Lawsuit charges contaminated meat caused illnesses Nov 10, 2009
Children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals are the most susceptible to food borne illnesses, she said. It s possible that 20 times more became sick, she said, noting that the CDC only collects data on individuals who have already had a stool or lab sample taken. (Marshfield Mariner, MA)
Pathogen protection and virulence: Dark side of fungal membrane protein revealed Nov 7, 2009
The scientists looked at two different fungal pathogens: Alternaria brassicicola, which causes widespread damage in crops like canola, cabbage and broccoli, and Aspergillus fumigatus, a human pathogen that often leads to fatal disease in immunocompromised patients. Infection with A. fumigatus can lead to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, the leading cause of death due to invasive fungal infections in humans. (EurekAlert!)
Spreading swine flu to avoid going broke Nov 4, 2009
H1N1, just like seasonal flu, is a proven killer among the three usual at-risk populations (the young, the old, and the immunocompromised) plus everyone with respiratory ailments. Much as it seems you think that way, H1N1 and seasonal flu mortality is not some kind of elaborate hoax. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
Caswell County Health Department offers information on seasonal flu, H1N1 Nov 4, 2009
g., parents, siblings, and day care providers), health care and emergency medical services personnel, people 6 months through 24 years of age, and, people 25 years through 64 years of age who have certain medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, immunocompromised, etc. that put them at higher risk for influenza-related complications. (Yanceyville Caswell Messenger, NC)
Immunotherapy Demonstrates Long-term Success In Treating Lymphoma Nov 3, 2009
"Therapy with EBV-specific CTLs was effective for these severely immunocompromised patients. The CTLs successfully reached tumors, multiplied, and were able to kill the tumor cells," said lead study author Helen Heslop, MD, of the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy at Baylor College of Medicine, The Methodist Hospital, and Texas Children's Hospital. While the successful outcomes result from a number of factors in the study, the researchers attribute some of the success of the trial to the time of... (Science Daily)
WHO says A/H1N1 flu vaccines safe Oct 31, 2009
SAGE further stressed the need for studies to determine dosage regimens effective in immunocompromised persons, those with weakened immune systems. Concerning vaccines for pregnant women, SAGE noted that related studies had found no evidence of direct or indirect harmful effects on fertility, pregnancy, development of the embryo or fetus, birthing, or post-natal development. (Xinhuanet, China)
MedImmune to present 4 abstracts on RSV and influenza at 47TH Annual IDSA Meeting Oct 31, 2009
If Guillain-Barre syndrome has occurred with prior influenza vaccination or if an individual is immunocompromised, the decision to give FluMist should be based on careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks. FluMist should not be administered to individuals with underlying medical conditions predisposing them to wild-type influenza infection complications unless the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk. (EurekAlert!)
Swine Flu Etiquette: Should families self quarantine? Oct 29, 2009
I am somewhat immunocompromised ... But I find the deliberate sending of sick kids to school to be endangering me (and the immunocompromised kids and adults) who are there. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Living)
Flu Shots Not To Be Sneezed At: Study Highlights Need To Educate High-risk Patients Oct 24, 2009
8, 2009) Because morbidity and mortality related to influenza are increased in immunocompromised patients, such as patients with the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus, it is recommended that. (Sep. (Science Daily)
The bowels of infection Oct 21, 2009
Onyeagocha et al suggest that "latent infection by CMV, and perhaps other common viruses, may modulate mucosal immunity and, consequently, alter one's susceptibility to developing severe acute colitis in response to various challenges and, consequently, may predispose to developing IBD." In future studies, Dr. Gewirtz and colleagues plan to use "retrospective serologic analysis [to] confirm the notion that latent CMV infection increases risk of developing IBD. [Although vaccines to CMV are no... (EurekAlert!)
A Pox on You Oct 21, 2009
According to Paul Offit, the chief of the infectious diseases division at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and author of , the danger that nonvaccinated children pose to immunocompromised children couldn't be clearer ... Pertussis can be fatal to infants and the immunocompromised if it is not diagnosed in time to complete antibiotic therapy. (Slate)
Dow crosses 10,000; on the right, crickets chirp Oct 15, 2009
It makes no sense to limit vaccination to children age 2-4 when a child age 10 have been dying this week; further few physicians listed on the state locator have received any form of vaccine (the mist for 2-49) and the shot for immunocompromised people, over 49s and those who are pregnant. F. Sinkwich. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
Early Symptoms of Swine Flu Virus Oct 3, 2009
2; "Vaccination with a Live Virus Vaccine: Vaccine recipients or their parents/guardians should be informed by the health care provider that FluMist is an attenuated live virus vaccine and has the potential for transmission to immunocompromised household contacts.". Preventing complications from the flu, like pneumonia, is the best way to survive a swine flu epidemic. (Suite101.com)
UHS awaits H1N1 shots Oct 1, 2009
However, people who are pregnant, have asthma or are immunocompromised are unable to get the nasal version. Only those with egg allergies are unable to receive the injectable form, Spear said. (Daily Collegian, PA)
Emotional Plea from H1N1 Victim's Parents Oct 1, 2009
CISCO, Texas, Sept. 30, 2009. Mom, Stepfather of Texas Teen Who Died Sunday Tell Other Parents To Follow Their Instincts in Dealing with Kids Who Get It. (CBS News -- Health)
Approach swine flu vaccination with a shot of skepticism (4) Sep 30, 2009
The emergence and spread of this mysterious influenza virus which consists of pig, bird and human genetic particles, will no doubt become a serious health threat to people, especially the immunocompromised. Nevertheless, swine flu (also called H1N1 virus) is the newest disease to be promoted to the public. (Lodi News Sentinel, CA)
XOMA to Develop Therapeutic Antibody for H1N1 and H5N1 Influenza Viruses Under $2.2 Million U.S. Government Program Managed by SRI International Sep 24, 2009
The antibody, known as F10, could provide a new alternative to treating both seasonal and pandemic virus infections, particularly for patients who have drug-resistant virus strains, are immunocompromised, or have not been vaccinated ... Dr. Marasco commented, "Individuals who are immunocompromised due to illness or certain medications often cannot generate an appropriate immune response to standard vaccines. An antibody such as the one we developed could be of particular importance for these... (Primezone Releases)
Lexington to distribute vaccines next month Sep 23, 2009
Pneumococcal vaccine Available to ages 19 and up who smoke tobacco products or have asthma, are 65 and older, those immunocompromised or chronically ill, or those people 65 and older who received the vaccine before age 65 and five years has since elapsed. Upon arrival at Cary Hall. (Lexington Minuteman, MA)
Cornell flu death opens eyes Sep 16, 2009
"You don't know who might be immunocompromised. It's striking very close to home.". Cornell junior Chris Nieves agreed, saying the campus community is very somber. (Daily Collegian, PA)
How to Protect Your Child from Swin... Sep 5, 2009
Just like older strains of influenza, the H1N1 flu virus is more dangerous for children, the elderly, and people who are immunocompromised. These people are not only more susceptible for infection, but the symptoms that follow swine flu infection can lead to serious complications and even death. (Suite101.com)
Giving Swine Flu Drug by IV Could Save Lives Sep 4, 2009
"The individual involved was at very high risk of having very serious complications of the novel H1N1 because the person was very immunocompromised," Gross pointed out. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has placed people with chronic underlying illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes or cancer, and those with compromised immune systems high on the list of those at risk for severe or life-threatening H1N1 infections. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Health)
Doctor's orders: Don't panic about flu Aug 30, 2009
- Cancer patients, AIDS patients or anyone who is immunocompromised. - Renal dialysis patients. (The Augusta Chronicle)
The Safety of the Swine Flu Vaccine Aug 22, 2009
Because of its deadly effects on immunocompromised patients and children, a swine flu vaccine has been discovered ... Immunocompromised individuals can benefit from the cure. (Suite101.com)
UTSA biology researchers demystify elusive war zone bacterium Aug 17, 2009
The symptoms of Acinetobacter infections are mild to severe and present in a variety of ways, but are mostly found in immunocompromised individuals. Signs may include urinary tract infections and respiratory infections post-surgery, pneumonia following health care treatment, bacteria in the blood, deep wound infections, bone and bone marrow infections, or skin and soft-tissue infection. (EurekAlert!)
C. Difficile Spores Spread Superbug Jul 22, 2009
Lawley T D et al. Antibiotic treatment of Clostridium difficile carrier mice triggers a supershedder state, transmission, and severe disease in immunocompromised hosts. Infection and Immunity, DOI. (Science Daily)
ALERT: CITY OF WASHINGTON ISSUES BOIL WATER ORDER Jul 19, 2009
Children under the age of five, the elderly, and people whose health is immunocompromised (i. e., people who have long-term illnesses such as cancer or AIDS) are at greater risk of severe illness. (Missourian Publishing, MO)
HIV-related Death: Predicting Fatal Fungal Infections Jul 5, 2009
These findings could be important for many other immunocompromised patients in addition to those infected with HIV. "We think that knowing whether transplant recipients or other patients taking immunosuppressive drugs have low numbers of IgM memory B cells could be useful in deciding which patients should receive antifungal drugs to prevent meningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans," says Dr. Pirofski. Krishanthi Subramanian, Ph. (Science Daily)
Nanotechnology Combats Fatal Brain Infections Jun 30, 2009
3, 2007) Interferon, the "superhero" cure for viral infections, may be a strong weapon in the battle against fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, according to a new article. Fungal infections. (Science Daily)
A Pet's Bite Can Pass on MRSA Jun 24, 2009
"Contact with an asymptomatic pet is not a risk factor for sensitive or immunocompromised patients for acquiring S. aureus, because most household pets are not likely to be MRSA colonized," the researchers wrote. SOURCE: The Lancet Infectious Diseases, news release, June 21, 2009. (MEDLINEplus)
K-State Veterinarian Says Although Exotic Pets Can Be Great Companions, There Are Health Factors That Can Affect Both the Animal and Humans Jun 19, 2009
Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that reptiles not be kept in homes with children younger than 5 years or with immunocompromised people, he said. West said typically there are no signs or symptoms to tell if an exotic animal is a carrier of salmonella or other diseases, though the animal could infect other pets. (PR Newswire)
UCB's CIMZIA(R) (certolizumab pegol) Approved by the U.S. FDA for Adult Patients Suffering From Moderate to Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis May 14, 2009
Patients who develop a new infection during treatment with CIMZIA should be closely monitored, undergo a prompt and complete diagnostic workup appropriate for immunocompromised patients, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be initiated. Appropriate empiric antifungal therapy should also be considered while a diagnostic workup is performed for patients who develop a serious systemic illness and reside or travel in regions where mycoses are endemic. (PR Newswire)
Guest commentary: Why kids should stay home from school if they have the flu May 10, 2009
People of all ages who are immunocompromised are also at risk. Children appear to shed virus for a longer period of time, and thus are contagious for longer. (Cambridge Chronicle, MA)
Delivering Chemo Directly Into Brain Tumors Shows Promise May 6, 2009
After injecting cancerous glioma cells into immunocompromised mice, researchers injected the mice with controlled-release nanoparticles that were able to carry the chemotherapy drug fluorouracil (Adrucil) to the tumor site. The University of Virginia researchers then used high-intensity ultrasound to release the agents in the microvessels feeding the tumor. (MEDLINEplus)
Cancer-causing virus associated with higher risk of new HIV infection May 1, 2009
"We looked at HIV-negative men who have sex with men who were at high risk for HIV infection and who had multiple risk factors. Our results showed a strong independent association for increased risk of HIV acquisition among those men who were already infected with anal HPV," said the study's lead investigator, Peter V. Chin-Hong, MD, associate professor of clinical medicine and director of the program in transplant and immunocompromised host infectious diseases at UCSF.. The 1400 study... (EurekAlert!)
Vical Updates Lead Vaccine Programs At NFID Vaccine Research Conference and Addresses Potential Response to H1N1 Swine Influenza Outbreak Apr 28, 2009
Live, attenuated vaccines can induce both antibody and cellular immune responses, but pose a potential safety concern, particularly for immunocompromised patients, of causing the disease they are intended to prevent. CyMVectin(tm) Prophylactic CMV Vaccine. (Primezone Releases)
Legislation could end nutritionist's practice Apr 2, 2009
The nutritionist points out that eating sugar has been proven to lower immunity (as early as 1951 in mainstream medical studies), so feeding sugar to an already immunocompromised person further lessens their bodies' natural defenses. In response to questions about the video, which she says she doesn't have time to review, Edwards comments that dieticians are always learning more about their field. (Chetek Alert, WI)
Infants to take part in flu trial Mar 24, 2009
The vaccine, which is reformulated each season based on the strains of influenza circulating in the world, is 70 to 90 per cent effective in healthy adults, but less effective in infants, the elderly and immunocompromised patients. Children have up to 50 per cent chance of contracting the flu in any season. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Nitric oxide synthase 2A (NOS2A) polymorphisms are not associated with invasive pneumococcal disease Mar 24, 2009
Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is responsible for over one million deaths per year, with young children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals being most at risk. Approximately half of East African children have been reported to be aysmtomatic carriers of pneumococcus with invasive infection occurring after the disruption of the respiratory membrane which is believed to be caused by the host immune response. (BioMed Central)
Bioinformatics Sheds Light On Evolutionary Origin Of Rickettsia Virulence Genes Mar 20, 2009
20, 2007) Infection with the fungus Candida parapsilosis is a major problem for individuals in intensive care units, as well as for premature infants and immunocompromised adults. Innovative research using a. (Science Daily)
Drug-resistant Influenza A Virus Potentially Serious To High-risk Patients Mar 3, 2009
"Early identification and prolonged isolation precautions appear prudent in the care for infected immunocompromised patients to prevent [hospital] influenza virus outbreaks. This study confirmed that circulating H274Y-mutated A(H1N1) viruses can retain significant pathogenicity and lethality, as shown in these elderly or immunocompromised patients with lymphocytopenia, underlining the urgency for the introduction of new effective antiviral agents and therapeutic strategies," the authors write.... (Science Daily)
Gram-negative bacteria are drug-resistant superbugs to watch out for Feb 23, 2009
Some people at risk: ICU patients; very young or old patients; people with a lot of other health problems who are already immunocompromised. Some patients who have had a transplant, a burn or some other thing happen to them. (CNN)
New Hope For Immunocompromised Individuals With Drug-resistant Fungal Infections Feb 11, 2009
Immunocompromised individuals--including HIV, chemotherapy, and organ transfer patients--with resistant fungal infections suffer mortality rates ranging from 50 to 90 percent ... 3, 2007) Interferon, the "superhero" cure for viral infections, may be a strong weapon in the battle against fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, according to a new article. (Science Daily)
The Hsp90-Antifungal Combo, please: Compromising fungi in the immunocompromised Feb 10, 2009
Immunocompromised individuals--including HIV, chemotherapy, and organ transfer patients--with resistant fungal infections suffer mortality rates ranging from 50 to 90 percent. "Being a pediatric oncologist, I have seen many unfortunate patients die from resistant fungal infections," says Luke Whitesell, a scientist in the lab of Whitehead Member Susan Lindquist. (EurekAlert!)
Vaginal Innard Course Feb 8, 2009
The Cleveland Clinic's director of laparoscopic surgery , "There is the risk of infection having the kidney passing through a contaminated area and then going to another patient who is immunocompromised.". say the good doctors at Johns Hopkins. (Slate)
Transfusion-Acquired Parasite Infection up in US Feb 7, 2009
Doctors should consider babesiosis in immunocompromised patients fever with a history of recent transfusion, Dr. Diane M. Gubernot at the FDA in Rockville, Maryland, and colleagues advise in a report in the medical journal Clinical Infectious Diseases. Gubernot and colleagues queried FDA safety surveillance systems for trends in babesiosis reporting since 1997. (MEDLINEplus)
Molecular Target For Treatment Of West Nile Encephalitis Identified Through Studies In Mice Feb 7, 2009
6, 2009) In animal studies, researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Yale University have identified molecular interactions that govern the immune system's ability to defend the brain against West Nile virus, offering the possibility that drug therapies could be developed to improve success in treating West Nile and other viral forms of encephalitis, a brain inflammation illness that strikes healthy adults and the elderly and immunocompromised. See also. (Science Daily)
