Flu/Influenza News

Pregnancy flu shot benefits baby

Getting a flu shot during pregnancy provides unanticipated benefits to the baby, according to the authors of a large population-based study examining the issue.

Universal flu vaccine on the way

University of British Columbia researchers have found a potential way to develop universal flu vaccines and eliminate the need for seasonal flu vaccinations.

Zinc pills may shorten colds

A new analysis has revealed that zinc tablets may help patients suffer a cold a little less, but side effects are common.

SMS's encourage kids flu shots

Research suggests that sending parent’s educational sms about the flu vaccine and where to get it could increase the number of kids and teens protected during flu season.

Mutant bird flu less lethal

The author of a paper on a mutant bird flu strain said that experts agreed to publish it only after he explained that the virus was "much less lethal" than previously feared.

How colds cause coughs and wheezes

Cold-like infections make 'cough receptors' in the airways more sensitive, making asthmatics more prone to bouts of coughing and wheezing.

Why some people battle with flu

A genetic discovery could help explain why flu makes some people seriously ill or kills them, while others seem able to have little more than a few aches, coughs and sneezes.

Bird flu claims fifth victim

A 24-year-old woman has died of bird flu on Indonesia's Sumatra Island, the fifth human death from the virus this year, a health ministry official said.

New flu viruses: balancing risk?

In the controversy surrounding the newly developed strains of avian H5N1 flu viruses, scientists are struggling with one question in particular: what level of bio safety is best?

Taking action against flu

With autumn just around the corner, we need to start thinking about protecting ourselves against the dangerous influenza strains about to hit us.