"A Prayer For All Who Suffer Loss & Mourn In Norway" By Reverend Barbara Sexton 'Dear Ones Healing Ministry'

courtesy www.Watton.org

 

courtesy www.free-animations.co.uk 

Please, pray with me now for family and friends and all affected by the recent explosion and shootings in Norway on July 22, 2011:

Dear Father, we know that you are Lord of all...believers and non-believers, alike. 

Some of us have faith now...and others are yet to be 'gifted' with it.  And sometimes it takes a tragedy like this for us to even begin to contemplate the frailty of our existence.

And so we turn to you in our grief over the Oslo explosion and the Utoya shootings.

We pray that you will help us to accept the unacceptable.

We pray that you will strengthen us to forbear at this time, to render help, to uplift and support those whose loved ones have fallen.

And we ask that you teach each of us, dear God, to be globally compassionate in a way which honors the innocence of the precious lives just taken.

Chasten us to realize how precious life, itself, is...and how, like a candle, it can be snuffed out in a moment.

Teach us discernment, so that we may detect and protect ourselves against those who wish us harm, yet live in harmony despite humanity's many differences.

And, finally we beseech you for peace of heart, for the realization that though the body will decay, the spirit carries on, so that we may learn to make our lives have value and meaning for the short time we walk this earth.

Remind us relentlessly, Father, that love is eternal and that to love we must always turn, no matter the circumstances--

And, so, comfort grieving mothers and fathers and sons and daughters, aunts, uncles, grandparents, brothers and sisters, cousins, extended family, friends and even...pets...left behind at this time in the aftermath of these terrible tragedies.

Surely the world you made for us is big enough that we might all live in harmony!

Do grant us these things, we do humbly pray, O Lord, with tears and fears and trembling hearts as we petition YOU in our individual and universal traditions...

which for Christians is in the Name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit

AMEN

Reverend Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"What's To Blame, What's the Source?- STEC O104:H4 E. coli Update" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

courtesy http://health.foxnews.mobi/quickPage.html?page=31737&content=52429896&pageNum=-1

Dear Ones:
     The last UPDATE I wrote for you was on June 10, 2011.  The eCDC provides daily updates which you can find here anytime:
LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/healthtopics/escherichia_coli/Pages/index.aspx
     Here is a comparison of case numbers for today, June 14, 2011 and for my last update on June 10, 2011:
(Note: there is HUS STEC and non-HUS STEC.  HUS stands for 'Hemolytic-uremic syndrome')

     Number of Cases: Subtotals and Totals of Numbers shown in eCDC data chart below:

                         HUS (d)   non-HUS (d)  Total STEC    (DEATHS)

June 10 2011      795 (22)     2,287 (9)        3,082             (31)

June 14, 2011     818 (23)     2,514 (13)      3,332              (36)

     In other words, in four days, there have been 250 more STEC cases (HUS and non-HUS) in the EU/EEA  and five additional deaths.
     Per the sprouts situation: "The German Authorities have indicated that food items originating from a distinct producer in Lower Saxony (Germany) are the most likely vehicle of the infection. The German Authorities also declared that all food products (e.g. bean sprouts and other vegetables) originating from the mentioned producer in Lower Saxony shall be taken from the market." (June 13, 2011 update)
LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/activities/sciadvice/Lists/ECDC%20Reviews/ECDC_DispForm.aspx?List=512ff74f-77d4-4ad8-b6d6-bf0f23083f30&ID=1109&RootFolder=%2Fen%2Factivities%2Fsciadvice%2FLists%2FECDC%20Reviews 
     Additional information on food concerns can be found here at the EFSA ( European Food Safety Authority, which is like the FDA in the US) site:
LINK:  http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2274.htm 
     At this time, authorities are still trying to determine the exact nature of this E. coli strain, which has characteristics of bacteria found in both humans and animals.
     In the 'vernacular', epidemiologists are trying to figure out 'which came first-the chicken or the egg'.  But no matter what 'morphed' into what, it is evident that this new E. coli type infectious agent is virulent (contagious and capable of causing severe illness) indeed.
The German outbreak strain seems to share virulence characteristics of STEC and EAEC strains. STEC strains usually have an animal reservoir, while EAEC have a human reservoir. Infections in humans caused by similar strains (same serotype, same phylogroup, same MLST type, and with similar virulence gene array) have been reported in the past, and as such, the strain could not be regarded as “new”. However this outbreak strain is rare, and until now it has never been found to be responsible for the rate of infection and severity of disease seen during the current outbreak. Sequence analysis and comparative genomics will be able to show if the outbreak strain is an EAEC that acquired EHEC virulence determinants, or vice versa. The antimicrobial resistance genotype of the outbreak strain, and the molecular typing of the bla_CTX-M-15-containing plasmid, could provide some clues on the epidemiology of this pathogen. 

LINK: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/2274.htm
     The strain responsible for all this illness is RARE, but not unheard of.  
     However, it has never in the past been known to cause SO MUCH DISEASE...and the disease it causes is particularly SEVERE.  This much is known.
     Also, the ORIGIN of the outbreak (what vegetables or other foods are contaminated) is, as yet, not FULLY known.  
     However, lower Saxony sprouts have been singled out as the most likely vehicle of infection and residents are urged to avoid them and if they have them, to throw them away.
     Directives below also indicate that 'earlier recommendations to avoid CUCUMBERS, TOMATOES and LETTUCE from Northern Germany need NOT be upheld anymore.
     However, my suggestion is to 'take care with what you eat', as always, and buy from reliable sources.  And be sure to implement suitable GOOD HYGIENE PRACTICES, which will include washing all vegetables and fruits well and using clean cutting tools and surfaces.
"The German Authorities have indicated that food items originating from a distinct producer in Lower Saxony (Germany) are the most likely vehicle of the infection. The German Authorities also declared that all food products (e.g. bean sprouts and other vegetables) originating from the mentioned producer in Lower Saxony shall be taken from the market.
Additional recommendations from the German Authorities are to adhere to good hygiene practices when handling food or caring for patients and to abstain from eating raw sprouts. Households and gastronomic businesses in Germany should dispose of any sprouts currently in stock as well as any food items that might have come in contact with these. The earlier recommendation from the German Authorities to abstain from eating cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce in northern parts of Germany does not need to be upheld anymore."(http://www.rki.de/cln_151/nn_217400/EN/Home/PM082011.html)
LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/activities/sciadvice/Lists/ECDC%20Reviews/ECDC_DispForm.aspx?List=512ff74f-77d4-4ad8-b6d6-bf0f23083f30&ID=1109&RootFolder=%2Fen%2Factivities%2Fsciadvice%2FLists%2FECDC%20Reviews

Another LINK on food:

http://www.rki.de/cln_151/nn_217400/EN/Home/PM082011.html 
     The only other thing of note this day is that previously, all deaths had occurred in GERMANY and there is now one death in SWEDEN.
     Here are specific numbers in data chart form if you are interested:

"Outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli in Germany (14 June 2011, 11:00) 14 Jun 2011 News since 13 June, 11:00:  In the EU/EEA, 818 HUS cases, including 23 deaths, and 2 514 non-HUS cases, including 13 deaths, have been reported so far (see table for distribution per country). Today, Germany reports one new suspected HUS case and six new non-HUS STEC cases. Number of HUS and non-HUS STEC cases and associated deaths per EU/EEA Member State as of 14 June 11:00: EU Member States reporting cases Number of HUS cases (deaths) Number of non-HUS STEC cases (deaths) Austria 1 (0) 3 (0) Czech Republic 0 (0) 1 (0) Denmark 8 (0) 12 (0) France 0 (0) 2 (0) Germany 782 (22) 2 453 (13) Greece 0 (0) 1 (0) Luxembourg 0 (0) 2 (0) The Netherlands 4 (0) 4 (0) Norway 0 (0) 1 (0) Poland 2 (0) 1 (0) Spain 1 (0) 1 (0) Sweden 17 (1) 30 (0) The United Kingdom 3 (0) 3 (0) Total 818 (23) 2 514 (13) Read more Escherichia coli (E. coli) health topic site: See ECDC risk assessment, list of all epidemiological updates, disease information and case definition." As always, I would urge vigilance in this case.  Please check here often for updates and you may comment/ask questions here or email me at: BarbaraKSexton@aol.com God Bless You Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"STEC O104:H4 E. coli Outbreak Stats For June 3, 2011" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

 

E.coli image courtesy www.foodpoisonjournal.com

 Dear Readers:
     Today, the CDC has announced that there are three cases of STEC O104:H4 in the U.S., presumably in persons who contracted it in Europe, perhaps in Germany.
     As soon as verifiable data is available, I will link you to it.  For now, the main CDC page on this outbreak can be found here:
LINK: http://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2011/ecoliO104/
     Here are some recent statistics from the CDC's counterpart, detailing the STEC O104:H4situation in Europe, which are self-explanatory.
LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/activities/sciadvice/Lists/ECDC%20Reviews/ECDC_DispForm.aspx?List=512ff74f-77d4-4ad8-b6d6-bf0f23083f30&ID=1097

"Outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli in Germany (3 June 2011, 11:00)

03 Jun 2011

On 22 May, Germany reported a significant increase in the number of patients with haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and bloody diarrhoea caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).  Since 2 May 2011, 551 cases of HUS have been reported from European Union Member States, including 520 cases in Germany. See table below. While HUS, caused by STEC infections, is usually observed in children under 5 years of age, in this outbreak the great majority of cases are adults, with more than two-thirds being women. Twelve of the HUS cases in EU Member States have died.  Laboratory results indicate that STEC serogroup O104:H4 (Stx2-positve, eae-negative, hly-negative, ESBL, aat, aggR, aap) is the causative agent. PFGE results shows indistinguishable pattern of 7 human O104:H4 outbreak strains in Germany and 2 strains of O104:H4 in Denmark. The source of the outbreak is under investigation, but contaminated food seems the most likely vehicle of infection. Most cases are from, or have a history of travel to the North of Germany (mainly Schleswig-Holstein, Lower Saxony, North-Rhine-Westphalia and Hamburg). Within the EU, Sweden, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Denmark and Spain have reported cases of HUS, related to the ongoing outbreak. Number of HUS cases and HUS associated deaths per EU Member States as of June 3nd , 11:00 Member States Number of HUS cases Number of death associated Countries reporting cases Denmark 7 0 Germany 520 11 Spain 1 0 Sweden 15 1 The Netherlands 4 0 United Kingdom 3  0 Based on the available information, cases are associated with an exposure in Germany (mainly northern parts). The vehicle of the outbreak has not yet been identified and intensive investigations are ongoing. The results of these investigations will determine the assessment of this risk. Rapid identification of potential cases linked to this outbreak, within Germany or among persons who have travelled to Germany since the beginning of May, is essential to prevent the development of severe disease. STEC is a group of pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains capable of producing Shiga toxins, with the potential to cause severe enteric and systemic disease in humans." LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/activities/sciadvice/Lists/ECDC%20Reviews/ECDC_DispForm.aspx?List=512ff74f-77d4-4ad8-b6d6-bf0f23083f30&ID=1097 God Bless You Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"STEC O104:H4 E. coli (EHEC) Outbreak-Understanding The Terminology" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

E.coli bacteria courtesy http://foodpoisoning.pritzkerlaw.com/archives/cat-e-coli.html

Dear Ones:
     Scientific terminology can be confusing enough as is, but when one considers the various conventions amongst different countries in the world, it can become even more confusing.
     Rest assured that all this 'biomedicalese' is eminently understandable once one understands what each term stands for and without further ado, let me break it down for you.
     When you hear about the 'STEC O104:H4' outbreak in Europe, this same outbreak is called 'E. coli O104:H4' in the Americas and is called an 'EHEC' outbreak in the rest of the world, by organizations such as WHO (the World Health Organization). 
   ---'E. coli' stands for Escherichia coli.  (esh-er-REEK-ee-uh  KOHL-eye)  By convention, Latin names such as this are either italicized or underlined.

---'STEC' stands for "Shiga toxin - producing E. coli". This is what E coli. bacteria are called in Germany.  ---'EHEC' stands for "enterohemorrhagic E. coli". This is what E. coli is called globally by organizations like the WHO.      So, 'STEC' O104:H4 = 'EHEC' O104:H4 = E. coli O104:H4.      Note that it is 'the letter O' (O104:H4) and  not a 'zero" (0104).      There are also spelling differences such as hemolytic-uremic syndrome and haemolytic-uraemic syndrome to consider, but they are both known as 'HUS'.      As far as regulatory agencies are concerned, the U.S. has the CDC  LINK: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/outbreak-notice/2011-germany-europe-e-coli.htm      And the FDA (Food And Drug Administration) LINK: http://www.fda.gov      Europe has the eCDC LINK: http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/healthtopics/escherichia_coli/Pages/index.aspx      And the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) LINK:  http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/110601a.htm      The RKI is the health regulatory agency in Germany. LINK: http://www.rki.de/EN/Home/homepage__node.html?__nnn=true      I hope this clears up some confusion for you.      Unfortunately, whatever we may 'call it', this latest 'STEC' O104 outbreak is ominous, indeed.      Still, with vigilance on the part of consumers and diligence on the part of regulatory agencies, there is no reason why this outbreak cannot be broken down epidemiologically and brought to a halt.      Until then, please be careful. God Keep You & Yours Safe Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross" www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"STEC O104:H4 E. coli Outbreak In Europe: eCDC Stats For June 2, 2011 & What They Mean For You & Your Family" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

eCDC Headquarters 'Tomteboda' http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/Pages/home.aspx

 Dear Readers:

      The eCDC (The European Center For Disease Prevention And Control) has published some new statistics today related to the recent E.coli STEC O104:H4 outbreak attributed to contaminated 'raw vegetables', including cucumbers, tomatoes and lettuce.

      Please exercise care when listening to 'headlines' regarding the number of deaths and illnesses allegedly taking place.

      Make no mistake: this is a horrible infection which is spread very easily and it is deadly.

     However, at the present time, the eCDC, the U.S. CDC and the individual health agencies of the European states are AT ODDS WITH EACH OTHER when it comes to 'NUMBERS of DEATHS and ILLNESS'.

     For background information, be sure to also read the FIRST in my series of articles, for you so that you and your loved ones may be safe during this food crisis: 
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/06/e-coli-outbreak-in-europe-stec-0104h4.html

     It is important to not PANIC in Europe or elsewhere at this time, but do exercise proper food-preparation precautions, and, for now, AVOID ANY AND ALL FOODSTUFFS IMPLICATED IN THIS RECENT STEC O104:H4 OUTBREAK!

     Remember that it is the 'SHIGA-Type Toxin' which causes death and tissue destruction with this STEC O104:H4 outbreak and this toxin cannot be washed away.

     Also, it is impossible to totally disinfect (i.e. wash with soap and water or with water and chlorine) foods such as vegetables.
     Thus, unfortunately for now, the only way to avoid becoming infected with this E. coli species is to AVOID ALL FOODS REPORTED TO BE CONTAMINATED IN EUROPE.

     For those in the U.S., I urge that you maintain a 'high index of suspicion' with fresh vegetables until and unless the situation in Europe is better understood and dealt with.

     Until then, we pray for those at risk at this time that they be safe and be made well.
     Since this is 'reportedly' a strain 'hitherto unseen until now' (which is true outside of academic circles), then the possibility of bioterrorism must be addressed at once by officials!

     As long as 'experts' quibble amongst themselves, the consumer is at risk and must seek their own counsel. 
     If you suspect that you or your family exhibit sign/symptoms of E. coli food-borne disease, wherever you are in the world, get them to a proper health care provider immediately.
     Do not wait, especially with children and infants!
     While this bacteria species is difficult to 'kill', supportive care can be provided and lives saved.
     Remember to keep an eye out for: stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea-bloody or otherwise, nausea, vomiting, weakness, 'feeling sick all over', brain-fog, seizures, urinary/kidney pain and problems, bleeding anywhere, dehydration...and ACT IMMEDIATELY AND GET HELP!

     And be sure to check in here regularly as I attempt to provide you with the very latest advice and VERIFIABLE DATA related to the European STEC O104:H4 outbreak.

God Bless You

Reverend Barbara Sexton 

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
LINK FOR ARTICLE BELOW:
 http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/activities/sciadvice/Lists/ECDC%20Reviews/ECDC_DispForm.aspx?List=512ff74f-77d4-4ad8-b6d6-bf0f23083f30&ID=1096&RootFolder=%2Fen%2Factivities%2Fsciadvice%2FLists%2FECDC%20Reviews

Outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli in Germany Epidemiological update, 2 June 2011, 11:00 On 22 May, Germany reported a significant increase in the number of patients with haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and bloody diarrhoea caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). Since 2 May 2011, 499 cases of HUS have been reported from European Union Member States, including 470 cases in Germany. See table below. While HUS, caused by STEC infections, is usually observed in children under 5 years of age, in this outbreak the great majority of cases are adults, with more than two thirds being women. Ten of the HUS cases have died. Laboratory results indicate that STEC serogroup O104:H4 (Stx2-positve, eae-negative, hly-negative, ESBL, aat, aggR, aap) is the causative agent. PFGE results shows indistinguishable pattern of 7 human O104:H4 outbreak strains in Germany and 2 strains of O104:H4 in Denmark. The source of the outbreak is under investigation, but contaminated food seems the most likely vehicle of infection. There is currently no indication that raw milk or meat is associated with the outbreak. Most cases are from, or have a history of travel to the North of Germany (mainly Schleswig-Holstein, Lower Saxony, North-Rhine-Westphalia and Hamburg). Within the EU, Sweden, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Denmark and Spain have reported cases of HUS, related to the ongoing outbreak. Number of HUS cases and associated deaths per EU Member States as of 2 June 2011, 11:00 Member States Number of HUS cases Number of death associated Countries reporting cases Denmark 7 0 Germany 470 9 Sweden 15 1 The Netherlands 4 0 The United Kingdom 2 0 Spain  1 0 Based on the available information, cases are associated with an exposure in Germany (mainly northern parts). The vehicle of the outbreak has not yet been identified and intensive investigations are ongoing. The results of these investigations will determine the assessment of this risk. Rapid identification of potential cases linked to this outbreak, within Germany or among persons who have travelled to Germany since the beginning of May, is essential to prevent the development of severe disease. STEC is a group of pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains capable of producing Shiga toxins, with the potential to cause severe enteric and systemic disease in humans. Read more Escherichia coli (E.coli) health topic site: See ECDC risk assessment, list of all epidemiological updates, disease information

"INTERNATIONAL UPDATE 4/7/11--Do You Need To Take Potassium Iodide? A Biochemist's Recommendations" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

http://www.whytehouse.com/usa/animation.asp

 www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com

Dear Ones:
     Here is my latest UPDATE for you regarding the need or non-need for potassium iodide tablets/capsules/liquid preparations in view of Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Plant's disaster.
     My entire 'biochemist's perspective', complete advice and recommendations can be found at the link below:
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/03/biochemists-advice-about-potassium.html
     The '4-7-11 UPDATE', itself, found at the bottom of the above detailed article, is as follows, verbatim:
________________________________________________

UPDATED Thurs 4-7-11 By Rev. Barbara Sexton
     With revised and updated traveling restrictions and perimeter restrictions in place, my advice remains pretty much the same regarding the administration of  potassium iodide tablets.
     YES to all visitors to and residents of Japan, as well as for all service members deployed in or near Japan, per their CO's orders.
     NO to residents outside of Japan at this time.
     The EPA and other agencies are monitoring radiation levels in air, food and water in the USA, Europe, Canada and elsewhere.
     Thus far, no major red flags are raised, although some radiation levels are mildly elevated in some samples.
     In my opinion, there is no cause for concern for those outside of Japan at this time.
     Here are some LINKS for you:
WORLD: International Atomic Energy Commission: http://www.iaea.org/
EPA: USA: http://www.epa.gov/radiation/
EUROPE: http://eurdepweb.jrc.ec.europa.eu/PublicEurdepMap/Default.aspx 
CANADA: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/contaminants/radiation/crmn-rcsr/index-eng.php
Mainland US 'Grass Roots' Site: http://www.radiationnetwork.com/index.htm 
Hawaii 'Grass Roots' Site: http://www.radiationnetwork.com/AlaskaHawaii.htm
God Bless & Keep You Safe.  May we all continue to pray for the good peoples of Japan for their continued recovery amidst their pain and grief.
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
http://www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/
UPDATE 4-7-11 end
_________________________________________________

"UPDATE: A Biochemist's Comprehensive INTERNATIONAL LIST Of Triad Alcohol Products Recalled By FDA Due To Bacterial Contamination Concerns" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

Some of the Triad (H & P Industries) Alcohol products recalled due to bacterial contamination

Dear Ones:
     Herewith is an updated international list of all the 'brand names' of TRIAD aka H & P Industries ALCOHOL PADS, SWABS and SWABSTICKS potentially contaminated with Bacillus cereus as of 3/25/11.
     This recall affects Canada, the US and Europe.
     Please check and see if the alcohol prep pads, swabs and swabsticks you may have in your possession have any of the brand names here and DO NOT USE THEM!

Allegiance

Best Choice

Boca

Care One

Conzellin

Cooper Atkins

CVS

Discount Drug Mart

Equaline

Equate

Exchange Select

Exact

Good Neighbor

Good Sense

Healthcare

Healthy Generations

Jean Coutu

Katz Group

Kroger

Leader

Life Brand

Loblaw

Longs

Major

MEIJER

Medicine Shoppe

Moore Medical

Personelle

PharmaChoice

PharmaPlus

Premier Value

PSS Select 

Publix

Premier Value

Quality Choice

Rite Aid

Reli-On

Remedy RX

Rexall

Safeway

Shoppers Drug

Shoppers Drug Mart 

Sunmark Top Care

Triad

Triad Sterile

Ultilet

Uniprix

Up&Up

Valu Plus

VersaPro

Western Family

Walgreens

     Read Triad's (H & P Industries) letter here:
LINK: http://www.triad-group.net/media/pdf/Recal_Facts.pdf

     And this is the FDA LINK for injectable kits affected by this Triad FDA Recall.
     Is your drug listed? (see highlights below)
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm239319.htm

Triad Alcohol Prep Pads, Alcohol Swabs, and Alcohol Swabsticks: Recall Due to Potential Microbial Contamination

[UPDATED 03/23/2011] Eli Lilly and Company notified customers not to use Prep Pads in black starter kits for Forteo [teriparatide (rDNA origin) injection].
[UPDATED 03/09/2011] Smith & Nephew issued a recall of IV PREP Antiseptic Wipes, manufactured for Smith & Nephew by The Triad Group.
[UPDATED 02/11/2011] Triad Alcohol Prep Pads are packaged with devices manufactured by Neuro Resource Group. The Triad alcohol prep pads should not be used.
[UPDATED 02/07/2011] Triad Alcohol Prep Pads are a component of Extavia (interferon beta 1-b) packaging marketed by Novartis. The Triad alcohol prep pads should not be used.
[UPDATED 02/05/2011] Triad Alcohol Prep Pads are a component of a convenience kit distributed with Watson’s Trelstar (triptorelin pamoate for injectable suspension) product. The Triad alcohol prep pads should not be used.
[UPDATED 02/01/2011] FDA reminded healthcare professionals about the safe use of non-sterile alcohol prep pads to clean and disinfect the surface of the skin.
[UPDATED 01/28/2011] Triad Alcohol Prep Pads may have been included in U.S. packaging for Arixtra Starter Kits manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). The Triad alcohol prep pads should not be used.
[UPDATED 01/26/2011] Triad Alcohol Prep Pads are packaged for use with the kit presentation of Relistor (methylnaltrexone bromide) Subcutaneous Injection in the U.S. The Relistor vial and other components of the kit are not affected by the defective Triad alcohol pad. Relistor sold in single vials also is unaffected by this recall. Pfizer and Progenics advise patients using the Relistor kit not to use the Triad alcohol prep pads included in the Relistor packaging for 1 X 7 kits and 1 X 2 starter kits. When preparing to take their Relistor injection, patients should use an alcohol prep pad from a company other than Triad, or use a sterile gauze pad with isopropyl alcohol.
[UPDATED 01/21/2011] Triad alcohol prep pads packaged for use in the U.S. with Betaseron (interferon beta 1-b) should not be used by patients. There is no involvement or potential contamination of the Betaseron vial or other components in the Betaseron U.S. packaging. This issue is confined to the actual Triad alcohol prep products. Triad alcohol prep products are not used in Betaseron packaging outside of the United States. Bayer has halted shipments of Betaseron to its distribution network, until it can affect a replacement for the alcohol prep pad.
Bayer is instructing patients using Betaseron to immediately discontinue using the Triad alcohol prep pads included in the Betaseron packaging and dispose of those pads in the trash. When preparing to take their Betaseron injection, patients should use an alternative alcohol prep pad that is not subject to this Triad recall or use a sterile gauze pad in conjunction with isopropyl alcohol.
[UPDATED 01/14/2011] The Triad Group alcohol prep pads are co-packaged and distributed with Genentech medicines Boniva Injection, Fuzeon, Nutropin A.Q.Pen, Pegasys, and TNKase to customers in the United States. Genentech medicines are not contaminated and may continue to be used in accordance with the package insert. Patients and healthcare providers should not use the alcohol prep pads packaged with these medicines and should instead use an alternate alcohol prep pad that is not involved with the Triad Group recall.
God Bless You
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
http://www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/

"Triad Alcohol Swabs Implicated In Houston Toddler's Meningitis Death" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

LINK:

http://www.khou.com/news/local/Company-recalls-alcohol-swabs-after-toddlers-meningitis-death-116197699.html

Triad Alcohol Products-prep pads, swabs & swabsticks

Dear Ones:

     I've been praying something like this would not have to be written. 
     But there is a possibility that a Houston toddler died as a result of Triad alcohol prep products being used on his recent lumbar surgical incision area after cyst removal surgery.
     And it is, in fact, the tragic story of this youngster Harrison Kothari which may have been the case that triggered the Triad alcohol prep pad and swabstick RECALL I've been writing about here on this blog since January 20, 2011.
     Note: LINKS below are listed chronologically:
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/01/contaminated-alcohol-swabs-recalled-in.html
     Here are some additional follow-up articles:
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/01/genentechinjectables-boniva-fuzeon.html
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/01/now-pfizer-progenics-recalling-relistor.html
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/02/neuro-resource-group-issues-recall-due.html
     Below are the heart-wrenching details of the ordeal parents Sandra and Shanoop Kothari went through with their two year old son Harrison:-
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Company recalls alcohol swabs after Houston toddler's meningitis death "by Leigh Frillici and Courtney Zubowski / 11 News
www.khou.com 
Posted on February 14, 2011 at 6:17 PM
Updated Monday, Feb 14 at 10:46 PM
HOUSTON—Looking at the pictures of 2-year-old Harrison Kothari in his family’s home, you see a smiling, laughing child.
What you’d never know is the little boy had brain surgery a month earlier to remove a benign cyst.
"He was a happy, beautiful 2-year-old boy," said Sandra Kothari, Harrison’s mother. "He loved music, he loved playing with his 7-year-old sister."
Shortly after turning 2, Harrison died during his hospital stay at Children’s Memorial Hermann. At the time, he had a drain inserted in his spine to remove some fluid, and he was set to go home the next day.
"He had healed fabulously," said Shanoop Kothari, Harrison’s father. "He was going to get the drain removed the next day."
That night, the boy developed bacterial meningitis. He died hours later.
The Kotharis believe alcohol swabs made by TRIAD Group, Inc., were to blame. They say the swabs were used to clean their son’s drain. The Kotharis believe the swabs were contaminated with a nasty bacteria called bacillus cereus—more commonly known to cause food poisoning.
"In managing a lumbar drain, they use the swab on the portal," said Jim Perdue, the Kotharis attorney. "And so, it’s pushed in and pulled back out so there is literally an opportunity to have injected this bacillus cereus into the lumbar drain every time they used an alcohol swab."
Triad Group has voluntarily recalled all of its alcohol products. The company also makes alcohol pads and swabs for dozens of other stores, like CVS, Kroger, Safeway and Walgreens.
Perdue says the concerns aren’t just for patients like Harrison, but also for people who use Triad alcohol pads for injections.
They are suing the company."
"It’s a very resistant bacteria (bacillus cereus)," said Perdue. "The body is able to fight it off if you have a healthy person. But when you’re talking about injections for people with M.S. or diabetes and they’re literally using this at the injection site and then puncturing the skin, it can cause some really serious problems."
Houston endocrinologist Dr. Eric Orzeck said if there was in fact contamination, the very young that don’t have as strong as an immune system are particularly at risk.
"When it’s applied to the skin and there’s an open area in which you would use when you’re getting an IV, that can cause a very severe local infection," said Dr. Orzeck.
He says symptoms could develop within 24 hours of using it.　 Those who haven’t seen symptoms past two days are probably OK, Orzeck said.
There are several symptoms the doctor says to keep in mind.
"It might be headaches or difficulty breathing, obviously infection at the site which would be apparent with redness and swelling," he said.
What concerns the Khotaris is that most people haven’t heard of the recall.
"People could have these in their homes, in their bathrooms right now," said Sandra Kothari.
And so as painful as it is to talk about their son, the Kotharis hope that people will remember their little boy and do a simple thing—check their medicine cabinets.
Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital released a statement in response to the tragic news.
"Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital is deeply saddened by the death of any child in our care," it read. "Memorial Hermann was notified of the product recall in January, one month after this child died. At that time, the product was removed from our shelves. We are dedicated to providing the highest standard of quality care and patient safety at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital."
The manufacturer has not responded to an 11 News request for information, but its website states:
"This recall has been initiated due to concerns from a customer about potential contamination of the products with an objectionable organism that may or may not be related to Triad’s manufacture of these products. We are, out of an abundance of caution, recalling these lots and revalidating our production lines…"
LINK: http://www.khou.com/news/local/Company-recalls-alcohol-swabs-after-toddlers-meningitis-death-116197699.html 
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     If you haven't already, you may want to sign up for my FREE NEWSLETTER and get the latest news 'explained' and sent right to your email box.  See details below.
     Please have a 'care and a prayer' for this poor grieving Kothari family as we continue to stay on top of the Triad alcohol product FDA Recall.
     And pray for those who manufacture Triad products and for those who manufacture products co-packaged with Triad brand alcohol products.
     It is a worst fear and a nightmare to know that one may be inadvertently, partly or even completely responsible for a tragedy such as the loss of little Harrison Kothari.
God Grant You His Blessings
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com




Myspace christian Comments

"Neuro Resource Group Issues Recall Due To Potentially Contaminated Triad Alcohol Prep Products" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

Dear Ones:
   Another company, Neuro Resource Group, has issued a recall of it's medical devices which are co-packaged with Triad brand alcohol prep pads, alcohol swabs and alchohol swabsticks.
     According to Neuro Resource Group's website:
"Neuro Resource Group (NRG) specializes in the development, design and manufacture of innovative medical products for injury management, rehabilitation, and pain management. The Company's management team has extensive experience in the healthcare industry and is committed to providing products and developing training materials and protocols that help to improve the quality of patient's lives and also enhance athletic performance on both a professional and non-professional level."
LINK: http://www.nrg-unlimited.com/index.php/about-nrg.html 

     NRG's medical devices for CONSUMERS include:  

http://www.nrg-unlimited.com/index.php/interx-devices-for-patients.html 

Single Patient Systems: A range of body specific Conductive Garments for home use and

http://www.nrg-unlimited.com/index.php/interx-devices-for-patients.html 

Single Patient Systems: A range of body specific Conductive Garments for home use

(Health Care Professionals, see photos of Professional Devices below)
    

     It is important that everyone NOT USE any TRIAD ALCOHOL PREP PRODUCTS which can be identified by either “Triad Group,” listed as the manufacturer, or the products which are manufactured for a third party and use the names listed below in their packaging:
LINK: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm242736.htm

Cardinal Health

PSS Select

VersaPro

Boca/ Ultilet

Moore Medical

Walgreens

CVS

Conzellin
Select
Select Medical Products
PSS Select
PSS World Medical, Inc

     Please note that these Triad alcohol prep products were distributed in the UNITED STATES, CANADA and EUROPE.
     Below is the information on the FDA site:
Informs Customers of Important Information
about Triad Group's Alcohol Prep Pads
Contact:
Sarah Magee
972-665-1810 X231
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 7, 2011 -Neuro Resource Group, Inc. (NRG) has become aware of the market recall of Triad Group's alcohol prep pads, alcohol swabs, and alcohol swabsticks manufactured by Triad in the United States and marketed under various brand names, http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm239219.htm9 . The Triad Group alcohol prep pads are co-packaged and distributed with NRG devices to customers in the United States and internationally.


According to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Medwatch communication, the recall was initiated due to concerns about potential contamination of the Triad Group's products with the bacteria, Bacillus cereus. This recall involves those products marked as sterile as well as non-sterile. Use of contaminated alcohol prep pads, alcohol swabs, and alcohol swabsticks could lead to life-threatening infections, especially in at-risk populations, including immune suppressed and surgical patients. The Triad wipes may also be labeled “Select”; “Select Medical Products”; “PSS Select”, or “PSS World Medical, Inc.” The subject Triad/Select alcohol wipes previously provided with NRG devices should be discarded immediately. NRG is currently providing alcohol wipes that are not subject to recall.


It is important to note, that NRG devices are not contaminated and may continue to be used in accordance with the instructions for use. The alcohol wipes were provided strictly as a cleaning convenience. Patients and healthcare providers should not use the Triad/Select alcohol prep pads packaged with these devices and should instead use an alternate alcohol prep pad that is not involved with the Triad Group recall, or alternatively use a gauze or tissue pad in conjunction with 70% isopropyl alcohol for cleaning. For replacement wipes, customers may contact NRG customer service at 1-877-314-6500.

The company plans to issue a letter to customers to make them aware of the Triad product recall and the need to discontinue use of the Triad alcohol prep pads packaged with NRG products. Further information about the Triad Group recall can be found on the FDA website at: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm239319 .htm10.

Patients should consult their healthcare provider for further information. Healthcare providers with questions may contact NRG Customer Service at 1-877-314-6500 between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm Central Time."

     Please take care if you use these devices. DO NOT USE any TRIAD ALCOHOL PRODUCTS packaged with them.

God Bless You

Reverend Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

http://www.dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/

NRG Products Images for Professionals:

The InterX 5002

http://www.nrg-unlimited.com/index.php/the-interx-professional-devices.html 

and

InterX Professional Sport

http://www.nrg-unlimited.com/index.php/the-interx-professional-devices.html