A recently released report shows that over 100 people in Mexico have died from causes related to Swine Flu. There have been 73 confirmed cases worldwide with 40 cases documented in the United States, primarily in California, Texas, and Kansas. The last reported U.S. concern for this illness was in 1976, during the Ford Administration. Let’s take a look at an illness that is governing present news media coverage.
What is swine flu? This is a respiratory illness in pigs caused by a strain of Influenza A. This usually only affects pigs, but sometimes humans can get it from close contact with pigs. While it previously was not passed from human to human, this time the virus has mutated and is able to do so. This respiratory illness is spread from infected pigs and from humans through respiratory droplets. At this time, it is not known how easily it can be transmitted from human to human.
When a child is ill, parents often turn to family members, the Internet or a nurse help line for initial answers. But often a nagging question remains — should I seek medical attention, or emergency treatment, for my child?
Fortunately, during my nearly 20 years in the Emergency Room I’ve rarely diagnosed a serious disease in a young child. There have, however, been instances — such as the time a child was brought in because he experienced a seizure — his first —and tests revealed the cause was a brain tumor. And I’ve seen children who appear to have the flu, which is actually new onset diabetes.
Many parents worry about “abusing” the medical system — they’re afraid of bringing their child in too often. However, it’s important for parents to understand that there are times when your child needs medical attention — sometimes emergency medical treatment. Trust your parental instincts. If your child just doesn’t look right to you, then your child should be evaluated.
During nearly every Emergency Department shift I deal with genitourinary problems and pregnancy complications. Usually, common infections are found. But sometimes, less common infections - such as bacterial mycoplasma and ureaplasma infections - are diagnosed.
What are these infections? Mycoplasmas are some of the smallest living organisms that, unlike most bacteria, do not have cell walls - instead they live within other live cells. A close relative is ureaplasma. Both of these organisms can be found in up to 70% of sexually active adults. But when there is significant overgrowth problems can occur, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, urethritis and pregnancy loss.
Because mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas naturally occur in the body, patients are not routinely tested for the bacteria. However, women who experience infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, pelvic pain, premenstrual symptoms or vaginal symptoms should be tested. A culture test, similar to a pap test, is taken.
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