MMWR

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report

Infant Deaths Associated with Cough and Cold Medications – United States, 2005

PRESS CONTACT: CDC - Division of Media Relations
(404) 639-3286

Cough and cold medicines can be harmful and should be used with caution in children under 2 years of age. Cough and cold medicines can be harmful and should be used with caution in children under 2 years of age. Although it is very rare, we identified three infants who died from the toxic effects of cough and cold medicines in 2005. In addition, in 2004 and 2005, over 1,500 children less than 2 years old were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for adverse events from cough and cold medicines. While these drugs are effective in older children and adults, there is little evidence these drugs help in children under 2 years old. Parents should always consult a healthcare provider before giving cough or cold medicine to kids under 2 years old. Healthcare providers should use caution when giving cough and cold medicines to children under 2 years old.

National and State Medical Expenditures and Lost Earnings Attributable to Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Conditions – United States

PRESS CONTACT: CDC - National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
(770) 488-5131

In 2003, arthritis and other rheumatic conditions (AORC) cost the United States $127.8 billion ($80.8 billion in medical care expenditures and $47.0 billion in lost earnings) or 1.2 percent of the Gross Domestic Product, which is equal to a chronic, small recession. In 2003, arthritis and other rheumatic conditions (AORC) cost the United States $127.8 billion ($80.8 billion in medical care expenditures and $47.0 billion in lost earnings), up from $86.2 billion in 1997. The rise was due to both aging of the population (predominantly in the ages 45-64 years cohort) and the increased rate of disease among adults aged greater than 50. Total costs attributable to AORC in the states ranged from $225.5 million in the District of Columbia to $12.1 billion in California. Increasing physical activity, maintaining healthy weight, and expanding the use of self-management education among persons with AORC may help slow the rise in these costs and improve quality of life of persons with AORC.

Suicide Trends and Characteristics among the Guarani Kaiowa and Nandeva – Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazill, 2000-2005

PRESS CONTACT: CDC - Division of Media Relations
(404) 639-3286

No Summary Available

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES