Pago8
The INDEPENDENT, July 17, 2003
m ji.wwww i i . i . i . i . i i i . i i i . ^ WWWWW.1 ».W W W
w i w . i . i . i . i . i
w w w w b
,» i . w , i . i i ,> i i i i m w w i i w w m
u
i > 11111 m
i 1 m m
i . i
i n
iiHrum v f n i m
Health Notes
..................... ..................■........................................................................
ByAudeen Wagner
Swimming information:
The clinic has been seeing a number of
young patients with “swimmer’s ear.” Here
are some pointers from Providence Family
Medicine-Vernonia, for prevention and
treatment:
Soon after going swimming, you can
treat ears with equal parts of white vinegar
and distilled water—this helps maintain an
acid balance in the outer ear and, thus, prevents the uncomfort
able infection. Just put three to four drops in each ear. If swim
mer’s ear is suspected, it is necessary to make an appointment
and have it diagnosed and treated with ear drops.
Also regarding swimming: Those instructions that your grand
mother gave you about not eating before swimming? It’s not just
an “old wive’s tale," it’s true! Laura Nichols, P.A,. says, “Allow two
hours after eating before going swimming, to prevent potentially
dangerous cramps in the cold water.”
Sports and School Physicals:
It is that time again! The clinic hopes that families will get this
important visit out of the way early, to avoid the rush just before
school starts. Call the clinic for more information.
Mammovan visit:
Next opportunity for a mammogram in Vernonia is August 20.
Call the clinic, 429-9191, for your appointment.
“Beyond Words”art exhibit slated
Northwest women artists of
The Portland Artists Group will
present their premier collective
exhibit “Beyond Words" August
5-30 at the Columbia Center for
the Arts in St. Helens. This
mixed-media exhibit will show
case altered books, fabric art,
acrylics, mixed-media collage
and assemblage.
The public is invited to an
artists’ reception Thursday, Au
gust 7 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Jo
Reimer will present a talk and
slide show on altered books at
7:00 p.m. in the Columbia Cen
ter Auditorium.
The Portland Artists Group is
a diverse group of Northwest
women artists whose interest in
mixed-media art has led them to
establish a supportive commu
nity in which to explore and en
courage both art and education.
“ Beyond Words" is being
presented as a part of the Liter
ary Arts Series. The Columbia
Center is located at 375 S. 18th
St., St. Helens.
West Nile Virus is not easily contracted
The likelihood of contracting vere symptoms can include
West Nile Virus is very low, but high fever, headache, neck
publicity surrounding the virus stiffness, stupor, disorientation,
has many people seeking more coma, tremors, convulsions,
information about the symp muscle weakness, vision loss,
numbness and paralysis. Per
toms.
Most cases of infection by sons with severe symptoms of
the mosquito-borne virus result West Nile Virus should seek
in no symptoms or mild, flu-like medical attention immediately.
symptoms. In rare cases, the There is no specific treatment
virus can cause inflammation of for the virus. In severe cases,
the brain (encephalitis), which supportive treatment may in
intravenous
fluids,
interferes with brain and spinal clude
cord functions and can result in breathing help and nursing
care.
death.
The virus has been found in
The incidence and severity
West Asia, the Mediterranean, of West Nile Virus in the U.S.
Africa, and the Middle East. It has varied greatly: In 1999, 62
was first identified in the United cases of West Nile Virus were
States in New York City, in connected with seven deaths in
1999. The virus has not yet the New York area. In 2000, 21
been found in Oregon, though cases were diagnosed, result
public health officials expect it ing in two deaths and, in 2001,
to arrive this year. Washington there were 66 cases with nine
and California have each re deaths. As the virus spread
ported at least one case.
throughout the country, more
West Nile Virus is transmit than 400 cases and 263 deaths
ted to humans from mosquitoes were reported in 2002. As of
that become infected by feed July 11, the Center for Disease
ing on birds that are infected Control (CDC) has reported
with the virus.
three cases for 2003.
Most infections develop 3 to
The key to prevention of the
14 days after being bitten by an West Nile Virus is to reduce or
infected mosquito. Mild infec eliminate contact with mosqui
tions include fever and flu-like toes, which are most active
symptoms and generally do not from dusk to dawn and from
require medical attention. Se April through October. Methods
Another Parade picture from July 4, 2003
for reducing contact include the
following:
• Eliminate standing water in
tires, buckets, and tree stumps.
• Replace water weekly in
outdoor containers, including
bird baths.
• Stock mosquito-eating fish
in ponds and water troughs.
• Maintain screens on win
dows and doors.
• Wear long sleeves and
long pants when mosquitos are
out.
• Use an insect repellent with
DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-tolu-
amide).
The likelihood of being in
fected is still very low, accord
ing to the Oregon Department
of Human Services. Even in ar
eas where mosquitoes carry
the virus, fewer than one per
cent are infected, and fewer
than one percent of people be
come severely ill when bitten
by an infected mosquito.
DISCOVERY TOYS
“Your Whole C hild is O ur Whole Business“
Products & Business Opportunities
Supporting Healthy Growth and
Development o f Children
and their Families
• Toys, Books, Puzzles and Software
for all ages
• Offering Child and Specialist
Tested Educational Products
• Risk Free Guarantee, and the Best
Warranty in tha Industry
• Convenient Shopping Options:
Online, Catalog or Hold a Party
• Earn Free Toys by Hosting a Party
and/or Referring Customers
• New Sales and Specials Every
Month
• Teacher and Daycare Discounts
Camrin Eyrrick
Educational Consultant
Visit my website:
www.discoverytoyslink.com/letsgoplay
For Free Catalog, Call (503) 429-0470
The Health
it - Terry’s Gym
* * NOTICE TO ALL AGES * *
or a healthier lifestyle...
'Hfc Can Jiefal
sugarfree - [ow carb - diabetic Jnendiy
Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6
51606 Columbia River Hwy.
Scappoose (503) 543-2227
-How Hadj ^Wo’di.
—.............. ♦ ------------------------
M A R K E T
Tired? Depressed? No Strength? No Energy?
Overweight? Frequently (II? Aches & Pains?
If any or all of the above fits you, you need help. Poor nutrition and lack
of exercise may jeopardize your very life. High cholesterol, hardening
of arteries, stiff joints, arthritis, heart disease, and many other health
concerns may result from poor living and eating habits.
Add years to your life and life to your years!
Do s o m e th in g good for y o u rs e lf - jo in a h e a lth
club! Your h e a lth should m a tte r m o st!
Call Today: 503-429-0501