CPR Update & Avian Flu

New CPR Guidelines

New emergency care guidelines are due to come into effect during the next 2 months of this year. They include dramatic changes to CPR and an emphasis on chest compressions, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. The new guidelines constitute the most significant change since CPR’s inception in the early 1960s.

The 2005 guidelines, which are based on a “back to basics” approach,emphasize that high-quality CPR, particularly effective chest compressions, contributes significantly to the successful resuscitation of cardiac arrest victims. Contact us for more information.

The Avian Flu

Recent news reports about an outbreak of avian influenza in several countries have generated questions about the possibility of a flu pandemic in Canada.

Here are some facts and recommendations to help protect you and your family.

Pandemic influenza is a term used to describe a worldwide epidemic of influenza. It means that the virus emerges from one location and spreads very quickly throughout the world. During the last century this happened three times:

* 1918 – The Spanish flu pandemic infected 20% of the world’s population (20-40 million deaths)
* 1957 and 1968 were not as deadly, but still caused many deaths throughout the world

What is Avian Influenza (or “Bird Flu”)?

There are many different strains of influenza viruses. Many people in Canada and around the world are affected each year by a strain of human influenza virus, or “the flu”. Avian Influenza (sometimes referred to as “Bird Flu”) is a viral infection that mostly affects birds such as chickens, ducks and geese.

Can I catch Avian Influenza?

For most Canadians, the risk of catching avian flu is extremely low. Your chances of being infected by a human influenza virus (or “catching the flu”) are much higher. Avian Influenza is most often spread from bird to bird, while human influenza is spread from person to person. In rare cases, Avian Influenza can be spread from infected birds to people through direct contact such as during the slaughter, de-feathering and preparation of poultry for cooking. яндекс

How I can protect my family and myself?

• Wash your hands often, using plenty of soap and warm water.
• Cover your mouth when you cough.
• Use a tissue or a handkerchief when you sneeze.
• If you become sick, stay at home.
• Talk to your health care provider about the annual flu shot.

Specifically for Avian Influenza:

• Make sure that all poultry meat and eggs are thoroughly cooked.
• Avoid contact with sick or dead birds.
• Talk to your doctor if you are planning to travel to high-risk countries about minimizing the risk.

What happens if there is a pandemic?

If there is an influenza pandemic in Canada, health officials will provide instructions through the media regarding any additional measures that should be taken.