H1N1 - Discussion and Suggestions 11/04/09 See the new article by naturopath Katia Bailetti at the bottom of this discussion.
Update: 11/08/09
Well, so far finding people with swine flu is a little like finding a WMD in Iraq. The rumor is there, we're told its there, but mostly we find regular seasonal flu, coughs and colds. That we're seeing as much of as any other year. What we are seeing much, much more of this year is one of the worst diseases to ever afflict mankind: Fear/Panic. When in fear, people no longer think rationally but act instinctively and according to the behest of those who talk, as if they know. The problem is that they don't know. They are just higher on the pecking order of ignorance. Personally, I'd love to know
who are the PR firms that direct this whole play. The Vancouver Sun has not let up with its multi-page, highlighted headline drum beat of fear and immunization, not for one day.
Here is a new link by Neurosurgeon Russell Blaylock who discusses the research based non-efficacy of the vaccines (though there is also a lot of right wing nut-bar stuff on his website as well, so this is not a general endorsement):
http://www.russellblaylockmd.com/
At this early stage, it is hard to know the extent to which the H1N1 Swine flu will affect the population or how seriously, though there are trends. It is certain that the panic generated around it is quite considerable. The media and general public pressure to vaccinate, at fever pitch. The latest news is of overwhelmed switchboards and emergency rooms packed with mothers or fathers and children.
The other day in the Vancouver Sun, headlines tell of three more deaths, but then mentions that all were high risk individuals. The daily media drumbeat is something to see. On CNN I watched Anderson start with a the headline, "Nineteen more deaths" followed by physician Sanjay Gupta state that in reality, at the end of the day there would likely be LESS deaths this year from the flu then in a normal year, that for the vast majority, their exposure to H1N1 would amount to nothing more then a regular bout of flu. In fact, so far almost all deaths have been in individuals with "pre-exsiting conditions". Also, it is worth noting that obesity, particularly serious obesity, has been identified as a risk factor in serious swine flu complications. Here is one article among many, discussing the evidence.
http://www.naturalnews.com/026602_pandemic_swine_flu_health.html
If you put "swine flu and obesity" in your search engine, there are multiple articles using the same references.
One of the main features of obesity is the increased inflammation in the body:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1783744/. This suggests the possibility that a serious incident of the flu might lead to an inflammatory cascade, particularly affecting the lungs, that may lead to death in some cases.
Of great concern is the fact that this particular flu seems to be affecting fairly young people, quite outside the normal population at risk. Though "pre-existing conditions" are still a factor in this younger population, and high rates of youth obesity in North America, may also be a factor, it is still interesting that younger people are being affected. There may be diverse and interesting reasons for this and this is worth exploring in and of itself. As it happens, about 35,000 people a year die of the flu in North America, long after the introduction of the flu vaccine for at risk groups. So the fear of a deadly bout of flu virus must be measured against the reality of the numbers and population groups most likely to be affected.
The vaccine program being promoted is not that popular, despite the fear. As a subscriber to the Vancouver Sun, it has been intriguing to read the drumbeat of vaccination on every page. In fact, the annual flu vaccine promotion intensifies with every passing year.
Last week I was involved in a conversation with several American physicians. One was speaking of a previous flu epidemic. He said that he never saw anyone die of the flu, but he saw two people die from the vaccine and two kids go into anaphylactic shock requiring hospitalization. This kind of information doesn't make it to the surface.
Thoughts:
1) When we are told that the swine flu vaccine is "proven safe", this must be taken with a grain of salt. Vaccine research is tainted by the sacramental nature of vaccines, wherein vaccination has become the baptismal rite into the church of modern medicine. My view is that vaccination is not like the natural disease, does not generally enter the body like the natural disease and therefore it alters immunity. It does not enhance general immunity. (See the second article under recommended reading).
I once had a patient who was a nurse and participated in a very large vaccine study involving children throughout the lower mainland. She said that hundreds of kids reacted, but that the two physicians overseeing the study did not accept one single child's reaction as due to the vaccine. Furthermore, she said, one child went into anaphylactic shock and the individual who was in overall charge of the study instructed the involved nurses to tell the parents that it had nothing to do with the vaccine. This is a very good indication of the quality of evidence around vaccines.
2) Flu shots were once promoted to specific population groups, mainly seniors, despite very poor research support for their value. Now they are promoted to everyone, including very young children and pregnant women.
3) It is very common that patients and others met in the course of life, report having been made very sick via the flu shot. This was confirmed for me in one of the articles I am posting here, in which the author, a scientist, pointed out a study in which fully one third of the participants suffered flu like symptoms from the flu vaccine.
I have also observed that in some of these cases, that sickness adversely affects their basic health over a period of months.
4) When I mention the above point to any given group of several individuals, I invariably have someone chime in with a confirming story: "Yes, that exactly happened to my mother, grandfather, aunt, etc."
5) Mortality rates have not significantly changed from year to year for influenza despite the wider introduction of vaccines.
6) The current Swine Flu has already significantly modified, and for the great majority of affected individuals, will strike them with the force of a normal flu.
7) Tom Jefferson, MD, is considered the world's leading authority on influenza vaccinations. He has authored ten reviews for the Cochrane Collaboration out of the University of British Columbia, which is the most respected international center that evaluates medical research. Dr. Jefferson has asserted, "There is no evidence whatsoever that seasonal influenza vaccines have any effect, especially in the elderly and young children No evidence of reduced cases, deaths, complications." Dr. Jefferson further asserts, "What you see every year as the flu is caused by 200 or 300 different agents with a vaccine against two of them. That is simply nonsense." Further, Dr. Jefferson has also declared, "the H1N1 is not a major threat"(this link is to an excellent short interview with him).
Dr. Jefferson has noted that Australia has just completed its winter, and there were only 131 deaths related to flu out of 22 million Australians.
8) "When it comes to swine flu vaccines, any honest look at the math reveals that 200,000 people will have to be vaccinated with a largely untested experimental vaccine in order to prevent the death of one person.
Remembering that more than one person in 200,000 will almost certainly be killed by the vaccine itself, it really makes you wonder:
What's the point of all this? The point, of course, is to sell vaccines."
http://www.naturalnews.com/026955_swine_flu_vaccines_flu_vaccines.html
I don't think it is that alone. Vaccination as an idea is taken as remarkable and final fact, therefore is promoted by all upstanding elements of society as what is expected of us by our physicians. Media, politicians, health authorities move in lock step. It is rather intimidating, but are they correct? Are we really looking at the evidence that may be there of deeper and subtler effects to the human organism through the current aggressive general vaccination programs that start at infancy, of which the flu vaccine is threatening to become an integral part.
Two more points:
1) The media is promoting Tamiful, an antiviral drug derived from Star Anise, as the only solution to the virus. There are numerous immune enhancing substances in nature that can significantly decrease susceptibility and the seriousness of an infection. Furthermore, Tamiflu is not without side-effects and Tamiflu resistance is growing world-wide.
2) Given the amount of AIDS and TB around, among epidemics the current influenza is like a mouse in a world of lion's.
Recommended Reading:
http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?ID=1121
http://sites.google.com/site/doctorrmosk/the-case-against-immunizations
The author of these two articles, Dr. Richard Moskowitz, is a man I've met a number of times. He is a medical doctor from Boston who specializes in homeopathy. He is a very grounded individual who is offering in these articles a quality discussion of the issues that is rarely seen in the public arena.
General flu season recommendations:
Regarding products recommended - I am willing to send products out. Just email or call the office. We also make available a homeopathic first aid kit that covers many common conditions.
1) Wash hands regularly. Also drawing water up each nostril and blowing it out is a simple way to clear viruses and bacteria from the nose.
2) A good botanical immune tonic from a health food store or this office, to be used more or less throughout the flu season. Should contain combinations of some of the following plants: Astragalus, Echinacea, Reishi mushroom, Siberian ginseng, Holy Basil, Andrographis, Uncaria. Alternately Reishi mushroom alone, available in capsules, offers potent immune enhancement.
3) Vitamin C 1000 - two or three times daily for adults, 1000 for children.
4) Vitamin D 1000 IU 2 times daily for children and up to 4000 IU for adults. A very significant amount of research supports the value of Vitamin D in enhancing immunity and reducing serious bouts of the flu. It may not prevent illness, but it will likely
5) If a family member contracts the flu, contact this office and have the entire family put on the remedies most indicate for the affected person, which may have a prophylactic value to unaffected members.
6) Taking care to get adequate rest.
7) Probiotics - High quality oral Lactobacilli or Bifidobacteria species have been shown to enhance overall immunity and reducing inflammation.
8) Homeopathic influenzinum 9C and Osciloccinum one dose of each every three weeks throughout the flu season. The homeopathic remedies Baptisia and Arsenicum album (in Canada called Metallicum album) in 30th potency are valuable remedies to consider, although there are other remedies of great potential value. Bryonia and Eupatorium perfoliatum are also very valuable remedies. I stand by my 25 years of experience that homeopathic remedies can remarkably modify the severity and length of acute illness.
9) For those associated with the Univera product line, Immunoburst, still awaiting Health Canada approval, but available in the States, is an excellent protective as it contains Wellmune WG beta glucan, a highly effective immune enhancing agent, along with Colostrum and a host of other potent substances. This product should be available in Canada by late November. Along with this, the Univera product Solanyx offers valuable support for someone who may be suffering an acute infectious illness. It contains both a daytime and night time component to support both maximum immunity and rest.
This from:
H1N1 Vaccine – Weighing The Risks (DRAFT)
As of November 1st, all provinces and territories in Canada will have begun their vaccination program against pandemic H1N1 influenza.1 Across the nation, the numbers of new hospitalizations, ICU admissions and deaths reported the week of October 18-24th, 2009 were approximately three times higher than the previous week.
Making an informed decision about the H1N1 pandemic vaccine is very challenging at this time as relevant information is being updated daily and some information is not yet available. Below you will find a summary of the information that is currently available about serious H1N1 infections and vaccine complications.
Disclaimer
This is by no means a comprehensive representation of the information that every person will need in order to make their H1N1 vaccination decision and it is not meant as a substitute for information and advice provided by your primary health care provider. Dr. Bailetti assumes no responsibility from any effects associated with making decisions about vaccinations and the opinions included do not represent the opinions of anyone other than the author at the time of writing. Any decision regarding your health should be made in consultation with your health care provider. All efforts were made to ensure the accuracy of information as of the date of writing.
What is the risk of a serious H1N1 infection?
The overall risk of a serious H1N1 infection is estimated to be small2 and the risk appears similar to that associated with the seasonal influenza virus.3,4 The majority of people infected with H1N1 experience mild symptoms and recover rapidly without the need for hospitalization or medical care.5
Below are some H1N1 statistics:
As of Sept 26th, 1,479 people have been hospitalized with H1N1 in Canada and 20% of cases were admitted to an intensive care unit.6 The estimated number of people who die from H1N1 if they catch H1N1 (in the U.S.) is 0.05%.7
As of October 30th 2009, 95 people have died due to H1N1 in Canada.8 In comparison, the number of deaths due to influenza viruses reported by Statistics Canada in 2003 was 2189, in 2004 was 29610 and in 2005 was 67811. These numbers a quite a bit lower than the number of deaths due to influenza reported per year by the Public Health Agency of Canada, (2,000-8,000
eaths).12 o As of September 6th 2009, th
Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.13
Preliminary research shows that those with previous seasonal flu shot are at increased risk of infection with H1N1.27
The Public Health Agency of Canada regularly updates geographic maps illustrating the relative incidence of H1N1 infections. They are available from this website: http://dsol-smed.phac-aspc.gc.ca/dsol-smed/fluwatch/fluwatch.phtml?lang=e . For a summary of the number of deaths, hospitalizations and ICU admissions per province as of October 24th 2009, visit this website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
What risks are associated with the H1N1 vaccine?
• There is limited information available about adverse events associated with the H1N1 vaccine because the clinical trials are still in progress (as of October 21st 2009 only two small clinical trials in adults have been conducted).28
• Once vaccination begins, the Public Health Agency of Canada has declared they will prepare a weekly report summarizing the adverse events reported in Canada on Fightflu.ca.29
• GlaxoSmithKline is the manufacturer of the AREPANRIX™ vaccine and they have identified the following reactions with their product:
(Tessler comments: I would not believe the following statistics for one second. As I explained earlier, vaccine clinical studies are inherently flawed due to the immense prejudice in favor of vaccination that exists within the medical community. I have no doubt that this invariably taints research.)
• Very common (may occur with more than 1 in 10 doses, are usually mild and only last one or two days):
Reactions at the injection site such as bruising, itching and warmth
Fever
Swollen lympth nodes
Feeling sick, diarrhea
• Uncommon (may occur with up to 1 in 100 doses):
Dizziness
Generally feeling unwell
Unusual weakness
Vomiting, stomach pain, uncomfortable feeling in the stomach or belching after eating
Inability to sleep
Tingling or numbness of the hands or feet
Shortness of breath
Pain in the chest
Itching, rash
Pain in the back or neck, stiffness in the muscles, muscle spasms, pain in extremity such as leg or hand
• Rare (may occur with up to 1 in 1000 doses):
Allergic reactions leading to a dangerous decrease of blood pressure, which, if untreated, may lead to shock. Doctors are aware of this possibility and have emergency treatment available for use in such cases
Fits
Severe stabbing or throbbing pain along one or more nerves
Low blood platelet count which can result in bleeding or bruising
• Very Rare (may occur with up to 1 in 10,000 doses):
Vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels which can cause skin rashes, joint pain and kidney problems)
Neurological disorders such as encephalomyelitis (inflammation of the central nervous system), neuritis (inflammation of nerves) and a type of paralysis known a Guillain-Barré Syndrome30
• According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the average rate of adverse reaction of any vaccine is 1 in 100,000 vaccines distributed31. The number of vaccines actually administered to Canadians is not currently tracked in Canada, therefore the average rate is likely more than 1 in 100,000 since some of the doses delivered to clinics and hospitals are not administered. For a more in depth discussion of vaccine risks, please refer to the the Risk of Vaccines section in Childhood Vaccinations – Answers to Your
Questions by Katia Bailetti ND. This book is currently being revised. The new edition will be released soon. To place your order: http://www.doctormom.me/vaccine_resources.htm
• The systems in place to maximize vaccine safety include regulatory bodies, clinical trial requirements for licensing, postlicensing surveillance, and research. For more information, please review vaccine safety information from the Public Health Agency of Canada at www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/im/vs-sv/caefiss-eng.php. In spite of these checks and balances, a number of safety issues remain such as underreporting of serious vaccine complications, lack of long-term safety studies, few randomized placebo-controlled trials, conflicts of interest, little independent evaluation of vaccine safety and lack of safety guidelines for vaccine components. For a discussion of these safety issues, please refer to the Safety section in Childhood Vaccinations – Answers to Your Questions by Katia Bailetti ND. This book is currently being revised. The new edition will be released soon. To place your order: http://www.doctormom.me/vaccine_resources.htm
Recommendations for decreasing your risk of a serious infection
Ration your Halloween candy! Sugar is an immune suppressant.
Do not share drinks, utensils, wind instruments, toothbrushes or lipstick with others as all of these objects can transfer virus-containing saliva from one person to another.
If someone is coughing or sneezing around you, give them space (2 meters).
Wash hands thoroughly and often and keep your home clean. Especially after riding public transit, shaking hands, entering your home, touching money or your wallet, before eating and before touching your face, after touching someone who is sick.
The H1N1 Flu Virus can live outside the body on hard surfaces, such as stainless steel and plastic, for up to 48 hours and on soft surfaces, such as cloth, paper, and tissues for less than 8-12 hours; however, it can only infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on hard surfaces, and for up to a few minutes after being deposited on soft surfaces. Even though your hands may be clean, objects you bring into your home may not be. Be aware of where purses, packpacks and jackets have been (bathrooms, public transit, medical clinics) and avoid placing them on the dining room table or beds. Take your shoes off especially if you have little people crawling or sitting on the floors.
Discourage visits to your home from people who are sick or who have a lot of contact with sick people. Ensure play dates are scheduled on days where everyone is healthy.
Get good quality sleep as it is essential for proper immune system function.
Stress disrupts normal immune system function. Avoid unnecessary stress or manage it with relaxation techniques and empower your children to manage their stress too.
Toxins can interfere with immune function. Make conscious decisions to avoid toxins in your air, food and water.
If you or your child is sick, keep them home, when possible. If the immune system is fighting off an infection, it will likely be more susceptible to other infections and to developing serious complications. Encourage friends, family and coworkers to stay home if they are sick.
Continue to breastfeed your infants. Breastfed children have fewer respiratory infections while they are being breastfed and for years after.
Visit your naturopathic doctor for information on how to optimize your immune function through diet and lifestyle, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, hydrotherapy and homeopathic remedies. Also inquire about the benefits of fevers and natural fever management.
Stay informed about local outbreaks and new vaccine safety information.
Recommendations for decreasing your risk of a serious vaccine complication
Ensure your child is healthy before getting vaccinated.
Review the list of vaccine contraindications and cautions with your health care provider prior to receiving the vaccine.
Speak to your naturopathic doctor about natural vaccine support pre and post vaccination.
Stay in your doctor’s office for at least 15 minutes after each injection. In the event of an anaphylactic reaction, you want to be close to life-saving medication.
Monitor your child closely after each injection and allow their body time to recover. Minimize their exposure to extreme temperature changes, large crowds and significant travel for at least a week after.
Be cautious about lowering mild fevers as they are useful for helping the body recover from infections.
Seek medical help promptly if your child develops any symptoms that concern you.
**FYI - Canada does not have a national compensation program for vaccine complications (Quebec is the only province with a compensation program).
Resources (soon to be added)
References
1 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t2
2http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
3 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php ,
4 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
5 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php
6 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
7 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
8 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/surveillance-eng.php
9 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2003000.pdf
10 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2007/statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2004000.pdf
11 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2009/statcan/84F0209X/84f0209x2005000-eng.pdf
12 Public Health Agency of Canada. Frequently Asked Questions - H1N1 Flu Virus. Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
13 Public Health Agency of Canada. Overall Influenza Summary Week 36 (September 6 to 12 2009). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/pdf/fw2009-36-eng.pdf.. Accessed October 15, 2005.
14 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
15 Public Health Agency of Canada. September 6th 2009 to September 12th 2009 (Week 36). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/index-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
16 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
17 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
18 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
19 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
20 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
21 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2007/statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2004000.pdf
22 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2009/statcan/84F0209X/84f0209x2005000-eng.pdf
23 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2003000.pdf
24 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
25 Public Health Agency of Canada. September 6th 2009 to September 12th 2009 (Week 36). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/index-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
26 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
27 http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2009/09/23/flu-shots-h1n1-seasonal.html
28 Public Health Agency of Canada. Guidance Document on the Use of Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) 2009. Inactivated Monovalent Vaccine October 21, 2009. Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
29 Public Health Agency of Canada. Frequently Asked Questions H1N1 Flu Virus. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php#vac
30 Health Canada. Product Information Leaflet Arepanrix™ H1N1 AS03-Adjuvanted H1N1 Pandemic Influenza Vaccine. Health Canada Web site. Available online: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodpharma/legislation/interimorders-arretesurgence/prodinfo-vaccin-eng.php#a37
31
Update: 11/08/09
Well, so far finding people with swine flu is a little like finding a WMD in Iraq. The rumor is there, we're told its there, but mostly we find regular seasonal flu, coughs and colds. That we're seeing as much of as any other year. What we are seeing much, much more of this year is one of the worst diseases to ever afflict mankind: Fear/Panic. When in fear, people no longer think rationally but act instinctively and according to the behest of those who talk, as if they know. The problem is that they don't know. They are just higher on the pecking order of ignorance. Personally, I'd love to know
who are the PR firms that direct this whole play. The Vancouver Sun has not let up with its multi-page, highlighted headline drum beat of fear and immunization, not for one day.
Here is a new link by Neurosurgeon Russell Blaylock who discusses the research based non-efficacy of the vaccines (though there is also a lot of right wing nut-bar stuff on his website as well, so this is not a general endorsement):
http://www.russellblaylockmd.com/
At this early stage, it is hard to know the extent to which the H1N1 Swine flu will affect the population or how seriously, though there are trends. It is certain that the panic generated around it is quite considerable. The media and general public pressure to vaccinate, at fever pitch. The latest news is of overwhelmed switchboards and emergency rooms packed with mothers or fathers and children.
The other day in the Vancouver Sun, headlines tell of three more deaths, but then mentions that all were high risk individuals. The daily media drumbeat is something to see. On CNN I watched Anderson start with a the headline, "Nineteen more deaths" followed by physician Sanjay Gupta state that in reality, at the end of the day there would likely be LESS deaths this year from the flu then in a normal year, that for the vast majority, their exposure to H1N1 would amount to nothing more then a regular bout of flu. In fact, so far almost all deaths have been in individuals with "pre-exsiting conditions". Also, it is worth noting that obesity, particularly serious obesity, has been identified as a risk factor in serious swine flu complications. Here is one article among many, discussing the evidence.
http://www.naturalnews.com/026602_pandemic_swine_flu_health.html
If you put "swine flu and obesity" in your search engine, there are multiple articles using the same references.
One of the main features of obesity is the increased inflammation in the body:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1783744/. This suggests the possibility that a serious incident of the flu might lead to an inflammatory cascade, particularly affecting the lungs, that may lead to death in some cases.
Of great concern is the fact that this particular flu seems to be affecting fairly young people, quite outside the normal population at risk. Though "pre-existing conditions" are still a factor in this younger population, and high rates of youth obesity in North America, may also be a factor, it is still interesting that younger people are being affected. There may be diverse and interesting reasons for this and this is worth exploring in and of itself. As it happens, about 35,000 people a year die of the flu in North America, long after the introduction of the flu vaccine for at risk groups. So the fear of a deadly bout of flu virus must be measured against the reality of the numbers and population groups most likely to be affected.
The vaccine program being promoted is not that popular, despite the fear. As a subscriber to the Vancouver Sun, it has been intriguing to read the drumbeat of vaccination on every page. In fact, the annual flu vaccine promotion intensifies with every passing year.
Last week I was involved in a conversation with several American physicians. One was speaking of a previous flu epidemic. He said that he never saw anyone die of the flu, but he saw two people die from the vaccine and two kids go into anaphylactic shock requiring hospitalization. This kind of information doesn't make it to the surface.
Thoughts:
1) When we are told that the swine flu vaccine is "proven safe", this must be taken with a grain of salt. Vaccine research is tainted by the sacramental nature of vaccines, wherein vaccination has become the baptismal rite into the church of modern medicine. My view is that vaccination is not like the natural disease, does not generally enter the body like the natural disease and therefore it alters immunity. It does not enhance general immunity. (See the second article under recommended reading).
I once had a patient who was a nurse and participated in a very large vaccine study involving children throughout the lower mainland. She said that hundreds of kids reacted, but that the two physicians overseeing the study did not accept one single child's reaction as due to the vaccine. Furthermore, she said, one child went into anaphylactic shock and the individual who was in overall charge of the study instructed the involved nurses to tell the parents that it had nothing to do with the vaccine. This is a very good indication of the quality of evidence around vaccines.
2) Flu shots were once promoted to specific population groups, mainly seniors, despite very poor research support for their value. Now they are promoted to everyone, including very young children and pregnant women.
3) It is very common that patients and others met in the course of life, report having been made very sick via the flu shot. This was confirmed for me in one of the articles I am posting here, in which the author, a scientist, pointed out a study in which fully one third of the participants suffered flu like symptoms from the flu vaccine.
I have also observed that in some of these cases, that sickness adversely affects their basic health over a period of months.
4) When I mention the above point to any given group of several individuals, I invariably have someone chime in with a confirming story: "Yes, that exactly happened to my mother, grandfather, aunt, etc."
5) Mortality rates have not significantly changed from year to year for influenza despite the wider introduction of vaccines.
6) The current Swine Flu has already significantly modified, and for the great majority of affected individuals, will strike them with the force of a normal flu.
7) Tom Jefferson, MD, is considered the world's leading authority on influenza vaccinations. He has authored ten reviews for the Cochrane Collaboration out of the University of British Columbia, which is the most respected international center that evaluates medical research. Dr. Jefferson has asserted, "There is no evidence whatsoever that seasonal influenza vaccines have any effect, especially in the elderly and young children No evidence of reduced cases, deaths, complications." Dr. Jefferson further asserts, "What you see every year as the flu is caused by 200 or 300 different agents with a vaccine against two of them. That is simply nonsense." Further, Dr. Jefferson has also declared, "the H1N1 is not a major threat"(this link is to an excellent short interview with him).
Dr. Jefferson has noted that Australia has just completed its winter, and there were only 131 deaths related to flu out of 22 million Australians.
8) "When it comes to swine flu vaccines, any honest look at the math reveals that 200,000 people will have to be vaccinated with a largely untested experimental vaccine in order to prevent the death of one person.
Remembering that more than one person in 200,000 will almost certainly be killed by the vaccine itself, it really makes you wonder:
What's the point of all this? The point, of course, is to sell vaccines."
http://www.naturalnews.com/026955_swine_flu_vaccines_flu_vaccines.html
I don't think it is that alone. Vaccination as an idea is taken as remarkable and final fact, therefore is promoted by all upstanding elements of society as what is expected of us by our physicians. Media, politicians, health authorities move in lock step. It is rather intimidating, but are they correct? Are we really looking at the evidence that may be there of deeper and subtler effects to the human organism through the current aggressive general vaccination programs that start at infancy, of which the flu vaccine is threatening to become an integral part.
Two more points:
1) The media is promoting Tamiful, an antiviral drug derived from Star Anise, as the only solution to the virus. There are numerous immune enhancing substances in nature that can significantly decrease susceptibility and the seriousness of an infection. Furthermore, Tamiflu is not without side-effects and Tamiflu resistance is growing world-wide.
2) Given the amount of AIDS and TB around, among epidemics the current influenza is like a mouse in a world of lion's.
Recommended Reading:
http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?ID=1121
http://sites.google.com/site/doctorrmosk/the-case-against-immunizations
The author of these two articles, Dr. Richard Moskowitz, is a man I've met a number of times. He is a medical doctor from Boston who specializes in homeopathy. He is a very grounded individual who is offering in these articles a quality discussion of the issues that is rarely seen in the public arena.
General flu season recommendations:
Regarding products recommended - I am willing to send products out. Just email or call the office. We also make available a homeopathic first aid kit that covers many common conditions.
1) Wash hands regularly. Also drawing water up each nostril and blowing it out is a simple way to clear viruses and bacteria from the nose.
2) A good botanical immune tonic from a health food store or this office, to be used more or less throughout the flu season. Should contain combinations of some of the following plants: Astragalus, Echinacea, Reishi mushroom, Siberian ginseng, Holy Basil, Andrographis, Uncaria. Alternately Reishi mushroom alone, available in capsules, offers potent immune enhancement.
3) Vitamin C 1000 - two or three times daily for adults, 1000 for children.
4) Vitamin D 1000 IU 2 times daily for children and up to 4000 IU for adults. A very significant amount of research supports the value of Vitamin D in enhancing immunity and reducing serious bouts of the flu. It may not prevent illness, but it will likely
5) If a family member contracts the flu, contact this office and have the entire family put on the remedies most indicate for the affected person, which may have a prophylactic value to unaffected members.
6) Taking care to get adequate rest.
7) Probiotics - High quality oral Lactobacilli or Bifidobacteria species have been shown to enhance overall immunity and reducing inflammation.
8) Homeopathic influenzinum 9C and Osciloccinum one dose of each every three weeks throughout the flu season. The homeopathic remedies Baptisia and Arsenicum album (in Canada called Metallicum album) in 30th potency are valuable remedies to consider, although there are other remedies of great potential value. Bryonia and Eupatorium perfoliatum are also very valuable remedies. I stand by my 25 years of experience that homeopathic remedies can remarkably modify the severity and length of acute illness.
9) For those associated with the Univera product line, Immunoburst, still awaiting Health Canada approval, but available in the States, is an excellent protective as it contains Wellmune WG beta glucan, a highly effective immune enhancing agent, along with Colostrum and a host of other potent substances. This product should be available in Canada by late November. Along with this, the Univera product Solanyx offers valuable support for someone who may be suffering an acute infectious illness. It contains both a daytime and night time component to support both maximum immunity and rest.
This from:
H1N1 Vaccine – Weighing The Risks (DRAFT) As of November 1st, all provinces and territories in Canada will have begun their vaccination program against pandemic H1N1 influenza.1 Across the nation, the numbers of new hospitalizations, ICU admissions and deaths reported the week of October 18-24th, 2009 were approximately three times higher than the previous week.
Making an informed decision about the H1N1 pandemic vaccine is very challenging at this time as relevant information is being updated daily and some information is not yet available. Below you will find a summary of the information that is currently available about serious H1N1 infections and vaccine complications.
Disclaimer
This is by no means a comprehensive representation of the information that every person will need in order to make their H1N1 vaccination decision and it is not meant as a substitute for information and advice provided by your primary health care provider. Dr. Bailetti assumes no responsibility from any effects associated with making decisions about vaccinations and the opinions included do not represent the opinions of anyone other than the author at the time of writing. Any decision regarding your health should be made in consultation with your health care provider. All efforts were made to ensure the accuracy of information as of the date of writing.
What is the risk of a serious H1N1 infection?
The overall risk of a serious H1N1 infection is estimated to be small2 and the risk appears similar to that associated with the seasonal influenza virus.3,4 The majority of people infected with H1N1 experience mild symptoms and recover rapidly without the need for hospitalization or medical care.5
Below are some H1N1 statistics:
As of Sept 26th, 1,479 people have been hospitalized with H1N1 in Canada and 20% of cases were admitted to an intensive care unit.6 The estimated number of people who die from H1N1 if they catch H1N1 (in the U.S.) is 0.05%.7
As of October 30th 2009, 95 people have died due to H1N1 in Canada.8 In comparison, the number of deaths due to influenza viruses reported by Statistics Canada in 2003 was 2189, in 2004 was 29610 and in 2005 was 67811. These numbers a quite a bit lower than the number of deaths due to influenza reported per year by the Public Health Agency of Canada, (2,000-8,000
eaths).12 o As of September 6th 2009, th
Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.13
- There is a higher risk of a serious infection in the following groups: o People with an underlying medical conditions have 5 times greater risk than those withou14
- nderlying medical condition was present in 79% of the people who died from H1N1.15 o Pregnant women have 4-5 times greater risk. The risk appears to be
- ver two thirds of hospitalized cases occur in the third trimester.16 o As of October 24th, 2009, 4 deaths due to H1N1 have been reported in children under 16 years of age.17 Children less than 2 years of age have the highest rate of hospitalization, Intensive Care Unit admission, and ventilation rates of all age groups.18 472 pediatric hospitalizations have been repsince the beginning of the pandemic and 89.8% of these hospitalizations were due to Pandemic (H1N1) 2009.19 In the first wave, 54.4% of reported H1N1 influenza cases (not deaths) in Canada occurred in people under 20 years of age. The highest hospitalization rates were seen in childreunder 15 years (10.4 cases per 100,000).20 By comparison, in 2004 there were 3 deaths due to influenza in children 14 years and younger21 (2 were less than 12 months and 1 was between 1 and 4 years) and 1 death in a child aged between 1 and 4 year22
- 23
- Adults over 45 years of age and over have the highest mortality rate24 25 o People living in remote areas, particularly First Nations, Inuit and Metis populations, have also experience(0.33 per 100,000)
- eath).26 o For a summary of the characteristics of hospitalized cases, ICU admissions and deaths as of Octobeth
Preliminary research shows that those with previous seasonal flu shot are at increased risk of infection with H1N1.27
The Public Health Agency of Canada regularly updates geographic maps illustrating the relative incidence of H1N1 infections. They are available from this website: http://dsol-smed.phac-aspc.gc.ca/dsol-smed/fluwatch/fluwatch.phtml?lang=e . For a summary of the number of deaths, hospitalizations and ICU admissions per province as of October 24th 2009, visit this website: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
What risks are associated with the H1N1 vaccine?
• There is limited information available about adverse events associated with the H1N1 vaccine because the clinical trials are still in progress (as of October 21st 2009 only two small clinical trials in adults have been conducted).28
• Once vaccination begins, the Public Health Agency of Canada has declared they will prepare a weekly report summarizing the adverse events reported in Canada on Fightflu.ca.29
• GlaxoSmithKline is the manufacturer of the AREPANRIX™ vaccine and they have identified the following reactions with their product:
(Tessler comments: I would not believe the following statistics for one second. As I explained earlier, vaccine clinical studies are inherently flawed due to the immense prejudice in favor of vaccination that exists within the medical community. I have no doubt that this invariably taints research.)
• Very common (may occur with more than 1 in 10 doses, are usually mild and only last one or two days):
- Pain at the injection site
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Redness or swelling at the injection site
- Shivering
- Sweating
- Aching muscles, joint pain
Reactions at the injection site such as bruising, itching and warmth
Fever
Swollen lympth nodes
Feeling sick, diarrhea
• Uncommon (may occur with up to 1 in 100 doses):
Dizziness
Generally feeling unwell
Unusual weakness
Vomiting, stomach pain, uncomfortable feeling in the stomach or belching after eating
Inability to sleep
Tingling or numbness of the hands or feet
Shortness of breath
Pain in the chest
Itching, rash
Pain in the back or neck, stiffness in the muscles, muscle spasms, pain in extremity such as leg or hand
• Rare (may occur with up to 1 in 1000 doses):
Allergic reactions leading to a dangerous decrease of blood pressure, which, if untreated, may lead to shock. Doctors are aware of this possibility and have emergency treatment available for use in such cases
Fits
Severe stabbing or throbbing pain along one or more nerves
Low blood platelet count which can result in bleeding or bruising
• Very Rare (may occur with up to 1 in 10,000 doses):
Vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels which can cause skin rashes, joint pain and kidney problems)
Neurological disorders such as encephalomyelitis (inflammation of the central nervous system), neuritis (inflammation of nerves) and a type of paralysis known a Guillain-Barré Syndrome30
• According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, the average rate of adverse reaction of any vaccine is 1 in 100,000 vaccines distributed31. The number of vaccines actually administered to Canadians is not currently tracked in Canada, therefore the average rate is likely more than 1 in 100,000 since some of the doses delivered to clinics and hospitals are not administered. For a more in depth discussion of vaccine risks, please refer to the the Risk of Vaccines section in Childhood Vaccinations – Answers to Your
Questions by Katia Bailetti ND. This book is currently being revised. The new edition will be released soon. To place your order: http://www.doctormom.me/vaccine_resources.htm
• The systems in place to maximize vaccine safety include regulatory bodies, clinical trial requirements for licensing, postlicensing surveillance, and research. For more information, please review vaccine safety information from the Public Health Agency of Canada at www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/im/vs-sv/caefiss-eng.php. In spite of these checks and balances, a number of safety issues remain such as underreporting of serious vaccine complications, lack of long-term safety studies, few randomized placebo-controlled trials, conflicts of interest, little independent evaluation of vaccine safety and lack of safety guidelines for vaccine components. For a discussion of these safety issues, please refer to the Safety section in Childhood Vaccinations – Answers to Your Questions by Katia Bailetti ND. This book is currently being revised. The new edition will be released soon. To place your order: http://www.doctormom.me/vaccine_resources.htm
Recommendations for decreasing your risk of a serious infection
Ration your Halloween candy! Sugar is an immune suppressant.
Do not share drinks, utensils, wind instruments, toothbrushes or lipstick with others as all of these objects can transfer virus-containing saliva from one person to another.
If someone is coughing or sneezing around you, give them space (2 meters).
Wash hands thoroughly and often and keep your home clean. Especially after riding public transit, shaking hands, entering your home, touching money or your wallet, before eating and before touching your face, after touching someone who is sick.
The H1N1 Flu Virus can live outside the body on hard surfaces, such as stainless steel and plastic, for up to 48 hours and on soft surfaces, such as cloth, paper, and tissues for less than 8-12 hours; however, it can only infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on hard surfaces, and for up to a few minutes after being deposited on soft surfaces. Even though your hands may be clean, objects you bring into your home may not be. Be aware of where purses, packpacks and jackets have been (bathrooms, public transit, medical clinics) and avoid placing them on the dining room table or beds. Take your shoes off especially if you have little people crawling or sitting on the floors.
Discourage visits to your home from people who are sick or who have a lot of contact with sick people. Ensure play dates are scheduled on days where everyone is healthy.
Get good quality sleep as it is essential for proper immune system function.
Stress disrupts normal immune system function. Avoid unnecessary stress or manage it with relaxation techniques and empower your children to manage their stress too.
Toxins can interfere with immune function. Make conscious decisions to avoid toxins in your air, food and water.
If you or your child is sick, keep them home, when possible. If the immune system is fighting off an infection, it will likely be more susceptible to other infections and to developing serious complications. Encourage friends, family and coworkers to stay home if they are sick.
Continue to breastfeed your infants. Breastfed children have fewer respiratory infections while they are being breastfed and for years after.
Visit your naturopathic doctor for information on how to optimize your immune function through diet and lifestyle, nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, hydrotherapy and homeopathic remedies. Also inquire about the benefits of fevers and natural fever management.
Stay informed about local outbreaks and new vaccine safety information.
Recommendations for decreasing your risk of a serious vaccine complication
Ensure your child is healthy before getting vaccinated.
Review the list of vaccine contraindications and cautions with your health care provider prior to receiving the vaccine.
Speak to your naturopathic doctor about natural vaccine support pre and post vaccination.
Stay in your doctor’s office for at least 15 minutes after each injection. In the event of an anaphylactic reaction, you want to be close to life-saving medication.
Monitor your child closely after each injection and allow their body time to recover. Minimize their exposure to extreme temperature changes, large crowds and significant travel for at least a week after.
Be cautious about lowering mild fevers as they are useful for helping the body recover from infections.
Seek medical help promptly if your child develops any symptoms that concern you.
**FYI - Canada does not have a national compensation program for vaccine complications (Quebec is the only province with a compensation program).
Resources (soon to be added)
References
1 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t2
2http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
3 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php ,
4 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
5 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php
6 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
7 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
8 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/surveillance-eng.php
9 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2003000.pdf
10 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2007/statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2004000.pdf
11 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2009/statcan/84F0209X/84f0209x2005000-eng.pdf
12 Public Health Agency of Canada. Frequently Asked Questions - H1N1 Flu Virus. Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
13 Public Health Agency of Canada. Overall Influenza Summary Week 36 (September 6 to 12 2009). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/pdf/fw2009-36-eng.pdf.. Accessed October 15, 2005.
14 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
15 Public Health Agency of Canada. September 6th 2009 to September 12th 2009 (Week 36). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/index-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
16 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
17 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
18 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
19 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w42_09/index-eng.php#t1
20 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
21 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2007/statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2004000.pdf
22 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/collection_2009/statcan/84F0209X/84f0209x2005000-eng.pdf
23 http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/84F0209X/84F0209XIE2003000.pdf
24 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
25 Public Health Agency of Canada. September 6th 2009 to September 12th 2009 (Week 36). Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/fluwatch/09-10/w36_09/index-eng.php. Accessed October 24, 2009.
26 http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
27 http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2009/09/23/flu-shots-h1n1-seasonal.html
28 Public Health Agency of Canada. Guidance Document on the Use of Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) 2009. Inactivated Monovalent Vaccine October 21, 2009. Public Health Agency of Canada Web site. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/vacc/pdf/monovacc-guide-eng.pdf
29 Public Health Agency of Canada. Frequently Asked Questions H1N1 Flu Virus. Available online: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php#vac
30 Health Canada. Product Information Leaflet Arepanrix™ H1N1 AS03-Adjuvanted H1N1 Pandemic Influenza Vaccine. Health Canada Web site. Available online: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodpharma/legislation/interimorders-arretesurgence/prodinfo-vaccin-eng.php#a37
31