Synopsis for December 10, 2004

The MMWR is embargoed until Thursday, 12 PM EDT.

1. Fall-Related Injuries During the Holiday Season ― United States, 2000-2003
2. Fatal and Nonfatal Occupational Injuries Involving Wood Chippers ― United States, 1992-2002
3. Salmonella Serotype Typhimurium Outbreak Associated with Commercially Processed Egg Salad ― Oregon, 2003
4. Tuberculosis Outbreak in a Low-Incidence State ― Indiana, 2001-2004

Fall-Related Injuries During the Holiday Season ― United States, 2000-2003

The holidays can be enjoyed safely by taking some precautions when decorating to avoid falls. Fall prevention strategies should focus on raising awareness about seasonal fall hazards, using ladders safely, and using stable step stools rather than furniture when arranging holiday decorations.

The holiday season, November 1st to January 31st, can bring with it an increased risk of injuries from falls, as people use ladders, stools and other furniture to hang lights, ornaments and other decorations. About 5,800 people, two to three every hour, were treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries sustained while decorating during each of the 2000, 2001 and 2002 holiday seasons. Men were more likely than women to be injured (58 percent vs. 42 percent). Holiday fall prevention strategies should focus on raising awareness about seasonal fall hazards, using ladders safely, and using stable step stools rather than furniture when arranging holiday decorations.

Fact Sheet: Fall-Related Injuries During the Holiday Season -- United States, 2000-2003

Fatal and Nonfatal Occupational Injuries Involving Wood Chippers ― United States, 1992-2002

Wood chippers used in storm clean-up can cause serious and fatal injuries, so it is essential that proper precautions for operators be followed. These include educating operators about safety, such as keeping hands and feet away from the feed chute and keeping the area around the chipper clear of tripping hazards, as well as use of personal protective equipment.

"Mobile wood chippers of the type used extensively to dispose of tree debris after the devastating 2004 hurricanes, among other widespread applications in landscaping and storm clean-up, can be very dangerous. Over the past 11 years, 57 workers have been killed while operating wood chippers, and more than 2,000 workers have suffered serious injuries, including amputations. It is critical that workers and other users receive training on safe operation, wear personal protective equipment, keeping their hands and feet away from the feed chute. The chipper should also be inspected daily and the area around the chipper kept clear of tripping hazards."

Salmonella Serotype Typhimurium Outbreak Associated with Commercially Processed Egg Salad ― Oregon, 2003

Improperly cooked or handled eggs, even commercially produced, can transmit Salmonella. This is an example of how routine public health surveillance for foodborne illness contributes to the integrity of the food supply and limits the overall impact of adulterated food products.

An outbreak of salmonellosis was caused by contaminated, commercial egg salad sold in grocery store delis. The exact mechanism of contamination was not discovered. Even commercially produced shell egg products can occasionally transmit Salmonella if eggs are inadequately cooked or improperly handled. Public health departments should continue to monitor reports of salmonella infection, conduct timely investigation of apparent clusters, and remain vigilant for possible raw or undercooked egg exposure. Consumers should recognize this as an example of the role of routine public health surveillance in maintenance of the integrity of the food supply and be reminded that eggs require thorough cooking.

Tuberculosis Outbreak in a Low-Incidence State ― Indiana, 2001-2004

CDC today released preliminary findings from a retrospective investigation of an ongoing tuberculosis (TB) outbreak in Allen County, Indiana. From January 2001 through June 2004, 59 cases of TB disease were reported in Allen County.

For the 25 cases believed to be linked, more than 500 contacts have been investigated to date. Eighty-five contacts were recommended for latent TB infection (LTBI) treatment. Only 49 started therapy, however, and 12 did not complete treatment. Two patients who did not complete LTBI treatment and one person who refused treatment developed TB disease. These three people were likely sources of infection for 16 persons who subsequently developed TB disease. Authors note that outbreak control requires thorough contact investigation, successful diagnosis and treatment of persons with TB disease or LTBI, education of health care workers and the community, and directly observed therapy for LTBI patients at risk of developing TB disease. CDC and Allen County are continuing to monitor this outbreak and implement changes in the county TB program to better address TB control.

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This page last reviewed December 10, 2004
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