News organizations are reporting the declaration of national public health emergency as case of the Swine Influenza A(H1N1) continue to be reported in the United States. Recent cases identified in Kansas, New York, and Ohio. For the latest information on the Swine Influenza visit http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
Month: April 2009
Google Flu Trends
Epidemiologists use surveillance use sampling data to understand the current and past prevalence of diseases. Hospital charting data, real time case reports, or over-the-counter and prescription medication sales could be used to determine disease patterns. Periodically, during the 2008-09 flu season I have visited the Google Flu Trends website. The site states, “We’ve found that […]
On April 20, 2009 the CDC published Interim Guidance on Infection Control and Antiviral Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed or Suspected Swine Influenza A Virus Infection. The guidelines are written for public health and hospital personnel. There is no specific mention of EMT or Paramedic field contact with patients with suspected or known respiratory illness […]
Important Swine Influenza Information
Today the CDC has been issuing new information and resources about new cases of a swine influenza that was first identified in two children in southern California on April 17. Additional cases have been since confirmed in California and Texas. The same virus has been isolated in patients in Mexico. This CDC MMWR Update advises […]
Virginia has reported a recent cases of the measles. The measles is a severe viral illness with these signs and symptoms during its first stage: fever runny nose redness of the eye(s) cough During the second stage a red blotchy rash appears first on the face and then spreads throughout the body. If you suspect […]
Cyanide exists in many products and the incomplete combustion of certain items such as wood, paper, plastic, and synthetics makes it a very real, potential hazard to those who fight fires. All emergency responders should recognize safety hazards and minimize the risks associated with cyanide poisoning. Signs and symptoms of cyanide poisoning include:
Severe Weather Week
Next week Wisconsin recognizes and prepares for the Spring and Summer severe weather season. The statewide tornado drill is scheduled for April 23. How does your EMS organization prepare for severe weather? A few important things to consider: 1) station standbys during severe weather alerts 2) distribution of agency vehicles in several locations 3) availability […]
Green Work Practices for EMS
Being “Green” is the hip thing to do, but it can also save your organization a lot of money. Is your organization doing these simple things to become more green and save green? Make recycling containers for paper, plastic bottles, and aluminum cans easily available in your stations and office areas. Regularly emptying these containers […]
Level Zero Movie Trailer
Level Zero is a soon to be released paramedic documentary made by paramedic and filmmaker Thaddeus Setla. Check out the trailer and visit the Level Zero website to learn about screening and distribution opportunities. Screening this movie would make a great addition to any EMS conference or event. LEVEL ZERO – Movie Trailer from Thaddeus […]
Moving Patients
I like to use a kitchen chair as an intermediary resting place before moving non-injured patients from the floor back into a recliner, bed or patient cot. Read the full Everyday EMS Tip at EMS1.com