Health Issues

Recent VA News Releases

http://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel

VA Services for Returning Combat Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and
Operation Enduring Freedom

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has developed special programs
to serve the nation's newest veterans -- the men and women who served in
Iraq and Afghanistan -- by assisting them with a smooth transition from
active duty to civilian life. VA's goal is to ensure that every
seriously injured or ill serviceman and woman returning from combat
receives easy access to benefits and world-class service. Combat
veterans have special health care eligibility. Their contact with VA
often begins with priority scheduling for care and, for the most
seriously wounded, VA counselors visiting their bedside in military
wards before separation to ensure their VA disability payment coverage
will be ready the moment they leave active duty. Through enhanced
programs and new policies, VA is striving to ensure it holds open the
doors to a seamless transition from soldier to citizen.

Benefits and Services

For two years after discharge, these veterans have special access to VA
health care, even those who have no service-connected illness. Veterans
can become "grandfathered" for future access by enrolling with VA during
this period. This covers not only regular active-duty personnel who
served in Iraq or Afghanistan, but also Reserve or National Guard
members serving in the combat theaters. Veterans with service-related
injuries or illnesses always have access to VA care for the treatment of
their disabilities without any time limit, as do lower-income veterans.
Hospital care, outpatient treatment and nursing home services are
offered at 1,400 locations. Additional information about VA medical
eligibility is available at http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility .

VA's broad range of benefits includes disability compensation and
pension, vocational rehabilitation and employment, education and
training, home loan guarantees, automobile and specially adaptive
equipment grants, home modification programs for the disabled, life
insurance and traumatic injury protection, and survivor benefits.
Information on these programs is available at
http://www.vba.va.gov/benefit_facts/index.htm .

VA launched an ambitious outreach initiative to ensure separating combat
veterans know about VA benefits. Programs available to them, including
compensation for service-related disabilities, are described at
http://www.seamlesstransition.va.gov/benefits.asp. Each veteran with
service in Iraq or Afghanistan receives a letter from Secretary of
Veterans Affairs Jim Nicholson introducing the veteran to VA and its
benefits and providing phone numbers and Web sites for more information.

As with all military members, transition briefings prior to discharge
also acquaint them with benefits as do additional pamphlet mailings
following separation. Brochures, wallet cards and videos have been
produced, and briefings are being conducted at town hall meetings,
family readiness groups and during unit drills near the homes of
returning Guard members and reservists. Because of the large number of
reservists and Guard members mobilized in this conflict, VA has made a
special effort to work with their units to reach transitioning service
members at demobilization sites and has trained recently returned
veterans to serve as National Guard Bureau liaisons in every state to
assist their fellow combat veterans.

Seamless Transition Liaisons for the Severely Wounded

In an effort to assist wounded military members and their families, VA
has placed workers at key military hospitals where severely injured
servicemembers from Iraq and Afghanistan are frequently sent. These
include benefit counselors who help the servicemember obtain VA services
as well as social workers who facilitate health care coordination and
discharge planning as servicemembers transition from military to VA
care. Under this program, VA staff members serve at Walter Reed Army
Medical Center in Washington, D.C.; National Naval Medical Center in
Bethesda, Md.; Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Ft. Gordon, Ga.; Brooke
Army Medical Center at Ft. Sam Houston, Texas; Madigan Army Medical
Center at Tacoma, Wash.; Darnall Army Medical Center at Ft. Hood, Texas;
Evans Army Hospital at Ft. Carson, Colo.; and Camp Pendleton Naval
Medical Center in San Diego.

VA and the Department of Defense have improved collaboration and
communication. VA employees based at military treatment facilities
brief service members about VA health benefits, disability compensation,
vocational rehabilitation and employment. Coordinators at each VA
benefits regional office and VA medical center work both with the
outbased VA counselors and with military discharge staff to ensure a
smooth transition to VA services at locations nearest to the veteran's
residence after discharge. At the VA facilities serving the veteran's
home town, the hospital is alerted when the seriously wounded
servicemember is being discharged so that the continuity of his or her
medications and therapy is ensured when they arrive home.

Medical Conditions of Combat Veterans

Patterns of disease shown in diagnoses of recent combat veterans who
have come to VA for care have not suggested significant differences from
the types of primary care, chronic conditions or mental health issues
seen in earlier combat veterans. However, careful studies will be
required to draw appropriate comparisons using control groups of similar
veterans, representative samplings, and other scientific methods. An
early neurological study tested 654 Army veterans before deployment to
Iraq in 2003 and again after returning in 2005, finding mild impairments
in memory and attention lapses, but significantly faster reaction times
when compared to other veterans not deployed to the theater. These
warrant further investigation. VA also will analyze combat veterans'
deaths from diseases in hopes of publishing mortality studies in the
future.

Nationally automated data from VA's payment system for service-connected
diseases and disabilities does not distinguish between combat-related
injuries and those incurred or worsened while the service member was in
non-hostile locations. Some of the most common service-connected
conditions among those who served at some point in the Iraq and
Afghanistan theaters include musculoskeletal conditions and hearing
disorders.

Polytrauma Centers Provide Specialized Care

Improvised explosive devices and rocket-propelled grenades often result
in devastating injuries, including amputations, sensory loss and brain
injury. Modern body armor and advances in front-line trauma care have
enabled combat veterans to survive severe attacks that in prior wars
were fatal. In response to the demand for specialized services, VA
expanded its four traumatic brain injury centers in Minneapolis, Palo
Alto, Richmond and Tampa to become polytrauma centers encompassing
additional specialties to treat patients for multiple complex injuries.
This is being expanded into a network of 21 polytrauma network sites and
polytrauma clinic support teams around the country providing
state-of-the-art treatment closer to injured veterans' homes.

These centers treat traumatic brain injury alone or in combination with
amputation, blindness, or other visual impairment, complex orthopedic
injuries, auditory and vestibular disorders, and mental health concerns.
VA has added clinical expertise to address the special problems that the
multi-trauma combat injured patient may face. This can include
intensive psychological support treatment for both patient and family,
intensive case management, improvements in the treatment of vision
problems, and rehabilitation using the latest high-tech specialty
prostheses. Polytrauma teams bring together experts to provide
innovative, personalized treatment to help the injured service member or
veteran achieve optimal function and independence.

Because brain injury is being recognized as the signature injury of the
current conflict, VA launched an educational initiative to provide its
clinicians a broad base of knowledge with which to identify potential
traumatic brain injury patients, mechanisms for effective care, and a
better understanding of patients who experience this condition. VA has
made training mandatory for physicians and other key staff in primary
care, mental health and rehabilitation programs.

Mental Health Care and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

About one-third of these combat veterans who seek care from VA have a
possible diagnosis of a mental disorder, and VA has significantly
expanded its counseling and mental health services. VA has launched new
programs, including dozens of new mental health teams based in VA
medical centers focused on early identification and management of
stress-related disorders, as well as the recruitment of about 100 combat
veterans in its Readjustment Counseling Service to provide briefings to
transitioning servicemen and women regarding military-related
readjustment needs.

Many of the challenges facing the soldiers returning from Afghanistan
and Iraq are stressors that have been identified and studied in veterans
of previous wars. VA has developed world class expertise in treating
chronic mental health problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD).

Post-traumatic stress involves a normal set of reactions to a trauma
such as war. Sometimes it becomes a disorder with the passage of time
when feelings or issues related to the trauma are not dealt with and are
suppressed by the individual. This can result in problems readjusting
to community life following the trauma. Since the war began, VA has
activated dozens of new PTSD programs around the country to assist
veterans in dealing with the emotional toll of combat. In addition, 207
readjustment counseling "vet centers" provide easy access in
consumer-friendly facilities apart from traditional VA medical centers.

One early scientific study indicated the estimated risk for PTSD from
service in the Iraq war was 18 percent, while the estimated risk for
PTSD from the Afghanistan mission was 11 percent. Data from multiple
sources now indicate that approximately 10 to 15 percent of soldiers
develop PTSD after deployment to Iraq and another 10 percent have
significant symptoms of PTSD, depression or anxiety and may benefit from
care. Alcohol misuse and relationship problems add to these rates.
Combat veterans are at higher risk for psychiatric problems than
military personnel serving in noncombat locations, and more frequent and
more intensive combat is associated with higher risk. With military
pre- and post-deployment health assessment programs seeking to
destigmatize mental health treatment, coupled with simplified access to
VA care for combat veterans after discharge, experts believe initial
high rates likely will decrease.

Studies of PTSD patients in general have suggested as many as half may
enjoy complete remission and the majority of the remainder will improve.
Research has led to scientifically developed treatment guidelines
covering a variety of modern therapies with which clinicians have had
success. Treatments range from psychological first aid to cognitive
behavioral therapy. Psychopharmacology may include drugs such as Zoloft
or Paxil -- with newer drugs under studies now in progress. More
information about VA's PTSD programs is available at
http://www.va.gov/opa/fact/docs/ptsd.doc and http://www.ncptsd.va.gov.

Additional Resources

Combat Veterans Information
http://www.va.gov/Environagents/page.cfm?pg=16

Transition Assistance Program
http://www.va.gov/opa/fact/tranasst.asp

PTSD and Combat Veterans
http://www.ncptsd.org/topics/war.html

Survivors Benefits
http://www.vba.va.gov/survivors/index.htm

Women Veterans Information
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Topics/Women/

I really need this to be posted to email groups of veterans, please help.

The request is made ANY GULF WAR VETERANS OF OPERATION DESERT STORM THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED VISION PROBLEMS PLEASE EMAIL : DSNurse@aol.com

Vision problems with gulf war vets with CFS needs to be investigated!

1: Vestn Oftalmol. 2003 Mar-Apr;119(2):45-7. Links

[Pathology of the organ of vision in chronic fatigue syndrome]

[Article in Russian]

Frolov VM,
Petrunia AM.

218 patients were examined and the chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) was diagnosed in them on the basis of clinical-and-immunologic data. 126 somatically healthy persons of the same age and sex were in the control group. Vascular pathology of the vision organ was found in 153 (70.2%) persons, and dystrophic pathology was found in 115 (52.8%) persons. A combination of vascular and dystrophic pathologies of the vision organ was diagnosed in 46 (21.1%) patients. The detection of vision pathology in the CFS patients essentially exceeded the morbidity of similar pathology in the controls. No reliable differences of refraction anomalies were found between the CFS patients and the controls.

PMID: 13678013 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The key here is that a lot of clues and hints to cancer, vascular problems, neurological diseases can be found in the full examination of the eyes! MS, parkinson's, Lupus, Cancers, sclerosis, autoimmune disorders.

A lot of times vision changes are the earliest changes that will be able to be found easily if examined!

Now the gulf war veterans have higher occurrence of brain cancers, ALS, MS so it might behoove all of us gulf war veterans, veterans advocates, supporters to look at resources re does the VA have adequate high level neuro-opthamologist to help?, do we need fee basis, do we need just a little bit of research into very specific areas?, do we need VA benefits to look at this? do we need legislation to do any of the above?

DO we need to push UTSW med to at least do one study?

Also the problem with hearing re ringing in ears that leads us to think about chemical posioning otology and effect on nerves and demylineration? Ototoxicity?

These are definite areas that could help prove a connection THAT HAVE NOT BEEN INCLUDED.

http://www.optometry.co.uk/files/31bf9ce890a566df38393231decff1a5_mort20000630.pdf

Neuro-optham.....vasculitis problems from Vaccines too.

So we have chemicals(all sources re sarin, pesticides,vaccine)Plus infections that can be traced.....

Vaccination Information Service

Whom do you trust, nature or man?
HOME ARTICLES  LINKS CHALLENGE FROM US EMAIL
BROCHURES VIDEO/DVD OTHER BOOKS/VIDEOS ORDER

NEW! General information brochures - educate your local community!

Influenza or 'Flu vaccination

Your best chance of getting your worst ever case of the 'flu.

Bronwyn Hancock January 2004

What WILL protect against the 'flu

Stories from 'flu vaccine recipients

Vaccine Ingredients

It is difficult to determine every single ingredient of any particular vaccine, as not all ingredients have to be revealed, but we do know that the influenza vaccine contains at least beta-propiolactone, mercury and aluminium (aluminum) compounds, detergent or solvent-detergent, embryonated eggs and one or more strains of the influenza virus. The virus is in far higher numbers than what is enough for a person to contract the virus naturally, if and when they are susceptible.

Note that the beta-propiolactone in the vaccine does not permanently inactivate the virus. Once the brew is injected and the contents disperse around the body, the virus can revert to its former virulence. Hence the oft reported sizeable influenza outbreaks in nursing homes soon after vaccination programs.

Since there is no legal requirement for vaccine manufacturers to list ingredients that are under a .05% concentration level, we do not know what other ingredients are specifically in the influenza vaccine, but in Vaccine Ingredients is a list of ingredients that are in vaccines in general.

Documented Vaccine Effects

·      bad case of the flu (headache, fever, feeling of malaise and other flu symptoms requiring confinement to bed ("10% recipients" - a conservative figure, I would say) and often leaving lingering illness [1]),

·      confusion/derailing/weakening of immune system, resulting in increased susceptibility to any viral and bacterial infection, e.g. HIV, hepatitis C, etc [2],

·      exacerbation (or first ever attack) of asthma (8%), bronchitis, pneumonia, Legionnaires’ disease and other pulmonary complications [3 and 6],

·      anaphylactic shock (potentially fatal), not only where there is an allergy to egg [4],

·      vasculitis and joint problems - arthritis, arthralgia, myalgia, lupus, edema, (poly)arteritis [5],

·      neurological disorders - many different types and manifestations (including Parkinson’s Disease) [6],

·      blood abnormalities - thrombocytopenia and severe neutropenia [7],

·      optic neuritus and permanent blindness [8],

·      acute transverse myelitis and myelopathy [9],

·      aseptic meningitis (which is the newer name for non-paralytic polio) [10],

·      paralysis [11],

·      Guillain-Barre syndrome (newer name for paralytic polio, causes weakness, respiratory failure, paralysis, possible death) (.001-.005% recorded for the U.S. swine-flu vaccine in 1976, particularly with subsequent flu vaccination 1978-81) [12],

·      encephalitis, encephalomyelitis, causing mental problems such as confusion and hallucinations [13],

·      multiple sclerosis (can be initiated or exacerbated by influenza vaccination) [13a]

·      heart problems, e.g. pericarditis [14],

·      skin problems – ulcers, lesions, urticaria, bullous pemphigoid, etc [15],

·      anosmia (loss of sense of smell) [16],

·      damage to metabolism [17],

·      delerium [18]

·      death [19]

·      many other conditions documented in Hennessen et al. (referenced below under neurological disorders [6]).

Any impairment of the immune system (e.g. allergies, auto-immune diseases) increases the risk of harm from vaccination.

Note that even an article in New Woman magazine (1997) that was encouraging readers to get the vaccine, quoted an infectious diseases consultant at the Albert Hospital in Melbourne, Dr Chris Fairley, as saying that the vaccine is "highly effective and safe, except for those who are pregnant, have underlying illness or are over the age of 65" (emphasis added).

AND YET...

...it is these very groups of people that are most pressured to have the vaccine. Is this push promoted by the pharmaceutical industry because these groups are most likely to suffer problems from the vaccines which will cause them to be prescribed more profit-making drugs? I do not know and I would like to think not - if anyone can think of a better explanation I would love to hear it.

The following are some references for each of the above effects:

[1] Contracting the ‘flu

·    Bernad Valles M, et al. [Adverse reactions to different types of influenza vaccines]. Med Clin (Barc). 1996 Jan 13;106(1):11-14.

·    Gerth HJ. [Letter: Influenza following influenza vaccination]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 1976 Jul 2;101(27):1043.

·    Goodman RA, et al. Influenza and influenza vaccination. Am Fam Physician. 1980 Jan;21(1):101-5.

[2] Confusion/derailing/weakening of immune system

·    JAMA, April 28, 1993; Am J Epidemiol, 1995;141:1089-96

·    Clin Exper Immunol, 1996;104(2):203-7; Ped Infec Dis J, 1996;15(3):197-203

·    Owensby JE, et al. Cellulitis and myositis caused by Agrobacterium radiobacter and Haemophilus parainfluenzae after influenza virus vaccination. South Med J. 1997 Jul;90(7):752-4.

[3] Pulmonary/respiratory problems

·    Nicholson, Karl G.; Nguyen-Van-Tam, Jonathan S.; Ahmed, Ala'eldin H.; et al. "Randomized Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial on Effect of Inactivated Influenza Vaccine on Pulmonary Function in Asthma" Lancet (01/31/98) Vol. 351, No. 9099, p. 326;

·    Park CL, et al. Does influenza vaccination exacerbate asthma? Drug Saf. 1998 Aug;19(2):83-8. Review.

·    Jovanovic D. Respiratory effects of live influenza virus vaccine. Am Rev Respir Dis. 1977 Dec;116(6):1121.

·    Scheibner, V. Vaccination. 100 Years of Medical Research shows that Vaccines Represent a Medical Assault on the Immune System. Scheibner Publications 1993 pp 198-199

[4] Anaphylactic shock

·    Guillevin L, et al. [Hypersensitivity reaction following vaccination against influenza]. Presse Med. 1983 Jun 18;12(26):1668-9. French.

·    Warren, W.R. Encephalopathy due to Influenza Vaccine. A.M.A. Archives of Internal Medicine, 1956; 97:803

[5] Vasculitis and joint problems

·    J Rheumatology, 1997;24:1198-1202

·    J Rheumatology, 1993;20(8):1429-31

·    Beijer WE, et al. [Polymyalgia rheumatica and influenza vaccination]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 1993 Feb 5;118(5):164-5.

·    Biasi D, et al. A case of reactive arthritis after influenza vaccination. Clin Rheumatol. 1994 Dec;13(4):645.

·    Brown MA, et al. Rheumatic complications of influenza vaccination. Aust N Z J Med. 1994 Oct;24(5): 572-3.

·    ConfinI, et al. Erythromelalgia following influenza vaccine in a child. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 1997 Jan-Feb;15(1):111-3.

·    Kelsall JT, et al. Microscopic polyangiitis after influenza vaccination. J Rheumatol. 1997 Jun;24(6):1198-202. Review.

·    Blumberg S, et al. A possible association between influenza vaccination and small-vessel vasculitis. Arch Intern Med. 1980 Jun;140(6):847-8.

·    Cannata J, et al. Reactivation of vasculitis after influenza vaccination. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed). 1981 Aug 22;283(6290):526.

·    Houston TP. Small-vessel vasculitis following simultaneous influenza and pneumococcal vaccination. N Y State J Med. 1983 Oct-Nov;83(11-12):1182-3.

·    Lohse A, et al. Vascular purpura and cryoglobulinemia after influenza vaccination. Case-report and literature review. Rev Rhum Engl Ed. 1999 Jun;66(6):359-60.

·    Mader R, et al. Systemic vasculitis following influenza vaccination--report of 3 cases and literature review. J Rheumatol. 1993 Aug;20(8):1429-31. Review.

·    Molina M, et al.[Leukocytoclastic vasculitis secondary to flu vaccination]. Med Clin (Barc). 1990 Jun 9;95(2):78.

·    Wharton CF, et al. Letter: Polyarteritis after influenza vaccination. Br Med J. 1974 May 11;2(914):331-2.

·    Ayvazian LF. Influenza immunization and lupus erythematosus. Ann Intern Med. 1979 Jan;90(1):127-8.

[6] Neurological disorders

·    British researchers report that there is a correlation between pulmonary-function abnormalities and complications due to flu vaccination…

·    Ehrengut, W.; Allerdist, H.; Über neurologische Komplikationen nach der Influenzaschutzimpfung. Münch. med. Wschr., 1977;119/705-710 5. Rabin, J.; JAMA, 1973; 225:63

·    Furlow TW Jr. Neuropathy after influenza vaccination [letter]. Lancet. 1977 Jan 29;1(8005):253-4.

·    Graus F, et al.     Acute necrotic myelopathy associated with influenza vaccination. Lancet. 1987 Jun 6;1(8545):1311-2.

·    Hasselbacher P.   Neuropathy after influenza vaccination [letter]. Lancet. 1977 Mar 5;1(8010):551-2.

·    Heidel G, et al. [Neurologic syndromes as atypical courses of vaccination following preventive influenza A vaccination]. Z Gesamte Hyg. 1985 Apr;31(4):218-20. German.

·    Hennessen, W.; Jacob, H.; Quast, U.; Neurologische Affektionen nach Influenza - Impfung. Der Nervenarzt, 1978; 49/90-96. Hennessen et.al. called the spectrum of syndromes "remarkably wide" and noticed that in the course of a postvaccination disease process it is not rare for them to mingle into many different mixtures.

·    Herderschee D, et al. [Myelopathy following influenza vaccination]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 1995 Oct 21;139(42):2152-4. Dutch. The emphasis upon the remarkably large number of cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome which resulted from the 1976 National Swine Influenza immunization program in the U.S.A. has obscured the fact that other neurological complications, involving the central nervous system also occurred. The anatomical distribution of lesions is almost identical with that seen following other types of vaccination: involvement of the brain, cerebellum, optic nerve, cranial nerves and spinal cord occurred…

·    Neuropathy DyrFM.    Vaccination mononeuropathy. Ann Neurol. 1978 May;3(5):468.

·    Neuropathy Ehrengut W, et al. [Neurological complications after influenza vaccination]. MMW Munch Med Wochenschr. 1977 May 20;119(20):705-10.

·    Poser C . Neurological complications of swine influenza vaccination.   Acta Neurol Scand 1982 Oct;66(4):413-31

·    Scholl R, et al. [Neurologic disorders following influenza vaccination. A case report]. Med Welt. 1978 Nov 3;29(44):1707-9.

·    Selvaraj N, et al. Hemiparesis following influenza vaccination. Postgrad Med J. 1998 Oct;74(876):633-5.

·    Stohr M, et al.[Neurologic diseases following influenza vaccination]. Med Welt. 1976 May 7;27(19):912-4.

·    Yahr MD, et al. Relapsing encephalomyelitis following the use of influenza vaccine. Arch Neurol. 1972 Aug;27(2):182-3.

[7] Blood abnormalities

·    Clin Lab Haematol 1998 Oct;20(5):285-7 - Cummins D, et al. Haematological changes associated with influenza vaccination in people aged over 65: case report and prospective study. Clin Lab Haematol. 1998 Oct;20(5):285-7.

·    Brown RC, et al. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura after influenza vaccination. Br Med J. 1973 May 5;2(861):303.

·    Casoli P, et al. [Acute idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura after anti-influenza vaccination]. Medicina (Firenze). 1989 Oct-Dec;9(4):417-8.

·    Wattiaux MJ, et al. [Rheumatoid purpura following influenza vaccination]. Presse Med. 1988 Apr 9;17(13):649-50.

·    Patel U, et al. Henoch-Schonlein purpura after influenza vaccination. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed). 1988 Jun 25;296(6639):1800.

·    Cummins D, et al. Haematological changes associated with influenza vaccination in people aged over 65: case report and prospective study. Clin Lab Haematol. 1998 Oct;20(5):285-7.

·    Strom J. Cytological changes in the urine in the form of inclusion-bearing cells, giant cells and haematuria after vaccination with inactivated influenza virus vaccine. A study with application of Millipore procedure and Papanicolaou staining. Scand J Infect Dis. 1976;8(1):21-5.

[8] Optic neuritus and permanent blindness

·    Am J Epidemiology;1997;124:703-704;

·    J Neuro-Opthalmology, 1998,18:56-9;

·    J Neuro-Opthalmology, 1996;16:182-4

·    Bienfang DC, et al. Ocular abnormalities after influenza immunization. Arch Ophthalmol. 1977 Sep;95(9):1649.

·    Milkowski S. [Ocular complications following influenza]. Wiad Lek. 1971 Jan 15;24(2):103-8.

·    Blanche P, et al. Development of uveitis following vaccination for influenza. Clin Infect Dis. 1994 Nov;19(5):979.

·    Hull TP, et al. Optic neuritis after influenza vaccination. Am J Ophthalmol. 1997 Nov;124(5):703-4.

·    Kawasaki A, et al. Bilateral anterior ischemic optic neuropathy following influenza vaccination. J Neuroophthalmol. 1998 Mar;18(1):56-9.

·    Macoul KL. Bilateral optic nerve atrophy and blindness following swine influenza vaccination. Ann Ophthalmol. 1982 Apr;14(4):398-9.

·    Ray CL, et al. Bilateral optic neuropathy associated with influenza vaccination. J Neuroophthalmol. 1996 Sep;16(3):182-4.

·    Solomon A, et al. Bilateral simultaneous corneal graft rejection after influenza vaccination. Am J Ophthalmol. 1996 Jun;121(6):708-9.

[9] Acute transverse myelitis and myelopathy

·    J Neuroimaging, 1996;6:248-50;

·    Muscle & Nerve, 1995;18;1199-1201;

·    Nederlands Tijd voor Geneeskunde, 1995;139:2152-4

[10] Aseptic meningitis

·    Ichikawa N, et al. [Recurrent aseptic meningitis following influenza vaccination in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku. 1983 Jul;23(7):570-6.

[11] Paralysis

·    Felix, J.K.; Schwartz, R.H.; Myers, G.J.; Isolated hypoglossal nerve paralysis following influenza vaccination. Am J Dis Child. 1976 Jan;130(1):82-3.

·    Nederlands Tijd voor Geneeskunde, 1995;139:2152-4

[12] Guillaine-Barre syndrome

     Guillain-Barre syndrome (newer name for paralytic polio, causes weakness, respiratory failure, paralysis, possible death) (.001-.005% recorded in relation to the U.S. swine-flu vaccine in 1976, particularly with subsequent flu vaccination 1978-81)

·    Am J Epidemiology;1979;110:105-123

·    Beghi E, et al. Guillain-Barre syndrome. Clinicoepidemiologic features and effect of influenza vaccine. Arch Neurol. 1985 Nov;42(11):1053-7.

·    Breman JG, et al. Guillain-Barre syndrome and its relationship to swine influenza vaccination in Michigan, 1976-1977. Am J Epidemiol. 1984 Jun;119(6):880-9.

·    Bryan, J.; Noble, G.R.; Guillain-Barré Syndrome after administration of killed vaccines. Genf: Ref: IABS Symposium on Influenza Immunization 1.6-4.6.1977

·    Gurtovoi MI. Discovery of a possible connection between vaccination with inactivated chromatographic influenza vaccine and the development of the Guillain-Barre syndrome.Tr Inst Im Pastera.1985;63:78-81.

·    Keenlyside RA, et al. Fatal Guillain-Barre syndrome after the national influenza immunization program. Neurology. 1980 Sep;30(9):929-33.

·    Langmuir AD, et al. An epidemiologic and clinical evaluation of Guillain-Barre syndrome reported in association with the administration of swine influenza vaccines. Am J Epidemiol.1984 Jun;119(6):841-79.

·    Lasky T, et al. The Guillain-Barre syndrome and the 1992-1993 and 1993-1994 influenza vaccines. N Engl J Med. 1998 Dec 17;339(25):1797-802.

·    Mantel N. Re: "An epidemiologic and clinical evaluation of Guillain-Barre syndrome reported in association with the administration of swine influenza vaccines". Am J Epidemiol. 1985 Apr;121(4):620-3.

·    PelosiA, et al.     [Influenza vaccination and polyradiculoneuritis of the Guillain-Barre type]. Medicina (Firenze). 1990 Apr-Jun;10(2):169.

·    Roscelli JD, et al.   Guillain-Barre syndrome and influenza vaccination in the US Army, 1980-1988. Am J Epidemiol. 1991 May 1;133(9):952-5.

·    Schonberger LB, et al.   Guillain-Barre syndrome: its epidemiology and associations with influenza vaccination. Ann Neurol. 1981;9 Suppl:31-8.

·    Schonberger LB, et al. Guillain-Barre syndrome following vaccination in the National Influenza Immunization Program, United States, 1976--1977. Am J Epidemiol. 1979 Aug;110(2):105-23.

·    Ward DL.   Re: "Guillain-Barre syndrome and influenza vaccination in the US Army, 1980-1988". Am J Epidemiol. 1992 Aug 1;136(3):374-6.

·    [No authors listed] [Vaccination and the Guillain-Barre syndrome]. Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 1978 Nov 11;122(45):1780.

·    Robinson T, et al. Side effects of influenza vaccination. Br J Gen Pract. 1992 Nov;42(364):489-90.

As a result of a court order, computerized summaries of approximately 1,300 cases reported as Guillain-Barre syndrome by state health departments to the Centers for Disease Control during the intensive national surveillance instituted following the swine influenza vaccination program in 1976-1977 became available for further study. Although the data were not uniformly adequate to confirm the diagnosis of Guillain-Barre syndrome, they were sufficient to enable classification according to extent of motor involvement…

[13] Encephalitis, encephalomyelitis

·    Antony SJ, et al.    Postvaccinial (influenza) disseminated encephalopathy (Brown-Sequard syndrome). J Natl Med Assoc. 1995 Sep;87(9):705-8.

·    Froissart M, et al.    [Acute meningoencephalitis immediately after an influenza vaccination]. Lille Med. 1978 Oct;23(8):548-51.

·    Gross WL, et al. Meningoencephalitis syndrome following influenza vaccination. J Neurol. 1978 Feb 14;217(3):219-22.

·    JAMA, 1962;181:70

·    Rosenberg GA.   Meningoencephalitis following an influenza vaccination. N Engl J Med. 1970 Nov 26;283(22):1209.

·    Buchner H, et al. [Polyneuritis cranialis? Brain stem encephalitis and myelitis following preventive influenza vaccination]. Nervenarzt. 1988 Nov;59(11):679-82.

·    SaitH, et al. Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after influenza vaccination. Arch Neurol. 1980 Sep;37(9):564-6.

·    SaitH, et al. Acute cerebellar ataxia after influenza vaccination with recurrence and marked cerebellar atrophy. Tohoku J Exp Med. 1989 May;158(1):95-103.

·    Woods, C.A.; Ellison, G.W.; Encephalopathy following Influenza Immunization. J. Pediat., 1964;65,5:745-8

·    Warren, W.R.; Encephalopathy due to Influenza Vaccine. A.M.A. Archives of Internal Medicine, 1956; 97:803

[13a] Multiple Sclerosis

·    Hennessen, W.; Jacob, H.; Quast, U.; Neurologische Affektionen nach Influenza - Impfung. Der Nervenarzt, 1978; 49/90-96.

·    Miller, H.; Cendrowski, W.; Schapira, K.; Multiple Sclerosis and Vaccinations. BMJ 1967;April 22: 210-3

·    Sibley, W.; Foley, J.; Infection and Immunization in Multiple Sclerosis. Ann Ac Sci fenn , 1965; A 122:457-68

·    Sibley, W.; Bamford, C.R.; Laguna, J.F.; Influenza vaccination in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis. JAMA, 1976; 236, 17:1965-66

·    Yahr, M.D.; Lobo-Antunes, J.; Relapsing Encephalomyelitis Following the Use of Influenza Vaccine. Arch Neurol, 1972; 27:182-3

[14] Heart problems – pericarditis

·    Desson JF, et al. [Acute benign pericarditis after anti-influenza vaccination]. Presse Med. 1997 Mar 22;26(9):415.

·    Streifler JJ, et al. Recurrent pericarditis: a rare complication of influenza vaccination. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed). 1981 Aug 22;283(6290):526-7.

Influenza vaccination is a widely accepted practice particularly among the elderly and high risk individuals. Minor and transitory side effects following the vaccination are common while systemic complications are infrequently reported. We describe 3 patients who developed systemic vasculitis following influenza vaccination. With increasing use of influenza vaccination, attention should be drawn to the possible expression of systemic adverse effects such as vasculitis.

[15] Skin problems

·    Cambiaghi S, et al. Gianotti-Crosti syndrome in an adult after influenza virus vaccination. Dermatology. 1995;191(4):340-1.

·    Rieger HJ.      [Compensation claims in lesions caused by influenza vaccinations at work]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 1976 Apr 23;101(17):677-8.

·    Sawada Y, et al.     [Case of skin ulcer due to influenza HA vaccination]. Nippon Hifuka Gakkai Zasshi. 1983 Nov;93(12):1297-301.

·    Winkelmann RK.     Influenza vaccine and dermatomyositis. Lancet. 1982 Aug 28;2(8296):495.

·    Kumbar UN, et al.   Urticarial rash, periorbital edema following influenza (bivalent) vaccination [letter]. Can Med Assoc J. 1977 Apr 9;116(7):724.

·    Bodokh I, et al. [Reactivation of bullous pemphigoid after influenza vaccination]. Therapie. 1994 Mar-Apr;49(2):154.

·    Downs AM, et al. Does influenza vaccination induce bullous pemphigoid? A report of four cases. Br J Dermatol. 1998 Feb;138(2):363.

·    Fournier B, et al. Bullous pemphigoid induced by vaccination. Br J Dermatol. 1996 Jul;135(1):153-4.

·    Lear JT, et al. Bullous pemphigoid following influenza vaccination. Clin Exp Dermatol. 1996 Sep;21(5):392.

·    Schmutz JL, et al. [Does influenza vaccination induce bullous pemphigoid]? Ann Dermatol Venereol. 1999 Oct;126(10):765.

[16] Anosmia (loss of sense of smell)

·    Fiser Dj, et al. Anosmia after administration of influenza vaccine. Med Pregl. 1979;32(9-10):455-7.

[17] Damage to metabolism

·    Kramer P, et al. Depression of aminopyrine metabolism by influenza vaccination. N Engl J Med. 1981 Nov 19;305(21):1262-4.

[18] Delerium

·    Boutros N, et al. Delirium following influenza vaccination. Am J Psychiatry. 1993 Dec;150(12):1899.

[19] Death

·    Ehrengut, W.; Allerdist, H.; Über neurologische Komplikationen nach der Influenzaschutzimpfung. Münch. med. Wschr., 1977;119/705-710 5. Rabin, J.; JAMA, 1973; 225:63

·    Wells, C.E.C.; BMJ, 1971/2:755

General references

· Fluvirin product insert

· Ashton R. Side effects of influenza vaccination. Br J Gen Pract. 1992 Feb;42(355):82-4.

·    Barbuta R, et al. [Some complications of anti-influenza vaccination in a closed community of infants]. Microbiol Parazitol Epidemiol (Bucur). 1973 Sep-Oct;18(5):431-5.

·   Ehrengut W. Side effects of influenza vaccinations. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 1979 Dec 28;104(52):1836.

·    Hannoun C. [Problems with influenza vaccination]. Rev Med Suisse Romande. 1974 Apr;94(4):319-23.

·   Honkanen PO, et al. Reactions following administration of influenza vaccine alone or with pneumococcal vaccine the elderly. Arch Intern Med. 1996 Jan 22;156(2):205-8.

·    Retailliau HF, et al. Illness after influenza vaccination reported through a nationwide surveillance system, 1976-1977. Am J Epidemiol. 1980 Mar;111(3):270-8.

·    Schevill S; Can Med Assoc J, 1977 Feb 5. Adverse reactions to 1975 bivalent influenza vaccine in children.

·    Young G. Side effects of influenza immunization. Br J Gen Pract. 1992 Mar;42(356):131.

Plus more references in Scheibner, V. “Vaccination”. Scheibner Publications 1993

Some stories from 'flu vaccine recipients

Just in case you haven't got the basic thrust of this information yet, here are a few words from some people who have been at the wrong end of the syringe:

Adverse Reaction to Flu Shot

Date: Jan 29 2001, 02:40

From: Don Johnson <wildonjohn@email.msn.com>

I have had flu shots for years with no ill effects other than a sore arm and occasionally an out of sorts evening. After this year I will never take another one. Last Wednesday, Jan.24, 2001, I went to the Health Dept here in Birmingham, Al. and got a flu shot. I was feeling perfectly normal. I had to pay in advance so as soon as I got the shot I walked straight out of the building. I did not even feel the shot, but in the two minutes it took me to get to and walk out the front door, I knew something was wrong. I began immediately to ache from my neck to my leg on the side where I was injected. I'm talking like major cramping. I then began to get sicker and sicker. By Friday night I could not even take off my clothes I was having chills so bad and "every" joint in my body was stiff and aching and the walls of my chest and and the area where my kidneys are felt like I had been severely beaten. I became so congested that I had to use my asthma inhaler continually, that night, to breathe. I was afraid to go to sleep. I had a fever of 103.2. I have had the flu twice before in my life, but it was never as bad as the reaction I had to this shot. My fever has finally gone down, but I am still very sick after 5 days, just like you are during a major bout with the flu. I look like a raccoon my eyes are so dark and sunken. I actually wonder if I was somehow injected with "live" flu virus, instead of "killed" virus.

Although I know this is theoretically not possible, I pity those who actually get this strain of "live" flu. So if you had a shot, I hope you were lucky, if you haven't had a shot I would advise you not to get one. If you do get one, you may wind up with a bad case of flu symptoms that you may have otherwise not gotten.

Flu Shot Reaction

Re: flu vaccine

Date: Nov 25 2000, 23:26

Ref: Flu Shot Reaction:

My Mother had a flu shot last Tuesday on 11/21/00 at 2 PM. Next morning she had a rash and bad itching all over her right arm. The nurse said it was not a reaction to the flu shot. She went to the doctor on Friday 11/24/00. The doctor said it was a serious reaction to the flu shot and put her on two medicals and cream. She had memory loss for three days. She has had rash and itches which travel all over her body for the past several days.

HAS ANY OTHER PERSON WITH FLU SHOT REACTION HAD THE SAME CONDITION?? What did your doctor do??

GBS (Guillain-Barre Syndrome) resulting from flu shot

Re: flu vaccine

Date: Jan 04 2001, 12:57

In late November my 46 year old brother had his flu shot. By mid December he had severe back pain and was hospitalized by Dec 23 due to severe pain, sleep deprivation, numbness and control and focus problems with one eye. Due to severe Medicare cutbacks, hospital staff shortage over the Christmas break period and lack of forewarning of possible flu shot side affects, his diagnosis of GBS was delayed by several days! It is well known that GBS damage can be minimized by a timely diagnosis. This was not the case here. He is now on a slow recovery path and we can only hope and pray for the best.

Since he was not aware of a potential GBS side affect from the flu shot, it is obvious that he did not sign a waiver. His ability to maintain or advance his career may now be hampered at a critical time for support of his immediate and extended family.

I am shocked by the following events:

a) Failure to forewarn flu shot recipients of potential risks.

b) A failure by the hospital medical staff to initially ask if the patient recently had a flu shot.

c) Delays in diagnosis of GBS.

d) Failure to suspect the flu shot as the probable cause following GBS diagnosis. I was actually the first and only one to advise my brother that the flu shot was the probable cause upon first hearing of the GBS diagnosis. Even the neurologist seemed unaware! The probability that this was caused by the flu shot is around 98% or higher.

Sorry to say it, but I and many others are rapidly losing faith in our medical system which seems to be in a state of chaos! I will stop taking flu shots and will advise others to reconsider. Perhaps alternative medicine is worthy of closer examination.

Longterm flu-like symptoms from flu shot

Date: Jan 27 2001, 07:51

Near the end of October I received the flu shot and I have not been the same since. I have had chest congestion, coughing, nasal congestion, headaches and fatigue. I have talked to local people who have had similar reactions and was wondering if anyone can forward some websites with some supporting evidence.

Re: flu vaccine

Date: 2000, Aug 04

In October of 1999 I suffered a life threatening condition that resembled GBS. The presentation of the condition was not classic, but the results were the same. Progressive, ascending paralysis, demyelinating polyneuropathy. I was told that the cause of my problem was the flu shot that I received in October of 1999. My recovery has been very slow and agonizing to say the least. I am unable to work and have not been able to work since October of 1999. Still weak and with know stamina, I continue with my physical therapy. In the last month I have developed a disabling tremor in my right forearm and hand, and a severe trembling in the muscles of my right leg. A visit to Mayo, Rochester, revealed that the flu shot was not the only culprit in my affliction. The fact that I did not have the diagnostic protein in my spinal fluid negates the diagnosis of GBS, according to Mayo, the fact that when I received the flu shot, I was being evaluated for a possible reaction to the drug Zocor was significant to the doctor at Mayo. One of the best, if not the best peripheral neurologists in the country diagnosed me as a recipient of a multiple drug reaction from the flu shot and the drug Zocor. As it was explained to me, the Zocor altered the lipo-protein of the myelin sheath on my nerves causing the symptoms of a polyneuropathy, the flu shot activated my autoimmune system, which in turn could not recognize the altered tissue as my own and destroyed the altered myelin where it found it, thus causing the demyelinating symptoms similar to GBS. Does this mean anything to anybody? Has anybody heard of such a reaction before? Am I the only one in the world who has had this kind of reaction? Please respond.

AARDS reaction to the flu vaccine?

Re: flu vaccine

Date: Sep 19 2000, 21:48

From: Wendy Bentz <wendy@minot.ndak.net>

In November of 1999 I took the flu vaccine for the first time in 30+ years. 7-10 days later I was diagnosed with pneumonia which progressed to AARDS. I was on the respirator for 6 days and then proceeded to a full recovery. Consequently I am afraid to take the flu vaccine this season. Should I be concerned that my illness was a result of the vaccine? Wendy Please Help.

Re: flu vaccine

Date: Oct 23 2000, 22:41

A week ago, my 43 year old perfectly healthy husband received a flu shot. Two days later, he began getting numb from his chest down and in his hands. It got worse over the next few days. It has been a little over a week now with little improvement. The doctors say it will probably go away, but if it doesn't he will be referred to a specialist. His reflexes respond fine, he can feel touch and has no breathing problems. He has never had a serious health problem before, so we know it is related to that flu shot. He has no allergy to eggs, and we are just at a loss. We are both so worried. He is still numb. His legs feel heavy and it is very tiring to walk. Because he still has a reflex reaction, the doctor had no explanation. My question is this, does anyone know if they syndrome can present itself in a patient even though the patient retains reflex abilities? And, does anyone know of any danger in the wait and see plan of action offer by our doctor? Your thoughts are appreciated. God Bless and thank you.

Re: flu vaccine

Re: Please Help.

Date: Oct 24 2000, 00:04

When I got GBS my symptoms were similar to your husband. I retained my reflexes. I too had a flu shot before my problems began. After my legs got that heavy feeling; the next thing was that I could barely walk at all. That is when my Dr. finally took a Spinal Tap and found out it was GBS. A high protein count in the Spinal Tap is what signifies GBS. I still feel that if the Spinal Tap was done sooner; my treatments with Plasma-Pheresis (blood exchange) would have begun sooner. All Neurologists agree on one thing and that is the sooner the treatment whatever it be; the better. My Doctor admitted that he had no idea of what I had; other than that it was the after effects of a flu shot. On my first visit to a Neurologist; he suggested the Spinal Tap to at least rule out GBS. But it was ruled in. Doing fine now. Hope you get some answers soon. In my opinion it is trouble to wait too long. Good Luck and I sure hope it isn't GBS.

For more examples demonstrating those groups having the vaccine as suffering the 'flu the worst, as well as many serious and lasting adverse effects from the vaccine, pop us an email. (We have a very large number of documented examples, including official studies and reviews of nursing home 'flu disasters.)

Chemicals Used In Military Operations During The Vietnam War
General use:
Insecticide, DDT - Pyrethrum aerosol, G-1152, 12-oz, can.*
Insecticide, Dichlorvos, 20% impregnated strips
Insecticide, Lindane, 1% dusting powder, 2-oz. can**
Insecticide, Pyrethrum, 0.6% aerosol, 12-oz. can
Insecticide, Pyrethrum, 0.4% solution, 1-gal. can
Repellent, Clothing and personal application, m 75% DEET, 6-oz. (aerosol can)
Repellent, Clothing and personal application, m 75% DEET, 2-oz. (plastic bottle)
Repellent, Clothing and personal application, m 75% DEET, ½-oz. (bottle, component of
        survival kit)
Rodenticide, Anticoagulant, Ready mixed bait, 5-lb can
Rodenticide, bait block, diphacin, 8-oz. block
Supervision Required:
Insecticide, Aluminum phosphide, tablets, can
Insecticide, Aluminum phosphide, pellets, flask
Insecticide, Baygon, 1% solution, 1-gal. can
Insecticide, Baygon, 2% bait, 5-lb. bottle
Insecticide, Carbaryl, 80% powder, 15-lb. pail
Insecticide, Carbaryl-DDT, Micronized dust, 1-gram***
Insecticide, Carbaryl-DDT, Micronized dust, 5-gram***
Insecticide, Carbaryl-DDT, Micronized dust, 13-gram***
Insecticide, Chlordane, 72% emulsifiable concentrate, 5-gal. pail
Insecticide, Chlordane, 5%-6% dust, 25-lb. pail
Insecticide, Diazinon, 0.5% solution, 1-gal. can
Insecticide, Diazinon, 48% emulsifiable concentrate, 1-gal. can
Insecticide, Dieldrin, 15% emulsifiable concentrate, 5-gal. pail
Insecticide, DDT, 25% emulsifiable concentrate, 5-gal. pail
*       For disinsectization of aircraft in compliance with Public Health Quarantine.
**      For use in control of body lice.
***     For disinsectization of aircraft in compliance with Agricultural Quarantine.
<http://www.gmasw.com/chemlist.doc>

Enter first column content here

Enter second column content here

Enter supporting content here

DISCLAIMER

Fun Graphix is a non gain, non profit group for sharing purposes only.

DO NOT contact the Owners or Members over copyright issues.
All shares are done under the FAIR USE Act with out any gain or profit
& therefore is not a crime .

No Members claim to have made any of the graphics that they send to this lis/websitet.
The graphics come from a wide variety of web sources & are therefore deemed to be public domain. As far as they are aware they are licensed for personal use only, & are by their respective artist. Any infringement of said copyright is non intentional.
The tubes/mists/graphix are for Non-Profit use ONLY any other use is prohibited.
All respected rights go back to the original creator

The webmistress supports Feel Free Graphix. You are more than welcome to right click on any graphix and "save as" name you decide and save to your computer.

Please spread the word of our Prisoners of War and our Missing in Action. There are STILL Americans who don't know anything about them! There are Americans who don't know the true meaning of POW/MIA! TEACH THEM. NEVER FORGOTTEN!!

Top List Please CLICK and offer us up a VOTE? THANK YOU!!

SiteRing by Bravenet.com

Powered by WebRing.

Agent Orange Veterans
Powered By Ringsurf

Please enjoy a visit to my other websites, jammed full of graphix all free for the taking!

POW/MIA Awareness
Powered By Ringsurf

Check out my iSOUND.COM listener profile