Swine Flu One Step Closer to Pandemic

from WebMD — a health information Web site for patients
Miranda Hitti

April 29, 2009 — Swine flu has pushed the World Health Organization to raise its pandemic alert level to phase 5, which means that a pandemic is imminent.
It's the second time in a week that the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised its pandemic alert level, which ranges from phase 1 (low risk of a pandemic) to phase 6 (a full-blown pandemic is under way).
"The biggest question is, how severe will the pandemic be?" WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said today in a news conference in Geneva. "We do not have all the answers right now, but we will get them."
Chan said the swine flu situation is changing rapidly and the swine flu virus is still "poorly understood."
Chan called on all governments around the world to "immediately activate their pandemic preparedness plan," noting that each country is free to make its own pandemic plans -- and that many countries have been working on pandemic preparedness for years, thanks to concerns about bird flu ( avian flu). "The world is better prepared for an influenza pandemic than at any time in history."
Earlier today, CDC Acting Director Richard Besser, MD, said that the U.S. is at a "pre-pandemic" level and that it matters less what the situation is called than what's being done about it, and that the U.S. is taking "aggressive" action to limit swine flu's impact on human health.

WHO Pandemic Levels
Here is a quick look at the WHO's pandemic alert phases:
Phase 1: A virus in animals has caused no known infections in humans.
Phase 2: An animal flu virus has caused infection in humans.
Phase 3: Sporadic cases or small clusters of disease occur in humans. Human-to-human transmission, if any, is insufficient to cause community-level outbreaks.
Phase 4: The risk for a pandemic is greatly increased but not certain. The disease-causing virus is able to cause community-level outbreaks.
Phase 5: Still not a pandemic, but spread of disease between humans is occurring in more than one country of one WHO region.
Phase 6: This is the pandemic level. Community-level outbreaks are in at least one additional country in a different WHO region from phase 5. A global pandemic is under way.
Note that all of those phases are about how the virus is (or isn't) spreading -- they're not about the severity of the disease.

91 Cases in U.S.
At least 91 people in 10 U.S. states have swine flu, and there has been one death of a swine flu patient in the U.S., according to the CDC.
The patient who died was a 22-month-old boy from Mexico who died at a hospital in the Houston area. He had several underlying health problems, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Here is the CDC's latest tally of lab-confirmed swine flu cases:
New York: 51 cases
Texas: 16 cases
California: 14 cases
Kansas: 2 cases
Massachusetts: 2 cases
Michigan: 2 cases
Arizona: 1 case
Indiana: 1 case
Nevada: 1 case
Ohio: 1 case
But the situation is changing so quickly that "these numbers are almost out of date by the time I say them," Besser said today at a press conference.
Besser noted that health officials expect to see a "spectrum" of disease severity in the U.S. "Unfortunately, I anticipate that we will see more deaths."

Swine Flu Numbers Changing Constantly
The CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) only report lab-confirmed cases -- not probable or suspected cases -- and they only do it once a day. So there may be a lag time before cases confirmed at the state or local level make it into the official tally.
The WHO today reported 114 lab-confirmed swine flu cases worldwide, but that figure is based on yesterday's CDC numbers and doesn't include three cases reported in Germany, one in Austria, and additional cases in New Zealand.
"It is clear that the virus is spreading; we don't see any evidence that it's slowing," Keiji Fukuda, MD, the WHO's assistant director-general for health security and environment, said at a news conference in Geneva earlier today.


Swine Flu Vaccine Work Under Way
Scientists are already working on creating a vaccine against the new swine flu virus.
"We're in full gear; the process is more speedy than [it's] ever been before, " Kathleen Sebelius, the new Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), said today at a joint news conference with the HHS, CDC, FDA, and the National Institutes of Health.
A swine flu vaccine may be created by early fall, but that doesn't mean it will be ready for distribution by then, health officials noted at the news conference.
Developing a vaccine means conducting clinical trials to see if the vaccine is safe, if it works, and what dose is needed, Anthony Fauci, MD, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said at the news conference.
Fauci predicted that clinical trials of a vaccine against the new flu virus -- which he calls the H1N1 virus -- will "probably begin within a couple of months" and take several months.

'Serious Virus'
During today's joint news conference, a reporter asked why officials are so concerned about the new flu virus, given the fact that normal seasonal flu kills an average of 36,000 people in the U.S. during a typical flu season.
The reason is that it's a new, unpredictable virus that "has pandemic potential," Fauci replied. "It really is something different."
"This is a serious virus, this is a serious outbreak," Besser agreed.
"You don't know if it's going to fizzle out in a couple weeks or become more or less virulent or severe in the diseases it causes," Besser said. "If we could see into the future, that would be wonderful. But that's not the case. That's why we're being aggressive."


SOURCES:
Margaret Chan, director-general, World Health Organization.
WebMD Health News: "CDC Confirms First U.S. Swine Flu Death."
Richard Besser, MD, acting director, CDC.
Keiji Fukuda, MD, assistant director-general, health security and environment, World Health Organization.
Kathleen Sebelius, secretary, Department of Health and Human Services.
Anthony Fauci, MD, director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

babywearing : Maya RS




Fabric- woven: Light, airy. Stripes... don't think its my style though

Rings- aluminium: Chic looking. Easy to thread coz it's large rings

Fabric+rings: Wonderful, it doesn't slip!!!!

She has slept in it, went shopping peacefully, slept while mommy ate, went to pasar malam to buy dinner. Quite an adventure for Maya and Arianna.

This is not my new fluffy :p Just a temp trade with Shida. I wonder how is she using the Babyhawk while preggo?

at 15 months... her food evolved

Penne Pomodoro
Spiral Pomodoro
Tomato Rice
Sole with Mix Veg
Creamy Beef Spiral
Chicken Tomato Soup
...added penne pasta
Spaghetti Salad
Nasi Ayam

Atok's 65th Birthday


Happy Birthday Bapak!
(makan story later, once I've figured out my photo management ie which PC, which software *pening pening)

updated restaurant list:

Western:
  • Wendy's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Manhattan Fish Market
  • Starbucks
  • Yogi Tree
  • Delicious
  • Vivo
  • Italiannies
  • Pasta Mania
  • New York New York
  • Tony Roma
Japanese/Korean
  • Sakae Sushi
  • Senjyu
  • Yoshinoya
  • Sushi King
  • Korean BBQ Chicken
Icecream/yogurt:
  • New Zealand Natural
  • Gelatissimo
We noticed that we can't frequent an outlet more than 3 times... unless there's a 3 months hiatus. Gotta work hard in finding more eateries.

pink month... great babywearing month!

Bumps&Mums weekend in Bangsar Village. Babywearers unite!
Babywearing talk on April 4th by Jess Tang.


Shida (all the way from penang) was the main coordinator along with Nia@Nik. 
BW/BF/CD gathering in Sunway Kayangan 18th April (aiseh no pics with tuan rumah Nik)

me (my Angelpack SSC) & Ito (Ellaroo wrap rite?)
magic ring sling...Ariana down for her nap immediately in Maya RS (more reviews soon)

*been using pink to match Arianna's outfit. I think I'm getting her other colours, I'm using too much of that pink hijab I just realised.
*gosh! I look pale... makeup guru help. I think I'm (finally) aging ~sigh~

VOTE FOR ME



Vote4Me


But those nominated or not, are all supermommies!!
Ummisalsabila ke yg nominate I? Since u yg rajin kat chatbox I tu :D Whoever who nominated me, thank you very much, I'm flattered. 
So get clicking people.

when hubby babywears...

DH wearing sleeping baby in Beco Butterfly
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...... mommy goes for reflexology. She sleeps for about an hour, so I had just enough time. I had twice, thrice went for reflexology wearing her (she was sleeping), so maybe next time if DH wears her, I can go for body massage instead??

babywearing : Mei's Mei Tai in action

it's so my colour

attached hood
Pro:
  • it's a Mei Tai! A great 2 shouldered carrier
  • has a non detachable hood (like my Angelpack)
  • lightly padded at waist and shoulder strap (no padding at BH waist strap)
  • material suitable for our weather
Cons:
  • the strap material isn't very strong (but feels oh so soft and fluffy), don't think I can do 4-5 hours walk (unlike BH, Kozy)
  • because it's a mei tai, the long straps will touch the floor ifI were to tie in public - not  a good thing for OCD (obsessive compulsive) person like me
  • because of tying tying bit - not husband friendly. He must think it's a hassle / too feminine
~ not my new fluffy, tokey kasi pinjam :)
~ if I don't already have 2 MT, think this would be great - matches my wardrobe

cloth diapering : Gro Baby AI2

How does Gro Baby work?

What is the Gro Baby Diapering System?
Gro Baby is a modern, one-size diapering system. Its unique, waterproof shell and organic cotton soaker pad minimizes waste and cost. When the soaker pad is wet, simply replace with a fresh, dry one!

How does Gro Baby work?
Gro Baby is designed so that the outer shells may be used for multiple diaper changes. If the soaker pad is wet, simply snap in a fresh one and you are ready to go. If the shell is wet, allow it to air dry and use for the next diaper change. When your Gro Baby Shell is soiled or very saturated, start fresh with a new Gro Baby Shell.Most Gro Baby System users will find that using 2-4 Gro Baby Shells are enough per day, although newborn babies may need more.
How does the one-size feature on my Gro Baby work?
Gro Baby will fit MOST babies from 8-35 lbs. The Gro Baby Shell features three sets of rise snaps that adjust to fit your baby. Our unique one-size Organic Soaker Pad fits from 8-35 lbs as well.
Newborn/Small Infant Setting: Snap your Gro Baby Shell rise snaps on the lowest setting. Snap your soaker pad into the shell and simply flip the front of the soaker pad in towards baby. Fastened diaper on baby.
Infant Setting: Snap your Gro Baby Shell rise snaps on the middle setting. Snap your soaker pad into the shell. Tuck the front of your soaker pad down, while pulling the front panel up and fasten on baby.
Toddler Setting: Leave your Gro Baby Shell rise snaps unsnapped. Snap your soaker pad into the shell and fasten on baby.

How to care for your Gro Baby Diapering System?
First and foremost it is important to wash and dry your Organic Cotton Soaker Pads at least 3-5 times prior to use. They will not be fully absorbent for up to 10 washes. Laundry Day: You will find that your laundry loads will be a third of the size of your regular laundry loads!
Your Gro Baby Shell and Soaker Pads can be washed together on warm with ½ the recommend amount of detergent
A second rinse will leave your diaper squeaky clean
While your Gro Baby Shells can be tumbled dry, we HIGHLY recommend line drying your shells. They will dry in less than two hours and will stay nice longer
Gro Baby Organic Soaker Pads can be tumbled dried
This may seem obvious but, whiteners, bleach, vinegar, enzyme cleaners and fabric softeners are not your diaper’s friends and will void all warranties.

How to avoid leaks with your Gro Baby System?
First and foremost your Gro Baby Soaker Pads must be washed and dried on hot 3-5 times prior to use. Keep in mind that they will NOT reach their maximum absorbency for up to 10 washes.
Gro Baby’s Organic Cotton Soaker Pads while very absorbent do not contain the SAP (super absorbent polymer) gels that make disposable diapers hold ridiculous amounts of liquid. This means you should plan on changing baby every two hours.
For naps, nights, car trips and older babies we highly recommend adding a Gro Baby Booster to increase absorbency without adding much bulk.
Refrain from using petroleum based diaper balms as this coat your Organic Cotton Soaker Pads affecting their ability to absorb liquid. A good alternative is Magic Stick.


*Just a note to myself on how to care for Arianna's new CD. DH offered to go over to Tiny Tapir's new shop in Ampang Park! Was quite reluctant to go at first, thinking of my sleeping baby (snugly in MT). Of course he insisted we go anyway. I have a great hubby or what?
*Hanz, u bought the purple/blackberry one? Seriously??

weaning to solids : 11-12 months : RECIPE LIST

This was the time I had to start blogging because I kept making up new dishes to perk up Arianna's interest. She gets bored with the same food.

I started blogging in Vox (you can reach it by clicking ARCHIVES top right). The pictures and words are there. I only managed to import the text (without the pics) over to Blogspot.

These are her food, cooked to her tastebud:
When did I move over to Blogspot? It was in February I think, but I've moved all my posts with pictures January onwards. Since I've now compiled the list for easy clicking (for myself, for my readers, for my followers)... I think I should edit the links... ada gambar baru best kan?

big people food

Oh no, this blog is lacking in food entries lately... with my enthusiasm of babywearing and cloth diapering entries.

Arianna has quite a number of recipes from November-February. You can click on ARCHIVES and it will direct you to my Vox blog (which has now become mommy's retreat).

I've been cooking her (same old same old) recipes, but she's mainly on big people food. She eats at the table with us, and the whole family has adapted to no-salt-please cooking. She does get exposure to outside food too:
  • Wendy's
  • McDonald's (it's us actually, she only had pitta while we gulped down our food)
  • Pizza Hut
  • Manhattan Fish Market
  • Delicious
  • Starbucks
  • Yogi Tree
  • Vivo
  • Italiannies
  • Sakae Sushi
  • Senjyu
  • Yoshinoya
  • Sushi King
  • New Zealand Natural
  • Gelatissimo
Where else? Time for bed... brain's slowing down. 
*mental note : to blog March / April food.

pimping your RS



Nylon rings doesn't work with silk...too slippery. There are other avid babywearers can nod their head in unison.
FINALLY I unpicked the shoulder and send it for pimping@repair@redo.
I can't wait to get it back!!

(If I'm patient, I'll wait for 2 weeks till I see u next, Farid, if not cam biasa Mr. Azmin jadi mr. posto)
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tagged!

Tagged by Zoora (fellow babywearing mommy)

1. Go to your photos folder in your computer.
2. Go to the 6th folder of photos.
3. Go to the 6th picture in that folder.
4. Put the picture on your blog and description of it.
5. Invite six friends to join the challenge.
6. Link them in your blog and let them know they have been challenged.
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It's a picture grilled fish (think it was sole fish). LO sends on me on never ending quest of cooking :) She liked it, for a while.
*which reminds me to do some cooking entries*

Tagging:
  1. Hanz (since I just met u guys)
  2. Herni   "
  3. Millie(hoping for some juicy pics)
  4. Farid
  5. Elly
  6. Darina (u can do it on FB)

Happy 16 months old

Time flies....
16 months of exclusive / fully BF. 
Happily BW my kid - although having 8 carrier for 1 baby? :p

She's sleeping still at 7am, and we still co sleep.
She's probably 11kgs now.
She doesn't walk, she runs.
Throws tantrums if we don't understand her babbles.

Haven't fully mastered spoons, but fork - quite okay.
Part time CD, with poopoo potty trained.
Have difficulties in brushing her 6 teeth... when mom says brush your teeth, she brushes mine instead. Trying out a new tool now.

Eating like an adult...thus not many new recipes. 
We are cutting out the salt (yay for healthier living)

FROM BABYCENTER.COM      
 • Turns the pages of a book
• Has 
temper tantrums when frustrated
• Becomes attached to a soft toy or other object                                         
 • Discovers the joy of  climbing
• Stacks three blocks
• Uses 
spoon or fork
• Learns the correct way to use common objects (e.g., the telephone)                            
• Gets finicky about food
Switches from two naps to one

In my humble opinion as a mom and doctor, the milestone charts are just as a guide. Kids grow at their own pace. *dulu dulu babies mana buka mata, lift their head within the first week, now babies are stronger, probably due to stimulation and good nutrition*

I'm just concerned about the one milestone I highlighted in RED.
She sleep 8-10 hours at night, and 2-3 hours during her 2 naps. 
Less sleep = cranky toddler?

babywearing : Soft Structured Carrier : Beco vs AP

Can't see the butterfly in this picture...but it's there
Well thought design - curved straps

You've got to touch it to understand what I meant by sturdy vs soft padding. These 2 are keepers. Of course I had thoughts of getting a Beco 4th Gen, but then again, I wouldn't let go any of these 2. I think I'm having a problem with Beco, it seems that the body is short in relation to daughter's torso. Uh oh, if she's getting taller... I wonder if 
  • SSC : Angelpack LX
  • MT : Toddlerhawk
those will come into the picture later *LOL*.
I think I'll stop at 8.

2 ring slings
2 pouches
2 mei tais
2 SSCs

Yay, I've done my babywearing posts... just in time for tomorrow's event. Check out Bumps & Mums Weekend in Bangsar Village II.

Both Bangsar Village 1&2 are stroller friendly.
The nursing room is located near the sky bridge in BV 1 (this is not a paid post, so I have no info to describe exactly where it is... always ask the info desk).
If all is well, we're going for the BW slot 2.30-3.30pm.

babywearing : Soft Structured Carrier

Second SSC : Angelpack
Front carry preferable if she's sleeping
But if she falls asleep during back carry, just use the attached hood

Her size 4 1/2 Cl*rks shoes

Pro:
  • lightweight SSC, can be folded and stuffed into the diaper bag
  • attached hood
  • more suitable for narrow shouldered ladies
Cons:
  • paddings are soft, thus not as supportive for long hours
  • shoulder straps are not attached, can be misplaced easily
  • DH just doesn't like it because of reason 1 (too soft and not as sturdy)
I have 2 SSC, but this time, I could say : 1 for me, and 1 for you (my hubby).
I love, love, love SSC! We've abandoned the stroller ever since!!

babywearing : Soft Structured Carrier (SSC)

First SSC : Beco Butterfly
Front carry.
Ito, Elly, myself and Nita - BW talk in Tiny Tapir@Damai Bungalow

Pro:
  • mommy / daddy friendly in terms of pattern
  • thick padding, very good for long carrying period
  • easy to move from front to back carry and vice versa
Cons:
  • the butterfly design makes it more difficult to put the child in, compared to Beco 4th Gen
  • may not suit slimmer / narrow shouldered person
  • bulky, doesn't fit into slim diaper bags

babywearing : Mei Tai : BH vs Mei's




Apparently I do have better pics. Taken in November 2008, when I first got the BH. Used it for a month, then it became obsolete... why? Coz I got myself an SSC- soft structured carrier.

Why did I get the BH in the first place? *shaking my head*

babywearing : Mei Tai

This is an old pic, a day before her first birthday and we were out shopping. She had a traumatic day... first ever nebulisation due to bronchiolitis. Thought we might cheer her up, by looking at Christmas deco, toys for her upcoming birthday. She ended up sleeping in the Babyhawk. Love the stiff headrest.

note: I prefer front carry if she's sleeping so that I can ensure her head doesn't flop. But since she was already asleep, we had to make sure her head is okay, airway clear. I've developed eyes behind my head to check up on her... nah, just keep checking out at the mirror, or DH's job.
I only have 2 mei tai(DH's gonna read and say ONLY 2?).
Love them both. 
(LO's sleeping, so I did some camwhoring...of course la I'm not a professional photographer)
Mei's tester collection

Babyhawk on top of Mei's

Anyone wants to teach me how to fold MT compactly? BH, I still haven't folded especially at the stiff headrest part (just like how we take care of 'awning' Munawwarah :p)