Viral Infections
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The Race Is On for a Universal Flu Vaccine, as Another Virus Emerges in China
One expert described "the perfect influenza vaccine" as one that would protect against many different kinds of influenza A as well as but some influenza B strains.
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus: Effective Prevention Still Needed
Prevention of respiratory syncytial virus infection is needed but challenging. New studies show some favorable effectiveness on infant outcomes with both vaccination of healthy pregnant women and passive single-dose immunization of prematurely born babies.
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Investigators Find Substance Use Disorders Make Patients More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Such disorders can compromise lungs and cardiovascular system, which may explain the susceptibility.
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‘Hygiene Theater’
In a study of surfaces contaminated by an actual patient, no viable virus could be found. Similar studies of common community coronavirus found the virus survived less than one to three hours after drying on various surfaces, including surgical gloves and aluminum. People’s fears have been exaggerated by bad science and worse public policy.
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Repeat Infections with Endemic Coronaviruses and Possible Implications for COVID-19
Repeat infection with endemic seasonal coronavirus occurs commonly and raises concerns about immunity to SARS-CoV-2 as well as about the efficacy of vaccines in the protection against infection because of this virus.
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The COVID-19 Pandemic: What Comes Next? Lessons from Seasonal Coronaviruses
In temperate regions other than China, human seasonal coronaviruses circulate most heavily during the winter months, overlapping with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus. This may be the eventual pattern for SARS-CoV-2.
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Natural History Study Focuses on Unlocking Mysteries of Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Non-polio enteroviruses have been suspected as the primary culprits causing acute flaccid myelitis. However, it is clear now that other viruses can cause the illness.
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Another Outbreak of Acute Flaccid Myelitis Could Complicate COVID-19 Response
If previous patterns hold true, there could be an outbreak this year of acute flaccid myelitis, the frightening polio-like condition the CDC has been studying since 2014. Public health experts advise frontline providers to be particularly attuned to patients presenting with the hallmark limb weakness, and to report such cases promptly to their state health department.
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Rural Hospitals Struggle Amid Budgetary Constraints, Reporting Requirements
The COVID-19 pandemic response has pushed many rural hospitals to the brink, placing added strains on skeletal workforces that have long struggled to meet the healthcare needs of their communities. While some smaller facilities are pitching in to help larger, urban centers manage capacity, others have seen their patient volumes dwindle as fear keeps patients from accessing needed care. Most conclude the pandemic is highlighting the need for change in the way healthcare is delivered to rural communities.
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Confusion, Skepticism Abound Regarding Convalescent Plasma as a COVID-19 Therapeutic
From collection to analysis to reporting, it seems everyone registered a complaint about the entire process.