 |
|
Circulation of 'disaster myths' in Haiti could hinder appropriate disposal of bodies
September 30, 2004Myths about the infectious disease threat posed by dead bodies could lead to insensitive and inappropriate treatment of victims' bodies following the floods in Haiti, and need to be checked, according to a public health researcher who has studied the potential risks at length.
Although most of the media coverage of the disaster has been responsible and accurate, there have been some reports which wrongly state that dead bodies can cause epidemics.
'Fear that dead bodies cause epidemics in the surviving population has led to measures such as burial in mass graves without proper identification of the victims', comments Oliver Morgan, a researcher at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, whose paper reviewing the scientific literature to assess the infectious disease risks of dead bodies following natural disasters appeared in the Pan American Journal of Public Health recently. 'However, in the current situation in Haiti, the risk that dead bodies pose to the public is extremely small', he adds.
Morgan found that most of the victims usually die from trauma rather then 'epidemic-causing' infections. He says: 'In many natural disasters, the risk of epidemics is used to justify measures such as rapid mass burial. The result is that the victims are often not identified, leaving family members searching for their loved ones'.
Unlike the general public, those who are involved in close contact with the dead-such as military personnel, rescue workers, volunteers, and others-may be exposed to chronic infectious hazards, including hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, HIV, enteric pathogens, and tuberculosis. Morgan advises that suitable precautions for these people should include training, use of body bags and disposable gloves, good hygiene practice, and vaccination for hepatitis B and tuberculosis.
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
Morgan found that most of the victims usually die from trauma rather then 'epidemic-causing' infections. He says: 'In many natural disasters, the risk of epidemics is used to justify measures such as rapid mass burial. The result is that the victims are often not identified, leaving family members searching for their loved ones'.
Unlike the general public, those who are involved in close contact with the dead-such as military personnel, rescue workers, volunteers, and others-may be exposed to chronic infectious hazards, including hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, HIV, enteric pathogens, and tuberculosis. Morgan advises that suitable precautions for these people should include training, use of body bags and disposable gloves, good hygiene practice, and vaccination for hepatitis B and tuberculosis.
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)
Hepatitis Current Events and Hepatitis News RSSToward explaining why hepatitis B hits men harder than women
Scientists in China are reporting discovery of unusual liver proteins, found only in males, that may help explain the long-standing mystery of why the hepatitis B virus (HBV) sexually discriminates -- hitting men harder than women.
Largest-ever database for liver proteins may lead to treatments for hepatitis
Scientists at a group of 11 research centers in China are reporting for the first time assembly of the largest-ever collection of data about the proteins produced by genes in a single human organ.
Mount Sinai finds those with more difficult to treat forms of HCV are half as likely to get treated
A new study by Mount Sinai researchers has for the first time found that patients with more difficult to treat forms of hepatitis C are half as likely to initiate treatment for the disease, when compared to patients with hepatitis C that is easier to treat.
Extending treatment after liver transplant may benefit patients with hepatitis C recurrence
Extending hepatitis C treatment for liver transplant patients beyond current practice results in high rates of clearance of the hepatitis C virus from the blood, as well as a low rate of relapse, according to a Henry Ford Hospital study.
Hepatitis B does not increase risk for pancreatic cancer
A Henry Ford Hospital study found that hepatitis B does not increase the risk for pancreatic cancer - and that only age is a contributing factor.
Governor recognizes stem cell research at Einstein
Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University hosted a roundtable discussion on stem cell research with New York Governor David A. Paterson today.
Liver cells grown from patients' skin cells
Scientists at The Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee have successfully produced liver cells from patients' skin cells opening the possibility of treating a wide range of diseases that affect liver function.
Injury and hazards in home health care nursing are a growing concern
Patients continue to enter home healthcare ''sicker and quicker," often with complex health problems that may require extensive nursing care.
Medication effective for acute liver failure in early stages of disease
The antidote for acute liver failure caused by acetaminophen poisoning also can treat acute liver failure due to most other causes if given before severe injury occurs, UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers and their colleagues at 21 other institutions have found.
New aging studies improving vaccine efficacy for the elderly
A new study from the Trudeau Institute in Saranac Lake, New York, demonstrates that immune system cells important for both pathogen resistance and vaccine efficacy live longer in older animals but because of this longevity acquire functional defects.
More Hepatitis Current Events and Hepatitis News Articles
 |
Dr. Melissa Palmer's Guide To Hepatitis and Liver Disease by Melissa Palmer (Author) In the United States alone, more than four million people are infected with the hepatitis C virus, and chronic liver disease is the twelfth leading cause of death. In this revised and updated edition of her groundbreaking 2000 book, renowned hepatologist Dr. Melissa Palmer discusses all facets of liver disease, from symptoms and tests to treatment options and lifestyle changes. In addition, this comprehensive handbook reveals cutting-edge research on the dangers of hepatitis C, one of the world's fasting-growing microbial threats. |
 |
Living With Hepatitis C For Dummies by Nina L. Paul (Author), Gina Pollichino (Foreword) A comprehensive, empathetic guide for anyone suffering from this serious liver disease Approximately 4 million Americans and 170 million people worldwide suffer from hepatitis C, a viral liver disease that is treatable but not curable. It accounts for more than 40 percent of U.S. liver disease deaths–about 8,000 to 10,000 people annually–and is the most common reason for liver transplantation. This compassionate guide explains how hepatitis C affects the liver and the body and provides solid advice on today’s treatment options–from drugs (and their side effects) to transplants and alternative therapies–as well as tips on dealing with the emotional and financial burdens the disease brings with it. Nina L Paul, PhD (New York, NY) earned her doctorate in infectious... |
 |
HEPATITIS GIANT MICROBE by Giant Microbes HAV is spread primarily by unsanitary food and water ? HBV is transmitted in bodily fluids and can cause chronic liver disease ? HCV is perhaps the most dangerous: no vaccine is available ? HDV occurs only in the presence of HBV ? HEV is relatively mild and non-chronic ? HFV and HGV are newly identified; their connection with liver disease is debated |
 |
Understanding Hepatitis B (Home Use) Part of the award winning public television series Healthy Body/Healthy Mind. Hepatitis B is the most common Hepatitis virus affecting more than a billion people world wide. Unfortunately many of the people who carry the virus don't even know they're infected. As a result the infection continues to proliferate. But there is a serious effort to eradicate this virus, through treatment and vaccine programs. The important first step is for those in the "at risk" categories to be tested. In this program we hear first hand accounts of what could happen if the infection remains untreated for many years. This product is manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will apply. |
 |
Home Access Hepatitis C Check 1 ea by Home Access At-Home Telemedicine Test Service for Hepatitis C*. Confidentia |
|
Aids & Hepatitis Digest by Ccm International Ltd Provides information to Air Force comptroller personell relating to mission accomplishment, to assist them in solving problems and improving efficiency of operation and to communicate new developments and techniques | |
 |
The Hepatitis C Help Book, Revised Edition: A Groundbreaking Treatment Program Combining Western and Eastern Medicine for Maximum Wellness and Healing by Misha Ruth Cohen O.M.D. L. Ac. (Author), Robert Gish (Author), Kalia Doner (Author) A fully updated and revised edition of an important health guide, including the latest information on optimum interferon protocol. Hepatitis C has been called "the emergent and preeminent public-health problem of the twenty-first century--surpassing HIV." It has also been dubbed "The Shadow Epidemic," because it is one of the most clandestine of viruses and infects healthy people who have no idea they are being attacked by something they can't even detect. Now, the two experts on Hepatitis C who teamed up to write the first comprehensive guide to orthodox and alternative treatment options have revised and fully updated the book to include recent findings in the field. Along with programs for self-care, nutritional and fitness plans and a comprehensive Western and Chinese medical... |
 |
Native Remedies Liver Doctor and Detox Drops ComboPack by Native Remedies The ComboPack of Liver Dr. and Detox Drops consists of multiple remedies that work well together to provide increased support for your condition. This ComboPack helps to improve liver functioning and aids in detoxifying the system. The Liver Dr. helps to improve liver health and functioning while the Detox Drops assist in the elimination of toxins from the body. |
 |
Understanding Hepatitis Anatomical Chart Laminated (In Stock)-9992PL1.5 by Anatomical Chart Company Defines viral hepatitis and the types of hepatic viruses that cause this disease: Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, and recently discovered viruses G and TTV (Transfusion Transmitted Virus). Talks about modes of tranmission and illustrated the complications of hepatitis. Illustrates the anatomy of the liver, pancreas and surrounding structures, including veins and arteries. Shows 3 liver biopsies: normal, mild hepatitis and moderate. Lists the signs and symptoms which progress by stages. |
 |
Hepatitis C Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad by MyHeritageWear.com The Hepatitis C Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Hepatitis C Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Hepatitis C Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness! |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |