New Research Shows that Flu Vaccines Cut ICU Admission Risks

A new study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases has shown some promising research about the effectiveness of flu vaccinations for children. The research produced in the study is groundbreaking in that it is the first to analyze the relationship between vaccine efficacy and admissions to pediatric intensive care units. The medical records of 216 children between the ages of 6 months and 17 years old were analyzed for the study. All of these children had been admitted to pediatric intensive care units during the flu seasons of 2010-2011 and 2011-2012. The researchers found that children who were vaccinated against the flu reduced their risk of ending up in intensive care due to flu complications by 74 percent. Thus, being vaccinated protects children against serious flu complications.

Children under the age of 5 are at high risk for contracting the flu and developing life-threatening complications. This new study shows that vaccination of children and the adults around them is the best way to keep them from falling seriously ill during the flu season.

How Can I Protect Myself and My Children from the Flu?

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The MMR Vaccine: Can it Prevent Other Infections?

New research has revealed that children who receive an on-schedule measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination are less likely to be infected with other illnesses. In a study published by the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers found that the half a million Danish children they studied were less likely to be admitted to hospitals for respiratory infections or other general illnesses if they were vaccinated properly and received the regular scheduled vaccinations, including MMR. In addition to its protection against mumps, measles, and rubella, the study seems that the MMR vaccine may have a positive effect on a person’s immune system, enabling them to fight off these general infections, including those of the lower respiratory tract, which often require longer hospitalization periods.

However, there are still misconceptions about the effects of the MMR vaccine on children. This is due to a combination of misinformation and personal beliefs, even when studies such as these continue to highlight the importance of receiving the MMR vaccine on time.

What is the MMR Vaccine? Should I Get One?

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Injection Anxiety: Does it Affect Recall Abilities in Travelers?

Many of us remember being frightened of needles and injections when we were young. Although most people outgrow this fear or learn to live with the slight anxiety that may be triggered, others develop a very real phobia of needles. They may shake, sweat or even pass out. People with a fear of injections may try to avoid them whenever possible, even when doing so is detrimental to their health.

A new study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine has suggested that injection anxiety and/or needle phobia can actually have a negative impact on the recipient’s ability to recall important health information that is verbally communicated to them at the time of the vaccination. This study used the responses of 105 participants in order to test their ability to remember what was told to them during a vaccination at a travel health clinic. Participants completed a questionnaire before and after the procedure and the information was compiled and analyzed.

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Signs of Post-Travel Sickness

When most people return from a trip to an exotic location, they bring home photos, keepsakes, and gift items for family and friends. However, fever, upset stomach, and other physical ailments can also accompany a traveler home. Although most post-travel symptoms are generally mild and may be similar to the common cold or mild digestive system upset, there are some signs that may indicate a more serious problem. People who experience unusual or more severe symptoms following a trip abroad should seek medical attention immediately.

Signs of Illness

Persistent or high fever in people who have recently visited countries in which malaria is a concern should report their symptoms to a healthcare professional immediately. Malaria may occur even in travelers who have taken malaria prophylaxis prior to traveling, and the onset of fever may not emerge until as many as 30 days after initial infection. Therefore, it is important to report your travel itinerary to your doctor, even if the trip occurred months ago, as the incubation period for malaria can be lengthy.

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Travel Health Clinics: More Important Than You Might Think

Many people tend to travel abroad without much thought as to how they will protect their health during their trip. However, consulting a travel health specialist is key to having a successful and safe trip. Even if the specialist just imparts advice to the traveler, the specialist will still be providing him or her with the tools needed to stay healthy overseas. When in need of the expertise provided by a travel health clinic, how do you choose the right one?

No two clinics are alike. Doing your homework before choosing one is highly recommended and there are five questions to consider as you search for a travel health specialist or clinic.

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