Biomedical subjects
Publications and source records attributed to Carol J Weber.
Antimicrobial resistance is a natural biological phenomenon, but human misuse and neglect have accelerated the rate at which resistance develops and spreads. Through overuse of antimicrobials in developed nations, and misuse and underuse of them in developing nations, drug resistance has turned into a significant global health problem.
So far, the current risk to people in the United States from the H5N1 bird flu outbreak in Asia is low (CDC, 2005a). The strain of H5N1 virus found in Asia has not been found in the United States; and as of November 2005, there have been no human cases of H5N1 flu reported in the United States. Travel to countries in Asia has not been restricted, but travelers are advised to avoid all direct contact with poultry, poultry farms, animals in live food markets, and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals (CDC, 2005a). Meanwhile, medical and public health personnel are watching closely and preparedness plans are under way to respond to the threat of an avian influenza pandemic.
While previous pandemics have taken the world by surprise, the present situation has given the world advanced warning and a rare opportunity to prepare for the next pandemic. WHO urges all countries to take action now to assess their level of preparedness, identify priority needs, and develop a national influenza preparedness plan. If containing or delaying the spread of a new human influenza strain is possible, it will take rapid, massive coordinated global and national actions. The success of these actions will depend on the preparations that have made in advance by each member of the international community.
While previous pandemics have taken the world by surprise, the present situation has given the world advanced warning and a rare opportunity to prepare for the next pandemic. WHO urges all countries to take action now to assess their level of preparedness, identify priority needs, and develop a national influenza preparedness plan. If containing or delaying the spread of a new human influenza strain is possible, it will take rapid, massive coordinated global and national actions. The success of these actions will depend on the preparations made in advance by each member of the international community.
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WHO experts believe that antimicrobial resistance is potentially containable, but the window of opportunity to control and eventually eliminate the most dangerous infectious diseases is closing. If we miss our opportunity, it may become very difficult and expensive--and in some cases impossible--to treat infectious diseases. WHO's global strategy to contain antimicrobial resistance requires a massive effort and an alliance among countries, governments, international organizations, drug manufacturers, and private and public health care sectors. If infectious diseases are fought wisely and widely by the international community, drug resistance can be controlled and lives saved.
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Swimming is a popular exercise activity in the United States, but swimming pools and other recreational venues may serve as settings for infectious disease transmission. Adopting healthy swimming habits can protect you and your family and prevent disease transmission for everyone.
As an international traveler, contact your health care provider at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure to obtain needed vaccinations and prophylactic medications. Be aware of the occurrence of any disease outbreaks in the countries you are visiting. While traveling, don't forget that one of the most important practices in preventing illness from infections is handwashing. Wash your hands carefully and frequently with soap and water, and if soap and water are not available use an alcohol-based hand rub. Be a responsible traveler by becoming informed about health risks and what to do to avoid them before you travel.
Owning and caring for a pet should be an enjoyable experience. Be a responsible pet owner and keep your pet healthy. By keeping your pet healthy and following a few simple preventive measures, you can protect you and your family against zoonotic diseases.
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Knowledge and preparation are the best defense against a biological attack. By understanding the epidemiology of biological warfare agents and diseases, strategies can be planned to decrease the morbidity and mortality associated with them. There is an urgent need for developing rapid diagnostic tests, effective vaccines, and drug therapy to defend against biological weapon attacks. The CDC, along with other agencies and partners, are defining how the public health system is to prepare for and respond to public health threats posed by terrorism.
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