[Comparative study of measuring body temperature by mercury and digital thermometer]

Mercury is a dangerous substance for human health and mercury thermometers are major pollutant for environment. Using less dangerous and less expensive devices like digital thermometer can be an alternative for mercury thermometers. The aim of this study was to compare the body temperature measurement by mercury and digital thermometer. In this descriptive- analytical study, 542 patients [331 Female and 211 Males] were selected through convenience sampling. Data was gathered by demographic information form. Body temperature was measured simultaneously by digital and mercury thermometer while each thermometer was placed axillary, and after 5 minutes they were read by a nurse. The mean temperature measured by mercury and digital thermometer was 36.48 +/- 0.84 and 36.51 +/- 0.87, respectively. There was no statistical significant difference between measurements by mercury and digital thermometer. For detecting fever, digital thermometer had 85.4% and 95.7% sensitivity and specificity respectively. Positive and negative predictive value for digital thermometer were 81.1% and 96.8% respectively. Regarding low sensitivity of digital thermometer, it can be concluded that mercury thermometer is still suitable device to detect fever

Adverse events following measles and rubella immunization campaign in shahrekord, iran; 2003-2004

To report on the adverse events following the administration of Measles and Rubella [MR] vaccine during an immunization campaign in Shaharekord, Iran. Prospective study conducted between December 2003 and January 2004. Nurseries, primary schools, high schools and universities in Shahrekord, Southwest of Iran, Four thousand children and students from the above institutions were randomly selected and recruited. They were followed up for one month after vaccination for any adverse events. Data collected using a questionnaire and physical examination were analyzed using SPSS 11 software. Adverse events following MR vaccine administration. The overall incidence rate of adverse events was 25.4%. Lymphadenopathy [8.7%], fever [8.3%] and sore throat [7.3%] were the most prevalent complications. Incidence of lymphadenopathy and arthralgia was higher in males [p < 0.01, p < 0.02 respectively], whereas myalgia was more common in females [p < 0.002]. Lymphadenopathy was less common in the older age groups. Fever frequency was higher in the 5-10 and 21-25 age groups [p < 0.001]. Myalgia and arthralgia was seen with higher frequency in the 11-15 and 16-20 age groups [p < 0.001]. Skin rash was more common in the 5-10 and 11-15 age groups [p < 0.001]. Large scale interventions such as this vaccination campaign in a population revealed adverse events, but the frequency of serious adverse events with MR vaccine was low. Therefore, the benefit to risk ratio of such a campaign is favorable and such programs can be undertaken safely