MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'influenza'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:53:46 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174612&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fchinese-study-compares-flu-treatments-prescription-drug-vs-herbal-remedy%2F2011.08.29 During the early days of the 2009 H1N1 influenza A pandemic, the popular herbal formula maxingshigan–yinqiaosan was used widely by TCM practitioners to reduce symptoms. (It’s hard to pronounce and spell, so I’ll refer to it as M-Y.) A new study was done to test whether M-Y worked and to compare it to the prescription drug oseltamivir. It showed that M-Y did not work for the purpose it was being used for: it did not reduce symptoms, although it did reduce the duration of one sign, fever, allowing researchers to claim they had proved that it works as well as oseltamivir. “Oseltamivir Compared With the Chinese Traditional Therapy: Maxingshigan–Yinqiaosan in the Treatment of H1N1 Influenza” by Wang et al. was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine earlier this month. The stu... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174612 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:51 +0100 5174612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5138184&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F8MToUG_pI7U%2F Hosts: Alan Dove and Rich Condit Alan and Rich tackle the discovery of bacteriophages, and treating influenza by calming the cytokine storm. Click the arrow above to play, or right-click to download TWiV 145 (63 MB .mp3, 87 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: Twort on the nature of ultra-microscopic viruses (Lancet) Who discovered bacteriophage? (pdf, Bact Rev) Calming cytokine storm to treat influenza (PNAS) TWiV on Facebook Letters read on TWiV 145 Weekly Science Picks Alan – AT&T Tech Channel Rich – Smallpox and its eradication (pdf) Listener Pick of the Week Asif – Science Photo Library Send your virology questions ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5138184 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 22:21:48 +0100 5138184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5061744&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FUvxf1VTOQmI%2F Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Rich Condit, Julie Overbaugh, and Stacey Schultz-Cherry Vincent, Rich, Julie and Stacey recorded TWiV at the 30th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Virology in Minneapolis, where they discussed the role of neutralizing antibodies in protection against HIV-1 infection, and astroviruses, agents of gastroenteritis. Click the arrow above to play, or right-click to download TWiV 143 (48 MB .mp3, 66 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: HIV-1 neutralizing antibodies and risk of infant infection (J Virol) Astrovirus increases epithelial barrier (J Virol) Virology special reviews issue (open access) Don Ganem interrup... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5061744 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 15:47:58 +0100 5061744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5051235&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F0aGEPpZ3D4M%2F Several months after a curious link was observed between the GlaxoSmithKline pandemic flu vaccine known as Pandremix and unexplained cases of narcolepsy emerged in Finland and Sweden, the European Medicines Agency has decided to restrict usage. Specifically, those younger than 20 years old should use Pandemrix only in the absence of seasonal trivalent flu vaccines, and if immunization against H1N1 swine flu is still needed. An example would be those at risk of complications from infection, according to the EMA (read here). However, the EMA notes that, for now, the benefits continue to outweigh the risks. Over 31 million doses of Pandemrix have been administered worldwide in 47 countries, according to Glaxo. And a total of 335 cases of narcolepsy in people vaccinated with Pandemrix have bee... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5051235 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:52:53 +0100 5051235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4801883&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FAjU2KX-f-9Q%2F Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Rich Condit, Dickson Despommier, Alan Dove, and Alfred Sacchetti Vincent, Rich, Alan, and Dickson speak with Alfred Sacchetti, MD, Chief of Emergency Services at Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center, about viral infections encountered in the emergency room. Click the arrow above to play, or right-click to download TWiV #132 (48 MB .mp3, 100 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: Dr. Sacchetti’s posts at EM-blog Molluscum contagiousum TWiV on Facebook Letters read on TWiV 132 Weekly Science Picks Al – The Physics of Superheroes and NKT Watch Dickson - Fibonacci Fun by Trudi Hammel Garland and Rachel Gage... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4801883 Mon, 09 May 2011 00:21:43 +0100 4801883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789252&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ffluphone-tracks-super-spreaders-of-disease%2F2011.05.04 “Are you a super-spreader?” That’s the catchphrase for a new study out of the University of Cambridge. However, if you answered “yes”, you may want to stay home and cover your mouth, because the study was designed to track the spread of influenza using cellular phone technology. The study (and accompanying app) is called FluPhone, and it uses cell phones to collect information on social encounters within the study sample of participants in Cambridge. A phone’s Bluetooth antenna detects encounters with other participants and also records the proximity to each other. The built-in GPS chip tracks each user’s location, but this feature was disabled due to recent ethical concerns. Finally, the phone’s 3G/GPRS antenna sends all the proximity data a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789252 Wed, 04 May 2011 16:00:55 +0100 4789252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4759481&cid=t_106584_10_f&fid=35345&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.GIDEONonline.com%2F2011%2F04%2F27%2Favian-influenza-h5n1-graphic-summary%2F The attached graph summarizes successive waves in the occurrence of Influenza H5N1 among individual countries. Incidence peaked in Thailand in 2004, Vietnam in 2005 and Indonesia in 2006; while most reports during 2009 to 2010 originated from Egypt. [1] References: 1. Berger SA. Infectious Diseases of the World, 2011. 987 pp, 383 graphs, 12,492 references. Gideon e-books, http://www.gideononline.com/ebooks/country/infectious-diseases-of-the-world/ (Source: GIDEON blog) GIDEON blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4759481 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 05:02:03 +0100 4759481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4622345&cid=t_106584_113_f&fid=39278&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblogsite.mdbuyline.com%2F%3Fp%3D217 A highly sensitive laboratory test that uses gold nanoparticles caught my interest.  The need for accuracy has allowed DNA laboratory tests for genetics and infectious diseases to become the standard of care.  But, when it comes to infectious diseases, speed and ease of use can make a test much more valuable. Each year, over 12 million patients will seek emergency room treatment for flu symptoms.  These patients may spend hours in the ER and 200,000 will eventually be hospitalized.  One concern of respiratory viruses is pandemic influenza control.  Historical data shows that rapid tests used to detect outbreaks in institutions play an important role in controlling pandemic influenza. Researchers have developed the Verigene System, which uses DNA probes that coat the molecules of inter... MD Buyline blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4622345 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 17:08:48 +0100 4622345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4580897&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2011%2F03%2F13%2Ftoo-little-too-late%2F In a Press Release dated August 3, 2010 about the European Union’s Parliament plenary session and adopted resolutions, it seems that several items of business need to be noted and called to the attention of the U.S. HHS, CDC, FDA, U.S. Supreme Court, and—most of all—the U.S. Congress. First, and probably foremost: “Assessments of and communication about flu outbreaks must be more independent, says the resolution. Safeguards are needed to prevent conflicts of interest. For example, declarations of interest by experts who advise European health authorities should be published. And under EU legislation, full liability for vaccines must lie with the manufacturer, not Member States.” [Emphasis added] (http://www.europarl.europa.eu/en/pressroom…) How come in the USA vaccine manu... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4580897 Sun, 13 Mar 2011 14:33:51 +0100 4580897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4532570&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F8IsrwzAqM_A%2F Top of the morning to you. A sunny day is unfolding here on the Pharmalot corporate campus, where we are, once again, hustling short people off to this or that school house. Nonetheless, we are also reaching for our mandatory cup of stimulation - our flavor today is Cinnamon Cream Swirl - and looking about for interesting items. Please let us know if you spot something yourself. Meanwhile, have a great day… Daiichi To Buy Plexxicon For Up To $935M (Bloomberg News) Pharma Job Outlook Bleak In Europe As Sites Are Closed (Reuters) Forest And Nycomed Win FDA Approval For COPD Drug (Associated Press) Elan Pleads Guilty In Zonegran Marketing (Boston Business Journal) Feds Award $215M For Flu Vaccine Development (Associated Press) UK’s NICE Wants More Data On Roche Cancer Drug (Dow Jo... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4532570 Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:02:23 +0100 4532570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4521814&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FTxMh5AyY0-k%2F From the New York Times: Dr. Edwin D. Kilbourne, a medical researcher who figured out how to outwit fast-evolving flu germs, developing a new vaccine each year by intermingling genes of different disease strains, died Monday in Branford, Conn. He was 90. I’m saddened by Dr. Kilbourne’s passing – he was the Chairman of the Department of Microbiology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, during the years when I did my Ph.D. research. Dr. Kilbourne had many accomplishments during his research career, but three stand out in my mind. First, he devised a method for producing high-yielding recombinant vaccine strains. The seasonal influenza virus strains often do not multiply well in embryonated eggs; he solved this problem by crossing them with a virus strain, called PR8,... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4521814 Fri, 25 Feb 2011 22:29:58 +0100 4521814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4636109&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV121.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Michael Katze, Michael Gale, Deborah Fuller, and Shawn Iadonato Episode #121 of the podcast This Week in Virology is a conversation about careers in virology, systems biology, innate immunity, and antiviral research recorded at the University of Washington in Seattle. Download TWiV #121 (65 MB .mp3, 90 minutes). To download, right-click or control-click on the link, then select save as. Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: A systems biology approach to infectious disease research (mBio) Infectious Curiosity (thanks, Gopal!) Astronomy Cast (thanks, Jacob!) The Journal of Negative Results (thanks, Patricia!) Scientist Solutions... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4636109 Sun, 20 Feb 2011 23:23:10 +0100 4636109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4495206&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fapp-tracking-the-flu%2F2011.02.18 As a part of the TheraFlu campaign, Novartis has developed free Android, Blackberry and iPhone applications for tracking flu outbreaks in the U.S. These days it’s become inevitable to develop free apps on all platforms in order to promote your product. From Novartis: Keep up-to-date on the most active cold and flu reports around the country. The WheresFlu™ app follows sickness incidence levels from week to week and keeps track of the current top 5 affected cities in the nation. The WheresFlu™ app will find your current location and provide you with results for that area. Or you can enter a ZIP code to get information for that area. If you’re wondering how it actually works and how it differs from Google Flu Trends, here it is: WheresFlu™ measures weekly activity for cold ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4495206 Fri, 18 Feb 2011 14:00:39 +0100 4495206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4478161&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FE4YxlSrSI60%2F The use of language is a subtle art. Ask any regulator. And the regulators at the FDA have determined that Novartis was a bit too subtle, perhaps, in trying to promote its Fluvirin vaccine for the flu. The agency recently issued a warning letter that chastised the drugmaker for distributing a sales aid and print advertisement that were deemed misleading. Specifically, the promotional materials incorrectly characterized a published recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and implied the Novartis vaccine can be used in all age ranges covered by the ACIP recommendations, according to the FDA letter, which was issued on February 4. For the current flu season, the ACIP recommended annual vaccination including infants who ... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4478161 Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:22:30 +0100 4478161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450519&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F9T71D5oU0mg%2F After reviewing data generated by researchers from Finland, the World Health Organization agrees that a curious link between the GlaxoSmithKline pandemic flu vaccine and narcolepsy should be investigated. And so the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control is now conducting epidemiological studies of narcolepsy and pandemic influenza vaccines…plural. The move comes after Finland’s National Narcolepsy Task Force last week reported an increased risk of narcolepsy among 4 to 19-year-olds who were vaccinated with Glaxo’s Pandemrix. A similar increase in cases have also been reported in Sweden and Iceland. However, the Finnish researchers conceded the findings were inconclusive and more research was needed (look here). The report generated controversy not only because of... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450519 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:20:21 +0100 4450519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450523&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FujKHiAQXNLE%2F Hello, everyone, and welcome to a brand new day. Here on the Pharmalot corporate campus we are getting our start by hustling our short people off to the local school houses. And you? No doubt, you are readying for another round of meetings and deadlines. To help you along, we have gathered some tidbits. Meanwhile, please join us for a cup of stimulation. Hope your day goes well and stay in touch… Merck-Serono Opens R&D Site, Adding 100 Jobs (Boston Business Journal) Roche’s Avastin Works In Late-Stage Trial For Ovarian Cancer (Reuters) Teva Earnings Miss Analyst Estimates (Bloomberg News) Has RNAi Fever Cooled? (The New York Times) Black Box Warnings Are Applied Inconsistently (Health Day) Glaxo To Move Philadelphia Offices, Denies Job Cuts (Philadelphia Inquirer) Schizoph... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450523 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 13:06:18 +0100 4450523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4418797&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F02yUppO3s6Y%2F Frederick Hayden, Professor of Medicine and Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, U.K., has focused on the use of antiviral agents to prevent and treat respiratory viral infections. His interests range from the use of in vitro assays to study viral susceptibility and antiviral mechanisms of action, to clinical trials utilizing experimentally induced and naturally occurring infections. Work from his laboratory includes the demonstration that intranasal administration of interferons can prevent transmission of rhinovirus colds, studies of transmission of drug-resistant influenza A viruses in families, and the antiviral activity and clinical use of influenza neuraminidase inhibitors. His laboratory currently focuses on the application of nucleic acid hybridization to study rhi... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4418797 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:23:48 +0100 4418797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4418798&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV118.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #118 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich answer listener questions about vaccinia virus, fungal viruses, synthetic viruses, influenza vaccine, HeLa cells, multiplicity of infection, and much more. Right click to download TWiV #118 (68 MB .mp3, 94  minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with the Microbeworld app. Links for this episode: Distribution of glycoproteins on virion surface (paper 1, paper 2) – thanks, Conor! Susceptibility of cancer cell lines to tanapox (thanks, Cheryl!) Poxvirus family tree Sugar, the bitter truth (YouTube) – thanks, Mary! BBC podcast: Artificial life (thank... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4418798 Sun, 30 Jan 2011 17:54:39 +0100 4418798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394518&cid=t_106584_107_f&fid=36672&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencebase.com%2Fscience-blog%2Fscience-news-5.html Latest science news snippets from Sciencebase Bee team funded by Bayer – It is revealed that the lead investigator in the study that recently published results suggesting that bee colony collapse disorder (CCD) is due to the combined effect of a virus and a fungus is funded by the insecticide company (Bayer). The researcher denies that this funding is connected to the research, it pays for other work, but you can't help but wonder whether there is a conflict of interest here. Who’s your favourite scientist? – Who's your favourite scientist? For me it has to be Feynman, although Faraday would be a close second, oh and perhaps Sagan, and then there's Curie, and Kroto…oh the list goes on… Definition of a chemistry research paper – I've ... Sciencebase Science Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394518 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 10:56:48 +0100 4394518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4377228&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV116.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #116 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Dickson, Alan, and Rich review an adenovirus-based vaccine strategy against drug addiction, a field trial of RNAi to prevent Israeli acute paralysis virus infection in honeybees, and suppression of avian influenza transmission in transgenic chickens. Right click to download TWiV #116 (64 MB .mp3, 89 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Cocaine analog coupled to disrupted adenovirus Field application of RNAi in honeybees Suppression of avian influenza transmission in GM chickens (EurekAlert) Phage tailspike protein therapy Use... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4377228 Sun, 16 Jan 2011 20:02:43 +0100 4377228 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4343127&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Finfluenza-its-not-just-the-flu%2F2011.01.13 One of our readers suggested that I review the book The Great Influenza: The Epic Story of the Deadliest Plague in History, by John M. Barry. It’s not a new book (it was published in 2004) but it is very pertinent to several of the issues that we have been discussing on this blog, especially in regards to the current anti-vaccine movement. It’s well worth reading for its historical insights, for its illumination of the scientific method, and for its accurate reporting of what science has learned about influenza. In the great flu epidemic of 1918, influenza killed as many people in 24 weeks as AIDS has killed in 24 years. It’s hard to even imagine what that must have been like, but this book helps us imagine it. It tells horror stories: Children found alone and starving beside the cor... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4343127 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 20:00:51 +0100 4343127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394521&cid=t_106584_107_f&fid=36672&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencebase.com%2Fscience-blog%2Fscience-news-3.html International Year of Chemistry, "Naturally" – Nature's take on the launch of the International Year of Chemistry 2011 (IYC11) Stinging vision – A group of school children aged between 8 and 10 years old have had their school science project accepted for publication in an internationally recognised peer-reviewed journal. The paper, which reports novel findings in how bumblebees perceive colour, is published in the Royal Society journal Biology Letters. Physical Methods – Organophoshorus Chemistry provides a comprehensive and critical review of the recent literature. Coverage includes phosphines and their chalcogenides, phosphonium salts, low coordination number phosphorus compounds, penta- and hexa- coordinated compounds, tervalent phosphorus acid derivativ... Sciencebase Science Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394521 Wed, 12 Jan 2011 11:26:04 +0100 4394521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4337541&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2Fderek_smith.mp4 Derek Smith, Professor of Infectious Disease Informatics, University of Cambridge, U.K., has developed a method for visualizing antigenic evolution by creating two-dimensional maps in a process called antigenic cartography. These maps are made with data that provide information on the antigenic properties of the pathogen. In the case of influenza virus, the data come from measuring the ability of an antiviral antibody to inhibit hemagglutination – binding of virions to red blood cells. Such maps show how amino acid changes can affect antibody binding to virus particles, which cannot be done by comparing nucleotide sequences of different virus isolates. By charting influenza virus strains in this way, it should be possible to better understand genetic and antigenic evolution. I discussed ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4337541 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 16:05:04 +0100 4337541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4337542&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV114.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #114 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich revisit ten compelling virology stories of 2010. Right click to download TWiV #114 (64 MB .mp3, 88 minutes). Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Ten virology stories of 2010: XMRV, CFS, and prostate cancer (TWiV 113, 99, 98, 94, 89, 76, 70, 65) The ongoing saga of polio eradication (TWiV 110, 79) Viruses interact with the miRNA/siRNA system (TWiV 108, 72) Endogenous viruses – retro and beyond (TWiV 105, 91, 88, 65) Dengue virus progress and new outbreak (TWiV 111, 95, 82) Colony collapse disorder (TWiV 104) David Baltimore (TWiV 100) Ode... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4337542 Sun, 02 Jan 2011 17:43:12 +0100 4337542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4277636&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV112.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #112 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Alan, and Rich review the making of a virulent poxvirus by insertion of the gene encoding IL-4, and severe 2009 H1N1 influenza due to pathogenic immune complexes. Download TWiV #112 (71 MB .mp3, 98 minutes). To download, right-click or control-click on the link, then select save as. Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Expression of IL-4 makes a killer poxvirus Additional studies on poxvirus-IL-4 recombinants Creation of killer poxvirus could have been predicted Interleukin regulation of Th responses Severe pandemic H1N1 disease due to immune... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4277636 Sun, 19 Dec 2010 18:45:01 +0100 4277636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4245011&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FsoDQyobQdZg%2F Influenza researcher Peter Palese visited yesterday and spoke about “Pandemic influenza: Past and Future”. A key part of his talk was a review of his efforts to produce a universal influenza vaccine which protects against all strains. He used the following graph to make the point that when influenza pandemic strains emerge, there is insufficient time to deliver a vaccine using current technology. Image source: CIDRAP The graph depicts the percentage of visits for influenza-like illness (ILI – the red line) and distribution of the swine-origin influenza vaccine (blue line) from September 2009 to May 2010 in the US. At the peak of ILI at the end of October 2009, fewer than 20 million doses of vaccine had been shipped. By the time 120 million doses had been distributed, infe... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4245011 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:15:05 +0100 4245011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4167360&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV107.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #107 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Dickson, Alan, and Rich answer listener questions about poliovirus, social media, dengue, influenza, evolution, gel filtration, and much more. Download TWiV #107 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: tre recombinase: paper one and two Universal influenza vaccines Mitochondrial and chlorophast phage-type RNA polymerase in plants Protein Data Bank Letters read on TWiV 107 Weekly Science Picks Rich – Protein Synthesis: An epic on the cellular level Dickson – The Patchwork Mouse by Joseph R.... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4167360 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 02:46:32 +0100 4167360 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4096785&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FvAP_q8lu_8s%2F After my lecture on influenza pathogenesis and evolution at the Northeast Laboratory Conference 2010 in Portland, Maine, I was asked if it is necessary to receive the influenza vaccine every year. This question was precipitated by my statement that the 2010-11 trivalent influenza vaccine contains the same swine-origin H1N1 strain as last year’s monovalent vaccine. That virus has not undergone sufficient antigenic drift to necessitate the formulation of a new vaccine. There are two main considerations* when deciding whether to be immunized yearly against influenza: the nature of the vaccine and age of the recipient. Last year’s seasonal influenza vaccine for the northern hemisphere contained the following strains: A/Brisbane/59/2007 (H1N1) A/Brisbane/10/2007 (H3N2) B/Brisbane/60/2008 ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4096785 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 21:59:55 +0100 4096785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4076860&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Ftraffic.libsyn.com%2Ftwiv%2FTWiV103.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and LJ Tan On Episode 103 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and Alan discuss influenza vaccines with LJ Tan of the American Medical Association. Download TWiV #103 (56 MB .mp3, 77 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: The American Medical Association Prevent Influenza Now Vaccine injury claim reaches Supreme Court Supreme Court divided on vaccine case No narcolepsy link to flu vaccine Letters read on TWiV 103 Weekly Science Picks Alan – BioGene, an iApp Vincent – The Vertical Farm by Dickson Despommier Send your virology questions and comments (email or mp3 file) to twiv@twiv.tv or leave ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4076860 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 19:35:05 +0100 4076860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4065001&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FzmYU5OnEXyI%2F The need to re-formulate the influenza virus vaccine in response to viral antigenic drift and shift makes for complex logistics of vaccine production and administration. Surveillance programs must be conducted each year to identify strains that are likely to predominate and cause disease. Wouldn’t it be simpler if a single vaccine could be developed that would confer protection against a broad range of viral strains? Results from the past year suggest that such a vaccine might be closer than previously thought. The influenza viral HA protein consists of a globular head atop a stem that is embedded in the virion membrane (figure). Most protective antibodies are directed against the head of the HA molecule. Rare antibodies that block infection with a broad range of influenza virus strains ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4065001 Wed, 13 Oct 2010 14:35:54 +0100 4065001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4060087&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV102.flv Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Andrew Baker, Karl-Klaus Conzelmann, Peter Palese, and Katharina Eisenächer Episode #102 of the podcast This Week in Virology is a conversation about the RNA sensor RIG-I, adenovirus gene therapy, a universal influenza vaccine, and rabies virus, recorded in Munich, Germany at the SFB455 symposium ‘Viral offense and immune defense’. Download TWiV #102 (67 MB .mp3, 95 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: SFB455 Symposium scientific program Letters read on TWiV 102 Virologists having fun (YouTube video) Video of this episode – view below or download .mov (394 MB) or .wmv (506 MB) Weekly Science Picks... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4060087 Mon, 11 Oct 2010 00:06:02 +0100 4060087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3998996&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2010%2F09%2F24%2Fflu-vaccine-caused-over-1000-adverse-reactions%2F Christina England Vactruth.com 09/24/2010 Yesterday, the Sydney Herald reported an astounding 1000 plus reports of adverse reactions following the flu vaccine, Fluvax. These reports included 100 reports of febrile convulsions. In her report, journalist Carol Bennett stated: “It showed the CSL-produced Fluvax and Fluvax Junior may have caused two to three hospital admissions due to seizure for every admission from flu it prevented”. // Febrile convulsions are caused when a child’s body rapidly overheats resulting in a seizure. The NetDoctor website gives insight into what a child suffering from a febrile convulsion looks like: The attack often begins with the child losing consciousness, and shortly afterwards the body, legs and arms go stiff. The head is thrown backwards and t... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3998996 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:05:03 +0100 3998996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3993815&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F22%2Fjournal-of-the-american-medical-association-2010-vol-304-no-10%2F This article compares clinical features and outcomes for 2009 H1N1, seasonal H1N1, and H3N2 influenza in a population-based cohort. In this population, individuals with 2009 H1N1 infection were younger than those with H3N2. The risk of most serious complications was not elevated in adults or children with 2009 H1N1 compared with recent seasonal strains. An NHS Athens password is required to access this article online, alternatively contact the Library for a copy. Filed under: Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Journals Tagged: Clinical Characteristics, H1N1, H3N2, Influenza (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3993815 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 06:24:13 +0100 3993815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3983290&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmwvideo.s3.amazonaws.com%2FICAAC-TWiV%2FTWiV99.wmv Host: Vincent Racaniello Vincent tours the 50th Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC) in Boston, speaking with exhibitors and visitors, including Professors Derek Smith, Michael Schmidt, Frederick Hayden, and Myra McClure. Many thanks to Chris Condayan and Ray Ortega of the American Society for Microbiology for recording and editing this episode. Download TWiV #99 (45 MB .mp3, 62 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: 50th ICAAC ICAAC daily press conference videos (including Prof. Myra McClure) Antigenic cartography Antimicrobial properties of copper Video of this episode – download .mp4 (1.99 GB) or .wmv (935 MB... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3983290 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 02:58:30 +0100 3983290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976501&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39261&url=http%3A%2F%2Fvactruth.com%2F2010%2F09%2F14%2Fbasic-human-rights-denied-as-governments-force-health-workers-to-be-vaccinated%2F Christina England Vactruth.com 09/14/2010 Health workers who refuse the flu vaccine this year, may ultimately go on to lose their jobs. This is the latest bully boy tactic used by the governments to ensure that all health workers are vaccinated against infectious diseases. Currently the percentage of health workers who are vaccinated against the flu virus, rocks around 50% with some hospitals last year reporting vaccinated workers to be as below 25% in some areas. The Los Angeles Times stated: “Earlier this week, the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology and the Infectious Diseases Society of America said that hospital workers should be required to get a flu shot or lose their jobs unless such an immunization is medically contra-indicated, such as by an allergy to eggs, which are used in m... vactruth.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976501 Tue, 14 Sep 2010 07:21:23 +0100 3976501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3935773&cid=t_106584_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F09%2Fprevention-infectious-disease-transmission-droplet-precautions%2F This protocol is generally used for infections of Group A streptococcus, rubella, mumps, pertussis, meningococcal disease, and Haemophilus influenzae. This precaution requires patients have a private room and a standard surgical mask is worn by all persons entering the room. Related Posts Mumps (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3935773 Mon, 06 Sep 2010 06:54:18 +0100 3935773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3920777&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F31%2Fjournal-of-the-american-medical-association-2010-vol-304-no-6%2F Contents Page Fade Fave: A 29-Year-Old Woman With Flu-like Symptoms: Review of Influenza Diagnosis and Treatment Fade Skinny: Using the case of Ms R, a 29-year-old woman who presented with acute onset of respiratory symptoms and was evaluated for influenza,considerations regarding symptoms and signs, evaluation, treatment, and prevention of influenza are discussed. Symptoms of influenza can be similar to those of other respiratory viruses, making diagnosis challenging. An NHS Athens password is required to access this article online, alternatively contact the Library for a copy of the article. Filed under: Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Journals Tagged: Diagnostics, Influenza, Symptoms (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3920777 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 12:57:36 +0100 3920777 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3868624&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV095.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit On episode #95 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Dickson, Alan, and Rich consider the end of the influenza H1N1 pandemic, dengue in Florida, vaccinia virus infection in Brazilian monkeys, and viruses in the faecal microbiota. Download TWiV #95 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: WHO declares end of influenza H1N1 pandemic CDC’s FluView WHO global monitoring of influenza Locally acquired dengue in Key West, Florida (MMWR) CDC page on dengue Vaccinia virus infection in monkeys of the Brazilian Amazon Dam site where animals were collected for... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3868624 Sun, 15 Aug 2010 23:40:44 +0100 3868624 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3858382&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F80EA963DpmU%2F Now that the World Health Organization has officially declared that the swine flu pandemic is over (see this), the agency has finally released the names of the scientific advisors who helped with pandemic decisions and their declared conflicts of interest, such as paid work for drugmakers. The move comes four months after the WHO denied the pharmaceutical industry had undue influence over its decisions about the extent of the pandemic and two months after the Council of Europe issued a report harshly criticizing the agency’s lack of transparency around the handling of the swine flu pandemic (back story here and here). For its part, the WHO called the accusations “conspiracy theories,” but refused to release the conflict of interest forms filed by the 16 members of its eme... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3858382 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:45:32 +0100 3858382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3724382&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV089.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Alan Dove On episode #89 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and Alan review recent findings on the association of the retrovirus XMRV with ME/CFS, reassortment of 2009 pandemic H1N1 influenza virus in swine, and where influenza viruses travel in the off-season. Download TWiV #89 (56 MB .mp3, 78 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Conflicting XMRV papers on hold Leak of PNAS paper CDC study on XMRV in CFS patients (Retrovirology) and Science update Where influenza viruses travel in the off season (EurekaAlert! and PLoS Pathogens) NPR article on Ebola siRNA treatment (thanks, Andreas!) Priming mechanism for re... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3724382 Sun, 04 Jul 2010 17:03:57 +0100 3724382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3706993&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FNJj_HyWGF4o%2F In what may be a new get-tough program at the FDA, the agency issued a so-called untitled letter to CSL, a big maker of flu vaccines based in Australia, for flunking an April inspection that found several manufacturing deficiencies. And in addition to demanding a summary of corrective actions that must be taken, FDA officials want to meet with CSL senior execs to review their plan. The move comes less than a month after CSL recalled its seasonal shot for children in Australia after investigations failed to explain a nine-fold increase in fever and convulsions. However, the FDA also issued a Q&A in which the agency says the manufacting issues are unrelated to the problems that spurred the recall (background here and here). The FDA cited CSL for “a number of significant objectio... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3706993 Mon, 28 Jun 2010 20:42:34 +0100 3706993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3665732&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F8RUa0r5vUC8%2F The influenza virus neuraminidase (NA) protein is required for virus release from the cell, a property exploited by the antiviral drugs oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamavir (Relenza). During clinical testing of oseltamivir in 2001, some individuals shed drug-resistant viruses with an amino acid change from histidine to tyrosine (H274Y) in NA. Such viruses are not inhibited by oseltamivir because the amino acid change leads to  decreased binding of the drug. But these viruses replicated less well in cell culture, and had reduced infectivity in ferrets. It was concluded that oseltamivir resistant influenza virus mutants would not spread in the population. Why was this conclusion wrong? During the 2008-09 flu season oseltamivir resistant influenza H1N1 viruses with the H274Y change began to s... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3665732 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 20:06:03 +0100 3665732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3644719&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F08%2Fthe-influenza-immunisation-programme-201011%2F Title: The Influenza Immunisation Programme 2010/11 Skinny: Dear Colleague Letter containing information for all commissioners and providers of social care services about the annual seasonal flu immunisation programme 2010/11 Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 3p. Published: 02/06/10 Filed under: Grey Literature, Immunisation, Influenza, NHS, Primary Care Tagged: Commissioning, Dear Colleague Letters, Grey Literature, Immunisation, Influenza, NHS, Social Services, Staff (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3644719 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:01:41 +0100 3644719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3640950&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F08%2Fplcmo201001-plcno201001-plcpho201001-the-influenza-immunisation-programme-201011%2F Title: PL/CMO/2010/01, PL/CNO/2010/01, PL/CPHO/2010/01: The influenza immunisation programme 2010/11 Skinny: Contains information about the annual seasonal influenza immunisation programme for winter 2010/11, including influenza immunisation for frontline health and social care staff, and the poultry worker immunisation programme. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 4p. Published: 26/05/10 Filed under: AHPs, Dental Health, Grey Literature, Health Visiting, Immunisation, Influenza, Medical Staff, NHS, Nursing, Social Services Tagged: Grey Literature, Immunisation, Influenza, NHS, Professional Letters, Social Services, Staff (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3640950 Tue, 08 Jun 2010 13:50:00 +0100 3640950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3629866&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FaPuErsvrxto%2F The World Health Organization denied that the pharmaceutical industry influenced its planning for a flu pandemic, but new documents suggest that several key scientists who advised the agency had done paid work for the drugmakers - Roche and GlaxoSmithKline - that stood to profit from their guidance, BMJ reports. And while the WHO’s decisions led numerous governments to stockpile billions of dollars of antivirals, the agency failed to provide any details about conflict of interests involving the experts who were consulted and if any action was taken “despite repeated requests.” 
 The disclosure come just as a report was released today by the Council of Europe, which harshly criticized the lack of transparency around the handling of the swine flu pandemic. The WHO’s act... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3629866 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 15:49:47 +0100 3629866 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3607233&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2Fl-d4XP8wBrM%2F A serious shortcoming of current influenza virus vaccines is the need to reformulate them every year or two as the virus undergoes antigenic drift. Many virologists have been captivated by the idea of a more universal vaccine that would endure longer, perhaps a decade or more. The identification of a conserved domain in the stalk region of the viral HA protein that gives rise to antibodies that block infection by 10 HA subtypes was a step in this direction. The next phase in the development of a new vaccine, the production of an antigen that confers broader protection, has been achieved using an HA molecule lacking the globular head. The vast majority of antibodies that block influenza virus infection are directed against the globular head of the HA, the protein essential for attachment t... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3607233 Thu, 27 May 2010 20:12:25 +0100 3607233 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3585554&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F20%2Fpandemic-h1n1-stand-down-of-the-antiviral-distribution-arrangements%2F Title: Pandemic H1N1: stand down of the antiviral distribution arrangements Skinny: Letter providing an update on the stand down of the arrangements for the distribution of antiviral medicines as part of the response to the swine flu pandemic. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 2p. Published: 25/03/2010 Filed under: Grey Literature, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Antvirals, Dear Colleague Letters, Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3585554 Thu, 20 May 2010 18:43:42 +0100 3585554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3581562&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F19%2Fpandemic-h1n1-2009-swine-flu-vaccines-for-travel-use%2F Title: Pandemic H1N1 (2009) swine flu vaccines for travel use Skinny: Dear Colleague Letter informing of provision of the H1N1 (2009) swine flu vaccine for protection of travellers to Southern Hemisphere countries. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 4p. Published: 22/03/2010 Filed under: Grey Literature, Immunisation, Influenza, NHS, Travel Health Tagged: Dear Collegue Letters, Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Travel Health (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3581562 Wed, 19 May 2010 19:00:00 +0100 3581562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577330&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F19%2Fpandemic-h1n1-vaccine-uptake-figures-for-england-by-sha-and-pct%2F Title: Pandemic H1N1 Vaccine Uptake Figures for England by SHA and PCT – patient data uptake only Pandemic H1N1 (2009/10) Influenza Vaccination Programme Vaccine Uptake in England by SHA for Front Line Healthcare Workers Skinny: Data on vaccinations given up to 28 February 2010 at the SHA and PCT/Trust levels as follows: For each SHA and PCT, the % uptake of one dose of the swine flu vaccine, Pandemrix by people in clinical risk groups (including pregnant women) and children aged six months to under five years (Tables 1 & 2).  % uptake is the (number vaccinated / number eligible to receive vaccine and registered) x 100% For each SHA and Trust (Tables 3 and 4): the number of HCWs the number of HCWs that have received one dose of the swine flu vaccine, Pandemrix the % uptake... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577330 Wed, 19 May 2010 13:36:48 +0100 3577330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577106&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FNFRSkuXeW-w%2F Google Flu Trends uses analysis of large numbers of search queries to track influenza-like illness in a population. The idea is that the frequency of certain queries correlates with the percentage of physician visits in which a patient presents with influenza-like symptoms. Google claims that it can accurately estimate the level of weekly influenza activity in each region of the United States. But a recent study shows that Google Flu Trends is not as accurate at estimating rates of laboratory-confirmed influenza as surveillance carried out by the CDC. Google Flu Trends and CDC surveillance results were compared for the period of  2003 – 2008. As reported at the 2010 American Thoracic Society Conference, the greatest deviation of Google Flu Trends from CDC surveillance occurred durin... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577106 Tue, 18 May 2010 17:28:44 +0100 3577106 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3563646&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2F023_W3310_10.mp4 Download: .wmv (346 MB) | .mp4 (91 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3563646 Fri, 14 May 2010 13:00:51 +0100 3563646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3563963&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fnanopatches-the-future-of-vaccine-delivery%2F2010.05.13 Professor Mark Kendall of the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology and his team have been investigating a novel way to deliver vaccines. Their method makes use of nanopatches, which are fingernail-sized dermal patches with microscopic projections on their surface that hand vaccine off directly to the antigen-presenting cells just below the surface of the skin. The scientists’ recent work in mice has shown that an immune response equivalent to that achievable by needle and syringe can be reached using 100 times less vaccine. Not only does the nanopatch appear to be a more effective delivery method, it’s also cheaper to produce and doesn’t require refrigeration, adjuvants or multiple doses. (more…) *This blog post was originally published... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3563963 Thu, 13 May 2010 18:00:01 +0100 3563963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546799&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV081.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Rich Condit On episode #81 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent and Rich answer listener questions on viruses and gluten allergy, RNA silencing, influenza virus, herpes simplex virus, HIV/AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, manicure salons, and the koala tea of Marseilles. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code TWIVPOD to receive $75-$500 off a Drobo. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #81 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email, or listen on your mobile device with Stitcher Radio. Links for this episode: Virus infections and gluten intolerance on TWiS (thanks Jesper!) Viral small RNAs in PLoS Pathogens (thanks Jason!) Canadian S... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546799 Sun, 09 May 2010 14:01:03 +0100 3546799 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3545416&cid=t_106584_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D8541 ILI (Influenza-like-illness) clusters continue to be reported Nine reports of influenza-like-illness (ILI) cluster cases were received by the Health Ministry from 8am Friday till 8am Saturday. The cases were reported to have occurred in Johor, Perak, Kelantan, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, Malacca and Penang. In Perak, one case was reported in Kampung Teluk Kepayang, while in Kelantan, two cases were reported at the Pasir Mas National Service Training Camp and SMK Gual Periok, Pasir Mas. Two cases were reported in Taman Skudai Baru, Johor Baru and the Tun Hussein Onn Teacher Training Institute in Batu Pahat. One case was reported each at SMK Kuala Repas Bentong, Pahang; SM Rendah Agama Repah, Negri Sembilan; Felda Kemendor Jasin, Malacca; and SJK Chin Shih Chung in Sungai Nibong, Penang. Health ... Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3545416 Fri, 07 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3545416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3542264&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2F021_W3310_10.wmv Download: .wmv (349 MB) | .mp4 (90 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3542264 Fri, 07 May 2010 14:37:27 +0100 3542264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529454&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2F020_W3310_10.wmv Get the Flash Player to see this player. var s1 = new SWFObject("https://media.dreamhost.com/mp5/player.swf","ply","512","384","9","#FFFFFF"); s1.addParam("allowfullscreen","true"); s1.addParam("allowscriptaccess","always"); s1.addParam("flashvars","file=http://www.virology.ws/020_W3310_10.flv"); s1.write("mvcontainer"); Download: .wmv (314 MB) | .mp4 (82 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529454 Tue, 04 May 2010 00:42:55 +0100 3529454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3486625&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FeYY8hlOy30U%2F Download: .wmv (322 MB) | .mp4 (91 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3486625 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:20:43 +0100 3486625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3482689&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV078.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, Dickson Despommier, and Rich Condit Vincent, Alan, Dickson, and Rich talk about treating arthritis with a tanapox virus protein, Darwinian evolution of prions in cell culture, and the connection between cold weather fronts and outbreaks of avian H5N1 influenza in Europe. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code TWIVPOD to receive $75-$500 off a Drobo. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #78 (53 MB .mp3, 73 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Treating arthritis with a tanapox virus protein that antagonizes TNF (press release and research article) Darwinian evolution of prions in cell culture (abstract) Simple diagram ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3482689 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 16:56:38 +0100 3482689 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3457791&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV077.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit Vincent, Alan, and Rich revisit circovirus contamination of Rotarix, then discuss poxvirus-like replication of mimivirus in the cell cytoplasm, and whether seasonal influenza immunization increases the risk of infection with the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code TWIVPOD to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #77 (60 MB .mp3, 83 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Contamination of Rotarix vaccine with porcine circovirus 1 DNA Do you want to know what is in your vaccines? Take the poll Mimivirus replicates in the cell cytopl... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3457791 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:36:56 +0100 3457791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412411&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV075.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Matthew Frieman Vincent, Alan, and Matt review contamination of Rotarix with circovirus DNA, antigenic similarity between 1918 and 2009 H1N1 influenza, a collection of rabies reports, and chicken pox mistaken for smallpox in Uganda. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #75 (57 MB .mp3, 79 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Contamination of Rotarix vaccine with porcine circovirus 1 DNA Beak and feather disease circovirus (BFDV) threatens parrots Antigenic similarity between 1918 and 2009 H1N1 influenza Presumptive ab... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412411 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 13:19:43 +0100 3412411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420600&cid=t_106584_117_f&fid=39098&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fhealthmedwatch%2FprWt%2F%7E3%2FsPGg9leLB8w%2F Interesting take on the flu crisis that didn’t happen. (Source: HealthMedWatch) HealthMedWatch blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420600 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 20:45:16 +0100 3420600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3389160&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV074.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Adolfo Garcia-Sastre Vincent speaks with Adolfo Garcia-Sastre talk about the origin, pathogenesis, and prevention of the 2009 pandemic influenza H1N1 virus. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #74 (34 MB .mp3, 47 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Influenza virus receptor specificity and disease PB1-F2 expression by 2009 H1N1 strain does not increase virulence Protection against 2009 H1N1 infection by immunization with older strains Passage in eggs changes influenza receptor specificity Association between D222G mutation and v... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3389160 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 01:14:21 +0100 3389160 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3382426&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FVZEtRry8oHQ%2F Last year a mutation in the HA gene of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus was identified in isolates from patients with severe disease. At the time I concluded that the emergence of this change was not a concern. Recently the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reported that the mutation, which causes a change from the amino acid aspartic acid to glycine at position 225 of the viral HA protein (D225G), has been identified in 11 of 61 cases (18%) of severe or fatal influenza, but not in any of 205 mild cases. Have these observations changed my view of the importance of this mutation? The cell receptor for influenza A virus strains is sialic acid. Human influenza A strains bind preferentially to sialic acids linked to galactose by an alpha(2,6) bond, while avian and equine strains prefer alpha... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3382426 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 03:14:01 +0100 3382426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359244&cid=t_106584_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F03%2F12%2Fvitamin-d-supplementation-found-to-help-prevent-flu-in-children%2F Back in February I wrote a post that was largely focused on my experience of supplementing with vitamin D, and specifically the fact that I had not had a single infection (e.g. cold or flu) since starting supplementation. I still, by the way, have not had an infection. Not even a hint of one. This [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359244 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:54:33 +0100 3359244 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3358616&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2Fd2XR0dpw4qY%2F The second RNA segment of some influenza virus strains encodes a protein called PB1-F2 that might contribute to virulence. Speaking about the 2009 pandemic H1N1 strain, Peter Palese noted that “If this virulence marker is necessary for an influenza virus to become highly pathogenic in humans or in chickens, then the current swine virus doesn’t have what it takes to become a major killer.” If the pandemic virus mutated so that the PB1-F2 protein is produced, would it become a killer? The PB1-F2 protein is not produced in cells infected with the 2009 H1N1 strain because there are three translation stop codons at nucleotide positions 12, 58, and 88.  To determine if this protein plays a role in virulence, the second RNA segment of the A/California/04/2009 H1N1 strain was genetically al... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3358616 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:32:15 +0100 3358616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3358617&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2F012_W3310_10.wmv Download: .wmv (369 MB) | .mp4 (77 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3358617 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 02:09:47 +0100 3358617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354022&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FpMBTGgqc1RQ%2F The World Health Organization and the US Food & Drug Administration have decided on the composition of the influenza virus vaccine that will be used during the 2010-2011 season in the northern hemisphere. The trivalent preparation will contain the following influenza virus strains: A/California/7/2009 (H1N1); A/Perth/16/2009 (H3N2); and B/Brisbane/60/2008. The same trivalent vaccine is also being used to prepare for the upcoming winter in the southern hemisphere. The A/California/7/2009 (H1N1) virus is the pandemic strain that was used in the 2009 H1N1 monovalent vaccine. That virus has not yet undergone sufficient antigenic drift to warrant selection of a new strain for the vaccine. Note that a seasonal H1N1 strain from previous years will not be included in the vaccine. This chang... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354022 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:10:31 +0100 3354022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318122&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV071.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit Vincent, Dickson, Alan, and Rich answer listener questions about maternal infection and fetal injury, viral gene therapy, eyeglasses and influenza, filtering prions from blood, eradication of rinderpest, Tamiflu resistance of H1N1 influenza, bacteriophages and the human microbiome, H1N1 vaccine recalls, human tumor viruses, RNA interference, and junk DNA. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #71 (63 MB .mp3, 88 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Maternal infection and fetal neurologic... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318122 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 01:00:22 +0100 3318122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3301989&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV070.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, and Alan Dove On episode #70 of the podcast ‘This Week in Virology’, Vincent, Dickson, and Alan consider a broad spectrum antiviral against enveloped viruses, how a plant virus induces chemical signals in the host to maximize its spread, a new way to preserve viral vaccines at tropical temperatures, and the continuing story of XMRV and chronic fatigue syndrome. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #70 (56 MB .mp3, 77 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Broad spectrum antiviral against enveloped virus... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3301989 Sun, 21 Feb 2010 23:50:04 +0100 3301989 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3287419&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FKsK0AgKil_M%2F Broad spectrum antibiotics are available that act against a wide range of bacteria, including both gram-positive and gram-negative species. In contrast, our antiviral arsenal is exceedingly specific. Nearly all the known antivirals block infection with one or two different viruses. The discovery of a compound that blocks infection with many different enveloped viruses may change the landscape of antiviral therapy. A small molecule has been discovered that inhibits infection by a wide range of viruses with membranes, the so-called enveloped viruses. The compound, called LJ001, is a derivative of aryl methylene rhodanine. It was discovered in a search for compounds that block the entry of Nipah virus into cells. LJ001 was then found to block infection of cells by a wide variety of enveloped ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3287419 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 22:59:23 +0100 3287419 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3280215&cid=t_106584_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2F17%2Fno-good-evidence-flu-vaccination-helps-the-elderly%2F Here in the UK it’s cold, and the cold weather tends to bring with it an upsurge in the rates of viral infections such as the common cold and flu. It has been suggested that one reason such infections surge in the winter is because we’re more likely to be cooped up with other people, [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3280215 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:32:55 +0100 3280215 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269742&cid=t_106584_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2Fir7ymCdys2Y%2F The H1N1 virus, the so-called swine flu, hit 57 million Americans and was the cause of 257,000 hospitalizations and 11,690 deaths in the United States. Fifty seven million: that’s more than the population of Spain (46 million) and Canada (34 million). The number of people hospitalized because of the H1N1 influenza is just slightly more than the entire population of Barbados, or equal to half the state of Wyoming. That’s a lot of people. The flu is still around and vaccines are still being given. The US winter Olympic athletes were vaccinated last month if they’d not already been, giving the vaccine enough time to be effective when the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics begin tonight. What was it about the H1N1 flu that got the world so concerned and should it have been? It&#8... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269742 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:36:00 +0100 3269742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3266701&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FNzr5kGw2Wnw%2F Influenza A viruses typically cause severe respiratory disease mainly in the very young or the elderly. The 2009 swine-origin H1N1 virus is unusual because it preferentially infects individuals under 35 years of age. We’ve previously noted that being older is a good defense against 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, in part because older people have antibodies that block infection. Experiments done in mice show that immunization with 1918-like or classical H1N1 swine influenza viruses protects against infection with 2009 H1N1 virus. When mice are inoculated intranasally with a high dose of the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus, the virus replicates in the lungs and leads to significant weight loss and lethality. After a sublethal virus dose the mice develop protective antibodies that protect agains... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3266701 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 20:17:26 +0100 3266701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254136&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2F006_W3310_10.wmv Download: .wmv (324 MB) | .mp4 (76 MB) Visit the virology W3310 home page for a complete list of course resources. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254136 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:19:46 +0100 3254136 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3250975&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV069.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit Vincent, Alan, and Rich review recent outbreaks of mumps in the UK, US, and Israel, protection of mice against 2009 H1N1 influenza A virus by 1918-like and classical swine H1N1 vaccines, and a virus-like particle vaccine for chikungunya virus. This episode is sponsored by Data Robotics Inc. Use the promotion code VINCENT to receive $50 off a Drobo or $100 off a Drobo S. Win a free Drobo S! Contest rules here. Download TWiV #69 (59 MB .mp3, 82 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: Mumps outbreak in Israel (ProMedMail and Eurosurveillance; thanks Lenn!) and Iowa Retraction of Wakefield vaccines- autism study Immunization with 1918-like and classical sw... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3250975 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 03:22:28 +0100 3250975 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3244078&cid=t_106584_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2F05%2Fcan-vitamin-d-keep-you-infection-free%2F On Wednesday morning I had a nice chat over coffee with Oliver Gillie, a writer and researcher with a particular interest in vitamin D. We spent much of our time talking about the role vitamin D may have in a wide range of conditions including role in a range of conditions including cancer, diabetes, [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3244078 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:10:31 +0100 3244078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3212274&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F27%2Fpandemic-flu-training-module-for-mental-health-trusts-tertiary-and-associated-specialist-trusts%2F Title: Pandemic Flu Training Module for Mental Health Trusts, Tertiary and Associated Specialist Trusts Skinny: Updated guidance for Mental Health Trusts, Tertiary and Associated Specialist Trusts on handling flu pandemic. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 34p. Published: 22/01/2010 Posted in Grey Literature, Hospitals, Influenza, Mental Health, NHS, Pandemic, Training Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Mental Health, Pandemic, Training (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3212274 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:32:39 +0100 3212274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3193664&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F21%2F8597%2F Title: Swine flu and employment Skinny: Discusses the impact of swine flu (H1N1) on employment. The pandemic has raised some challenging issues in the workplace and the article addresses some of these issues. Most practices will have issues maintaining a service, and article encourages practice managers to carry out a staff audit to minimise the chances of being caught out by staff absences. Includes a background history to the outbreak of swine flu. Posted in Emergency Planning, General Practice, Influenza, Journals, Management Tagged: Audit, H1N1, Influenza, Practice Management, Swine Flu, Workforce Planning (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3193664 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:11:46 +0100 3193664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3180284&cid=t_106584_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F_1vREUgzj7k%2F Although the H1N1 virus has faded quite a bit in the news, it is still active throughout the world, including the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that as of January 10, 2010, “more than 208 countries and overseas territories or communities have reported laboratory confirmed cases of pandemic influenza H1N1 2009, including at least 13,554 deaths.” The most active regions right now remain parts of North Africa, South Asia and the eastern and southeastern areas of Europe. North Africa The virus is still spreading in countries such as Morocco, Algeria and Egypt. South Asia Countries in South Asia that are reporting active infection spread of H1N1 include Nepal, India (more in the west, less so in the north), and Sri Lanka – although the virus may be... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3180284 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 15:44:26 +0100 3180284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3175595&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.radiosandysprings.com%2Fpodcasts%2FInfectiousDiseaseJan04.2010.mp3 I was recently interviewed on Radio Sandy Springs by Sharon Sanders of FluTrackers. We talked about pandemic influenza H1N1 virus. Listen to the show below. Download Infectious Disease Hour January 4 2010 (20 MB .mp3, 57 minutes) Radio Sandy Springs 1620 AM is a low-powered Atlanta-based talk radio station that simulcasts on the Internet.  They broadcast a weekly ‘Infectious Disease Update’ with interviews with clinicians, scientists, researchers, and even historians. You can find an archive of recent Infectious Disease Hour shows here. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3175595 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 22:00:33 +0100 3175595 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3167060&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F13%2Fpandemic-h1n1-influenza-a-summary-of-guidance-for-infection-control-in-healthcare-settings%2F Title: Summary infection control guidance for ambulance services during an influenza pandemic Skinny: Updated version of Pandemic flu: A summary of guidance for infection control in health care settings issued in September 2007. It is specific to the current pandemic influenza virus, pandemic (H1N1), and thus represents current guidance.  Particularly it updates details on: transmission characteristics of pandemic (H1N1) influenza aerosol-generating procedures occupational health: deployment of staff at high risk of complications from influenza setting-specific guidance for mortuaries and dental surgeries. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 32p. Published: 08/01/2010 Posted in Grey Literature, Infection Control, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Infection Control, ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3167060 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:49:14 +0100 3167060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3167061&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F13%2Fpandemic-influenza-summary-infection-control-guidance-for-ambulance-services-during-an-influenza-pandemic%2F Title: Summary infection control guidance for ambulance services during an influenza pandemic Skinny: Concise summary guidance for infection control for the ambulance services and it is intended for use during the pandemic. The guidance in this document is equally applicable to lay responders, who should adopt the same infection control and hygiene measures.  This guidance document includes sections on patient management, infection control precautions, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and environmental infection control, as well as occupational health. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 25p. Published: 08/01/2010 Posted in Ambulance Services, Grey Literature, Infection Control, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Ambulance Services, Grey, H1N1, Infection Control, Influenza, Pandemic (So... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3167061 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:44:21 +0100 3167061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3163728&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F11%2Farchives-of-pediatrics-and-adolescent-medicine-2009-vol-164-no-1%2F content page Fade Fave: Health Care Worker Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs Regarding Mandatory Influenza Vaccination Fade Skinny: Influenza is responsible for an estimated 36 000 deaths and 226 000 hospitalizations every year in the United States. Children and the elderly are at particularly high risk of influenza infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all health care workers (HCWs) receive an annual influenza immunization to protect themselves and their patients. Nevertheless, only 40% of HCWs in the United States get immunized every year. While immunization rates at hospitals caring for children have generally exceeded the national rate, a 2004 study of 19 children’s hospitals revealed very low rates of immunization in some hospitals and among... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3163728 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:58:18 +0100 3163728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159665&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F11%2Farchives-of-pediatrics-and-adolescent-medicine-2009-vol-164-no-1%2F content page Fade Fave: Health Care Worker Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs Regarding Mandatory Influenza Vaccination Fade Skinny: Influenza is responsible for an estimated 36 000 deaths and 226 000 hospitalizations every year in the United States. Children and the elderly are at particularly high risk of influenza infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all health care workers (HCWs) receive an annual influenza immunization to protect themselves and their patients. Nevertheless, only 40% of HCWs in the United States get immunized every year. While immunization rates at hospitals caring for children have generally exceeded the national rate, a 2004 study of 19 children’s hospitals revealed very low rates of immunization in some hospitals and among... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159665 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:58:18 +0100 3159665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153329&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F08%2Fswine-flu-information-sheet-for-asylum-seekers-refugees-and-other-foreign-nationals-in-the-uk%2F Title: Swine flu information sheet for asylum seekers, refugees and other foreign nationals in the UK A summary of current information on swine flu in a variety of languages that can now be accessed for or by people who cannot speak or read English and who may not have access to a regular flow of news, i.e., an asylum seeker or refugee, a temporary worker in the UK or even a member of an established migrant group. Information sheet in Arabic Information sheet in French information sheet in Chinese (Simplified) information sheet in Chinese (Traditional) information sheet in Gujarati information sheet in Hindi information sheet in Krio information sheet in Kurdish Kurmanji information sheet in Kurdish Sorani information sheet in Latvian information sheet in Lingala information sh... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153329 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 04:24:12 +0100 3153329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3138856&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV064.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, and Rich Condit Vincent, Alan, and Rich discuss ten compelling virology stories of 2009. Download TWiV #64 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Ten virology stories of 2009: Pandemic influenza: Swine-origin H1N1 virus (TWiV 36) XMRV, prostate cancer, and chronic fatigue syndrome (TWiV 50, 55) AIDS vaccine ’success’ (TWiV 51) Colony collapse disorder (TWiV 46, 49) AIDS-like disease in wild chimps (TWiV 45) Diverse viral community in Antarctic lake (TWiV 58) Polyomavirus seroepidemiology in humans (TWiV 26) Poxvirus threatens UK red squirrels (TWiV 63) Polio spreads from Nigeria (TWiV 29) How mosquitoes survive Dengue virus infection (TWiV 21) Picture book on ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3138856 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 17:03:44 +0100 3138856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3126477&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F9F6kjjjpdzY%2F In healthy individuals, the first encounter with a virus leads to a primary antibody response. When an infection occurs with the same or a similar virus, a rapid antibody response occurs that is called the secondary antibody response. Antibodies are critical for preventing many viral infections, including influenza. But reinfection may occur if we encounter the same virus before the primary response is complete. Recently three cases of confirmed infection with 2009 influenza H1N1 were reported in Chile. The first patient had laboratory confirmed infection; treatment with oseltamivir resolved symptoms after 48 hours. Twenty days later the patient developed a second bout of laboratory confirmed influenza which was treated with amantadine. The second patient acquired laboratory confirmed i... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3126477 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:09:44 +0100 3126477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3118627&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F-I4k-Kd0LyQ%2F In the wake of a British Medical Journal article which concludes that Tamiflu has at best a modest effect, many readers have asked if influenza neuraminidase inhibitors function at all. If you’d like a good critique of this study, I suggest reading Paul Revere’s analysis of the at Effect Measure. For our part, we’ll examine some of the virological evidence for the effectiveness of Tamiflu. One of the first human studies on the effectiveness of Tamiflu was published about ten years ago. The human subjects (117 healthy adult volunteers, 18-40 years of age, with hemagglutination-inhibition antibody titers 1:8 or lower) were infected intranasally with a seasonal H1N1 strain of influenza virus. Some subjects were given Tamiflu or placebo 26 hours before infection, while others... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3118627 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:40:12 +0100 3118627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3114804&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FfFPkqHAb65Q%2F Millions of New Yorkers were immunized against smallpox within a few weeks in April 1947. The stimulus for this mass immunization was the importation of smallpox by a businessman who had acquired the disease during his travels. While we are in the middle of a massive influenza immunization campaign, it is useful to review the 1947 accomplishment as a model for public health planning and mobilization. Early in March 1947, an American arrived in New York City by bus from Mexico City. He was ill upon arrival, and died in hospital within a few days. The cause of death was listed as bronchitis. Eleven days later a 22 month old baby and a 25 year old man were admitted to the same hospital with symptoms of smallpox. Laboratory tests revealed that these two individuals, as well as the businessman ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3114804 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:34:47 +0100 3114804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108315&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F21%2Fah1n1-swine-influenza-soccon-end-to-national-collection%2F Title: A(H1N1) Swine Influenza: SocCon – end to national collection Skinny: Letter from Roy Taylor ending the national collection of SocCon data as a result of the slow down in infection rates with swine flu. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 2p. Published: 18/12/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, Local Authorities, Pandemic, Social Services, Statistical Data Tagged: Epidemiology, Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Social Services, Statistical Data (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108315 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:32:50 +0100 3108315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3104978&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F18%2Foverproduction-of-th1-and-th17-cytokines-may-be-the-clue-to-why-some-h1n1-patients-get-very-ill%2F The present H1N1 influenza virus (nvH1N1, nv=new variant) behaves very differently from other influenza strains. The majority of nvH1N1 infections are mild and self-limiting in nature, but a small percentage of the patients require hospitalization and sometimes emergency care. Unlike the seasonal flu virus, the people who seem to suffer serious complications from this [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3104978 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:15:30 +0100 3104978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101065&cid=t_106584_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FESz8h25b33Q%2F And so another week is about to draw to a close. And not a moment too soon, yes? What will you do this weekend? Take a brisk walk? Catch up on sleep? Stimulate the economy by doing a little shopping? We will be shuttling assorted short people to and from all sorts of things, as always. But there is hope we can catch up on some paperwork and reading. While you ponder your own possibilities, here are a few items to help you start the day. Have a great weekend, everyone… Low Demand For Flu Vaccine Hurts Suppliers (The Financial Times) USPTO Upholds Merck’s Singulair Patent (Reuters) Eisai Buys AkaRx For $255 Million (Reuters) Photo courtesy of Flickr tipiro (Source: Pharmalot) Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101065 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:38:56 +0100 3101065 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3096797&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F17%2Fthe-operating-framework-for-201011-for-the-nhs-in-england%2F Title: The operating framework for 2010/11 for the NHS in England Skinny: Letter introducing the NHS operating framework 2010/11 to Chief Executives in the NHS. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 3p. Published: 16/12/2009 Posted in Acute Services, Decision Making, Financial Management, Governance, Grey Literature, Management, NHS, Primary Care, Quality Tagged: Access, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, H1N1, Hospitals, Inequalities, Infection Control, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic, Patient Experience, Poverty, Primary Care, Priorities, Quality, Staff Satisfaction, Stakeholder Engagement, Waiting Times (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3096797 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:00:21 +0100 3096797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3096798&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F17%2Fh1n1-virus-swine-flu-advice-for-pcts-and-primary-ophthalmic-services-contractors%2F Title: H1N1 Virus (Swine Flu) Advice for PCTs and Primary Ophthalmic Services contractors Skinny: Guidance providing advice on the implications of swine flu for primary ophthalmic services. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 4p. Published: 16/12/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, Ophthalmology, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Ophthalmology, Pandemic, Primary Care (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3096798 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 07:31:40 +0100 3096798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092646&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F16%2Fa-h1n1-swine-flu-influenza-phase-two-of-the-vaccination-programme-children-over-6-months-and-under-5-years-dosage-schedule-update%2F Title: A (H1N1) swine flu influenza: phase two of the vaccination programme; children over 6 months and under 5 years: dosage schedule update Skinny: Dear Colleague letter detailing amendment to the licence for swine flu vaccination  to allow a one dose schedule in children between 6 months and under 5 years of age.  Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 2p. Published: 16/12/2009 Posted in Children, Grey Literature, Immunisation, Infants, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Children, Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092646 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:41:34 +0100 3092646 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092651&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=38272&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaikaspoetnik.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F16%2Fnot-one-rct-on-swine-flu-or-h1n1-outrageous%2F Last week doctorblogs (Annabel Bentley) tweeted: “Outrageous- there isn’t ONE randomised trial on swine flu or #H1N1“ Annabel referred to an article at Trust the Evidence, the excellent blog of the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (CEBM) in Oxford, UK. In the article “Is swine flu the most over-published and over-hyped disease ever?” Carl Heneghan first showed [...] (Source: Laika's MedLibLog) Laika's MedLibLog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092651 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:46:49 +0100 3092651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089207&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Finformation-for-parents-of-children-over-six-months-and-under-five-years-old%2F Title: Information for parents of children over six months and under five years old Skinny: Leaflet developed to provide parents and carers with information about swine flu vaccination for children over six months and under five years of age. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 27p. Published: 14/12/2009 Posted in Children, Grey Literature, Health Promotion, Immunisation, Infants, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Children, Grey Literature, H1N1, Health Education, Immunisation, Infants, Influenza, Pandemic, Parenting (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089207 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:00:45 +0100 3089207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089209&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Fpandemic-h1n1-2009-influenza-clinical-management-guidelines-for-pregnancy%2F Title: Pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza: clinical management guidelines for pregnancy Skinny: Updates  provisional guidance for the clinical management of pregnant women with symptoms of influenza–like illness, severe influenza and complications, provided in 2007 by the British Infection Society, British Thoracic Society and Health Protection Agency in collaboration with the Department of Health. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 27p. Published: 14/12/2009 Posted in Clinical Governance, Clinical Guidelines, Grey Literature, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Clinical Guidelines, Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089209 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:00:52 +0100 3089209 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089210&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Fpandemic-h1n1-2009-influenza-clinical-management-guidelines-for-adults-and-children-2%2F Title: Pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza: Clinical management guidelines for adults and children Skinny: Updates provisional guidance for the clinical management of adults and children with symptoms of influenza–like illness, severe influenza and complications, provided in 2007 by the British Infection Society, British Thoracic Society and Health Protection Agency in collaboration with the Department of Health. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 25p. Published: 14/12/2009 Posted in Clinical Governance, Clinical Guidelines, Grey Literature, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Clinical Guidelines, Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089210 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:30:59 +0100 3089210 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084717&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fdosage-of-oseltamivir-in-children-under-6-months-of-age-in-the-swine-flu-pandemic%2F Title: Dosage of oseltamivir in children under 6 months of age in the swine flu pandemic Skinny: Provides information about changes to the dose of oseltamivir in children under 6 months of age during an influenza pandemic outbreak and the steps that need to be taken to ensure a safe transition to the new dosage. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 5p. Published: 19/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Infants, Influenza, Pandemic, Prescribing Tagged: Drug Therapy, Grey Literature, H1N1, Infants, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084717 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:30:04 +0100 3084717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084718&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fextending-the-h1n1-swine-flu-vaccination-programme-20092010%2F Title: Extending the H1N1 swine flu vaccination programme 2009/2010 Skinny: Provides information on the extension of the H1N1 swine flu vaccination programme, which will be extended to offer the vaccine to all children over six months of age and under 5 years old. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:2p. Published: 19/11/2009 Posted in Children, Grey Literature, Immunisation, Infants, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic Tagged: Children, Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084718 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:00:15 +0100 3084718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084719&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fupdate-of-guidance-on-preparing-maternity-services-toolkit%2F Title: Update of guidance on preparing maternity services toolkit Skinny: Information and links to other guidance and advice relevant for all services to pregnant women and care for new mothers to enable the continuity of services during this H1N1 pandemic. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:12p. Published: 20/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, NHS, Obstetrics, Pandemic, Toolkits Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Maternal Care, Obstetrics, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084719 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:00:02 +0100 3084719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084720&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fauthorisation-of-antiviral-medicines-guidance-on-the-use-of-fp10ss-forms-and-antiviral-authorisation-vouchers-during-the-h1n1-swine-flu-pandemic-in-england-2%2F Title: Authorisation of antiviral medicines – Guidance on the use of FP10SS forms and Antiviral Authorisation Vouchers during the H1N1 (swine flu) pandemic in England Skinny: Updated guidance to inform the NHS about the new Antiviral Authorisation Vouchers for children under 1 year of age issued in November 2009. This follows the European Commission decision to accept the advice of the European Medicines Evaluation Agency to change the recommended dose of Tamiflu for children under 6 months of age during an influenza pandemic outbreak. These Antiviral Authorisation Vouchers include the new dosage regimen for oseltamivir  and will ensure that children under one year of age get the recommended dose for their age and weight. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:28p. Published: 20/11/2009 ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084720 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:30:54 +0100 3084720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084723&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fa-h1n1-swine-influenza-phase-two-of-the-vaccination-programme-ian-dalton-letter%2F Title: A (H1N1) swine influenza: Phase Two of the vaccination programme – Ian Dalton Letter Skinny: Letter on extending the swine flu vaccination programme beyond the initial priority groups. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:7p. Published: 19/11/2009 Posted in Immunisation, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084723 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:00:19 +0100 3084723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084724&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fbmj-2009-vol-339-no-77312%2F BMJ 2009 (Vol 339, No 7732) content page Fade Fave: First cases of spread of oseltamivir resistant swine flu between patients are reported in Wales Fade Skinny: The first cases in the world of person to person transmission of a strain of swine flu that is resistant to oseltamivir (Tamiflu) seem to have emerged in a Welsh hospital. (NHS Athens is required to access this article online) Posted in Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Journals Tagged: Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Influenza, Oseltamivir, Swine Flu, Tamiflu (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084724 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:42:56 +0100 3084724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084725&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2F7531%2F Title: Phase Two of the vaccination programme – Roy Taylor letter Skinny: Letter on extending the swine flu vaccination programme beyond the initial priority groups. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:4p. Published: 19/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Influenza, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084725 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:30:27 +0100 3084725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084728&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F14%2Fthe-swine-flu-vaccination-programme-prisoners-in-the-clinical-risk-groups-2009-2010%2F Title: The swine flu vaccination programme: prisoners in the clinical risk groups – 2009-2010 Skinny: Letter providing information for prison health care teams, to assist them in delivering the swine flu (influenza A (H1N1v) 2009) vaccine to those prisoners in the clinical priority groups. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:8p. Published: 20/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Influenza, Pandemic, Prison, Prison Health Services (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084728 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 11:00:59 +0100 3084728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3082990&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV062.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dickson Despommier, and Alan Dove On episode #62 of the podcast This Week in Virology, Vincent, Dickson, and Alan discuss STEP HIV-1 vaccine failure caused by the adenovirus vector, presence of West Nile virus in kidneys for years after initial infection, adaptation of the influenza viral RNA polymerase for replication in human cells, and the significance of the D225G change in the influenza HA protein. Download TWiV #62 (47 MB .mp3, 66 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV (free) in iTunes , at the Zune Marketplace, by the RSS feed, or by email. Links for this episode: HIV vaccine failure probably caused by adenovirus vector used Persistence of West Nile virus in kidneys for years (JID and ProMedMail) (thanks, Lenn!) Adaptive strategies of influenza RNA polymerase for rep... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3082990 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:20:58 +0100 3082990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083019&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F13%2Fthe-contribution-of-medical-students-to-services-in-pandemic-flu%2F Title: The contribution of medical students to services in pandemic flu Skinny: Paper providing national guidance about the contribution of medical students (in this case UK wide) but with scope for local interpretation – ‘consistent flexibility’. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:11p. Published: 11/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, Medical Education, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Medical Education, Medical Undergraduates, Pandemic, Staff Supply (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083019 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 02:00:24 +0100 3083019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083020&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F13%2Fswine-influenza-guidance-on-vaccination-programme-payment-data-collection-and-communications%2F Title: Swine Influenza: Guidance on vaccination programme payment, data collection and communications Skinny: Dear Colleague letter to all directors of adult social services. It contains important information for social care workers on the vaccination programme payment, data collection and a communications toolkit. Publisher: DH Size of Publication:9p. Published: 11/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, Local Authorities, Pandemic, Social Services Tagged: Financial Management, Grey Literature, H1N1, Immunisation, Pandemic, Social Services, Stakeholder Engagement, Statistical Data (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083020 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 01:30:31 +0100 3083020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3078960&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FjEBJUSa75y0%2F Before the development of cell culture, many viruses were propagated in embryonated chicken eggs. Today this method is most commonly used for growth of influenza virus. The excellent yield of virus from chicken eggs has led to their widespread use in research laboratories and for vaccine production. In fact the vast majority of influenza vaccines – both inactivated and infectious – are produced in chicken eggs. How is influenza virus propagated in eggs? The illustration below shows a cutaway view of an embryonated chicken egg. The different routes of inoculation into the egg are shown, as well as the different compartments in which viruses replicate. For propagation of influenza virus, pathogen-free eggs are used 11-12 days after fertilization. The egg is placed in front of a ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3078960 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 20:51:51 +0100 3078960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3066736&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2Fmi1H3VMeQDU%2F If you have been reading this blog you know I believe that those who write about viruses must always make sure that they get the science right. I’m always on the lookout for violations. Are there any problems with the plush toys produced by Giant Microbes? I came across the influenza plush toy in my desk this weekend. The color – green – and the two eyes are gratuitous additions that have nothing to do with reality. Of course, virus particles are too small to have color, but a colorless – or eyeless – toy line would have little appeal to children. What about that elongated shape? Influenza virions are pleomorphic; they are generally spherical, but filamentous particles are often observed in fresh clinical isolates. So the shape is acceptable. But the soft velv... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3066736 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 22:19:43 +0100 3066736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3063327&cid=t_106584_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FOItBagnTUMw%2F Influenza is still in the news, be it H1N1 or the seasonal flu. But even when the flu isn’t newsworthy, we still need to be aware of it, particularly over the winter season. With the holiday season quickly taking hold, I interviewed, Payam Hakimi, D.O., American Board of Family Physicians, Medical Director Body of Harmony Institute of Health & Healing, Teaching Faculty Center for Education & Development of Clinical Homeopathy. Dr. Hakimi suggests that everyone have a flu plan, allowing them to be prepared should they be hit with influenza, whatever type. Dr. Hakimi: The most important thing a person should know is what actions to take in case they have the signs and symptoms of the flu, which are outlined below.  It is important to know that most of these signs and symptoms ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3063327 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 12:03:29 +0100 3063327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3061372&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV061.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier On episode 61 of the podcast “This Week in Virology”, Vincent and Dick muse about the symbiotic bacterium, Wolbachia, that protects flies from viral infection, the origin of 2009 influenza H1N1 virus, and the lure of original antigenic sin. Download TWiV #61 (45 MB .mp3, 62 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Variation in antiviral protection mediated by different Wolbachia strains in Drosophila simulans Wolbachia induces resistance to RNA virus infections in Drosophila Wolbachia reduces blood-feeding success in Dengue mosquito Did 2009 H1N1 influenza come from a laboratory? Influenza original antigenic sin in mice but not in humans Dengue outbreak in Mexico (thanks Swiss co... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3061372 Sun, 06 Dec 2009 14:35:07 +0100 3061372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3059364&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FnChi-DNuUM4%2F When will the 2009 swine-origin influenza virus become a seasonal strain? While prediction is very hard, especially of the future (at least according to Yogi Berra), examining past pandemics can be informative. The 1968 pandemic began with the emergence of a novel H3N2 influenza virus in Hong Kong in July 1968. First isolates (stars) were obtained globally throughout the summer. The previous seasonal H2N2 strain was last isolated in August 1968 in Australia and was subsequently not seen again. There were sporadic H3N2 outbreaks for several months (hatched lines). Epidemic spread (solid lines) ensued in the northern hemisphere throughout the winter, and then ceased in the spring of 1969. In the southern hemisphere the first epidemic occurred from January through October. There were second ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3059364 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:17:32 +0100 3059364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056284&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.virology.ws%2FCUvaccines2009.mov Today I lectured on viral vaccines in the Immunology course at the Morningside Heights campus of Columbia University. I used poliovirus and influenza virus vaccines to illustrate general principles of immunization. My thanks to the engaged students who asked excellent questions! Here is a video of my lecture. Thanks to ScreenFlow, I was able to record my audio along with the slides and post it here the same day. Next semester I’ll be teaching a new undergraduate virology course at Columbia University, and I plan to upload similar videos of each lecture – 26 in all. I’ll post more information here about that course in early 2010. Download ‘Vaccines’ video. 67 MB .mov video file 247 MB .wmv video file (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056284 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:18:04 +0100 3056284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3047871&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FfPQVRzxWswg%2F The New York Times has published an editorial entitled “The Swine Flu, as of Now” which presents their views of the current influenza pandemic. The piece covers the number of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths; the distribution of vaccines, and lists those most at risk for severe disease. It begins with a positive view: So far, the news about swine flu is better than expected. The pandemic may have reached its peak and is heading downward in all regions of the country; weekly deaths from the swine flu have started to decline; the virus remains relatively mild; there seem to be few claims of serious side effects from the vaccine; and despite widespread complaints about shortages, vaccine supplies are steadily building up. The wording suggests that the pandemic is over, but... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3047871 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:25:35 +0100 3047871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044684&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F01%2Fswine-flu-vaccination-social-care-communications-toolkit%2F Title: Swine flu vaccination: social care communications toolkit Skinny: Materials to support local communication teams in communicating the value of having the swine flu vaccination. The toolkit consists of a leaflet which could be used to brief staff and which responds to the questions frontline staff are asking about the vaccines, press adverts and posters – some of which have space available for local messages. Publisher: DH Published: 12/11/2009 Materials: Low-resolution leaflet: image of social care worker with child High-resolution leaflet: image of social care worker with child Low-resolution leaflet: image of social care worker with older person High-resolution leaflet: image of social care worker with older person Low-resolution poster: image of social care worker with ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044684 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:53:53 +0100 3044684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039732&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F30%2Fswine-flu-and-rough-sleepers-for-organisations-working-with-rough-sleepers-in-england%2F Title: Information for organisations working with rough sleepers in England Skinny: Information prepared for those who are working with or providing services for rough sleepers during the swine flu pandemic.  It provides advice on how to support rough sleepers and signposts to guidance and other useful sources. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 5p Published: 25/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Homelessness, NHS, Voluntary Sector Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Homelessness, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic, Voluntary Sector (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039732 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:29:06 +0100 3039732 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039733&cid=t_106584_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F30%2Fswine-flu-updated-guidance-for-mental-health-services%2F Title: Swine flu updated guidance for mental health services Skinny: Updated guidance for Mental Health services and partners on planning and responding to the Swine Flu H1N1 pandemic. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 31p Published: 26/11/2009 Posted in Grey Literature, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic Tagged: Grey Literature, H1N1, Influenza, Mental Health, NHS, Pandemic (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039733 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:22:35 +0100 3039733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044307&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV060video.wmv Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Dickson Despommier Vincent and Dick continue Virology 101 with a discussion of how RNA viruses produce mRNA and replicate their genomes. Download TWiV #60 (51 MB .mp3, 71 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Diagrams of viral RNA synthesis Animations of influenza virus and HIV-1 replication Video for this episode – see below Weekly Science Picks Dick The Double Helix by James D. Watson Vincent Worms and Germs Blog Send your virology questions and comments (email or mp3 file) to twiv@twiv.tv or leave voicemail at Skype: twivpodcast. You can also send articles that you would like us to discuss to delicious and tag them with to:twivpodcast. Below is a video of TWiV 60, which highlights the diagrams I r... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044307 Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:30:17 +0100 3044307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3022728&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FR2_2kJHRwx0%2F The Norwegian Institute of Public Health recently identified a mutation in 2009 H1N1 influenza virus isolated from two patients who died and one with severe disease. It has been suggested that this mutation, which causes a change from the amino acid aspartic acid to glycine at position 225 of the viral HA protein (D225G), could make the virus more likely to infect deeper in the airways and cause more severe disease. What is the basis for this concern and does it have merit? Attachment of all influenza A virus strains to cells requires sialic acids. There are a number of chemically different forms of sialic acids, and influenza virus strains vary in their affinity for them. Human influenza A strains bind preferentially to sialic acids linked to galactose by an alpha(2,6) bond, while avian a... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3022728 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:57:49 +0100 3022728 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016915&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV059.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Alan Dove, Rich Condit, Gustavo Palacios, and Mady Hornig A TWiV panel of five considers the finding of Streptococcus pneumoniae in fatal H1N1 cases in Argentina, hysteria in the Ukraine over pandemic influenza, and human vaccinia infection after contact with a raccoon rabies vaccine bait. Download TWiV #59 (58 MB .mp3, 80 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Argentine flu death mystery H1N1 influenza outbreak in Ukraine (article one and two, and WHO statement) Human vaccinia infection after contact with rabies vaccine bait Agrippal S1 inactivated H1N1 vaccine (pdf – thanks Ariel and Ayelet) Nick’s letter on are viruses and life Take the poll: are viruses alive? Weekly Science Picks Rich Longitu... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016915 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:45:28 +0100 3016915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016916&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FKbH818sflWc%2F As week 46 of 2009 comes to a close, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that influenza has peaked in the US. That conclusion is based on the agency’s influenza surveillance program, summarized in this figure: Does this mean that pandemic influenza is over? Absolutely not. This is just the second wave, sparked when school began in the fall. Recall the the first wave of H1N1 infections that took place during the spring and summer: It’s interesting to note that seasonal H1N1 and H3N2 strains are nearly gone. Of the 10,803 specimens tested by the CDC during week 45, 3,106 were confirmed as novel H1N1, one was seasonal H1N1, and no H3N2 strain was detected. There will be more influenza to come in the winter. A catalyst might be increased travel as we come upon... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016916 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:01:14 +0100 3016916 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3012458&cid=t_106584_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FPDbm2kwjI2w%2F Children who have asthma are at higher risk of developing problems if they contract the H1N1 flu, more so than if they have the seasonal flu, say researchers. Researchers in Toronto, Canada, investigated the differences between 58 children with H1N1 who were admitted to the Hospital for the Hospital for Sick Kids, in Toronto, and 200 who had been admitted to the same hospital with complications from the seasonal flu, between 2004 and 2008. The researchers found that 22% of the children who were admitted because of H1N1 had asthma, while only 6% of those with seasonal influenza were asthmatic. In addition, about 50% of those children with H1N1 who had to be admitted to the intensive care unit had asthma (study). Other differences included: Older children were admitted with H1N1 than with t... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3012458 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:37:45 +0100 3012458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016918&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FUuO7_bq9S78%2F A number of readers have asked when we would have information about the safety of the influenza 2009 H1N1 vaccine. The World Health Organization has just released briefing note #16 “Safety of pandemic vaccines” in which they summarize vaccination information from 16 countries in which 80 million doses of vaccine have been administered. Side effects commonly reported include swelling, redness, or pain at the injection site, which usually resolve soon after vaccination. Fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and a variety of allergic reactions, occurring shortly after vaccine administration, have also been reported less frequently. There have been fewer than ten cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome reported in H1N1 vaccine recipients. These numbers are consistent with normal backgro... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016918 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:22:20 +0100 3016918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016919&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F_cPMuuWH1d0%2F Although the influenza 2009 H1N1 vaccine produced by Novartis, Fluvirin, was previously approved for use in the US, the clinical data supporting its safety and immunogenicity had not been released. The company has now issued a media release containing interim clinical data on the effects of the vaccine in humans. According to the company, testing of the vaccine in 4,080 adult and elderly (>65 years) US individuals has revealed that a half dose (3.75 micrograms) without adjuvant “fulfilled immune response criteria associated with protection”. I assume that the latter statement means that hemagglutination inhibition titers of 1:40 or greater were observed, but this is not explicitly stated.  Current US guidelines for the 2009 H1N1 2009 vaccine stipulate that adolescents, adul... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016919 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:08:19 +0100 3016919 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016921&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FuT27EUkmad4%2F The emergence of oseltamivir (Tamiflu)-resistant 2009 H1N1 influenza virus in a Canadian family illustrates the basic concept that viral loads depend on the dose of antiviral drug. Neuraminidase inhibitors like Tamiflu and Relenza are used to treat severe illness caused by the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus. The antiviral drugs may also be used to prevent infection in high-risk persons, a use called postexposure prophylaxis. For Tamiflu, that means taking 75 mg a day, compared with the same dose twice a day for treating a confirmed infection. Unfortunately, using sub-optimal levels of an antiviral drug is a recipe for disaster. In this case, a boy with asthma developed confirmed H1N1 influenza and was given Tamiflu twice a day. Tamiflu was also prescribed once a day for all members... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016921 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:00:37 +0100 3016921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016922&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2FbhhPsUBNuM4%2F GlaxoSmithKline’s inactivated 2009 influenza H1N1 vaccine has been approved by the US Food & Drug Administration and by Health Canada. This action completes the list of pandemic H1N1 vaccines which I previously summarized for the US and Canada. Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 monovalent vaccine is produced by ID Biomedical Corporation of Quebec, a wholly-owned subsidiary of GlaxoSmithKline. The US package insert can be found here (pdf) and the Canadian package insert here. Dosing recommendations for Canada are listed here. Health Canada has also posted a FAQ on the H1N1 vaccine. The ID Biomedical vaccine is available only in multi-dose vials which contain thimerosal. Each 0.5 ml dose contains 15 micrograms of viral antigen. Other components of the vaccine listed at Health Canada include ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016922 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:24:08 +0100 3016922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2995529&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV058.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello, Dick Despommier, Alan Dove, and Joshua Stillman In episode 58 of the podcast “This Week in Virology”, Vincent, Dick, and Alan are joined by emergency medicine physician Dr. Joshua Stillman to talk about passive antibody therapy for Nipah infection in ferrets, annual influenza immunization of children, facemasks to prevent influenza, predicting dengue outbreaks by the weather, and the amazing viral communities in an icy Antarctic lake. Download TWiV #58 (52 MB .mp3, 73 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Post-exposure passive antibody therapy for Nipah virus in ferret Image above left shows Nipah viral antigen (red) in ferret brain ependymal epithelium Is yearly influenza vaccination of children ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2995529 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:55:11 +0100 2995529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016923&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F5Tc0pJIJEx4%2F We’ve made no secret of our enthusiasm for the vaccine against the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. To help you find locations near you for obtaining both the seasonal and 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine, Google has developed a feature for the US called the flu shot finder at www.google.com/flushot. Google notes on their blog that this project is just beginning and information has not yet been received about flu shot clinics for many locations. Many locations that are shown are also out of stock. Google has been working with HHS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local health agencies to gather information on flu vaccine locations across the country for both the nasal-spray vaccine and the inactivated vaccine shot. Data for locations of flu vaccine are currentl... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016923 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:24:37 +0100 3016923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3016925&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FVirologyBlog%2F%7E3%2F6lLEi6_Ck78%2F This study was carried out – where else? – in Switzerland, where 7 million individuals exchange 20 – 100 million banknotes each day. Thomas Y, Vogel G, Wunderli W, Suter P, Witschi M, Koch D, Tapparel C, & Kaiser L (2008). Survival of influenza virus on banknotes. Applied and environmental microbiology, 74 (10), 3002-7 PMID: 18359825 (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3016925 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:13:28 +0100 3016925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2971843&cid=t_106584_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV057.mp3 Host: Vincent Racaniello On episode #57 of the podcast “This Week in Virology”, Vincent visited Scotch Plains – Fanwood High School and talked about viruses with high school biology students. Download TWiV #57 (68 MB .mp3, 94 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Vincent’s presentation (pdf – coming Monday) Thank you letters Oncolytic reovirus Does rhinovirus interfere with influenza? Send your virology questions and comments (email or mp3 file) to twiv@twiv.tv or leave voicemail at Skype: twivpodcast. You can also send articles that you would like us to discuss to delicious and tagging them with to:twivpodcast. (Source: virology blog) virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2971843 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:54:28 +0100 2971843