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Sunday, May 19, 2019

African Swine Flu (ASF) Signs and Symptoms

image credit: aphis.usda.govAnimal and Plant Health Inspection Service

African swine fever is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease affecting both domestic and wild pigs of all ages. ASF is not a threat to human health and cannot be transmitted from pigs to humans. It is not a food safety issue.
ASF is found in countries around the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. More recently, it has spread through China, Mongolia and Vietnam, as well as within parts of the European Union. It has never been found in the United States – and we want to keep it that way.

New Information Available for African Swine Fever

African Swine Fever Surveillance in the United StatesAPHIS is furthering its overall African swine fever (ASF) preparedness efforts with the implementation of a surveillance plan.  To make this program as effective and efficient as possible, USDA will add ASF testing to our existing classical swine fever (CSF) surveillance. 
The plan, titled Swine Hemorrhagic Fevers: African and Classical Swine Fever Integrated Surveillance Plan, is available in the “Technical Documents” section below.
International African Swine Fever Forum, April 30-May 1, 2019Joint Statement on the International African Swine Fever Forum  
African Swine Fever AssessmentsAPHIS has developed three new resources related to African swine fever:
  • A qualitative assessment of the likelihood of African swine fever virus entry to the United States.
  • A non-animal origin feed ingredient risk evaluation framework.
  • A literature review of non-animal origin feed ingredients and the transmission of viral pathogens of swine.
  These documents are available in the 'Technical Documents' section below.

Why is African Swine Fever a Concern?

ASF is a devastating, deadly disease that would have a significant impact on U.S. livestock producers, their communities and the economy if it were found here. There is no treatment or vaccine available for this disease. The only way to stop this disease is to depopulate all affected or exposed swine herds.
USDA is working closely with other federal and state agencies, the swine industry, and producers to take the necessary actions to protect our nation’s pigs and keep this disease out. This group is also actively preparing to respond if ASF were ever detected in the U.S. 

What Producers and Veterinarians Need to Know

Anyone who works with pigs should be familiar with the signs of ASF:
  • High fever
  • Decreased appetite and weakness
  • Red, blotchy skin or skin lesions
  • Diarrhea and vomiting
  • Coughing and difficulty breathing
Immediately report animals with any of these signs to state or federal animal health officials or call USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593 for appropriate testing and investigation. Timeliness is essential to preventing the spread of ASF.
On-farm biosecurity is crucial to preventing any animal disease from developing and spreading. All pig owners and anyone involved with pig operations should know and follow strict biosecurity practices to help protect U.S. pigs from ASF. Work with your veterinarian to assess your biosecurity plans and make improvements as needed.

What Travelers Need to Know

International travelers could unknowingly bring back this disease from an ASF-affected country, especially if they visit farms. Visit the APHIS traveler page to know which items you can bring back into the United States. Some food items may carry disease and threaten domestic agriculture and livestock. If you go to an ASF-affected country, do not bring back pork or pork products.
Declare any international farm visits to U.S. Customs and Border Protection when you return. Make sure you thoroughly clean and disinfect, or dispose of, any clothing or shoes that you wore around pigs, before returning to the U.S. Do not visit a farm, premises with pigs, livestock market, sale barn, zoo, circus, pet store with pot-bellied pigs, or any other animal facility with pigs for at least 5 days after you return. 
All information are credited to the original writer's sources and references, Please click the link for complete information.

Note: The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as expert advice. 

Saturday, May 18, 2019

How is Canine Brucellosis spread and passed on to Humans?

How is canine brucellosis spread?

Large numbers of B. canis bacteria are shed in the genital secretions (semen or vaginal discharges) of an infected dog. Smaller amounts of bacteria may also be shed in the dog's urine or saliva. After a female dog aborts a pregnancy because of brucellosis, she will continue to discharge fluids infected with the bacteria for 4-6 weeks after the abortion.
dog_m_and_f_brucellosis_ventral_view_20182-01
image credit: cahospitals.com
Dogs are exposed to the disease via contact with infected bodily fluids. Although the most common route of infection is oral (i.e., from licking contaminated urine or discharges from the reproductive tract or licking or chewing placental material or aborted fetuses), dogs can also pick up an infection through sexual transmission, inhalation (sniffing contaminated urine or other discharges), or through other mucous membranes such as the eyes.

Am I at risk for developing brucellosis from an infected dog? 


hand_washing
image credit: cahospitals.com
Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease, or a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Although people can become infected by coming in contact with infected animals, it is uncommon for a person to get a brucellosis infection from a dog.
Breeders and veterinarians exposed to the blood or other secretions of infected animals are at an increased risk of developing an infection; pet owners are not considered to be at risk for infection because they are less likely to come in contact with blood, semen, or uterine discharges from an infected dog.
However, people with compromised immune systems should avoid contact with a dog that is diagnosed with brucellosis.
People who come in contact with breeding dogs, newborn puppies, or aborted fetuses should use caution and practice good sanitation. Whenever possible, wear disposable gloves before handling newborn puppies or cleaning an area where a dog has whelped. After removal of the disposable gloves, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and rinse well.
All information are credited to the original writer's sources and references, Please click the link for complete information.

Note: The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as expert advice. 

Brucellosis in Dogs' Symptoms,Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

What are Brucellosis? 

While there are several strains of Brucella that can infect your dog, the most common one is Brucella Canis. This bacterium is typically transmitted during breeding and typically comes from an infected female. There are some brucellosis specific symptoms to look for, however, many of them are more generalized and may not present as a bigger problem. Canine brucellosis is a bacterial infection that can cause issues in reproduction in both male and females dogs. It is caused by the Brucella Canis bacterium typically. 


Symptoms as stated above can vary and while there are some very specific ones to keep an eye out for, many of your dog’s symptoms may be general to multiple disorders and illnesses:

 Lethargy 
Loss of libido 
Premature aging 
Lymph node enlargement 
Bone infections 
Joint infections 
Ocular disease 
Discospondylitis (infection or inflammation of the spinal column) 
Spontaneous abortion in the 3rd trimester (between days 45 and 94) 
Stillborn puppies 
Unexplained infertility 
After loss of puppies, female dogs may suffer from long lasting vaginal discharge 
Inflamed prostate 
Swollen or shrunken testicles 
Swollen epididymis

Types 

There are a few strains of Brucella, however, the most common one in your dog will be Brucella Canis. Other types will be identified below: 
Brucella suis (pigs)
 Brucella abortus (cattle) 
Brucella canis (B. canis) – most common in dogs
 Brucella melitensis (cheep & cattle) 

While these types are all capable of being transmitted to dogs, it is rare. All strains can also be passed on to humans as well. The tissues after birth, abortion, or secretions during mating are all highly contagious and infected with Brucella.

Causes of Brucellosis in Dogs 

The cause of Brucella will always be coming into contact with the bacteria. This can be done through sexual contact, urine, nasal, ocular or other infected fluid. 
 Brucella canis – sexually transmitted disease in dogs 
Brucella suis – contracted from pigs, livestock or blood, urine or other secretions 
Brucella abortus – may be contracted if your dog comes into contact with aborted cattle tissues or bison 
Brucella melitensis - livestock

Diagnosis of Brucellosis in Dogs

If you suspect your dog has been infected by one of the Brucella strains, it will be very important to take him or her to a veterinarian immediately. This is due to the highly contagious nature of Brucella. 

 Your veterinarian will need to know if your dog has been near any potentially infected livestock or wild boars (Brucella suis.) It will also be important to share with your veterinarian if your dog was recently pregnant and lost the puppies without explanation. However, if you have a male dog you will look for any signs of discomfort during breeding or disfigured testicles.  

The primary test done will be blood tests in order to determine what your dog is affected by and what type of Brucella he or she is dealing with. These blood tests are most accurate during the first 8 weeks of infection. 

Treatment of Brucellosis in Dogs 

Treatment options can be broken down into a few sections – treatment of symptoms, isolation, disinfection and possibly euthanasia. Brucella is a very difficult bacterial infection to treat and the outcomes, unfortunately, are not great. Oftentimes the only answer is euthanizing the infected dog. Depending on your state, treatment may not be an option due to the ongoing infection possibility. Once the infection gets into your dog’s blood stream, joints, and bones he can spread the infection through shedding it later on. 

Treatment of Symptoms 

In order to treat the symptoms your veterinarian may suggest several weeks of antibiotics. Unfortunately, this route is not guaranteed to work and the relapse potential is high. Your veterinarian may suggest spaying/neutering your dog as well as this has been shown to prevent future transmission of the diseases. However, spaying/neutering is not guaranteed to fix the problem immediately as it does not treat the bacterial infection and antibiotics will be needed as well. Even with medication your male dog will always carry the bacteria in his prostate gland.  

Isolation 

Any animal that tests positive for Brucella must immediately be removed from the kennel or home if there are other animals there. This is done to try and prevent the continued spreading of the infection. If your dog is in a single dog home, he or she may continue to reside there with treatment at the discretion of you and your veterinarian. 

 In a kennel, all dogs should be tested and isolated as needed due to their positive infection status. The entire kennel, if your dog is at one, will need to be quarantined with no new dogs coming in, no breeding,  or selling taking place.  

Disinfection

 Once your home or the kennel is quarantined, it is important to destroy any and all material that may be infected with Brucella. After that, you may have to clean the entire kennel or your home to ensure the infection is no longer present. Any dogs, including your own, will need to be tested on an ongoing basis to determine if the infection continues or not.

 Euthanasia 

Some states require all dogs infected with the bacteria be euthanized as it is the only proven way to rid an animal of the infection. If your dog lives in a one dog home he or she may be allowed to remain living with you as long as they have an ongoing antibiotic regime and continued testing done. 


Recovery of Brucellosis in Dogs

 When it comes to dealing with Brucella, prevention is the key. In order to avoid infection, you should ensure your dog and any dogs he or she is being bred with has been tested for Brucella. However, if your dog is diagnosed as having been infected with the bacteria, it will be important to follow the directions of your veterinarian to avoid any continued transmission. 
The relapse rate is high due to the fact that your dog may continue to have the infection in his or her joints, bones, blood stream, prostate gland and can shed the infection at later times. Full recovery is not possible for this reason and it is often why euthanasia is recommended by veterinarians. 

 Lastly, if your dog is placed on antibiotics, he or she will have to be tested continuously for at least one year after initial diagnosis and may be on an antibiotic regimen for a significant period of time. Once again please be aware depending on your state’s laws you may not be given an option for treatment and euthanasia may be the only option.

credit/source:  https://wagwalking.com/condition/brucellosis

Note: Please click the link for complete information.All information are credited to the original writer's sources and references, Please click the link for complete information.

The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as expert advice. 

Thursday, May 9, 2019

Monkeypox (MPX) Outbreak,Symptoms,Prevention,Treatment and Vacicne

Images of a child with monkeypox, a lab worker, and vaccine.
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with monkeypox virus.
image credit: CDC Public Health Image Library

Key facts

  • Monkeypox is a rare viral zoonotic disease that occurs primarily in remote parts of central and west Africa, near tropical rainforests.
  • The monkeypox virus is similar to human smallpox, a disease that has been eradicated in 1980. Although monkeypox is much milder than smallpox, it can be fatal.
  • The monkeypox virus is mostly transmitted to people from various wild animals such as rodents and primates, but has limited secondary spread through human-to-human transmission.
  • Typically, case fatality in monkeypox outbreaks has been between 1% and 10%, with most deaths occurring in younger age groups.
  • There is no specific treatment or vaccine available although prior smallpox vaccination was highly effective in preventing monkeypox as well.
Monkeypox is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. 

Monkeypox is a rare viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) with symptoms similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although it is clinically less severe. With the eradication of smallpox in 1980 and subsequent cessation of smallpox vaccination, it has emerged as the most important orthopoxvirus. Monkeypox occurs sporadically in central and western parts of Africa’s tropical rainforest.

Outbreaks

Human monkeypox was first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (then known as Zaire) in a 9 -year -old boy in a region where smallpox had been eliminated in 1968. Since then, the majority of cases have been reported in rural, rainforest regions of the Congo Basin and western Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it is considered to be endemic. In 1996–97, a major outbreak occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

In the spring of 2003, monkeypox cases were confirmed in the United States of America, marking the first reported occurrence of the disease outside of the African continent. Most of the patients were reported to have had close contact with pet prairie dogs that were infected by African rodents that had been imported into the country.

Sporadic cases of monkeypox have been reported from west and central African countries, and with increasing awareness more countries are identifying and reporting cases. Since 1970 human cases of monkeypox have been reported from 10 African countries – Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Gabon and South Sudan. In 2017 Nigeria experienced the largest documented outbreak, approximately 40 years since the country had last confirmed cases of monkeypox.

Transmission

Infection of index cases results from direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. In Africa human infections have been documented through the handling of infected monkeys, Gambian giant rats and squirrels, with rodents being the most likely reservoir of the virus. Eating inadequately cooked meat of infected animals is a possible risk factor.
Secondary, or human-to-human, transmission can result from close contact with infected respiratory tract secretions, skin lesions of an infected person or objects recently contaminated by patient fluids or lesion materials. Transmission occurs primarily via droplet respiratory particles usually requiring prolonged face-to-face contact, which puts household members of active cases at greater risk of infection. Transmission can also occur by inoculation or via the placenta (congenital monkeypox). There is no evidence, to date, that person-to-person transmission alone can sustain monkeypox infections in the human population.

In recent animal studies of the prairie dog-human monkeypox model, two distinct clades of the virus were identified – the Congo Basin and the West African clades – with the former found to be more virulent.

Signs and symptoms

The incubation period (interval from infection to onset of symptoms) of monkeypox is usually from 6 to 16 days but can range from 5 to 21 days.
The infection can be divided into two periods:
  • the invasion period (0-5 days) characterized by fever, intense headache, lymphadenopathy (swelling of the lymph node), back pain, myalgia (muscle ache) and an intense asthenia (lack of energy);
  • the skin eruption period (within 1-3 days after appearance of fever) in which the various stages of the rash appear often beginning on the face and then spreading elsewhere on the body. The face (in 95% of cases), and palms of the hands and soles of the feet (in 75% of cases) are most affected. Evolution of the rash from maculopapules (lesions with a flat bases) to vesicles (small fluid-filled blisters), pustules, followed by crusts occurs in approximately 10 days. Three weeks might be necessary before the complete disappearance of the crusts.
The number of the lesions varies from a few to several thousand, affecting oral mucous membranes (in 70% of cases), genitalia (30%), and conjunctivae (eyelid) (20%), as well as the cornea (eyeball).
Some patients develop severe lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) before the appearance of the rash, which is a distinctive feature of monkeypox compared to other similar diseases.

Monkeypox is usually a self-limited disease with the symptoms lasting from 14 to 21 days. Severe cases occur more commonly among children and are related to the extent of virus exposure, patient health status and severity of complications.

People living in or near the forested areas may have indirect or low-level exposure to infected animals, possibly leading to subclinical (asymptomatic) infection.

The case fatality has varied widely between epidemics but has been less than 10% in documented events, mostly among young children. In general, younger age-groups appear to be more susceptible to monkeypox disease.

Diagnosis

The clinical differential diagnoses that must be considered include other rash illnesses, such as, smallpox (even though it is eradicated), chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, syphilis, and medication-associated allergies. Lymphadenopathy during the prodromal stage of illness can be a clinical feature to distinguish monkeypox from smallpox.

Monkeypox can only be diagnosed definitively in the laboratory where the virus can be identified by a number of different tests that need to be conducted in specialized laboratories. If monkeypox is suspected, health workers should take an appropriate sample (see below) and transport it safely to a laboratory with appropriate capacities.

Optimal diagnostic specimens are from lesions – vesicular swabs of lesion exudate or crusts stored in a dry, sterile tube (no viral transport media) and kept cold. Blood and serum can be used but often can be inconclusive because of short duration of viremia and timing of specimen collection. In order to interpret test results it is critical that patient information is provided with the specimens including: a) approximate date of onset of fever, b) date of onset of rash, c) date of specimen collection, d) current status of the individual (stage of rash), and e) age.

Treatment and vaccine

There are no specific treatments or vaccines available for monkeypox infection, but outbreaks can be controlled. Vaccination against smallpox has been proven to be 85% effective in preventing monkeypox in the past but the vaccine is no longer available to the general public after it was discontinued following global smallpox eradication. Nevertheless, prior smallpox vaccination will likely result in a milder disease course.

Natural host of monkeypox virus

In Africa, monkeypox infection has been found in many animal species: rope squirrels, tree squirrels, Gambian rats, striped mice, dormice and primates. Doubts persist on the natural history of the virus and further studies are needed to identify the exact reservoir of the monkeypox virus and how it is maintained in nature.
In the USA, the virus is thought to have been transmitted from African animals to a number of susceptible non-African species (like prairie dogs) with which they were co-housed.

Prevention

Reducing the risk of infection in people

During human monkeypox outbreaks, close contact with other patients is the most significant risk factor for monkeypox virus infection. In the absence of specific treatment or vaccine, the only way to reduce infection in people is by raising awareness of the risk factors and educating people about the measures they can take to reduce exposure to the virus. Surveillance measures and rapid identification of new cases is critical for outbreak containment.
Public health educational messages should focus on the following risks:
  • Reducing the risk of animal-to-human transmission. Efforts to prevent transmission in endemic regions should focus first on avoiding any contact with rodents and primates and secondly on limiting direct exposure to blood and meat, as well as thoroughly cooking them prior to consumption. Gloves and other appropriate protective clothing should be worn while handling sick animals or their infected tissues, and during slaughtering procedures.
  • Reducing the risk of human-to-human transmission. Close physical contact with monkeypox infected people or contaminated materials should be avoided. Gloves and protective equipment should be worn when taking care of ill people. Regular hand washing should be carried out after caring for or visiting sick people. Isolation of patients either at home or in health facilities is recommended. 

Controlling infection in health-care settings

Health-care workers caring for patients with suspected or confirmed monkeypox virus infection, or handling specimens from them, should implement standard infection control precautions.
Healthcare workers and those treating or exposed to patients with monkeypox or their samples should consider being immunized against smallpox through their national health authorities. Older smallpox vaccines should not be administered to people with comprised immune systems.

Samples taken from people and animals with suspected monkeypox virus infection should be handled by trained staff working in suitably equipped laboratories. Transporting of patient specimens should ensure safe packaging and follow guidelines for infectious substances.

Preventing monkeypox expansion through restrictions on animal trade

Restricting or banning the movement of small African mammals and monkeys may be effective in slowing the expansion of the virus outside Africa.

Captive animals that are potentially infected with monkeypox should be isolated from other animals and placed into immediate quarantine. Any animals that might have come into contact with an infected animal should be quarantined, handled with standard precautions and observed for monkeypox symptoms for 30 days.

WHO response

WHO supports Member States with surveillance, preparedness and outbreak response activities for monkeypox in affected countries.


All information are credited to the original writer's sources and references, Please click the link for complete information.

Note: The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as expert advice. 


Monkeypox History, Causes,Symptoms,Incubation Period and Treatment,

Monkeypox is a relatively rare disease that was first detected in monkeys in Africa in 1958 and resembles smallpox in terms of the skin lesions (pox) seen in humans as part of the physical findings and also because the cause is a virus that is closely related to the smallpox (variola) virus. Monkeypox, smallpox, cowpox, and vaccinia viruses all belong to the same family of viruses, the Poxviridae. Monkeypox belongs to same genus (Orthopoxvirus) as smallpox. The disease is different from smallpox.

Is monkeypox contagious?

Monkeypox may be transferred from animals to people or person to person and has far less mortality (death rate) than smallpox had. The case-fatality rate (death rate) for monkeypox virus infection in Africa varies from about 1%-15% and about 15%-20% in children. Monkeypox virus is endemic in rodent populations in Africa. Smallpox did not infect any endemic animal population and only infected humans. The press and bloggers have occasionally tried to link monkeypox to other diseases such as mad cow diseaseEbolaleprosyyellow fever, and other viral and immunological diseases, but there is no scientific evidence for this.

What is the history of monkeypox?

Monkeypox has a relatively recent history. People first discovered it in monkeys in 1958, although a "vesicular disease in monkeys" was described in the 1860s. The disease, and eventually the causative virus, was named monkeypox because the lesions (pox) seen in monkeys developed like other known pox-forming diseases (pustules that eventually break open, ulcerate, crust over, and some pox form scars in the skin). Later studies showed the "monkeypox" virus was actually sustained endemically in African rodents. It was not until 1970 in Africa (Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo also termed Republic of the Congo, DRC, and Congo), when a 9-year-old boy (who developed smallpox-like lesions) was the first person to eventually be diagnosed with monkeypox. This situation initially caused concern that smallpox may also have an animal reservoir or endemic population that would make eradication of smallpox impossible. Fortunately, this was not the case because monkeypox was found to be a different species of poxvirus, and smallpox was eradicated from the human population by vaccinations in 1979 (currently, only a few research labs have access to smallpox viruses). Monkeypox is now the major Orthopoxvirus (also termed orthopox) that infects humans and fortunately, not frequently. However, vigilance is warranted, as there have been several outbreaks of monkeypox since the 1970s. Although most have occurred in Africa (mainly western and central Africa), there was an outbreak in the U.S. in 2003. This apparently happened when an animal distributor either housed or transported monkeypox-infected African rodents (Gambian rats) with prairie dogs that people later purchased as pets, became "sick," and transmitted the disease to their owners. Other animals like the rope squirrel (Funisciurus anerythrus) and the sun squirrel (Heliosciurus rufobrachium) may transmit the virus to humans in Africa.
In 2017, an outbreak of monkeypox began in Nigeria. The Minister of Health said the virus has spread to 11 states and 74 suspected individuals are affected. This large outbreak is thought to be triggered by river flooding that has caused infected wild animals (especially rodents and monkeys) to more closely associate with humans, thus spreading this zoonotic (transmitted to humans from animals) disease. In September 2018, Dr. Beadsworth in England reported treating three people with monkeypox who had visited Nigeria. Since 2017, Nigeria has had an outbreak with 89 reported infected people and six deaths; the three patients likely were exposed to the virus while visiting Nigeria.

What causes monkeypox? How does monkeypox spread?

An Orthopoxvirus named monkeypox causes monkeypox. The viruses are oval brick-shaped viruses that have a lipoprotein layer with tubules or filaments that cover the viral DNA. There are many members of this viral genus, including such species as variola (smallpox), cowpox, buffalopox, camelpox, rabbitpox, and others. Most species infect a particular animal species but occasionally may infect other mammals.
Monkeypox virus, brick-shaped negative stained virus grown in tissue cultures, visualized by electron microscopy
Figure 1: Monkeypox virus, brick-shaped negative stained virus grown in tissue cultures, visualized by electron microscopy; SOURCE: CDC/Cynthia S. Goldsmith, Inger K. Damon, and Sherif R. Zaki
Transmission of monkeypox is usually by direct contact with infected animals or possibly by eating poorly cooked meat from an infected rodent or monkey. Cutaneous or mucosal lesions on the infected animals are a likely source of transmission to humans, especially when the human skin is broken due to bites, scratches, or other trauma -- are a likely source for virus infection. Human-to-human transfer, probably by infected respiratory droplets, is possible but is not often documented. One study suggested that only about 8%-15% of infections occurred through human-to-human transmission among close family members.

What are risk factors for monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a relatively uncommon disease. Risk factors include animal bites and scratches from infected animals (mainly African rodents or monkeys) or from other rodents (like prairie dogs) that have had contact with African animals infected with the virus. People should avoid eating any meat from such animals is advised. Recent studies have shown that monkeypox can infect several species of mammals, even though the species had never been associated with the virus in their normal environment. Reduce or prevent person-to-person transfer, although infrequent, by avoiding direct physical contact with the patient and having the patient's caregivers wear gloves and face masks.

What are monkeypox symptoms and signs?

The first symptoms that occur are nonspecific -- fever, sweating, malaise, and some patients may develop a coughnausea, and shortness of breath. About two to four days after fever develops, a rash with papules and pustules develops most often on the face and chest, but other body areas may eventually be affected, including mucus membranes inside the nose and mouth. These skin and mucus membrane pox lesions can ulcerate, crust over, and then begin to heal in about 14-21 days. In addition, lymph nodes usually swell during this time. Some pox lesions may become necrotic and destroy sebaceous glands, leaving a depression or pox scar that, with monkeypox, may gradually become less pronounced over a few years. The toxemia that was seen with smallpox is not seen with monkeypox.
Picture of the pustules/papules of characteristic monkeypox rash
Figure 2: Picture of the pustules/papules of characteristic monkeypox rash; SOURCE: World Health Organization (WHO)/Brian W.J. Mahy, BSc, MA, PhD, ScD, DSc

What is the incubation period for monkeypox?

The incubation period (time from exposure to first symptoms) is about seven to 14 days. First symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pains, swollen lymph nodes, and feeling tired. Swollen lymph nodes help distinguish monkeypox from smallpox.

How long is the contagious period for monkeypox?

The infected person is not contagious during the incubation period. However, human cases can be contagious as soon as symptoms develop. The person is contagious until all scabs from the pox lesions fall off. Consequently, the person is usually contagious for about four to five weeks.

How do health care professionals diagnose monkeypox?

The history (especially association with rodents or other animals) and physical exam (present of pox lesions) is presumptive evidence for a diagnosis of monkeypox. Caution is advised. Infectious disease consultants and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) personnel should be notified because this infection may represent two additional problems. First, in the U.S. or other countries, it may likely indicate an outbreak of monkeypox, and informed health authorities may help to identify the source of the infection and prevent its spread. The second problem is unlikely but far more serious; the early symptoms may represent a biological warfare or terrorist attack with smallpox that is mistakenly identified as monkeypox. Consequently, definitive diagnosis of this viral disease, outside of Africa, and especially in developed countries where monkeypox is not endemic, is urged. Most laboratories do not have the reagents to do this testing, so state labs or the CDC will need to process the samples to establish a definitive diagnosis. These tests are based on detecting antigenic structures (usually from skin or pox samples or occasionally serum) specific to either monkeypox virus or immunoglobulin that reacts with the virus. PCR (polymerase chain reaction), ELISA techniques (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), or Western blotting tests (immunoblotting) are the main tests used.

What is the treatment for monkeypox?

The CDC recommends the following:
  • A smallpox vaccination should be administered within two weeks of exposure to monkeypox.
  • Cidofovir (Vistide), an antiviral drug, is suggested for patients with severe, life-threatening symptoms.
  • Vaccinia immune globulin may be used, but efficacy of use has not been documented.
For severe symptoms, supportive measures such as mechanical ventilation may rarely be needed. Consultation with an infectious-diseases expert and the CDC is recommended.

What is the prognosis of monkeypox?

The usual prognosis of patients with monkeypox is good to excellent. Many patients have mild symptoms. However, patients with immune or other compromised health problems (malnutrition, lung problems) may develop complications of secondary bacterial infectionspneumonia, and dehydration. Older estimations of a 10% death rate were published, but in the last 10-15 years, this has been revised to less than 2% of infected individuals, with the worst cases originating from animal-to-human infection, not person to person.

Is it possible to prevent monkeypox with a vaccine?

Monkeypox can be prevented by avoiding eating or touching animals known to acquire the virus in the wild (mainly African rodents and monkeys). Person-to-person transfer has been documented. Patients who have the disease should physically isolate themselves until all of the pox lesions have healed (lost their crusts), and people who are caring for these patients should use barriers (gloves and face masks) to avoid any direct or droplet contact. Caregivers should obtain a smallpox vaccination (see below).
Because smallpox and monkeypox are so closely related, studies have suggested that people vaccinated against smallpox have about an 85% chance of being protected from monkeypox. Consequently, the CDC recommends the following:
  • Patients with depressed immune systems and those who are allergic to latex or smallpox vaccine should not get the smallpox vaccine.
  • Anyone else who has been exposed to monkeypox in the past 14 days should get the smallpox vaccine, including children under 1 year of age, pregnant women, and people with skin conditions.
There is no commercially available vaccine designed specifically for monkeypox.

What research is being done on monkeypox?

Research is ongoing with monkeypox virus. For example, prairie dogs are being used as animal models to test the effectiveness of vaccinations. Several studies are using animal models to test the effectiveness of several antiviral drugs to reduce or eliminate symptoms in experimental infections. Because of the close relationship of smallpox to monkeypox, genetic comparison and genetic alteration studies are likely to be available in the future, along with more rapid detection tests.

Where can people get more information about monkeypox?

Additional information about monkeypox can be found at these web sites:
"Monkeypox," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
"Monkeypox," Medscape.com
credit/source: https://www.medicinenet.com/monkeypox/article.htm#monkeypox_facts
All information are credited to the original writer's sources and references, Please click the link for complete information.

Note: The information contained on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as expert advice.  

Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Lipstick Longevity

LIPSTICK LONGEVITY

photos + post by amy nadine, graphic design by eunice chun
How could I not share with our TBD family my favorite trick for keeping clients’ lip colors on all night, long past the red carpet? Some steps may seem a little odd, but they’ve worked for me for years, so I confidently know that they’ll work for you too. Here’s all you have to do:
STEP ONE: Apply lipstick or matte lip pencil over the entire lip area. My favorites are Bite Beauty High-Pigment Pencils {she’s wearing Poppy above} and Tarte Matte Natural Lip Stains (Fiery is also an amazing matte red} because they’re formulated like matte lipsticks but with easier precision. Don’t fill in your entire lip with a kohl lip liner pencil as it’s too drying and not attractive.
STEP TWO: Blot with a tissue by folding it in half, opening your mouth, placing it in between your upper and lower lips then pressing down.
STEP THREE: Load up an eyeshadow blending brush with loose or pressed powder {translucent works best and if you want to invest in the most finely milled powder that feels like silk, this one is my favorite}. Then powder your entire lip area by pressing and swirling the brush across your lips until they are totally mattified.
STEP FOUR: Apply another layer of lipstick. Using a lip brush helps with precision; I actually dipped the lip brush into the side of the high pigment pencil.
REPEAT STEPS 2-4 and it should last all night. Also, I think you’ll really love the 1940’s look of wearing a “done up” lip but email us and let us know!

Everything you Need to know about your Lip Liner

A subtle shade can add staying power to your lip color of choice or give a well-defined polished look to a neutral gloss with just a tiny bit of of blending.
makeup.com

We're here to sing the praises of lip liner — because it really is necessary. 
Over the past several years it seems someone has been bad-mouthing a tried and true friend of ours: lip liner. Well, we’re here to put all the rumors to rest. The truth is the notion that lip liner is outdated is well…outdated. Celebrity makeup artist Tiffany Hall-Scarmana is with us on our crusade to this fantastic product’s name. In case you’ve been avoiding this little wonder for your lips, let us fill you in on what you’ve been missing. Because lip liner can do magical things.

LIP LINER ADDS DEFINITION TO THE LIPS.

Who doesn’t want full, defined lips? Lip liner is the ticket to the perfect cupid’s bow. Hall-Scarmana also finds that “pairing your lip pencil with a lighter, highlight pencil will keep the lip line clean and can create lift and definition to the lip.” (This trick works wonders on thin upper lips.) “Apply the lighter pencil in bow of the lip, right above your lip liner shade to lift and highlight that area. And when gravity takes a toll we start to see the corner of our lips turn down, use the lighter pencil or concealer to highlight those corners creating a lifted and sculpted look.” Try Cargo Reverse Lip Liner or a concealer pencil one shade lighter than skin, like NYX Wonder Pencil.
LIP LINER PROLONGS THE WEAR OF ANY LIP COLOR.
Applying lip liner before your lipstick or lip gloss helps prevent the color from bleeding or feathering–making it a dream for dark lipstick lovers. Hall-Scarmana suggests using lip liner as a base. Simply lining and filling in your lips with a pencil will give your lip color something to adhere to, thus increasing its staying power. If all that lip liner seems a little daunting, start with a clear lip pencil, like Laura Mercier Lip Pencil in Clear or Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Ozone. Clear pencils do the same job as all the other shades.  

EVEN THE LIPSTICK AVERSE CAN APPRECIATE LIP LINER.

Lip liner is not just for the red lip loving set. Hall-Scarmana notes, “Even if you’re not a big lip wearer, you can still benefit from lip liner. Pick a nude shade that is close to your natural lip color and lightly trace the natural lip line to define the shape. Buff out the edges into the center of the lip with a brush and layer with a clear gloss.” Hall-Scarmana loves the long wear of L’Oréal Infallible Never Fail Lipliner in Nude. It’s the no muss no fuss solution to a pretty pout.  

THE RIGHT APPLICATION MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE.

For a smooth gliding application and a fluid line, Hall-Scarmana recommends prepping lips with a light lip balm before applying lip liner. Part your lips slightly (this will keep your lips closest to their natural shape) and apply the liner using light, short strokes. Always follow your natural lip shape–overdrawn lips are not a good look. If you start to draw the pencil across your lips and it tugs the skin, then the pencil is too hard. Try sharpening the pencil and warming the point between your thumb and index finger to soften it.  
credit/sourec: https://www.makeup.com/lip-liner-basics/