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CDC recommends all nursing homes implement core elements to improve antibiotic use

New recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise all nursing homes to improve antibiotic prescribing practices and reduce their inappropriate use to protect residents from the consequences of antibiotic-resistant infections, such as C. difficile.

To guide these improvements, CDC has released a new resource: Core Elements of Antibiotic Stewardship for Nursing Homes. The Core Elements for Nursing Homes expand upon CDC’s recommendation last year that all acute care hospitals implement an antibiotic stewardship program designed to optimize treatment of infections while reducing adverse events associated with antibiotic use.

Protecting nursing home residents

The Core Elements provide practical ways for nursing homes to initiate or expand antibiotic stewardship activities. The guide provides examples of how antibiotic use can be monitored and improved by nursing home leadership and staff. The companion checklist can be used to assess policies and practices already in place and to review progress in expanding stewardship activities on a regular basis. However, depending on resources, some facilities may need more time to implement all these important protections. Ultimately, nursing home antibiotic stewardship activities should, at a minimum, include the following:

Leadership commitment: Demonstrate support and commitment to safe and appropriate antibiotic use.

Accountability: Identify leaders who are responsible for promoting and overseeing antibiotic stewardship activities at the nursing home.

Drug expertise: Establish access to experts with experience or training in improving antibiotic use.

Action: Take at least one new action to improve the way antibiotics are used in the facility.
Tracking: Measure how antibiotics are used and the complications (e.g., C. difficile infections) from antibiotics in the facility.

Reporting: Share information with healthcare providers and staff about how antibiotics are used in the facility.

Education: Provide resources to healthcare providers, nursing staff, residents and families to learn about antibiotic resistance and opportunities for improving antibiotic use.

As part of the plan, within three years CDC will provide technical assistance to federal facilities (e.g., those operated by the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Indian Health Service) and other large health systems to scale up implementation and assess interventions to improve outpatient antibiotic prescribing, extend effective interventions to long-term care settings, and ensure long-term sustainability of antibiotic stewardship efforts.

New T&T Sports Minister promises athlete development

Trinidad and Tobago Government announces $1 million boost for athletes and community groups

New sports minister Darryl Smith has highlighted athlete development as the primary focus of both himself and the new Trinidad and Tobago government.

Last week, a People’s National Movement (PNM) coalition led by Dr Keith Rowley won 23 of the 41 seats in the National Assembly, ousting the coalition People’s Partnership that was led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the country’s first female prime minister.

Smith, a former national youth player, replaced former national player Brent Sancho as sports minister and outlined his plans in an interview on a T&T radio station.

“I don’t want my legacy to be about buildings. I want it to be about our athletes, not only those who are national athletes, but all the young people who would want to use sport as a social tool to improve their lives,” Smith said.

Focusing on his immediate environs, Smith promised to bring the work environment up to acceptable standards, even if it meant relocating the ministry.

Smith also promised to listen to the voice of stakeholders before making decisions, and to ensure the legacy of the country’s sporting personalities.

Cities join Miramar’s objections to oil exploration proposal in the Everglades

Florida Everglades

Lauderhill, Plantation and nine other Broward County cities have joined Miramar’s objections to a recent oil exploration proposal in the Everglades.

Miramar, which is the city that will be the most affected if the drilling took place, acted first and exhorted the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to deny the company permission to drill. Over the last few weeks, other cities in the region have followed suit. The County Commission, too, has officially recorded its opposition and will seek an amendment of state law to ensure that the project does not go through.

Eleven cities have all passed resolution against the Miami-based Kantor Real Estate’s plan, citing environmental and public safety concerns for these cities’ main water source.

State agency makes underage alcohol arrests during first college football season weekend

US Student allegedly raped by Jamaican Hotel bartender

As the 2015 college football season kicked off recently, college students and football fans around the state packed coolers, prepped grills and geared up to tailgate, a pre-game tradition that has become a part of the game.

“Our state has some of the best college football teams in the nation and football season is a time to come together and cheer on our favorite teams,” said DBPR Secretary Ken Lawson. “The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco is committed to keeping football season safe and fun for everyone by keeping alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of underage persons. ABT has a zero tolerance policy for underage drinking, especially at our Florida colleges and universities during football season.”

ABT began its enforcement initiatives this past weekend as the college football season kicked off around the state. ABT’s Bureau of Law Enforcement made 19 arrests at the University of Central Florida campus for possession of alcohol by underage persons, 16 arrests in the vicinity of the Florida State University campus for possession of alcohol by underage persons and five arrests at the University of Florida, four or which were for the possession of alcohol by underage persons. ABT will continue its enforcement efforts at the following schools around the state to ensure compliance with Florida Beverage Law:

Florida Atlantic University
Florida International University
Florida State University
University of Central Florida
University of Florida
University of Miami
University of South Florida

In addition to monitoring events for underage drinking, ABT’s game day enforcement operations are also focused on ensuring compliance at licensed establishments in the vicinity of college campuses, including proper identification and age verification of patrons when alcoholic beverages are sold.

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The Department licenses and regulates more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from hotels and restaurants, real estate agents and accountants to veterinarians, contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit www.myfloridalicense.com.

EDITORIAL: Do you know your religious rights at the workplace?

Workplace romances can be detrimental

The recent case of Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis refusing to fulfill her duties because of her religious beliefs draws attention to the often sore debate over religion at the workplace.

America’s multitude of faiths creates real problems for employers and workers. There are few workplaces where all workers belong to one religion. Some workers, like Adventists, won’t work from sundown Fridays to Saturdays. Muslims are reluctant to work in environments where alcohol is served. Some faiths want time off at specific times or days for religious observance, while others may want to display religious images at their workstations.

As the environment becomes more complex, some workers, fearful of losing their jobs, may feel they have no option but to sacrifice their religious convictions. However, under the Title VII of the federal Civil Rights Act, private sector workers – unlike elected public servant Davis – do have avenues to appeal.

Title VII prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of religion. Specifically, an employer may not “fail or refuse or hire or discharge any individual, or otherwise …discriminate against any individual with respect to his compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment, because of such individuals’…religion.” It also states it’s “an unlawful employment practice… for an employer not to make reasonable accommodations, short of undue hardship [carried by the company], for the religious practices of its employees.” If workers have strong reason to believe these rights are being discriminated against, they can report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Potential employees may also avoid disclosing their beliefs at a job interview for fear of losing the opportunity. But under Title VII, an employer is not permitted to directly or indirectly ask the applicant’s religious beliefs. For example, the interviewer is not allowed to ask “Does your religion prevent you from working on weekends?” Although, in reality a Rastafarian could be denied a job because the employer doesn’t like long dreadlocks; or a Muslim woman because the employer is wary of the hijab (headwear) she wore to the interview, such behavior counts as discrimination and the applicants have the right to appeal such actions.

But since the establishment of Title VII, workers and employers have experienced conflicts over two particular phrases in the Act: “reasonable accommodation” and “undue hardships.”

Today, religion at the workplace is far more diverse. Employers of large corporations could struggle to “reasonably” accommodate some religious customs. One common dilemma is the negotiating of weekend schedules, since many religions practice holy observance on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Some employers, especially in retail, will simply not schedule these workers on these days – a reasonable accommodation. But such scheduling may not always be enough. In one 2006 case, “Baker vs. Home Depot,” a store manager scheduled a worker attending Sunday church to work Sunday afternoons. But the worker refused on Sundays on religious grounds and was fired. The worker made a complaint to the EEOC, but the company won, as the court determined it was a reasonable accommodation to request the employee to work half-day Sundays.

There’s no question that religious diversity creates complex working dynamics. However, workers who want their religious beliefs respected at the workplace have the right for this to be done. Workers, including Caribbean immigrants, must know this. They shouldn’t hesitate to inform their employers of their religious beliefs during the employment process, or when they are employed. They should also be aware if reasonable accommodation is made for them, this shouldn’t cause undue hardships for the company and other employees. On the other hand, employers are obligated to try to make reasonable religious accommodations. Workers must also be assured, should conflicts arise over the recognition of their religious believes, that they always have recourse through the EEOC.

Jamaican senate to debate CCJ Bills

Leader of Government Business, A.J. Nicolson.

The Jamaica government says debate on the three bills allowing for the island to adopt the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the final appellate court will be debated in the Senate on October 16.

Leader of Government Business, A.J. Nicolson, said the deliberations are among the “most important and far-reaching” to be undertaken by the Senate.

The CCJ was established in 2001 to replace the London-based Privy Council as the region’s final court, but while many of the Caribbean countries have signed on to the Court’s Original jurisdiction, only Barbados, Guyana, Belize and Dominica are signatories to the Appellate Jurisdiction.

The CCJ also functions as an international tribunal interpreting the Treaty of Chaguaramas that established the 15-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) grouping.

Nicholson said that the debate is equal in importance to the Independence Debate in 1962, which dealt with the proposal for a new Constitution.

“The initiative has to do with the relocation of our final Court of Appeal, from an institution, which has served us since the year 1833 and it concerns the journey to fully “patriate” that third arm or branch of Government, known as the judiciary,” he told legislators.

Nicholson called on all legislators to participate in the debate and “vote at the appropriate and convenient time for the fulfillment of that desire and that requirement”.

“It must be the firm desire of every Senator to have his or her vote recorded in this historic Debate, which really is meant to serve as a platform concerning the character of Jamaica’s system of Government for the future,” Nicolson said.

The CCJ Bills were passed in the Lower House on May 12, with a 42 to 21 vote by all 63 members of the House.

Nicholson noted that the positive vote of at least 14 of the 21 members of the Senate was required for one of the constitutional amendment bills included in the trio of legislation to be passed.

The government said it hopes to get Opposition support for the  Act to Amend the Judicature (Appellate Jurisdiction) Act, which seeks to amend the Judicature (Appellate Jurisdiction) Act, to repeal provisions for appeals to the Privy Council, and exclude any appeals to the Privy Council instituted prior to implementation of the CCJ.

It is also seeking support for an Act to make provisions for the implementation of the agreement establishing the CCJ, as both a court of original jurisdiction to determine cases involving the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and International treaties, as well as a superior court of record with appellate jurisdiction; and,

The third bill seeks to amend the Constitution of Jamaica to repeal provisions relating to appeals to the Privy Council, and replace them with provisions establishing the CCJ as Jamaica’s final court, which requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate.

CNW90: Guyana’s VP Greenidge calls for greater Diaspora support

For a look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 14, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Guyanese Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, says more collaborations with the Diaspora are the new administration’s main priority. Speaking during a recent diplomatic visit to South Florida, Greenidge also encouraged the community to be more proactive as partners.

Speaking at the recent Florida Conference on Caribbean Issues, Guyanese Minister of Natural Resources, Robert Persaud, expressed confidence that the current border dispute with Venezuela will be resolved in Guyana’s favor, citing legal history on their side.

As part of their fundraising efforts to support medical travel for children, Barbados Young Achievers of South Florida will host their first Barbados Melting Pot, set for this Saturday, starting 4 pm at the Central Broward Regional Park, featuring performances from soca stars Peter Ram and Mikey Mercer.

The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association has thrown its unanimous support behind the FIFA presidential bid of former national player David Nakhid. Running on a reform platform, Nakhid will need support from 4 other national associations to become a candidate.

What’s trending:
New report says the Caribbean regions has achieved server key Millennium Development goals, including the reduction of poverty, hunger and infant mortality.

For more on what’s trending, follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Caribbean National Weekly, and on Twitter at National Weekly.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:
Mostly cloudy in Broward County with a high of 88 and a low of 77. For Miami-Dade, mostly cloudy with a high of 88 and a low of 77.
For more information on these and other stories, visit cnweeklynews.com.

Immigration Q&A: Change of status through marriage

Question: For an adjustment of status through marriage case, does it actually matter how long a couple has been dating prior to filling the petition?

Answer: For adjustment of status cases in the U.S. – theoretically and legally – no. However, the length of time you have been dating before marrying a U.S. citizen or resident helps the USCIS officer determine whether or not they believe the marriage is real.

For example, if you have been dating for four months, then you marry and file, as long as the case is filed properly, and if you have all the requisite marital documents at your interview and are able to answer the officer’s questions in a genuine way, then the four-month dating period should not be an issue. Contrast this with dating a year or more, but improperly filing the case and failing to provide the requisite marital documentation to the officer at the interview. This case would likely result in a couple being separated and questioned about the legitimacy of their marriage, as well as long delays in processing. It’s really all about how well the case is filed and how well the couple is prepared.

However, the length of dating time often has more importance for consular officers, when the foreign national spouse is processing abroad through a U.S. consulate, rather than adjusting status in the U.S. There is always a higher risk of denial for all marriage cases, especially those where the couple had not been dating long before marriage. And the tough reality is that a denial at a U.S. consulate can’t be appealed, so the best case must always be prepared and submitted to prove eligibility rather than to risk denial. Let us know if you’d like us to represent you in your residency case.

How to make the most of your grocery store’s produce aisle

“The seasonal nature of farmers markets doesn’t have to keep you from reaping the benefits of fresh and locally grown produce,” says registered dietitian Paul Kriegler, assistant program manager for nutrition and weight loss, Life Time – The Healthy Way of Life Company. “The average store carries more than 45,000 different foods, so it’s important to know what to buy and what to avoid.”

To eat as if the farmers market is still in session, keep these tips in mind on your next visit to the grocery store:

* Plan meals and menus for the week and make your shopping list accordingly. If you stick to your list, it will help you avoid impulse purchases.

* Keep kids involved. If your children loved visiting the farmers market and learning how to eat healthy, there’s no reason you can’t continue their education in the grocery store. Take them shopping with you and give them a small budget so they can pick their own produce. Encourage them to pick fruits and vegetables from every color of the rainbow.

* It’s not just folklore – if you shop while hungry, you’re more likely to make poor choices. “When you’re hungry, anything looks good, and junk looks even more appealing,” Kriegler cautions. “Have a healthful snack like a handful of nuts or a piece of fruit before you shop.”

* Your diet should consist of mostly fruits and vegetables, so make the produce aisle the first stop when you visit the grocery store. If you fill your cart with more produce, you’ll have less room for less healthful choices.

* Shop from the outer aisles, where you’re most likely to find whole, unprocessed foods – like fresh produce. Inner aisle have more processed foods.

* Don’t be afraid to try new things. As the seasons turn, new and unexpected items may appear in produce aisles. Varieties of squash begin appearing in September and staying through March, as well as turnips, rutabagas, carrots and other cool weather favorites. An online search can help you find new recipes for virtually any type of unfamiliar produce. Experimenting with new veggies and fruits can be exciting and nutritious!

* Take advantage of store resources. Many grocery stores now include signage in the produce aisle that tells you where different items originated, how you might use them, flavor and nutrition — even recipes. If your grocery store offers free recipe cards beside a new vegetable, give both a try.

* Whenever possible, buy organic. “I commonly hear the question, is organic really necessary,” Kriegler says. “Your first goal is to increase the amount of fruits and vegetables your family eats, but once you’re doing that it’s important to choose organic produce. It will help you avoid toxins, herbicides and pesticides in your food that could affect your metabolism and cause other health problems.”

* If you must buy prepackaged and labeled foods, read the ingredient list first. If it’s full of unrecognizable or unhealthy ingredients, put it back on the shelf and look for a better alternative.

Boosting citizenship at AILA Citizenship Day Drive

The South Florida Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), in partnership with the Haitian Lawyers Association, the NALEO Educational Fund, and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Miami, will be hosting a special citizenship drive. Held in Honor of Citizenship Day on September 17, this event seeks to encourage the Diaspora to become active American citizens, while providing legal and emotional support through the often intimidating process.

This special drive will provide free assistance to lawful permanent residents applying for citizenship. The event will be held on Saturday, September 19, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Miami, from 9 am to 12 pm.

To make this drive a success, the organization is also asking for local attorney and non-attorney volunteers to participate in this event. To join, non-volunteers must complete a short N-400 training program on September 14. The program is also recommended for attorney volunteers. Volunteers will also need to be on hand an hour before and an hour after to set up and dismantle the location.

Those interested in volunteering or finding out more information may contact the organization via email at soflailprobono@gmail.com.

Guyana’s VP Greenidge calls for greater Diaspora support

Carl Greenidge

Guyanese Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, says more collaborations with the Diaspora are the new administration’s main priority.

Speaking during a recent diplomatic visit to South Florida, Greenidge also encouraged the community to be more proactive as partners.

The one day conference in Miami, which was hosted by the Washington, DC based Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) and the Greater Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Harlem Company LLC, brought together Caribbean Diaspora community and business leaders along with US elected officials, business executives and members of the academic community and media for discussions on three current issues of concern to the Caribbean Region and its Diaspora.

Titled the “Florida Conference on Current Caribbean Issues: The Diaspora Discussion”, the event was a follow up to the issues identified earlier this year during Legislative Week in Washington, DC which need to be further addressed.

Ja’s new ambassador to US assumes duties in Washington

 

Jamaica’s new ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Ralph Thomas, has assumed duties in Washington, DC.  

Ambassador Thomas arrived in the US capital on September 4 and has already delivered accreditation letters to the US Department of State. He officially presents credentials to US President Barack Obama on September 17 and the next day, to the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), His Excellency Luis Almagro, as Jamaica’s Permanent Representative to the OAS.  

Appointed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator A.J. Nicholson on August 21, 2015 as Jamaica’s twelfth ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Thomas succeeds Professor Stephen Vasciannie, whose ambassadorial tour of duty in the United States concluded in June.

Until recently Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Thomas served in Beijing during a crucial period in Jamaica-China relations, especially in the economic development arena.  He focused on strengthening that relationship through the development of key areas of investment.

The former University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona School of Business and Management teaching fellow, has experience in multi-national banking and trade financing and had served as Vice President of the Bank of New York for twenty-two years.  

Jamaicans residing in the North-East United States have welcomed the new Ambassador and pledged to give him their full support as he represents the island’s interests.  The Embassy of Jamaica is planning a special reception to introduce the new Ambassador to the Jamaican community in the Washington area.  

Brian Lara appointed special envoy for TT

Former West Indies cricket great, Brian Lara has been appointed Special Envoy for Trinidad and Tobago.

A release from the Office of the Prime Minister in Trinidad and Tobago in a  release on Friday said Lara will travel to Dominica on Monday to meet with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.

While in Dominica, Lara will hold discussions with Skerrit, to determine how the twin island republic can further assist the island in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika.

On Friday new TT Prime Minister completed the swearing in of a 23 member Cabinet – smaller than the 33 member Cabinet of former Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissesser.

Rowley had criticized the size of the previous Cabinet as being too large and cost for the twin island nation.

The Caribbean – most popular tourist destination

The United Nations says the Caribbean continues to be among the most popular tourist destinations, despite global concerns about safety and security.  

According to figures released by the UN World Tourism ORganisation (UNWTO),Oceania joins the Caribbean in being the most popular regions.

The Madrid-based UNWTO said tourism rose in those regions by seven per cent last year, compared to Central and Eastern Europe and Central America, which rose to six per cent.

International tourism figures on a whole grew by four per cent in the first half of 2015, an increase of 21 million when compared to the same period last year, UNWTO said.

Besides safety and security concerns in some regions, UNWTO said the recovery of advanced economies and the slowdown of emerging ones have also affected tourism figures.

Lower oil prices and currency fluctuations, such as the weaker currency in the Euro area, have also played a part, UNWTO said.

“These results show that, despite increased volatility, tourism continues to consolidate the positive performance it has had over the last five years and to provide development and economic opportunities worldwide,” said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai.

CNW90: Hillary and Carly leading among Caribbean American voters

For a look at some of the top stories making the news today, September 11, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

A National Weekly Survey has found that Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Carly Fiorina are the preferred presidential candidates among party-registered Caribbean-American voters in South Florida. Clinton captures a whopping 69 % of democrats, while Fiorina has support from 27% of Caribbean American republicans.

The Broward Public School Board has rated Robert Runcie an effect superintendent at a recent meeting, citing his success in increasing the district’s state grade and getting approval for the recent $800 million bond. Some members however complained about communication issues with Runcie’s staff.

Music lovers in the Caribbean community are grieving the loss of music engineer and popular
figure, Hugh “Cuban” Palmer. A former engineer for Sly and Robbie, the Jamaican was a
beloved figure among the local music community. He leaves behind wife Rosemarie and children Dinakaye and Locksley.

In sports, the Miami Dolphins kick off this week, pinning their hopes this season on quarterback Ryan Tannehill and newly signed Jamaican-American defensive end, Ndamukong Suh. A Portland, Orland native, Suh was signed by the Dolphins earlier this year under a record breaking $114 million contract.

What’s trending:
Following People’s Partnership’s election loss this week, former Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar is challenging the result, citing the extended voting time as a potential bias
For more on what’s trending, follow us on Facebook and Instagram at Caribbean National Weekly, and on Twitter at National Weekly.

For Today’s Weather Forecast:
Scattered Thunderstorms in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 76. For Miami-Dade, scattered thunderstorms with a high of 89 and a low of 76.
For more information on these and other stories, visit cnweeklynews.com.

Floyd Mayweather retires after win against Andre Berto

Floyd Mayweather kneels after the final round against Andre Berto.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. signed off from professional boxing as he had planned on Saturday, going out unbeaten and on his own terms as ‘The Best Ever’ after improving his career record to 49-0.

After a stellar 19-year run that produced world titles in five weight divisions and earnings in excess of $800 million, Mayweather bade farewell to the ring with a clinical display to earn a unanimous decision over fellow American Andre Berto.

“I had a game plan from the very beginning,” Mayweather, 38, said of his career during a lengthy news conference after retaining his WBC and WBA welterweight titles in the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

“I always knew what I wanted to do — be outspoken, be one of a kind. To be in the sport for 19 years and to be world champion 18 years, I’ve had a remarkable career.

“If you put them (opponents) in front of me, we see what they can do. It’s all about that IQ. I’m 10 steps ahead of any fighter. I take whatever is your best attribute and take that away from you, make you do what you don’t want to do.”

Mayweather, who matched the 49-0 career record set by former heavyweight champion Rocky Marciano, is widely regarded as one of the best defensive practitioners of all time while his ability to out-think opponents and adjust strategy midway through fights is unparalleled among contemporary fighters.

What you need to know about candidiasis

 

Candidiasis also known as “thrush” is a surface infection of the mouth caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, which lives inside the mouth. It can affect the corners of the mouth, the insides of the cheeks, the tongue, palate and throat. Thrush is a common infection in babies. A newborn may acquire the Candida fungus during delivery, if its mother had an active vaginal yeast infection. Symptoms of thrush usually follow within 7 to 10 days after birth.

In older children or adults, episodes of thrush are triggered most frequently by diseases or drugs that affect the immune system, cancer chemotherapy, steroid therapy, or by treatment with antibiotics. Antibiotics trigger thrush by killing the mouth’s normal population of bacteria. Once these normal bacteria are gone, Candida fungi are free to multiply and grow without competition. People with dry mouth have less saliva and are prone to developing thrush.

Symptoms

The initial symptoms may include a bad taste in the mouth and decreased taste. Thrush causes curd like white patches inside the mouth, especially on the tongue, palate (roof of the mouth and/or back of the throat) and corners of the mouth. If you try to scrape off the whitish surface of a patch, you will usually find a red, inflamed area that may bleed slightly. There may also be cracked, red, moist areas of skin at the corners of the mouth.

Sometimes thrush patches are painful, but often they are not. Infants who do have painful patches may be fussy, irritable and feed poorly.

Diagnosis

Your dentist or physician usually diagnoses thrush by examining your mouth to look for white patches that scrape off with a tongue blade or gauze pad. If the diagnosis is in question, your doctor or dentist also may send a sample of these scrapings to a laboratory for testing. In certain cases, a biopsy is necessary. In this procedure, a small piece of skin is removed with a scalpel and examined in a laboratory.

In most patients, this is all that needs to be done for diagnosis. However, if you have frequent or persistent infections, your doctor or dentist may want to see if you have an undiagnosed medical illness, such as diabetes, cancer or HIV infection. In this case, blood tests or other types of diagnostic procedures may be necessary. Your doctor or dentist will ask about your history of these illnesses and about recent drug therapy.

Your doctor or dentist also will ask about your recent use of antibiotics or medications that suppress the immune system, such as steroids or cancer chemotherapy drugs. Your doctor or dentist also can determine if you are taking certain medicines that are associated with significant dry mouth.

Expected Duration

With proper medical treatment, most simple thrush infections can be cured in about 7 to 14 days.

Prevention

You can help to prevent thrush by using antibiotics only as prescribed by your doctor and by seeing your dentist promptly for any mouth irritation or soreness around dentures. To prevent thrush in newborns, a pregnant woman should be checked by her doctor whenever she develops any white, cheesy vaginal discharge.

In patients with HIV or others who are taking drugs that suppress the immune system, doctors may prescribe antifungal drugs, such as clotrimazole (Mycelex), as a long-term measure to prevent thrush. However, because there is some evidence that Candida fungi eventually become resistant to these drugs, this preventive use is still controversial.

Treatment

Doctors treat thrush with antifungal medications such as nystatin (Mycostatin, Nilstat), clotrimazole (Mycelex), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or fluconazole (Diflucan). For mild cases, a suspension of nystatin can be swished in the mouth and swallowed, or a clotrimazole lozenge can be dissolved in the mouth. For more severe cases, ketoconazole or fluconazole may be taken once a day for seven to 10 days. The corners of the mouth can be treated effectively with a nystatin ointment.

After successful treatment of thrush, your doctor may switch you from medicines that are suspected of causing significant dry mouth to medicines that are less drying. Only your doctor should change prescribed medicines that you are taking. Sometimes, medicines cannot be substituted for medical reasons. In this case, you should drink more water, and use mouth moisturizers and saliva replacements often.

When To Call A Professional

Call your doctor whenever curd-like white patches appear inside your mouth or in the mouth of your infant. Call your doctor immediately whenever any mouth irritation prevents your baby from feeding normally. Rarely, the fungus may affect tissue in the esophagus and cause difficulty swallowing. If this happens, you should notify your dentist or doctor. All patients with suppressed immune systems should be checked periodically for oral problems such as thrush.

Prognosis

In most otherwise healthy patients, a thrush infection that is treated properly goes away without permanently damaging the skin. The infection may not return as long as the patient remains healthy and well nourished. However, people with long-term illnesses or weakened immune systems may have frequent episodes of thrush. In some debilitated patients, the Candida fungus may even spread to the throat, causing Candida esophagitis, or to other parts of the body.

Dr Sharon Robinson DDS has offices at the Dental Place Cosmetix Spa located at Shop #5, Winchester Business Centre,15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct University of Technology, Jamaica School of Oral Health Sciences. Dr Robinson lecturer at the may be contacted at 630-4710 or visit the website www.dentalplace4u.com.

Trinidadian family sentenced to 418 years in prison

Shane Ramsundar (NYdailynews photo)

A Trinidadian couple and their daughter, accused of conning 19 Caribbean immigrants in the United States of more than US$1.8 million, have been sentenced to 418 years in prison.

In the sentence handed down last Wednesday, Shane Ramsundar, 52, his wife Gomatee Ramsundar, 48, and daughter Stantal, 23, were described by the judge as “the most despicable gang of criminals to ever sit in front of me”.

Shane Ramsundar received the maximum 235-year sentence.His wife was sentenced to 153 years and daughter 30 years.

The three were found guilty last November of grand larceny.

‘Substantial progress’ made in EU-Cuba talks

Christian Leffler

The head of the European Union’s (EU) delegation to Cuba, Christian Leffler, says there has been “substantial progress” in talks with Cuban authorities on normalising ties between the EU and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean country.

“There has been substantial progress, including in the areas of human rights, democracy and governance, and the remaining differences were narrowed even further,” Leffler said.

The EU suspended relations with Cuba in 2003 over a crackdown on journalists and activists, according to EUbusiness.

The EU began talks on restoring relations with Cuba in April 2014, aimed at persuading Havana to improve its human rights record.

Leffler said that it is “no secret” that the European view on human rights is not the same as the Cuban view on the issue, according to EUbusiness.

“So we have to find an area of understanding,” Leffler told reporters, adding that the talks “allowed for the mutual increase of understanding on both sides.”

He said this could smooth the talks at the next meeting in Brussels, Belguim in November.

The EU and Cuba have moved to accelerate the process since Havana and Washington announced a historic rapprochement in December and reopened embassies in July, EUbusiness said.

It said Brussels and Havana have now set themselves a deadline of December 31.

Cuba wants the EU to scrap its nearly 20-year “common position,” which makes restoring European ties with the island contingent on democratic reforms, said EUbusiness, adding that the 28-member bloc is pressing Cuba to sign a slate of international human rights treaties.

Robert Runcie rated an effective superintendent

Robert Runcie

The Broward Public School Board has rated Robert Runcie an effective superintendent at a recent meeting, citing his success in increasing the district’s state grade and getting approval for the recent $800 million bond.

Overall, board members say Runcie has done a good job improving student achievement, raising the district’s state-issued grade from a C to a B. They praised his ability to get an $800 million bond passed in November, and they say the district has started several innovative new programs and is using social media well to communicate what’s happening.

Some members however, complained about communication issues with Runcie’s staff.

Honoring “Cannonball” Adderley

The Old Dillard Museum will celebrate the birthday of Fort Lauderdale’s greatest band director, the late great saxophonist Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, at a special concert featuring his famed nephew Nat Adderley, Jr. – a nationally renowned jazz pianist and former music director for Luther Vandross.

The concert is scheduled for 3 p.m. on September 20, at the Dillard Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale.

This event marks the final concert in the 2015 Old Dillard Museum Cannonball Jazz Series, which began in 2009 to honor Julian “Cannonball” Adderley’s connection to the Broward County Public School System and Dillard High School. Adderley taught music and directed the school band at the historic Dillard High School site at 1009 NW 4th Street in Fort Lauderdale between 1948 and 1950, and later taught at the current Dillard High School between 1953 and 1956.

In honor of his legacy, the success of the famed music program also continues through the Dillard Center for the Arts (DCA) Jazz Band. Since 2004, Christopher Dorsey has been building the Jazz Program. The band’s skill, style and swing has earned them first place at Essentially Ellington in 2011 and 2012 and First Place at Swing Central in 2010, 2011 and 2012. DCA Jazz Ensemble is consistently represented in prestigious jazz ensembles at the district, state and national level. Student musicians have also been selected into the All County Honor Jazz Bands, The Florida All State Honor Bands, The Grammy Band, and the Monterrey Jazz Festival’s Next Generation Band.

The event also marks a special and personal tribute to his uncle for Nat Adderley Jr., who recorded his first song, “I’m on My Way,” with Uncle Cannonball on the 1967 album “Why Am I Treated So Bad!” by the Cannonball Adderley Quintet when the young Nat Adderley was only 11 years old. Following an esteemed career, Adderley Jr. has returned to his jazz roots, performing his own works, as well as tributes to both his father Nat Adderley Sr. and his uncle.

Serena Williams loses US Open semifinals match

Serena Williams (left), Roberta Vinci (right).

On Friday, Serena Willaims was beaten by unseeded Italian Roberta Vinci 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the semifinals of the US Open, ending her calendar Grand Slam Bid.

Entering Friday, Williams had never dropped a set against Vinci.

Guyana gun amnesty gets early positive results

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan

Days into Guyana’s one-month gun amnesty, officials report an estimated 1,000 rounds of ammunition have been turned in to authorities. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, says the number is a positive start.

“I am pleased that the first day was wonderful. To get a 1,000 rounds of ammunition is worth the whole month, quite frankly, and we must be proud of the fact that it is working,” he said.

The gun amnesty began on September 1 and will continue for the entire month, giving residents the opportunity to turn in illegal weapons and ammunition without fear of facing prosecution.

Ramjattan has urged those still with illegal arms to turn them in, as he warns that offenders will not get off this easy once October rolls around.

“I am promising that if you don’t bring them in, in this month, and we catch you, we are going to ensure that you don’t get bail,” he warned, adding that police were getting tip-offs about people who had illegal weapons.

Remembering the Champion Sound Man

Hugh Cuban Palmer

Following the loss of one of our community’s most beloved artists, Adrian Allen for The National Weekly remembers the wonderful legacy of Hugh “Cuban” Palmer.

When you enter any live event here in South Florida, you will hear the trumping sounds of artists performing on stage. These sounds are usually mixed and engineered by a man we know as Hugh Augustus “Cuban” Palmer. Born and raised in Jamaica, Palmer was his mother’s first child and his father’s third child. Palmer attended St. Andrew Technical high School and after graduating started working with his sister at an auto shop. He then married Rosemarie Blake who brought into this world two beautiful children Dinakaye Orlena and Locksley Palmer. Hugh went on to start his musical engineering career at Music Works.

The Grammy award winner, teacher, and father to many had an ear like no other. Individuals within the entertainment business leaned on his creative genius to deliver the best results for great sound we all have enjoyed throughout the years. Whether at a live event or on a mixed and mastered record, Palmer took his work very seriously and had a compassionate presence towards others, always willing to help solve problems and inspire individuals around him.

Within the South Florida community, Palmer worked closely with artists such as The Gardens (formerly known as Top Hop) Shomax, Bunny Gemini (Record Factory label), Garfield of Nature Way Entertainment, Fattis (Exterminator label), Sly and Robbie’s engineer at Sonic Sounds, and Danny Breakenridge, just to name a few. Palmer also launched his own label Zee Pee Records with his partner Vahn Zelly Facey.

Hugh Augustus Palmer’s life will be remembered and celebrated on September 16th at the Baird-Case Funeral Home Chapel. Organizers are asking to wear bright colors, no black please, in honor of this true music man.

Thank you Palmer for making everything sound so much better!

West Indies Cricket Board urged to come clean on sacking of captain

Denesh Ramdin

Former West Indies manager Omar Khan has called on the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to come clean on the sacking of Denesh Ramdin as captain of the regional test side.

Ramdin was axed as Test captain after just 15 months in charge and replaced by One-Day skipper Jason Holder.

A WICB statement said Holder’s appointment had been recommended by the Clive Lloyd-chaired selection panel and “endorsed unanimously” by the directors.

However Khan has pointed to comments in the media by director Azim Bassarath who says he was unaware of the decision and is against it.

“The WICB sends out a press release stating that the directors of the board unanimously agreed to remove Ramdin based on a recommendation from the selectors,” said Khan.

“Yet one of the directors Azim Bassarath comes out and says that he knew nothing of this and is not supporting the move. At the moment people are trying to fool the people of the Caribbean and it is about time someone speaks the truth.”

Meanwhile, Khan is suggesting that Ramdin may have been fired as Windies captain because of his decision to resign from the West Indies Players Association (WIPA).

The Trinidadian wicket-keeper batsman was one of the players who aborted the West Indies tour of India last October over a payment structure dispute between WIPA and the WICB.

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