The last time we discussed enterovirus about a month ago, it was confined to the Midwest. Now, federal official have confirmed 538 cases in 43 states, although this number is likely a gross underestimate, since most such
flu
Fall is here as of this past Monday, and flu season is not too far away. The CDC recommends flu shots for everyone over 6 months of age, and doctors are especially pushing flu shots for seniors.
Influenza (the flu) is a systemic viral infection which usually wreaks most of its havoc upon the respiratory system. While most cases are not life-threatening (although it can be very uncomfortable and cost a week s work or loss of school),
The antiviral drugs Tamiflu and Relenza are often used for the treatment of the flu in children and adults. Although past research has suggested that these drugs could reduce hospital admissions and
We ve said it many times in the past, and we ll say it again vaccines are a true public health miracle, banishing diseases from diphtheria to polio, which have killed hundreds of thousands in global epidemics.
A recent report in the journal The Lancet Respiratory Medicine provides some surprising information about who might spread influenza.
A new high-dose vaccine against the flu shows evidence of significantly enhanced efficacy for older people. If the CDC vaccine committee agrees, it will become part of the routine program for seniors, and many lives may be saved.
New York City s Board of Health has voted to make flu shots mandatory for preschoolers and daycare admittance. This is set to affect about 150,000 kids. Exemptions, however, look like they ll be readily available. So, if the point is protecting kids and their families, will it really make a difference?
Last year s flu season raised more controversy than usual about the use and utility of the flu vaccine. The degree of protection (about 60%) was on the low side, leading many to question whether it was even worth being vaccinated. Another related question that arose was whether more is better. In other words, if one dose gives moderate protection, would doubling the dose provide more? What about a fourfold increased dose?
A very large retrospective analysis performed by researchers affiliated with Kaiser-Permanente Northern California (KPNC) has confirmed what numerous prior studies have shown: there is no discernible link between influenza vaccine and the neurological condition, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS).
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