Flu viruses disguised as waste
Researchers discovered flu virus exploits aggresome, a cellular waste bundle, to release genetic material. The process takes 20-30 minutes and is gradual, with the virus tricking the waste pickup and disposal system.
Influenza
Articles tagged with Influenza
Flu vaccine may hold key to preventing heart disease
A new study reveals how flu vaccines prevent heart attacks by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies that protect the heart. The research identifies a protein called BKB2R as the key mechanism behind this protective effect, and suggests it could be harnessed to develop a vaccine against heart disease.
Influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection: New details emerge
Research shows that influenza A potentiates pneumococcal co-infection by enhancing the bacterium's ability to colonize the nasopharynx and infect the middle ear. This interaction leads to increased inflammatory responses, allowing pneumococci to flourish in the host environment.
Flu vaccine for expectant moms a top priority
A flu shot is crucial for pregnant women to prevent serious illness and protect their babies from influenza. Vaccinated moms also have a lower risk of flu-related hospitalizations for chronic asthma, heart conditions, diabetes, and other health issues.
Mandatory policy boosts flu vaccination rates among health care workers
A mandatory employee vaccination policy at Henry Ford Health System resulted in a significant increase in flu vaccination rates, reaching 99% among health care workers. The system's success can be attributed to effective communication, education, and sufficient vaccine availability.
New single-dose influenza drug appears safe and effective
A new single-dose influenza drug, peramivir, shows promise in alleviating flu symptoms, including fever and viral shedding, when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset. It effectively reduces median time to alleviation of symptoms by 22 hours and is generally safe and well-tolerated.
Doctors miss opportunities to offer flu shots
Racial and ethnic minorities are less likely to get vaccinated against flu due to missed opportunities by healthcare professionals. Offering flu shots more frequently could increase adult vaccination rates to 50% or above for all groups.
Club cells are 'bad guys' during flu infection
Researchers discovered that club cells, which normally protect against inhaled microbes, contribute to prolonged inflammation during flu infection. Targeting these cells may help shorten flu symptoms by reducing lung damage.
Vanderbilt-led study shows high-dose flu vaccine more effective in elderly
A Vanderbilt-led study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the high-dose flu vaccine is 24% more effective than the standard-dose vaccine in protecting persons ages 65 and over against influenza illness. The study, which enrolled 31,989 participants, showed that the high-dose trivalent vaccine induces significan...
Findings suggest antivirals underprescribed for patients at risk for flu complications
A study of 6,800 outpatients found antiviral therapy was given to only 19% of those at high risk for complications, while antibiotics were prescribed to 30%. The findings suggest a need for increased education on appropriate use in outpatient settings.
Bacterial colonization prior to catching the flu may protect against severe illness
Researchers found that prior colonization by Streptococcus pneumoniae protected mice from severe disease and pneumonia. The protective effect was linked to the bacterial virulence factor pneumolysin, which reduced inflammation in the lungs.
Computation leads to better understanding of influenza virus replication
University of Chicago scientists have developed new multiscale simulations that reveal the proton permeation mechanism in influenza A, a crucial step in viral replication. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more effective and targeted treatments against the flu.
Study: When hospital workers get vaccines, community flu rates fall
A California-based study reveals a strong connection between hospital healthcare personnel influenza vaccination and the rate of influenza-like illnesses in surrounding communities. For every 15 vaccinated healthcare workers, one fewer case of flu is reported in the community.
SourceAssociation for Professionals in Infection Control·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJun 4, 2014
Ending the perfect storm: Protein key to beating flu pandemics
Researchers found that SOCS4 suppresses the immune system's runaway reaction to flu infection, reducing the risk of cytokine storms and related deaths. The discovery provides a potential means of minimizing the impact of flu pandemics.
China study improves understanding of disease spread
A new study from the University of Liverpool surveyed 1,821 people in Guangdong to understand how diseases such as bird flu spread among communities. The research found that people met around ten others each day and spent between five and ten hours a day with other people.
When big isn't better: How the flu bug bit Google
A study by University of Houston researchers found that Google Flu Trend overestimated flu cases in the US by up to 50% and failed to accurately predict levels in previous seasons. The researchers suggest combining big data with traditional methodologies for a more accurate understanding of human behavior.
Birds of all feathers and global flu diversity
A global inventory of flu strains in birds has identified over 116 avian flu strains in wild birds, twice the number found in domestic birds. The study also reveals patterns of flu diversity in different bird hosts, with some strains specific to certain species.
Self-administration of flu vaccine with a patch may be feasible, study suggests
A new study suggests that self-administration of the flu vaccine via a microneedle patch could be feasible and increase vaccination rates. The study found that nearly all participants were able to accurately apply the patches, with significant increases in willingness to receive the vaccine.
Climate change won't reduce deaths in winter
A new study published in Nature Climate Change found no link between warmer winters and reduced excess winter death rates in the UK. Instead, flu activity was identified as the main cause of year-to-year variation in winter mortality.
Researchers discover immune signature that predicts poor outcome in influenza patients
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified an immune signature that predicts poor flu outcomes in patients, who are more likely to develop severe symptoms and suffer from complications. The findings also explain why infants and toddlers are at elevated risk for flu-related issues.
SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 10, 2014
Study backs giving flu vaccine to working-age adults with diabetes
A new study published in Diabetologia confirms that working-age adults with diabetes are at a higher risk of influenza compared to non-diabetic individuals. The research suggests that vaccinating this group could be cost-effective and mitigate healthcare costs associated with flu-related hospitalizations.
The rocky road to a better flu vaccine
Researchers found that a new adjuvant improved flu vaccine effectiveness in mice and showed promise for the elderly. The study also highlighted the importance of characterizing immune responses following intra-nasal vaccinations, particularly with novel adjuvants.
Flu forecasting website posts first predictions
The new website provides weekly predictions for US seasonal flu rates in 94 cities, based on a scientifically validated system. Flu cases are forecast to peak in January, with some areas already experiencing the worst of the outbreak.
Genetic clue to fighting new strains of flu
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have identified a genetic marker that signals increased susceptibility to emerging influenza strains. This breakthrough allows clinicians to develop early intervention strategies for high-risk patients.
SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2013
Older mice fed wolfberries show reduced risk for flu virus with vaccine
Researchers at Tufts University found that wolfberries can increase immune system activity and protect against the flu virus in older mice who received the flu vaccine. The study suggests potential benefits for humans as well, where age-related weakening of the immune system reduces vaccine effectiveness.
First real-time flu forecast successful
Scientists successfully predicted the timing of the 2012-2013 influenza season up to nine weeks in advance, providing actionable information for officials and the public. The flu forecasting system, using combined data from Google Flu Trends and CDC reports, outperformed alternate schemes and showed regional differences in accuracy.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 3, 2013
Health insurance increases preventive care but not risky behaviors
Researchers at UC Davis and University of Rochester found that having health insurance increases use of preventive services like flu shots and health screenings, but does not affect risky health behaviors. The study contradicts a common concern that expanding healthcare coverage may encourage riskier behavior.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013
Research reveals details of how flu evolves to escape immunity
Researchers have identified that seasonal flu escapes immunity by making just a single amino acid substitution, occurring at seven specific places on its surface. This new understanding could lead to more effective flu vaccines.
Research shows that anti-fungal medicine may increase vulnerability to influenza and other viruses
A study found that Amphotericin B, a widely used anti-fungal medicine, neutralizes an important anti-viral protein IFITM3, making cells more susceptible to flu infection. This increases the risk of flu infections in patients with already compromised immune systems.
Researchers suggest China consider national flu vaccination plan with staggered timing
Research suggests that northern China conduct annual vaccinations starting in October, while southernmost provinces vaccinate in February. The study aims to optimize the timing of future vaccination programs and provides a clear picture of influenza seasonally across China.
Hashtag health
A social media program by San Diego State University professor Ming-Hsiang Tsou analyzed tweets for keywords 'flu' and 'influenza' to identify outbreaks. The algorithm detected daily correlations between tweet patterns and regional reports, with five cities showing the strongest correlations.
Rapid testing to diagnose influenza leads to more appropriate care in the ED
Diagnosing influenza with a rapid test reduces the need for unnecessary antibiotics, lab tests, and antiviral medications. It also increases the prescription of antiviral drugs, leading to more targeted and efficient care in emergency departments.
SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateNov 14, 2013
Allergic to gummy bears? Be cautious getting the flu shot
Individuals with a known gelatin allergy can experience mild to severe reactions from the flu shot, including hives, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Precautions should be taken when receiving the vaccine, such as having a board-certified allergist administer it.
Defining allergy fact from fiction
Allergy expert Dr. David Stukus debunks common myths, including artificial dyes, vaccines, at-home blood tests, dietary restrictions, and pet allergies. He emphasizes the importance of consulting a board-certified allergist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Killer apps that could keep you healthy
Two student-developed mobile apps, FoodFeed and FL•U, have been created to combat health threats. FoodFeed provides alerts on food recalls, illness outbreaks and health code violations, while FL•U allows users to share flu-like symptoms and view localized outbreak maps.
Flu virus wipes out immune system's first responders to establish infection
Researchers at Whitehead Institute discovered that the flu virus infects host cells by killing off immune system's best-equipped cells that can neutralize the virus. This allows the virus to replicate efficiently before the immune system mounts a second wave of defense.
Expanding flu vaccination policies to include children could reduce infections and mortality
A UK-based study found that expanding flu vaccination policies to include children aged 5-16 could significantly reduce the number of flu infections and deaths. The current policy targets adults over 65 and high-risk groups, which has shown success in reducing morbidity and mortality.
Virginia Tech engineer receives NIH New Innovator Award to study flu virus
Researchers at Virginia Tech aim to improve understanding of how environmental conditions affect the influenza virus's ability to survive and infect others while airborne. The project seeks to clarify why humidity affects the virus's transmission.
Researchers discover a new way that influenza can infect cells
Scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center have uncovered a new mechanism by which influenza viruses infect cells, utilizing the protein neuraminidase instead of hemagglutinin. This discovery may have implications for developing immunity against the flu and could lead to new treatments.
New moms and obese people risk complications from influenza: McMaster study
A McMaster study found that new mothers and obese individuals are more susceptible to severe influenza outcomes, despite not being considered high-risk groups. The research highlights the need for precise definition of risk factors to optimize vaccine allocation during epidemics.
Flu jab may halve heart attack risk in middle aged with narrowed arteries
Research published in the journal Heart suggests that flu jab reduces heart attack risk by 45% in middle-aged individuals with narrowed arteries. The study found that flu was an underlying cause of heart attacks in hospital patients, and that vaccination may be protective.
Study finds depletion of alveolar macrophages linked to bacterial super-infections
Researchers found that only one type of alveolar macrophage can fend off secondary bacterial infections, which are depleted during flu infections. The study aims to develop strategies for treatment and immunotherapies to supplement natural defenses.
New research finds flu shot effective regardless of circulating flu strain
A new study by St. Michael's Hospital found that the flu shot is effective in preventing the flu, even if the virus going around does not match the vaccine. The review of over 40 years of data showed significant protection against both matched and mismatched flu strains.
Flu shot likely prevented 13 million illnesses, 110,000 hospitalizations from 2005-2011
According to a study published in PLOS ONE, the flu vaccine likely prevented approximately 13 million illnesses and over 110,000 hospitalizations in the US between 2006 and 2011. The researchers estimated this impact based on vaccination coverage and vaccine effectiveness.
Universal paid sick leave reduces spread of flu, according to Pitt simulation
A Pitt simulation found that universal access to paid sick days reduces flu cases in the workplace by nearly 6%, more effective for small workplaces. Giving employees one or two flu days resulted in a 25-40% decrease in influenza infections due to workplace transmission.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJun 13, 2013
Flu vaccines aimed at younger populations could break annual transmission cycle
A new report suggests that vaccinating more children and young adults for influenza could significantly reduce the number of lives lost and economic burden associated with seasonal influenza. The study's findings suggest that programs targeting these age groups would have the best payoff in breaking the annual transmission cycle.
Workers do not quit due to mandatory flu shot, says Loyola study
A four-year analysis of Loyola University Health System's mandatory flu vaccination policy shows that workers do not quit due to the requirement. The policy led to a 99 percent compliance rate and enhanced patient safety.
Mandatory flu vaccination of healthcare personnel does not lead to worker exodus
A four-year analysis found that mandatory influenza vaccination in a university medical center led to a near-universal vaccination rate, with fewer than 15 employees out of 8,000 choosing termination over vaccination. The policy also enhanced patient and staff safety, resulting in improved outcomes.
School-located vaccination programs could reduce flu cases and deaths among children
A new study found that school-located vaccination clinics increased flu vaccination rates among children by 13.2 percentage points, despite higher initial costs. The program may be a cost-effective way to broaden access to flu vaccines for children, particularly in primary-care settings.
Double dose of antiviral drug offers no added benefit in severe influenza
A randomized trial found that giving double doses of oseltamivir to patients with severe influenza infection offers no clinical or virological advantages over a standard dose. The study has implications for global guidelines on clinical management and stockpiling drugs for pandemic preparedness.
Californians with 'medical home' more likely to get flu shots, preventive treatment
A study by UCLA Center for Health Policy Research found that Californians with chronic conditions who have a regular doctor coordinating their care are more likely to get flu shots and receive preventive treatment. This 'medical home' model can help prevent chronic health conditions and reduce healthcare spending.
Expert questions US public health agency advice on influenza vaccines
A Johns Hopkins fellow argues that the US public health agency's message on influenza vaccines may be overstated, with limited evidence supporting the claim that vaccines save lives. He also questions the effectiveness of vaccines in reducing elderly deaths and highlights potential side effects.
Flu in pregnancy may quadruple child's risk for bipolar disorder
A recent NIH-funded study found that pregnant mothers' exposure to the flu may quadruple their child's risk for developing bipolar disorder. The research suggests a potential shared underlying cause with schizophrenia, and emphasizes the importance of preventive measures such as flu vaccination.
University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers find potential novel treatment for influenza
Scientists at the University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered a promising new treatment for influenza, Eritoran, which protects mice from death after infection. The findings are crucial in light of the spreading H7N9 flu strain in China, with 17 deaths reported.
Flu and bacteria: Better prognosis for this potentially fatal combination
Research by scientists from the Max F. Perutz Laboratories suggests that treating flu-related tissue damage can aid in combating co-infections with bacteria like Legionella pneumophila, which cause pneumonia and potentially fatal outcomes.
Food safety and bioterrorism defense may benefit from improved detection test developed at MU
A new detection test using nanotechnology may make food contamination testing more rapid and accurate, with a sensitivity one hundred times greater than the standard method. The test can detect toxins in as little as one hour, compared to four to six hours for current methods.
Bird flu mutation study offers vaccine clue
Researchers discovered genetic changes enabling H5N1 bird flu to replicate in mammalian noses, paving the way for more effective vaccines against human transmission. The findings suggest that specific mutations can mediate the spread of bird flu between humans.
NIH study sheds light on role of climate in influenza transmission
A recent NIH study found a strong association between cold-dry and humid-rainy climates and seasonal influenza epidemics worldwide. The research used a climate-based model to map influenza activity globally, accounting for diverse seasonal patterns in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions.
UMD study provides new clues to how flu virus spreads
A University of Maryland study found that wearing a surgical mask can significantly reduce the release of infectious flu virus in even the smallest airborne droplets. The research provides new evidence on the importance of using masks to prevent the spread of influenza, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Protecting health care workers
Healthcare workers who wear special fitted face masks are less likely to get clinical respiratory and bacterial infections. The study, published in the American Journal of Critical Care Medicine, found that continuous use of N95 masks provides significant protection against both types of infections.