Posted on 02/09/2009 12:36:11 AM PST by nw_arizona_granny
Yahoo ran an interesting article this morning indicating a rise in the number of survivalist communities cropping up around the country. I have been wondering myself how much of the recent energy crisis is causing people to do things like stockpile food and water, grow their own vegetables, etc. Could it be that there are many people out there stockpiling and their increased buying has caused food prices to increase? It’s an interesting theory, but I believe increased food prices have more to do with rising fuel prices as cost-to-market costs have increased and grocers are simply passing those increases along to the consumer. A recent stroll through the camping section of Wal-Mart did give me pause - what kinds of things are prudent to have on hand in the event of a worldwide shortage of food and/or fuel? Survivalist in Training
I’ve been interested in survival stories since I was a kid, which is funny considering I grew up in a city. Maybe that’s why the idea of living off the land appealed to me. My grandfather and I frequently took camping trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway and around the Smoky Mountains. Looking back, some of the best times we had were when we stayed at campgrounds without electricity hookups, because it forced us to use what we had to get by. My grandfather was well-prepared with a camp stove and lanterns (which ran off propane), and when the sun went to bed we usually did along with it. We played cards for entertainment, and in the absence of televisions, games, etc. we shared many great conversations. Survivalist in the Neighborhood
Get a Ball Blue Book. It tells all. It is not a complicated procedure, but it is time consuming.
I divide my canning into two days (learned that one through experience), to make it easier.
First day, I get out all the equipment and wash it to get the dust off. ;)
Clean off some counter space, check the jars for cracks and chips, check the canning lids for scratches, was the jars and lids in how soapy water and let dry, clean the rest of the kitchen, and make extra dinner for leftovers on canning day. There is NO fresh food cooked on canning day, it’s every man for himself and if I’m in the middle of actually working with food (on the second day), you don’t enter the kitchen unless someone stopped breathing or is bleeding to death. Even then use the LR phone and hang out by the front door for 911.
For the second day, (canning day), ***DISCLAIMER HERE***
contrary to the recommendations of the canning book, and this is all on you to decide, I put my canning jars in the oven to warm up on LOW. NEVER over 200 degrees. I’ve never had a jar crack on me this way but this is just me. This is advised against officially.
I put a small pot on the stove for boiling the lids and use distilled water as our water is so hard that it leaves deposits, but you have to use a glass pot because distilled water is very corrosive and will pit aluminum or stainless steel.
Put canner on stove and fill with hot water and bring to a boil. Put a tea kettle on to boil more water to fill canner high enough to cover jars if necessary.
Prepare food and fill jars according to directions in Ball Blue book. Put on lids and bands and hand tighten till very snug. Place hot jars in canner and process for recommended time. That’s how you can tell when it’s done, simply by processing it the recommend time.
When the processing time is done, place hot jars in a draft free place where they won’t be disturbed for 24 hours while they cool. Check the seal by looking at the little button in the center of the lid to see if it’s down and after I take off the band (after 24 hours) I push up on the lid with my thumb. If it’s sealed properly the lid cannot be pushed off by hand.
Wash the jars carefully to make sure they are clean on the outside and label them with a Sharpie for contents and date. You WILL forget when you processed it after a couple years.
WHO Raises Flu Pandemic Threat Level To 5
The World Health Organization raises its pandemic alert to phase 5, which is
just one step below level 6, a full-fledged pandemic.
MORE DETAILS: http://www.10News.com/tu/5Gp8muctE.html
That's more like it.....
I was wondering what the ‘met’ was for.
Hey, I could use that title myself - metallurgical engineering degree. MetCottonBall, MetBall, MetEngCot, na. doesn’t have a ring to it like yours does.
Most people think of the baseball team, which never occurred to me cause I hate baseball.
actually, that’s what I thought it might be too.
You need to keep us up-to-date on crop growing weather. Of course, it would be nice if we were in your same climate zone or whatever it is called.
This is NY where the most true comment about the weather is....
“If you don’t like the weather, wait a minute...”
Use Accuweather or Weatherunderground for good weather watching.
LOL! Hubby is from NY, around the Rochester area. He has nothing but bad things to say about the weather there. I think he must just be remembering the bad stuff, because it can’t be THAT bad. Especially the summers, compared to our blistering heat here. (Bakersfield)
Ummm, yes it can. The weather in NYS is early winter, mid-winter, late winter, and construction.
The summers can be nice but July and Aug can get pretty hot and oppressive. You can NEVER count on decent weather for any event.
However, we have an adequate growing season, grow great apples and grapes. The climate is good for them.
Corn, potatoes, onions.
NY is actually quite an agricultural state. We can and do grow anything that doesn’t require a long growing season or is not really cold intolerant.
>>>Most people think of the baseball team<<<
LOL - That was my guess too.
Never would have guessed meteorology.
Whenever I think of meteorologists, I remember the one question I missed on my commercial pilots exam:
If your weather briefing called for virga, what would you expect to encounter? Who ever heard of high altitude rain that didn’t reach the ground..... LOL Never forgotten that one.
Question... Do you adjust canning pressure based on barometric pressure or altitude? OK, sorry, being silly now...
Altitude, but it's not such a silly question. I've been canning here for a few years and just realized that we're enough about sea level that I should have been adding another 5 minutes to the hot water bath canning. I make sure the gauge on the pressure canner reads a little bit over 240, just to be on the safe side.
Hmmm, I hadn’t thought of it before, but you could easily rack up 1,000’ of altitude change just from a low passing, or move to sea level from a high.
OK, now I am going to have to start watching that barometer next time I can, just out of curiosity. If today it is 29.92” tomorrow night as the low comes in, If it makes it down to 28.82 my effective altitude is then 1,000 feet.
Maybe I should then alter my time or pressure... The Ball Blue Book would have to grow several pages to accommodate that calculation and the related charts.
CottonBall - SEE - there I go again with the engineering calculation stuff...
It wouldn’t surprise me if the people this age were deficient in vitamin d.
It's very common in Arizona and California, and I would imagine Utah, Nevada and New Mexico.
I’ve never honestly considered it but now you got me going. I can just see what it’s going to be like doing up my tomato sauce.
I’ve heard that bread baking is better done on low pressure (bad weather) days.
Makes sense.
German cell ‘planned 9/11 attacks’
— four Jihadists planned 9/11/2007 attacks
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,25407464-38200,00.html?from=public_rss
http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/world/5532814
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,27574,25407464-23109,00.html
— previously reports stated plots were to target U.S. nationals in Germany
http://www.unitedstatesaction.com/blog/imm-articles/044.html
http://www.unitedstatesaction.com/blog/imm-articles/045.html
(Iraq) More than 40 killed in twin car bombs in Baghdad
http://uk.news.yahoo.com/22/20090429/tpl-uk-iraq-violence-81f3b62.html
— Two booby-trapped cars blow up in Baghdad tonight
http://www.kuna.net.kw/NewsAgenciesPublicSite/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=1994475&Language=en
— Five Iraqis killed, 13 injured in separate terrorist attacks in capital
http://www.kuna.net.kw/NewsAgenciesPublicSite/ArticleDetails.aspx?id=1994455&Language=en
(Iraq) Interviews with Members of a Slaughtering Squad of Al-Qaeda in Iraq
http://memri.org/bin/latestnews.cgi?ID=SD233309
Iraq: First Shia Al-Qaeda cell ‘uncovered’
http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Security/?id=3.0.3259878969
(Pakistan) NWFP: Taliban vow to reform banking, journalism
— “Talking to the TV channel, Taliban spokesman Haji Muslim Khan said Taliban’s
next target would be the banking system ‘where un-Islamic affairs are being carried out’”
— “Taliban would penalise the media with the sharia punishment for telling lies”
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg1_6
— Media warned against anti-Taliban coverage in Swat
http://www.littleabout.com/2009/04/29/media-warned-against-anti-taliban-coverage-in-swat/
(Pakistan) NWFP: Tehreek-e-Nifaz-e-Shariat-e-Muhammad (TNSM) chief
Sufi Muhammad to start efforts for peace today
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg7_33
(Pakistan) NWFP: Taliban kidnapped over 50 security personnel: Pak
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/World/Taliban-kidnapped-over-50-security-personnel-Pak/articleshow/4464927.cms
(Pakistan) NWFP’s Buner: “Pakistan troops kill over 50 Taliban” in two days
http://au.news.yahoo.com/a/-/world/5533389
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/World/50-Taliban-killed-in-Buner-ops-Pak-/articleshow/4463679.cms
— Pakistani troops seize key ‘sharia’ town
http://www.radioaustralianews.net.au/stories/200904/2556767.htm?desktop
(Pakistan) NWFP: 10 shops blown up, grenade hurled at Peshawar High Court (PHC)
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=175020
(Pakistan) FATA - Geo TV: “U.S. strikes kill 10 in South Waziristan”
http://www.geo.tv/4-30-2009/41007.htm
(Pakistan) FATA: Taliban seize houses, shops of Sikhs in Orakzai
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg1_8
Pakistan News’ reader defends Sharia on women: “we are a Muslim country,”
telling those who don’t like it to shut up or leave the country
— “As soon as the Taliban stray outside the true religious Sharia, all of
Pakistan will have the justification to protest vehemently. But until then,
please just shut up and stop projecting the values of the west onto our society.”
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=174926
(Pakistan) Addtl Report: “Taliban harasses Christians in Pakistan”
http://www.sbcbaptistpress.org/BPnews.asp?ID=30390
(Pakistan/Poland) Body of Pole killed by Taliban returned to family - Piotr Stanczak beheaded
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg7_9
(Pakistan/U.S.) ‘Army fears disintegration if war ordered on Taliban’
— Ironic understatement by Bruce Riedel: “Some officials are in denial”
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg1_11
-— December 1, 2008: Pakistan’s The News - Army official calls
Taliban’s Baitullah Mehsud, Maulana Fazlullah ‘patriots’
http://thenews.jang.com.pk/top_story_detail.asp?Id=18709
(Pakistan/U.S.) US for durable partnership with Pakistan
— US National Security Council spokesman Mike Hammer
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg7_43
— US training of Pakistani troops to grow
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg7_13
(Pakistan/U.S.) Bin Laden still alive: Obama
http://www.thenews.com.pk/updates.asp?id=76270
Pakistan concerned over US plan
— “Pakistan fears that US reinforcements in Afghanistan’s south can
push Taliban over its porous border: US general”
http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/world/12-pakistan-concerned-over-us-plan—bi-14
(Pakistan) Won’t use US arms against India: Pak
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Wont-use-US-arms-against-India-Pak/articleshow/4465573.cms
(Afghanistan) Taliban threatens wave of attacks against US surge
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090429/ap_on_re_as/as_afghanistan_66
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090429/ap_on_re_as/as_afghanistan
http://www.gulf-daily-news.com/NewsDetails.aspx?storyid=249322
— Afghanistan: Taliban announces new spring offensive
http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Security/?id=3.0.3260489706
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg7_1
(Afghanistan) 1 German soldier killed, 9 wounded in Afghanistan
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_GERMANY_AFGHANISTAN?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=EUROPE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2009-04-29-17-03-15
(India) Terror casts shadow as south Mumbai votes
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/Terror-casts-shadow-as-south-Mumbai-votes/articleshow/4465908.cms
(UK) Terror camp recruits Waheed Ali and Mohammed Shakil jailed
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article6194923.ece
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2009/apr/29/7-7-bombs-camp-sentence
(U.S.) In conspiracy trial, dark tale emerges of jihad training
— “Speaking publicly for the first time, former Seattle resident James Ujaama
testified Tuesday in New York about his efforts to create a terrorist training camp
in rural Oregon for would-be jihad warriors.”
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009141672_ujaama29m.html
— Terror Trial Witness Created Militant Jihad Training Camp in Oregon
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,518424,00.html
(U.S.) Fort Dix Sentencing - Additional Report: 4 life terms, 1 33-year sentence in Fort Dix case
http://www.dailyrecord.com/article/20090429/UPDATES01/90429038/0/COMMUNITIES40
(U.S.) Holder seeks help from Europe to relocate Guantanamo detainees
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/04/29/holder.guantanamo/index.html
(U.S.) Princeton Prof: Europe unfriendly to Muslims, Tariq Ramadan ‘dangerous man’
http://islamineurope.blogspot.com/2009/04/princeton-prof-europe-unfriendly-to.html
(Hamas/U.S.) LA Times: “Obama move alarms Israel supporters”
— “the administration has asked Congress for minor changes in U.S. law
that would permit aid to continue flowing to Palestinians in the event
Hamas-backed officials become part of a unified Palestinian government”
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-obama-hamas27-2009apr27,0,4563512.story
Lebanon frees generals held in Hariri killing
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20090429.wlebanon29/BNStory/International/?page=rss&id=RTGAM.20090429.wlebanon29
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1239710819845&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
(Lebanon) Credentials Challenged, Radical Quotes West Point
— Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi cites the Combating Terrorism Center at
West Point as evidence of his commitment to jihad
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/30/world/middleeast/30jihad.html?_r=1&hpw
— same West Point periodical that has published articles urging
Muslim Brotherhood organizations in counterterrorism tactics
http://www.unitedstatesaction.com/blog/sources_mandaville.html
(Iran) ‘US won’t set timelines for Iran talks’
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1239710821164&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
(Iran) US journalist could apply for amnesty: Iran
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/DisplayArticle08.asp?xfile=data/international/2009/April/international_April2369.xml§ion=international
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak warns Iran, Hizbullah
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1239710819953&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
Somalia: Save the Children’s Official Attacked in Beledweyn Town
http://allafrica.com/stories/200904290224.html
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/04/29/Home-of-aid-worker-attacked-in-Somalia/UPI-65451241012702/
(Somalia) Grenade attack kills five in central Somalia
http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/LT878364.htm
— Somalia: Three People Killed in Roadside Bomb in Galk’ayo
http://allafrica.com/stories/200904290699.html
Algeria: Al-Qaeda video promotes child recruitment
http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Security/?id=3.0.3259866337
(Nigeria) Alberta woman held hostage in Nigeria released, says family friend
http://www.canadaeast.com/rss/article/651419
(France) Muslim Youssouf Fofana defies court over torture and murder of Jew
— Youssouf Fofana: “Allah will conquer”
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6194815.ece
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1239710816759&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
— 27 suspected in death of French Jew go on trial
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_FRANCE_ANTI_SEMITISM?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=EUROPE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2009-04-29-16-46-41
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/apr/29/torture-murder-anti-semitism-trial-france
(Turkey) Bomb kills 9 in Turkey, police detain 2 suicide bombers
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20090430/wl_nm/us_turkey_attacks_2
(Philippines) Police foil bomb attack in southern Philippines
http://www.yehey.com/news/Article.aspx?id=238925
(Sri Lanka) Ex-rebel: Sri Lanka guerrillas killing civilians
http://sg.news.yahoo.com/ap/20090430/tap-as-sri-lanka-rebels-d3b07b8.html
Islamic Supremacist War on Women:
(Pakistan) Kinnaird College (KC) Lahore imposes ban on jeans after alleged threats
— “Kinnaird College (KC) administration has banned the students from
wearing jeans or other tight dresses in the wake of possible terrorist threats”
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\04\30\story_30-4-2009_pg1_9
Jordan halves ‘honour’ killing jail term
— “Murder is punishable by the death penalty in Jordan, but in the case of
such murders, so-called “honour killings,” a court usually commutes or reduces sentences”
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=807913
http://www.smh.com.au/world/honour-killing-murderers-jail-term-halved-20090430-annx.html
http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/World/Story/STIStory_370376.html
Other News:
(U.S.) IPT News: CAIR/FBI Saga Plods On
http://www.investigativeproject.org/blog/#156
(U.S.) Virginia: From Fairfax To Richmond, “The Jihad Way?” — on Omeish campaign
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/rawfisher/2009/04/from_fairfax_to_richmond_the_j.html
-— See also: Omeish in Last Place in Latest 35th District Poll
http://stopomeish.blogspot.com/2009/04/omeish-in-last-place-in-latest-35th.html
(U.S./UAE) Torture tape delays U.S.-UAE nuclear deal
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/04/29/uae.nuke.deal/index.html
— Comment: not UAE’s support for Islamic supremacism....
http://www.familysecuritymatters.org/publications/id.2066/pub_detail.asp
— UAE condemns sheik torture tape
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/04/29/UAE-condemns-sheik-torture-tape/UPI-71921241048898/
-— See Also - December 12, 2008:
-— U.S. Plans to Sign Nuclear Pact With U.A.E.
—— “Thorium Power Ltd.of Virginia and CH2M Hill of Colorado — to oversee
the development of its nuclear-power program”
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122904102094400097.html
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2008\12\13\story_13-12-2008_pg7_51
(U.S.) Minnesota: Muslim student group protests Israeli celebration
— Muslim Student Association
http://www.mndaily.com/2009/04/29/muslim-student-group-protests-israeli-celebration
US-based firm to launch two Shariah funds
http://www.business24-7.ae/articles/2009/4/pages/28042009/04292009_26b458eb6c3e4257a415ab1fc4cd143e.aspx
(U.S.) University of Connecticut: “Speaker’s anti-Muslim propaganda only spreads hate”
- by Saleh Ibrahim
— praises CAIR, condemns Jesse Peterson
http://media.www.dailycampus.com/media/storage/paper340/news/2009/04/29/Commentary/Speakers.AntiMuslim.Propaganda.Only.Spreads.Hate-3730662.shtml
(U.S.) ISNA’s Ingrid Mattson, Professor of Islamic Studies, to speak at
Religion Communication Congress 2010
http://www.wfn.org/2009/04/msg00201.html
(U.S.) California: Bakery group leader accused of ordering 3 murders
http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2009/04/29/bakery_group_leader_accused_of_ordering_3_murders/
— Yusuf Bey IV discusses religious beliefs in jail calls — believes he is “God”
http://www.contracostatimes.com/news/ci_12255999?source=rss
(Germany/Iran) Schroder promoting trade with Iran
http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1239710821258&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
(Malaysia) Muslim groups upset with religious conversion ruling
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com.my/index.php/malaysia/24963-muslim-groups-upset-with-religious-conversion-ruling
Algeria: Christian churches reopen
http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Religion/?id=3.0.3243752894
Denmark: 18% of Muslims want to see Sharia law implemented
http://islamineurope.blogspot.com/2009/04/denmark-18-of-muslims-want-to-see.html
(UK) London Mayor’s Muslim Cleric Says Hitler Put Jews In Their Place
http://www.anorak.co.uk/politicians/208764.html
(UK) Anti Semitism is a spreading poison in the British Left
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/debate/article-1174296/HARRY-PHIBBS-Anti-Semitism-spreading-poison-British-Left.html
(UK) “Prince of Wales watches Christianity v Islam football game”
— London Times thinks this is a great joke
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article6194620.ece
Against Racial Supremacist News:
(U.S.) FOX News: “Right-Wing College Group Riles Students on Campuses Nationwide”
— More reports about the “Youth for Western Civilization” (YWC)
— FOX News provides web link to group
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,518378,00.html
— YWC was promoted last month on white supremacist web site “American Renaissance”
http://www.amren.com/mtnews/archives/2009/03/youth_for_weste.php
— YWC promotion article is included on web page along with promotions for:
— “Essential Writings on Race by Samuel Francis”
— “On Genetic Interests” — and Ethnicity
— “Race and the American Prospect”
— “Why Race Matters”
— “A Race Against Time: Racial Heresies for the 21st Century”
— “The Affirmative Action Hoax”
— “The Color of Crime”
— “The Rosa Parks Madness”
— “Transition to Black Rule?”... defending Apartheid
— “The Unknown Martin Luther King Jr.”
Against Nazi News:
(France) Auschwitz survivor in French Legion of Honor
http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_FRANCE_LEGION_OF_HONOR?SITE=FLTAM&SECTION=EUROPE&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2009-04-29-16-55-00
(U.S.) Holocaust survivor tells troops her story
http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20090429/COMMUNITY/904290302
(U.S./Germany) Patrick Buchanan Again Defends Accused Nazi John Demjanjuk
http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=31454
— See also: Buchanan, Demjanjuk and antisemitism
http://www.hurryupharry.org/2009/04/29/buchanan-demjanjuk-and-antisemitism/
— May 11, 2005 - Patrick Buchanan: “Was World War II worth it?”
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=44210
— 1977 Patrick Buchanan Praise for Adolf Hitler
http://www.realchange.org/buchanan.htm#hitler
Against Totalitarian News:
North Korea threatens nuclear, missile tests
http://www.realcourage.org/2009/04/north-korea-threatens-nuclear-missile-tests/
__._,_.___
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Weekly Harvest Newsletter
Sustainable Agriculture News Briefs - April 29, 2009
Weekly sustainable agriculture news and resources gleaned from the Internet by NCAT staff for the ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service Web site. The Weekly Harvest Newsletter is also available online (http://attra.ncat.org/newsletter/archives.html#wh).
Share The Harvest: Please forward this newsletter to friends and colleagues who might be interested in the latest sustainable agriculture news, funding opportunities, and events.
News & Resources
* ATTRA To Host Hoop House Webinar
* USDA To Conduct Organic Study
* Researchers Study Organic Dairy Manure as Fertilizer
* Publication Offers Information on Grass-fed Beef
* Report Discusses Climate-Friendly Food System
* Community Food Conference Seeking Workshop Proposals
Funding Opportunities
* Western SARE Sustainable Agricultural Tours Grant
* Southern SARE Graduate Student Grant
* Victor Chrapko Non-GMO Scholarship
Coming Events
* Atlanta Local Food Forward
* Hoop Houses for Extending Your Growing Season Webinar
* Poultry Processing Workshop
News & Resources
ATTRA To Host Hoop House Webinar
http://www.attra.ncat.org/webinars2009/hoophouses
Hoop houses can help small-scale farmers grow more and extend their season, bringing a higher price for crops and developing loyal customers. Find out how hoop houses might benefit your crops in a FREE 60-minute webinar from ATTRA – National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. Your presenters for this webinar are NCAT horticulture specialists Tammy Hinman and Andy Pressman. The webinar will be held on May 7, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. (Mountain time).
USDA To Conduct Organic Study
http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/!ut/p/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB/.cmd/ad/.ar/sa.retrievecontent/.c/6_2_1UH/.ce/7_2_5JM/.p/5_2_4TQ/.d/1/_th/J_2_9D/_s.7_0_A/7_0_1OB?PC_7_2_5JM_contentid=2009/04/0126.xml&PC_7_2_5JM_parentnav=LATEST_RELEASES&PC_7_2_5JM_navid=NE
This spring, USDA will conduct the first-ever, wide-scale survey of organic farming in the United States, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. The survey will find out how the growth of organic farming is changing the face of U.S. agriculture. ‘The Organic Production Survey is a direct response to the growing interest in organics among consumers, farmers, and businesses,’ said Vilsack. ‘This is an opportunity for organic producers to share their voices and help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of organic farming in the United States.’
Researchers Study Organic Dairy Manure as Fertilizer
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2009/090422.htm
Dairy cows that produce USDA-certified organic milk also produce manure that may gradually replenish soil nutrients and potentially reduce the flow of agricultural pollutants to nearby water sources, according to findings by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists and colleagues. Cows on organic dairy farms generally consume forage feeds cultivated on soils that are fertilized with manure and compost rather than manufactured fertilizers. This organic management, in turn, may significantly affect how easily nutrients are converted in soil into forms readily taken up by crops. They showed that conventional and organic dairy manures from commercial dairy farms differed in concentrations of plant nutrients, including phosphorus, metals and minerals.
Related ATTRA Publication: Manures for Organic Crop Production
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/manures.html
Publication Offers Information on Grass-fed Beef
http://www.cias.wisc.edu/news/extension-publication-answers-consumers-quesions-about-grass-fed-beef/
Farmers use a variety of systems to raise healthy animals. Today, most meat in the grocery store or at the local restaurant is from animals that were raised in a feedlot and fed significant amounts of grain in addition to hay and pasture. Grass-fed meat is from animals that are put “out on grass,” or fed a forage diet. This allows animals to harvest their own food and dispose of their own manure in the pasture. A consumer’s guide to grass-fed beef provides information about the health and environmental benefits of grass-fed beef and how to buy and cook this beef.
Report Discusses Climate-Friendly Food System
Sustainable practices in agriculture, combined with the development of local food systems, can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. food system, finds a new paper by the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (http://www.iatp.org/) (IATP). The paper, ‘Identifying our Climate *Foodprint*,’ (http://www.iatp.org/iatp/publications.cfm?accountID=258&refID=105667) (PDF/395KB) by Jennifer Edwards, Jim Kleinschmit and Heather Schoonover, looks at the entire food chain and identifies opportunities to shift toward a more climate-friendly system.
Community Food Conference Seeking Workshop Proposals
http://www.communityfoodconference.org/
The deadline for workshop proposals for the Community Food Security Conference, October 10-13, 2009 in Des Moines, Iowa has been extended to 5 pm PDT, Friday May 8, 2009. They are accepting proposals for interactive workshops on topics such as Farm to Cafeteria; Food Access in Rural and Urban Communities; Local Food System Projects and Networks; Urban Agriculture Practice and Policy; and many other topics.
More Breaking News (http://attra.ncat.org/news/)
Funding Opportunities
Western SARE Sustainable Agricultural Tours Grant
https://wsare.usu.edu/grants/?ok=Vw_RFAs
The Administrative Council of the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program announces the Request for Sustainable Agricultural Tours Grant Applications for 2009. With a Sustainable Agricultural Tour Grant, farmers and ranchers will be able to network with other producers, researchers and other sustainable agricultural professionals in seeing and learning about sustainable agricultural production systems. These grants are targeted for producers to attend specific on-farm demonstration and/or educational outreach tours in an area of sustainable agriculture. The maximum allowed per grant application is $2,000.
These funds are awarded on a first come basis.
Southern SARE Graduate Student Grant
http://www.southernsare.uga.edu/callpage.htm
The Southern Region USDA Program on Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) is requesting proposals for Graduate Student research projects that address issues of sustainable agriculture of current and potential importance to the Southern Region and the nation. The Southern SARE Graduate Student Grants in Sustainable Agriculture grants a one-time project maximum of $10,000. Projects may last up to three years.
Proposals are due June 1, 2009.
Victor Chrapko Non-GMO Scholarship
http://www.ocia.org/RE/VictorChrapkoScholarship.aspx
In memory of OCIA member Victor Chrapko, the OCIA Research & Education Board will award one $1,000 scholarship to support education and/or research projects with a focus on determining the environmental, health, and/or social impacts of non-GMOs (plants and/or animals) in the environment and in the food system.
Proposals are due June 1, 2009.
More Funding Opportunities (http://attra.ncat.org/funding/)
Coming Events
Atlanta Local Food Forward
http://www.georgiaorganics.org/events/event.php?id=852
May 1, 2009
Atlanta, Georgia
The Atlanta Local Food Initiative (ALFI), a coalition of citizens and organizations, has begun a grassroots movement to reconfigure our food system to promote the health of our people, our economy, and our environment. We invite you to participate in a one day invitational event to create an action plan for achieving the vision outlined in A Plan for Atlanta’s Sustainable Food Future.
Hoop Houses for Extending Your Growing Season Webinar
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/289061962
May 7, 2009
11:00-12:00 (MDT)
Hoop houses can help small-scale farmers grow more and extend their season, bringing a higher price for crops and developing loyal customers. Find out how hoop houses might benefit your crops in a FREE 60-minute webinar from ATTRA – National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. Your presenters for this webinar are NCAT horticulture specialists Tammy Hinman and Andy Pressman.
Poultry Processing Workshop
http://www.ncftn.org/poultry-processing-workshop
May 8, 2009
Salisbury, North Carolina
Techniques on humane slaughter and safe handling will be addressed as well as composting processing waste. We will also talk about the legal and food safety aspects of processing under the 1,000-bird inspection exemption. This workshop will be taught using the new Mobile Processing Unit (MPU) funded by a grant from Animal Welfare Approved, and built by Wild Turkey Farms. The unit will be available to Animal Welfare Approved farmers as well as other area farmers, subject to availability. To register for the free workshop, please contact Emily Lancaster by email at emily@animalwelfareapproved.org. Deadline for registration is April 30, 2009. Directions and workshop details will follow registration confirmation.
More Events (http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/)
New & Updated Publications
Completing Your Application for Organic Certification
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/04/29/completing_your_application_for_organic_
Agriculture, Climate Change and Carbon Sequestration
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/01/27/agriculture_climate_change_and_carbon_se
Equipo para Producción Aviar Alternativa
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/new_pubs.php/2009/01/09/equipo_para_produccion_aviar_alternativa
Question of the Week
Can you give me some recommendations for starting with cut flower production?
http://attra.ncat.org/calendar/question.php/2009/04/27/can_you_give_me_some_reccomendations_for
Website of the Week
Farmers Market Coalition
http://attra.ncat.org/wow/
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Submit questions to our professional staff online
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Copyright 2009 NCAT
INFLUENZA A (H1N1) “SWINE FLU”: WORLDWIDE (07), UPDATE, PANDEMIC LEVEL 5
************************************************************************
A ProMED-mail post
http://www.promedmail.org
ProMED-mail is a program of the
International Society for Infectious Diseases
http://www.isid.org
In this update:
[1] WHO announces Pandemic level 5
[2] WHO update confirmed cases
[3] PAHO update confirmed cases in the Americas
[4] USA confirmed cases
[5] Mexico - MOH press releases
[6] Canada PHA confirmed cases
******
[1] WHO announces Pandemic level 5
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: WHO website [edited]
http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2009/h1n1_20090429/en/index.html
Statement by WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan 29 Apr 2009;
Swine influenza:
Ladies and gentlemen,
Based on assessment of all available information, and following
several expert consultations, I have decided to raise the current
level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to phase 5.
Influenza pandemics must be taken seriously precisely because of
their capacity to spread rapidly to every country in the world.
On the positive side, the world is better prepared for an influenza
pandemic than at any time in history.
Preparedness measures undertaken because of the threat from H5N1
avian influenza were an investment, and we are now benefiting from
this investment.
For the 1st time in history, we can track the evolution of a pandemic
in real-time.
I thank countries who are making the results of their investigations
publicly available. This helps us understand the disease.
I am impressed by the work being done by affected countries as they
deal with the current outbreaks.
I also want to thank the governments of the USA and Canada for their
support to WHO, and to Mexico.
Let me remind you, new diseases are, by definition, poorly
understood. Influenza viruses are notorious for their rapid mutation
and unpredictable behaviour.
WHO and health authorities in affected countries will not have all
the answers immediately, but we will get them.
WHO will be tracking the pandemic at the epidemiological, clinical,
and virological levels.
The results of these ongoing assessments will be issued as public
health advice, and made publicly available.
All countries should immediately activate their pandemic preparedness
plans. Countries should remain on high alert for unusual outbreaks of
influenza-like illness and severe pneumonia.
At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened
surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection
control in all health facilities.
This change to a higher phase of alert is a signal to governments, to
ministries of health and other ministries, to the pharmaceutical
industry and the business community that certain actions should now
be undertaken with increased urgency, and at an accelerated pace.
I have reached out to donor countries, to UNITAID, to the GAVI
Alliance, the World Bank and others to mobilize resources.
I have reached out to companies manufacturing antiviral drugs to
assess capacity and all options for ramping up production.
I have also reached out to influenza vaccine manufacturers that can
contribute to the production of a pandemic vaccine.
The biggest question, right now, is this: how severe will the
pandemic be, especially now at the start?
It is possible that the full clinical spectrum of this disease goes
from mild illness to severe disease. We need to continue to monitor
the evolution of the situation to get the specific information and
data we need to answer this question.
From past experience, we also know that influenza may cause mild
disease in affluent countries, but more severe disease, with higher
mortality, in developing countries.
No matter what the situation is, the international community should
treat this as a window of opportunity to ramp up preparedness and
response.
Above all, this is an opportunity for global solidarity as we look
for responses and solutions that benefit all countries, all of
humanity. After all, it really is all of humanity that is under
threat during a pandemic.
As I have said, we do not have all the answers right now, but we will get them.
Thank you.
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail Rapporteur Kunihiko Iizuka
ProMED-mail Rapporteur Brent Barrett
[For a discussion on the stages of pandemic alert, see
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/phase/en/index.html
“Phase 5 is characterized by human-to-human spread of the virus into
at least 2 countries in one WHO region. While most countries will not
be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase 5 is a strong
signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the
organization, communication, and implementation of the planned
mitigation measures is short.”
At present, there are cases in Canada and the United States who do
not have a history of travel to Mexico, so there are now 3 countries
(USA, Canada and Mexico) that are reporting human to human spread of
the virus (see below for more details). At present, the definition of
a suspected case in many countries includes a history of travel to
Mexico or another country (such as the USA or Canada) that has
confirmed cases. This may bias towards a later recognition of
indigenous transmission of the novel H1N1 virus in countries not
presently known to have local cases. - Mod.MPP]
******
[2] WHO update confirmed cases
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: WHO Epidemic and Pandemic Alert and Response (EPR) [edited]
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_04_29/en/index.html
Swine influenza - update 5-29 Apr 2009
The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with
no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (13), Germany (3), Israel (2), New
Zealand (3), Spain (4) and the United Kingdom (5).
Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO
website on a regular basis.
WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders.
It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay
international travel and for people developing symptoms following
international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance
from national authorities.
There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption
of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to
wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and
should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of
influenza-like illness.
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
******
[3] PAHO update confirmed cases in the Americas
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: PAHO website [edited]
http://new.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1283&Itemid=569
Influenza cases by a new sub-type: Regional Update (29 Apr 2009 13:00
hrs. WDC time) Epidemiological Alerts Vol. 6, No. 15
To date, a total of 91 human cases of swine influenza have been
confirmed in the United States (1 in Arizona, 14 in California, 1 in
Indiana, 2 in Kansas, 2 in Massachusetts, 2 in Michigan, 1 in Nevada,
51 in New York City, 1 in Ohio and 16 in Texas). The 1st death
attributable to swine influenza in the United States has been
confirmed. A child of 22 months old that came from Mexico died in a
hospital of the Houston area.
Other suspected cases are being investigated. Indigenous transmission
has been demonstrated only in one case, in Kansas. The most recent
cases detected as well as the registered death suggest that more
serious cases could appear in the United States.
This virus has been described in the United States as a new subtype
of swine influenza A/H1N1 not previously detected in pigs or humans.
In addition, since the end of March 2009, Mexico observed an unusual
pattern of acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases, which increased
even more in the 1st weeks of April 2009. From 17 to 28 Apr [2009],
1551 suspected cases of influenza with severe pneumonia were
reported, including 84 deaths. These figures are smaller than those
reported yesterday [28 Apr 2009] due to the investigation work and
clean-up of data that are being carried out in field. The suspected
cases were recorded in 31 of the 32 states of Mexico.
There are 286 probable cases of swine influenza A/H1N1. Most of the
suspected cases of influenza with severe pneumonia have occurred in
the Federal District, Guanajuato, State of Mexico, and San Luis
Potosi, the majority of them in previously healthy young adult
people. There have been few cases in individuals under 3 or over 59
years old.
To date, the number of cases confirmed remains valid (26 cases).
However, this figure can significantly vary on the next 2 days when
the laboratory tests of the probable cases under investigation are
completed.
Furthermore, the number of confirmed dead cases remains 7. This
figure is also subject to variation depending on the new laboratory
information.
In Canada to date, 13 human cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 have been
confirmed (2 in Alberta, 4 in the province of New Scotland, 3 in
British Columbia and 4 in Ontario), some of them with recent trip
history to Cancun, Mexico. All the cases developed a mild form of
influenza like illness. Two of the cases presented, in addition,
gastrointestinal symptoms. All of them are currently recovered, and
none required hospitalization. Laboratory tests were conducted in
Winnipeg, Canada. Indigenous transmission is not discarded since not
all the confirmed cases have trip history to Mexico.
The press has reported information on suspected cases in several
countries of the region; however this information has not been
confirmed.
In relation to the laboratory results; in the 2 1st confirmed cases
in the United States, virus A/California/04/2009 and
A/California/05/2009 were isolated. They show a pattern of genetic
reassortment of a virus of swine influenza from the Americas with a
swine influenza virus from Eurasia. This particular genetic
combination had not been detected in the past. Both proved to be
resistant to amantadine and rimantadine, but sensitive to
neuraminidase inhibitors, oseltamivir and zanamivir. Both have been
cultured in MDCK cells and inoculated in ferrets for the production
of antisera. The complete genome of the virus A/California/04/2009
has been published and is available in the database of the GISAID
http://www.gisaid.org
The viruses of other confirmed cases in the United States correspond
to the same new strain.
In summary:
* There is evidence of circulation of a strain previously undetected
in pigs and humans.
* Studies are being conducted in order to determine the extent of
the human to human transmission.
Epidemiological surveillance and outbreak investigation in the
affected countries:
In the United States, investigations are being conducted to determine
the source of infection and whether there are additional cases. So
far, none of the cases have previous contact with pigs.
On the other hand in Mexico, prevention and control measures are
being coordinated, including intensified surveillance activities. As
a precautionary measure, the closing of day-care centers, schools,
and universities was enacted in the city of Mexico. Similarly, social
and cultural activities were suspended for a period of 10 days.
This new subtype of the virus could be circulating in the population
of pigs; which is being reviewed and investigated.
International Health Regulations (IHR)
The 2nd meeting of Emergency Committee was held on [27 Apr 2009]. The
Committee advised about the need of raising the alert level, and
accordingly the DG has raised the pandemic alert level from 3 to 4.
[See notice in section [1] of this update; the pandemic alert level
has been raised to [5] by the DG at approximately 3:45 PM GMT-4. -
Mod.MPP]
Efforts should be aimed at mitigating rather than trying to contain
the virus, because it has spread quite far, and containment is no
longer feasible.
The Director-General recommends not closing borders or restricting
travel. However, it is prudent for people who are sick to delay
travel. Moreover, returning travelers who have become sick should
seek medical attention in line with guidance from national
authorities.
Production of seasonal vaccine should continue, but at same time, WHO
should facilitate the process to develop vaccine for swine influenza
A/H1N1.
The Committee will continue to advise the DG on the basis of the
available information.
Recommendations: Enhanced surveillance
* Clusters of cases of ILI/SARI of unknown cause
* Severe respiratory disease occurring in one or more health workers
* Changes in the epidemiology of mortality associated with ILI/SARI;
increase of observed deaths by respiratory diseases; or increase of
the emergence of severe respiratory disease in previously healthy
adults/adolescents
* Persistent changes observed in the response to the treatment or
evolution of a SARI.
The following risk factors should also cause suspicion of swine
influenza A/H1N1 virus:
* Close contact with a confirmed case of swine influenza A/H1N1
while the case was sick
* Recent travel to an area where there are confirmed cases of swine
influenza A/H1N1
Virological surveillance of swine influenza A/H1NI:
It is recommended that National Influenza Centers (NIC) immediately
submit to the WHO Collaborating Center for influenza (CDC of the
United States) all positive but un-subtypable specimens of influenza
A. Shipment procedures are the same as those used by NICs for
seasonal influenza specimens.
The test protocols for the detection of seasonal influenza by
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) cannot confirm swine influenza A/H1N1
cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United
Sates are preparing testing kits that will include the primers and
probes as well as the required positive control samples. The kits
will be sent in the 1st week of May to those NICs that currently use
the CDC protocol.
Infection prevention and control in health care facilities:
Since the main form of transmission of this disease is by droplets,
it is recommended strengthening the basic precautions to prevent
their dissemination, for example the hygiene of hands, adequate
triage in the health facilities, environmental controls, and the
rational use of the personal protective equipment in accordance with
the local regulations.
The complete guides “Epidemic-prone & pandemic-prone acute
respiratory diseases, Infection prevention & control in health-care
facilities” are available at:
http://new.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=805&Itemid=569
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
******
[4] USA confirmed cases
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: CDC Swine flu webpage [edited]
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
Swine Influenza (Flu); Swine Flu website last updated 29 Apr 2009, 11:00 AM ET
U.S. Human Cases of Swine Flu Infection (As of 29 Apr 2009, 11:00 AM ET)
States: number of laboratory confirmed cases / Deaths
Arizona: 1 / 0
California: 14 / 0
Indiana: 1 / 0
Kansas: 2 / 0
Massachusetts: 2 / 0
Michigan: 2 / 0
Nevada: 1 / 0
New York City: 51 / 0
Ohio: 1 / 0
Texas: 16 / 1
Total counts: 91 cases / 1 death
The outbreak of disease in people caused by a new influenza virus of
swine origin continues to grow in the United States and
internationally. Today, CDC reports additional confirmed human
infections, hospitalizations and the nation’s 1st fatality from this
outbreak. The more recent illnesses and the reported death suggest
that a pattern of more severe illness associated with this virus may
be emerging in the U.S. Most people will not have immunity to this
new virus and, as it continues to spread, more cases, more
hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and
weeks.
CDC has implemented its emergency response. The agency’s goals are to
reduce transmission and illness severity and provide information to
help health care providers, public health officials and the public
address the challenges posed by the new virus. Yesterday [28 Apr
2009], CDC issued new interim guidance for clinicians on how to care
for children and pregnant women who may be infected with this virus.
Young children and pregnant women are 2 groups of people who are at
high risk of serious complications from seasonal influenza. In
addition, CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)
continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and
respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories
to help them respond to the outbreak. The swine influenza A (H1N1)
virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir
and zanamivir. This is a rapidly evolving situation, and CDC will
provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available.
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
******
[5] Mexico - MOH press releases
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: Press Communication, Ministry of Health Mexico [trans. by
Mod.MPP, edited]
http://portal.salud.gob.mx/redirector?tipo=0&n_seccion=Boletines&seccion=2009-04-29_3874.html
[29 Apr 2009] Press Communication No. 135
This conforms with laboratory analyses of specimens from presumptive
cases of porcine influenza or swine flu by the Ministry of Health.
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
[According to a press release from 28 Apr 2009
http://portal.salud.gob.mx/redirector?tipo=0&n_seccion=Boletines&seccion=2009-04-28_3875.html
there were officially 2498 cases of severe atypical pneumonia
reported nationally as of 28 Apr 2009, of which 159 had died.
According to this report, information combined from the IMSS (Mexican
Social Security Institute), ISSSTE (Mexican Institute of Security and
Social Services for Government Employees), National Institutes of
Health, as well as federal entities, as of 28 Apr 2008, there were
1311 persons presently hospitalized (for pneumonia).
These numbers are significantly higher than the stated number of
confirmed cases, 26 according to reports from WHO and PAHO (see
http://new.paho.org/hq/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1283&Itemid=569
for the PAHO updated figures).
******
[6] Canada PHA confirmed cases
Date: 29 Apr 2009
Source: Public Health Agency, Canada [edited]
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine-porcine/surveillance-eng.php
[29 Apr 2009] Cases of Human Swine Influenza in Canada
Province: Confirmed cases of human swine influenza
Alberta: 2
British Columbia: 6
Nova Scotia: 4
Ontario: 7
Total: 19
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
******
[7] News briefs - suspected cases
Date: 29 Apr 2009
The below links are to newswire reports on suspected cases of H1N1
(”swine flu”) reported by the media, not as yet confirmed:
Americas region:
Guatemala - one suspected case with history of travel to Mexico
http://insidecostarica.com/dailynews/2009/april/29/cam04.htm
Costa Rica - one “confirmed case” with history of travel to Mexico
reported by media on 28 Apr 2009 but not confirmed according to WHO
and PAHO data
http://www.laprensa.com.ni/archivo/2009/abril/28/noticias/ultimahora/324454.shtml
Colombia - 42 suspected cases, all with a history of travel to Mexico
http://www.prensa-latina.cu/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=77300&Itemid=1
Chile - 24 suspected cases
Brazil - 11 suspected cases
Bolivia - 2 suspected cases with history of travel to Mexico
Uruguay - 2nd suspected case under investigation
http://www.andaluciainformacion.es/portada/?a=48861&i=1
Europe:
Slovakia - one suspected case with history of travel to Mexico
http://www.tasr.sk/30.axd?k=20090429TBB00544
Belgium - 7 suspected cases, all with history of travel to Mexico or the USA
http://www.easybourse.com/bourse-actualite/sanofi-aventis/belgian-doctors-investigating-7-suspected-cases-of-swine-flu-FR0000120578-659591
France - 32 suspected cases, of which 2 are considered probable (the
2 probable had a history of travel to Mexico)
http://www.20minutes.fr/article/322865/France-Grippe-porcine-deux-cas-fortement-suspects-en-Ile-de-France.php
Poland - 3 suspected cases with history of travel to Mexico
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2009-04/29/content_11276133.htm
Oceana
Australia - 91 suspected cases
http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSTRE53S88X20090429
—
Communicated by:
ProMED-mail promed@promedmail.org
[To summarize the status of confirmed cases and suspected cases as
best as one can (given the exponential growth of press releases and
press interviews leading to thousands of newswires): There are
presently 91 confirmed cases in the United States involving 10
States: Arizona (1), California (14), Indiana (1), Kansas (2),
Massachusetts (2), Michigan (2), Nevada (1), New York City (51), Ohio
(1), Texas (16, with 1 death in a Mexican child). The majority of
these cases have been relatively mild and self-limited infections. In
Mexico, there have been over 2498 reported cases of severe pneumonia
(hospitalized) in 31 of 32 States, with 159 reported fatalities.
According to the PAHO update, there are presently 286 probable cases,
with presently 26 confirmed by laboratory testing, of which 7 were
fatal. There have been 19 cases confirmed in Canada: Alberta (2),
British Columbia (6), Nova Scotia (4), Ontario (7). Not all of the
cases in Canada have a history of travel to Mexico, so indigenous
transmission is likely. All 19 cases have been mild with self-limited
illnesses.
In addition to the confirmed cases in North America, there are
confirmed cases in Europe: Austria (1), Germany (3), Spain (4) and
the United Kingdom (5); the Middle East: Israel (2); and Oceana: New
Zealand (3).
Suspected cases are being reported from many countries including
others in Latin America (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia,
Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Uruguay) and Europe (Belgium, France,
Poland, Slovakia, Poland) and Oceana (Australia).
At this point, any individual with a history of travel to a location
with known confirmed cases of the novel H1N1 virus who develops an
influenza-like illness (ILI) is considered a suspected cases until
results from laboratory testing are available. One would expect the
volume of reports of suspected cases to grow, as more and more
travelers return to their countries of origin, with a proportion of
them having ILI’s, an often observed illness following airline
flights. The challenge will be the early detection of human-to-human
transmission in these countries among those individuals without a
history of travel to countries with known human to human transmission
ongoing (Canada, USA, Mexico). - Mod.MPP]
[see also:
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: worldwide (06) 20090429.1614
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: worldwide (05) 20090428.1609
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: worldwide (04) 20090428.1601
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: worldwide (03) 20090428.1600
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: Worldwide (02) 20090427.1586
Influenza A (H1N1) “swine flu”: Worldwide 20090427.1583
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human: worldwide 20090426.1577
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human - New Zealand, susp 20090426.1574
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human - N America (04) 20090426.1569
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human - N America (03) 20090426.1566
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human - N America (02) 20090425.1557
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, human - N America 20090425.1552
Acute respiratory disease - Mexico, swine virus susp 20090424.1546
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, swine, human - USA (02): (CA, TX) 20090424.1541
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, swine, human - USA: (CA) 20090422.1516
Influenza A (H1N1) virus, swine, human - Spain 20090220.0715
2008
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