Influenza

With 13 more states reporting widespread flu activity in week 51, flu season continued to ramp up in the final weeks of 2017.

William Schaffner, MD, explains why dogs cannot catch flu from humans.

Despite low flu vaccine effectiveness during Australia’s recent flu season, one new report indicates that the vaccine should be much more effective for the United States this season.

William Schaffner, MD, discusses efforts to develop a universal flu vaccine.

Here is a list of our top 5 viral infectious disease news stories from 2017; Did you read them all?

A triple antiviral drug combination for the treatment of influenza significantly decreased viral shedding but failed to provide clinical benefit.

We’ve compiled the best ways to fight back against colds and flu viruses this holiday season.

More states are reporting widespread flu activity as CDC researchers up their annual estimate of flu deaths around the world.

Two recent federal government decisions and actions could put the public at increased risk for an infectious disease outbreak.

William Schaffner, MD, explains the strengths and weaknesses of the flu vaccine.

Individuals with an egg allergy do not need to avoid the annual flu shot.

As new flu deaths are reported throughout the United States, a pair of studies highlights some of the strengths and weaknesses of the flu shot.

William Schaffner, MD, shares stories to motivate patients and health care providers to receive the flu vaccine.

Despite the increase in the number of human infections with avian influenza A (H7N9) virus during the fifth epidemic in China, a new study suggests no change in the risk of transmission of the virus among humans over time.

Following a severe flu season in the Southern Hemisphere and mounting research that egg-based flu vaccines don’t offer enough protection, experts are warning that the Northern Hemisphere may be in for a tough flu season.

William Schaffner, MD, addresses common misconceptions regarding the influenza vaccine.

A new discovery could lead to a more effective live attenuated influenza vaccine offering extra protection to young children and the elderly.

A total of 50 employees were fired after refusing to get the vaccine.

William Schaffner, MD, offers insight into the 2017-2018 flu season, including which strain of the virus that is expected to be most prevalent.

With news of a Las Vegas-area child’s flu-related death, a new study finds that kids who receive the flu shot have a much lower risk of being hospitalized for the illness.

Researchers from Columbia University have developed their own “nowcasting” model, which leverages online search trends to gain a picture of current, local influenza outbreaks.

William Schaffner, MD, lists some of the common reasons behind why individuals decide against getting their flu shots, and why they should reconsider.

At a recent event called "The Next Pandemic," researchers agreed that the world is not ready for the next big flu pandemic and discussed what it will take to strengthen preparedness.

Two new studies highlight just why the flu vaccine isn’t working and one new approach that may give way to a universal vaccine.

Remembering the links between infectious diseases such as influenza and HIV, among others, and mental health can improve patient outcomes.