Distributed by e-mail May 14, 2014
This update provides information on the following:
- Update on MERS cases in the Middle East and other parts of the world
- New naloxone program in London to prevent overdose deaths
1. More MERS cases in Middle East and elsewhere
Since April 2014, there has been an increase in reported cases of human infection with Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) with notable spread from the Middle East to Europe, North Africa, Asia and the United States. Thus far, all cases have been linked to countries in the Arabian Peninsula. There have been several outbreaks in hospitals due to breaches in infection prevention and control measures; WHO states that as many as 75% of recent cases are secondary. Therefore, healthcare workers in Ontario ought to remain vigilant for MERS-CoV and consider MERS-CoV infection in persons with respiratory illness that meet the case definitions outlined in the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's Guidance for Health Workers and Health Sector Employers on MERS-CoV (http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/guidance.aspx).
The recent increase in cases may be related to increased testing for the virus, and the risk in Ontario remains low. However, health care providers are nonetheless reminded of the importance to be prepared to apply enhanced infection prevention and control measures.
2. Naloxone program to prevent overdose deaths
Rates of opioid use in Middlesex-London are substantially higher than the Ontario average. According to the Chief Coroner's data, 41 people in London and Middlesex County died of prescription opioid overdoses in 2012, more than triple the figure from 2011, and double the provincial rate.
In response, the Middlesex-London Health Unit, Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, London InterCommunity Health Centre and the London Area Network of Substance Users have partnered to develop a new program to make naloxone available to opioid users. The partnership will provide training and compact overdose prevention kits containing two doses of naloxone to those at risk of opioid overdose. Education in basic lifesaving skills, how to administer naloxone, and the need to call 911 are also components of the training.
Community naloxone distribution has been a central component of opioid overdose prevention programs in many Ontario communities and around the world, saving the lives of thousands of opioid overdose victims. Training sessions will begin next month.