"Happy 'Rare Disease Day' To All" By Rev. Barbara Sexton Dear Ones Healing Ministry

 courtesy http://christ-image-jesus.blogspot.com/

Dear Ones:

     It's not 'fun' and it's not 'popular'.  But here I am to tell you about 'Rare Disease Day 29 February 2012'.

     Yes, this is the day where 'the powers that be' turn their attentions to 'orphan' diseases...and to those conditions which can make life miserable, but which affect only the 'few' and thus receive scant attention:
LINK: http://www.rarediseaseday.org/country/us/united-states 
LINK: http://rarediseaseday.us/ 
LINK: http://www.rarediseaseday.org/country/us/united-states 

     This is a 'global effort', as it should be for the kind of things that affect ALL humans, regardless of where they happen to be on the globe.
     Can there be any doubt that ALL peoples of 'good faith' wish nothing but the 'best' and 'the best of care' for those in need?
     Certainly not!

     So, if you are suffering from (or are the love one of) a 'rare disease', you are keenly aware of what this 'leap year day' of February 29, 2012 means.

     It means that you are not forgotten.  It means that you can rest assured there are those who care.  You can know that there definitely ARE researchers and others who have your interests at heart.

     And, most of all, it means you have HOPE for a cure, and if not cure, for a treatment..and if not a treatment, then the hope of a 'prevention'.

     In this spirit of communal compassion, I ask that each of you reading this takes the time to realize that, truly, 'there but for the grace of God, go each of ourselves and our loved ones'.

     Today is a day to appreciate the gains of modern science, while understanding and being grateful for our Creator who loves us so much.

     God made us His magnificent creation!  Let us remember--today and all days--to never take His gift of life to us for granted.

     And never let us forget that, as Christians, when we pray in the powerful name of Jesus Christ...

     ALL things are possible!

In Christ's Name, 

Rev. Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

"A Biochemist's Natural & Traditional Recommendations For 'OCCUPY' Lice Outbreak Sufferers" By Rev. Barbara Sexton 'Dear Ones Healing Ministry'

 

Pubic lice infesting the eyelash

 courtesy: http://www.lindane.com/scabiesandlice/perspective/

WATCH THIS ON YOUTUBE: http://youtu.be/C5ypeLuKnLg
Dear Ones:
     Okay.  So as I predicted in a previous article, LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/2011/10/occupy-protesters-face-many-disease.html   "Occupy Portland" protesters have discovered 'x' number of head and body lice 'cases'.
LINK: http://outbreaknews.com/2011/11/07/occupy-portland-reports-lice-outbreak/
     THIS IS NO BIG DEAL...but it must be dealt with SWIFTLY if these pesky critters are to be eradicated!
     Lice and their eggs, known as 'nits', are NOT the end of the world, but they are unpleasant and require vigilance.
     Not surprisingly, any and all persons IN CLOSE QUARTERS can easily become infested, especially when items are shared.
     Any parent knows, for instance, that head lice can become a major problem in grade-school classrooms as children 'rough and tumble' and share hats, etc. during playtime.
     And all homeless shelter facilities...and military encampment areas, for that matter...also run the risk of becoming 'overrun' with lice if things aren't dealt with quickly.
     So here's what you must know and do NOW if you are an OCCUPY Protester anywhere:

1)  Understand that head/body/public lice can live ANYWHERE on the body.  In other words, body lice can be found on the head, etc.  These little guys just want to live, eat and reproduce and they don't care if it's on your eyebrows, under your armpits or behind your ears or anywhere else for that matter.  Particularly 'hairy' people can harbor an infestation EVERYWHERE, in fact, and certainly not just on their heads.  But if there is a doubt as to exactly what type of lice you may have, a health care provider can identify them for you and prescribe the exact remedy that you need.  Please note: most over-the-counter preparations are quite effective when used as directed.  Also note that shaving/cutting the hair ALONE will NOT rid one of a lice infestation.

2)  Lice infestation is not necessarily a reflection of poor hygiene, believe it or not.  All it takes is 'person-to-person' contact and/or sharing of clothes and other items for transmission to occur.  On the other hand, I have personally seen homeless individuals so loaded with lice that their very BEARDS--at first appearing to be 'gray and grizzled'--were actually TEEMING with what are known as 'cooties' aka lice aka 'crabs'.  Not a pleasant sight at all.  I've also seen 'eyebrows wiggle', which upon closer inspection proved to be also crawling with lice--such is the reality of life with homeless and other disenfranchised persons.

3)  There is only one way to eliminate a lice infestation in a camp, classroom, shelter or barracks: All persons must be treated with a commercial lice preparation.  'Nix', which is 1% permethrin is a good one.  Malathion 0.5% in IPA (isopropyl alcohol) is also approved by the FDA for tough head lice cases, but it can cause significant side effects.  After treatment, make sure that any remaining 'nits' sticking to their hair shafts ANYWHERE ON THEIR BODIES are removed manually with a 'nit-picking' comb.  Liquid detergents and certain 'waxy' substances and hair-care products can help dissolve the 'cement' that holds the nits in place on the hair shaft.  Finally, any and all clothing/bedding/etc must be decontaminated by dry-cleaning, or by sealing it all in a plastic bag for a period of at least two weeks (to effectively let the lice die off) or via some heat and/or chemical treatment.  LINK: http://www.oakgov.com/health/assets/Documents/fs_headlice.pdf  A last resort is 'burning', which would be very dangerous and illegal if done without proper facilities and authorization.
LINK: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001843/ 

Abscess From Head Lice 

courtesy: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/slideshow_head_lice/article_em.htm

     Probably the only other caveat I would add here is that should an individual prove to be sensitive to lice attachment to the skin, it is possible for a type of 'dermatitis' (skin irritation, redness and itching) to occur.  Usually this can be relieved (after the person is relieved of his or her lice infestation) with a simple anti-itch preparation...again, something your personal health care provider can recommend.  Over-the-counter products would include things like calamine and/or caladryl (benadryl) lotion.  Consult with your pharmacist for these.
     On rare occasions, skin that is degraded by lice infestation can become infected by any offending pathogens that it might be exposed to.
     In the event of a secondary infection due to lice infestation and eradication, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of getting prompt medical help!
     It is rare, but there is always the possibility that some type of regular Staphylococcus (which is found everywhere all over our skins) or a more dangerous strain of Staph, such as MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) LINK: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0004520/ or  Streptococcus species ('flesh-eating disease' aka 'necrotizing fasciitis' (pronounced: NECK-crow-TYE-zing FASH-EE-EYE-TUS)  LINK: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002415/ could take hold.
     You don't want these.
     So, once again, if you have any SKIN INFECTION...'skip' the 'medic tent' and head to a professional health care provider pronto!
     From a 'natural standpoint', a dilute solution of essential oils of cedarwood/lavender/eucalyptus in water (two dropperfuls each in a pint of water in a spray bottle) makes a good anti-insect spray for non-skin surfaces.  (DO NOT SPRAY THIS DIRECTLY ON THE BODY OR IN THE EYES, ESPECIALLY)
     Finally, Kiehl's ORIGINAL MUSK Blend No. 1 Eau De Toilette, when worn with no other scents, is pretty good at keeping biting and flying insects and spiders off the body.
     During  warm weather I routinely spray my arms and lower legs with this Kiehl's and it does the trick for me.  So you might want to try it if you find yourself threatened by lice re-infestation when you're 'trying to keep your distance' and exercising all other common sense precautions like not sharing hats, etc.
     As with all 'natural, essential oils' and perfume products, be sure to discontinue use if signs of allergic reaction appear after application of what I have suggested here.
     So, go with God, oh 'relentless OCCUPIERS'.
     I'm still trying to understand a number of things that 'OCCUPY' supposedly represents.  I still don't have a clear view of who and what you are.
     Nevertheless, I present this in 'good faith' as I pray that 'lice' is the worst of it for you.
     I pray that no major medical outbreaks or other serious events in your 'camps' ever manifest...
     And I pray for peace in this world.
In Christ,
Rev. Barbara Sexton 
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

Image of head lice infestation showing hair strands covered in “nits” or eggs. Severe itching and scratching can lead to bacterial infection and clumping of hair from fluid that weeps from the infected area.                

courtesy:  http://www.lindane.com/scabiesandlice/incidence/

"OCCUPY WALL STREET' Protesters Face Many Disease & Sanitation Challenges: A Biochemist Explains Them All" By Rev. Barbara Sexton 'Dear Ones Healing Ministry'

courtesy: http://www.cdc.gov/mrsa/mrsa_initiative/skin_infection/mrsa_photo_007.html

Dear Ones:

     There are a number of health concerns that the "OCCUPY" protesters, their supporters/visitors/sight-seers, law enforcement, public health and all who have contact with their 'camps' and 'campers' should be aware of.
     You may want to read my article series on the risks of TSA 'pat-downs' at airports as a 'primer' of sorts, to get yourself acquainted with what one needs to be on the 'look-out' for in tight quarters, especially when there is person-to-person contact.
LINK: http://dearoneshealingministry.blogspot.com/p/tsa-pat-down-page-by-reverend-barbara.html
     As bad as the unsanitary conditions of TSA 'pat-down' areas are, the conditions "OCCUPY" campsights are infinitely worse.
    Essentially, what we have with these protesters is minimal and ineffective sanitation coupled with poor or non-existent medical care.
     "OCCUPY" areas are, in many cases, merely 'outdoor homeless shelters' run (for the most part) by those who may or may not have the professional training to do so...And who, even if they do have such training are, according to most news reports, woefully lacking in adequate supplies and back-up.
     "OCCUPY" encampments all over lack adequate sheltering materials, not to mention toilet facilities, heat and refrigeration.
     Most important of all, many of these "OCCUPY" camps lack the capability to address what even the BEST legitimate 'non-profit homeless shelters' have difficulty adequately handling, which is: mental illness, substance abuse and what is known as 'dual-diagnosis' (mental illness combined with substance abuse of some sort.)
     I offer here no remediation other than the obvious, but rather an impartial, apolitical list of 'things to consider' for my fellow human beings at this time in history.
     As a 'homeless advocate' for three decades, and as a health care professional well-versed in 'disaster and emergency preparedness' and 'epidemiology', I have a great understanding about what is necessary for the safe and sanitary administration of emergency housing for men, women and pregnant women and women and children.

 courtesy www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/body/

     Let me state simply that "OCCUPY" protesters and others involved with persons involved in this movement, have a great number of sanitation, health, wellness and environmental concerns to contend with.
     There are 'human factors' (i.e. acts of violence/man-made disasters) and natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and the like), as well.
     Who does "OCCUPY" call in the event of crimes of assault and rape?  Who will they 'turn to' if a storm strikes or a diarrheal disease breaks out in the camp?

courtesy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Mrsa_cyst_exploded.jpg

     Many of the 'illnesses and diseases' listed below are reasonably easy to avoid and eradicate nowadays using simple methods of 'good hygiene', camp cleanliness...and impeccable professional medical care at the first sign of trouble.
     I'm not sure that "OCCUPY" camps can make the grade, even if and when everyone involved are brought into the mix for the 'betterment of all'.  Human nature just does not work that way and we will always have those who, for one reason or other, are 'marginalized'.
     What I see is that the "OCCUPY" 'tent cities' will likely go the way of most 'tent cities'.
      The cold-hard fact is that an 'urban OCCUPY protester' eating his or her 'designer poached salmon donation' with a working 'grey water' project at their feet will fare no better than a natural disaster victim across the world eating a WHO rations reconstituted with donated clean water.

     In fact, camp refugees overseas may well get superior medical and other care if relief workers can get to them and they accepts their offers.

     Oh, human pathogens are 'great equalizers' indeed.

 courtesy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smallpox

     Diseases we used to 'be protected from' are quite mobile, thanks to jet travel.  Diseases, such as smallpox, once believed to be have been 'wiped out' due to worldwide immunization, may not have been...And "OCCUPY" campers must consider whether their close-quarters' 'neighbors' have or have not been immunized against certain pathogens.

     My best advice is this: don't rule anything in the following lists IN or OUT if you are feeling ill after having attended an "OCCUPY" event, and visit your health care professional IMMEDIATELY if something doesn't feel right.

     Parents: if you 'visit' an "OCCUPY" campsite or live in one, I beg you to consider the health and well-being of your children.

     Children, like the elderly and those who are immuno-compromised, are at greater risk when it comes to illness, disease and exposure to extremes of temperature, both heat and cold.

     For "OCCUPIERS" and others of all ages, here's your 'list' of things to watch out for.

     It's not necessarily 'fully inclusive' and will be updated as necessary.

1)  Used/exchanged clothing, bedding, sleeping bags, towels, wash-clothes, anything of cloth (especially when 'damp' or wet) can transmit:

• bed bugs
• lice ('crabs')-head/armpit/body/pubic areas
• fleas
• scabies (mites)
• ringworm (a fungus, not a 'worm'!)
• MRSA 'Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus' (a bad 'staph' skin infection)
• Molluscum contagiosum (a virus)
• molds of all types
• mildew
• roaches (potential hitch-hikers in anything made of cloth or paper)

2)  Used/Exchanged personal items, razors, utensils, plates, cups, shared childrens' toys, toothbrushes, 'surfaces', used and improperly disposed of bandages, dressings, tampons, sanitary pads, condoms, toilet paper, cigarette butts and all items contaminated with blood, semen, saliva, sputum, feces or any other bodily secretions have the potential to transmit:

• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C
• viral hemorrhagic fevers
• Salmonella
• E. coli
• HIV/AIDS
• influenza
• SARS
• bacterial infections

3)  Improperly cooked/handled/heated/stored/prepared food can transmit:

• Campylobacter
• Salmonella
• E. coli O157:H7
• Calicivirus or Norwalk-like virus
• Listeria
• Shigella
• Hepatitis
• Giardia lamblia
• Cryptosporidia
• Clostridium botulinum 
• link: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/foodborneinfections_g.htm#mostcommon
• Rat bite fever link: http://www.cdc.gov/rat-bite-fever/
• Yersiniosis
• diarrhea
• nausea
• skin rashes

4) Poor hygiene can encourage:

• vaginitis ('yeast infection')
• bacterial vaginitis ('vaginosis')
• toxic shock syndrome
• bladder infection
• jock itch
• athlete's foot
• folliculitis (infection of the hair follicles)
• furuncles (boils)
• Necrotizing Fasciitis ('Flesh eating disease) due to Streptococcus pyogenes
• blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) complicated by bacterial infection
• warts
• flea infestation complications
• lice (head/body/pubic) complications
• scabies (mites)

5) Person-to-Person contact, especially when combined with poor hygiene, can transmit:

• gonorrhea
• syphilis
• vaginitis
• jock itch
• anal abscess
• scabies
• fleas
• lice
• furuncle (boil)
• carbuncle (group of furuncles)
• impetigo
• genital warts
• herpes
• viruses
• influenza
• bacteria
• tuberculosis (via a TB patient coughing, sneezing, speaking or singing) link: http://www.cdc.gov/tb/topic/basics/default.htm

6)  Wounds, punctures, lacerations, abrasions improperly or not treated can cause:

• tetanus
• bacterial, viral, protozoan infections
• many diseases included here
• sepsis
• amputation

7a)  Mice in camp can transmit:

• Salmonella
• Ratbite fever
• dermatitis
• Favus
• tapeworm
• Lyme disease
• Tularemia
• Leptospirosis
• Lymphocytic choriomeningitis
• Hantavirus
• Rickettsialpox

7b)  Rats in camp can transmit:

• rabies
• plague
• Salmonella
• Tularemia 
• rat bite fever (Streptobacillus moniliformis North America, Spirillum minus Asia)
• other infections (due to bites, droppings)

8)   Insects in camp can transmit:

• West Nile virus (mosquitoes)
• Eastern Equine virus (mosquitoes)
• Lyme's disease (ticks)
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever (ticks)
• malaria (mosquitoes)
• Tick-Borne Relapsing fever (ticks)
• MRSA (Brown recluse spider bites)
• dermatitis-like skin conditions-intense itching with and without secondary infections

9)  Contaminated water for drinking, bathing, recycling (when some gets into eyes/nose/body orifices/is accidentally swallowed, etc) can transmit:

• Amebiasis   
  
• Buruli Ulcer
• Campylobacter
• Cholera
• Cryptosporidiosis
• Cyclosporiasis
• Dracunculiasis (guinea-worm disease)
  
• Escherichia coli
• Fascioliasis
• Giardiasis
• Hepatitis
• Leptospirosis
• Norovirus
• Rotavirus
• Salmonella
• Schistosomiasis
• Shigellosis
• Typhoid Fever
• viruses, bacteria, protozoans and parasites ('worms') of all sorts
• Botulism
• Dysentery (Shigella and/or Salmonella)
• Legionnaire's Disease (caused by Legionella)
• 'Swimmers Ear' (Otitis externa)
• Vibrio illness 
• Adenovirus
• Ascariasis (roundworms)
• Echinococcosis (caused by tapeworm larvae)
• Enterobiasis (pin worms)
• Fasciolopsis 
• Gastroenteritis
• Hymenolepiasis (dwarf tapeworm)
• Microsporidiosis (Protozoan)
• SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
• Hepatitis A
• Polio (rare overall, but found in US, esp in CA, TX & PA http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/stats-surv/vasp/default.htm
• Polyomavirus infection ( JC and BK variants)
• Taeniasis
• Brain-eating Amoeba (Naegleria fowleri-rare-enters through the nose, to the brain)  link: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/faqs.html 
• Rat bit fever link:  http://www.cdc.gov/rat-bite-fever/ 

10)  Dogs, cats, other pets improperly vaccinated and cared for medically can transmit the following to humans, especially those living in close, unsanitary quarters:

• Bartonella ('Cat Scratch Disease')
• Dog and Cat Flea Tapeworm (Dipylidium Infection)
• Giardia
• Leptospirosis (from dogs)
• Mange (rarely, from dogs)
• MRSA (dogs, cats)
• Plague (cats, dogs bitten by infected fleas)
• Rabies (dogs, cats)
• Ringworm (dogs, cats)
• Sporotrichosis (dogs, cats--a fungus)
• Toxocara infection (roundworms from dogs, cats)
• Toxoplasmosis (protozoan in cats)
• Yersiniosis (usually from pigs, but from dogs and cats, too)
• other infections (due to bites, scratches)

11)  Environmental factors can elicit"

• hypothermia/frostbite (cold)
• hyperthermia/heat stroke (heat)
• sunburn/burns/skin cancer (sun exposure)
• dehydration (heat, usually)
• electrolyte imbalance (heat and dehydration)
• trench foot (immersion in water, lack of sock change/foot hygiene)
• asthma/lung/'breathing' issues (dust, 'mites' in bedding & clothes, perfumes/oils, cleaning solutions, roach dropping inhalation, second hand smoke, candle smoke, incense)
• skin rashes/dermatitis (scabies ('mites'), molds, mildews due to rotted food, reused clothing/bedding, allergies to plastics used as 'tarps', etc, DEET allergies, scented baby wipes, perfume allergies, smoke allergies (facial rash usually, swelling), incense allergy (exposed skin 'itches'), second hand smoke, etc
• vaginitis (women be careful with different brands of sanitary products)
• hives (full body) ( something ingested or grossly exposed to-check for food allergies and be careful with 'donated' skin care products such as lotions, powders, sprays, make-up)
• anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction to something exposed to and/or ingested)

     It is very difficult to live with minimal creature comforts, especially when the weather (and other factors) are against you.

     Winter is coming and the flu season is here.  Cold is a 'stressor' which taxes the immune system, thereby weakening it.

     Having the 'flu' in an urban 'tent city' will be no picnic.

     Influenza readily turns into pneumonia when conditions are poor and a person is not receiving adequate food, rest and relief from the elements.

     Also, please note that 'strep throat' (due to Streptococcus bacteria) is extremely common and spreads like 'wildfire' in contained areas when food and water are shared...presenting as yet another thing for "OCCUPY" campers to be on the look-out for.

     A 'strep throat' can turn into life-threatening 'Scarlet Fever' very quickly, so if you have a sore throat and notice a head/neck/chest red rash, get medical help IMMEDIATELY.

     Remember that the 'fecal-oral' route is responsible for many bad 'infections' such as those caused by E. coli.

     So, as much as possible....wash, wash and wash again with soap and water after using the bathroom and whenever you can, all "OCCUPY" participants!

     Don't depend on 'hand gels' or 'baby wipes', alone, in lieu of showering.

     Also, when you use hand gels or (even better in my opinion70% isopropyl alcohol), do not wipe/shake-off the 'excess'.

     Let things 'air dry' for maximum effectiveness of these sanitizers.

     Any comments/questions can be directed here (below) or to BarbaraKSexton@aol.com

God Bless & Keep You

Rev. Barbara Sexton

"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

courtesy www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5524a3.htm

"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

"E. coli Outbreak in Europe-STEC O104:H4-What It Means For You & Your Family" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

 courtesy: http://lci.tf1.fr/lexique/concombres-contamines-ce-qu-il-faut-savoir-6510062.html
UPDATE: 6/1/11  Be careful with what you hear on the news.  There are conflicting reports from various reporting agencies regarding either an increase or decrease in numbers of deaths and illness in the form of HUS from STEC O104:H4.  Reports thus far have been from 'unidentified and/or unsubstantiated sources' (and in the case of two alleged U.S. deaths from 'unidentified state sources).  Rest assured that once verifiable scientific data is available, Rev. Barbara Sexton will provide you with LINKS and  the most accurate information possible, along with her unique 'translation of the biomedicalese' for those who wish to understand it all.  Stay tuned.
_________________________________________________________ 
Dear Readers:

     There is a serious situation in Europe today regarding a great number of illnesses and deaths attributed to an  E. coli bacteria.

     By now you've read enough to know that there are many specifics 'types' of  E. coli bacteria, some more infectious than others.  
     The strain under consideration here is extremely RARE and has not, to date, been found in the United States.

     A recent CDC statement can be found below, which I will break down for you as best as I can.

     Please also 'click on' keywords below of interest to you for additional articles I have written to help you keep yourselves and your families as healthy as you can be.

     Here are some points of communal importance for us all:

---The RKI below in Germany is the equivalent of the CDC in the U.S.
---The RKI has so far confirmed 6 deaths and 373 patients with hemolytic uremic syndrome, or (HUS) (kidney failure), a life-threatening complication of E. coli infections.  This number is subject to change and will likely increase at any time.
---Given the extremely contagious nature of this outbreak, it is more imperative than ever that all TSA Officers regularly change their gloves and maintain high standards of hygiene for themselves and for the passengers they 'serve'.
     Remember that a TSA Officer's shirt/sleeve/wrist/glove/arm contaminated with fecal matter after a under-the-belt 'pat down' of a person suffering with a STEC 0104:H4 infection can infect many more persons, not to mention the TSA Officer themselves and their own families.  Good sanitation WORKS!  
     Infants and young children who travel are at particular risk at this time, so parents you must be extra vigilant and assertive, especially as youngsters seem to be singled out more and more for 'hands on' inspection by the TSA!

---The strain in question is E. coli O104:H4 is also known as STEC.  'STEC' stands for 'Shiga toxin-producing E. coli'.
---Note that it is the TOXIN which does the most damage during severe infection with 'STEC' E. coli.
---Signs and symptoms of infection with  STEC O104:H4 are VERY obvious.  Even non-lethal cases present with severe cramps and bloody diarrhea with nausea and vomiting.  The patient will 'feel very sick'.  PARENTS: IF YOUR CHILD OR OTHER LOVED ONE HAS THE SLIGHTEST INDICATION OF HAVING CONTRACTED AN INFECTION OF THIS SORT, SEEK MEDICAL HELP IMMEDIATELY.  DO NOT DELAY.  Infants, children, the elderly, those with chronic medical conditions and those who are immuno-compromised are at particular risk of developing severe, life-threatening complications such as kidney failure ( hemolytic uremic syndrome aka HUS)
---The 'Shiga-toxin' produced by this food-borne bacteria does it's damage by literally destroying the mucosal lining of the intestines with attendant hemorrhaging which results in the so-called 'bloody diarrhea'.  This toxin destroys all other body tissues, as well.  If and when the infection overwhelms the body, major organ failure is induced and death is inevitable.
----Even 'non-life-threatening' STEC O104:H4 infections can result in severe anemia (lack of sufficient red blood cells), dehydration and other sequelae.  Weakness and a sense of debilitation can persist afterwards for a long time.
---All body fluids/substance (especially feces, blood, urine, vomit) of a person infected with STEC O104:H4 should be considered 'infectious'.
---Thus far, no cases of STEC O104:H4 are reported in the U.S.A., but with modern travel, it is entirely possible that this strain will make itself known here soon enough.  
     Remember that E. coli bacteria, whatever the 'type',  live in the intestines of warm-blooded vertebrates and are carried thus.  E. coli species and subspecies USED TO BE 'species-specific', meaning that cows had bovine E. coli, while humans only had human-type E. coli.  
     But things have changed and these strains can 'cross infect' and worse, different bacterial genuses hitherto thought to be UNABLE to 'conjugate and exchange genetic material' have done just THAT...ergo the emergence of 'superinfectious strains' like the E. coli O157:H7 the United States is familiar with.
---Just because no cases of STEC O104:H4 haven't been reported in the United States or in U.S. Service Members stationed in Germany does NOT mean that they will not be.  Be alert!  Stay aware.
---Remembering that initial outbreaks of E.coli disease years ago were linked to hamburger meat, bear in mind that subsequent outbreaks in the U.S. and elsewhere in the world have been linked to various fruits, vegetables and just about any edible foodstuffs.
---The initial reports implicate CUCUMBERS, lettuce and tomatoes in Germany, as the source of the STEC 0104:H4, but this does not necessarily mean that that is the sole source of the infection.
---Understand that much 'under reporting' is due to the fact that healthy individuals with relatively 'mild' cases of food-borne illness never see a physician or other health care provider, let alone 'get reported' in accordance with state and federal protocols.
---Be aware that given the fact that STEC O104:H4 is very rare and that it is suddenly the source of such major infection, there is the possibility of deliberate tampering with the food supply.
      Fortunately, it is possible to conduct epidemiological forensic work akin to DNA analysis and all types of 'fingerprinting' on these microbes, not that the public will ever necessarily know the truth if tampering is discovered in a limited outbreak.
---The above said, nature has no equal when it comes to rapid development and spread of contagion, especially in the modern world with long-distance travel of persons, produce and products, traditional overuse of antimicrobials, depressions of immune systems due to environmental factors and medical intervention and human frailties.
     Finally, I once again urge that you all maintain HIGH PERSONAL HYGIENE STANDARDS.
     Carry antimicrobial gel with you and use it constantly.  Teach children to do the same.
     Remember that a flushing toilet 'shoots' an aerosolized mist a good six feet into the room, at least.  Store toothbrushes and personal care items well away from and/or protected from toilet 'spray'.
     Keep hands and fingers away from the face, out of the mouth/nose/eyes/ears, etc.
     Thoroughly wash ALL produce with a small amount of dish detergent and water and scrub with a vegetable brush.  Of course, be sure to rinse away all trace of 'soap smell'.
     I do not recommend the regular use of a bleach solution to disinfect food, unless sanitation conditions are at an all-time low.
     Certain foods such as lettuce and berries cannot be washed clean enough to be safe to eat if they are, indeed, contaminated with a pathogenic microbe such as those discussed here.
     Try to buy from reputable sources and organic if you can afford it.  But understand that eating tainted food is always a possibility under the best of conditions.
     Do note that even if ALL BACTERIA and other microbes are removed or killed before eating, TOXINS can STILL BE PRESENT which cannot be 'cooked or cleaned away'.
     It is better to 'do without' when in doubt, rather than risk your health and that of your family.
     That's it for now and be sure to check www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com regularly for updates as this situation with STEC O104:H4 unfolds.
     If you'd like to sign up for my FREE NEWSLETTER and get my latest news right in your mailbox, sign up below.
     Please be careful in this age of 'superbugs'.
May God Bless & Keep You
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com
Questions/Comments: down below or email Rev. Barb at BarbaraKSexton@aol.com 
LINK for article below:  http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/s0601_ecoligermany.html?s_cid=2011_s0601_ecoligermany

CDC Statement on Outbreak of STEC O104:H4 infections in Germany

CDC is following a large outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O104, or STEC O104, infections currently going on in Germany. As of May 31, 2011, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), Germany's disease control and prevention agency, has confirmed six deaths and 373 patients with hemolytic uremic syndrome, or (HUS) (kidney failure), a life-threatening complication of E. coli infections.
To date, no confirmed cases of STEC O104 infections have been reported in U.S. travelers to Europe. Two cases of HUS in the United States have been reported in persons with recent travel to Hamburg, Germany. CDC is working with state health departments to learn more about these two cases and to identify others. CDC has been in contact with the German public health authorities at RKI. We have alerted state health departments in the United States of the ongoing outbreak. We have also requested that they report to CDC any cases in which people have either HUS or Shiga toxin-positive diarrheal illness, with illness onset during or after travel to Germany since April 1, 2011.
The strain of STEC causing illness, STEC O104:H4, is very rare. CDC is not aware of any cases of STEC O104:H4 infection ever being reported in United States. Any person with recent travel to Germany with signs or symptoms of STEC infection or HUS, should seek medical care and let the medical provider know about the outbreak of STEC infections in Germany and the importance of being tested. Symptoms of STEC infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, which is often bloody, and vomiting. If there is fever, it usually is not very high. Most people get better within 5–7 days, but some patients go on to develop HUS—usually about a week after the diarrhea starts. Symptoms of HUS include decreased frequency of urination, feeling very tired, and losing pink color to skin and membranes due to anemia.
CDC is not aware that a specific food has been confirmed as the source of the infections. Travelers to Germany should be aware that the German public health authorities have recommended against eating raw lettuce, tomatoes or cucumbers, particularly in the northern states of Germany (Hamburg, Bremen, Lower Saxony, Schleswig Holstein). We have no information that any of these suspected foods have been shipped from Europe to the United States at this time. The US Department of Defense has been notified of this outbreak because of the presence of U.S. military bases in Germany. We are not aware of any cases among U.S. military personnel.
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:

1. Would this be the largest E. coli outbreak ever in the world?
   
   We are still learning more about the overall size of this outbreak. The number of HUS cases involved indicates that the outbreak is very large.
2. Tell us about this rare strain and are we testing for it here?
   
   A very rare strain of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or STEC has been reported from some patients in the outbreak. This strain, E. coli O104:H4 has never been seen in the United States, and CDC is only aware of few reports of this strain from other countries. Although it is rare, the United States' public health surveillance systems are designed to be able to identify this, and other rare STEC strains, in ill people. However, the ability to detect STEC infections through surveillance depends on proper diagnostic testing of patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of STEC. In 2009, CDC published recommendations for the diagnosis of STEC infections by clinical laboratories. The illness that it causes is similar to that caused by E. coli O157:H7 which is also a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and the one most commonly identified in the United States.
3. Could people travel from Germany and spread it here?
   
   STEC infections can be spread from person to person. The best defense is careful, thorough hand washing. Persons returning from Germany who have diarrhea should be sure to wash hands well with soap and warm water after using the bathroom, and should not prepare food for others while they are ill. People who are in contact with ill people who recently visited Germany should also follow basic hygiene practices carefully, including washing their hands thoroughly before eating or drinking and after caring for an ill person.
4. Why so many sick people?
   
   
   It is too early to know why this is such a large outbreak. The large size may have to do with contamination of a popular food item. However, to our knowledge a specific food vehicle has yet to be confirmed. It is also possible that the unusual strain is particularly likely to cause HUS. 
   LINK: http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2011/s0601_ecoligermany.html?s_cid=2011_s0601_ecoligermany

"The Sudden BED BUG PROBLEM Explained" By Reverend Barbara Sexton "The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"

OUR LITTLE 'FRIENDS' Cimex lectularius

"All bedbugs mate by traumatic insemination.[3][20] Because the female has no genital opening, the male pierces her abdomen with his hypodermic genitalia and ejaculates into the body cavity. Male bedbugs sometimes attempt to mate with other males and pierce the latter in the abdomen.[21]"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedbug 

Dear Ones:
     The exposition below is from an e-mail, which I believe to be quite accurate even if it only tells PART of the story!
     I have and I am doing extensive RESEARCH on this 'BED BUG PROBLEM' for you and will report on the same once this election season comes to a close, no worries.  My newfound political activism is the reason I have temporarily suspended distribution of my FREE NEWSLETTER.  (If you'd like to receive my FREE NEWLETTER for up-to-date health news in 'real time', just email me at BarbaraKSexton@aol.com with your name own email address.)
     For now I'll resist 'the urge' to suggest that this is anything more than a result of 'our global economy'.  But these little blood-suckers really ARE a health menace. 
     Don't you wonder how they suddenly FLARED UP in the UNITED STATES?
      I do.
For You in Christ,
Reverend Barbara Sexton
"The Biblical Biochemist-Where Science Meets the Cross"
www.DearOnesHealingMinistry.blogspot.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedbug

BED BUGS

A bit of information that you might like to know about.

We have friends here in our community and one of their sons is an entomologist (insect expert), and has been telling them that there is an epidemic of bed bugs now occurring in America. Recently I have heard on the news that several stores in NYC have had to close due to bed bug problems, as well as a complete mall in New Jersey. He says that since much of our clothing, sheets, towels, etc. now comes from companies outside of America, (sad but true), even the most expensive stores sell foreign clothing from China, Indonesia, etc. The bed bugs are coming in on the clothing as these countries do not consider them a problem.


He recommends that if you buy any new clothing, even underwear and socks, sheets, towels, etc. that you bring them into the house and put them in your clothes dryer for at least 20 minutes. The heat will kill them and their eggs. DO NOT PURCHASE CLOTHES AND HANG THEM IN THE CLOSET FIRST. It does not matter what the price range is of the clothing, or if the outfit comes from the most expensive store known in the U.S. They still get shipments from these countries and the bugs can come in a box of scarves or anything else for that matter. That is the reason why so many stores, many of them clothing stores have had to shut down in NYC and other places. All you need is to bring one item into the house that has bugs or eggs and you will go to hell and back trying to get rid of them. He travels all over the country as an advisor to many of these stores, as prevention and after they have the problem.

From e-mail.  THANK YOU UNCLE CHARLIE--You're the BEST!
Love & Blessings,
Barb