Sindh High Court on Wednesday issued notices to provincial Health Secretary, IG Prisons and others on a petition pertaining to the medical treatment of prisoners suffering from Hepatitis B & C at Khairpur prison.
The court also directed IG Prisons and Jail Superintendent to take the matter on priority basis and initiate practical steps to control the spread of the disease.
SHC division bench comprising Chief Justice Sabihuddin Ahmed and Justice Faisal Arab, expressed dissatisfaction over the existing health facilities in jails, also sought positive proposals from the enlightened members of civil society for providing better health facilities to prisoners suffering from Hepatitis B & C as well as controlling other fatal diseases. read more
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Human Genome Sciences Completes Enrollment of First Phase III Albuferon Trial
Human Genome Sciences announced that it has completed enrollment and initial dosing ahead of schedule in ACHIEVE 1, the first of two pivotal Phase III trials of Albuferon in combination with ribavirin in treatment-naïve patients with chronic hepatitis C.
Human Genome Sciences and Novartis are codeveloping Albuferon (albinterferon alfa-2b) under an exclusive worldwide agreement made in June 2006.
According to Human Genome Sciences, 1,331 patients at 150 clinical sites in 12 countries have been enrolled and randomized in ACHIEVE 1. ACHIEVE 2/3 was initiated in February, and will enroll and randomize a minimum of 918 patients with genotypes 2 and 3 chronic hepatitis C, the company added. read more
Human Genome Sciences and Novartis are codeveloping Albuferon (albinterferon alfa-2b) under an exclusive worldwide agreement made in June 2006.
According to Human Genome Sciences, 1,331 patients at 150 clinical sites in 12 countries have been enrolled and randomized in ACHIEVE 1. ACHIEVE 2/3 was initiated in February, and will enroll and randomize a minimum of 918 patients with genotypes 2 and 3 chronic hepatitis C, the company added. read more
Vietnam:Korean Hepatitis B vaccines killed three childern
Additionally, deputy health minister Cao Minh Quang recently said that Korean Hepatitis B vaccines suspected to have killed three children in April and May were found to be safe by both French and Vietnamese labs.
Since May, the ministry has suspended the use of the vaccines supplied by Korean LG Life Company throughout Vietnam.read more
Growth in Cuban Biotechnology
The Cuban biotechnology sector has seen growth totalling 162 million Cuban pesos over the past two years, 75 million in 2005 and 87 million in 2006.
One of the leading products is the Hepatitis B vaccine. 170 million doses have been produced to date, and the Cuban product has been used in many WHO campaigns.
The sector produces numerous drugs which not only serve public health in Cuba, but also constitute the country's second largest export area.read more
Hospital launches infection investigation
AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a gynaecologist who was a carrier of the hepatitis C virus operated on patients working at Boston's Pilgrim Hospital.
The hospital refused to name the surgeon, but revealed the period of the suspected risk ran from early 2000 to July 2007.
Of the 62 women possibly affected, 53 have so far been tracked down and tested.
In a statement released this morning (Thursday) the United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust said: "This gynaecologist who was a carrier of the hepatitis C virus has previously passed on this infection to a small number of patients, one of whom went on to develop liver disease and tragically died.
read more
Possibly 500 Dutch patients infected with HIV, hepatitis B or C
Amsterdam - Some 500 patients of hospitals in Oss and Veghel in the southern Netherlands have possibly been infected with the HIV virus or hepatitis B or C, Dutch press reports said Friday city hospital and health authorities.
On Thursday the regional daily newspaper Brabants Dagblad reported the possible infection took place due to inadequate disinfection machines.
Both hospitals were the first in the Netherlands to purchase a new type of washing machine used to disinfect medical equipment. read more
On Thursday the regional daily newspaper Brabants Dagblad reported the possible infection took place due to inadequate disinfection machines.
Both hospitals were the first in the Netherlands to purchase a new type of washing machine used to disinfect medical equipment. read more
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Infection Canine Hepatitis
Canine hepatitis is a disease of the liver and other body organs caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). The virus is found worldwide and is spread by body fluids including nasal discharge and urine. Recovered patients can shed the virus for up to nine months in the urine. The primary mode of transmission is by direct contact with an infected dog. Contaminated runs, cages, dishes, hands, boots, etc. can also serve as a source of transmission.read more
Toray Progress in Development of Hepatitis C Virus Vaccine
Tokyo, Aug 27, 2007 (JCN) - Toray Industries <3402> announced on August 22 that the company confirmed for the first time in the world that hepatitis C virus (HCV) particles produced using a novel HCV culture system inactivated have the potential for practical use as an HCV vaccine in experiments using mice.
The culture system was established through the company's joint research on the development of an HCV vaccine with the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) and the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Neuroscience (TMIN), Tokyo Metropolitan Organization for Medical Research.
Since its 2005 world-first in vitro cultivation of HCV with TMIN, Toray has been seeking the potential of HCV particlest for use as an HCV vaccine in collaboration with NIID. read more
The culture system was established through the company's joint research on the development of an HCV vaccine with the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) and the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Neuroscience (TMIN), Tokyo Metropolitan Organization for Medical Research.
Since its 2005 world-first in vitro cultivation of HCV with TMIN, Toray has been seeking the potential of HCV particlest for use as an HCV vaccine in collaboration with NIID. read more
Let's prey the brave girl
Charlotte Worton.AN inspirational 16-year-old who revised while recovering from a liver transplant is celebrating after passing her GCSEs.
Who had a rare condition called autoimmune hepatitis - an inflammation of the liver - had her first transplant at Birmingham Children's Hospital.
She was fine until last September.
But she had to go into hospital because her eyes started to go a tinge of yellow.
She did a biopsy and they said her body was rejecting her liver.
Despite doctors trying different medication, Charlotte's condition deteriorated and at one point her name was removed from the transplant list because she was so ill.
She battled through and had a second transplant.
Charlotte said she has never felt better and in September is returning to Stourport High School to do her A-levels, which she hopes to use to become a social worker or counsellor, helping other people recover from organ transplants.
read more
Pakistani's sewerage
A World Bank engineer of Pakistani origin, extremely knowledgeable about Pakistan’s infrastructures, has been obsessed with disposal of sewerage and waste. He contends that all sewerage and waste is either being dumped or consumed within the population centres or is being thrown in the rivers, canals and watercourses. Consequently, forty percent of the population is afflicted with Hepatitis B or C and the country is the highest consumer of antibiotics. If the trend continues, every section of Pakistani society will be unhealthy and the average age will decline sharply.read more
FDA Approves New Roche Diagnostics Blood Screening
Roche Diagnostics is the leading provider of PCR-based nucleic acid tests for the international blood bank market. Nucleic acid-based tests enable more highly sensitive detection of active HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B infections than conventional antibody or antigen assays. Roche assays have been used by the Japanese Red Cross since 1999 to screen Japan's entire blood supply. In 2006, Roche launched the automated cobas s 201 system and the 5-parameter multiplex cobas TaqScreen MPX Test in Europe for the most comprehensive single-assay detection of HIV-1 groups M & O, HIV-2, and Hepatitis B and C in donated blood and plasma. The West Nile Virus test is the first test available on the automated cobas s 201 system in the US, where the multiplex HIV, HCV, and HBV test is currently under FDA review.read more
Iran manufactures hepatitis C cure
Iranian pharmaceutical researchers have managed to manufacture polyethylene glycol molecule, a key substance in treating hepatitis C.
This molecule is used in the pegylated interferon combination therapy.
Dr. Seyyed Mohsen Nayebpour, deputy head of The Growth Center for Pharmaceutical Technology Units at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, told Mehr news agency that while working on the process of manufacturing pegylated interferon, scientists were able to discover how polyethylene glycol is produced. read more
Wash your hands of germs
Most germs found on the hands are harmless, but bacteria and viruses responsible for everyday illnesses, such as colds and stomach upsets, are easily transferred from hand to hand and then onto every surface.
The spread of these and more serious illnesses, such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A,hepatitis B and most types of infectious diarrhea, can be stopped by the simple act of washing your hands.
Wash them thoroughly several times a day with soap and warm water, especially after the following activities: before eating or handling food; after using the lava-tory, blow-ing your nose, coughing or sneezing; after touching animals, rubbish or changing a nappy; and before and after visiting or taking care of any sick friends or relatives. read more
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Angelina Jolie Hepatitis
Star Magazine reports that Brad Pitt fears that ninety pound Angelina Jolie is suffering from the liver disease Hepatitis.
According to the Star source, Brad “convinced Angelina to go see a doctor because he was afraid something was very wrong with her. She doesn’t have much of an appetite and is eating very little.”
“Tests were run and Brad’s family were led to believe that her illness might be something like hepatitis, but since then he’s clammed up, I think he knows what’s wrong, but he’s keeping it from people.” read more
Immunisation
Oil India Limited, Duliajan, has immunised more than 7,000 primary school students with Hepatitis-B vaccines free of cost in Namsai sub-division of Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.
The two-week-long programme started on August 7. All primary school students, including government and private schools, were provided the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Namsai legislator Chow Pingthika Namchoom, additional deputy commissioner R.K. Sharma and panchayat leaders have applauded the immunisation drive. Sharma requested the OIL authorities to provide the Hepatitis B vaccines for the students of Lekang and Wakro circles so that entire Namsai sub-division could be covered under this programme. read more
The two-week-long programme started on August 7. All primary school students, including government and private schools, were provided the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine.
Namsai legislator Chow Pingthika Namchoom, additional deputy commissioner R.K. Sharma and panchayat leaders have applauded the immunisation drive. Sharma requested the OIL authorities to provide the Hepatitis B vaccines for the students of Lekang and Wakro circles so that entire Namsai sub-division could be covered under this programme. read more
Hepatitis risk at trade show
Whatcom County residents who attended the 43rd annual USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show in San Jose, Calif., earlier this month might have been exposed to hepatitis A.
The Whatcom County Health Department issued an alert Monday after learning of the Hepatitis risk and that local residents may have been in attendance.
Anyone who drank fruit smoothies distributed by the Jump Sport booth at the trade show Aug. 16 and 17 or who ate or drank at the Jamba Juice store at 1140 Lincoln Ave. there might have been exposed by an employee, according to the health department. read more
Smoothies at gymnastics event may have been tainted with hepatitis A
From a Times Staff Writer Complimentary smoothies handed out at the USA Gymnastics National Congress and Trade Show at the HP Pavilion on Aug. 16 and 17 may have been contaminated with hepatitis A, state health officials said Monday.
The smoothies, provided at the JumpSport booth, were prepared at a Willow Glen-area Jamba Juice by an employee diagnosed with hepatitis A.
Though the risk appears minimal, the California Department of Public Health said that people who consumed the drinks should monitor their health. read more
The smoothies, provided at the JumpSport booth, were prepared at a Willow Glen-area Jamba Juice by an employee diagnosed with hepatitis A.
Though the risk appears minimal, the California Department of Public Health said that people who consumed the drinks should monitor their health. read more
About Albuferon
Albuferon is a novel long-acting form of interferon alpha created by HGS using its proprietary albumin fusion technology. Albuferon results from the genetic fusion of human albumin and interferon alpha. Human albumin is the most prevalent naturally occurring blood protein in the human circulatory system, persisting in circulation in the body for more than 20 days. Research shows that genetic fusion of therapeutic proteins to human albumin decreases clearance and prolongs the half-life of the proteins. Recombinant interferon alpha is approved for the treatment of hepatitis C, hepatitis B and a number of cancers.read more
Onyx: Nexavar trial shows potential
It's higher in the Asia-Pacific region, because of a greater prevalence of hepatitis B hepatitis C infection which causes the number of liver cancer incidence to rise.
Nexavar is seen as a drug with great potential because it is often compared to the blockbuster drug Avastin, manufactured by biotechnology giant Genentech. Both drugs target a tumor cell's ability to grow by cutting off its blood supply. One potential advantage Nexavar has over Avastin, is that it's taken orally versus intravenously at a medical clinc.
Last year the Nexavar was given "fast track" status, which allows the approval process to be sped up.
This designation is given to drugs that treat serious or life-threatening diseases where there is an unmet medical need. Liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the world, and is the most prevalent in developing countries.read more
Nexavar is seen as a drug with great potential because it is often compared to the blockbuster drug Avastin, manufactured by biotechnology giant Genentech. Both drugs target a tumor cell's ability to grow by cutting off its blood supply. One potential advantage Nexavar has over Avastin, is that it's taken orally versus intravenously at a medical clinc.
Last year the Nexavar was given "fast track" status, which allows the approval process to be sped up.
This designation is given to drugs that treat serious or life-threatening diseases where there is an unmet medical need. Liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the world, and is the most prevalent in developing countries.read more
Monday, August 27, 2007
Hepatitis in Dogs
Hepatitis, a disease of the liver that is seen in several animals, including humans, is caused by a viral infection. Canine hepatitis is caused by the virus designated CAV-1 which is seen only in dogs. Humans and other animals are not at risk to contract hepatitis from the CAV-1 virus.
Once a dog is infected, there is no treatment that will destroy the CAV-1 virus. There is no cure. There is, however, a very good vaccine that can be given to puppies when they start their series of inoculations. The vaccine has greatly reduced incidents of canine hepatitis in the United States and Western Europe.
Like many viruses, CAV-1 first localizes and replicates in the lymph nodes and spreads into the bloodstream from there. Once in the blood, CAV-1 attacks several organs, most notably the liver, eyes, and kidneys. Although hepatitis is a very serious disease, not all cases of CAV-1 infection lead to it and not all are serious. Some dogs show few or no symptoms after being infected. Some, on the other hand, especially young puppies, become seriously ill.read more
Once a dog is infected, there is no treatment that will destroy the CAV-1 virus. There is no cure. There is, however, a very good vaccine that can be given to puppies when they start their series of inoculations. The vaccine has greatly reduced incidents of canine hepatitis in the United States and Western Europe.
Like many viruses, CAV-1 first localizes and replicates in the lymph nodes and spreads into the bloodstream from there. Once in the blood, CAV-1 attacks several organs, most notably the liver, eyes, and kidneys. Although hepatitis is a very serious disease, not all cases of CAV-1 infection lead to it and not all are serious. Some dogs show few or no symptoms after being infected. Some, on the other hand, especially young puppies, become seriously ill.read more
Is Hepatitis A Vaccine Effective In Preventing Infectious Hepatitis?
HAV vaccine is very effective in protecting you against hepatitis A virus. It is generally available in injection form.
Remember that hepatitis A vaccine cannot protect you from other hepatitis types.
Consult your doctor if you have exposed to hepatitis A recently. Your doctor may prescribe an injection called immune globulin to treat the condition in early stages.
Immune globulin consists of high levels of antibodies that fight against Hepatitis A virus. Remember that immune globulin should be taken possibly within 2-6 weeks after you get infected with hepatitis A virus.read more
The Kampo boom, traditional Japanese phytotherapy comes of age
Of the many ancient holistic medical systems that have withstood the test of time, Kampo is one of the more successful ones, particularly in Japan. In a nationwide study of Japanese mainstream medical practitioners performed in October 2000, 72 percent regularly used Kampo medicines. Today, nearly 150 Kampo drugs are available for reimbursement under Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) program. Kampo is slowly making inroads into the West as well.
Today Kampo medicine is the focus of worldwide clinical research in an ever widening list of clinical conditions - Sho-saiko-to (H09) for the treatment of hepatitis C being researched at New York Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (phase II clinical trial), and in the treatment of hepatitis-C induced liver cirrhosis at the UCSD Liver Center. Kampo has been evaluated through placebo-controlled trials in the treatment of headaches, hypertension, fertility problems, insomnia, chronic fatigue, stress-related health problems, and numerous more trials are under way.read more
Medical Services International For The VScan TB and Hepatitis C Test Kits
Medical Services International Inc. (Pink Sheets: MSITF) wishes to announce that it has signed an agreement with a US biotech firm based in New Jersey that specializes in developing new products.
As part of the agreement this firm will be responsible for the completion of all necessary US testing required that hasn't been completed and filing of documents necessary to get the VScan TB and VScan Hepatitis C approved for use in the United States as medical device. This firm will be responsible for obtaining regulatory approval, marketing and distribution of the two VScan test kits.
The VScan rapid test kit is a single use, easy to use, test for the screening of HIV1&2, Hepatitis B&C, Tuberculosis (TB),Dengue Fever, Malaria, West Nile, Syphilis and Prostate Cancer.read more
As part of the agreement this firm will be responsible for the completion of all necessary US testing required that hasn't been completed and filing of documents necessary to get the VScan TB and VScan Hepatitis C approved for use in the United States as medical device. This firm will be responsible for obtaining regulatory approval, marketing and distribution of the two VScan test kits.
The VScan rapid test kit is a single use, easy to use, test for the screening of HIV1&2, Hepatitis B&C, Tuberculosis (TB),Dengue Fever, Malaria, West Nile, Syphilis and Prostate Cancer.read more
No pain, no gain: Straight facts on back-to-school immunizations
Adequate, timely vaccinations ward off 210,000 cases of preventable diseases and 660 deaths in Wisconsin each year, according to Gov. Jim Doyle's 2004 "KidsFirst" strategic plan. Immunizations in Wisconsin also save an estimated $210 million annually in direct health care costs every year.
"There are risks for disease transmission and appearance of these diseases to justify vaccinations," said Kellea Ewen, a nurse with the Manitowoc Public School District. "Within the last two school years, we have had a pertussis outbreak within our district and continue to see chickenpox [and] measles within the community."
The Wisconsin Student Immunization Law began in July 1975, with all new kindergartners required to get vaccinated against polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and measles, according to the Department of Health and Family Services. The law has since expanded to include shots preventing mumps, rubella, hepatitis B and Varicella.Especially,the hepatitis B.read more
Friday, August 24, 2007
China:CytoPharm Plans for Hepatitis C Clinical Trial
Amarillo Biosciences licensee in Taiwan and China is CytoPharm, Inc., a Taipei, Taiwan-based biopharmaceutical company whose parent company is Vita Genomics, Inc., the largest biotech company in Taiwan specializing in pharmacogenomics and specialty Clinical Research Organization. Both CytoPharm and Vita Genomics are affiliates of Ho Tung Chemical Corp. Ltd., one of the largest petrochemical companies in Taiwan, and a publicly traded company whose 2005 revenues exceeded NTD 35 billion.
Under the terms of the Agreement, between CytoPharm and ABI, CytoPharm and its subsidiary will conduct and fund all clinical trials, and seek regulatory approvals in both China and Taiwan (the Territory) to launch low dose oral interferon for influenza, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C indications. CytoPharm has entered into discussions with regulatory agencies in the Territory to conduct their first clinical trial in 152 hepatitis C patients. The trial is expected to commence in late 2007 or early 2008.
read more
Under the terms of the Agreement, between CytoPharm and ABI, CytoPharm and its subsidiary will conduct and fund all clinical trials, and seek regulatory approvals in both China and Taiwan (the Territory) to launch low dose oral interferon for influenza, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C indications. CytoPharm has entered into discussions with regulatory agencies in the Territory to conduct their first clinical trial in 152 hepatitis C patients. The trial is expected to commence in late 2007 or early 2008.
read more
Hepatitis D and Hepatitis B Information
CDC has useful fact sheets on Hepatitis A,B,C,D,E. Hepatitis A and D are food bourne (eating too much char koay teow with sea ham!) and the rest are blood born.
Vaccinations are currently available for Hepatitis A and B only. But since Hep D cannot survive with Hep B, you are protected against Hep D if you vaccinate for B.
read more
Vaccinations are currently available for Hepatitis A and B only. But since Hep D cannot survive with Hep B, you are protected against Hep D if you vaccinate for B.
read more
What is hepatitis b--hepatitis A Vaccine
Warning: New Hepatitis Vaccine Recs Can Devastate Newborn’s Health 1
Learn about the outrageous new recommendations for infant vaccinations. Can FucoTHIN Melt the FLAB Away?* FUCOTHIN Get ready to feel more energetic and look more attractive
patitis A Vaccine Recommendations
Early Release: 4/9/07 AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS P OLICY S TATEMENT Organizational Principles to Guide and Define the Child Health Care System and/or Improve the Health of All Children Committee
HEPATITIS B VACCINE DECLINATION/DOCUMENTATION
R N / C S T / L P N ) “Last Name” “First Name” T R A V E L E R A P P L I C A T I O N Part 1 or 2 must be completed prior to the start of an assignment with RN Network. I acknowledge that I am at riskread more
Learn about the outrageous new recommendations for infant vaccinations. Can FucoTHIN Melt the FLAB Away?* FUCOTHIN Get ready to feel more energetic and look more attractive
patitis A Vaccine Recommendations
Early Release: 4/9/07 AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS P OLICY S TATEMENT Organizational Principles to Guide and Define the Child Health Care System and/or Improve the Health of All Children Committee
HEPATITIS B VACCINE DECLINATION/DOCUMENTATION
R N / C S T / L P N ) “Last Name” “First Name” T R A V E L E R A P P L I C A T I O N Part 1 or 2 must be completed prior to the start of an assignment with RN Network. I acknowledge that I am at riskread more
Drug in New Hepatitis C Clinical Trial
BRISBANE, Australia, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Physicians at Southern Health have started a phase IIa clinical trial designed to test the efficacy of a new strategy for defeating hepatitis C viral infection, one of the toughest infectious diseases in the modern world.
Implicit Bioscience's drug, oglufanide disodium, which works as a regulator of the body's immune response, is being given by intranasal administration to patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection.read more
Implicit Bioscience's drug, oglufanide disodium, which works as a regulator of the body's immune response, is being given by intranasal administration to patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection.read more
Calif.bais ruling supports employers
SAN FRANCISCO—Plaintiffs who claim disability discrimination under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act must prove they are qualified to perform the job’s essential function with or without reasonable accommodation, the California Supreme Court ruled.
Mr. Green was a stationary engineer for the state Department of Corrections at the California Institute for Men, located in Chino, Calif. After he returned to his job following a work-related injury in 2000, the institute’s work coordinator discovered a 1997’s doctor’s report, which followed Mr. Green’s treatment for hepatitis, recommending him for light duty only.
That same day, Mr. Green came to her office complaining of fatigue because of the hepatitis. She later sent him a letter telling him he could not return to his position unless he could be cleared for full duty. A subsequent request by Mr. Green to return to work was denied, and he filed a disability discrimination claim with the state’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing and a complaint for damages in state superior court.
At trial, the judge did not instruct the jury that Mr. Green must prove he was qualified for the position, according to the opinion. The jury awarded Mr. Green $597,000 in economic damages and $2 million in noneconomic damages.read more
Mr. Green was a stationary engineer for the state Department of Corrections at the California Institute for Men, located in Chino, Calif. After he returned to his job following a work-related injury in 2000, the institute’s work coordinator discovered a 1997’s doctor’s report, which followed Mr. Green’s treatment for hepatitis, recommending him for light duty only.
That same day, Mr. Green came to her office complaining of fatigue because of the hepatitis. She later sent him a letter telling him he could not return to his position unless he could be cleared for full duty. A subsequent request by Mr. Green to return to work was denied, and he filed a disability discrimination claim with the state’s Department of Fair Employment and Housing and a complaint for damages in state superior court.
At trial, the judge did not instruct the jury that Mr. Green must prove he was qualified for the position, according to the opinion. The jury awarded Mr. Green $597,000 in economic damages and $2 million in noneconomic damages.read more
Recommended vaccines for children
At birth your child will receive the first shot of the HBV vaccine. HBV refers to hepatitis B virus which infects the liver and during adulthood can cause liver cancer and death. The vaccine against this virus consists of 3 shots. The first shot is given at birth, the second between 1 and 2 months and the third between 6 to 18 months. It is important not to skip any of the 2 or 3 shot or else the previous vaccination will be ineffective.read more
British beaches suffer flood sewage
A snapshot survey of 553 beaches by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has found that one in eight beaches - 71 in all - had been blighted by short-term pollution during the first half of the summer.
According to the World Health Organisation, faecal contamination can cause gastroenteritis, breathing difficulties and diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid.
Testing of bathing waters is to continue until the end of September. A final report is to be published next May. A beach fails EC water standards if more than one of ten water samples exceed permitted thresholds for faecal or coliform bacteria.read more
Drug deaths too high in Downtown Eastside: study
VANCOUVER -- A report on illegal drug use in Vancouver says deaths were down in Vancouver and the rest of hepatitis B.C. for 2006.
However, residents of the Downtown Eastside don't fare well in the report from the Canadian Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use. It says residents there have seven times the provincial rate of drug-induced deaths and a 33 per cent higher death rate than the rest of the province.
Vancouver's rate of newly diagnosed hepatitis C cases declined from 2006 and new cases of HIV were down from 2005 in connection to intravenous drug use. read more
Nearly 3,500 lack up-to-date immunizations in Balto.—
School starts next week in Baltimore, but records show nearly 3,500 students aren't up to date on their immunizations.
The number includes more than 2,100 high school students who need shots for chickenpox and hepatitis B.
School officials say the numbers are much lower than they were at this time last year and say some parents have called to say they will supply updated immunization records on Monday.
Stepped-up shot requirements took effect in Maryland in January.read more
The number includes more than 2,100 high school students who need shots for chickenpox and hepatitis B.
School officials say the numbers are much lower than they were at this time last year and say some parents have called to say they will supply updated immunization records on Monday.
Stepped-up shot requirements took effect in Maryland in January.read more
Angelina Jolie Suffering From Deadly Liver Disease?
Star magazine is quoting a ‘friend’ of Brad’s who claims that the actor fears that his girlfriend is suffering from liver disease Hepatitis.
According to their source, Brad “convinced Angelina to go see a doctor because he was afraid something was very wrong with her. She doesn’t have much of an appetite and is eating very little.
"Tests were run and Brad’s family were led to believe that her illness might be something like hepatitis, but since then he’s clammed up, I think he knows what’s wrong, but he’s keeping it from people.”read more
Jamba warns of hepatitis A exposure
Santa Clara County health officials warned Thursday that customers of the Jamba Juice on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Willow Street may have been exposed to hepatitis A and should see their doctor.
County health officials said the risk to the public is low, but they are recommending some customers either get a hepatitis A vaccine or an immune globulin shot. The company said it has disposed of all food products, thoroughly cleaned the store and brought in replacement workers until the store's employees are also treated.
Symptoms of the hepatitis A virus can show up between 15 days and 50 days after exposure, and include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, fever and loss of appetite. If someone does contract the virus, it will usually pass without serious harm.read more
County health officials said the risk to the public is low, but they are recommending some customers either get a hepatitis A vaccine or an immune globulin shot. The company said it has disposed of all food products, thoroughly cleaned the store and brought in replacement workers until the store's employees are also treated.
Symptoms of the hepatitis A virus can show up between 15 days and 50 days after exposure, and include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, fever and loss of appetite. If someone does contract the virus, it will usually pass without serious harm.read more
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Is the Hpatitis B carrier can't became a priest
Due to my nephew is a hepatitis b carrer,he was kicked outta the theological college by such reason,his parish's priest say he can never become priest with such disease,and call him to quit.All of my relatives angry about this.
Oh,it's unfair,is the Hpatitis B carrier can't became a priest?read more
Oh,it's unfair,is the Hpatitis B carrier can't became a priest?read more
Government Proposes to Include Hepatitis B in National Immunisation Programme
Hepatitis B disease does not have any effective treatment but there is a highly safe and effective vaccine, which can prevent hepatitis B infection and its serious consequences like liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Administering Hepatitis B vaccine to all infants in National Immunization Programme would save more than 1.5 million (15 lakhs) chronic Hepatitis B infections and more than 0.2 million (2 lakhs) deaths due to Hepatitis B.
The country would need more than 6 million doses of Hepatitis B vaccine per year. To vaccinate all infants the country would require approx 100 million doses.
At present five-vaccine manufacturing institutions are manufacturing the Hepatitis B vaccine in the country. The combined installed capacity of the five institutions is 5160 lakhs doses per annum. read more
Health Hazards of International Travel
With the increasing number of people traveling internationally, the risk of diseases carried across national boundaries also increases. The global society brings with itself global health risks as well.
Among the travel-related diseases most frequently mentioned in the press stories are malaria, travelers' diarrhea, hepatitis A, HIV, various STDs, typhoid, and meningitis.The NPHF paper warned that most travelers do not know anything about such risks and when they do become aware of the danger, it usually proves to be too late.
Only a handful of travelers made sure they received any shots before they flew abroad: 11% for tetanus, 14% for hepatitis A, 13% for hepatitis B, and 5% for yellow fever. 58.4% and 68.7% of travelers reported that they did not receive protection against hepatitis A or hepatitis B, respectivelyread more
HCV viral load before therapy associated with post-treatment relapse in HIV/HCV coinfected
HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfected patients who have a high HCV load at the start of treatment for hepatitis C are the group of patients most likely to experience a relapse of their HCV infection, say Spanish researchers writing in the August 1st edition of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes.
Response to anti-HCV treatment after a month is also a good predictor of relapse but longer than standard duration of hepatitis C therapy does not improve the chances of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients clearing the virus,
One surprising finding was that HCV/HIV coinfected patients taking potent antiretroviral therapt at the same time as their HCV treatment were more likely to relapse (p = 0.04). The authors say that finding could indirectly reflect patients with more advanced HIV disease who may have lost some of the immune function involved in therapy-induced HCV clearance.read more
Response to anti-HCV treatment after a month is also a good predictor of relapse but longer than standard duration of hepatitis C therapy does not improve the chances of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients clearing the virus,
One surprising finding was that HCV/HIV coinfected patients taking potent antiretroviral therapt at the same time as their HCV treatment were more likely to relapse (p = 0.04). The authors say that finding could indirectly reflect patients with more advanced HIV disease who may have lost some of the immune function involved in therapy-induced HCV clearance.read more
Physician Calls for Premarital Hepatitis Test
JEDDAH, 23 August 2007 — Saudi consultant Dr. Khaled Al-Qahtani, head of the liver unit at King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh, is calling for a hepatitis test to be added to the premarital medical tests, which include tests for genetic compatibility due to the propensity for consanguineous marriages in Saudi society.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 80 percent of hepatitis patients allow their disease to become a chronic and 20 percent develop cirrhosis; five percent of the 20 percent would have liver cancer in the following 10 years of their lives.
Hepatitis is a highly infectious disease that is easier to contract than AIDS. It is transmitted by blood and other body fluids.
There are vaccinations for Hepatitis, but they involve a series of three shots over a six-month period and many people are not vaccinated against the infection.read more
Maryland:Billboard Campaign Calls Attention To Hepatitis C
A billboard campaign that Maryland state officials hope will raise awareness of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) began appearing this week in the Baltimore area.
"There are ways to protect your liver and avoid transmitting HCV,� said Dr. Michelle A. Gourdine, DHMH deputy secretary for Public Health Services.�If you are at risk, a simple blood test is a good way to learn your status.
"Complications of HCV infection are a serious health burden in our state," Dr. Gourdine said. "That�s why it is so important to help all Marylanders be aware of this important public health problem."read more
"There are ways to protect your liver and avoid transmitting HCV,� said Dr. Michelle A. Gourdine, DHMH deputy secretary for Public Health Services.�If you are at risk, a simple blood test is a good way to learn your status.
"Complications of HCV infection are a serious health burden in our state," Dr. Gourdine said. "That�s why it is so important to help all Marylanders be aware of this important public health problem."read more
More tattoo clients sue
More clients of an Oshawa tattoo and body-piercing parlour shut down by Durham health officials have joined a $10-million class-action lawsuit.
Longhorn Custom Bodyart Studio was closed after failing sterilization tests, but re-opened a couple of weeks ago after passing new tests.
Up to 2,000 clients who went to Longhorn between Nov. 17 and Aug. 1 were urged by the Durham Region's health department to get blood tests for hepatitis B, C and HIV after it was determined the sterilization equipment had malfunctioned in that time period.
read more
Longhorn Custom Bodyart Studio was closed after failing sterilization tests, but re-opened a couple of weeks ago after passing new tests.
Up to 2,000 clients who went to Longhorn between Nov. 17 and Aug. 1 were urged by the Durham Region's health department to get blood tests for hepatitis B, C and HIV after it was determined the sterilization equipment had malfunctioned in that time period.
read more
Dirty hypodermic needle infects Palestinian prisoner with disease
The wife of Othman Suleiman, a Palestinian prisoner serving a lifetime sentence in Israeli detention camps, spoke with grave sorrow over the health condition of her husband.Hepatitis C occurred to him.
The suffering, Mrs Suleiman says, started several months ago, when her husband, 33, became very sick, and was transported to a military hospital located near the detention camp he was held in. The Israeli doctors in the military hospital diagnosed Suleiman with an advanced case of the Hepatitis C liver disease.
read more
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
What is Hepatitis A - Hepatitis B - Hepatitis C
Hepatitis A - An inflammatory viral disease of the liver with a short incubation period. Hepatitis A may be transmitted by eating contaminated food, by fecal-oral contact, and/or through household contact. Hepatitis A may be mild to severe; symptoms include fever, nausea, and jaundice.
Hepatitis B - Formerly called serum hepatitis, it is caused by the hepatitis B virus. About 12% of cases progress to chronic hepatitis. It is spread through shared needles, through sexual contact with infected individuals, through exposure to infected body fluids, and from mother to child. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, jaundice, and elevated liver enzymes.
Hepatitis C - is a life-threatening, disease of the liver, which is transmitted by exposure to blood. A particularly dangerous form of viral hepatitis, it is caused by an RNA virus. Hepatitis C can lead to serious, permanent liver damage, and in many cases, death. More than 82 percent of those who are infected will progress to chronic liver disease. It is suspected that there are, at present, more than 4.5 million people in the United States that are infected with hepatitis C, and more than 200 million around the world.
read more
Hepatitis B - Formerly called serum hepatitis, it is caused by the hepatitis B virus. About 12% of cases progress to chronic hepatitis. It is spread through shared needles, through sexual contact with infected individuals, through exposure to infected body fluids, and from mother to child. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, jaundice, and elevated liver enzymes.
Hepatitis C - is a life-threatening, disease of the liver, which is transmitted by exposure to blood. A particularly dangerous form of viral hepatitis, it is caused by an RNA virus. Hepatitis C can lead to serious, permanent liver damage, and in many cases, death. More than 82 percent of those who are infected will progress to chronic liver disease. It is suspected that there are, at present, more than 4.5 million people in the United States that are infected with hepatitis C, and more than 200 million around the world.
read more
Hep C vaccine shows promise
An experimental peptide-based hepatitis C vaccine has shown promise in interim Phase II trial data, according to its developer Intercell.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease and 170m people worldwide carry the disease, however, currently there is no available vaccine.
Intercell's vaccine (IC41) comprises of eight T-cell antigens, combined with its first-generation poly-arginine adjuvant (IC30). It is designed to stimulate T-cell responses against HCV protein structures and reduce viral load.
Intercell said that the first data to be analysed from half of the 50 treatment-naïve study participants showed that its vaccine met the primary endpoint of achieving a statistically significant viral load (HCV-RNA) reduction.
read more
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of chronic liver disease and 170m people worldwide carry the disease, however, currently there is no available vaccine.
Intercell's vaccine (IC41) comprises of eight T-cell antigens, combined with its first-generation poly-arginine adjuvant (IC30). It is designed to stimulate T-cell responses against HCV protein structures and reduce viral load.
Intercell said that the first data to be analysed from half of the 50 treatment-naïve study participants showed that its vaccine met the primary endpoint of achieving a statistically significant viral load (HCV-RNA) reduction.
read more
Liver disease in the news(All Kind Of Diseases)
Cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive and irreversible disease of the liver. It has a number of different causes:
In South Africa, the most common cause of cirrhosis is chronic alcoholism. Alcoholic liver disease develops after more than a decade of heavy drinking (a factor which varies between individuals).
Chronic hepatitis B, C and D are other causes. Hepatitis B is the most common cause of cirrhosis worldwide and, like hepatitis C, causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis D also affects the liver, but mostly in people who already have hepatitis B.
Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the immune system attacks the liver. Inherited diseases such as Wilson disease can also affect the way the liver works.
Other lesser causes include:
1.non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which is associated with diabetes;
2.blocked bile ducts, often caused by primary billary cirrhosis in which the ducts become inflamed, blocked and scarred;
3.drugs, toxins and infections (e.g. severe reactions to prescription drugs, prolonged exposure to environmental toxins, or parasitic infection such as bilharzia); and
4.repeated heart failure accompanied by liver congestion.read more
In South Africa, the most common cause of cirrhosis is chronic alcoholism. Alcoholic liver disease develops after more than a decade of heavy drinking (a factor which varies between individuals).
Chronic hepatitis B, C and D are other causes. Hepatitis B is the most common cause of cirrhosis worldwide and, like hepatitis C, causes inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis D also affects the liver, but mostly in people who already have hepatitis B.
Autoimmune hepatitis occurs when the immune system attacks the liver. Inherited diseases such as Wilson disease can also affect the way the liver works.
Other lesser causes include:
1.non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which is associated with diabetes;
2.blocked bile ducts, often caused by primary billary cirrhosis in which the ducts become inflamed, blocked and scarred;
3.drugs, toxins and infections (e.g. severe reactions to prescription drugs, prolonged exposure to environmental toxins, or parasitic infection such as bilharzia); and
4.repeated heart failure accompanied by liver congestion.read more
Faulty blood-test kits found in Durgapur
Faulty blood-testing kit scare is back to haunt the state again. Defective blood kits were found at Durgapur sub-divisional hospital on Saturday.
“The kits were meant for testing different viruses like Hepatitis B, C and HIV. But while performing tests in Durgapur, it showed false positive results. We have concluded that the kits are defective and immediately informed the state health department and stopped all further tests. The blood collected in Durgapur will be tested at a facility in Asansol on a different and more reliable technique-based on the Elisa test to keep the blood bank functional,” said professor Santanu Halder, chief medical officer of health, Burdwan.
The kits are “one step anti-HBC kits” of lot number 019061 with an expiry date of 5.7.09. These kits are mainly used to test the presence of hepatitis C, B and HIV. The kits are manufactured by Standard Diagnostic Incorporated, Korea, but are supplied to the state health department by an Indian company. read more
“The kits were meant for testing different viruses like Hepatitis B, C and HIV. But while performing tests in Durgapur, it showed false positive results. We have concluded that the kits are defective and immediately informed the state health department and stopped all further tests. The blood collected in Durgapur will be tested at a facility in Asansol on a different and more reliable technique-based on the Elisa test to keep the blood bank functional,” said professor Santanu Halder, chief medical officer of health, Burdwan.
The kits are “one step anti-HBC kits” of lot number 019061 with an expiry date of 5.7.09. These kits are mainly used to test the presence of hepatitis C, B and HIV. The kits are manufactured by Standard Diagnostic Incorporated, Korea, but are supplied to the state health department by an Indian company. read more
Blood scandal compensation bill set to exceed €1bn
The State's bill for compensating people infected by contaminated blood products provided by the Blood Transfusion Service is reportedly set to exceed €1bn..
The tribunal has found that around 250 people were infected with HIV or Hepatitis C as a result of contaminated blood products used to treat haemophilia.
Another 1,600 were infected with Hepatitis C as a result of receiving contaminated anti-D blood products.
read more
The tribunal has found that around 250 people were infected with HIV or Hepatitis C as a result of contaminated blood products used to treat haemophilia.
Another 1,600 were infected with Hepatitis C as a result of receiving contaminated anti-D blood products.
read more
Tattoo studio faces $10M lawsuit
A $10 million class-action lawsuit has been launched against an Oshawa body art studio after thousands of people were urged to get tested for blood-borne diseases because they may have been exposed to dirty equipment.
The lawsuit against Longhorn Custom Bodyart Studio was filed in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Whitby Monday on behalf of Oshawa resident Kaleb Beaulieu, who received a tattoo at Longhorn in July.
Durham Region health authorities warned that possible use of non-sterile equipment could lead to transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C and sent letters to 2,400 people, urging them to see a doctor and get blood tests. The 530 results that have come back so far were all negative, said spokesperson Glendene Collins.read more
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Interferon
Interferon: A naturally occurring substance that interferes with the ability of viruses to reproduce. Interferon also boosts the immune system.
There are a number of different interferons. They fall into three main classes : alpha, beta, and gamma. All are proteins (lymphokines) normally produced by the body in response to infection. The interferons have been synthesized using recombinant DNA technology.
The goal of interferon therapy is to eradicate a virus from an infected person. Using interferon, for example, to eradicate the hepatitis B or C virus will, it is hoped, prevent the future development of cirrhosis and cancer of the liver. This may require months and even years of interferon treatment and may not be effective in many patients.read more
There are a number of different interferons. They fall into three main classes : alpha, beta, and gamma. All are proteins (lymphokines) normally produced by the body in response to infection. The interferons have been synthesized using recombinant DNA technology.
The goal of interferon therapy is to eradicate a virus from an infected person. Using interferon, for example, to eradicate the hepatitis B or C virus will, it is hoped, prevent the future development of cirrhosis and cancer of the liver. This may require months and even years of interferon treatment and may not be effective in many patients.read more
Hepatitis C Infection Increases Lymphoma Risk
People with the liver disease hepatitis C have an almost 30 percent higher risk of developing lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system. For a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma called Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia, the risk is almost 300 percent higher.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Thomas Giordano, an assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, said: “If I had hepatitis C, this would be one more piece of evidence that might make me consider treatment, though hepatitis C treatment can be difficult and is often unsuccessful.”read more
The study’s lead author, Dr. Thomas Giordano, an assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, said: “If I had hepatitis C, this would be one more piece of evidence that might make me consider treatment, though hepatitis C treatment can be difficult and is often unsuccessful.”read more
What is the scope of the hepatitis C problem?
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the most significant health problems affecting the liver. More than 4 million Americans (1.3% of the U.S. population) and 170 million individuals in the world (3% worldwide) are infected with hepatitis C virus. The prevalence (number of cases in a population at a specific time) of hepatitis C virus infections varies in different parts of the world. For example, the prevalence of hepatitis C virus in Scandinavia is less than 0.5% of the population, whereas the prevalence in Egypt is over 20%. In the U.S. and Western Europe, the complications of hepatitis C virus chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis are the most common reasons for liver transplantation.read more
Serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers
Serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers are the most important data for epidemiological screening and clinical diagnosis of HBV infection, especially in endemic areas. We compared the results of the Roche Modular Analytics E170 assay, the Abbott Architect i2000 assay, and an immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HBV surface antigen (anti-HBs), HBV e antigen (HBeAg), and anti-HBV e antigen (anti-HBe). A number of serum samples (264, 263, 224, and 202 for HBsAg, anti-HBs, HBeAg, and anti-HBe, respectively) were studied. For samples giving discrepant results for HBeAg between methods, real-time PCR assays were performed. The concordance rates among the three methods were high for HBsAg (100%) and HBeAg (94.6), but low for anti-HBs (91.6%) and anti-HBe (82.2%). For anti-HBs, which could be measured quantitatively by the Modular E170 and Architect i2000 procedures, discrepant results were observed at low levels of anti-HBs. For anti-HBe, the positive rate was highest with Modular E170 (60.9%) followed by the IRMA kit (54.1%) and Architect i2000 (51.0%). This study shows substantial differences between the assay results by the three methods, which should be taken into account in determinations of serum HBV markers. read more
Researchers find hepatitis B clues in old northern blood
A Canadian research scientist is using frozen blood samples, taken two decades ago from thousands of people across the North, in hopes of revealing new clues about hepatitis B.
"It's providing us with a snapshot in time of what has occurred with hepatitis B virus."said Dr. Carla Osiowy, a research scientist with the Public Health Agency of Canada's National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg.
Osiowy said she has found a new sub-genotype — a strain within a strain — of hepatitis B among people in Nunavut, related to a strain found in Japan. She said this particular strain produces a milder form of the disease in which those infected carry the virus but are otherwise healthy.read more
"It's providing us with a snapshot in time of what has occurred with hepatitis B virus."said Dr. Carla Osiowy, a research scientist with the Public Health Agency of Canada's National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg.
Osiowy said she has found a new sub-genotype — a strain within a strain — of hepatitis B among people in Nunavut, related to a strain found in Japan. She said this particular strain produces a milder form of the disease in which those infected carry the virus but are otherwise healthy.read more
Beachgoers Beware: Study Reveals Sand Contains Fecal Bacteria
Microbes that result in beach closures and health advisories when detected at unsafe levels in the ocean also have been detected in the sand, according to a recent study by a team of Stanford scientists.
Published in the July 1 issue of Environmental Science and Technology, the study found that sand at beaches all along the California coast contained some level of fecal indicator bacteria. Moreover, when the researchers looked closely at the sand quality at a popular beach in Monterey, Calif., they found evidence of human waste—raising doubt about the commonly held belief that some fecal indictor bacteria occur naturally in the sand and are therefore benign.
if ingested or absorbed through an open wound, pathogens in the water can trigger more severe ailments, including dysentery and hepatitis.read more
Published in the July 1 issue of Environmental Science and Technology, the study found that sand at beaches all along the California coast contained some level of fecal indicator bacteria. Moreover, when the researchers looked closely at the sand quality at a popular beach in Monterey, Calif., they found evidence of human waste—raising doubt about the commonly held belief that some fecal indictor bacteria occur naturally in the sand and are therefore benign.
if ingested or absorbed through an open wound, pathogens in the water can trigger more severe ailments, including dysentery and hepatitis.read more
Sinovac
Sinovac Biotech Ltd. is a China-based biopharmaceutical company that
focuses on the research, development, manufacture and commercialization of
vaccines that protect against human infectious diseases. Sinovac's vaccines
include Healive(TM) (hepatitis A), Bilive(TM) (combined hepatitis A and B)
and Anflu(TM) (influenza). Sinovac is currently developing human vaccines
against the H5N1 strain of pandemic influenza, Japanese encephalitis and
SARS. Additional information about Sinovac is available on its website,
http://www.sinovac.com . To be added to our distribution list, please
email: info@sinovac.com.read more
focuses on the research, development, manufacture and commercialization of
vaccines that protect against human infectious diseases. Sinovac's vaccines
include Healive(TM) (hepatitis A), Bilive(TM) (combined hepatitis A and B)
and Anflu(TM) (influenza). Sinovac is currently developing human vaccines
against the H5N1 strain of pandemic influenza, Japanese encephalitis and
SARS. Additional information about Sinovac is available on its website,
http://www.sinovac.com . To be added to our distribution list, please
email: info@sinovac.com.read more
Medical Services To Retail VScan Hepatitis Test Kits
VScan Hepatitis Test Kits
Medical Services International's distributor in Hong Kong will begin retailing its VScan Hepatitis B and C test kits in Hong Kong and surrounding areas.
The amount of VScan HIV test kits that are being sold on a retail level continues to increase on a quarterly basis. Adding Hepatitis B&C to the existing marketing plan will significantly increase the distributors volume. The southeast Asia market continues to be an excellent market for the company. It is anticipated that over 500,000 VScan test kits will be sold on a retail basis in the next year.
read more
Medical Services International's distributor in Hong Kong will begin retailing its VScan Hepatitis B and C test kits in Hong Kong and surrounding areas.
The amount of VScan HIV test kits that are being sold on a retail level continues to increase on a quarterly basis. Adding Hepatitis B&C to the existing marketing plan will significantly increase the distributors volume. The southeast Asia market continues to be an excellent market for the company. It is anticipated that over 500,000 VScan test kits will be sold on a retail basis in the next year.
read more
Can-Fite Successfully Completes Preclinical Trials With Its Second Drug Candidate CF102
PETACH TIKVA, Israel | August 20, 2007 | Can-Fite BioPharma (TASE:CFBI), a biotechnology company traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, announced today the successful completion of preclinical trials with CF102, the second molecule in the Company’s development pipeline, which is the basis for a drug indicated for the treatment of liver cancer and hepatitis.
The Drug is Indicated for the Treatment of Patients With Liver Cancer and Patients Infected With Hepatitis.
CF102 belongs to a chemical class of substances called nucleosides, known to act as antiviral agents. Laboratory studies conducted by the Company in collaboration with a leading laboratory at Temple University in Philadelphia show that CF102 is also active against the hepatitis virus. The number of individuals infected with hepatitis B and C worldwide is 350 million and 170 million, respectively, and these numbers are rapidly increasing in recent years. The market share is currently about USD 3 billion annually due to lack of appropriate treatments.read more
DJ euro adhoc: Intercell AG / other / Intercell´s therapeutic Hepatitis C vaccine meets primary endpoints in Phase II interim analysis
Vienna, Austria, 20 August 2007. Today, Intercell AG (ICLL) announced the analysis of Phase II interim data for its peptide-based therapeutic Hepatitis C vaccine (IC41) in an exploratory clinical study targeting treatment-naïve Hepatitis C patients. The vaccine comprises eight T-cell antigens and Intercell´s first-generation poly-arginine adjuvant (IC30). It is designed to stimulate T-cell responses against viral protein structures conserved throughout the major HCV genotypes, in order to reduce viral load in the blood of chronically infected patients.
The current study comprises 50 patients chronically infected with Genotype 1 of the Hepatitis C virus, which is known to be very difficult to treat with Interferon/Ribavirin standard therapy. The patients enrolled in the study have not received any other therapy and were given 8 intradermal injections of the IC41 vaccine in bi-weekly intervals for 14 weeks. This intensified vaccination schedule was derived from a recent optimization study aimed at improving the vaccine´s T-cell immune response. The desired outcome of the ongoing study is the demonstration of a constant and sustained decline in HCV viral load that is increased by reiterative vaccinations during the treatment period.
read more
The current study comprises 50 patients chronically infected with Genotype 1 of the Hepatitis C virus, which is known to be very difficult to treat with Interferon/Ribavirin standard therapy. The patients enrolled in the study have not received any other therapy and were given 8 intradermal injections of the IC41 vaccine in bi-weekly intervals for 14 weeks. This intensified vaccination schedule was derived from a recent optimization study aimed at improving the vaccine´s T-cell immune response. The desired outcome of the ongoing study is the demonstration of a constant and sustained decline in HCV viral load that is increased by reiterative vaccinations during the treatment period.
read more
Monday, August 20, 2007
A Practical Approach to Management of Chronic Hepatitis B
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is one of the important public health problems worldwide. Major advances have been made in the treatment of CHB during the past several years. This article systemically reviews advances in the application of HBV DNA quantitation and three approved drugs for HBV treatment, and presents an updated and practical clinical approach to managing CHB. Highly sensitive PCR-based quantitation of HBV DNA makes it possible to precisely determine pre-treatment HBV load and monitor HBV DNA response during treatment. HBV DNA level, HBeAg status, degree of hepatic histological activity and fibrosis, and serum transaminases are the most important parameters in determining indication, regimen, and duration of HBV treatment. Although interferon alfa-2b, lamivudine, and adefovir are all approved as initial HBV treatment, understanding the advantages and advantages of each agent is important in choosing the best treatment for each individual patient with CHB.read more
Hepatitis -Definition
Hepatitis known as an inflammation of the liver , is a gastroenterological disease. Hepatitis is generally categorized as a viral or non-viral hepatitis. Viral hepatitis can be considered "rapid" a position that comes on frequently with severe symptoms and for a short time or "chronic" a position that comes on slowly, may or may not have symptoms for a long time.
Lot of sickness and conditions that can lead to inflammation of the liver, for example, drugs, alcohol, chemicals, and autoimmune diseases ,which are categorize as a non viral cause & some viruses that cause inflame the liver, for example, the virus of mononucleosis and the cytomegalovirus can be categorize as a viral .However,Most viruses don't impact on liver .But when doctors speak of viral hepatitis, they generally are referring to hepatitis caused by some specific viruses that primarily attack the liver .There are number of viruses that causes hepatitis. They have been called types A, B, C, D, E, F & G. All of these viruses can result an acute disease with appearance number of weeks including yellowing of the skin and eyes called as jaundice, dark urine, high fatigue, nausea, vomiting & abdominal pain. It can take various months to a year to experience fit again. The most common hepatitis viruses are types A, B, and C
read more
Lot of sickness and conditions that can lead to inflammation of the liver, for example, drugs, alcohol, chemicals, and autoimmune diseases ,which are categorize as a non viral cause & some viruses that cause inflame the liver, for example, the virus of mononucleosis and the cytomegalovirus can be categorize as a viral .However,Most viruses don't impact on liver .But when doctors speak of viral hepatitis, they generally are referring to hepatitis caused by some specific viruses that primarily attack the liver .There are number of viruses that causes hepatitis. They have been called types A, B, C, D, E, F & G. All of these viruses can result an acute disease with appearance number of weeks including yellowing of the skin and eyes called as jaundice, dark urine, high fatigue, nausea, vomiting & abdominal pain. It can take various months to a year to experience fit again. The most common hepatitis viruses are types A, B, and C
read more
Can Hepatitis C Be Transmitted Through Sexual Contact?
There are various possible modes of transmission for the Hepatitis C virus, however a significant portion of those infected cannot identify how they may have contracted the disease. A few of the primary suspects in HCV transmission are blood transfusions (before proper blood screening procedures were implemented) and IV drug use. Though, medical researchers are now making a case for transmission through sexual contact. Since Hepatitis C is spread through the blood, sexual transmission is entirely possible, but only when there is blood-to-blood contact with an infected individual.
Most experts believe that the risk of sexual transmission of HCV is low, however studies have shown that it is possible to spread this infectious disease when engaging in unsafe sexual behaviors. Practicing safe sex is the general rule of thumb to avoid contagion of diseases, however it’s not just limited to HIV and STD prevention. The key point to keep in mind is that the potential to spread the virus to others is more likely when blood is present.
read more
Most experts believe that the risk of sexual transmission of HCV is low, however studies have shown that it is possible to spread this infectious disease when engaging in unsafe sexual behaviors. Practicing safe sex is the general rule of thumb to avoid contagion of diseases, however it’s not just limited to HIV and STD prevention. The key point to keep in mind is that the potential to spread the virus to others is more likely when blood is present.
read more
Stars of BBC ‘Tribe’ series hit by disease epidemic
The Matis Indians of Brazil, stars of tomorrow’s episode of ‘Tribe’ on BBC TV, are facing an epidemic which has already killed members of this tiny tribe.
The hit series returns to the UK’s TV screens tomorrow with presenter Bruce Parry’s visit to the Matis.
The Matis and many other tribes, including at least six uncontacted groups, live in the Javari Valley in the Brazilian Amazon. Ninety percent of Indians in the area suffered from malaria in 2006. A study of 306 Indians showed that a staggering 85 percent had had contact with the hepatitis A virus, while 56 percent were carrying hepatitis B and 25 percent hepatitis C.
read more
The hit series returns to the UK’s TV screens tomorrow with presenter Bruce Parry’s visit to the Matis.
The Matis and many other tribes, including at least six uncontacted groups, live in the Javari Valley in the Brazilian Amazon. Ninety percent of Indians in the area suffered from malaria in 2006. A study of 306 Indians showed that a staggering 85 percent had had contact with the hepatitis A virus, while 56 percent were carrying hepatitis B and 25 percent hepatitis C.
read more
Friday, August 17, 2007
What is the difference between acute and chronic hepatitis?
When a person is first infected with hepatitis, they are said to have "acute" hepatitis. Acute hepatitis can be mild or severe. Luckily, more than 80 percent of the people infected with hepatitis recover within six months and no longer have the virus.
Some people do not recover and develop "chronic" hepatitis. Chronic hepatitis is an ongoing infection of the liver that can lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis, or hardening of the liver, causes liver tissue to scar and stop working.
read more
Some people do not recover and develop "chronic" hepatitis. Chronic hepatitis is an ongoing infection of the liver that can lead to cirrhosis. Cirrhosis, or hardening of the liver, causes liver tissue to scar and stop working.
read more
Welcome for infected blood inquiry pledge
CAMPAIGNERS have welcomed a promise by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon of a public inquiry into how people were infected with hepatitis C through contaminated blood.
Ministers are to await the outcome of the Archer inquiry in England and Wales into hepatitis C and HIV infections from NHS blood supplies, before deciding on the scope and remit of the Scottish probe. But after a meeting with Ms Sturgeon yesterday, Philip Dolan, chairman of the Scottish Haemophilia Group, said: "The speed and recognition of the need for this inquiry is a matter for which Nicola Sturgeon should be congratulated."
Hundreds of people in Scotland, including haemophilia sufferers and other patients, were given contaminated blood in the 1970s and 1980s.read more
Ministers are to await the outcome of the Archer inquiry in England and Wales into hepatitis C and HIV infections from NHS blood supplies, before deciding on the scope and remit of the Scottish probe. But after a meeting with Ms Sturgeon yesterday, Philip Dolan, chairman of the Scottish Haemophilia Group, said: "The speed and recognition of the need for this inquiry is a matter for which Nicola Sturgeon should be congratulated."
Hundreds of people in Scotland, including haemophilia sufferers and other patients, were given contaminated blood in the 1970s and 1980s.read more
Encephalitis from West Nile: Who's at risk?
MADISON, Wisconsin (Reuters Health) - A new study pinpoints several risk factors for developing deadly encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) caused by mosquito-borne West Nile virus infection.
The researchers identified older age, history of heart and vascular disease, and history of hypertension (high blood pressure) as independent risk factors for developing encephalitis from West Nile infection.
After adjusting for age, a suppressed immune system, being African-American, being infected with hepatitis C virus and having kidney disease all raised the risk of death from West Nile-associated encephalitis.
read more
The researchers identified older age, history of heart and vascular disease, and history of hypertension (high blood pressure) as independent risk factors for developing encephalitis from West Nile infection.
After adjusting for age, a suppressed immune system, being African-American, being infected with hepatitis C virus and having kidney disease all raised the risk of death from West Nile-associated encephalitis.
read more
Hepatitis B Foundation of Bucks County Launches Pilot Summer High School Science Enrichment Program
The Hepatitis B Foundation piloted a two-week “High School Science Enrichment Program” this summer for talented students interested in gaining hands-on research experience and learning more about biotechnology and public health in the context of hepatitis B and liver cancer. The Central Bucks School District Science Department offered encouragement, support and specific ideas for the Foundation’s exciting new initiative.
Each student was paired with a Hepatitis B Foundation scientist and mentor to shadow and conduct well-supervised research projects in an assigned lab. High School student participants for the 2007 program included; Ayusa Sinha, Central Bucks South senior mentored by Nikki Barnes; Felix Lu, Hatboro-Horsham junior mentored by Jason Lamontagne; Matthew Mudalel, Central Bucks South senior mentored by Anny Dougherty, and Sohum Bhatt, Piscataway senior mentored by Ender Simsek, Ph.D. read more
Each student was paired with a Hepatitis B Foundation scientist and mentor to shadow and conduct well-supervised research projects in an assigned lab. High School student participants for the 2007 program included; Ayusa Sinha, Central Bucks South senior mentored by Nikki Barnes; Felix Lu, Hatboro-Horsham junior mentored by Jason Lamontagne; Matthew Mudalel, Central Bucks South senior mentored by Anny Dougherty, and Sohum Bhatt, Piscataway senior mentored by Ender Simsek, Ph.D. read more
Roche Joins Forces With Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church to Provide Free Hepatitis C Testing to the Community
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Roche representatives will work together with the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church from Saturday, August 18 - Sunday, August 19 to educate the church community about the hepatitis C virus (HCV), including risk factors, the importance of getting tested and possible treatment options.
Preparations will begin on Friday, August 17 when ministry leaders, church volunteers, and Roche representatives convene to review education and testing logistics regarding HCV.
"African Americans have the highest rate of infection with hepatitis C in the country. We are committed to educate and provide free hepatitis C testing to the members ...
read more
Preparations will begin on Friday, August 17 when ministry leaders, church volunteers, and Roche representatives convene to review education and testing logistics regarding HCV.
"African Americans have the highest rate of infection with hepatitis C in the country. We are committed to educate and provide free hepatitis C testing to the members ...
read more
The Prevention of Hepatitis
In general, to prevent viral hepatitis you should:
1.Follow good hygiene and avoid crowded, unhealthy living conditions.
2.Take extra care, particularly when drinking and swimming, if you travel to areas of the world where sanitation is poor and water quality is uncertain.
3.Never eat shellfish from waters contaminated by sewage.
4.Remind everyone in your family to wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before eating.
5.Use antiseptic cleansers to clean any toilet, sink, potty-chair, or bedpan used by someone in the family who develops hepatitis. read more
Contagiousness
Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are all contagious.
The hepatitis A virus can be spread in contaminated food or water, as well as in unsanitary conditions in child-care facilities or schools. Toilets and sinks used by an infected person should be cleaned with antiseptic cleansers. People who live with or care for someone with hepatitis should wash their hands after contact with the infected person. In addition, when traveling to countries where hepatitis A is prevalent, your child should be
The hepatitis B virus can be found in virtually all body fluids, though its main routes of infection are through sexual contact, contaminated blood transfusions, and shared needles for drug injections. Household contact with adults with hepatitis B can put people at risk for contracting hepatitis.
The hepatitis C virus can be spread through shared drug needles, contaminated blood products, and, less commonly, through sexual contact. Although hepatitis C can be spread from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy, the risk of passing hepatitis C to the fetus isn't very high (about 5%). If you're pregnant, contact your doctor if you think you may have been exposed to hepatitis C.read more
The hepatitis A virus can be spread in contaminated food or water, as well as in unsanitary conditions in child-care facilities or schools. Toilets and sinks used by an infected person should be cleaned with antiseptic cleansers. People who live with or care for someone with hepatitis should wash their hands after contact with the infected person. In addition, when traveling to countries where hepatitis A is prevalent, your child should be
The hepatitis B virus can be found in virtually all body fluids, though its main routes of infection are through sexual contact, contaminated blood transfusions, and shared needles for drug injections. Household contact with adults with hepatitis B can put people at risk for contracting hepatitis.
The hepatitis C virus can be spread through shared drug needles, contaminated blood products, and, less commonly, through sexual contact. Although hepatitis C can be spread from a mother to her fetus during pregnancy, the risk of passing hepatitis C to the fetus isn't very high (about 5%). If you're pregnant, contact your doctor if you think you may have been exposed to hepatitis C.read more
Romark Begins Trial of Alinia for Chronic Hepatitis C
Romark Laboratories has initiated a Phase II clinical trial of Alinia for treating chronic hepatitis C in the U.S.
According to Romark, the clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Alinia (nitazoxanide) tablets administered in combination with Pegasys (peginterferon alfa-2a) and Copegus (ribavirin) in 60 patients with chronichepatitis C genotype 1 who have failed to respond to standard therapy (peginterferon and ribavirin).
The trial is part of the company’s Studies to Evaluate Alinia for Treatment of Hepatitis C (STEALTH C) clinical development program, a series of clinical trials designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Alinia tablets in combination with peginterferon or peginterferon and ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
read more
According to Romark, the clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Alinia (nitazoxanide) tablets administered in combination with Pegasys (peginterferon alfa-2a) and Copegus (ribavirin) in 60 patients with chronichepatitis C genotype 1 who have failed to respond to standard therapy (peginterferon and ribavirin).
The trial is part of the company’s Studies to Evaluate Alinia for Treatment of Hepatitis C (STEALTH C) clinical development program, a series of clinical trials designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Alinia tablets in combination with peginterferon or peginterferon and ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
read more
Novelos Therapeutics to Present and Webcast at Noble Financial Small Cap Conference
Novelos Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company commercializing oxidized glutathione-based compounds for the treatment of cancer and hepatitis. NOV-002, the lead compound currently in Phase 3 development for lung cancer under a SPA and Fast Track, acts together with chemotherapy as a chemoprotectant and an immunomodulator. NOV-002 is also in Phase 2 development for chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer and early-stage breast cancer, and is in addition being developed for acute radiation injury. NOV-205 acts as a hepatoprotective agent with immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory properties. NOV-205 is in Phase 1b development for chronic hepatitis C non-responders. Both compounds have completed clinical trials in humans and have been approved for use in the Russian Federation where they were originally developed. read more
Roche Joins Forces With Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church to Provide Free Hepatitis C Testing to the Community
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Roche representatives will work together with the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church from Saturday, August 18 - Sunday, August 19 to educate the church community about the hepatitis C virus (HCV), including risk factors, the importance of getting tested and possible treatment options.
Preparations will begin on Friday, August 17 when ministry leaders, church volunteers, and Roche representatives convene to review education and testing logistics regarding HCV.
"African Americans have the highest rate of infection with hepatitis C in the country. We are committed to educate and provide free hepatitis C testing to the members of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church and other local residents to prevent future infections," said Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA.read more
Preparations will begin on Friday, August 17 when ministry leaders, church volunteers, and Roche representatives convene to review education and testing logistics regarding HCV.
"African Americans have the highest rate of infection with hepatitis C in the country. We are committed to educate and provide free hepatitis C testing to the members of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church and other local residents to prevent future infections," said Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA.read more
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Hepatitis C is a real threat for our lives
Hepatitis C is considered to be quite a tricky disease, due to the fact that the virus acts in silence and can infect a person for many years until doctors find out. The Center for Disease Control (CDC), has declared Hepatitis C to be a "silent epidemic" and it seems that 20 to 30 % people affected of chronic Hepatitis C are exposed to future life threatening symptoms.
Hepatitis C was first observed in US in 1960, after blood transfusions and drug injections began to be widely applied. Nobody knew exactly how many people got affected by the disease, until 1990 when HCV blood tests have developed. Studies have proved that in 20 years a person affected of chronicle C Hepatitis will develop cirrhosis, and many of them will turn into liver cancer. Patients with HCV are considered to be in need for a liver transplant.......
read more
Hepatitis C was first observed in US in 1960, after blood transfusions and drug injections began to be widely applied. Nobody knew exactly how many people got affected by the disease, until 1990 when HCV blood tests have developed. Studies have proved that in 20 years a person affected of chronicle C Hepatitis will develop cirrhosis, and many of them will turn into liver cancer. Patients with HCV are considered to be in need for a liver transplant.......
read more
The Unspecific Character of Hepatitis C Symptoms
Hepatitis C generally refers to infection of the liver. The disease has an incubation stage of up to six months, and patients often have no clear symptoms over this period of time. In some cases the symptoms of hepatitis C occur after a few months from the moment of infection, while in other cases the symptoms of hepatitis C occur after more than a year, when the disease becomes chronic.
Due to the unspecific character of most symptoms produced by hepatitis C, the process of establishing the accurate diagnosis is very complicated and time consuming for doctors.Careful blood analyses are considered to be the most reliable method of tracing clear signs of hepatitis C in patients with suspected hepatitis. Liver biopsy is another useful medical procedure that can indicate the presence of infection with HCV and that can also provide doctors with additional information regarding the progression of the disease.
And it have two stages......read more
Due to the unspecific character of most symptoms produced by hepatitis C, the process of establishing the accurate diagnosis is very complicated and time consuming for doctors.Careful blood analyses are considered to be the most reliable method of tracing clear signs of hepatitis C in patients with suspected hepatitis. Liver biopsy is another useful medical procedure that can indicate the presence of infection with HCV and that can also provide doctors with additional information regarding the progression of the disease.
And it have two stages......read more
Hepatitis A Exams & Tests
Tests can accurately diagnose whether you've been infected. Your health care provider may perform a physical exam to see if you have an enlarged and tender liver. Blood tests can detect the presence of hepatitis by measuring:
Bilirubin - Normally, your liver metabolizes this residue of worn-out red cells, and you excrete it in your urine. Hepatitis interferes with your liver's ability to metabolize bilirubin, leading to higher levels in your blood.
Enzyme levels - Your doctor may also look for elevated blood levels of enzymes known as aminotransferases, which are released when your liver is damaged.
If tests confirm the presence of hepatitis, your health care provider may still need to take another blood test called a radioimmunoassay to pinpoint the exact type of hepatitis you have. This test identifies:
Antibodies your immune system has formed in response to the presence of antigens
Proteins that are unique to a particular virus read more
Bilirubin - Normally, your liver metabolizes this residue of worn-out red cells, and you excrete it in your urine. Hepatitis interferes with your liver's ability to metabolize bilirubin, leading to higher levels in your blood.
Enzyme levels - Your doctor may also look for elevated blood levels of enzymes known as aminotransferases, which are released when your liver is damaged.
If tests confirm the presence of hepatitis, your health care provider may still need to take another blood test called a radioimmunoassay to pinpoint the exact type of hepatitis you have. This test identifies:
Antibodies your immune system has formed in response to the presence of antigens
Proteins that are unique to a particular virus read more
Pittsburgh Area Blood Bank Running Low, In Need Of Donors
Donors are not eligible if they've had hepatitis during their adulthood, are pregnant or if they've ever tested positive for HIV, had intimate contact with anyone at-risk for AIDS or have engaged in at-risk behavior themselves.
There is urgency in the need for local blood donations.
Doctors said the supply squeeze would quickly be lessened if qualified donors gave just a little more.
read more
There is urgency in the need for local blood donations.
Doctors said the supply squeeze would quickly be lessened if qualified donors gave just a little more.
read more
Recommended viccine for kids
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that can be spread by close personal contact or sometimes by eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
The recommendation is that children under 13 years of age receive a chicken pox booster. It is called the varicella vaccine, and previously it was given at age 1. Now the new recommendation is to give a booster [a second shot] between ages 4 and 6.
the hepatitis vaccine was recommended to be given to children living in areas that were at high risk for hepatitis. But beginning last year, it was recommended that the two-dose vaccine be given to every child between the ages of 12 [months] to 23 months. A "catch-up" vaccine can be considered for those over age 2 [who did not receive the vaccine].
read more
The recommendation is that children under 13 years of age receive a chicken pox booster. It is called the varicella vaccine, and previously it was given at age 1. Now the new recommendation is to give a booster [a second shot] between ages 4 and 6.
the hepatitis vaccine was recommended to be given to children living in areas that were at high risk for hepatitis. But beginning last year, it was recommended that the two-dose vaccine be given to every child between the ages of 12 [months] to 23 months. A "catch-up" vaccine can be considered for those over age 2 [who did not receive the vaccine].
read more
Hepatitis C Virus
Hepatitis C (HCV) is a common co-infection with HIV among injection drug users, but historically it has not appeared to be readily transmitted sexually, and so is relatively rare among gay men. But an increase in HCV infection among HIV-positive gay men in Europe is calling that into question.
A presentation last month by Mark Danta and colleagues at the International AIDS Society conference in Sydney looked in detail at the genetic sequences of the HCV infections of 188 HIV-positive gay men in England, Holland, Germany, and France. It found 10 distinct HCV clusters of infection, ranging in size from three to 36 individuals.
The authors concluded that the HCV transmissions were the result of increased travel associated with high-risk behaviors of the men. Previous studies have noted the association between transmission of HCV and a high number of sexual partners, increased incidence of other sexually transmitted diseases, the use of party drugs such as cocaine and crystal meth, and engaging in SM-associated sexual practices.
read more
A presentation last month by Mark Danta and colleagues at the International AIDS Society conference in Sydney looked in detail at the genetic sequences of the HCV infections of 188 HIV-positive gay men in England, Holland, Germany, and France. It found 10 distinct HCV clusters of infection, ranging in size from three to 36 individuals.
The authors concluded that the HCV transmissions were the result of increased travel associated with high-risk behaviors of the men. Previous studies have noted the association between transmission of HCV and a high number of sexual partners, increased incidence of other sexually transmitted diseases, the use of party drugs such as cocaine and crystal meth, and engaging in SM-associated sexual practices.
read more
Immunization Education Often Overlooked During Prenatal Visits
"Studies have shown that parents would like more information about vaccines and we thought the prenatal period offered a unique opportunity to give women [this information]," said Navar, a researcher at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
The authors discovered that 32 percent of obstetric practices provided hepatitis B vaccine information and 23 percent provided information on other routine childhood vaccines.read more
The authors discovered that 32 percent of obstetric practices provided hepatitis B vaccine information and 23 percent provided information on other routine childhood vaccines.read more
Shining light on UV tattoos
In a sea of tattoos, this one glows in all the right places.
But tattoo studios in Canada are divided over the use of UV pigments, which have cropped up in North America and Japan in the past two years. Use of the inks is illegal in this country, Health Canada says
Provincial legislation governs the health and safety standards of tattoo studios and does not deal with ink products. Recently, Durham Region health officials urged as many as 2,000 people to get blood tests for HIV and hepatitis B and C over concerns that they may have been exposed to unsterilized equipment at an Oshawa tattoo parlour.
There's no specific regulation for the ink itself in Toronto tattoo studios, according to Manisa Jiaravuthisan, with Toronto Public Health. But there is legislation that outlines minimum requirements for tattoo studios so they can prevent blood-borne infections. This legislation is under review to bring it up to date, Jiaravuthisan says.
read more
Nokia China faces lawsuit over rejection of Hepatitis-B carrier
The Chinese unit of the Finnish telecommunications giant Nokia is facing legal action for alleged workplace discrimination. The legal proceedings started in the city of Dongguan in Southern China on Wednesday.
This is reported to be the first case in China in which a multinational company has been accused of discriminating against a Hepatitis-B carrier. As many as 120 million Chinese citizens are carriers of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) - nearly one in ten of the world’s largest population.
Even though the virus is reported not to be contagious under normal circumstances, about half of all Chinese workers refuse to work with HBV carriers, according to a survey conducted in the country in May. Hence HBV carriers often face discrimination in China. The first court case arising out of workplace discrimination on these grounds was heard there only as recently as 2003.
"This case will make the problem known publicly. It will also teach HBV carriers how to defend their legal rights", said Lu Ju, an HBV activist, who is assisting Li in the lawsuit.
The court is expected to hand down its decision on the Dongguan case in the next few weeks. read more
This is reported to be the first case in China in which a multinational company has been accused of discriminating against a Hepatitis-B carrier. As many as 120 million Chinese citizens are carriers of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) - nearly one in ten of the world’s largest population.
Even though the virus is reported not to be contagious under normal circumstances, about half of all Chinese workers refuse to work with HBV carriers, according to a survey conducted in the country in May. Hence HBV carriers often face discrimination in China. The first court case arising out of workplace discrimination on these grounds was heard there only as recently as 2003.
"This case will make the problem known publicly. It will also teach HBV carriers how to defend their legal rights", said Lu Ju, an HBV activist, who is assisting Li in the lawsuit.
The court is expected to hand down its decision on the Dongguan case in the next few weeks. read more
About Hepatitis C and ChronVac-C
Hepatitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the liver. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis. HCV is spread primarily by direct contact with human blood, the major causes worldwide being the use of unscreened blood transfusions and re-use of inadequately sterilized needles and syringes.
HCV infections in the liver do not trigger an immune response very effectively. Certain antiviral therapies, while expensive, are somewhat effective in treating hepatitis C, but there is no vaccine currently available to prevent hepatitis C. ChronVac-C(R) is designed to be a therapeutic DNA vaccine that can stimulate the body's immune system. Animal experiments have demonstrated that ChronVac-C vaccination activated B-cells and T-cells (the latter being regarded as the most significant to clearing the chronic infection relating to hepatitis C) that killed cells producing HCV protein. In humans, the ChronVac-C DNA plasmid will be injected into muscle tissue, where vaccinations are usually given, and taken up by muscle cells with the assistance of Inovio's electroporation-based DNA delivery system. These muscle cells would be expected to then produce predetermined proteins that may activate the body's immune system to attack all cells producing HCV proteins. read more
HCV infections in the liver do not trigger an immune response very effectively. Certain antiviral therapies, while expensive, are somewhat effective in treating hepatitis C, but there is no vaccine currently available to prevent hepatitis C. ChronVac-C(R) is designed to be a therapeutic DNA vaccine that can stimulate the body's immune system. Animal experiments have demonstrated that ChronVac-C vaccination activated B-cells and T-cells (the latter being regarded as the most significant to clearing the chronic infection relating to hepatitis C) that killed cells producing HCV protein. In humans, the ChronVac-C DNA plasmid will be injected into muscle tissue, where vaccinations are usually given, and taken up by muscle cells with the assistance of Inovio's electroporation-based DNA delivery system. These muscle cells would be expected to then produce predetermined proteins that may activate the body's immune system to attack all cells producing HCV proteins. read more
Inovio Biomedical Partner Tripep Receives Approval to Initiate Phase I/II Study of Novel Vaccine for Hepatitis C Virus
SAN DIEGO-(Business Wire)-August 16, 2007 - Inovio Biomedical Corporation (AMEX:INO), a leader in enabling the development of DNA vaccines using electroporation-based DNA delivery, announced today that its partner, Tripep AB of Sweden, received approvals from the Swedish Medical Products Agency and local ethics committees to initiate a Phase I/II clinical trial of a novel DNA vaccine designed to treat chronically infected hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients.
DNA-based immunotherapies including DNA vaccines have the potential to by-pass inherent scientific obstacles of conventional vaccines that prevent their development for cancer and chronic infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. Pre-clinical data has indicated the ability of Inovio's technologies to effectively deliver and significantly enhance the potency of such immunotherapies without the potential safety concerns of viral systems. read more
DNA-based immunotherapies including DNA vaccines have the potential to by-pass inherent scientific obstacles of conventional vaccines that prevent their development for cancer and chronic infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. Pre-clinical data has indicated the ability of Inovio's technologies to effectively deliver and significantly enhance the potency of such immunotherapies without the potential safety concerns of viral systems. read more
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Liver Cancer Deaths on the Rise
liver cancer deaths have been on the rise in the United States. The American Liver Foundation estimates that 16,780 people in the United States will die this year of liver cancer, an increase of 580 deaths from 2006 and 4,000 deaths from only ten years ago.
But what is causing the increasing rates of liver cancer? Most cases of liver cancer are linked to cirrhosis of the liver, a condition caused when scar tissue begins to replace healthy liver tissue. Cirrhosis is a common long-term side effect of long-term, excessive alcohol consumption, as well as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and fatty liver disease.
"The increase in liver cancer is due to the near epidemic rates of many liver diseases," said Boyer. "The hepatitis C virus, for example, is the fourth leading cause of liver cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Both hepatitis B and C are viral infections. Over four million Americans have been infected with hepatitis C, while 1.4 million have been infected with hepatitis B. It is estimated that as much as 20 percent of the American population has fatty liver disease, a side-effect of diabetes and obesity.read more
But what is causing the increasing rates of liver cancer? Most cases of liver cancer are linked to cirrhosis of the liver, a condition caused when scar tissue begins to replace healthy liver tissue. Cirrhosis is a common long-term side effect of long-term, excessive alcohol consumption, as well as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and fatty liver disease.
"The increase in liver cancer is due to the near epidemic rates of many liver diseases," said Boyer. "The hepatitis C virus, for example, is the fourth leading cause of liver cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Both hepatitis B and C are viral infections. Over four million Americans have been infected with hepatitis C, while 1.4 million have been infected with hepatitis B. It is estimated that as much as 20 percent of the American population has fatty liver disease, a side-effect of diabetes and obesity.read more
CORRECTION FROM SOURCE: ViRexx Announces Second Quarter Results
ViRexx Medical Corp. (TSX:VIR)(AMEX:REX), a company focused on immunotherapy treatments for certain cancers, chronic hepatitis B & C and embolotherapy treatments for tumours.
ViRexx is an Edmonton, Alberta based biotechnology company focused on the development of novel therapeutic products for the treatment of certain cancers and specified chronic viral infections. ViRexx's most advanced programs include drug candidates for the treatment of ovarian cancer, chronic hepatitis B and C and solid tumors.
read more
ViRexx is an Edmonton, Alberta based biotechnology company focused on the development of novel therapeutic products for the treatment of certain cancers and specified chronic viral infections. ViRexx's most advanced programs include drug candidates for the treatment of ovarian cancer, chronic hepatitis B and C and solid tumors.
read more
Help us really stop the spread of Hepatitis C
Before lending that support to Hepatitis C Epidemic Act, HR 2552, we believe you should have an opportunity to consider our position as well.
HR 2552 does not address the needs of the Hepatitis C infected population but creates another funding source for the largest unaccountable, single disease program in our nation's history, HIV/AIDS.
We believe once congress sees through this attempt to fund HIV/AIDS we can begin to address the needs of the Hepatitis C infected population with accountability and oversight as key components of any Hepatitis C legislation. read more
Why are childhood vaccines so important?
Newborn babies are immune to many diseases because they have antibodies they got from their mothers. However, the duration of this immunity may last only a month to about a year.
Further, young children do not have maternal immunity against some vaccine-preventable diseases, such as whooping cough.
If a child is not vaccinated and is exposed to a disease germ, the child’s body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. Before vaccines, many children died from diseases that vaccines now prevent, such as whooping cough, measles and polio. Those same germs exist today, but babies are now protected by vaccines, so we do not see these diseases as often.read more
Further, young children do not have maternal immunity against some vaccine-preventable diseases, such as whooping cough.
If a child is not vaccinated and is exposed to a disease germ, the child’s body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. Before vaccines, many children died from diseases that vaccines now prevent, such as whooping cough, measles and polio. Those same germs exist today, but babies are now protected by vaccines, so we do not see these diseases as often.read more
Utah ranks top diseases
Hepatitis A, which has fallen off Utah's list, where it was prominent in the 1990s, is another example of successful public health policy, Rolfs said. "We've seen a notable decrease." Utah was one of the first states to require vaccination for hepatitis A. And the state's numbers show that effort worked. Now it's required across the country, where hepatitis A ranks 18th.read more
Monday, August 13, 2007
Immunization: Tracking the Response to Hepatitis B Vaccine
A series of hepatitis B vaccinations is a routine part of a child’s vaccination schedule, but no one knows how long immunity lasts among children born to healthy mothers. So researchers decided to measure immunity indirectly by testing the response to a booster shot in 378 healthy children and adolescents who had received hepatitis B vaccinations in infancy.
Over all, 99 percent of the children ages 5 to 7 and 83 percent of those ages 10 to 15 who received a recombinant hepatitis B vaccine responded to the booster, meaning that they showed continuing immunity. Among adolescents who had received a plasma-derived vaccine, 69 percent had an antibody response to the new shot. The older the children were, the more likely their immunity was waning: 97 percent of 5-year-olds had an antibody response, compared with 60 percent of 14-year-olds.
read more
Rebetol!
We guarantee delivery of your Rebetol (Ribavirin) order directly to your door Q Do I need to have the prescription for buying Rebetol?. If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use Rebetol, prescription or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment. PEGINTRON/REBETOL is contraindicated in patients with autoimmune hepatitis, decompensated liver disease, and in patients with hemoglobinopathies read more
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