A LATE SPRING

The cold April including snow that we had in April has caused tree pollination to be delayed as well as grass and possibly even weed pollination. We continue to monitor our pollen counts during the week and they are available on our website at www. martindubravec.yourmd.com.

THE CRISIS OF VENOM ALLERGY

Due to a variety of unpleasant circumstances, the supply of serum for venom allergy shots is now limited. This is having a significant ripple effect throughout North America. Last year, one of the leading worldwide suppliers of venom allergy products chose to stop sales to the United States. Some have blamed this on over regulation by the FDA.

Therefore, only one company is producing the serum for venom allergy patients.

This has caused the manufacturer to significantly increase the price for venom allergy serum. Furthermore, problems could arise with regard to supply. This certainly occurred late last year and early this year. At times, we were uncertain as to whether or not we would even be able to provide the serum.

With the marked rise in the cost of venom allergy serum, the question remains whether or not it is a viable option for us to provide this in our office. At this time, we will continue to provide this serum.

Over the years, we have seen a decrease in the number of companies that produce medications and products in the health care market. The lack of competition is concerning and dangerous, especially if the manufacturer has a problem in its manufacturing processes. There are no good answers to this problem other than increasing the number of companies that supply a certain product and increasing competition to help lower the overall cost. We will keep our patients notified with regard to this very important issue.

NEW DOSING FOR INFANTS WITH LIFE THREATENING ALLERGIES

Patients with life threatening allergies such as food allergies or bee stings allergies are typically prescribed epinephrine. This can include infants. A new dose of injectable epinephrine is now available for infants under 30 lbs. Although other doses of epinephrine could certainly be used, a lower dose would help these young infants have less symptoms should they need epinephrine. The dose is 0.1 ml of epinephrine.

MICHIGAN ALLERGY AND ASTHMA SOCIETY

June marks the first month that I am president of the Michigan Allergy and Asthma Society. This organization represents allergist statewide and is a forum for allergist to meet periodically and discuss issues with regard to patient care. The most important mission of the Michigan Allergy and Asthma Society is to improve the lives of our patients with allergies. Although this does take time away from the office, participation in the Michigan Allergy and Asthma Society will help Dr.Dubravec advance patient care issues that he feels will help our patients.

AROUND THE MITCHELL HOUSE

The historic museum located across the street from the Mitchell House will be undergoing another phase of major restoration this year. Most notably, the roof of the museum building will be restored to its former glory with slate. Over $140,000 has been pledged by generous individuals as well as organizations in the community for this landmark building. Only 10% of the Carnegie library buildings nationwide still remain. Our building is especially unique in its shape and beautiful dome which underwent a restoration just a few years ago. Completion of this project insures the stability and weather proof nature of the roof for many years to come. A big thanks to Amy Schmid, president of the Wexford County Historical Society, and Gwen Dubravec, director of the Cadillac Preservation Guild and historical society board member, for their tireless efforts to raise funds for this project.