Avian Influenza in
UK
An outbreak of H5N1 avian influenza has been
confirmed on a large closed poultry farm in
Suffolk,
east England. The outbreak occurred on 1 February 2007.
There were a total of 159 000 turkeys on the farm, and
2500 were reported to have died due to avian influenza -
the rest were culled.
Laboratory testing of poultry found dead on the farm
were shown to contain the highly pathogenic Asian strain
of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. The same strain was
responsible for a recent outbreak in Hungary. A three-kilometre
protection zone and a 10-kilometre outer surveillance
zone has been imposed around the farm to prevent further
spread to neighbouring flocks and farms.
This outbreak presents minimal threat to tourists,
however the recommended precautions for bird flu apply -
don't eat or handle raw or uncooked birds, don't visit
animal markets or poultry farms, and practice frequent
careful hand washing.
Permethrin - a secret weapon
against mosquitoes
Permethrin is a special insecticide that enables
clothing to kill or repel mosquitoes
Wearing treated
items will significantly decrease the number of bites
you get. Treated bed nets have been shown to be four
times more effective than untreated nets. When you wear
treated clothes, you still need to use repellent on
exposed skin. You can buy items pre-treated (especially
bed nets) or treat items yourself with commercially
produced permethrin packs. Follow the treatment
instructions carefully to ensure the best effect. Do not
throw any unused solution down the sink. It is toxic to
fish. Follow the disposal instructions on the pack.
Treated articles which are immediately stored in a
sealed plastic bag, will retain effectiveness for 12
months until usage is begun. A permethrin impregnated
mosquito net is effective for 3-6 months of regular use.
The solution wears off as well as washes off. Treated
clothes are said to be active until the fourth normal
wash. Do not iron treated clothes.
Is permethrin safe?
Yes. Permethrin is related to the naturally
occurring pyrethrum from the flowers of a type of
Chrysanthemum. Once the fabric is treated and dried,
permethrin has no vapour action and nets can be used
safely, even around sleeping children. Should a young
child suck the net, they will not suffer any ill
effects. Treated items are not more flammable. There are
rare reports of persons developing a minor skin rash
after wearing treated clothes.
Did you know ...
The Defence forces wear permethrin
treated uniforms to help keep mosquito
diseases at bay. Now travellers can do the
same - treat their clothes at home before
they head off overseas. This will deter
mosquitoes from biting through the clothes.
The clothes will remain effective for up to
four washes. Self Treatment Permethrin
Soak packs are available from
your nearest TMA. |
Malaria in Goa -
January 30 2007
After two years with no reports of malaria in Goa,
India, there have been 8 Europeans diagnosed with
malaria since late November 06. Travellers are advised
to take extra precautions against mosquitoes and may
need to take medication to prevent malaria.
More info...
Rift Valley Fever in Kenya
- January 30 2007
This viral disease usually carried by mosquitoes or
contact with livestock, has caused 32 cases and 19
deaths in remote parts of Kenya.
More info...
|
The
Travel Medicine Alliance