Influenza

Safety and Efficacy: IV Zanamivir vs Oral Oseltamivir in Severe Influenza

By

Cindy Lampner

Intravenous zanamivir is as safe and effective as oral oseltamivir when used in patients with severe influenza.

Probiotics May Reduce Costs for Flu-Like Respiratory Tract Infections

Cost savings could include reductions in respiratory tract infections, antibiotic prescriptions, and sick days.

CDC: Updated Influenza Vaccination Recommendations for 2019-2020

By

Diana Ernst, RPh

The ACIP has issued new guidelines for the prevention and control of seasonal influenza with vaccines for the 2019–2020 season.

Pediatric Influenza Vaccine Guidelines Updated for 2019-2020 Season

Any form of licensed, age-appropriate influenza vaccine is acceptable, with no preferred formulation or product.

Updated ACIP Recommendations for 2019-2020 Influenza Season

The two primary updates include the addition of hemagglutinin derived from an A/Brisbane/02/2018 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus, an A/Kansas/14/2017 (H3N2)-like virus, and a B/Colorado/06/2017-like virus (Victoria lineage) to the 2019 to 2020 US trivalent influenza vaccines.

Influenza Vaccine Linked to Better Outcomes in Elderly ICU Survivors

Elderly patients who are vaccinated have lower risk for stroke and death in year following ICU discharge.

FDA Warns of “Cure-All” Products That Actually Contain Bleach

By

Brian Park, PharmD

The FDA is warning consumers to stop using products known as Miracle or Master Mineral Solution due to numerous reports of significant health issues.

Educational Handout May Increase Receipt of Child Influenza Vaccine

Providing educational intervention in waiting room before pediatric provider visit may be beneficial.

CDC: 2017-2018 Influenza Season Led to High Workplace Absenteeism

The peak level was significantly higher than the average during previous 5 influenza seasons,