Articles tagged with Influenza
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A clinical trial in rural Canadian communities found that immunizing children against seasonal influenza significantly protects unvaccinated individuals via herd immunity. The study, conducted among Hutterite youth aged 36 months to 15 years, showed a 61% effective rate of indirect protection.
A new study published in Medical Care found that high hospital occupancy is associated with a 5.6% increased risk of patient death, while nurse staffing levels can decrease this risk by 6%. Weekend admissions also increase the risk of death by 7.5%, while seasonal flu raises it by 11.7%.
A new study published in PLoS Biology found that absolute humidity is the underlying cause of seasonal influenza outbreaks. The researchers used 31 years of observed data to drive a mathematical model of influenza and found that the model simulations reproduced the observed seasonal cycle of influenza throughout the United States.
A new Cornell study reveals that using kitchen spoons to measure liquid medicine can lead to significant inaccuracies. Participants under-dosed by an average of 8%, while those using larger spoons over-dosed by 12%. Experts recommend using precise measuring devices instead.
A new study reveals that nearly half of UK women have a genetic variation reducing their ability to produce sufficient vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a vital role in immune system strengthening and preventing infections. The study found that younger women are at particular risk, highlighting the importance of adequate diet for this nutrient.
A new study found that eight in 10 Americans are missing out on the health benefits of a diet rich in colorful fruits and veggies, resulting in a phytonutrient gap. Consuming a variety of colorful foods can support immune function and overall health.
A study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older patients with dementia are diagnosed with flu less frequently, have shorter hospital stays, but a higher rate of death. The study highlights the need for refined guidelines on flu immunization and treatment in this vulnerable population.
Despite high risk, older African Americans are less likely to get the flu vaccine due to lack of accurate information and lingering distrust from the infamous Tuskegee syphilis studies. This results in lower vaccination rates among this age group, with only 48% vaccinated compared to 65% for non-Hispanic white seniors.
A new study found that nearly half of high-risk American adults who intend to get vaccinated against seasonal flu actually do, but nearly 45% cite a perceived lack of need as the main reason for not being vaccinated. The researchers suggest that educating these individuals about the benefits of vaccination and making it more convenient...
A survey of 1,835 public health workers found that 16% would not report to work regardless of the severity of an outbreak. Belief in the importance of one's work was strongly associated with willingness to respond, with those who believed their role could have a positive impact being 31 times more likely to respond.
A new study found that fetal exposure to influenza B virus may lead to cognitive problems at age 7 among children later diagnosed with psychosis. The association was not observed in children who did not develop psychotic disorders.
IDO enzyme can hinder flu vaccine efficacy by suppressing T-cell response, researchers say. The team plans to block IDO using inhibitors to build better vaccines.
A new study by the University of Kansas and Gallup indicates that people are naturally optimistic, with 89% expecting their next five years to be better than current life. Optimism is highest in Ireland, Brazil, Denmark, and New Zealand, but demography has a minimal impact on individual levels.
A new study found that flu vaccines are no more effective in preventing hospitalizations in children with asthma than in those without the condition. The research suggests that vaccination may actually increase the risk of hospitalization among asthmatic children.
A new system could use simple icons on TV screens to warn of future phases of a pandemic outbreak. The researchers emphasize the importance of rapid response and early detection in reducing the impact of a pandemic.
A new study found that early prenatal exposure to the Hong Kong flu may have interfered with fetal cerebral development and caused reduced intelligence in adulthood. The study involved over 180,000 men born between 1967 and 1973 and showed a significant association between prenatal exposure to the virus and lower intelligence scores.
A recent study has identified a common attachment site on influenza A virus subtypes that can be targeted to develop a universal flu vaccine. This breakthrough discovery was made by researchers at The Scripps Research Institute and provides a blueprint for the development of new antiviral drugs.
A study by Ohio State University researchers suggests that the influenza virus can lead to excessive fluid buildup in the lungs, impairing oxygen supply. The research aims to develop a new therapy to address this issue, potentially reducing the need for ventilation.
Researchers found a significant correlation between low absolute humidity and increased influenza virus survival and transmission. The study, published in PNAS, suggests that absolute humidity is the key control for seasonal flu outbreaks.
Experts urge grocery stores to promote free flu vaccinations instead of free antibiotics during cold and flu season. A recent study shows that workers who received flu vaccine lost fewer days of work due to illness.
Workers aged 50-64 who received the flu vaccine lost fewer days of work and worked less time while ill compared to unvaccinated individuals. The study found a significant reduction in illness-related workdays and improved worker productivity after vaccination.
A new survey of 4,000 American adults reveals that fewer than one-third have been vaccinated against the flu, citing misperceptions and lack of time as main reasons. The CDC's National Influenza Vaccination Week aims to encourage greater use of influenza vaccines through December.
New research by Cardiff University's Common Cold Centre found that hot fruit cordial provides immediate relief from cold symptoms. The study of 30 volunteers with common cold symptoms showed a 'hot' version of the drink to be effective in reducing symptoms such as runny nose and cough.
College students who receive flu vaccines experience significantly fewer flu-like illnesses and impairments in academic performance. Vaccination was associated with a reduction of half-day illnesses, one day of missed class per 17 vaccinated students.
Research by Elizabeth Gardner shows that calorie restriction makes it harder to fight off the flu virus, leading to increased mortality and weight loss. A normal diet helps the body produce natural killer cells quickly enough to combat the infection.
A landmark trial is underway to assess whether COLD-FX reduces infections in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients, who are vulnerable to respiratory infections due to weakened immune systems. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of COLD-FX in preventing and treating viral respiratory infections.
Research suggests that flu vaccination can lower the risk of venous thrombotic embolism (VTE) in people with cardiovascular disease. The protective effect was more pronounced in those under 52 years old. Further studies are needed to confirm this relationship and explore underlying mechanisms.
Research by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that flu vaccines are effective in protecting children from respiratory viruses, even during years with poor vaccine matches. Vaccination is crucial for preventing illnesses, as it can prevent up to 2,250 hospitalizations and 270,000 to 650,000 doctor visits.
Two studies published in PLOS Medicine show that increasing flu vaccination rates can decrease the burden of influenza. A universal immunization program in Ontario led to reductions in flu-related deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits compared to other provinces.
A landmark study found that wearing masks and using hand sanitizers may reduce the spread of flu-like symptoms by as much as 50 percent. The study involved over 1,000 students from seven U-M residence halls and showed significant reductions in influenza-like illness symptoms after implementing mask use and hand sanitizer protocols.
A CDC-funded study found that vaccinating new mothers and family members against influenza before a newborn leaves the hospital significantly boosts immunization rates. The 'cocooning effect' also protects unprotected children from the flu, which can be life-threatening to infants.
A new decision model seeks to minimize the risk of producing ineffective flu vaccines by deferring production and reevaluating strains based on emerging evidence. The model allows for flexibility in the vaccine composition, prioritizing accuracy over timely production.
A Canadian study involving children and a botanical extract (COLD-fX) shows promise for its future development as a cold and flu remedy. The study, published in Pediatrics, found that acute three-day doses of COLD-fX were well-tolerated with no serious adverse events.
A Group Health study found that flu vaccination had no protective effect against pneumonia in elderly patients. The largest case-control study of flu vaccine use in the elderly revealed a lack of correlation between vaccination and reduced risk of pneumonia.
Researchers have found a way to limit immune system's response and reduce inflammation in lungs caused by influenza, using CD200R receptor. Mice treated with mimic of CD200 or antibody to stimulate CD200R showed reduced weight loss and inflammation.
A Yale University study reveals that cigarette smoke makes flu and other viral infections worse by triggering an exaggerated immune response. This overreaction leads to increased lung inflammation and tissue damage, making smokers more prone to severe illness and death.
Researchers developed mathematical models to determine effective non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) for protecting vulnerable populations in nursing homes. The study found that conventional NPIs can curb mild outbreaks, but higher-level restrictions are needed for severe ones. Staff plays a critical role in controlling disease spr...
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a potential new way to vaccinate against avian flu by using synthetic DNA vaccines that induce broad immune responses against pandemic flu. This approach could allow for quick mobilization during an epidemic and has implications for non-avian types of flu.
A new study found that prompt initiation of chemoprophylaxis within five days of detecting an influenza outbreak significantly reduces the duration and severity of outbreaks in long-term care facilities. This approach leads to fewer cases (6.2 vs. 10.5 per 100 residents) and deaths (0.45 vs. 3.3 per 100 ill residents).
Researchers traced flu samples from around the world to determine migration patterns, finding Asia is the breeding ground for new strains. The study's 'antigenic map' shows relationships between viruses and helps predict future outbreaks.
A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that 90% of high-cost hospitalizations for young children were linked to influenza. The researchers also identified that 65% of high-cost visits required ICU stays, emphasizing the importance of immunizing children with high-risk conditions.
Researchers analyzed gene sequences of seasonal influenza virus samples collected from temperate regions and found that new strains emerge annually from the tropics. This understanding can help public health officials develop more accurate flu vaccine strategies.
Research found that annual flu vaccines reduced acute respiratory illness and exacerbations of COPD by 67% and 50%, respectively. Patients with severe COPD experienced a 75% reduction in respiratory problems.
Researchers modelled pandemic flu to guide national planning, finding that prompt implementation of social-distancing measures combined with antiviral treatment and prophylaxis can reduce influenza cases by 83-94%.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that 23% of children hospitalized with influenza had a previous hospitalization during the most recent flu-vaccine season. This suggests that providing in-hospital vaccinations to those at highest risk may aid in reducing rates of pediatric hospitalization for influenza.
Researchers found that the M2 protein's motion and structure change when treated with amantadine, blocking the flu virus from infecting healthy cells. The study provides insight into developing alternative antiviral drugs for resistant flu strains.
Researchers have identified a key factor that determines influenza virus ability to infect human upper respiratory tract cells. The H5N1 avian flu virus must adapt to bind to specific sugar molecules coating the cells of our noses and throats.
A new report emphasizes the importance of good hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infections, including colds, flu, and stomach bugs. By washing hands regularly and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, individuals can reduce the risk of transmission and protect themselves and others from harm.
Researchers developed a new method to assess the danger of flu drug resistance emergence, combining human infection data with a mathematical framework. The study found that immune response plays a crucial role in determining the likelihood of resistant infections spreading.
Global health experts Laurie Garrett and David Fidler propose stockpiling highly specific influenza vaccines and antiviral medicines in Hong Kong to overcome the virus sharing impasse. The proposal aims to benefit developing countries by ensuring they have access to vaccine, reducing the risk of pandemic influenza.
Tamiflu significantly reduces illness severity and duration in children one year and older, with a 29% reduction in influenza severity and 26% reduction in illness duration compared to placebo. The new lower dose capsules offer a convenient alternative for the treatment and prevention of influenza types A and B.
A study found that antiviral medications significantly reduced the risk of death from flu in hospitalized adults, even when given up to four days after symptom onset. The research supports the use of antivirals for treating hospitalized patients with influenza.
Researchers Timothy Chang and Peter Tolias will receive the award for their patent on a liquid dispensing system that enables rapid, low-cost testing of body fluids. The SmartPin device uses tiny electronic sensors to dispense precise amounts of fluid without contamination.
A new study by researchers links low temperatures and relative humidities to the rapid spread of influenza, validating the seasonal flu theory. The study found that low relative humidities facilitate viral transmission, with opposite effects at higher humidity levels.
Researchers from NIH identify sources of bias in previous studies, suggesting strategies to reduce severe influenza outcomes among the elderly. The authors emphasize the need for better flu vaccines and new approaches, including antiviral drugs and targeted vaccination for high-risk individuals.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that annual flu shots significantly reduce outpatient visits and hospitalizations due to flu-related illness. Vaccinating half of U.S. children could prevent up to 650,000 doctor's office visits and 2,250 hospitalizations per year.
A new study by the New York Academy of Medicine highlights the critical need to address vaccination coverage among hard-to-reach populations. The authors propose achievable strategies to increase immunization rates among these groups, including unconventional site distribution and patient reminders.
Rising global temperatures are expected to alter infectious disease patterns, with increased transmission of diseases like malaria and influenza. Climate change is also linked to water-borne diseases, as extreme weather events strain aging infrastructure.
A new study by UCLA researchers suggests that current US control strategies for flu epidemics may not be effective and could even make outbreaks worse. The study found that providing free vaccinations to entire families can actually increase the frequency of severe epidemics due to decreased adaptability among household members.
Current health policy based on voluntary vaccinations is not enough to control severe flu epidemics and pandemics unless vaccination programs offer incentives to individuals. Free vaccinations for entire families could actually increase the frequency of severe epidemics, according to UCLA researchers.