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Flu Vaccine Timing & Prevention: Tips for Fall Season

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

savannah,⁣ Ga. – Local physicians are strongly recommending individuals receive their flu vaccinations‌ now, ahead of the anticipated flu⁢ season. Dr. ⁤Ben Spitalnick of Pediatric Associates of Savannah urges people to⁣ “get yoru‌ flu vaccine before Halloween.​ Get your ​flu by Boo,” emphasizing the importance of early protection.

spitalnick‍ explained that it takes⁣ two weeks for the flu vaccine to become fully effective, meaning waiting until the flu begins to ‍circulate leaves individuals vulnerable.This year’s vaccine will cover three strains‍ – two A strains ‌and one B strain – mirroring ⁣last year’s formulation, and doctors are optimistic about a good match to circulating viruses.

For those hesitant about injections, Spitalnick noted that most pediatricians​ will offer both the traditional flu shot and a nasal ⁤spray option. He⁤ advises ​taking advantage of a doctor’s ⁢visit to receive‍ the ‌vaccine and avoid an additional trip.

Should someone‌ contract ⁣the flu, early treatment is crucial. dr.​ Spitalnick‍ recommends considering antiviral medications ⁢like Tamiflu,but ⁤stresses the need to begin treatment within the first two days of symptoms ‌for maximum ‍effectiveness.⁢

While confirmed‌ flu cases haven’t yet appeared in the area, ⁤Dr. spitalnick reports a ⁤important number of ⁢children are currently testing positive for COVID-19. Doctors ⁤are looking to Australia ⁢and global trends, which indicate a ⁢typical flu season is ⁢likely.

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Health

Unpredictable Childhood Environments Linked to Mental & Physical Health Issues

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Unpredictable Childhoods Linked to long-Term Health Problems

Table of Contents

A new study highlights the important and lasting impact of ‍unstable environments on children’s development, revealing a strong correlation between unpredictable upbringings ‌and increased risks​ of mental⁢ and physical health issues in adolescence and early adulthood. The research underscores the critical⁢ importance of stability and routine for healthy childhood development.

The Impact of Instability

Researchers found that impulsive parental ‍behaviors, frequent changes in romantic partners, inconsistent childcare arrangements, ⁢and general household chaos were all associated with poorer behavioral outcomes and mental instability as children matured. Conversely, homes characterized by consistent coparenting and established routines fostered better outcomes for youth.

“giving children a script to understand how ​daily events unfold helps set them up for success,” explains Kalsea⁤ Koss, ⁢corresponding author ⁤of the study and an associate professor in⁢ the University of Georgia College of Family and Consumer‌ Sciences’ human development and family science department.”Having a family routine or consistent caregiver that’s very predictable in their behavior is helpful for children to have an understanding of what to expect‍ and then to⁤ be able to build their own behavioral regulation ‍strategies around that.”

Did You Know? ‍

Children thrive in environments where they can anticipate what will ​happen next, fostering ‍a sense ‍of security and control.

Study Methodology and findings

The study, which followed over 4,800 ‍children from birth to age fifteen as part of the Future of Families ‌and Child Wellbeing Study, revealed that children raised in‌ less stable homes were more prone to impulsive⁣ or delinquent behaviors during their teenage years. These behaviors were often ⁢linked to difficulties ⁣in emotional regulation. The‌ study also noted higher reported rates of depression and anxiety among this group.

Researchers emphasize that some change is beneficial. “We don’t have to have really strict, predictable, stable environments always,” Koss says.”Small amounts of changes in our lives are OK as they help us learn how to be flexible and practice emotional and behavioral regulation strategies.” Though, she cautions that “when they⁣ start to pile up and accumulate ⁢across childhood, there’s a⁤ tipping point. It becomes more problematic and ​leads to more of ​these lifelong negative outcomes.”

physical Health Consequences

The impact of unstable environments extended beyond mental health. Many young adults who experienced​ chaotic childhoods exhibited ​higher body mass indexes (BMIs), potentially due to⁢ chronic stress. This finding aligns with ‌research demonstrating the link between adverse ‌childhood experiences (ACEs)‍ and ⁣increased risk of obesity and related health problems⁣ (Felitti et al., 1998).

Factor Associated outcome
Impulsive Parenting Increased delinquent behavior in teens
Frequent Partner Changes Higher rates of depression and anxiety
Childcare Instability Difficulty with emotional regulation
Household Chaos Elevated BMI in young‍ adulthood

The study also acknowledged ‌external ‍factors beyond parental control, such as socioeconomic status. Over one-third of the families⁤ involved were at or below the federal poverty line, leading to frequent moves and residence in less safe ‍neighborhoods.

pro ⁣Tip: Creating consistent⁤ routines, even small ones, ⁢can provide‌ a sense ⁢of ‌stability for children, especially during times of change.

Expanding the Definition of Childhood Adversity

Koss⁢ notes that while chaotic or unpredictable environments might not traditionally be categorized as severe childhood adversity-like maltreatment, abuse, or neglect-the ‍study’s findings suggest or else. “This study expands what we think of as childhood adversity and it shows what is crucial for lifelong health and well-being.” The‌ research suggests that even seemingly less dramatic forms of instability ‌can have profound and⁣ lasting consequences.

What steps can communities take to support families facing economic hardship and ⁣create more stable environments for ⁣children? How can schools and healthcare providers identify and address the needs of children who have experienced unpredictable upbringings?

The research was⁢ conducted⁢ by a ⁤team including researchers from the University of Georgia and Columbia University. Funding for the ‍study was⁣ provided by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Evergreen Context: The Long-Term Effects of ACEs

This research builds⁢ upon decades ⁢of work examining the impact of Adverse Childhood experiences‌ (ACEs) on long-term health and well-being. ⁤ ACEs, including household dysfunction ‌and abuse, are strongly linked ⁤to increased risk ⁢of chronic ​diseases, mental health disorders, and substance abuse (CDC, 2023).‌ Understanding the broader spectrum of childhood adversity, ⁣as highlighted in this ‌study, is⁤ crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What ⁤is considered an unpredictable childhood environment? An unpredictable environment is one lacking consistent routines, stable caregivers, or predictable responses from parents.
  • How does⁤ instability affect a child’s brain development? Chronic stress from instability can disrupt ‌brain ⁢development,⁢ particularly in areas responsible for emotional regulation and impulse control.
  • Can the negative effects of an ⁣unstable childhood ‌be reversed? While early experiences have a⁣ significant ‍impact, interventions like therapy​ and supportive relationships can definitely help individuals develop coping mechanisms and resilience.
  • What role does poverty play in creating unstable environments? ‍ Poverty often leads to frequent moves, unsafe​ neighborhoods, and limited access ⁣to resources, all of which contribute to instability.
  • Are there any positive⁣ aspects to experiencing some level of unpredictability? Moderate change can foster ⁣adaptability ⁢and problem-solving skills, but excessive unpredictability is detrimental.

Source: University of Georgia

We hope this article has provided valuable insights⁢ into the importance of stable environments for children. Please share this information with your network, and feel free to leave a comment below with⁢ your thoughts and experiences. ‌ ‍Don’t forget to subscribe ⁢to World Today News for more breaking news and ⁢in-depth analysis!

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Health

Hand, foot and mouth disease cases rising across multiple parts of US

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

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Hand, foot and mouth disease cases rising across multiple parts of US

An increase in Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) cases is being reported across the United States, prompting health officials to issue preventative guidance. (iStock)

WASHINGTON D.C. – Health officials are observing a rise in cases of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) across the united States, particularly impacting children in daycare and school settings, according to reports surfacing this week. While typically mild, the highly contagious viral illness can, in rare instances, lead to serious neurological complications.

HFMD is most commonly caused by the Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71 viruses. Symptoms typically include

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Health

Study Shows Need for Vigilance When Observing Long COVID Symptoms in Young Children

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Here’s a breakdown of teh key points from the provided text, focusing on the impact of Long COVID on children and what experts suggest should be done:

Concerns about a study on Long COVID in Children:

Methodological Limitations: Experts like Dr. Stockwell and Dr. Al-Aly raised concerns about a study’s methodology. they noted that the study didn’t use diagnostic tests for infection or measure antibodies to COVID-19, which woudl have provided a more accurate screening.
 Asymptomatic Infections: It was pointed out that children not flagged as having COVID in the study might have had asymptomatic infections.
“Proof of Concept”: Despite these concerns, the study was seen as a “proof of concept” that Long COVID could be a more critically important problem in children than previously thought.

The impact of Long COVID on Children:

Wide Range of Symptoms: Long COVID in children can manifest in various symptoms, described as ranging from “annoying to disabling.”
Pain, Distress, and Disability: The chronic illness can cause “pain, distress, or disability,” directly affecting a child’s interactions with family and friends. Impaired Advancement: Long COVID can negatively impact:
School performance
 Athletic performance
The ability to conduct normal, routine activities
 Educational attainment
Friendship formation
 Participation in sports
Long-Term Scars: Experts worry that these impairments during formative years could leave children “scarred for a lifetime.”
 Devastating Impact: Some children can be bedbound for years, and the impact on both the children and their families is described as “devastating.”

What Experts Think Should Be Done:

Improve Vaccine Uptake: Dr. Al-aly emphasized the importance of “improving vaccine uptake.”
 Note on Policy: The article mentions the Trump governance’s removal of COVID vaccines from CDC recommendations for healthy children and pregnant women as part of a campaign.
Increase Understanding: Dr.Stockwell highlighted the need for pediatricians to understand what Long COVID looks like in children and recognise that symptoms can vary by age.
 Develop Effective Treatments: Dr.Kleinman stressed the necessity of developing and identifying effective treatments for Long COVID. This requires a “rapidly iterative and long-term approach” to quickly find promising treatments and evaluate their safety and effectiveness. Address Root causes: Dr. iwasaki stated that treatments need to “get at the root causes of the disease,” which she described as being driven by the virus and the body’s responses involving multiple systems (immune, neurological, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and pulmonary).
 Policy Support: Dr. Iwasaki suggested policy measures such as:
Flexible school attendance
 Proper training for teachers and pediatricians
Insurance coverage
 Increased funding for research
Broader Support: Dr. Kleinman added that supporting children with Long COVID and preventing new cases will require investment in:
 Health and healthcare services
Physical and occupational rehabilitation
 Mental health services

In essence, the text highlights the serious and potentially long-lasting consequences of Long COVID on children’s development and well-being, while also outlining a multi-faceted approach involving improved prevention, increased understanding, effective treatments, and robust policy and healthcare support.

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Health

Thirdhand Smoke: Hidden Danger to Children’s Health

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor
written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Thirdhand Smoke Exposure: Silent Threat to Children‘s Health

Table of Contents

A groundbreaking study indicates that parents frequently underestimate their children’s exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), with a newly recognized phenomenon known as thirdhand smoke emerging as a significant culprit. this is especially concerning for children with asthma, as exposure can trigger attacks.

What is Thirdhand Smoke?

Thirdhand smoke is the chemical residue from tobacco that clings to surfaces long after a cigarette is smoked. These chemicals settle on carpets,furniture,walls,and othre materials .

children are particularly vulnerable because they can inhale or ingest these particles by disturbing contaminated surfaces while playing or by putting their hands in their mouths .

Did You Know? Thirdhand smoke can persist for months, even years, and is resistant to many conventional cleaning methods.

Study Highlights Underestimated Exposure

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science surveyed caregivers of 162 children in New Orleans, Cincinnati, and Boston. while 60% of caregivers reported that their children had no exposure to ETS, urine tests revealed that 100% of the children tested positive for cotinine, a biomarker of tobacco exposure . More than 90% showed intermediate levels of cotinine.

Katherine McKeon, PhD candidate at Tulane University, the study’s lead author, suggests that these findings highlight the pervasive nature of thirdhand smoke and the difficulty in eliminating it from environments.

Pro Tip: Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter and washing surfaces can help reduce thirdhand smoke, but complete removal often requires professional cleaning or replacement of contaminated materials.

impact on children with Asthma

Exposure to tobacco smoke, including thirdhand smoke, poses significant health risks, especially for children with asthma. Environmental tobacco smoke can trigger asthma attacks and exacerbate respiratory problems .

The study also revealed a potential bias in relying solely on caregiver surveys for ETS assessments. While high cotinine levels correlated with asthma attacks, there was no association between caregiver-reported ETS exposure and asthma attacks.

Study Demographics

The children in the study,aged 7-12,resided in federally subsidized public housing.data was collected over a year, with caregivers answering questions about smoking habits in their homes.

Need for Further Research

The findings underscore the need for more research on thirdhand smoke prevalence and its health risks. Option assessment methods, such as cotinine screening, are crucial for accurately gauging children’s exposure to tobacco smoke.

“Our research confirms that relying on caregiver surveys to assess children’s tobacco smoke exposure is inadequate and leads to significant underreporting due to an underestimated prevalence of ETS,” McKeon says.

“This misclassification may hinder proper asthma management and delay critical interventions.”

Key Findings at a Glance

Finding Details
Cotinine Levels 100% of children tested positive for cotinine, indicating tobacco exposure.
Caregiver Reports 60% of caregivers reported no ETS exposure for their children.
Study Locations New Orleans,Cincinnati,and Boston.
Age Group children aged 7-12 years.

The Long-Term Effects of Thirdhand Smoke

Recent studies suggest that thirdhand smoke residue may become more toxic over time and resist conventional cleaning. This highlights the importance of creating smoke-free environments to protect children’s health .

Evergreen Insights: Understanding the Enduring Impact of Thirdhand Smoke

Thirdhand smoke represents a significant, yet frequently enough overlooked, public health challenge. Unlike secondhand smoke, which dissipates relatively quickly, thirdhand smoke lingers for extended periods, posing a chronic exposure risk, especially for vulnerable populations like children. The past trends in tobacco use, coupled with increased awareness of the dangers of secondhand smoke, have led to a decline in smoking rates in many regions. However, the legacy of past smoking habits continues to impact indoor environments through thirdhand smoke contamination.

Understanding the chemical composition of thirdhand smoke is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. Nicotine,a primary component of tobacco smoke,reacts with common indoor air pollutants like ozone and nitrous acid to form harmful carcinogens. These compounds can persist on surfaces for weeks, months, or even years, depending on factors such as ventilation, surface type, and cleaning practices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thirdhand Smoke

What are the symptoms of thirdhand smoke exposure in children?

Symptoms can include respiratory irritation, increased asthma attacks, and potential long-term health effects due to carcinogen exposure.

How can I test my home for thirdhand smoke?

While there are no widely available consumer tests, professional environmental assessments can detect nicotine and other tobacco-specific compounds on surfaces.

Does opening windows eliminate thirdhand smoke?

Opening windows can improve ventilation, but it does not eliminate thirdhand smoke residue that has already settled on surfaces.

Are there specific cleaning products that remove thirdhand smoke?

thorough cleaning with general-purpose cleaners can help reduce residue, but complete removal may require specialized cleaning or replacement of contaminated materials.

How does thirdhand smoke compare to secondhand smoke in terms of health risks?

Both are harmful, but thirdhand smoke poses a chronic exposure risk, while secondhand smoke is more immediate. The long-term effects of thirdhand smoke are still being studied.

Disclaimer: This article provides general facts and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Do you have concerns about thirdhand smoke in your home? What steps have you taken to protect your children from environmental tobacco smoke? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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Health

FDA Approves Merck’s RSV Shot for Babies – A Breakthrough in Infant Health

by Chief editor of world-today-news.com
written by Chief editor of world-today-news.com

FDA Approves New RSV Antibody,Enflonsia,for Infant Protection

Table of Contents

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Merck‘s Enflonsia (clesrovimab) on Monday, a new monoclonal antibody aimed at protecting infants under 12 months from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This approval introduces a third option to combat RSV, a common and perhaps severe respiratory illness in young children. Public health experts anticipate that increased competition may eventually lower the cost of these preventative treatments, easing the financial strain on families and the healthcare system.

Enflonsia vs. Beyfortus: Key Differences

Enflonsia enters the market at a wholesale price of $556 per dose, matching the price of its primary competitor, Beyfortus (nirsevimab), developed by Sanofi and AstraZeneca.While the pricing is identical, the two products differ in dosage and approved use cases.

Did You Know?

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year in the United States. Most children have been infected with RSV by the time they are 2 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

A key advantage of Enflonsia is its single-dose regimen for all infants, nonetheless of weight, potentially simplifying administration in pediatric offices. Beyfortus, on the other hand, requires different dosages based on an infant’s weight. however, Enflonsia is currently approved only for infants in their first RSV season, while beyfortus is approved for all babies in their first RSV season and for high-risk babies in their second season.

Merck’s Strategy and Future Expansion

Paula Annunziato, Merck’s senior vice president for clinical research, highlighted the logistical simplicity of Enflonsia’s single-dose approach. Merck is also conducting a study comparing Enflonsia to Synagis, an older RSV monoclonal antibody approved only for high-risk infants. Positive results could lead to an expansion of Enflonsia’s approval to include high-risk children in their second RSV season.

Impact on RSV Prevention

Clinical trials have demonstrated that Enflonsia reduces medically attended lower respiratory tract infections caused by RSV by over 60% and lowers RSV-related hospitalization rates by over 84%.These figures underscore the potential of Enflonsia to considerably reduce the burden of RSV on infants and the healthcare system.

the introduction of Enflonsia follows the recent availability of other RSV prevention tools, including Pfizer‘s Abrysvo, a vaccine for pregnant individuals that transfers protective antibodies to the fetus. This vaccine is recommended for pregnant individuals between September and January to protect newborns during RSV season.

Timeline for Enflonsia Availability

Merck anticipates beginning to take orders for Enflonsia in July and shipping doses in time for the 2025 RSV season. The availability of multiple preventative options marks a significant advancement in the fight against RSV, offering diverse strategies to protect vulnerable infants.

Product Manufacturer Dosage Approved Use Price (Wholesale)
Enflonsia (clesrovimab) Merck Single dose for all infants Infants in their first RSV season $556
Beyfortus (nirsevimab) Sanofi/AstraZeneca Weight-based All infants in their first RSV season; high-risk infants in their second RSV season $556
Abrysvo Pfizer Vaccine for pregnant individuals Pregnant individuals during RSV season N/A

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) was scheduled to vote on recommending Enflonsia at its next meeting in late June. However, recent events, including the replacement of the entire committee, have raised questions about the meeting’s functionality. The Department of Health and Human Services has stated that the meeting will proceed as planned.

Understanding RSV: An Evergreen Viewpoint

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms.Though, it can lead to severe illness, especially in infants, young children, and older adults. RSV is a major cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children under one year of age in the United States. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Historically, preventive measures were limited, but recent advancements have introduced vaccines and monoclonal antibodies to protect vulnerable populations.

The progress of preventive tools like vaccines and monoclonal antibodies represents a significant advancement in pediatric care. These interventions aim to reduce the incidence of severe RSV infections, hospitalizations, and associated healthcare costs. The introduction of multiple options, such as maternal vaccines and infant-directed monoclonal antibodies, provides healthcare providers with a range of strategies to protect infants from RSV.

Frequently Asked Questions About Enflonsia and RSV Prevention


Disclaimer: This article provides information about a new medical product. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.

What are your thoughts on the new RSV prevention options? Will this impact your family’s healthcare decisions? Share your comments below and subscribe for more health news!

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