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Stalk antibodies provide flu protection in humans

A study published in Nature Medicine finds that targeting the stalk of the flu virus provides protection against infection. Researchers analyzed naturally occurring influenza cases and found that individuals with higher levels of stalk antibodies had a reduced risk of getting sick, correlating with a 42% reduction in influenza infection.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 3, 2019

New single vaccination approach to killer diseases

Scientists have developed a new single vaccination approach that simultaneously protects against both influenza and pneumococcal infections, overcoming the limitations of current vaccines. The approach combines vaccines targeting different components of the virus and bacteria, inducing enhanced cross-protective immunity.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Microbiology·DateMay 20, 2019

Lifetime flu vaccine?

A new vaccine approach could protect against pandemic flu by teaching the immune system to recognize the shared 'cone' portion of the flu virus, rather than just the seasonal 'scoop'. Researchers have shown early promising results in lab animals.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 26, 2019

Vaccine report calls for innovative transformation strategies to increase influenza immunization rates in underserved communities

The report identified major barriers to influenza immunization among racial minorities, including older adults with low socioeconomic status and chronic health conditions. To address these gaps, Sustainable Healthy Communities launched a population health initiative, DRIVE, aiming to improve immunization rates in underserved communities.

SourcePadillaCRT·JournalVaccine·DateApr 8, 2019

You're probably not allergic to vaccines

According to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, vaccine allergies are extremely uncommon, affecting only one in 760,000 vaccinations. Most side effects from vaccines are not allergic reactions, but rather minor responses that can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 8, 2019

How lung tissue forms immune cell hubs in times of need

Immunology researchers at the Babraham Institute discovered how lung tissue is remodelled to support an immune response to influenza, producing antibodies with cross-protection against multiple strains. The findings may lead to more robust seasonal influenza vaccination and new therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2019

Flu vaccination keeps COPD patients out of the hospital

A recent study published in CHEST reveals that influenza vaccination can reduce hospitalizations among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by up to 38%. The study found that nearly two-thirds of COPD patients were not vaccinated, highlighting the need for improved vaccination rates and timely antiviral medication...

Flu vaccine is safe for hospitalized patients

A recent Kaiser Permanente study found that hospitalized patients who received the flu vaccine had no increased risk of outpatient visits or hospital readmission within seven days of discharge. The study also showed that vaccinating hospital patients did not increase the risk of fever or rates of laboratory evaluations for infection.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJan 8, 2019

High-dose influenza vaccine linked with lower hospitalization rates in dialysis patients

A new study suggests that high-dose influenza vaccine is associated with lower risk for hospitalizations in kidney failure patients on dialysis. The findings indicate a significant reduction in hospitalizations among dialysis patients who received the high-dose vaccine, while standard dose vaccine showed no difference.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 23, 2018