Cuba ends 2009 with the second lowest child mortality rate in the Americas

HAVANA – Cuba ended 2009 with 4.8 infant mortality rate per 1000 live births, the second lowest child mortality in the Americas, amid a pandemic scourge, caused by the Influenza A (H1N1) virus virus.

Such result is backed up by the efficient work of the health system and the political will of the Cuban administration, noted Granma daily.

US manufacturer recalls H1N1 vaccines

An estimated 800,000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine for children have been recalled because they lost their potency, the US officials say.

US manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur recalled several vaccine lots after stability tests revealed that the pediatric syringes had lost their potency after being shipped.

The doses were for children between aged between 6 to 35 months old, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported.

There were no safety concerns, the CDC emphasized, as all the doses passed tests for purity and safety.

Some Reports from the Congressional Research Service

“Mexico’s Drug-Related Violence,” May 27, 2009.

“The 2009 Influenza A(H1N1) ‘Swine Flu’ Outbreak: U.S. Responses to Global Human Cases,” May 26, 2009.

“The Cost of Iraq, Afghanistan, and Other Global War on Terror Operations Since 9/11,” updated May 15, 2009.

“USAID’s Office of Transition Initiatives After 15 Years: Issues for Congress,” May 27, 2009.

“Airport Improvement Program (AIP): Reauthorization Issues for Congress,” May 29, 2009.

“Identity Theft: Trends and Issues,” May 27, 2009.

“The State Secrets Privilege and Other Limits on Litigation Involving Classified Information” (pdf), May 28, 2009.

“Major U.S. Arms Sales and Grants to Pakistan Since 2001″ (fact sheet), updated June 3, 2009.

“Political Turmoil in Thailand and U.S. Interests,” May 26, 2009.

“The 2009 Influenza A(H1N1) ‘Swine Flu’ Outbreak: An Overview,” May 20, 2009.

“Defense: FY2010 Authorization and Appropriations,” May 8, 2009.

“Medical Marijuana: Review and Analysis of Federal and State Policies,” March 31, 2009.