The art of side-stepping the issue...

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<TABLE border=0 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR>Important to seek medical advice on Influenza A
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<!-- START OF : div id="storytext"--><!-- more than 4 paragraphs -->WE REFER to last Wednesday's letter by Mr Richard Seah, 'Explain side effects of anti-viral medication in flu booklet'.
The Frequently Asked Questions On Influenza A (H1N1-2009) booklet published by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) aims to provide key information to commonly asked questions about the virus, prevention, protection and care.
The booklet mentioned that Tamiflu or Relenza are anti-viral drugs that can be used to treat Influenza A (H1N1-2009), as well as the possi-bility of side effects related to the use of Tamiflu.
It is hence highlighted in the booklet that it is important to see a doctor early and not self-medicate, as doctors will exercise clinical judgment in prescribing anti-viral drugs on a case-by-case basis. Doctors will take into account patients' risk of developing influenza-related complications, prevalence of infection in the community and the risks and benefits of treatment.
More detailed information is available through the Health Ministry hotline on 1800-333-9999, HPB's HealthLine on 1800-223-1313 or HPB's website www.hpb.gov.sg
We thank Mr Seah for his feedback. We would like to highlight again that it is vital to see a doctor early if you are unwell as clinical advice and judgment are essential to treat H1N1.
Dr K. Vijaya
Director, Corporate Marketing & Communications Division
Health Promotion Board

 

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<TABLE id=story_comments border=0 cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR id=comments_body><TD><TABLE border=0 cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=heading>Latest comments</TD></TR><TR><TD id=messageDisplayRegion width="100%"><TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%" cellSpacing=2 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: top" align=left><TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%" cellSpacing=2 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: top" align=left><TABLE style="WIDTH: 100%" class=Post cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: top" align=left>The art of side-stepping the issue...

Just because it is "important" to consult a doctor, the public need not be informed about what the possible side effects of flu drugs and vaccinations might be? How many doctors actually explain the full side effects of the drugs that they prescribe?

In the case of Tamiflu, the possible side effects include effects on mood and bahaviour, which are not the normal sort of side effects such as vomiting, rashes etc. How many people who have nightmares, exhibit bizarre behaviour pr experience depression and suicidal tendencies, etc would actually this with the drug and report to their doctors again regarding side effects?

This is yet another example of the government wanting us all to be ignorant and compliant citizens, just accept what the authorities (doctors) say, without finding out the facts for ourselves and participating in the decision-making process.
</TD></TR><TR><TD style="VERTICAL-ALIGN: top" align=left>Posted by: richardseahss at Mon Aug 10 06:59:56 SGT 2009
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