Be prepared to test for #COVID19 anytime and have a plan to keep employees and customers safe

Note: This post contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.

Being prepared and having a plan to keep staff and customers safe during this health emergency is vital to any company’s (and community’s) long-term success.

A recent survey shows an overwhelming 82% of employees and 77% of customers would feel more comfortable if they knew employees were being tested for the COVID virus.

Now businesses, schools, churches, agencies, groups and families can get an affordable FDA Authorized test to help determine whether someone has been exposed to the virus within the past 4 to 24 days.

This rapid test reliably identifies IgG and IgM antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2 in a blood sample drawn with a finger prick in 11 to 15 minutes with an online clinician.

ACT’s rapid test kits are currently 70% off so is less than $15 each (sold in groups of 3 kits for $44.55) … plus each kit includes a free month of Telemedicine services from Health Alliance Network.

And COVID COVERED Window Stickers are now included with every box of 25 Kits order so employees and customers feel reassured about safely returning to your business with added oversight of testing by HAN’s clinical assistants.

ACT also has an Affiliate Program so groups, volunteers and individuals can earn over 13% of kit orders (and get commissions on 4 levels) and it’s FREE to join!

Proceeds benefit the U.S. First Responders Association

FEMA releases $100 million in EMPG-S funding for ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (and our customizable preparedness book qualifies under this grant and many others)

On 14-Apr-2020 DHS and FEMA announced a funding notice for an additional $100 million in supplemental Emergency Management Performance Grant Program funds.

The EMPG-S money is available to all 50 states and 6 territories as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and FEMA will award funding to support COVID-19 preparedness and response; development of tools and strategies for prevention, preparedness, and response; and ongoing communication and coordination among federal, State, local, tribal, and territorial partners throughout the response.

A customizable tool that qualifies under EMPG (and other grants) is our 266-page preparedness and first aid manual (and PDF ebook) that can be customized with extra pages to include local plans, COVID-19 specific data and messaging or any other information agencies, businesses, schools and others want included for recipients.

For over 20 years many local, state and federal agencies and nonprofits have used our customizable book for communities since it qualifies as public education under most grants and provides tremendous in-kind and community match. Plus proceeds benefit the U.S. First Responders Association.

Fedhealth is a sole source, small business registered on GSA’s SAM database, the Ariba Supplier Network and many state and local procurement systems, and we can provide sole source or other documentation needed for work plans, to commit funds, straddle budgets, etc.

Learn more about our customizable preparedness and first aid book or ebook, and download a free 59-page PDF portion of it (that includes some data about coronaviruses and other infectious diseases, family plans, kits, disaster topics and more) at www.fedhealth.net.

And call Fedhealth at 520.907.2153 or email info@fedhealth.net if we can assist with your preparedness and communications needs for your employees, students, customers and communities.

(We’ve extended our hours and working 7 days a week during this outbreak.)

Some things YOU can do to stop the spread of flu, coronaviruses, staph and other infectious diseases

As we wrote last month, there are some things people can do to help reduce infectious diseases like flu, coronaviruses and other cooties in your home and work environments.

How infectious diseases spread…

Most infectious diseases are spread by close person-to-person contact primarily by touching people or things contaminated with bodily fluids (like pee, poop, sweat, droplets from sneezing, etc) — then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Other diseases (like MRSA) can be spread by sharing personal items like towels or razors or by medical staff using contaminated items like stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, clipboards or charts, and pens. Keep in mind some bacteria or viruses can survive on objects for days, weeks or months.

Some things YOU can do to reduce the spread of germs

Since Bill is very immunocompromised, we are again sharing some things I / we do constantly to keep germs at bay with links to some of our blog posts.

• Carry disinfecting wipes in your vehicles and backpacks, and put some in a baggie before you go out in public to wipe down surfaces of things you have to touch and/or to wipe your hands. (Keep in mind most wipes use ammonia, but there are some industrial wipes that use bleach instead. But never mix ammonia and bleach!)

• Keep a box of cheap plastic disposable gloves in your vehicles so you can put on a pair when pumping gas or using ATMs or even shopping.

• Wipe down everything that comes into your home with disinfecting wipes (or a rag dipped in water and bleach solution) including groceries or other items you buy at stores or something that is delivered to your door via ground or postal service.

• Before you set your purse, backpack or briefcase on your kitchen table or countertop …think about all the places you put those things during the day! Either have a special place for these items in your home or office … or be meticulous about wiping them down before putting them on furniture, counters, carpet, desktops, etc. Also consider getting portable purse hooks to keep it off the floor of restaurants, public restrooms, etc.

• Did you know cellphones carry 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats..?! Think about all the places you use and place your phone every day. Then remember … germs thrive in warm environments and smartphones generate heat — plus your hands, face, mouth and body heat (if you carry your phone in a pocket) all add to the cootie cocktail so learn how to clean your phone.

• Consider getting a UV disinfectant wand because its light rays kill up to 99.9% of germs and comes in handy for all types of handheld devices, ear buds, keyboards, remotes and many other gadgets and household items where cooties can thrive.

• Fist bump rather than shaking hands — or just tell people you don’t shake hands. And if you do shake someone’s hand don’t touch your face (esp. eyes or mouth) before you are able to wash your hands.

• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. An easy way to mark the time is to hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice while scrubbing. If in a public bathroom, use paper towels to turn off water and to open the door when leaving.

• When should you wash your hands?
  • Before, during, and after preparing food
  • Before eating food
  • Before and after caring for someone who is sick
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound
  • After using the toilet
  • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
  • After touching an animal or animal waste
  • After handling pet food or pet treats
  • After touching garbage
• When you can’t wash hands while out in public, use a hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol in it) or disinfectant wipes on hands (and keys, glasses, door handles, steering wheel, etc.) to reduce the spread of germs. But keep in mind sanitizers don’t work against some bugs so it’s best to wash up. Also people with celiac disease (like Bill) can’t do alcohol sanitizers so find other options like disinfecting wipes or gluten-free sanitizers.
• Tell healthcare workers and visitors to wash their hands before they touch you or your stuff — don’t be timid!
• If you have a fever, stay home! And wait at least 24 hours after fever breaks before you return to work or school.
• Use antibiotics or antiviral meds only when absolutely necessary. Consider boosting your immune system to help fight infections.
• Sick people should cover mouth and nose with tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, wash hands often, and wear a face mask around others so you don’t spread your germs to others.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered until healed.
• Clean counters, doorknobs, fixtures, phones, remotes, nurse call buttons, linens, phones, etc. often with a bleach solution ~ esp. if in a nursing home or hospital room.
• Disinfect things many people at work and school use like microwave buttons, spigots on water coolers, keyboards, calculators, phones, pens, staplers, etc. with a UV wand or bleach solution often or at least carry around some disinfecting wipes so you can clean items before use.
• Don’t share silverware, razors, clothing, towels, or bedding and wash objects with soap and hot water.
• Follow doctor’s instructions and limit activities outside home until fever and symptoms have gone away.

For more information about infectious diseases, visit…

Center for Disease Control

Flu.gov

National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases

WHO Infectious Diseases

Medical Reserve Corps volunteers strengthen America’s public health

Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a national network of volunteers, organized locally to improve the health and safety of their communities.

The MRC network currently comprises over 180,000 volunteers in 830+ units located throughout the United States and its territories.

MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize medical and non-medical volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies and promote healthy living throughout the year. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources.

About the Medical Reserve Corps

After the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, many Americans asked, “What can I do to help?” Public health professionals were among those who wanted to volunteer their services, but many were not able to find a way to do so. While these professionals had applicable skills sets, they could not be deployed. This was because they were not identified, credentialed or trained in advance. So, the Medical Reserve Corps was created to build a group of people who can assist existing local public health in the event of a true public health emergency or disaster.

MRC was originally a partner program with Citizen Corps and resided under HHS’ Office of the Surgeon General. In 2015 the MRC was welcomed into HHS’ Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Office of Emergency Management family. MRC also works closely with the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) to enhance MRC units’ ability to meet local, state, and national needs through collaboration, coordination, and capacity-building activities.

MRC units engage volunteers to strengthen public health, improve emergency response capabilities, and build community resiliency. They prepare for and respond to natural disasters, such as wildfires, hurricanes, tornados, blizzards, and floods, as well as other emergencies affecting public health, such as disease outbreaks. They frequently contribute to community health activities that promote healthy habits.

Volunteers include medical and public health professionals such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, and epidemiologists. Many community members with non-medical backgrounds—interpreters, chaplains, office workers, legal advisors, and others—can fill other key support positions.

Some examples of activities that MRC volunteers participate in and support include:

• Emergency Preparedness and Response Trainings
• Mass Dispensing Efforts
• Emergency Sheltering
• Vaccination Clinics
• Responder Rehab
• Health Education and Promotion
• Disaster Medical Support
• Outreach to Underserved Community Members
• Medical Facility Surge Capacity
• First Aid During Large Public Gatherings
• Engaging Youth in Public Health Activities
• Planning, Logistical & Administrative Support
• Health Screenings
• Veterinary Support and Pet Preparedness
• and more!

Learn how to volunteer or partner with your local Medical Reserve Corps and visit the MRC site to learn more about this great organization.

MRC Network Well Check Webinars

MRC Network Well Check interactive webinars provide MRC unit leaders and State Coordinators with information on a wide variety of topics, largely determined by members’ interests and needs. Through these ongoing wellness check-ups of the MRC network, members will be provided a platform to connect, share, and learn with your peers and leadership, plus some members will also be asked to serve as presenters.

Webinars are typically held on the first Tuesday of each month at 2p ET and run about 60 minutes long primarily focusing on a specified topic. Many include a Q & A period and highlights from the field, as well.

Many MRC units use customized It’s A Disaster books

Since Medical Reserve Corps’ creation in 2002 many Health Departments and MRCs (+ EMs, CERTs, etc.) have purchased our 266-page preparedness and first aid manuals customized both in the print process and using standard red books with stickers for volunteers, events and local communities.

Our IT’S A DISASTER! bulk price is only $4.50 U.S. each delivered (70% off list on 10 or more copies) … and we can customize them for free to include data about your MRC unit, how to become a volunteer, public health information and more. And our book qualifies as community education on most grants providing about a $4-to-$1 return that can be used on matching grant programs.

Download a free portion of our book in PDF and learn how to order paperbacks (or ebooks) at www.fedhealth.net or call 520.907.2153.

Are you a germaphobe? (Tips to help combat the spread of Infectious Diseases)

Obviously there is angst and concern about the new coronavirus (COVID-19) spreading across the globe, but realize there are many infectious disease outbreaks that impact us each and every year that don’t get much coverage.

For example, here are some infectious disease numbers…

• Tuberculosis caused over 500 deaths out of the 9,025 TB cases in the U.S. in 2018 per CDC … and globally there were 1.2 million TB deaths out of the 10 million new cases worldwide in 2018 per WHO.
• COVID-19 has caused 33,106 deaths globally out of 693,282 cases per WHO as of 30-Mar-2020. (Out of the global stats, the U.S. reports 2,112 fatalities and 122,652 confirmed cases as of 30-Mar-2020.)
• Staph caused an estimated 20,000 deaths in the U.S. out of 119,000 cases in 2017 per CDC with less than half the deaths linked to drug-resistant MRSA.
• Clostridium difficile or C. diff sickens almost half a million Americans a year killing over 29,000 of them within 30 days of diagnosis per InfectionControlToday.com.
• Seasonal flu killed between 12,000 and 61,000 Americans annually over the past decade according to CDC … and WHO estimates there are between 290,000 to 650,000 flu deaths worldwide annually.

Bottom line, these are just some examples of infectious diseases that can affect people year-round, and other diseases are being introduced (and re-introduced) into countries through air travel, border crossers, contaminated surfaces and more.

How infectious diseases spread…

Most infectious diseases are spread by close person-to-person contact primarily by touching people or things contaminated with bodily fluids (like pee, poop, sweat, droplets from sneezing, etc) — then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Other diseases (like MRSA) can be spread by sharing personal items like towels or razors or by medical staff using contaminated items like stethoscopes, blood pressure cuffs, clipboards or charts, and pens. Keep in mind some bacteria or viruses can survive on objects for days, weeks or months.

Immunocompromised = germaphobe

Many of you may remember Bill has been battling major health issues for well over a decade (including leukemia, T-cell disease, etc.) and, whenever a family member is immunocompromised, you become a major germaphobe.

Before we list the typical things people can do to reduce infectious diseases, we wanted to mention some things I / we do constantly to keep germs at bay with links to some of our blog posts.

• Carry disinfecting wipes in your vehicles and backpacks, and put some in a baggie before you go out in public to wipe down surfaces of things you have to touch and/or to wipe your hands. (Keep in mind most wipes use ammonia, but there are some industrial wipes that use bleach instead. But never, ever mix ammonia and bleach!)
• Wipe down everything that comes into your home with disinfecting wipes (or a rag dipped in water and bleach solution) including groceries or items you bought at the store or something that is delivered to your door via ground or postal service. And if you are concerned about household chemicals, we’ve posted some safety tips and links on making non-toxic cleaners on our blog.
• Leave your shoes at the door when you get home so you don’t track pollen, pesticides and other crap onto floors and carpets.

• Before you set your purse, backpack or briefcase on your kitchen table or countertop …think about all the places you put those things during the day! Either have a special place for these items or be meticulous about wiping them down before putting them on furniture, counters, carpet, etc.

• Did you know cellphones carry 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats..?! Think about all the places you use and place your phone every day. Then remember … germs thrive in warm environments and smartphones generate heat — plus your hands, face, mouth and body heat (if you carry your phone in a pocket) all add to the cootie cocktail so learn how to clean your phone.
• Consider getting a UV disinfectant wand because its light rays kill up to 99.9% of germs and comes in handy for all types of handheld devices, ear buds, keyboards, remotes and many other gadgets and household items where cooties can thrive.
• Keep a box of cheap plastic disposable gloves in your vehicles so you can put on a pair when pumping gas.
• Fist bump rather than shaking hands — or just tell people you don’t shake hands. And if you do shake someone’s hand don’t touch your face (esp. eyes or mouth) before you are able to wash your hands.

What to do to reduce the spread of infectious diseases…

• Wash hands often using soap and water or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol in it) to reduce the spread of germs. But keep in mind sanitizers don’t work against some bugs so it’s best to wash up. Also people with celiac disease (like Bill) can’t do alcohol sanitizers so find other options like disinfecting wipes or gluten-free sanitizers.
• The following hand washing chart and tips appeared in a custom book we printed for LaSalle County Emergency Management Agency’s Medical Reserve Corps and, although most of this is common sense, we wanted to share their tips and remind people to hum “Happy Birthday” in your head twice while scrubbing. Another tip when using a public washroom is… use the paper towels you dried your hands with to turn off water and to open the door when leaving.

• When should you wash your hands?
  • Before, during, and after preparing food
  • Before eating food
  • Before and after caring for someone who is sick
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound
  • After using the toilet
  • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
  • After touching an animal or animal waste
  • After handling pet food or pet treats
  • After touching garbage
• Tell healthcare workers and visitors to wash their hands before they touch you or your stuff — don’t be timid!
• If you have a fever, stay home! And wait 24 hours after fever breaks before you return to work or school.
• Use antibiotics only when absolutely necessary. Consider boosting your immune system to help fight infections.
• Sick people should cover mouth and nose with tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, wash hands often, and wear a face mask around others (if very ill).
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered until healed.
• Clean counters, doorknobs, fixtures, phones, remotes, nurse call buttons, linens, phones, etc. often with a bleach solution ~ esp. if in a nursing home or hospital room.
• Disinfect things many people at work and school use like microwave buttons, spigots on water coolers, keyboards, calculators, phones, pens, staplers, etc. with a UV wand or bleach solution often or at least carry around some disinfecting wipes so you can clean items before use.
• Don’t share silverware, razors, clothing, towels, or bedding and wash objects with soap and hot water.
• Follow doctor’s instructions and limit activities outside home until fever and symptoms have gone away.

For more information about infectious diseases, visit…

Center for Disease Control

Flu.gov

National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases

WHO Infectious Diseases

What the U.S. is doing about the new coronavirus and some things YOU can do

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can infect birds and mammals, including humans, and is traditionally associated with the common mild cold in people.

Sometimes coronaviruses that infect animals, including camels, bats, cattle, cats and snakes, can evolve and make people sick then become a new human coronavirus.

Some examples of animal coronaviruses that crossed over and spread person-to-person are the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and now the new 2019-nCoV (a.k.a. COVID-19.)

As of 17-Feb-2020, authorities in China say the death toll from COVID-19 is over 1,700 (well surpassing the deadly 2003 SARS outbreak), with most deaths occurring in the Chinese province of Hubei (esp. Wuhan city) where the coronavirus was first discovered.

Globally there are (now) about 693,282 confirmed cases of the virus so COVID-19 (formerly 2019-nCoV) has over a 4% mortality rate as of 30-Mar-2020 globally (and about 2% in the U.S. as of 30-Mar). And this outbreak is far from over as millions of Chinese returned to work after the extended Lunar New Year break ended. But realize the Spanish flu of 1918, which was the last true global pandemic, had a “case fatality rate” or CFR of 2.5%, and it killed an estimated 50 – 60 million people.

The fatality rates for MERS was about 35% and SARS was around 14-15% which is why those coronaviruses were very concerning, but countries were able to contain things in both cases so thankfully neither became a pandemic.

Interestingly Live Science says one group has escaped with minimal damage so far: children. Other coronaviruses, including SARS and MERS, also showed this pattern. Currently the median age of 2019-nCoV patients is between 49 and 56 years old, according to a recent JAMA article.

Symptoms and Complications

COVID-19 infection can range from mild, with no symptoms or minor symptoms, to severe or even deadly. The symptoms usually start between 2 to 14+ days after you get infected and can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Shortness of breath or breathing difficulties

It can also cause pneumonia and progress to multiple organ failure or death in some severe cases.

There is a test for 2019-nCoV [COVID-19], but there’s no vaccine or specific treatment yet other than medical care to help relieve symptoms, although Gilead’s experimental drug called remdesivir is being trialed in some cases.

As Dr. Sircus reports, some patients who at first appeared mildly or moderately ill then took a turn for the worse several days or even a week into their illness. The median time from their first symptoms to when they became short of breath was 5 days; to hospitalization, 7 days; and to severe breathing trouble, 8 days. Experts say that pattern means patients must be carefully monitored, and it is not safe to assume that someone who seems to be doing well early on is out of the woods. But, as Dr. Sircus says, “remember at least 95 percent of people survive it! Cancer patients should be so lucky.”

At a time when many are rightly concerned about coronavirus — of which there are just a handful of cases in the U.S. so far — the CDC is also warning Americans not to drop their guard about influenza, which has caused at least 19 million illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 10,000 deaths so far this season.

What is being done

On Jan. 30, the World Health Organization declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern about the current epidemic of 2019-nCoV in mainland China. The following day, HHS Secretary Alex Azar declared 2019-nCoV a public health emergency domestically and ordered any U.S. citizens returning from China’s Hubei province to be quarantined for up to 2 weeks to provide proper medical care and health screening.

The immediate risk to the U.S. is currently low, and a presidential proclamation in place suspends entry of foreign nationals who have visited China within the past 14 days into America. The CDC has also put into place measures to detect this virus among those who are allowed entry into the U.S. who are entering the country within 14 days of having been in Hubei province or mainland China. 

All of these passengers are being directed to 1 of 11 U.S. airports where American citizens and exempted persons who have been in Hubei province will have an additional health assessment. They will be screened for fever, cough, difficulty breathing. 

• If symptomatic, American citizens and those who are exempt will be transferred for further medical evaluation. They will not be able to complete their itinerary and will be isolated for 14 days. 
• If asymptomatic, American citizens and those who are exempt will be subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine at or near that location. 

The list of 11 airports are…

• San Francisco International Airport, California;
• Los Angeles International Airport, California; 
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Georgia;
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Hawaii;
• O’Hare airport, Illinois;
• Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Michigan;
• Newark Liberty International Airport, New Jersey;
• JFK, New York;
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Texas;
• Washington Dulles International Airport, Virginia;
• and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Washington.

The Department of Defense has identified housing support at 4 bases for up to 1,000 people who may need to be quarantined upon arrival from overseas travel. Currently DOD is housing 198 people at March Air Reserve Base, California, but DOD is not involved with treatment or observation of those at the facility; Health and Human Services is doing that.

The 4 bases are…

• Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California;
• Travis Air Force Base, California;
• 168th Regiment, Regional Training Institute in Fort Carson, Colorado;
• and Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.

So what can people do?

First – don’t panic since Americans are still currently low risk and the focus right now is on travelers returning from places where this disease rate is growing.

And as mentioned above, it is still active flu season here in the U.S. which has sickened millions and killed 10,000 people so far. Use the below common sense tips from both CDC and our preparedness and first aid manual to help reduce the spread of germs and infectious diseases.  

CDC guidance

• If you haven’t already, consider getting a flu shot and take flu antivirals if prescribed.
• CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear facemask to protect themselves from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.
• Facemask should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19, in order to protect others from the risk of getting infected. The use of facemasks (and eye protection!) is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings at home or in a health care facility.
• Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. An easy way to mark the time is to hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice while scrubbing.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick or becoming sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue (not your hands) and throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Practical precautions

• Do not travel while sick.
• Seek medical care right away if you have both symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath and have either recently returned from China or have direct exposure to others diagnosed with a coronavirus.
• Before going to a doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and your symptoms.
• Cover mouth and nose with tissue or sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered until healed.
• Boost your immune system.
• Clean counters, doorknobs, fixtures, phones, remotes, nurse call buttons, linens, etc. often with a bleach solution.
• Don’t share silverware, razors, clothing, towels, or bedding and wash objects with soap and hot water.

Doing your part

• Everyone:
  • It’s currently flu season. Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs and infectious diseases as listed above.
• Health care professionals:
  • Maintain awareness of people with travel history to China as well as fever and respiratory symptoms.
  • When caring for a COVID-19 patient, follow recommended infection control procedures.
• People who may have COVID-19 infection:
  • Follow CDC guidance on how to reduce the risk of spreading your illness to others.
• Travelers:
  • Stay up to date with CDC’s travel health notices.

Additional Resources:

CDC: Coronavirus site

CDC: FAQs about 2019-nCoV/COVID-19

World Health Organization: Coronavirus site

Dr Sircus: Treatments for Viral Infection

The Survival Mom: The truth about disinfectants: Q&A with an expert

Sources:

CDC.gov

VA.gov

Defense.gov

AAFP.org

LiveScience.com

Medscape.com

MedlinePlus.gov

HomelandPrepNews.com

I married a mutant (recognizing and understanding MTHFR)

Bill and I rarely do personal posts here but, since we work with so many first responders across North America, we wanted to share this data in case it can help those dealing with toxins day in and day out.

As we explained in our May 2013 Celiac Disease post, Bill has been battling major health issues since 2000. (In hindsight he’s had issues his entire life.)

Over the past 19 years he’s beat leukemia / T-cell disease and a massive parasite infestation, moved out some major heavy metals and other toxins, and continues to heal his digestive tract due to Celiac Disease — among other things.

But he continued to struggle with extreme fatigue / lack of energy, pain, chemical sensitivities, migraines and other issues. He was still living on adrenaline, sugar and caffeine (as he has most of his life), so our naturopath, Dr. Garrett Smith, ran more tests in 2013 and discovered Bill had some strange imbalances of certain vitamins and minerals.

A key thing that stood out was Bill had high levels of folic acid (folate) and B-12 (among other things) meaning his body was not absorbing those properly causing him to be anemic at the cellular level. Dr. Smith suggested he get a “MTHFR Genotype Test” done at our local lab and the results explained why Bill has imbalances and trouble absorbing certain things — he’s got a defective (mutated) MTHFR gene. So basically … I married a mutant.

What the heck is the MTHFR gene?

At first glance MTHFR looks like an acronym for a cuss phrase. However, the MTHFR gene is responsible for making a functional MTHFR enzyme called “methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase”. According to NIH.gov, this enzyme plays a role in processing amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. MTHFR is important for a chemical reaction involving forms of the vitamin folate (also called vitamin B9). Specifically, this enzyme converts a molecule called 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate to a molecule called 5-methyltetrahydrofolate. This reaction is required for the multistep process that converts the amino acid homocysteine to another amino acid, methionine. The body uses methionine to make proteins, utilize antioxidants and other important compounds that support your immune system, cell regeneration and more per StopTheThyroidMadness.com.

In other words — as Dr. Ben Lynch explains — “MTHFR plays a key role in a process called methylation. If you have an MTHFR gene mutation, your methylation cycles may not be working optimally.

Methylation is the MAIN factor that affects epigenetics–the body’s response to our environment. Epigenetics determines which parts of the human blueprint, our genetic code, are turned off or on.

If the MTHFR gene is slightly altered (mutated), the MTHFR enzyme’s shape becomes distorted. Enzyme function depends a lot on shape. It is similar to the grooves on a key. If the grooves on a key are slightly different than the lock, the key may fit and turn the lock a little but it does not unlock the door. The genetic code of the MTHFR enzyme must be perfect in order for it to function properly.”

So what does all this mean?

As Wellness Mama writes — “Those with a defective MTHFR gene have an impaired ability to produce the MTHFR enzyme (estimates range from 20%-70% or more). This can make it more difficult to break down and eliminate not only synthetic folic acid but other substances like heavy metals.

Since folic acid can’t be converted into the usable form, it can build up in the body, which can raise levels of homocysteine. High homocysteine levels are associated with a higher risk in cardiovascular disease. This also affects the conversion to glutathione, which the body needs to remove waste and which is a potent antioxidant.”

Bottom line, a defective MTHFR enzyme may lead to a variety of health problems like autism, birth defects, anxiety, depression, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, stroke, chemical sensitivities, and more.

It also means if you take supplements there are certain methylated ones (e.g. folic, B-12, riboflavin, glutathione, etc.) that someone with a mutated MTHFR gene should take so the body can absorb them properly.

And since someone with a mutated MTHFR gene may need massive methylation due to toxicity or excess of some sort (be it chemicals, stress, anxiety, overwork, etc.), then their body demands extra methylfolate – and they cannot produce it, explains Dr. Ben.

Bill’s lab results show his MTHFR enzyme activity is 50%-60% of normal activity meaning his body only produces 40%-50% of what is needed to function normally ~ and, when stressed like he has been with so many health problems, he has no extra output or reserve enzymes thus causing tremendous fatigue, depression, pain, etc.

Balancing the cellular signaling is critical for not only helping my sweet mutant to continue to detox, but it will increase energy levels and help improve other health issues since his body will be able to absorb its needed nutrients. He’s still not quite 100% yet, but since he’s been taking specific methylated B vitamins, L-glutathione, a thyroid med, D-Ribose, etc., he’s getting more energy, his body core temperatures are almost normal, and he’s not having to supplement quite as much as before.

First Responders please pay attention to your bodies

As mentioned above, one main reason we are sharing this is because we work with responders across the country and some (or most) may want to look into MTHFR stuff further – esp. if you…

• Deal with toxic fumes or other chemicals on a regular basis;
• Live on adrenaline, caffeine or other stimulants;
• Have bouts of extreme tiredness or fatigue;
• Have low body temperatures at wake-up and/or have cold hands / feet;
• Struggle with migraines, depression, digestive issues, joint pain, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac problems, etc.

An easy way to start is use 23andme.com to get your Health + Ancestry genetic testing kit (about $200) that you can do at home. You just spit in a tube and send it in to get your unique DNA genetics.

Then you can access and send your raw data for analysis using Strategene to determine if you have MTHFR and/or other genetic issues. You also may want to consider discussing the findings with a health professional trained in MTHFR and methylation.

Learn more about MTHFR at NIH.gov or MTHFR.net to see if you too are a mutant.

Stay safe and healthy, j & B

SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline (counseling and support before, during, and after disasters)

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline puts people in need of counseling on the path to recovery. Their staff members provide counseling and support before, during, and after disasters and refer people to local disaster-related resources for follow-up care and support.

Since its launch in February 2012, the Disaster Distress Helpline has provided counseling and support in response to disasters such as Hurricane Sandy, the Boston Marathon bombing, and the Ebola outbreak. SAMHSA also has an interpretation service that connects callers with counselors in more than 150 languages.

The Disaster Distress Helpline is staffed by trained counselors from a network of crisis call centers located across the United States. These counselors provide:

• Crisis counseling for people in emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster
• Information on how to recognize distress and its effects on individuals and families
• Tips for healthy coping
• Referrals to local crisis call centers for additional follow-up care and support

When you call or text, crisis counselors will listen to what’s on your mind with patience and without judgment. There is no need to give any identifying information when you contact the Disaster Distress Helpline. The counselor may ask you for some basic information at the end of the call, but these questions are optional and are intended to help SAMHSA keep track of the types of calls it receives.

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.

Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact the Disaster Distress Helpline.

• In the U.S. call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
• For all hard of hearing and deaf people use 1-800-846-8517.
• Spanish speakers call 1-800-985-5990 and press “2” or text Hablanos to 66746.

Learn more at disasterdistress.samhsa.gov ~ and please share this with others.

Save

“Know Your Lemons” campaign (breast cancer warning signs)

As I posted on USFRA.org recently, Corrine Beaumont, a young designer and founder of Worldwide Breast Cancer, has created a great breast cancer warning signs graphic as part of WBC’s “Know Your Lemons” campaign.

Beaumont lost both her grandmothers to breast cancer at the ages of 40 and 62 and found limited pictorial data about breast cancer warning signs, so she felt compelled to come up with a solution.

Her designs provide a simple, visual way of showing what breast cancer symptoms can look and feel like using lemons. She has also developed great graphic below explaining what to feel for during a breast exam.

Learn more on WBC’s “Know Your Lemons” Facebook page or visit www.worldwidebreastcancer.org and share these resources with others.

Holiday food safety tips (Fight Bac!, food intolerance + pet safety)

Food is a huge part of the holiday season so we wanted to share some resources and tips about food safety for your public education campaigns, as well as for you personally.

The Partnership for Food Safety Education develops and promotes effective education programs to reduce foodborne illness risk for consumers. The Partnership states the US food supply is among the safest in the world, but organisms that you can’t see, smell, or taste – bacteria, viruses, and tiny parasites – are everywhere in the environment.

Each year 48 million illnesses, 128,000 hospitalizations, and 3,000 deaths in the U.S. can be traced to foodborne pathogens, according to the CDC.

The Partnership’s Fightbac.org site explains foodborne illness is much more than the “stomach flu”, and it is a serious health issue and economic burden for consumers. The Economic Research Service (ERS) of the USDA says each year $6.9 billion in costs are associated with five bacterial pathogens, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and 2 forms of E. coli. These costs are associated with medical expenses, lost productivity, and even death.

Food Safety tips from Fightbac.org

• Throw away all perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, eggs and casseroles, left at room temperature longer than two hours; one hour in air temperatures above 90°F. This also includes leftovers taken home from a restaurant. Some exceptions are foods such as cookies, crackers, bread and whole fruits.

• Whole roasts, hams and turkeys should be sliced or cut into smaller pieces or portions before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer.

• Refrigerate or freeze leftovers in shallow containers. Wrap or cover the food. Leftovers stored in the refrigerator should be consumed within 3-4 days, and leftovers should be heated to 165°F prior to consumption.

• Foods stored longer may become unsafe to eat and cause foodborne illness. Do not taste leftovers that appear to be safe, bacteria that cause illness does not affect the taste, smell, or appearance of food.

• Frozen storage times are much longer, but some items such as salads made with mayonnaise do not freeze well. Foods kept frozen longer than recommended storage times are safe to eat, but may be drier and not taste as good.

• WHEN IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT!

Find more safety data, kids games and activities, videos, brochures and other resources at www.fightbac.org

Food intolerance

Be aware some guests may have dietary issues and/or food allergies so please don’t be offended if they decline meals or drinks or if they bring their own food and beverages.

For example, Bill has celiac disease so he must avoid all gluten, plus we both have issues with carrageenan, various gums (e.g. xanthan, guar, carob bean, etc.), MSG, yeast extract and more so we are very cautious about eating anything we don’t prepare ourselves.

If you purchase special foods and snacks for guests with allergy issues read product packages and ingredient labels carefully and watch for statements that say if items are processed on shared equipment. Sometimes you’ll be amazed just simple things like packaged fruits and vegetables can be cross-contaminated as shown in this photo from Oh Mah Deehness’ blog.

Many companies are getting better about including allergen information on labels and websites, plus some even offer special toll-free numbers and email ids so you can reach out to them direct.

Don’t forget about pets

We all love sharing people food with our furbabies, but remember to keep toxic foods like chocolate, nuts, onions, mushrooms, grapes, raisins and xylitol (a sugar substitute) away from pets. Also limit rich, fatty foods like ham, turkey or goose and dairy products since they can cause digestive issues.

For more information on foods that could be unsafe for pets, visit the HumanSociety.org and ASPCA.org , and check out 2 great infographics on “Thanksgiving food safety: Do’s and Don’ts” and “Toxic Foods for Dogs” .

Also keep in mind holiday plants like poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and amaryllis can be toxic to pets.

If you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, take note the amount ingested and contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Find more holiday tips in our “Winter Safety Tips for Pets and Livestock” blog post … and we hope everyone has a nice, safe Thanksgiving and Christmas season! Stay safe, j & B