Researchers have discovered the presence of the BlaKPC gene in bacteria in patients in a St. Louis hospital. Prior to this, the gene, which enables bacteria to become resistant to several important antibiotics, was typically found in the East Coast. Researchers say this discovery may indicate that BlaKPC is gaining strength and spreading.
The investigation of an outbreak of unknown origin in Angola has revealed extremely high levels of bromide in plasma sampled from several affected patients.
As of 19 November 2007, over 390 cases had been identified and treated at the Municipal Hospital in Cacuaco. About 64% of those affected are children below 15 years old.
Toxicological tests carried out in Munich, Germany, detected very high levels of bromide in 5 out of 6 plasma samples taken from affected patients. Bromide intoxication has been one of the working hypotheses being explored by WHO and partners as a cause of the outbreak.
Ping to MamaDearest’s post (TB, etc.):
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1919875/posts?page=1080#1080
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1919875/posts?page=1081#1081