Category: Flu Vaccine

Niagara Health hospitals continue to see increased levels of COVID-19, RSV and influenza

NEWS RELEASE NIAGARA REGION PUBLIC HEALTH ***************************** With the holiday season fast approaching, Niagara Region Public Health and Niagara Health are encouraging everyone to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines to protect themselves from serious illness.

Cases of COVID-19 and Influenza are high across Ontario, Niagara included, and infections are expected to peak during the holiday season. As it can take up to two weeks for vaccines to provide protection against the viruses, now is the time to get the shots.

While anyone can get really sick from viruses like COVID-19, the flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), we know there are vulnerable people in our community, such as children, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, who are more at risk, said Niagara Region Public Healths Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Azim Kasmani.

Niagara Health hospitals continue to see increased levels of COVID-19, RSV and influenza, said Dr. Karim Ali, Niagara Healths Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control.

It is imperative that those who qualify, update their vaccines to help prevent the spread of these viruses, he said. COVID and influenza vaccines can prevent serious illness in high-risk individuals.

Ali said ICU (intensive care unit) admissions for COVID-19 have remained stable, a fact he attributes to immunity from vaccines and previous infection. Thats another reason vaccination is so important, he said.

We have seen first-hand that vaccinations are effective in reducing the seriousness of these viruses in most people, leading to fewer hospitalizations, he said.

This years flu strain is quite severe, he said, noting there have already been two young adult patients admitted to the ICU due to complications related to influenza infections.

Currently pharmacies and health care providers are offering flu and COVID-19 vaccines, while Niagara Region Public Health is offering COVID-19 vaccines. The RSV vaccine is currently approved for adults aged 60 years and older, and more information on eligibility and how to get the vaccine is available on the Ministry of Healths website.

COVID-19 vaccines may be given at the same time as, or any time before or after, the flu shot. Everyone six months of age and older is recommended to get the XBB COVID-19 vaccine as long as it has been six months since they were last vaccinated or infected with COVID-19.

Along with getting vaccinated, everyone is encouraged to use "layers of protection to help lower the risk of getting and spreading infection. These layers include: Staying home if you're sick Cleaning your hands often Spending time outdoors or in well-ventilated indoor spaces Practicing respiratory etiquette by covering coughs and sneezes Wearing a mask

By using layers of protection, we not only help protect ourselves, but also those at risk of a severe outcomes, such as hospitalization or even death, from getting infected, Kasmani said.

Ali added that Niagara Health has infection prevention and control measures in place at its sites and has started its annual flu vaccine campaign for high-risk patients and staff and physicians.

More information about vaccines, and where to get them, can be found on the Public Health website.

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Time to get up to date with COVID, flu vaccines: Public Health - PelhamToday.ca

MORNING SHOW

Published:December 13, 2023, 8:39 AM

Every year, a new flu shot is created based on different factors, like which types of the virus are expected to be the most common. But, that could change in the future.

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Creating a universal flu vaccine - WJXT News4JAX

Published 10:20 am Tuesday, December 12, 2023

There have always been good reasons to get a flu shot for most people. But with COVID cases on the rise in our area the last thing you want to come down with is with both the seasonal flu and Coronavirus. The flu seasons run from October to March. The medical system is already stressed. It doesnt need more burdens from the flu season. Thankfully, there is a vaccine for the flu. It wont work for everyone but it is likely to reduce the symptoms if you do contact the virus. Health experts say it is not too late to get your flu shot. Here are the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control for flu shots: CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses. While there are many different flu viruses, a flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common. Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors visits and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year before flu activity begins in their community. Health experts also recommend getting vaccinated early this year. Vaccination of high-risk persons is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness. People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children; pregnant women; people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease; and people 65 years and older. Vaccination also is important for health care workers and other people who live with or care for high-risk people to keep from spreading flu to them. Children younger than 6 months are at high risk of serious flu illness, but are too young to be vaccinated. People who care for infants should be vaccinated instead. Both for those who have and those who have not gotten the flu vaccine this season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these recommendations to reduce your chances of getting sick and to manage your sickness if you do: Try to avoid close contact with sick people. While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. If you are sick with a flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs such as the flu. It should also be remembered that the hospital emergency room is not the first line of defense for battling the flu. A visit to a primary health care physician or after-hours clinic may be necessary if symptoms warrant but the emergency room should be reserved for emergencies. Although vaccine effectiveness varies from year to year, recent studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness by between 40% and 60% among the overall population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu vaccines have a good safety record. Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines over the past 50 years. Extensive research supports the safety of seasonal flu vaccines. Most of us would rather take our chance with a flu vaccine rather than getting the flu.

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Flu shots are more important than ever - Elizabethton.com

While influenza viruses (flu virus) spread year-round, most flu activity peaks between December and February.

The flu vaccine is your best bet for avoiding getting and/or spreading influenza this winter. This year's seasonal flu vaccines each provide protection against four of the most common flu viruses.

The flu vaccine can be found at many local hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

To find a location near you, please visit https://www.vaccines.gov/find-vaccines/.

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This Holiday Season, Spread Cheer and Joy, Not the Flu - Portage.Life

Are you still unsure about getting the flu vaccine this winter?

A recent meta-analysis study published in "Scientific Reports" suggests that the flu vaccine offers more than just protection against the flu. Among individuals who received the flu vaccine, there was a 26% decrease in the risk of heart attacks and a 33% decrease in deaths from cardiovascular diseases.

Conducted by researchers from the University of Tehran, the study analyzed data from 9,059 patients with an average age of 61.3 years. Of these, 4,529 received the flu vaccine while 4,530 were given a placebo. The participants were monitored for approximately nine months.

The study compared data from five different studies that examined both cardiovascular health and flu vaccination status. Results showed that those who received the flu vaccine experienced significantly fewer major cardiovascular events, with 517 events compared to 621 events in the placebo group.

The researchers propose several theories as to why the flu vaccine protects heart health, including its ability to reduce inflammation caused by the flu, prevent secondary infections, and stabilize atherosclerotic plaque, which can be weakened during the flu.

While the study findings suggest a strong association between flu vaccine recipients and a lower risk of cardiovascular events, the researchers emphasize the need for further research to clarify the precise mechanisms behind this association and explore the long-term effects of influenza vaccination on the cardiovascular system.

Considering the potential to save lives, the researchers recommend that doctors prioritize vaccination as a preventive measure for patients already suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

However, despite the numerous benefits of the vaccine, Israel has seen a significant decrease in flu vaccinations this year. Representatives from various health insurance funds reported this during a recent Knesset's Health Committee discussion. The decline in vaccination rates was particularly noticeable among adults over 65, who had the highest flu-related deaths last year. Approximately 80% of individuals who died from flu complications belonged to this age group, with 7,287 confirmed flu-related hospitalizations and 266 deaths during the previous season.

Considering the current situation, is it too late to get vaccinated? According to a health fund report, only 41% of individuals aged 65 and over received the flu vaccine last winter, compared to about 49% in the previous season. Significant decreases were also observed in other risk groups, except pregnant women. The data provided indicates that only 10.4% of all insured individuals have been vaccinated so far this year, compared to 13.2% during the same period last year.

The Ministry of Health estimates, based on the CDC's projections, suggest that 8-15% of the population may be affected by influenza, with half of them seeking medical attention. Additionally, they estimate 8,000-18,000 hospitalizations and 1,000-1,500 deaths related to flu.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing influenza ranges from 40-60% in the general population, depending on factors such as age and overall health.

So, is it too late to get vaccinated for the current winter season? Experts from the Centers for Disease Control in the United States (CDC) suggest receiving the vaccine late rather than not at all, which is better. They emphasize that the influenza season typically peaks around February, making it still worthwhile to get vaccinated now.

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Could getting a flu shot reduce your chances of having a heart attack? - The Jerusalem Post

Human trials for universal flu vaccine may start as COVID, flu cases begin to rise

by LEE STOLL | KOMO Staff

FILE - A patient receives a flu shot. (KOMO News file photo)

WASHINGTON (KOMO)

If you're traveling for the holidays, be aware. Respiratory illness cases are going up in parts of the country.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 15 states, including California and South Carolina, are seeing high or very high levels of respiratory illnesses.

RSV hospitalizations are elevated among children under four and are increasing in adults over the age of 65.

There is an RSV vaccine the CDC is recommending for adults over the age of 60 and for pregnant women. We could be close to a universal flu vaccine that would protect against all strains of the virus.

"We've now done all our preclinical testing and we are in the manufacturing stage of our vaccines to do a human trial in 2024 and in 2025," said Ted Ross, global director of vaccine development at the Cleveland Clinic.

As of Dec. 5th, the number of people heading to the emergency room for COVID-19 is up 7% week to week. It's up 20% for the flu. Visits for RSV are flat.

The CDC is tracking a rising COVID subvariant called JN.1, which is estimated to be making up more than 20% of current cases nationwide.

There is no evidence JN.1 is more severe than previous variants and tests, vaccines and treatments are still expected to be effective.

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Human trials for universal flu vaccine may start as COVID, flu cases begin to rise - KATU

Buncombe County reports first flu-related death of the 2023 - 2024 season

by Kari Barrows

FILE - Flu vaccine - Buncombe County Health and Human Services received notification on Dec. 11, 2023, regarding the first reported flu-associated death of a Buncombe County resident during the 202324 flu season. (Photo credit: WLOS staff)

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS)

Buncombe County health officials say the first county resident has been reported deceased from a flu-related death.

Buncombe County Health and Human Services received notification on Dec. 11, 2023, regarding the first reported flu-associated death of a Buncombe County resident during the 202324 flu season. A release from county government says in order to protect the family, no other information will be released.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the first flu-related death in our Buncombe County community," Buncombe County Public Health Director Dr. Ellis Matheson said in Tuesday's press release. "We take the seasonal flu seriously, recognizing its potential for severe illness and even fatality. We strongly encourage the community to take preventive measures against influenza and other circulating respiratory illnesses. Now is the time to get vaccinated, especially before participating in seasonal celebrations with friends and family. Additional precautions include staying up-to-date on vaccinations, practicing good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home if feeling unwell.

The CDC recommends flu vaccination every year for everyone 6 months and older. In addition to being the best way to prevent infection with the flu, vaccination can also make illness milder for those who do get the flu. Certain groups are at higher risk for serious illness from flu, including children younger than five, pregnant women, people over 65 and those with certain chronic medical conditions such as heart or lung disease.

Anyone who thinks they have the flu should contact their doctor right away to see if they need treatment with a prescription antiviral drug. Early treatment with an antiviral drug can help prevent flu infections from becoming more serious. Individuals who feel ill should call ahead before going to a doctors office, urgent care or other provider to avoid exposing others. COVID-19 and flu symptoms are similar, so consult with a doctor about getting tested for flu and/or COVID-19. Flu symptoms include:

Public Health officials urge the community to get vaccinated if you havent already taken this step. Flu vaccinations are widely available in the community including private medical offices, pharmacies, health departments, and health centers. Layer up your protection by washing your hands often, choosing less crowded spaces and events, and wearing a mask during times of higher respiratory illness circulation in addition to getting vaccinated. North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides information on seasonal flu levels on this webpage.

Dont let the flu stop you this winter. Check out the flu shot locator page, enter your zip code, and get your flu shot today.

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Buncombe County reports first flu-related death of the 2023 - 2024 season - WLOS

December 07, 2023

48 min listen

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It's that time of year again, everyone rolling up their sleeves to get a flu shot. This episode dives into the history of the struggles pinning down the causative agent of flu and the journey to the vaccine!

Disclosures: Brown reports no relevant financial disclosures.

Wed love to hear from you! Send your comments/questions to Dr. Brown at rheuminationspodcast@healio.com. Follow us on Twitter @HRheuminations @AdamJBrownMD @HealioRheum.

References:

Hicks DJ, et al. Clin Exp Immunol. 2012;doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2012.04592.x.

Rosenau MJ. Experiments Upon Volunteers to Determine the Cause and Mode of Spread of Influenza, Boston, November and December, 1918. https://quod.lib.umich.edu/f/flu/3750flu.0016.573. Published February 1921. Accessed December 6, 2023.

Rosenau MJ, et al. JAMA. 1925;doi:10.1001/jama.1925.02670070040019.

Taubenberger JK, et al. Antivir Ther. 2007;12(4 Pt B):581-91.

Tobin J. The first flu shot. https://heritage.umich.edu/stories/the-first-flu-shot/. Accessed December 6, 2023.

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The Story of the Flu Vaccine - Healio

Protecting Older Adults: Why the flu vaccine is crucial this season

by We Are Austin

Chad Worz talks about why getting a flu vaccine is important for everyone

Did you know complications from the flu become more serious as we age? With so much focus on COVID-19, many people may have forgotten how dangerous the flu can be. Chad Worz, Chief Executive of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists is here to talk about why getting a flu vaccine is important for everyone, but especially important for older adults and vulnerable populations this holiday season.

Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @WeAreAustin and find us on Facebook at We Are Austin Lifestyle Show.

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Protecting Older Adults: Why the flu vaccine is crucial this season - KEYE TV CBS Austin

Flu cases are increasing in many parts of the country, including in Harris County. As we are in the holiday season, getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick with the flu. It takes about two weeks for the vaccine to provide protection in your body, so schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

HCPH recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine. If you want to receive additional seasonal shots, like COVID-19 or RSV, the CDC confirms that it is safe to get them all at the same time.

Follow these simple steps to help keep you and your loved ones from getting the flu or passing it on to others:

Call 832-927-7575 or visit http://www.hcphtx.org to schedule your flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccines are free for most people. Visit vaccines.gov, texasflu.org, or contact your healthcare provider for more information.

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'Tis the season to prevent the flu | Health | theleadernews.com - The Leader News