Local
Increase Economic growth by removing the lead
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) released a report in conjunction with the University of Minnesota demonstrating the economic benefits of removing all lead from drinking water infrastructure. The report states the total cost to remove all lead would be just over $4 billion, but the economic and public health benefits would surpass $8 billion. Removal would entail replacing lead service lines and replacing in-home plumbing and fixtures.
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause long-term health and behavioral problems and poses a particular problem in children. Despite there being no safe levels of lead, there are approximately half a million children in the United States with blood level above the reference level at which the CDC recommends public health action.
The report projects that the removal of lead will enhance brain development and lifetime productivity in people therefore resulting in higher earnings and taxes paid. This would lead to a potential economic benefit of more than 8 billion dollars. The report offers a range of strategies varying in cost to address the lead problem.
National
Hill’s Recalls more pet food due to excessive Vitamin D levels
Hill’s Pet Nutrition has recently expanded its recall of canned dog food due to the presence of elevated levels of Vitamin D. Hill’s recommends owners who purchases any of the recalled products to discontinue feeding them to their pets immediately and dispose of them. The recall does not include cat food, treats, or dry foods. The canned dog food has been recalled in at least 78 countries worldwide.
Vitamin D is essential to regulate the balance and retention of calcium and phosphorus in the body. A excess level of Vitamin D toxicity can lead to serious health problems including kidney dysfunction and death.
The recall was caused by the use of a vitamin premix from a single U.S.-based supplier. The company is recommending that any dog that is displaying signs of Vitamin D toxicity such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased urination and thirst, excessive drooling, and/or weight loss to contact their veterinarian immediately.
International
The Congo is still suffering from the second deadliest recorded Ebola outbreak
The Ebola epidemic in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has surpassed 1,000 cases with a current death toll of 625. The epidemic is the second largest recorded outbreak of Ebola ever and the largest in the DRC’s history. Despite 24/7 work to prevent the spread, this outbreak remains highly complex with active transmission in 21 health zones and with an addition of a new case in Bunia, a city of close to 1 million people.
The outbreak began on August 1, 2018 when the Ministry of Health reported Ebola virus in North Kivu Province. The outbreak continued with moderate intensity spreading to multiple health zones. Compared to previous outbreaks, health workers have been better prepared with new technologies such as trial vaccines, experimental treatments and mobile units. However, public mistrust and insecurity have delayed control efforts.
To complicate matters more, the region affected is also experiencing armed conflict, outbreaks of violence, and other problems that complicate the public health response resulting in an increased risk of transmission both locally and to surrounding countries. In the last month, five Ebola centers have been attacked. Due to these attacks, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) had to suspend its activities in the epicenter of the outbreak last month. Despites this, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with international partners and neighboring countries, are ensuring a robust and well-coordinated response to bring an end to the outbreak.
Gus Brihn
Gus completed his undergraduate degree at the U of M in Global Studies, and has spent much of his time abroad, including time in France and Namibia. Gus became interested in emergency medicine from becoming a Wilderness First Responder and NR-EMT. He completed his veterinary degree at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Gus is interested in zoonotic disease outbreak investigation, prevention, and epidemiology. Outside of work, Gus enjoys rock climbing and doing Brazilian Jiu jitsu. He has an 11 year-old Staffordshire terrier mix breed dog named Sweet Pea.