JAMA Commentary Explores Common Arguments Against Influenza Vaccination
JAMA has posted a Viewpoint titled Influenza Prevention Update: Examining Common Arguments Against Influenza Vaccination. In this Viewpoint, Thomas R. Talbot, MD, MPH, and H. Keipp Talbot, MD, MPH, from the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, say that with influenza intensifying, it is important to review essential interventions that prevent influenza transmission at home, at work, and in healthcare facilities. They provide perspective to some of the reasons why people refuse the flu vaccination.Â
As Talbot, et al. note, "Several important actions should be performed by everyone to prevent the spread of this potentially deadly pathogen. Basic infection control practices such as regularly performing hand hygiene, observing respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette (cover your cough), and avoiding others and crowded areas when ill (social distancing) are important prevention methods for any contagious respiratory tract infection. Additional measures to limit transmission of influenza in healthcare settings are also essential. These include screening patients on arrival to assess for respiratory symptoms, placing a surgical mask on potentially infected individuals, using isolation precautions for those suspected of having or confirmed to have a respiratory tract infection, keeping infected patients away from other patients, and ensuring that visitors and healthcare personnel (HCP) do not visit or work while ill (ie, presenteeism).
To read further from JAMA, CLICK HERE.
Reference: Talbot TR and Talbot HK. Influenza Prevention Update: Examining Common Arguments Against Influenza Vaccination. JAMA. 2013;():1-2. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.453.
Â
Ensuring Safety and Comfort: The Urgent Need for Well-Fitted PPE in Health Care
April 5th 2024Personal protective equipment (PPE) stands as the first line of defense against infectious diseases in health care. Yet, the issue of ill-fitting PPE, especially for women, remains a significant challenge.
COVID-19 Harmonization: Balancing Risks and Benefits of CDC's Latest Move
March 11th 2024The CDC's recent decision to align recommendations for respiratory viruses, particularly COVID-19, has garnered support from the public and infectious disease societies. However, as the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) lends its backing to the CDC's harmonization efforts, concerns persist regarding the implications of this shift, especially considering the Omicron variant's unique characteristics and the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19's multi-system impacts.
Voices of Resilience: Q&A With the Editor of "Corona City: Voices From an Epicenter"
March 1st 2024Step into the diverse and poignant world of "Corona City: Voices From an Epicenter" with editor Lorraine Ash, MA. In this insightful Q&A, learn about the origins of this remarkable anthology, the challenges faced in capturing raw, unfiltered narratives of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impact of these stories on readers and communities alike.
Rare Disease Day 2024: Spotlight on Rare Infectious Diseases
February 29th 2024Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2024, shines a global light on the impact of rare diseases, including rare infectious diseases. With a focus on early diagnosis and treatment access, this day highlights the struggles of those with rare conditions.
