Health Highlights: Nov. 19, 2009
Nov. 20 -- Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by editors of HealthDay:
Vicks Nasal Spray Recalled Due to Bacteria
Proctor & Gamble Co. is recalling about 120,000 bottles of its Vicks Sinex nasal spray due to bacteria the company found in some samples during testing, the Associated Press reported Thursday.
According to P & G spokesman Tom Millikin, the voluntary recall is a precaution after small amounts of the B. cepacia bacteria were found in the non-prescription spray in a routine check at a plant in Germany. The recall involves three lots of the spray sent to the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Regulatory agencies in all three countries have been informed, the company asid.
No illnesses linked to the contamination have yet been reported, Millikin said, but the bacteria could harm people with chronic lung ailments or weak immune systems.
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Flu Worries Shouldn't Affect Travel Plans: CDC
The threat of the H1N1 flu shouldn't prevent people from traveling this holiday season, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which on Thursday launched a public education campaign about staying healthy while traveling.
"The holidays are one of the busiest travel times of the year," Dr. Anne Schuchat, director of CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said in a news release. "People are in close contact - whether they're on a plane, train, ship or just visiting with loved ones. This campaign provides practical advice to help travelers prepare for their trips and stay healthy during their holiday travel."
The agency offers the following advice:
- Travel only when you feel well.
- Get vaccinated for flu (both seasonal flu and H1N1 flu if you're in a priority group).
- Wash your hands often.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or tissue.
"We know that flu - and specifically H1N1 this year - is a big concern for people, but flu shouldn't ruin the holidays," Schuchat said. "By practicing a little prevention, people can enjoy their holidays and stay well at the same time."
