National Fibromyalgia Awareness Day – May 12th!

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects an estimated 6-10 million people in the United States, yet half might not know they have it. In recognition of Fibromyalgia Awareness Day, APF is launching new information, special chats on that day, and other awareness activities, as well as highlighting existing fibro spotlight activities and materials. Click here and join others across the country to raise awareness about fibromyalgia or find out if your pain might be caused by this disorder.

Fibromyaliga sufferers fight pain, misconceptions read article here by Carrie Thompson

H1N1 influenza virus (swine flu)

The recent emergence of a new human-to-human strain of an H1N1 influenza virus (swine flu) has made headlines in recent days. While the disease should be taken seriously, and coordinated efforts are under way to contain its spread, there are simple and common steps you can take to protect your health.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

*Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
*Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
*Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has activated a toll-free swine flu hotline in English and Spanish. Assistance in other languages is also available. The phone number is 1-888-865-0564

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1 May 2009 -- The situation continues to evolve rapidly. Today, 11 countries have officially reported 331 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection.

The United States Government has reported 109 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Mexico has reported 156 confirmed human cases of infection, including nine deaths.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (34), Germany (3), Israel (2), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (3), Spain (13), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (8).

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis. WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

PORK
There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

FAQ

Gripe Porcina, en Español

There are a number of steps consumers can take to protect themselves from the threats posed by Tamiflu drug counterfeiters on the internet. Go here for instructions on: How to recognize counterfeit oseltamivir phosphate. You can also report your suspicions to the FDA's MedWatch program at 1–800–332–1088
If you have any specific questions regarding TAMIFLU contact: Roche Pharmaceuticals Service Center at 1–800–526–6367