Flu

Despite the century-long period of virus evolution, 6 of the 11 primates that received a cytomegalovirus-expressed flu vaccine survived the exposure to H5N1 flu.

Proper timing and vaccine selection are crucial for optimal immune responses.

With new guidance coming for the 2024-2025 season, pharmacists must stay up to date with current vaccine recommendations.

A strong recommendation from trusted health care professionals can make a difference.

Confusing product labeling and conflicting data can create challenges for patients.

Pharmacists have become the driving force behind immunizations in the US.

Many ways exist to best serve communities and the bottom line beyond vaccine ordering and increased staffing.

The 4-in-1 respiratory diagnostic test is either a single nasopharyngeal or anterior nasal swab that can confirm or rule out SARS-CoV-2, influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and respiratory syncytial virus with a single test.

Compared to other cases, the most recent patient reported more flu-like symptoms, including cough, congestion, watery eyes, and sore throat.

Although the CDC continues to emphasize that risk to humans is currently low, patients will have questions.

The FDA revisited the use of phenylephrine in OTC medications and called for more substantial evidence supporting its efficacy when taken orally.

Pharmacists' expertise is crucial in educating patients about regulatory changes, helping them navigate alternative formulations, and providing insights into evidence-based choices.

The SHARE model from the CDC involves personalizing recommendations for patients and their needs, addressing any concerns they may have, and explaining the risks of remaining unvaccinated.

The results found that the M2e nanoparticle injection could efficiently protect individuals from influenza A viruses.

Influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus will all peak in the coming months.

Fewer individuals have received the flu shot this season, compared to previous years.

Health policies to adapt to climate change must be altered to protect individuals with respiratory diseases in the warmer season.

Individuals that are younger in age, Black, have low levels of education, and low income were associated with a lower chance of getting the flu shot each year.

mRNA-1083 is an investigational combination vaccine designed to prevent influenza and COVID-19.

In a recent study, approximately 99% of children who received solid organ transplant and live vaccination against rubella had antibodies 1 to 3 months post-vaccination.

Engaging technicians in immunizations has been crucial to public health

mRNA-1083 (Moderna) was found comparable to the standard dose of Fluarix (GSK) in adults aged 50 to 64 years and Fluzone HD ( Sanofi) for influenza and Spikevax (Moderna) for COVID-19.

Similarly, the results of a survey by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases demonstrated that approximately 23% were worried about COVID-19 and 19% for respiratory syncytial virus.

Pharmacists play a vital role in providing education and administering influenza, COVID-19, and RSV Vaccines

Experts answer questions on influenza vaccines.

Community pharmacies and organizations can collaborate to tailor strategies and interventions and address the challenges and specific needs of the community.

By educating their patients on the provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, pharmacists can have an even greater impact by increasing vaccine uptake in historically underserved groups.

Compared with COVID-19 vaccination alone, recent study findings show health care workers who received both a COVID-19 booster and influenza vaccinations did not have lower immune response or more frequent adverse events.

Evidence-based programs and policies to improve vaccine uptake are necessary for both caregivers and the general public because influenza vaccine coverage remains low for both groups.

Senate Bill 219 will also allow pharmacists to independently administer influenza and COVID-19 tests waived by the clinical laboratory improvement amendments.