Articles tagged with Pandemic Influenza
The UK research community has secured £7.5 million in funding to study the development and spread of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009. The projects aim to understand how the virus mutates, jumps species barriers, and causes disease in humans and pigs.
The International Forum for Acute Care Trialists (InFACT) H1N1 Collaboration aims to develop coordinated, long-term approaches to treating severe H1N1 infection. Clinical trials will evaluate corticosteroids and statins as potential treatments for patients with severe H1N1 infection.
A study by Boston Children's Hospital researchers suggests three optimal scenarios for school closures: single-day absentee rate of 5%, consecutive days of 4% or more absenteeism, and three consecutive days of 3% or more. Scenario #2 is preferred for its balance between sensitivity and specificity.
The study found that hospitalization and death from H1N1 can occur at any age, with severe cases reported in 30% of hospitalized patients over 50. The median age of all cases was 27 years, and underlying conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were common among severe cases.
Research found that public sneezing triggers an increased fear of all health threats, even ones unrelated to germs. This phenomenon also influences policy preferences, shifting spending priorities towards flu vaccine production over green jobs.
A Lancet paper stresses the importance of accounting for background rates of adverse events to ensure accurate vaccine safety assessments. The study found that public concern over coincidental medical events can interfere with vaccine programs, even if the vaccine is not the cause.
A controversial theory suggests that vaccinating children against seasonal flu could prevent the development of heterosubtypic immunity to pandemic strains. However, experts disagree, arguing that vaccination is a definite benefit for preventing seasonal flu infections. The debate highlights the need for more effective influenza vaccines.
The PLOS collection explores how genomics can provide insights into emerging infectious diseases. Genomics research has the potential to track the spread of disease agents, develop vaccines, and combat pathogens more effectively. This could lead to a better preparedness for and response to biological threats.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation issues an advisory for cardiopulmonary transplantation programs to address novel 2009 H1N1 influenza. The advisory provides guidelines for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of H1N1 flu in transplant recipients and donors.
UC Davis launches PREDICT initiative to detect disease-causing organisms in wildlife before they spill over into people. The team aims to minimize pandemic impact by being ready for early detection and rapid response.
Rice University scientists win grant to investigate flu virus's complex replication process and develop more effective antiviral drugs. The research will focus on understanding the assembly of viral RNA segments into a viable package, which is crucial for the virus to reproduce.
A simulation model shows that early action and rapid vaccine rollout are extremely effective in reducing the attack rate of the H1N1 influenza virus. The model predicts that vaccination can have a disproportionately large impact on reducing infection rates, especially when implemented quickly.
A study published in JAMA found that most patients with severe respiratory failure due to 2009 influenza A(H1N1) and treated with an oxygenating system survived the disease. The study analyzed data from 68 patients who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, and found that 54 had survived and 14 had died.
A study published in JAMA found that critically ill patients with H1N1 were predominantly young adults with severely low oxygen levels, multi-system organ failure, and frequent need for mechanical ventilation. Most patients could be supported through critical illness with therapy.
A new study by Stanford University scientists found that starting a vaccination campaign a few weeks earlier could save almost 600 lives and over $150 million. Vaccinating sooner rather than later provides the best strategy to save lives and dollars in flu pandemics.
Researchers analyzed the clinical and cost-effectiveness of early H1N1 vaccination, finding that vaccinating 40% of the population in October or 35% in November could save costs and shorten the pandemic. Expanded vaccination and antiviral prophylaxis are also effective against avian flu, with a focus on mitigating the pandemic potentia...
A new study suggests that high aspirin dosing levels during the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic may have contributed to increased mortality. Autopsy reports from 1918 support this theory, as they show signs consistent with aspirin toxicity and viral causes of death.
A randomized controlled trial found that surgical masks are non-inferior to N95 respirators in preventing laboratory-confirmed influenza among nurses. The study suggests that surgical masks may be a suitable alternative when N95 respirators are not available, particularly in routine healthcare settings.
A new study found that prenatal exposure to the H1N1 strain of influenza A during the 1918-1919 pandemic increased the chances of heart disease later in life, particularly in men. Men born during the height of the epidemic were 23.1% more likely to develop heart disease after age 60.
A study published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society suggests that the 1918 El Niño may have contributed to the severity of the flu pandemic. The research indicates that the El Niño was one of the strongest of the 20th century, and its impact on global weather patterns could have exacerbated the spread of the disease.
A 70% vaccination rate in the US population, targeting children and high-risk groups, could slow pandemic H1N1 spread. Vaccination is more effective than social distancing measures in controlling the epidemic.
Researchers found that pandemic H1N1 influenza binds weakly to receptors in the lungs compared to the upper respiratory tract. This may explain why people infected with the pandemic strain experience more severe symptoms. The study suggests monitoring changes in the virus's ability to infect cells to minimize its impact.
Scientists have identified powerful antiviral compounds in the roots of Ferula assa-foetida, a plant used during the Spanish influenza pandemic. The sesquiterpene coumarins found in the plant showed greater potency against H1N1 flu virus than a prescription antiviral drug.
A laboratory study by University of Maryland researchers suggests the H1N1 pandemic variety prevails and out-compets other flu strains in a lab setting, reproducing twice as much on average. The findings support vaccinating against the pandemic flu virus this season due to its high communicability.
A national champion is needed to ensure access to vaccines and expertise, while local leaders must collaborate to respond rapidly. The Canadian Medical Association Journal emphasizes the importance of preparedness and clear communication to combat the H1N1 pandemic.
The NIAID analysis of 14 global influenza epidemics reveals no consistent pattern of wave-like surges prior to major outbreaks. Instead, the authors note a great diversity of severity among past pandemics, making predicting the future course of H1N1 virus difficult.
Researchers review prophylactic treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors for seasonal flu prevention, finding them effective in preventing symptomatic but not asymptomatic flu. Improved hand hygiene and face masks implemented within 36 hours of symptom onset also show promise in reducing household transmission of pandemic flu.
Researchers found that Relenza and Tamiflu equally prevent common flu symptoms in uninfected individuals, but data on vulnerable groups is lacking. The two drugs may also help combat oseltamivir-resistant influenza, but their effectiveness in preventing transmission among asymptomatic carriers is unknown.
A recent study found that pregnant women with H1N1 flu are at increased risk of severe disease and complications, highlighting the need for prompt antiviral treatment. The study suggests that vaccination should also be prioritized for pregnant women once available, in line with US guidelines.
A study by Ben-Gurion U. researchers found that approximately 16% of public health care workers will not report for work in a pandemic flu emergency, regardless of severity. Belief in the importance of one's work is strongly associated with willingness to report.
Researchers warn that antiviral treatment for the elderly may not reduce mortality and could lead to increased resistance. Age-prioritized use of antivirals is suggested as a more efficient way to treat patients.
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.
Experts warn that UK hospitals will struggle to cope with swine flu patients, with pediatric intensive care facilities and ventilators facing severe shortages. The study predicts demand for critical care beds could outstrip supply by up to 130% and ventilator capacity by up to 20%.
A review of past epidemics suggests that early and prolonged school closure can reduce the number of cases at the peak of a flu pandemic, but has limited impact on total cases. School closures are associated with significant social and economic costs, including disruption to healthcare systems and key services.
Mathematical models help simulate plausible scenarios, develop control strategies, and identify areas for research. The H1N1 virus could become more severe in the fall, with small seasonal variations driving large annual surges in disease transmission.
Researchers say a standard calculation for estimating flu deaths may not accurately reflect true figures due to factors like underreporting and varying disease severity. The study highlights the need for more sophisticated data collection and analysis methods to provide healthcare planners with accurate predictions.
The Tel Aviv University team has created a statistical tool that can macro- and micromanage pandemic influenza outbreaks, providing guidance for complex decisions on airport closures, school shutdowns, and travel routes. The model takes into account the new H1N1 swine flu's impact on vulnerable populations.
The US military's influenza monitoring system has made notable contributions to global control through collaboration with CDC, FDA, and WHO. The Department of Defense Global Emerging Infections Surveillance and Response System (DoD-GEIS) program provides six objectives relevant to influenza, including laboratory-based surveillance and ...
The 1918 influenza pandemic created a viral dynasty that persists to this day, with all human-adapted influenza A viruses being descendents of the founding virus. The novel 2009 H1N1 virus is yet another manifestation of this enduring viral family.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals an age shift in swine flu cases, with younger populations (5-59 years) being disproportionately affected. The findings suggest a need for revised public health strategies to mitigate the impact of future pandemic waves.
Researchers suggest vaccinating children could be an effective way to support pandemic control measures. Vaccination programs for children would offer protection not only to those at greatest risk but also to unvaccinated adults, reducing the need for vaccines in the general population.
Researchers suggest targeting children for flu vaccination to support control measures and reduce pandemic spread. Vaccinating key individuals in households provides sufficient protection to others, potentially reducing the need for widespread vaccination.
Researchers at Medical College of Wisconsin published first paper describing Milwaukee's largest swine origin influenza (H1N1) outbreak in June 2009. The study identified 679 adults and children with S-OIV infection, making up 18.2% of all tested individuals.
The Lancet is launching a major series on the state of public health in southeast Asia to assess the region's successes, challenges, and growing risk of pandemics. The series will focus on building effective capacity and cooperation between health institutions and ministries across the region.
A review by Dr David Fedson suggests that generic drugs like statins and fibrates could help manage the pandemic by regulating cell signalling pathways. However, the majority of the world's population will not have timely access to affordable supplies of vaccines and antiviral agents.
The Government of Canada has funded a national influenza research network to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of pandemic influenza vaccines. The network, led by Dr. Scott Halperin, will provide a pan-Canadian coordinating mechanism for conducting applied public health research on the H1N1 flu virus.
A computer model developed by four US national laboratories helps airport authorities screen passengers for pandemic influenza, estimating false negatives and assessing risk. The simulation suggests key factors to reduce the spread of disease, including pre-flight screening, symptom testing on arrival, and advances in diagnostics.
A novel vaccine strategy using VLPs could provide a more robust immune response and shorter development time compared to traditional vaccines. Researchers have already made VLP vaccines that show complete protection against H5N1 and 1918 influenza viruses.
A study highlights the need for hospitals to develop formal plans to address priority treatment for pregnant women and newborns in case of an influenza pandemic. Despite 78% having written plans, concerns remain about resource allocation, vaccination safety, and coordination with public health agencies.
A recent survey of healthcare workers in the UK reveals that up to 85% may stay off work if an influenza pandemic occurs. Factors such as family and caring responsibilities, as well as concerns about training and work environment, significantly impact their willingness to work during a pandemic.
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.
Researchers propose a new system to warn of impending pandemics by monitoring subtle signals in human behavior, such as increased flu-related medication purchases. This approach aims to overcome the traditional challenge of knowing when events leading to pandemics begin, allowing for proactive measures to be taken.
Researchers found that the virus is spreading consistently with early stages of a pandemic, fatal in around 4 in 1,000 cases, and likely to cause secondary cases for every infected person. The epidemic is thought to have started in Mexico on February 15, 2009, with 23,000 people infected and 91 deaths by the end of April.
The Lancet Editorial highlights the balanced media coverage of the H1N1 outbreak, noting its relative morbidity and mortality. The article also commends health authorities for their measured responses to the crisis, preparing them for a potentially more devastating pandemic.
Researchers identified 34 genetic markers of influenza infection severity in past outbreaks but found only half of these markers in the current swine-flu strain. The study suggests that the current virus lacks many attributes making previous outbreaks deadly, but more studies are needed for firm conclusions
A conference on prison pandemic preparedness in Georgia demonstrates effective training methods, including interactive approaches and experiential learning. The event fosters partnerships between correctional health and public health officials to enhance pandemic response capabilities.
The Lancet Editorial highlights the lack of evidence for some swine flu interventions, including culling pigs, restricting pork trade, and distributing facemasks. Experts emphasize the need for timely and accurate information dissemination to healthcare professionals, particularly in pandemic preparedness.
A French study analyzed mortality rates in three-quarters of the European population, concluding that the virus likely originated outside Europe. The research found high synchronicity among the 14 studied countries, with a peak in October-November 1918.
Researchers found that combining workplace non-attendance, school closure, isolating infected family members, and reducing community contact can significantly reduce the rate of development and overall burden of influenza epidemics. Interventions must be introduced within 2 weeks of the first case to prevent an epidemic developing.
A Kansas State University researcher has found that the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic virus and the current swine influenza virus are closely related, with the former adapting to pigs and resulting in the latter. The study suggests that pigs may have played a role in maintaining and spreading the virus.