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Influenza Vaccine Leads in Senior Citizens across Regional Healthcare System

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Title: COVID-19 in Perspective: Vaccination and Infection Rates in Pontevedra and O Salnés

Three years ago, at this time in January, the Pontevedra and O Salnés healthcare area had over 7,000 active COVID-19 cases, marking the pandemic’s peak. The highest number of reported infections was 9,260 on January 21, 2022. Fast-forward to today, those numbers seem distant, and so do the mass vaccination campaigns against the virus. However, the Galicia Regional Ministry of Health continues to work annually on protecting the population against various infectious diseases, focusing on seasonal flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations, particularly for high-risk groups.

According to the latest data, the flu vaccine remains the most accepted among Pontevedra and O Salnés’ residents, with a 79.65% acceptance rate among those over 80 years old, compared to 68.71% for the COVID-19 vaccine in the same age group. This trend continues across all age groups from 60 and above.

The regional government acknowledges that vaccination is one of the most effective tools for preventing severe complications and reducing the transmission of these diseases, thereby preserving public health. However, they also emphasize the need for improvement, as the vaccination rates among healthcare workers and pregnant women in Pontevedra and O Salnés, both considered high-risk groups, are particularly low. Only 44.8% of healthcare workers have received the flu vaccine, and a mere 25.83% have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Likewise, only 2.68% of pregnant women have received the flu vaccine, with 33.01% vaccinated against COVID-19.

The vaccination campaign also targets children aged 6 to 59 months for flu shots, with a current coverage of 55.9%. Furthermore, the campaign to immunize infants against RSV, the leading cause of respiratory infection hospitalizations in children under one year during the fall and winter season, has seen significant progress. As of October 31, 2022, Nirsevimab, the first monoclonal antibody for preventing RSV respiratory infections, was authorized for use in the EU. Currently, 89.56% of infants born since September 23, 2024, and 85.9% of those born since April, have been vaccinated.

Since the start of the holiday season, new cases of both flu and COVID-19 have been reported, leading to an increased strain on emergency services in the Pontevedra and O Salnés healthcare area. The situation worsened after New Year’s Eve, with a significant increase in patient transfers to Montecelo Hospital due to respiratory issues. While the number of cases remains high, especially among the elderly, a full-blown collapse has not yet occurred. The peak for both the flu and COVID-19 is not expected until at least two weeks from now, by which time many unvaccinated individuals may have developed sufficient immunity.

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Health

" Former WHO Director Shares 4 Key Facts about HMPV, the Virus Sweeping China"

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline:
Fighting the HMPV Wave: Facts and Preventive Measures

Subhead:
As China battles a widespread outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Indonesia urges caution and preventive steps.

Article:

The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is currently causing concern worldwide, with a significant outbreak underway in China. Characterized by its rapid spread and the rise in cases, particularly in Northern China, HMPV is drawing international attention, including from Indonesian health authorities.

Dr. Widyawati, MKM, a spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia), has urged the public not to panic. Instead, she stresses the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, regular hand-washing, and using masks in crowded places.

"Currently, there have been no reports of HMPV cases in Indonesia. However, it is crucial for citizens to prioritize their health by adopting clean and healthy habits. This will boost immune systems and prevent the spread of various potentially harmful viruses," Dr. Widyawati stressed, as reported on the official Ministry of Health website on Saturday, January 4, 2025.

Pro među Tjandra Yoga Aditama, a former director of communicable diseases at the World Health Organization (WHO) for Southeast Asia, shares four key points about the virus that the public should be aware of.

1. HMPV is Not a New Virus

Professor Tjandra explained that HMPV was first reported in a scientific journal in the Netherlands in June 2001. The article, titled ‘A newly discovered human pneumovirus isolated from young children with respiratory tract disease,’ detailed the discovery. Subsequent reports emerged from various countries like Norway, Romania, Japan, and China.

"HMPV is not a new virus. Scientists estimate that it has been circulating for decades before its official discovery," Professor Tjandra told detikcom on Saturday, January 4, 2025.

2. HMPV’s Connection with AMPV

Professor Tjandra further explained that the ‘human’ in HMPV shares a connection with Animal Metapneumovirus (AMPV). AMPV, previously known as Turkey Rhinotracheitis Virus (TRTV), was first identified in 1978 in South Africa. With four subtypes, AMPV causes diseases in poultry. Experts believe that HMPV in humans is an evolved variant of AMPV subtype C.

3. No ‘State of Emergency’ Declaration by Chinese Authorities

Professor Tjandra refuted false information circulating on WhatsApp, stating that the Chinese government has not declared a ‘state of emergency’ due to HMPV. No official statements from the Chinese government or the WHO support this claim.

4. HMPV vs COVID-19: Not a Fair Comparison

Rumors suggesting HMPV is similar to COVID-19 are unfounded, according to Professor Tjandra. He cited three reasons why:

  • HMPV is not a new or variant virus; it has existed for decades, unlike COVID-19, which is a new strain of the coronavirus.
  • Both viruses primarily affect the respiratory system, with symptoms including coughing, fever, and breathing difficulties. However, HMPV is less severe and does not require hospitalization in most cases.
  • Seasonal increases in respiratory infection cases are common, especially during winter in countries with four distinct seasons, like China. Therefore, drawing parallels between HMPV and COVID-19 based solely on increasing case numbers is inaccurate.

Indonesia remains HMPV-free, but the public must stay vigilant and follow health guidelines to maintain their safety and that of others.

Story by Dyah Puspita Yulta and Sucahyo (dpy/suc)

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Health

Peak Season of Illness in the U.S.: CDC’s Latest Data Reveals

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Holiday Season Brings Surge in Flu Cases Across U.S.

The holiday season has arrived, and with it, a surge in influenza cases across the United States. According to the latest data from government health agencies, 40 states reported high or very high levels of cases last week.

"There’s a lot of flu out there," said Carrie Reed of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While several viruses cause fever, cough, sore throat, and other cold-like symptoms, the influenza virus is currently showing higher trends than other germs, Reed noted. Several strains of seasonal influenza are driving cases, but none is dominant.

Pediatric hospitals have been busy with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases since November, but "now influenza has joined the party," said Dr. Jason Newland, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. "We’re really just starting. Our hospitals are full."

Where are Flu Cases Highest?

One indicator of influenza activity is the percentage of medical visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, this level was roughly equal to the winter respiratory virus peak from last year, occurring around the same time. Reed pointed out that many people avoid doctor’s visits during the holidays if they can, which could skew late-December data with sudden-onset illnesses.

Flu activity last week was particularly intense in the South, Southwest, and West regions of the U.S. States reporting fewer cases were mainly in the northern Great Plains and New England.

So far this season, the CDC estimates at least 5.3 million influenza cases, 63,000 hospitalizations, and 2,700 deaths, including at least 11 children. It’s unclear whether this winter respiratory virus season will be worse than previous ones, but so far, it seems relatively typical for children, Newland noted.

How to Protect Yourself from Seasonal Illnesses

U.S. health officials recommend annual influenza vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, emphasizing it’s not too late to get vaccinated. They also advise avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth (as germs can spread this way), washing hands with soap and water, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Other Germs Under Surveillance

The CDC is also monitoring an increase in norovirus illnesses, an unpleasant stomach virus, with 91 outbreaks reported in early December. They’re closely watching another type of influenza virus, the avian flu Type A H5N1, which caused 66 human cases in the U.S. last year but none in the last week. Cases are "fairly sporadic," and the general risk to the public remains low, Reed said, with almost all tied to direct contact with infected animals.

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Health

"Flu A and Human Metapneumovirus Outbreaks in China: How Indonesia Prepares to Combat These Diseases"

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline:
Worrying Surge of Influenza A and China Enhances Monitoring of Respiratory Diseases”>HMPV in China: Is Indonesia Next? Kementerian Kesehatan Speaks Out

Article:

Jakarta, VIVA – Social media is abuzz with a video showing long queues of patients outside a major hospital in China, many of whom are infected with influenza A and human metapneumovirus (hMPV). This development has sparked concern worldwide, particularly in Indonesia, given the memories of the COVID-19 pandemic that originated in the same region.

As of now, both viruses remain largely contained within China, with no confirmed cases in Indonesia, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Dr. Widyawati, MKM, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, confirms this in a official statement: "Until now, cases of influenza type A and hMPV are still circulating in the Tiongkok region only, and have not been detected in Indonesia."

However, Indonesian authorities are not taking any chances. The government is actively surveilling and monitoring the situation, gathering data to stay informed about any potential health threats. "Currently, our efforts focus on general surveillance and reporting of infectious diseases or emerging new infectious diseases," Dr. Widyawati explains.

While there’s no need for travel bans between Indonesia and China at this point, the Ministry of Health urges everyone to maintain good hygiene practices, stay healthy, and stay informed about the latest developments. "If you must travel abroad, make sure to check the situation and regulations of the country you’re visiting, and always follow health protocols," Dr. Widyawati advises.

For now, Indonesia remains vigilant, ready to act swiftly if any signs of infection emerge. As we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection, prevention, and careful monitoring are key to protecting public health.

Recommended Articles:

  1. Midst of HMPV Outbreak: What are the Dangers and Symptoms?
  2. Viral Video: Is China Hospital Swamped Due to HMPV Outbreak?
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Health

China Arrests Suspected Culprit Behind Surge in HMPV Cases

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline: China‘s Foreign Ministry Addresses Rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Cases

Article:

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has responded to recent concerns surrounding the increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in the country. Speaking at a press conference, spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the video circulating on social media that appears to show an influx of patients at hospitals.

"Respiratory infections tend to peak during winter in the north," Mao stated, referring to the seasonal trend of such ailments. She also cited statements from the National Health Commission of China, which provides guidance on preventing and controlling respiratory diseases during the winter season.

Mao reassured that the current situation is not severe and has a smaller spread compared to previous years. She also emphasized the safety of foreign tourists traveling in China, noting that the government is committed to safeguarding the health of both Chinese citizens and foreign nationals.

Last week, the National Health Commission reported that respiratory disease spread is expected to continue until spring. Some of the most commonly detected infections in hospitals include influenza, rhinovirus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and mycoplasma pneumonia. While cases in children aged 5 to 14 years have declined, there has been an increase in HMPV infections among infants and children under the age of 4 years.

(isa/asa)

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Health

Unraveling the Enigma: Dinga Dinga Virus – A Mystery Illness with Uncontrolled Tremors

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Mysterious ‘Dancing Plague’ Sweeps Ugandan District: Dinga Dinga Virus Causes Uncontrollable Tremors

In a recent medical shock, the world has witnessed the emergence of a mysterious illness known as "Dinga Dinga" in Bundibugyo, Uganda. The unique and alarming symptoms of this condition have grabbed the attention of global health authorities. Translated from the local language, "Dinga Dinga" aptly means "dancing like a puppet," referring to the primary symptom of uncontrollable tremors.

Main Symptoms of the Dinga Dinga Virus

Patients diagnosed with Dinga Dinga typically exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Uncontrollable Tremors: The most striking feature of this illness is the involuntary and continuous shaking of the body, resembling an unending dance.
  • High Fever: Most patients also suffer from high fevers, causing discomfort and weakness.
  • Fatigue and Weakness: Prolonged fatigue and weakness are common, making daily activities challenging.
  • Walking Difficulties: In severe cases, the involuntary tremors can hinder a person’s ability to walk or perform other physical tasks.

Spread and Impact

Since its first outbreak in early 2023, approximately 300 cases of Dinga Dinga have been reported in Bundibugyo, Uganda. While majority of the cases are among women and girls, there have been no reported deaths. The good news is that many patients have recovered within a week after receiving proper medical care.

Cause and Treatment

The precise cause of Dinga Dinga remains uncertain, with experts suspecting it might be linked to an unknown virus or bacterium. Research is ongoing to identify the culprit. Meanwhile, treatment involves administering antibiotics that have shown positive results in aiding recovery. However, traditional remedies without proven efficacy are discouraged.

Prevention Measures

Although the cause is not yet fully understood, the following preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infection:

  • Maintain Hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding contact with people displaying Dinga Dinga-like symptoms can prevent its spread.
  • Seek Medical Care: If you or someone close exhibits any concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical help at a reputable healthcare facility.
  • Avoid Unproven Traditional Remedies: Until more is known about this condition, it’s best to steer clear of untested herbal treatments or home remedies.

The Dinga Dinga virus is a newly emerged health phenomenon that warrants serious attention from both the public and healthcare authorities. While its symptoms can be disturbing, most patients recover with appropriate medical care. Further research is crucial to understand this condition better and develop more effective management strategies.

Stay informed andSafe!

Source: Ntvnews.id

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Health

"Fever Persists for Days, Reaching 39-40°C"

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Influencia Explodes in Italy: Experts Warn of Peak as Cases Surge

The influenza situation in Italy appears to have erupted, even though it hasn’t yet reached its peak, according to Matteo Bassetti, director of the infectious diseases department at the San Martino hospital in Genoa. Data from the Higher Institute of Health reveals that in the last week monitored, from December 16 to 22, the number of influenza-like illness cases in Italy rose to 597,000, with an incidence rate of 10.1 cases per thousand assisted, compared to 18.2 in the same period last year. However, the situation has reportedly deteriorated in recent days, as those "on the ground" attest.

Bassetti: "Influenza Has Exploded Like Expected"

According to Bassetti, the surge can be attributed to people staying at home to prepare for the Christmas Eve feast and the increased interaction with relatives, including children and the elderly. He warns, "The influenza has exploded, as expected."

The situation in hospitals is challenging, Bassetti explains, due to reduced staff during the holidays coupled with the heightened demand from Italy’s aging population that requires constant care. He believes the worst is yet to come, predicting it to hit in the first week of the new year.

Symptoms and Care: Don’t Rush to the Hospital

Bassetti cautions that this year’s influenza leads to high fever that can last for 3 to 5 days. He advises the public not to rush to the hospital over a lingering fever, as it’s a normal part of the influenza cycle. Instead, he recommends taking antipyretics, staying at home, and avoiding antibiotics and visits to the emergency room to prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed.

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Health

Recommended Vaccines during Pregnancy: Latest Research Findings

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Headline: Key Vaccines for Pregnant Women: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:
Embarking on the journey of parenthood comes with a myriad of decisions and precautions, one of which is ensuring you and your unborn child receive necessary vaccinations. The calendar of vaccinations continues to expand, safeguarding against an array of preventable diseases, with particular focus on expectant mothers and the immunity they can pass on to their newborns.

Vaccines Recommended During Pregnancy

  1. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP): This combination vaccine is routinely administered in the third trimester to protect both mother and child. Doctors aim to administer it between the 27th and 36th week, ideally between the 28th and 32nd week. Fátima Benasach, head of Obstetrics at the Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda in Madrid, explains, "The goal is to prevent the mother from contracting pertussis (whooping cough) and transmitting it to the newborn, as well as to transfer antibodies via the placenta for fetal protection until the infant receives its first vaccination."

    Mariona Cardús, a midwife at Yummy Mummy, warns, "If this vaccine is not administered, the baby could contract pertussis in the first months of life, which can be severe."

  2. Influenza: Pregnant women should receive the flu vaccine during the winter months, between September and March, at any stage of pregnancy. As Benasach advises, "This vaccine prevents the mother from contracting the flu, which could lead to respiratory problems, fever, or rapid heartbeats, potentially harming the fetus."

  3. Anti-D: Recommended for Rh-negative mothers between the 27th and 28th week, this vaccine is intended to prevent blood incompatibility between mother and child.

  4. COVID-19: As pregnancy increases the risk of severe illness from COVID-19, vaccination is strongly recommended for all women, regardless of gestational age, with beneficial antibodies transferred to the fetus.

    "Evidence demonstrates the COVID-19 vaccine’s safety and efficacy in expectant mothers and its ability to protect against severe disease and complications," explains Benasach.

For comprehensive protection, women should arrive at pregnancy with all recommended systemic vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; influenza if gestation coincides with the season; COVID-19; and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

A New Protection: The RSV Vaccine
Recently, the European Commission approved the first and only vaccine authorized to protect lactants against RSV through maternal vaccination during the second or third trimester.Administered as a single dose between the 24th and 36th week, this vaccine offers newborns temporary immunity against RSV, a leading cause of infant respiratory infections.

Contraindicated Vaccines During Pregnancy
Live or attenuated vaccines like those for measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chickenpox), and polio (Sabin strain) should be avoided during pregnancy. Other vaccines, including those for diphtheria, tetanus, cholera, meningitis, neumonia, hepatitis A and B, rabies, and polio (Salk), are safe for both mother and child.

Possible Contraindications
While pregnancy is generally not a barrier to vaccination, some precautions should be taken. Isabel Vielsa, a gynaecologist and medical director at Clínicas Eva, advises against vaccination if the mother is unwell or has a fever, waiting until she has recovered to proceed. Minor side effects may occur, similar to those experienced by non-pregnant women vaccinated against these diseases.

Conclusion
The benefits of vaccination during pregnancy far outweigh potential risks. Expectant mothers should consult their healthcare provider to discuss their vaccination history and decide on the best course of action to protect both themselves and their unborn children.

This SEO-optimized article provides an in-depth overview of vaccinations recommended for pregnant women, their importance, and potential contraindications. It is tailored to an audience seeking information on prenatal healthcare and vaccinations.

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Health

H5N1 Pandemic Threat Looms: A Possible Global Crisis in 2025?

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

Bird Flu H5N1: A Potential Global Health Threat by 2025

In a compelling turn of events, scientists have forecasted that bird flu, or Avian Influenza type A H5N1, could pose a serious global health threat by 2025. This virulent strain has been spreading among wild birds, cattle in several US states, and even horses in Mongolia, raising alarm bells in the health community.

The sudden surge in cases, which nearly tripled from just two instances in America over two years to a significant number in 2024, has sparked concerns. Coupled with its high fatality rate among humans, standing at an alarming 30%, the World Health Organization (WHO) has swiftly elevated its status.

Currently, H5N1 does not spread from person to person, significantly reducing pandemic risks. However, its ability to recognize and attach to specific receptors on human cells is what allows viruses to enter and replicate. While highly adapted human viruses easily recognize these receptors, H5N1, due to its bird-adaptive nature, struggles with receptor compatibility, limiting its human infection potential.

Yet, recent research has unearthed a worrying fact: a single genetic mutation could enhance H5N1’s human-to-human transmissibility. This pandemic trigger has led the global health community to strategize accordingly. Some nations, like the UK, have already procured 5 million doses of H5N1 vaccines, anticipating potential threats in 2025.

Although H5N1 still lacks human-to-human transmission capability, its impact on livestock by 2025 is predicted to be substantial. Beyond animal welfare, such an outbreak could disrupt food supplies and negatively affect the global economy.

(ASM/ HSR)

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Health

Expanding HPV Vaccination Coverage in the Canary Islands to Age 18

OR

Canary Islands Expands HPV Vaccination Eligibility to Include 18-Year-Olds

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

New Changes in HPV Vaccination Schedule: Now a Single Dose for Those Up to 18 Years

The General Directorate of Public Health of the Canary Health Service, attached to the Ministry of Health, has introduced changes to the HPV vaccine administration, expanding the vaccine offer with a single-dose schedule for men and women up to 18 years old. This move aligns with the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to broaden population coverage and simplify vaccine schedules.

In line with the latest evidence and the objective of enhancing population protection, the Ministry of Health has revised its HPV vaccination program. This has led to the introduction of a single-dose schedule for girls and boys aged 12, as well as the extension of this single-dose vaccine recommendation to other population groups under 26, such as men who have sex with men and individuals in prostitution. However, for those aged between 26 and 45, the recommendation remains two doses.

The single-dose schedule is shown to be effective, and its adoption is based on growing scientific evidence. Additionally, the new guidelines recommend vaccinating children and adolescents at 12 years old with a single dose, and to capture unvaccinated men and women up to 18 years of age.

For individuals aged 12 to 18, the vaccine against meningococcal tetravalent (MenACWY) is also recommended for those who haven’t already received it during adolescence. In the case of men, this includes those born after December 15, 2005, until the cohort born in 2011 reaches 18 years old, with a single-dose schedule.

Vaccination for People at Risk

Furthermore, vaccination is recommended for unvaccinated individuals with specific risk factors up to 45 years old (inclusive), with a single-dose schedule up to 25 years old, and a two-dose schedule (spaced at least six months apart) from 26 years old, for men who have sex with men and individuals in prostitution.

For those aged up to 45 who are not previously vaccinated against HPV and are immune-compromised, the indications are subject to the criteria of their referring hospital doctor.

However, three-dose schedules are recommended, regardless of the starting age, for individuals belonging to high-risk groups, such as those with the WHIM syndrome, HIV infection, solid organ or hematopoietic stem cell transplant, inflammatory bowel disease, those on heavy immunosuppressive therapy, or those with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis.

In addition, vaccination is also recommended in a three-dose schedule for women of any age who have undergone any escisional treatment for high-grade intraepithelial lesions (CIN2+) or above, and men who have sex with men with anal dysplasia due to HPV. Preferably, vaccination should occur before the treatment for the lesion, or as soon as possible afterward if this isn’t possible.

Vaccination as a Preventive Measure

HPV infection is a viral infection that can cause skin or mucous membrane lesions, such as warts. There are over 100 varieties of HPV, with most infections not leading to cancer. However, some high-risk types of HPV can cause cancer of the cervix, anus, penis, vagina, vulva, and oropharynx. Vaccination protects against the HPV strains most likely to cause these cancers.

Therefore, staying up-to-date with the latest vaccine recommendations, particularly for those in high-risk categories, is essential for preventing HPV-related diseases. The new single-dose schedule could help improve vaccination rates among eligible age groups, thereby enhancing overall population protection.

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