Influenza - is it worth the risk?

The following important message is from Kidney Health Australia's Online Bulletin.

The National Institute of Clinical Studies (NICS) has launched their 2007 www.fightflu.com.au campaign and website to provide information about the real risk of influenza and encourage vaccinations amongst health care providers, carers and people of all ages at risk of developing complications such as pneumonia.

There are over 1.2 million Australians aged 18-64 who are in the 'at risk' groups because they have a chronic disease such as diabetes, kidney failure, cancer or severe asthma, said NICS CEO, Dr Heather Buchan.

We know that vaccination is the single most effective preventative measure against influenza, but only 42 per cent of those at risk are being vaccinated. Influenza can kill but vaccinations saves lives so avoiding it really isn't worth the risk, said Dr Buchan.

For more information, visit www.fightflu.com.au or contact Sue Montague on (03) 8866 0415 or email: smontague@nicsl.com.au

Sue Bayliss. Cairns, Australia.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

COPD is the acronym for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a name referring to a group of respiratory diseases. These diseases are characterized by resistance to airflow. Resistance may result from the following causes:

• 
  Asthma and bronchitis / mucus blockage / smooth muscle spasm / constricted airways.
• 
  Emphysema / lack of elastic recoil in the lungs / airway inflammation / destruction of air sacs (alveoli) in lungs and small airways (bronchioles).
• 
  Airway blockage resulting from repeated exposure to dust, pet dander or other irritants causing swelling and clogging with mucous / chronic bronchitis.

These are only some of the more common causes of COPD. If you are concerned for your own health, for someone in your family, talk to your family doctor.

If you are diagnosed with any form of dystonia and you suspect you may also have lung disease, get it checked out as a matter of urgency. Dystonic muscles make everyday living difficult without the added concern about a lung condition.

It is also possible that dystonia will compound any lung disorder if you suffer with dysphagia or spasming diaphragm muscles.

Follow the links above for more information about lung disease, dysphagia and dystonia.

Wherever you are breathe freely, swallow safely, live with hope and enjoy your day!

Sue Bayliss. Cairns Australia.