray and keep ourselves calm! I just ask Allah for our protection and what's best for us, Ameen!
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What Narendra said always applies. The best way to prevent colds and flu is cleanliness. Wash your hands after contact with people and surfaces.
Most people who have gotten this current flu have only had a mild flu. I do feel this scare is a bit overblown. 3000 people die on earth from malaria every day and the death count from swine flu measures in the dozens, but these "fad" illnesses get so much publicity that we get the impression that people are dropping like flies from swine flu when it really isn't the case. Observe clean habits and if you do get sick, see your doctor.
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Hi buddies,
hummm... situation seem really critical ...humm May ALLAH(GOD ) KEEP us all in His Safety and bless us all, with the best of health AMEEN ...
SF , please investigate completely bfore getting Tx and best of luck for your TX and health , MAy ALLAH keep you and all others safe to all kind of viruses and infections (AMEEN) , please keep us updated and keep in-touch , may GOD bless you ... Thanx alot for taking time to reply and informing and updating us abt the virus and risk for thals and other aspects of related to it ... Thanx alot ...
As for me : i got last Transfusion at last saturday and next will be a day bfore or a day after 6th may , till then i m at home not gona goo out-side ( as usual ) , may ALLAH keep all of us safe and healthy ... AMEEN
Andy, Tariq , SF, Zaini , Sharmin, Lil-A, Lil-Z ,Ahmed, Manala and all , you're always in my prayers may GOD bless you all with the best of health and everything ... God Bless you all buddies & all other thals , members and all oter people of the world ...
Best Regards
Take CAre
Stay Safe
Umair
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I do agree with Andy, completely. After all, it's a way of selling Tamiflu, right? Roche lost a lot in Tamiflu last year and just after Q1 of this year, we see a great need for this drug all over the world... makes you wonder... :huh Besides, every year we see sooo many deaths from just flu in the US and around the world.. then, why is this year any special?
It's also another thing to think about for people to divert their attention (at least a bit) from other critical issues of present time like the unemployment rate almost hitting 11-12% at least here in the SF bay area, CA..
We do, however, need to be informed and protect ourselves.. Just don't be too scared... :biggrin
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Umair,
Thank you so much for all your wishes and prayers!! You are also in my prayers!
Best Regards,
SF
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creating demand for supply huh, like SARS and bird flu
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Bingo! What happened to the bird flu that George Bush said would kill 2 million Americans? It doesn't even cross to humans. There are reasons why these things are so over-publicized. In 1976 there was the swine flu scare that led to many people getting a dangerous vaccine that caused paralysis and even death. Meanwhile, the flu itself never manifested as a real risk. Selling vaccines and flu drugs probably has more to do with these scares than any dangers from the flu. People die during every flu outbreak and they are usually sickly people who succumb to a related infection, like strep. With modern antibiotics, the flu deaths seen after World War I wilkl probably never be seen again, as most of these deaths were actually from strep.
See Dr Mercola's report at http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/04/29/Swine-Flu.aspx
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potential issue + tons of media exaggeration = more funds, more donations and more customers
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Hi pals
I have been watching "journal de la sante" and indeed the doctors said that this swine flu is being exaggerated. However they said that in case anyone contracted it, he should be given an antiviral within 24 hours. People die from complication such as respiratory problems, pneumonia etc. They also said that people with deficient respiratory function, such as allergies and asthma are at greater risk and that they should be careful. To avoid the spread of infections, they said that hands should be regularly washed and face mask should be worn if the virus is present in the neighbourhood.
Take care
Jade
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I pray that we all get through this safely and that no one else dies because of it.
My love and thoughts are with you all and I pray we will be vigilant in taking precautions.
:angel2 :angel1 :angel2 :angel1
:candle
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I don't mind getting the flu before it mutate... This will help us become stronger if it really mutate
I am just really worried of my 5 mth son.. heard its deadly for younger folks... take care..
heard that these new virus are act of company trying to sell their drug..
ever wonder why cancer can be controlled but not cured by drug... so that drug company can earn long term $.
They are spending little S&M money in this swine case and having lots of publicity.
Their drug are like sold out in everycountry now...
Even those vaccinne... it may do more harm than good.. don't know who to trust these days...
Anyway I think flu hit harder on Thal victim... take care and slp early! :wink
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Hi there
there is one case of H1N1 which got to Mauritius (tourist). Hopefully this will not spread since the authorities have already taken the necessary measures. In addition to this flu, we have Dengue fever here. Luckily we are in winter, there will be less proliferation of mosquitoes. This virus causes haemorrage and it can be fatal to those with blood disorders or anemia. This has me truly worried. I hope the authorities will be able to control it as they had effectively done with chikungunia and malaria.
Manal
How are you and how is your son? Hope you are both doing well. Take care.
Jade
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hello,
my niece was really sick with flu. the gp said it s a mild case of swine flu. it has spread to her brother and her mum....now my mum has it. it is bad...its like the worst flu you've had trebled in just one day for her.....but my cousin sis was over it in one day! we will be visiting with them soon....gonna make sure we are kitted out with proper protective gear...from head to toe :)
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Jade
Thanks dear, everything is fine. We started the summer vacation and now i left Cairo and i am staying at the north coast for the summmer vacation, around a month. The kids are so excited, they are enjoying the sea and want to do many things at a time :biggrin
Emby
I am sorry to hear this. I hope everyone recovers very soon. Please keep updating
manakl
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Hi Manal
I am happy to hear that. Enjoy yourself. Have a good time. Take care of yourself and of your little family.
Jade
Hi Emby
I hope that your relatives get well soon. You are right to take precautions, it is highly infectious.
Take care
Jade
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hiya,
manal, jade thank you for your concern...my mum saying she feels worst is over. i'd say that she had it real bad for three days...fourth day she is left with runny nose and as if body been on a few rounds in a boxing ring....poor mum! they live in london i'm in a different city....but i feel this is the pattern when catching this flu. alot of my relatives seem to have caught it in london with same level of time for recovery and same symptons. doctors are no longer giving out tamiflu with there being far too many cases...they are saying get over it, if symtons worsen go to hospital.
my feeling about this now is that this may not be that bad...we all catch flus that last for a few days to a week or two....perhaps if caught the body has got barriers to fight it....i wouldn't say this applys to people with certain chronic conditions but if a thalasseamic is in general good health catches it then their chances of recovery is the same as anyone else. the scary thing about this flu is the ability it has in spreading and how it is affecting people all around the world all at one time......dunno...what do you think?........guess what i'm saying is try not to worry about it too much......................................................................................eeeeeew !! hope i'm not wrong!!
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Emby, i really do agree with you but i am still so scared about the thals who live with low HB :wah
manal
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hiya manal, i agree that one thals situation is different to anothers. i don't compare my youngest to my oldest son. the way they are with their thal is not the same....and yes people should be careful....but not too scared (government scare mongering...why do not any of the politicians catch it, ha!?! ooops, apology to any politician on this forum..)
i dunno.....do you think its comparable to chicken pox?.....both are contagious and both can have some serious affects. we are told its good if you catch it very young and that it could be dangerous when you are older. i have heard of people being hospitalised with it and again sadly people have passed away cos of it. my son was 15 and the other 11 when they had chicken pox....i thought that i was finished with mine but i had it when i was 35!! by Mercy of God we were fine...we had it at exactly the same time!
anyway my mum is still recovering (they say to give it 7 days) and i want to see her this weekend. the boys are not bothered about it...they love being there....i miss my mum alot....my best friend (other than my hubby)...we hardly get together, perhaps 2/3 times a year. i don't know if we should go or not.... ???....don't know what to do.
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i agree that one thals situation is different to anothers. i don't compare my youngest to my oldest son. the way they are with their thal is not the same....and yes people should be careful....but not too scared ...
I really do agree :wink
I hope that you can soon see your mum :hugfriend
manal
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Not sure if any one you read the comment of Dr. Ellis Neufeld in regards with Swine Flu (H1N1 virus) in the CAF Medical Update - June 2009. I think his words were from Feb 2009, so it might be a little out of date.
From:- http://www.cooleysanemia.com/updates/MUJune09.pdf
Several people have contacted CAF asking if there are any special precautions that people with thalassemia need to consider in terms of the current swine flu situation. We forwarded this question to Dr. Ellis Neufeld, the Chair of the CAF Medical Advisory Board.
This is his response: “First, a few disclaimers: I am not an infectious disease expert, and the scope of the problem is
not clear yet. This will need to be reevaluated over coming days/weeks. The fact that there are 100 deaths can’t be evaluated until it is clear how many folks had mild disease. If 1000 people had the disease, this is a high fatality rate and worrisome. If 100,000 people had the disease, the death rate is lower and the concern would be
lower, but more people would be affected.
“(At the moment), it’s a national health “emergency” because this allows the government to distribute anti-flu drugs in stockpiles. If it becomes a genuine emergency, it’s vital to follow official public health evaluations.
“Here are some general comments.
a. Evaluation of fever: thalassemia patients without ports/central lines should be evaluated like anybody else. CALL your physician if you have symptoms of fever, muscle aches. Don’t just go in.
b. Patients with no spleen or central lines need to be evaluated for fever even if flu is prevalent (as in February).
c. Good handwashing is the best way to stay safe!
d. Thalassemia patients will be in a unique position if this proves to be a serious epidemic because they will need to go to the hospital for transfusions, regardless. But see the disclaimers above; we need to wait.”
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How simple, but true. If people remember to wash their hands after being exposed to other people or after touching surfaces, there will be much fewer colds and flu. And never rub your eyes if your hands aren't clean. It's one of the quickest ways to get sick.
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Thank you for the information Narendra and Andy.
Two women have died in our city in recent weeks - one was fifty years old, the other was a 25 year old mom who had no prior history of illness. It is so hard to know, this virus is so illusive and it is hard to know who will be affected how with it.
Stay safe all and wash your hands!
Sharmin
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HI guys
H1N1 finally got into the country. On 29 infected cases, there is already 3 deaths, a lady aged 54 yrs, a girl aged 4 yrs and a young man aged 30 yrs. I find this quite alarming. I am freaking out, i am afraid of sending my children to school, particularly with my son ongoing cough(with mucus). From what I have been reading, the most common complication of the flu is pneumonia. The patients develop very large quantities of mucus.
I believe that it is good to educate children on the various precautions to take but children being children, they just forget that they should avoid certain things. For example, at school, they may go downstairs to wash their hands before eating but when coming up they may forget not to touch the hand rail, the door knob, the table, the pencil of their friend etc.
i have found something on antiviral for the flu and hope it will be helpful.
Quote from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Antiviral Resistance
This novel (H1N1) influenza virus is sensitive (susceptible) to the neuraminidase inhibitor antiviral medications, zanamivir and oseltamivir. It is resistant to the adamantane antiviral medications, amantadine and rimantadine.
Antiviral Treatment for Novel (H1N1) Influenza
For antiviral treatment of novel influenza (H1N1) virus infection, either oseltamivir or zanamivir are recommended Table 1. Recommendations for use of antivirals may change as data on antiviral effectiveness, clinical spectrum of illness, adverse events from antiviral use, and antiviral susceptibility data become available.
Clinical judgment is an important factor in treatment decisions. Persons with suspected novel H1N1 influenza who present with an uncomplicated febrile illness typically do not require treatment unless they are at higher risk for influenza complications, and in areas with limited antiviral mediation availability, local public health authorities might provide additional guidance about prioritizing treatment within groups at higher risk for infection.
Treatment is recommended for:
1. All hospitalized patients with confirmed, probable or suspected novel influenza (H1N1).
2. Patients who are at higher risk for seasonal influenza complications (see above).
If a patient is not in a high-risk group or is not hospitalized, healthcare providers should use clinical judgment to guide treatment decisions, and when evaluating children should be aware that the risk for severe complications from seasonal influenza among children younger than 5 years old is highest among children younger than 2 years old. Many patients who have had novel influenza (H1N1) virus infection, but who are not in a high-risk group have had a self-limited respiratory illness similar to typical seasonal influenza. For most of these patients, the benefits of using antivirals may be modest. Therefore, testing, treatment and chemoprophylaxis efforts should be directed primarily at persons who are hospitalized or at higher risk for influenza complications.
Once the decision to administer antiviral treatment is made, treatment with zanamivir or oseltamivir should be initiated as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms. Evidence for benefits from antiviral treatment in studies of seasonal influenza is strongest when treatment is started within 48 hours of illness onset. However, some studies of oseltamivir treatment of hospitalized patients with seasonal influenza have indicated benefit, including reductions in mortality or duration of hospitalization even for patients whose treatment was started more than 48 hours after illness onset. Recommended duration of treatment is five days. Antiviral doses recommended for treatment of novel H1N1 influenza virus infection in adults or children 1 year of age or older are the same as those recommended for seasonal influenza (Table 1). Oseltamivir use for children <1 year old was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), and dosing for these children is age-based (Table 2) (See Emergency Use Authorization of Tamiflu (oseltamivir)).
Note: Areas that continue to have seasonal influenza activity, especially those with circulation of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal human influenza A (H1N1) viruses, might prefer to use either zanamivir or a combination of oseltamivir and rimantadine or amantadine to provide adequate empiric treatment or chemoprophylaxis for patients who might have seasonal human influenza A (H1N1) virus infection.
Antiviral Chemoprophylaxis for Novel (H1N1) Influenza
For antiviral chemoprophylaxis of novel (H1N1) influenza virus infection, either oseltamivir or zanamivir are recommended (Table 1). Duration of antiviral chemoprophylaxis post-exposure is 10 days after the last known exposure to novel (H1N1) influenza. The indication for post-exposure chemoprophylaxis is based upon close contact with a person who is a confirmed, probable or suspected case of novel influenza A (H1N1) virus infection during the infectious period of the case. The infectious period for persons infected with the novel influenza A (H1N1) virus is assumed to be similar to that observed in studies of seasonal influenza. With seasonal influenza, studies have shown that people may be able to transmit infection beginning one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be infectious for longer periods. However, for this guidance, the infectious period is defined as one day before until 7 days after the case’s onset of illness. If the contact occurred with a case whose illness started more than 7 days before contact with the person under consideration for antivirals, then chemoprophylaxis is not necessary. For pre-exposure chemoprophylaxis, antiviral medications should be given during the potential exposure period and continued for 10 days after the last known exposure to a person with novel (H1N1) influenza virus infection during the cases infectious period. Oseltamivir can also be used for chemoprophylaxis under the EUA for children less than 1 year of age (see Children Under 1 Year of Age).
Post exposure antiviral chemoprophylaxis with either oseltamivir or zanamivir can be considered for the following:
1. Close contacts of cases (confirmed, probable, or suspected) who are at high-risk for complications of influenza
2. Health care personnel, public health workers, or first responders who have had a recognized, unprotected close contact exposure to a person with novel (H1N1) influenza virus infection (confirmed, probable, or suspected) during that person’s infectious period. Information on appropriate personal protective equipment is available at: Interim Guidance for Infection Control for Care of Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Infection in a Healthcare Setting and might be updated frequently as additional information on transmission becomes available.
Pre-exposure antiviral chemoprophylaxis should only be used in limited circumstances, and in consultation with local medical or public health authorities. Certain persons at ongoing occupational risk for exposure who are also at higher risk for complications of influenza (e.g., health care personnel, public health workers, or first responders who are working in communities with influenza A H1N1 outbreaks) should carefully follow guidelines for appropriate personal protective equipment or consider temporary reassignment.
Antiviral Agents for Seasonal Influenza: Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
* Drug Interactions
When considering use of influenza antiviral medications (i.e., choice of antiviral drug, dosage, and duration of therapy), clinicians must consider the patient's age, weight, and renal function (See Table); presence of other medical conditions; indications for use (i.e., chemoprophylaxis or therapy); and the potential for interaction with other medications.
Zanamivir
Limited data are available about the safety or efficacy of zanamivir for persons with underlying respiratory disease or for persons with complications of acute influenza, and zanamivir is licensed only for use in persons without underlying respiratory or cardiac disease. In a study of zanamivir treatment of ILI among persons with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in which study medication was administered after use of a B2-agonist, 13% of patients receiving zanamivir and 14% of patients who received placebo (inhaled powdered lactose vehicle) experienced a greater than 20% decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) after treatment. However, in a phase-I study of persons with mild or moderate asthma who did not have ILI, one of 13 patients experienced bronchospasm after administration of zanamivir. In addition, during postmarketing surveillance, cases of respiratory function deterioration after inhalation of zanamivir have been reported. Because of the risk for serious adverse events and because efficacy has not been demonstrated among this population, zanamivir is not recommended for treatment for patients with underlying airway disease. Allergic reactions, including oropharyngeal or facial edema, also have been reported during postmarketing surveillance.
In clinical treatment studies of persons with uncomplicated influenza, the frequencies of adverse events were similar for persons receiving inhaled zanamivir and for those receiving placebo (i.e., inhaled lactose vehicle alone). The most common adverse events reported by both groups were diarrhea, nausea, sinusitis, nasal signs and symptoms, bronchitis, cough, headache, dizziness, and ear, nose, and throat infections. Each of these symptoms was reported by less than 5% of persons in the clinical treatment studies combined. Zanamivir does not impair the immunologic response to TIV.
Oseltamivir
Nausea and vomiting were reported more frequently among adults receiving oseltamivir for treatment (nausea without vomiting, approximately 10%; vomiting, approximately 9%) than among persons receiving placebo (nausea without vomiting, approximately 6%; vomiting, approximately 3%). Among children treated with oseltamivir, 14% had vomiting, compared with 8.5% of placebo recipients. Overall, 1% discontinued the drug secondary to this side effect, and a limited number of adults who were enrolled in clinical treatment trials of oseltamivir discontinued treatment because of these symptoms. Similar types and rates of adverse events were reported in studies of oseltamivir chemoprophylaxis. Nausea and vomiting might be less severe if oseltamivir is taken with food. No published studies have assessed whether oseltamivir impairs the immunologic response to TIV.
Transient neuropsychiatric events (self-injury or delirium) have been reported postmarketing among persons taking oseltamivir; the majority of reports were among adolescents and adults living in Japan. FDA advises that persons receiving oseltamivir be monitored closely for abnormal behavior.
Has anyone been using these drugs?
Jade
( sorry for the earlier post, I don't know where the information went earlier)
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Anyone with a compromised immune system should do their best to avoid public exposure during the flu outbreaks. If a child has a cold or sinus infection, do not send them to school. Many locales have suspended classes during outbreaks. This flu hits those with a weak immune system the hardest, so please be cautious if your child has any illness.
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Thank you Andy.
I really want to keep my son at home. I live in a small island which means densely populated and this is proving to be a major disadvantage with the contagious diseases.
Has anyone been using oseltamivir?
Is Oseltamivir being recommended by the medical institutes of your country in the treatment of H1N1?
Jade
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Jade,
I am so sorry to hear about this situation,May Allah keep your family and other people out there safe,you are in my prayers :hugfriend keep updating.
Zaini.
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Jade,
i hope that your family will remain safe , plz take some safety measures that has been given by docotr and stay safe ... always praying for you all , May GOD keep you and all safe from H1N1 and all kind of other viruses and diseases :pray ...
Lots of Best Wishes
& Best Regards
Umair
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I too have the same concern especially that schools will start in 15 days and we already have more than 200 people who got the swine flu :wah
manal
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Manal,
wishing and praying the same for you and your kidz :grin ... hope that it will b cleared up to your country bfore opening the schoolz Ameen .. :)
Best Regards
Umair
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We were told in Oakland that a vaccine is available - I am looking into it for lil A before school starts (don't know if it is available yet...). This year the flu shot will include one normal flu shot plus two shots for H1N1. Please get your shots - all family members should get the flu shot in order to protect the family member with thalassemia or any other illness.
Be safe,
Sharmin
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Thank you for your duas.
Sharmin,
I don't know if the vaccines for H1N1 have been tested and found effective for the flu. But I would like to tell u that once before a vaccine was prepared in a hurry and injected to part of the population and it was detrimental to their health instead of curing. So have a look around whether others have taken the shots and are ok.
Manal
May Allah keep us all safe. Ameen.
Talk to the children about the precautions to be taken.
Take care
Jade
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Jade,
I heard the same thing about an old vaccine that caused serious side effects like paralysis and death. I don't know if the vaccine they have been talking about in the media is the same or another version :huh :dunno :dunno
Thanks for the advice dear, i keep saying and saying and i am sure you can expect what's the outcome :mad
manal
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God, I hope they know what they're doing with this vaccine. There is absolutely no indication that the CDC has learned anything though, since the 1976 flu vaccination program that saw over 25 deaths and over 550 cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome among vaccine recipients. The CDC still will not acknowledge a connection. I am actually quite nervous about this vaccine to be given in two doses because it will not be tested sufficiently before being used on the public. The subject of vaccinations is one where I disagree with much of the medical profession, as many vaccines have been linked to autism and many are quite frankly, completely unnecessary and have many side effects (Gardisil is one that is making tons of money for some of the local Rochester doctors, but is extremely hard to justify. I see its widespread use as more of a success of a public relations campaign rather than because of some true need, but of course, this is my opinion). There is going to be tremendous pressure put on the public to comply with vaccination for this flu and much talk about it being made compulsory. I really wish that this was slowed down enough to ensure that this vaccine is both safe and effective.
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Yikes,
I was going to start phoning around to get our family the shots - now I am reluctant... My son's pediatrician and the docs in Oakland encouraged us to get the flu shot and the H1N1 shot, but I don't want to take any unnecessary risks with the kids ??? ???
Sharmin
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I know tihis sounds selfish, but I want to see the vaccine tested on someone else before I take it. My doctor told me in June that he wants to give me the shots. I don't want to panic anyone but we should all push for thorough testing before this is widely used.
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Sharmin
encouraged us to get the flu shot and the H1N1 shot,
I am now very reluctant about any vaccinations after reading the posts by Bigg that where disscussing the presence of mercurey (thimerosal) in vaccines and how these are wide spread in the USA, Canda and exported to developing countries except some of the Eurepean countries and Japan that by law prevent usage of such vaccines. As Andy said, this thimerasol is the responsible for triggering Austism
http://www.thalassemiapatientsandfriends.com/index.php?topic=2951.msg29473#msg29473
http://www.thinktwice.com/fraud2.htm
Anyway it seems that there will be no long terms study for the side effect of the swine flu vaccine if it will be available in such short time
manal
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Exactly Manal,
no long term study for the side effects, the drug companies are in a hurry to provide this vaccine in the market. Consequently they do not have adequate time to cope with the side effects and the question that arises is: which one is more dangerous for our health, the swine flu or the vaccine itself?
I am very sceptical about the swine flu vaccine. I have only had the vaccine for the lungs (is "silicosis" the medical term?) which helps against swine flu and I am going to have the usual annual flu vaccine. For the rest we'll see.
Lena.
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All the schools have been closed down for one week. Let us hope this reduces the spread of the flu and also that by next week, the climate changes, that is summer sets in for good. There is also the threat of Chikungunia since Reunion island which is very near has it. If only that flu would stop, Chikungunia is manageable because it comes from mosquitoes and we managed that successfully a few years ago. but the two together will be disastrous.
Take care
Jade
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Jade,
I really really hope this tough situation will resolve soon,please keep observing the safety measures and stay safe :hugfriend .
Zaini.
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Hoping for the best to all of us
manal
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Hoping for the best to all of us
manal
Me too.
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Hi Zahra
I read that your son contracted the H1N1 flu. Is he ok now? How did you know it was H1N1 and not seasonal flu, was the test carried out or was it the symptoms? What medication did you use?
i hope the little guy is better now.
Take care
Jade
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Jade
I remember that Zahra said that she did the test for her little baby.
manal
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Manal
Thank you.
I just wanted to know how they treat people with H1N1 in other countries. I like being informed beforehand. You know with that allergy (cough) I am worried because the complication of H1N1 is pneumonia.
You know here, the test is performed only when the person has died. Frankly what is the purpose of doing it at all? It baffles me. If a person does not know what he has how can he treat himself?apparently, the test is too expensive and only 6 tests can be carried out in day.
How is it in Egypt? Are there many cases? Be careful with the children.
I am very glad to hear that Zahra's son has fully recovered.Alhamdulilla
Take care
Jade
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Yes Jade i am worried too but not from the H1N1 alone but from any mutation that can appear especially we have bird flu too (mainly in villages) and autumn is around the corners.
I agree with you about doing the tests after a person dies, very strange...no point
In Egypt, last thing i read in the news was that around 200 to 250 were infected (mainly coming from abroad)but one or two only died. Here when anyone is suspected either in airports or through symptoms, a blood test is done to check whether it is the H1N1 virus or not and if yes, the person is taken to a special government hospital and given the tami-flu. Also all the family members around him/her get tested too.
But people are now demending that the government would let other private labs conduct the test espeically that they expect numbers of patients to increase by winter and they are also demand that private hospitals would receive patients with swine flu instead of this just one hospital which i believe they will if it spreads more.
Also the government restricted pilgrimage to everyone except people between the age of 25 to 60 and with no serious illness like heart or lung problems.
So i hope things can be controllred
manal
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We have been reading that people around the age of 40 years, who are otherwise healthy are most likely to become seriously ill from H1N1.
I hope that everyone is able to stay safe,
Sharmin
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Sharmin
It is the same case here too. Some people with no known complications beforehand and around 20-40 yrs have died but there are also children of 2 and 4 years. It seems that there is no exact age group, it can be any. I wanted to point out that a doctor said that tamiflu has more side effects than benefits(it causes delirium). He also suggested to increase the intake of vegetables and fruits(yellow and red).
The vaccine has reached France and England. Is it being distributed to Americans too?
Take care
Jade
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Concerned about Swine Flu? Here is a nice article i read on CNN. Dr. Sanjay Gupta shares some good points.
From: http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/09/01/parents.h1n1.flu.guide.gupta/index.html
Point 1. As things stand now, the vast majority of children who develop flu-like symptoms this fall will have a few miserable days, and nothing more. And those days are best spent at home -- not in the ER or a doctor's office.
Point 2. If you are worried, you should call your pediatrician's office first. Don't take your child in without calling. Two reasons: Your child may not have H1N1, but could become exposed by being around sick children. And, after several hours of waiting, you are still likely to be told the basics -- plenty of fluids, rest and dose-appropriate acetaminophen for a fever. After all, it is still the flu we are talking about.
Point 3. One doctor told me a way to think about things that was helpful. He said "remove the term H1N1 from the equation." If your child had regular flu, would you take him to the hospital? If the answer is no, then don't take him/her to the hospital now.
Point 4. Yes, hearing between 30,000 and 90,000 could die from H1N1 is scary, but keep in mind -- around 40,000 people die from the regular or seasonal flu every year. The numbers may not be that much different, yet there is not panic about the regular flu. As things look now, H1N1 is causing only mild to moderate illness, not the widespread deaths people are worried about.
Point 4. There are some children who should be seen by their doctor. Call your doctor if:
• A baby younger than 12 weeks has a fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
• A child, older than 12 weeks has a fever for three days
• A child's fever returns after a 12-24 hour time period
• A child is not passing urine or making tears for more than six hours
A child does not smile or show interest in playing for several hours
Dial 911 if:
• A child cannot speak while trying to breathe
• Has a blue or dark purple color to the nail beds, lips or gums
• Is not responding to you because he is too tired or weak
One point that was reinforced to me over and over again by the pediatricians is the best place for a sick child is at home. And, with regard to school -- after 24 fever-free hours without the aid of medications, he or she can go back.
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Thanks for sharing Narendra,that was really helpful.
Zaini.
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I have reeived a mail from a friend explaining the Difference between Cold and Swine Flu Symptoms. You can find it in the attachement.
Hope it helps
Manal
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Just want to share something with you my friends :wink
At the beginning of this month (actually it was a Thursday), my son came home with a fever of 39.8 degrees. He had got nothing except that he started coughing by night (unfortunatly his doctor was travelling and usually on Thursdays and Fridays, private clinics are closed.) Anyway, i suspected that it was a viral infection (usually each year, in winter he can get a viral infection that will cause a fever with no symptoms and the doctors give him only medicines to normalise the fever nothing more, so i thought it is the same thing and what made me sure of that is that he was active and with no body pains at all.
Anyway, i started giving him nothing but medication for lowering the fever, which remained there until Sunday night. Starting Monday and Tuesday, the temperature was normal. Wednesday, i gave him a shower and the next day he had got fever again 39.5 just for one day, BUT this particular day he was so weak and with no energy at all and really looked soooo pale. Then day by day he started gaining his health and he is just fine now.
Some days ago, i got to know that when my son had his fever (Thursday), five of his friends in his class were diagnoised by PCR on Friday having swine flu (Just 24 hours from the last time they saw my son). When i knew this, actually i was shocked, could this be a swine flu that caused him the fever???? It didn't cross my mind to do the PCR at the time of fever because actually, he was very active and didn't have body aches so it shouldn't be a flu.
I asked if there is a test that could detect antibodies so i can be sure if he had it or not, but actually we don'rt have it here :-\
I hope it was, but unfortunatly can not be sure.
One more thing to tell you, my cousin and her two boys had later got swine flu and though they had at the same time, each had it in a different way. My cousin (mother) just a fever for two days, but with severe body aches. Her 11 years old son, had a fever of only 37.8, but develped sever complications in the chest (was on pnemonia drugs, was so tough on him) while her other son,8 years old, had a very high fever 40 c with diarreah and vomitting only (no cough at all). So perhaps, swine flu just hits the weak part of the body :dunno :dunno
manal
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H1N1 flu is viral in nature and effects differently in different people. I don't know if your son had it or not but it is known that sometimes the H1N1 can be cured on its own. My wife works with a cardiologist and she had seen atleast 4 cases where people with H1N1 opted not to have any medication and were fine in 4-5 days.
There is a test that can be done to detect if one has H1N1 or not, results are available within 24 hours.
The most common symptom of H1N1 is sudden cough with high fever. The virus attacks the lungs and causes the severe cough. The other symptoms are secondary and may or may not present themselves.
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Yes i agree with you Canadian family. the test we have here is the PCR that detects the antigens, but we don't have the one showing the antibodes, so i guess i will never know :dunno
manal