"UPDATE 5/23/12: List Of Dog Foods Recalled By FDA To Date Due To Salmonella Contamination" By Rev. Barbara Sexton 'The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross'

courtesy  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303920.htm

courtesy http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303371.htm

Salmonella bacterium (above) 

photo courtesy http://www.salmonellablog.com/salmonella-watch/medical-biology-on-salmonella-infections/

UPDATED: 5/9/12*

UPDATED: 5/14/12**
UPDATED: 5/23/12*** 

********************

                                                        

Dear Ones:

     Here is an succinct and extensive LIST of the dog foods affected by the latest FDA Recall due to suspected Salmonella contamination.  

     Please understand that this list is a 'work-in-progress'.

     I will update it regularly for your convenience and for the well-being of your 'furry loved ones'.

     Be sure to check back frequently and visit the FDA links provided so that the safety of your pet may be assured via vigilance and swift action.

     Do 'err' on the side of caution with any suspected food and SEE YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY if your beloved pet exhibits any signs/symptoms of food-related illness whatsoever.

Thank you and God Bless You,

Rev. Barb

Apex Pet Foods

• Apex Chicken and Rice Dog

CHECK YOUR APEX LOT NUMBERS HERE:
LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303061.htm

********************

Canidae Pet Foods- Diamond Pet Food Gaston

• Canidae Dog, All Life Stages
• Canidae Dog, Chicken Meal & Rice
• Canidae Dog, Lamb Meal & Rice
• Canidae Dog, Platinum

CHECK YOUR CANIDAE LOT NUMBERS HERE:
LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303063.htm

********************

Diamond Pet Foods

• Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Adult Light Formula – dry dog food

CHECK YOUR CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE PET LOVER'S SOUL ADULT LIGHT FORMULA DRY DOG FOOD LOT NUMBERS HERE:
LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302137.htm

********************

Diamond Pet Foods

• Diamond Puppy Formula dry dog food

CHECK YOUR DIAMOND PUPPY FORMULA LOT NUMBERS HERE:
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm302514.htm 

********************

Diamond Pet Foods 

• Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice

CHECK YOUR DIAMOND NATURALS LAMB MEAL & RICE LOT NUMBERS HERE:
LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm299606.htm

********************

Diamond Pet Foods

• Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul
• Country Value
• Diamond
• Diamond Naturals
• Premium Edge
• Professional
• 4Health
• Taste of the Wild

• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Lamb, Rice & Vegetable Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Adult Dog Chicken, Rice & Vegetable Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Mature Dog Chicken, Rice & Egg Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Dog Formulated with Chicken & Vegetables (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Maintenance Cat Chicken & Rice Formula (Best Before December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Super Premium Healthy Weight Cat Formula (December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)
• Kirkland Signature Nature’s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Formula for Dogs (December 9, 2012 through January 31, 2013)

Natural Balance Pet Foods

•  UPDATED 5/14/12** 5 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog UPC# 7-23633-88650-5

CHECK UPDATED 'BEST BY' NATURAL BALANCE SWEET POTATO & VENISON DOG FOOD DATES HERE:

LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303918.htm

• 15 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog UPC# 7-23633-88615-4       

• 28 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Venison Dog UPC# 7-23633-88628-4       

 

• 5 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog UPC# 7-23633-78755-0       

• 15 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog UPC# 7-23633-78715-4       

• 28 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog UPC# 7-23633-78728-4       

• 5 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog UPC# 7-23633-65553-8       

• 15 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog UPC# 7-23633-61718-5       

• 28 LB Natural Balance Sweet Potato & Bison Dog UPC# 7-23633-63031-3       

• 5 LB Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog UPC# 7-23633-80855-2       

Lot Code NBV1201 Best By Date: December 9, 2012

 

 • 28 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Large Breed Bites       

UPC# 7-23633-44443-9       

• 5 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Small Breed Bites       

UPC# 7-23633-42300-7      

• 12.5 LB Natural Balance Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Dog Small Breed Bites UPC# 7-23633-42301-4

UPDATED 5/23/12***

CHECK YOUR NATURAL BALANCE LAMB MEAL & BROWN RICE SMALL BREED BITED HERE:

LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm304917.htm

CHECK YOUR NATURAL BALANCE LOT NUMBERS HERE:

LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303042.htm

 

********************    

Solid Gold Health Products for Pets, Inc. 
UPDATED 5/9/12*

• WolfCub Large Breed Puppy Food
• Solid Gold WolfKing Large Breed Adult Dog

CHECK YOUR SOLID GOLD HEALTH WOLFCUB PUPPY & ADULT DOG FOOD HERE:

LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303371.htm 
 WellPet LLC 

• Wellness Complete Health® Super5Mix® Large Breed Puppy

CHECK YOUR WELLNESS COMPLETE HEALTH Super5Mix HERE: LINK:  http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm303039.htm

 Rev. Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"UPDATED July 20, 2011: FDA: Don't Eat EVERGREEN PRODUCE Brand Alfalfa & Spicy SPROUTS Contaminated With Salmonella Enteritidis in Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota & Washington State" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

 

image courtesy  www.marlerblog.com/case-news/salmonella-outbreaks-and-recalls-nestle-cares-more-about-cats-than-nadine-scharf-president-and-co-ow/

UPDATE July 20, 2011 From Rev. Barb:

On July 1, 2011, Idaho-Evergreen Fresh Sprouts, LLC FINALLY initiated a 'voluntary recall' of its alfalfa and spicy sprouts.

LINK:  www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm261706.htm 

 ------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Readers:

     It is always difficult to 'localize' food-borne illness outbreaks in 'real time'.

     Therefore, although the following alert at present applies 'only' to Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota and Washington State, I urge residents of ALL STATES to take care and STAY AWAY FROM ALFALFA SPROUTS...for the time-being, anyway.

     Hydroponic gardening at it's inception was an innovative 'clean' way to cultivate many foods enjoyed by those concerned with maintaining their good health.

     But the big drawback to hydroponics is that by it's very nature, water tanks used for cultivation are VERY prone to all sorts of microbial contamination.

     In fact, anyone who has ever been engaged in and/or has been responsible for 'water quality/purity/safety' (as I have been in manufacturing plants, labs and certain medical settings) can tell you that WATER is a most gracious 'culture medium' for bad bacteria if ever there was one!

     It's very difficult to keep water in large quantities free of pathogens, especially in cases where a suitable 'preservative system' cannot be employed.

     The fact is that in the alfalfa & spicy sprout situation here, it is reasonable to suggest that the affected sprouts were contaminated at their point of origin.

     At least that's what the FDA believes, while Evergreen Produce begs to differ!

     With all due respect to the small Evergreen Produce company, there is only one way to go and that is to cooperate with the FDA and other federal authorities.  It is the company's 'moral and legal responsibility' to do so and I say this having had years of experience interacting with the FDA in industry.

     Evergreen Produce will have to explain what happened to the FDA and we will stay on top of this story.  Amazingly, the company (Evergreen) is refusing to accept responsibility and to initiate a recall, so for now, the consumer is on his and her own.

     If there ever were a time when the consumer must do the utmost to protect him and herself, this is it!

     It may seem to you that our foodstocks are reportedly becoming more and more contaminated with things like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli spp.  This is NOT your imagination.

     Indeed, over the years the occasional contamination situations have become rather endemic within certain food groups, with a high proportion of both poultry and vegetables being contaminated with Salmonella, for instance.

      It hardly matters how Salmonella 'infected' that first chicken (or that first egg?) and how it managed to invade vegetable cultivation to the person suffering from a bad case of Salmonellosis.

      Still, the study continues and we all must be cautious in our eating habits.

      Personally, I've enjoyed the refreshing taste of sprouts of all kinds, but between this FDA notice and the STEC O104:H4 (E. coli) contamination of sprouts in the EU (a totally different situation and different pathogen, by the way, as I will explain in my next article), I've 'lost my taste' for them...and I hope you have, too...for the time being, anyway, as I said above.

     Check here often and check the FDA 'sprouts link' also: www.foodsafety.gov/keep/types/fruits/sprouts.html

     Coming up shortly at www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com will be a companion piece to this one, where I will explain the specifics from the point-of-view of the CDC, who is also now involved in this alfalfa and spicy sprouts investigation.

     And if you'd like Rev. Barb's FREE NEWSLETTER with pertinent health updates emailed to you, you can sign up below.

God Bless & Keep You

Reverend Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

FDA PRESS RELEASE  

LINK: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm260836.htm

Update June 28, 2011: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are currently a total of 21 reported cases, including 3 hospitalizations, of Salmonella Enteritidis. More information can be found in the CDC press release.

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2011
Media Inquiries: Stephanie Yao, 301-796-0394, stephanie.yao@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

FDA: Do not eat Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts or spicy sproutsSprouts may contain Salmonella Enteritidis; pathogen different from the one in European outbreak

Fast Facts

• The FDA is warning consumers not to eat alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts from plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.”
• The sprouts are possibly linked to 20 reported cases, including one hospitalization, of Salmonella Enteritidis in Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota and Washington State.
• The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness from Salmonella infection.
• Consumers, retailers and others who have alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” should discard them in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them.

What is the Problem? The FDA is advising consumers not to eat Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts and spicy sprouts. The sprouts are possibly linked to 20 reported cases, including one hospitalization, of Salmonella Enteritidis in Idaho, Montana, New Jersey, North Dakota and Washington State. The strain of S. Enteritidis is rarely seen at this frequency.

The pathogen associated with this outbreak is different from the pathogen associated with the outbreak in Europe.

What are the Symptoms of Illness/Injury?
Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, some individuals may require hospitalization from severe diarrhea. Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and then to other body sites. It can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection.

Who is at Risk?The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection. The bacterium can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in these vulnerable populations. Most healthy individuals recover from Salmonella infections within four to seven days without treatment.

What Do Consumers Need To Do? 
Consumers should not eat alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts from plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” Consumers, retailers and others who have sprouts in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.” should throw them away in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them. 

Consumers who think they may have become ill from eating possibly contaminated sprouts should consult their health care providers.

Sprouts are a known source of foodborne illness. Since 1996, there have been at least 30 reported outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with different types of raw and lightly cooked sprouts. Most of these outbreaks were caused by Salmonella and E. coli. The FDA advises that children, the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts of any kind (including alfalfa, clover, radish and mung bean sprouts). To reduce the chance of foodborne illness, FDA advises consumers to cook sprouts thoroughly and to request raw sprouts not be added to your food.

What Does the Product Look Like? The possibly contaminated alfalfa sprouts and spicy sprouts are sold in plastic bags labeled “Evergreen Produce” or “Evergreen Produce Inc.”

The alfalfa sprouts are packaged in 4-ounce and 16-ounce plastic bags with pre-printed labels. They are also packaged in 1-pound and 5-pound plastic bags with stick-on labels.

The spicy sprouts are packaged in 4-ounce plastic bags with pre-printed labels and 1-pound plastic bags with stick-on labels.

Where is it Distributed? To date, the FDA is aware of distribution in Idaho, Montana and Washington State. However, consumers and retailers in neighboring states should check the product label to ensure they are not eating or selling Evergreen Produce brand alfalfa sprouts or spicy sprouts.

What is Being Done about the Problem? FDA is investigating the problem in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health agencies in those states where illnesses have occurred. The investigation is ongoing. The FDA is also working with state authorities to take appropriate action to address any product that may be remaining on the market.

Who Should be Contacted?Consumers with questions about sprout safety should contact 1-800-SAFEFOOD.

The information in this press release reflects the FDA’s best efforts to communicate what it has learned from the manufacturer and the state and local public health agencies involved in the investigation. The agency will update this page as more information becomes available.

For more information:

• Salmonella (CDC)
• Salmonella (FoodSafety.gov)
• Sprouts: What You Should Know 
• LINK: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm260836.htm

Please be careful with these sprouts!
God Bless You
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com 

"Nestlé Purina Dry Cat Food Bags Contaminated With Salmonella Shipped To Colorado, Idaho and Oregon" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

 

Sox and Sam-Healthy, Affectionate & Gentle brothers!

Available for adoption from Friends of Felines LINK: www.adoptapet.org

Dear Fellow Pet-Lovers: 
     It starts off insidiously.  Your beloved pet seems 'sluggish'...and not him or her self.  Then notes of obvious illness appear and you are concerned.
     You must rush your 'baby' to the vet and you may note symptoms as serious as bloody diarrhea and suspect that something 'exotic' is the cause of your pet's distress.
     Yet it could be that the culprit is your pet's 'dry food'.  Even dry food can be fiercely contaminated with pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms, including those produced by the best pet food companies such as Nestle Purina.
     The sad fact is that much of our BASIC food supply is contaminated with microbes such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and all the other 'bad guys' I've been writing about here.
     And since these very foodstuffs are used in pet food as well, it is no surprise that the pet food industry is as 'rift' with food borne disease pathogens as human food is.
     Unfortunately, it is very easy to MISS the recall notices put out by the FDA and other agencies and supermarkets and pet food supply stores are not always as 'current' as they should be in pulling affected lots off the shelves and in notifying consumers.
     So I offer this advice to my dear readers:
1)  Check this link daily if you can so that you can at least 'assure' the safety of the food you and your loved ones consume to at least some degree:  
LINK:   http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/default.htm 
2)  Check in here often at 'Dear Ones Healing Ministry' 
LINK: http://www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com  and sign up for my FREE NEWSLETTER (Details Below) and have alerts mailed directly to your emailbox.
 3) AND MOST OF ALL:  DO NOT FEED YOUR BELOVED ANIMALS ANY FOOD THAT YOU, YOURSELF WOULD NOT CONSUME QUALITY-WISE!  All wise pet-owners READ LABELS and know that 'garbage foodstuffs' are added as ingredients in lower-quality pet food.
4)  If you value your pet's life, choose good quality brands of pet food for them!
     Read about this latest recall here:
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm261072.htm  
Nestlé Purina Recalls Limited Number of Dry Cat Food Bags Due to a Potential Health Risk(Shipped Only to Colorado, Idaho and Oregon)Contact:
Consumer:
800-982-6559
Media:
Jill Winte
314-982-3032  
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 27, 2011 - Nestlé Purina PetCare Company (NPPC) is voluntarily recalling approximately 870 bags of dry cat food shipped to Colorado, Idaho and Oregon. This is being done as a precautionary measure, as the product has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Only the following products with both the "Best By" date and production codes shown are included in this voluntary recall:

Product Name	Bag Size	"Best By" Date & Production Code*	Bag UPC Code
Cat Chow Naturals Dry Cat Foot	6.3 lb.	AUG 2012 10331083 13	17800 11320
Friskies Grillers Blend Dry Cat Food	3.15 lb.	AUG 2012 10381083 06	50000 08450
Friskies Grillers Blend Dry Cat Food	16 lb.	AUG 2012 10381083 06	50000 57578

 *"Best By" Date and Production Code is found on the back or bottom of the bag.

The bags of dry cat food in this recall were distributed in error in February, 2011 to a small number of customers in Colorado, Idaho and Oregon, which may have further distributed the product to other Western states. There have been no consumer complaints and no reports of illness.

No additional Purina cat or dog products are involved. Only products which match the "Best By" date and production codes above are involved.

Consumers who have purchased any of these dry cat food products with these "Best By" Dates and Production Codes should discard it.
Salmonella can affect animals eating the product and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated products. People handling contaminated dry pet food can become infected with Salmonella, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with surfaces exposed to this product. Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.
Pets with Salmonella infections may exhibit decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. If left untreated, pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.
At Nestlé Purina PetCare, the safety and efficacy of our products are our top priority. We apologize for any inconvenience due to this voluntary recall. For further information or to obtain a product refund, please call NPPC toll-free at 1-800-982-6559 weekdays 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, or visit www.purina.com.
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm261072.htm

 "Steinway'- Available for Adoption from Friends of Felines

LINK: www.adoptapet.org

4 1/2 years in 'foster homes' is way too long for this happy, playful, loving energetic little guy.

Won't you take him into your heart and home?

Reverend Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"Skippy Peanut Butter FDA Recall Due To Salmonella" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

Salmonella Patient: http://asal-copas.blogspot.com/2010/08/eggs-recall-because-contaminated.html 

Recalled Skippy Peanut Butter Products

Dear Ones:
     Please pay attention to any and all recalls pertaining to 'Salmonella' contamination of food and food products.
     This hazard is worsening in our food supply.  It started primarily in the egg and poultry industry years ago and has grown exponentially.
     Almost no food product is exempt from potential Salmonella contamination.  Fruits, vegetables and here peanuts (technically a 'legume') as well...and peanut butter.
     I cannot say that I am a major fan of peanut butter, even though it is a nutrient dense food source which many think tastes wonderful.
     Unfortunately, I have observed that peanut and peanut butter allergies are on the rise and are amongst the most 'deadly' of potential allergies one can have.
     Also, there is a direct link between excessive peanut butter consumption (that means daily consumption, or close to it) and development of pancreatic cancer (and liver cancer as well globally). 
     In fact, peanut farm 'workers' and their family members are among the 'hardest hit' when it comes to contracting and suffering from pancreatic cancer which is 'rapidly fatal'. 
     The tragic death of Billy Carter, past President Jimmy Carter's brother, brought the peanut-pancreatic cancer connection to the public's attention.  The Carters were 'peanut-farmers'.
"But in 1988, at the age of 51, he (Billy Carter) succumbed to the same pancreatic cancer which killed his father, his mother, and eventually his two sisters."
LINK: http://www.irememberjfk.com/mt/2008/09/billy_carter.php
      Peanuts are often found to contain 'aflatoxins'.  These alflatoxins are produced by common molds: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus.

courtesy http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/26_11899.htm

LINK: http://www.ehso.com/ehshome/aflatoxin.php
     Aflatoxins affect corn, peanuts, cottonseed and other nuts should be one of the last things the United States consumer should have to worry about.

corn aflatoxin

http://www.dpi.qld.gov.au/26_11899.htm
     Indeed, the FDA modestly 'addresses' this problem:
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/GuidanceDocuments/ChemicalContaminantsandPesticides/ucm077969.htm#afla 
     But the truth is that given the ubiquitous nature of molds and aflatoxin, the truth is that the American  consumer is pretty much on their own when it comes to assuring food safety for themselves and their loved ones.

microscopic image of Aspergillus 1 (pron: ass-per-JILL-us)

courtesy http://www.iaqm.com/toxins.html

     The best one can 'do' is to be sure to shop for peanut butter brands which actually address the issue of bacterial and chemical contamination and then pay the extra amount for 'the better organic brand'.
     As importantly, rotate 'safe' brands, buy smaller amounts and for Heaven's sake do NOT feed your child peanut butter every day if you wish to lessen the chance of them succumbing to any food-related ailments.
     With this latest combination of potential Salmonella contamination as well as the ever-present possibility of aflatoxin presence, please be careful with what you eat.

note: there are many different 'subspecies' of Salmonella

courtesy 

http://genome.wustl.edu/genomes/view/salmonella_enterica_serovar_paratyphi_b/

     Check here regularly for health-preserving information and tips and sign up for my FREE NEWSLETTER (details on the bottom of this page) and receive my alerts in a timely manner.

God Bless You & Your Loved Ones
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
Unilever Announces Recall of Skippy® Reduced Fat Peanut Butter Spread Due to Possible Health Risk Limited Recall of 6 Best-If-Used-By Dates
Media Contact: Anita Larsen 201-894-7760 Consumers: 800-453-3432
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 4, 2011 - Unilever United States, Inc. today announced a limited recall of Skippy® Reduced Fat Creamy Peanut Butter Spread and Skippy® Reduced Fat Super Chunk Peanut Butter Spread, because it may be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No other Skippy® products are affected by this recall.
The product was distributed to retail outlets in Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin.
The affected product, which is packaged in 16.3 oz plastic jars, is as follows:
UPCs: 048001006812 and 048001006782 (located on the side of the jar’s label below the bar code.)
Best-If-Used-By Dates: MAY1612LR1, MAY1712LR1, MAY1812LR1, MAY1912LR1, MAY2012LR1 and MAY2112LR1 (Stamped on the lid of the jar.)
To date, no illnesses related to this issue have been reported.
The recall was initiated as the result of a routine sampling program by the company, which revealed that these finished products may contain the bacteria.
Consumers who have purchased Skippy® Reduced Fat Peanut Butter Spread with the above UPCs and Best-If-Used-By-Dates are urged to discard the product immediately and call the company for a replacement coupon. Consumers can contact the company at 1-800-453-3432, which is operational 24 hours a day, for information on the recall. In addition, a consumer services representative is available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 6:00 PM EST.
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm245897.htm
,

"Drugs We Take & In Our Food Which Affect Our Sexuality" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

courtesy http://www.jellymuffin.com/

Dear Readers:
     You might be asking, "What in Heaven's Name is Rev. Barb talking about here and what do DRUGS and FOOD have to do with SEXUALITY?  And what does SEXUALITY have to do with RELIGION?"
     Well, I'll tell you.  The answer is, "Everything!"
     Just recently on Beliefnet, I wrote a comment referring to the subject at hand.  I want to post it here, along with one of many  'Warning Letter' from the FDA about antibiotics they've found in food.
     In the body, antibiotics tend to act as much as 'hormones' as they do as antibiotics.  When a pregnant or nursing woman is exposed to antibiotics and other drugs, environmental chemicals and 'lifestyle substances like recreational drugs and alcohol', the ENDOCRINE and NERVOUS systems of her child are affected. 
      Every ORGAN and TISSUE in the fetus or baby's body is affected, in fact, and, so--the fetus or baby's 'SEXUALITY' is  ALSO being affected.
     What a child or adult EATS and DRINKS also has a similar effect.  If you've any doubt about the effects of food, drugs or chemicals on the sexuality of the human body, consider the male chronic alcoholic.
     When a male drinks for an extended number of years at a level which his body cannot effectively and efficiently 'clear' (meaning that his LIVER gets overloaded), he will progressively become 'feminized'.
     You see, men and women BOTH make male and female hormones.  Men make androgens PLUS estrogens.  Ordinarily, the male liver 'clears' excess hormones, especially the female hormones of which only so much is needed in the male.  In the chronic alcoholic male, the liver is damaged and overloaded and unable to 'process' the female hormones--which he himself makes--out of his system.
     The result?  Primarily it's a shrinking of the testicles, a growth of breast tissue, loss of face and body hair and a lowering or loss of libido.  This sad state powerfully illustrates the strong influence hormones have on our vitality and health. 
     Just so you know, a similar mechanism exists for chronic marijuana smokers and is why you see certain men develop enlarged breasts to the point that surgical reduction is sought in some cases!
     So here is my Beliefnet piece, followed by exactly the kind of FDA action that occurs all too often:
(I'd just finished saying, "There ARE no Muslim Lesbians!" after a fellow poster challenged me to refer to something written by one (a gay Muslim woman):
Reverend Barbara Sexton

September 14, 2010 10:15 PM
http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2010/09/nyc-cordoba-mosque-built-on-taqiyya-by.html
"Rev. Barb -- isn't that a bit like saying there are no gay Catholics, evangelical Christians, Orthodox Jews, etc.?" Nicole Neroulias said.
You are ONE SMART COOKIE, Nicole. Of COURSE there are gays of ALL religions and among atheists and agnostics, too. I was being FACETIOUS and reminding all that the edicts against 'homosexuality' in Islam and the Quran are MANY and HARSH.
As a biochemist who has studied the SCIENCE of 'homosexuality', I know that the BIGGEST sex organ we have is our BRAIN. And I know that the brains of fetuses are either 'masculinized or feminized' before birth...and then again after birth at puberty. Of course, our sex organs are exposed to these same hormones, as well.
We must also take environmental influences (i.e. antibiotics which act as 'ESTROGENS', both those from our health care providers as well those in the meats some of us eat, for example)into consideration.
I am comfortable saying that people are born with 'one sexual inclination or another or sometimes--both or something in-between'. What we DO with our amazing brains and sexuality is what matters in the eyes of God. Speaking of eyes, the variations of human sexuality are as diverse as all the eye colors humans ever displayed.
Our Creator made us the way we are so that we can have an opportunity to 'have at it' with our 'free will'.
Islam beats the band when it comes to condemning homosexuality in a way I simply cannot abide by. (Conversely, I've no stomach for 'ACT UP IN YOUR FACE' GAY POLITICS.)
Especially distressing to me is seeing lesbian Christian women uplifting and upholding Sharia Law Islam which dictates what a woman may wear, do, believe and think. To my way of thinking, this is a 'human rights' violation of the tenth degree and I do not understand it.
God help me if I can't stand up for my gay family members and other LGBT love ones.
With Love in Christ,
Rev. Barb
LINK: http://blog.beliefnet.com/beliefbeat/2010/09/as-jewish-muslim-celebrations-collide-some-christians-prepare-to-burn-qurans_comments.html
And here's one of many FDA recall/warning letters about 'meat' containing unacceptably high levels of antibiotics.  The public almost never gets to see these and is not generally informed about this routine 'alteration' of our food supply.
Raber View Holstein 9/8/10

Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration
Cincinnati District Office
Central Region
6751 Steger Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45237-3097
Telephone: (513) 679-2700
FAX: (513) 679-2771
September 8, 2010
Via United Parcel Service
WARNING LETTER
CIN-10-127191-22
Mr. Roy L. Raber, Owner
Raber View Holstein
7029 County Road 201
Millersburg, Ohio 44654
Dear Mr. Raber:
On August 3 and 9, 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted an investigation of your dairy operation located at 7029 County Road 201, Millersburg, Ohio. This letter notifies you of the violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the Act) that we found during our investigation of your operation. You can find the Act and its associated regulations on the Internet through links on FDA's web page at www.fda.gov.
We found that you offered for sale an animal for slaughter as food that was adulterated. Under section 402(a)(2)(C)(ii) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(2)(C)(ii), a food is deemed to be adulterated if it bears or contains a new animal drug that is unsafe under section 512 of the Act, 21 U.S.C. 360b. Further, under section 402(a)(4) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(4), a food is deemed to be adulterated if it has been held under insanitary conditions whereby it may have been rendered injurious to health.
Specifically, our investigation revealed that on or about January 7, 2010, you sold a bob veal calf, identified with the auction's backtag #(b)(4), for slaughter as food. On or about January 8, 2010,
(b)(4), slaughtered this animal. United States Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA/FSIS) analysis of tissue samples collected from this animal identified the presence of 0.829 parts per million (ppm) of sulfamethoxazole in the muscle and 0.484 ppm of sulfamethoxazole in the liver. FDA has not established a tolerance for residues of sulfamethoxazole in the edible tissues of cattle. The presence of this drug in edible tissue from this animal in these amounts causes the food to be adulterated within the meaning of section 402(a)(2)(C)(ii) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(2)(C)(ii).
Our investigation also found that you hold animals under conditions that are so inadequate that medicated animals bearing potentially harmful drug residues are likely to enter the food supply. For
example, you failed to maintain treatment records for the animals you produce. Food from animals held under such conditions is adulterated within the meaning of section 402(a)(4) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 342(a)(4).
We also found that you adulterated the new animal drug sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (800 mg/160 mg per tablet). Specifically, our investigation revealed that you did not use sulfamethoxazole
and trimethoprim as directed by its approved labeling. Use of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in this manner is an extralabel use. Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.), Section 530.3(a) (21 C.F.R.530.3(a)).
The extralabel use of approved animal or human drugs in animals is allowed under the Act only if the extralabel use complies with sections 512(a)(4) and (5) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360b(a)(4) and (5), and 21 C.F.R. Part 530, including that the use must be by or on the lawful order of a licensed veterinarian within the context of a valid veterinarian/client/patient relationship.
Our investigation found that you administered the human drug sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablets to a bull calf without following the withdrawal period as stated in the approved labeling or any written directions by a licensed veterinarian. Your extralabel use of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablets was not under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, in violation of 21 C.F.R. 530.11(a); and your extralabel use of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim tablets resulted in an illegal drug residue, in violation of 21 C.F.R. 530.11(c). Because your use of this drug was not in conformance with its approved labeling and did not comply with 21 C.F.R. Part 530, you caused the drug to be unsafe under section 512(a) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360b(a), and adulterated within the meaning of section 501(a)(5) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 351(a)(5).
The above is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of violations. As a producer of animals offered for use as food, you are responsible for ensuring that your overall operation and the food you distribute is in compliance with the law.
You should take prompt action to correct the violations described in this letter and to establish procedures to ensure that these violations do not recur. Failure to do so may result in regulatory action without further notice such as seizure and/or injunction.
You should notify this office in writing of the steps you have taken to bring your firm into compliance with the law within fifteen (15) working days of receiving this letter. Your response should include each step that has been taken or will be taken to correct the violations and prevent their recurrence. If corrective action cannot be completed within fifteen (15) working days of receiving this letter, state the reason for the delay and the time frame within which the corrections will be completed. Please include copies of any available documentation demonstrating that corrections have been made.
Your written response should be sent to Mark E. Parmon, Compliance Officer, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 6751 Steger Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45237. If you have any questions about this letter, please contact Compliance Officer Mark E. Parmon at (513) 679-2700 Ext. 162.
Sincerely yours,
/S/
Teresa C. Thompson
District Director
Cincinnati District
http://www.fda.gov/ICECI/EnforcementActions/WarningLetters/ucm225258.htm
PLEASE TAKE CARE with the health of your family and loved ones.  I recommend purchasing only 'organically raised, free-range' meat.  Those who treat foodstock animals kindly and with minimal use of drugs, etc also happen to produce the safest meat available to consumers.  Mass meat production is cruel, unhealthy and unconscionable.  Just look at the burgeoning Salmonella problem in the poultry industry today.
For you in Christ,
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
http://www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/

'Major Egg Recall Per FDA, CDC, etc. Due To Salmonella in USA' By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

http://rockinthestove.com/2009/07/05/incredible-edible-and-local-eggs/

Dear Readers:
      Not long ago, I alerted you to the plethora of Salmonella-laden MICE and CHICKS intended as food for reptiles.  I alerted you to the important implications that (and all similar Salmonella outbreaks in any animal species) has for HUMAN food and food products...and for all of us.
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2010/08/fda-warns-of-salmonella-risk-from.html
     Recent news indicates that there is a major recall of chicken EGGS due to gross Salmonella contamination. Wright County Egg of Galt, Iowa conducted a nationwide voluntary recall of shell eggs.  LINK: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/enteritidis/       Some 228 million eggs have been recalled due to this recent Salmonella recall and an ongoing investigation is being coordinated by the FDA, CDC, State and Local Depts. of Agriculture and others via an entity known as PulseNet.
      Be assured that although California, Colorado and Minnesota are mentioned, other states must be on alert as well.  Chicken 'farmers' get their 'stock eggs and birds' from MAJOR suppliers and no doubt these distributors are being investigated by the various agencies, too.  The eggs were distributed around the country and packaged under the names Lucerne, Albertson, Mountain Dairy, Ralph's, Boomsma's, Sunshine, Hillandale, Trafficanda, Farm Fresh, Shoreland, Lund, Dutch Farms and Kemp.
LINK: http://www.cdc.gov/pulsenet/whatis.htm  
     But don't be fooled by the numbers, for not all cases have been reported.
     Believe it or not, just as 'humans' can be identified by their DNA, so can eggs and egg-products be identified.  Epidemiologists use this technique to determine the source of and spread of various food-borne infectious agents...a kind of 'CSI' for pathogens.
      An overall perspective for the month of August 2010 can be found at the link below:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/PDF/wk/mm5931.pdf 
     The breaking news reads as:
"Salmonella Enteritidis Outbreak in Shell Eggs
FDA is collaborating with Federal and state partners to investigate a nationwide increase of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) infections. Partners include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and state public health and agriculture officials. Joint FDA/CDC field investigation teams are working to identify potential sources of SE infection in shell eggs."
And here is where you can read more:
www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/WhatsNewinFood/ucm222684.htm
      The usual number of EGGS causing Salmonella illness is up a full FOUR-FOLD for a few months now in certain regions.  This means that we need to be careful with what we eat!
Since May 2010, CDC has identified a nationwide, four-fold increase in the number of SE isolates through PulseNet, the national sub typing network made up of state and local public health laboratories and federal food regulatory laboratories. CDC received reports of approximately 200 SE cases every week during late June and early July. Normally, CDC has received an average of some 50 reports of SE illness each week for the past five years. Many states have also reported increases of this pattern since May 2010.
LINK: (SAME AS ABOVE)  http://www.fda.gov/Food/NewsEvents/WhatsNewinFood/ucm222684.htm   
     Reverend Barb's advice for YOU!:

1. ADVOCATE FOR HUMANE POULTRY  FARMING and persuade producers to treat their birds well, which by definition means caring for their health and well-being, thus producing a better product for YOU!
2. ONLY BUY EGGS FROM PRODUCERS WHO ENGAGE IN  SUCH HUMANE POULTRY FARMING.
3. EXPECT TO PAY A BIT EXTRA FOR THE ABOVE...Well worth it if you value the health of yourself and your families, as well as the health and well-being of God's creatures.
4. INSPECT YOUR EGGS.  Any that are cracked, chipped, broken, off-color or look or smell odd should be placed in a small plastic bag and discarded in the trash.  Do NOT feed suspect eggs to 'pets' or wildlife.  Do NOT COMPOST suspect eggs.  Salmonella thrives in such an environment.  If you know for certain that you have infected eggs, follow the instructions here: http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/enteritidis/
5. CHECK here frequently for Salmonella updates and request my FREE NEWSLETTER in order to get the latest in significant health-related news: mail request to:  BarbaraKSexton@aol.com  
6. CHECK these LINKS yourself to stay up-to-date: http://www.fda.gov/   www.cdc.gov  http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/baildon-hartford/  

God Bless You & Your Loved Ones!
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
http://www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/

'The H1N1 PANDEMIC IS OVER' By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.cdc.gov

Dear Ones:

     You may not have 'caught it' or 'heard it' with all the news of late, but the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Pandemic is now declared to be 'OVER' per the same World Health Organization (WHO), who announced it in the first place--a cause for celebration to be sure.
     It turns out that this pandemic flu variant was NOT the 'Big One' many of us who 'follow these things' feared it might have been. And that's good. But let no one be fooled into thinking that the 2009 H1N1 'bug' has disappeared for good, for it hasn't. What the experts tell us is that it has merely been manifesting itself 'more like the regular seasonal flu' we have learned to live with over the years.
     Where, why and how the 'Swine flu' (a term we health care workers were advised to NOT use) of 2009 settled down is NOT EXACTLY KNOWN, though theories abound. Thus, we must remain vigilant. Here's WHO's 2009 H1N1 link for you check out for yourself: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html  (HEY do I see usage of the word "SWINE" HERE??  But, anyway...)
     My favorite line of the month is one spoken by the Director-General of WHO, who said, "No two pandemics are ever alike". That line is almost as amusing as the one that I have in response to, "When will I see you?". My snappy answer is, "When the poop hits the fan". Of course I only say that when I am fairly certain the someone I am speaking with has a good sense of humor and who can appreciate mine.
     Maybe WHO Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan's quote is more ironic than anything else. Here it is in it's entirety if you are curious: "As I said, pandemics are unpredictable and prone to deliver surprises. No two pandemics are ever alike. This pandemic has turned out to be much more fortunate than what we feared a little over a year ago."   Did she say 'FORTUNATE'?  Why yes she did and here's the link: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2010/h1n1_vpc_20100810/en/index.html
     Sure hundred of millions, if not over a billion, were spent on vaccines for the 2009 H1N1 and 2009 Seasonal Flu. Sure millions of doses were 'dumped' after not being needed and/or as their expiration dating called for it. Some would say last year's vaccination program was one big waste of taxpayer money, but I beg to differ.
     Those of you in lower Fairfield County may have met me at one of the H1N1 Vaccination Clinics. I've been a 'first responder' for many things over the years around here.  I volunteered at the vaccine clinics for some very good reasons.
     Not the least of these was having studied and tracked various communicable diseases since 1964, I feared that 'this could be the one' and so I wanted to be on the 'front lines'. 
     I was the one--who as a gifted and upcoming student--relished being granted access to the 'reactor pool catwalk' at uber-radioactive Brookhaven Lab on Long Island, for Pete's sake.  I don't have the BRAINS to be scared of the kind of 'nerdy things' most people flee from.  My history of 'front line service' is nothing new and if I weren't 'cut out for it', I don't believe I would be here to tell you what I am about to tell you, simple as that.
     I wanted to be able to help from Day 1 if it was a Pandemic we would be facing.  Since I have unique qualifications as a biochemist well-versed in both traditional and alternative biomedicine, I'm kind of useful in many ways.
     And that I am 'clergy', I felt, might make my services even more valuable, God forbid that a full-blown pandemic should break out, with attendant need for comfort and consolation; I know I'm good at that.     
     Pandemic scenario involvement is not for everyone. True, many health care providers are 'mandated' to help out, as are government agency members from certain areas, along with law enforcement, our military and some social service non-profits.
     But the truth is that in disasters, not everyone is a willing volunteer.  Not all can cope and not all who are mandated to serve will do so.  This is where I can honestly say that my faith provides me with the 'inner-strength' I need to do what I do.   
     The best kind of heroes in my mind are the kind who 'actually show up' and who 'do what needs to get done or undone'.  This concept is easy to speak of, but is not so easy to actually witness when a REAL-LIFE situation presents itself.
     Personally, I was grateful to be with those of you I know during our 'H1N1 time of need' and it was marvelous to meet those of you in this area who I didn't know previously, despite the conditions. And no offense, but I hope we never 'meet' like that again, if you know what I mean.  
     I thank God in Heaven that we have the 'Type A influenza subtype H1N1' outcome that we do...meaning that the Pandemic of 2009 is now officially considered to be 'OVER'.  We are all now free to resume worrying about the many other things we are prone to fret about.
     But please, those of you who might be inclined to bemoan a 'waste of money in the 2009 Type A influenza subtype H1N1 Vaccination Program', please DON'T! Ordinarily I would be first amongst us to decry 'medical money waste', but I don't in this case.  Please let me explain.
     Yes, some doses..Alright MANY doses...of H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu-a term we healthcare providers were not supposed to use) vaccine were deemed subpotent.
     Yes, the batches were rushed.
     Yes, expiration dating on many batches were changed and then changed again...to the point of, yes, in some cases 'justifying' the 'throwing out' of so-called 'expired batches' which, truth to tell would never be used and some justification had to be made to throw the stuff out!
(Surely, those of you who receive my FREE NEWSLETTER were kept up-to-date on all of this, with all the bells and whistles and links you could ask for. Sign up by emailing me with your request and your contact information at: BarbaraKSexton@aol.com  )
     Well, I'm here to tell you that the scenario above is in no way all that unusual and it is done in order to help the public be more 'complacent' when it comes to vaccine-production shortages, overstocks, insufficiencies and errors in the 'efficiency and efficacy' of the 'drugs, modalities and treatments' we technical types like to talk so much about.
     What I'm trying to say is that if you believe ANYTHING I've told you so far about the H1N1 Pandemic of 2009, please believe that it was 'money well spent' this last go-round for you and for your family and loved ones. 
     The U.S. government and public and private agencies did their very best to try to keep us all safe at a potentially scary time. Global agencies like WHO, likewise, kept as good control and tracking as they could in this day and age of jetliner travel where pathogens have no borders WHATSOEVER.
     I'm not giving any vaccine manufacturers any passes in general, but in this case I am going light on them, for I believe they did their best. We are grateful that not as many died as could have and we learned a very great deal about dealing with the inevitable 'real' Pandemic (which will likely be an influenza strain, in my opinion) yet to come. We had some real on-the-ground training and all that is very good and very useful.
     Sometimes people ask me, "Where is your congregation?" and I answer, "Right here with you". Usually that conversation is held in a hospital room, at Tully's Day surgery waiting room, amidst a group of grievers or on the streets of Stamford doing whatever God has in store for me.  I just never know.
     Lately, I even might be spotted at a political meeting or two, but I am not the type of 'pastor' that you are likely to WANT to run into, since it will probably be during something unpleasant and you will likely be in need of healing as much as medical and emotional, if not financial help. This is all on my mind right now since I recently wrote about my 'involvement' in Stamford on September 11, 2001 and the next two years afterwards dealing with aftermaths.
     So it seems that it is appropriate to close this piece about the GOOD NEWS that the 2009 H1N1 Pandemic is OVER officially on paper, at least.  But it isn't really and anyone with any sentience at all has the sober realization that that Pandemic is by no means over for everyone.
     It is not over for the loved ones of the 18,449 people (according to WHO, anyway) who died during this pandemic, as confirmed by lab findings. 
     It is not over for those who lost loved ones to the many MORE deaths due to 2009 Influenza A pandemic who died without 'laboratory-testing confirmation'. Look at the chart at the link below.  At least WHO has the compassion to use the term 'at least' when recording 'the of deaths': http://www.who.int/csr/don/2010_08_06/en/index.html  
     Least of all, I cannot imagine that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic will EVER BE OVER for those who lost children to it. Just so you know, the CDC stats covering the pandemic period are for the United States are as follows:
285 2009 H1N1 pediatric deaths
 53 Influenza A-Subtype Unknown pediatric deaths
   3 Seasonal Influenza pediatric deaths
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
341 TOTAL pediatric deaths
for the latest Apr.26, 2009-May 22, 2010 CDC reporting period
next update due Oct, 2010) Link: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/  
     Look at the world 'Death Maps' for the 2009 H1N1 Pandemic and reflect upon how people in more than 214 countries and overseas territories or communities lives were inexorably changed by death and/or illness. And here is the 'CDC' link for you: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ 
      I will not report on how many pediatric deaths there were for the 2009-2010 influenza A/H1N1 season IN THE WORLD, for I cannot come up with what I feel is a valid statistic from any source.  But I do believe that if America lost at least 341 precious children, then the rest of the world lost thousands, least.
     I know my life was changed by the 2009 H1N1 Pandemic, as was yours. I was blessed by those I met and by those I saw so eager to serve their fellows. I saw what's good about us as a society and witnessed the incredible caring that people can manifest for each other--when it counts.
     It's a good thing, too, for none of us is guaranteed anything NEAR safe-passage on this whirling globe of life in the midst of a teeming pool of microbes.  Those little critters--some are destined to SUSTAIN us in this life, like the 4-6 POUNDS of bacteria we carry in our colons every day.  Believe it or not, it is thanks to these same putrid gut bacteria that we go 'dust-to-dust' in a natural setting.  In a most convenient way, our bodies start to decay after death in the 'lower left abdominal area with a greenish-blue hue' indicating efficient bacterial putrefaction.
     Yet other microbes are here to DELIVER US from our earthly life, like flesh-eating bacteria, renegade E.coli species. and smaller yet viruses like the ones which cause influenza and the even smaller yet 'prions' of 'Mad Cow Disease'.
     How we handle this is up to each of us, alone.  That we humans are at risk of infection is no longer up for debate.  But I will give you the 'heads up' that the vaccine for the 2010-2011 flu vaccine will protect against three different flu viruses: an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the H1N1 virus, based on WHO recommendations which our CDC has apparently agreed with: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/1011_vac_selection.htm 
    Just so you know, the H3N2 virus which infects humans is both a bird AND a swine influenza virus. What flavor lollipop do you want?
For you in Christ,
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

My favorite 'Infectious Control Specialists: I seem to remember Dr. Michael Parry of Stamford Hospital likes the 'cream soda' ones best , but I'm not quite sure of Dr. Arthur Yee of Norwalk Hospital's favorite!-Rev. Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com  

WHO Declares End to 2009 H1N1 Influenza Pandemic
On August 10, 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee and the WHO Director-General, Dr. Margaret Chan, declared an end to the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. This declaration was based on strong indications that influenza, worldwide, is transitioning toward seasonal patterns of transmission.
In the majority of countries, out-of-season 2009 H1N1 outbreaks are no longer being observed, and the intensity of 2009 H1N1 influenza virus transmission is lower than that reported during 2009 and early 2010. Members of the Emergency Committee further noted that the 2009 H1N1 viruses will likely continue to circulate for some years to come, taking on the behavior of a seasonal influenza virus.
This does not mean that the H1N1 virus has disappeared. Rather, it means current influenza outbreaks including those primarily caused by the 2009 H1N1 virus, show an intensity similar to that seen during seasonal epidemics. Pandemics, like the viruses that cause them, are unpredictable. WHO noted that continued vigilance is extremely important, and it is likely that the virus will continue to cause serious disease in younger age groups and pregnant women, at least in the immediate post-pandemic period.
The WHO Director-General ended the Public Health Emergency of International Concern in accordance with the International Health Regulations (2005). More information about the WHO declaration is available on the WHO website at http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2010/h1n1_vpc_20100810/en/index.html
Implications for United States
This is a formal WHO declaration regarding the end of the pandemic at the global level. The U.S. Public Health Emergency determination for 2009 H1N1 Influenza expired on June 23, 2010.
The only impact on the United States resulting from the WHO declaration will be a cessation in weekly reporting under the International Health Regulations (IHR) to the Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization. CDC has reported weekly to IHR since early in the pandemic.
There are no changes for the United States in terms of CDC’s recommendations for the upcoming influenza season and the United States is already proceeding with the understanding that the 2009 H1N1 virus is now part of seasonal influenza virus circulation.
As is customary, beginning in October, 2010, CDC will provide weekly reports of influenza surveillance information throughout the season with the publication of FluView available at www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly .
Protecting Yourself and Others from Influenza
CDC recommends a three-step approach to fighting flu: vaccination, everyday preventive actions and the correct use of antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them. The first and most important step in protecting against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season.
The U.S. 2010-2011 influenza vaccine will protect against an H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus, and the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus that caused the first global pandemic in more than 40 years and resulted in substantial illness, hospitalizations and deaths. In the United States, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recently recommended that everyone 6 months of age and older be vaccinated against influenza each season. Pregnant women, young children, and anyone with underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes and neuromuscular diseases are at especially high risk for influenza-related complications and, therefore, should be vaccinated as soon as vaccine becomes available. Vaccine manufacturers are predicting an ample supply of influenza vaccine for the upcoming 2010-2011 U.S. influenza season.
Influenza (the flu) is a serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death. Anyone can get sick from the flu. For more information about influenza and how to protect yourself and your family
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2010/h1n1_vpc_20100810/en/index.html