Records: Anthrax suspect behaved strangely Jan 6, 2009
Sam Yu / Frederick News Post via AP fileBruce E. Ivins, a biodefense researcher who worked on an anthrax vaccine, is seen in 2003, at Fort Detrick, Md. He committed suicide in July. (MSNBC -- Terrorism)
Everyday life for Palestinian children disrupted by Gaza crisis Jan 6, 2009
UNICEF provides vaccines and micronutrients for children in Gaza, and works to improve the quality of education and deliver psychosocial support to children and their caregivers. UNICEF and its partners also provide child-friendly spaces throughout the territory. (AlertNet)
First SD flu death reported Jan 6, 2009
There's still time to get a flu shot, Kightlinger said, adding that there are no shortages of vaccine. "We still haven't been hit bad with it yet," Kightlinger said. (Sioux City Journal, IO)
Scientists Developing Breast Cancer 'Vaccine' Jan 6, 2009
Arkansas Scientists Developing Breast Cancer 'Vaccine ... Scientists at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences hope to begin clinical trials this spring on a vaccine to prevent the recurrence of breast cancer ... If successful, the vaccine would not replace traditional treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation but could be an additional treatment for patients, said Laura Hutchins, the principal investigator, professor of internal medicine, and director of the division of hematology... (FOXNews)
Flu bug officially arrives in Missoula County Jan 6, 2009
Unlike some other years, there's plenty of flu vaccine this year, and vaccination remains the best way to stay flu-free. Vaccination is especially recommended for children aged 6 months to 18 years, people over age 50, health care works and residents of chronic-care facilities. (The Missoulian)
African Thicket Rat Malaria Linked To Virulent Human Form Jan 6, 2009
20, 2005) In an innovative project with implications for malaria vaccine development, scientists have used genomics, proteomics and gene expression studies to trace how malaria parasites evolve on a molecular. . (Science Daily)
Microbes In The Intestine: Friend Or Foe? Jan 6, 2009
The knowledge can now be used to develop vaccines ... (May 12, 2008) Researchers have discovered an anti-virulence factor in Salmonella, knowledge that could be used to design improved Salmonella vaccines. (Science Daily)
First flu case in La Crosse recorded Jan 6, 2009
It s not too late to get a flu shot, and there s plenty of the vaccine, Stokes said. At least what we re seeing so far, the vaccine is effective against those strains this season, she said. (La Crosse Tribune, WI)
* World Business Quick Take Jan 6, 2009
Pfizer Inc, the worlds largest drugmaker, exercised an option to buy commercial licenses on vaccines developed by Switzerlands Cytos Biotechnology AG. The options were based on an agreement the companies signed in August that gave Pfizer access to experimental vaccines using immune-response technology, Schlieren, Switzerland-based Cytos said yesterday in an e-mailed statement. Cytos did not disclose the size of the payments or say which diseases the vaccines target. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
Company seeks approval for nasal spray flu vaccine Jan 6, 2009
LONDON Drugmaker AstraZeneca submitted a new drug application with European Union authorities to market a nasal spray vaccine against the flu, the company said Tuesday ... "Influenza creates a heavy medical and economic burden on Europe and throughout the world, and we are hopeful that the future availability and product characteristics of this novel nasal spray influenza vaccine will contribute to an increase in vaccination rates and reduce the spread of influenza around the world," said Dr.... (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
Novartis acquires license to CMV vaccine candidate Jan 6, 2009
BASEL, Switzerland Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis AG said Monday it has licensed a potential vaccine for a type of herpes virus from U.S.-based company AlphaVax Inc.. Novartis said it is paying $20 million upfront to the North Carolina company to secure the right to a developmental vaccine for the cytomegalovirus, or CMV. ... The vaccine is expected to enter phase II clinical trials next year, Novartis said. (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
How Obama can partner with philanthropy Jan 6, 2009
To deliver health services to the hard-to-reach, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has spawned a range of providers, from those that develop vaccines and drugs to those that distribute them on the ground. Among the Gates Foundation's creations is the Global Alliance for Vaccines Initiative, which conceived of floating immunization bonds to leverage pledges of future government aid in order to unleash private dollars now. (San Francisco Chronicle -- Opinion)
Red Cross: Humanitarian Crisis In Gaza Jan 6, 2009
Israel has given the Red Cross permission to bring medical supplies including blood and vaccines into the sealed-off territory, and a team of war surgeons was allowed in Monday to assist doctors treating the wounded at Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital. But Kraehenbuehl said medical access is worsening as the campaign continues. (CBS News -- 60 minutes II)
Plausible inventions lie alongside the facts Jan 6, 2009
Human vaccines against diseases including hepatitis B, respiratory syncytial virus. and Norwalk virus have been genetically engineered into crops as diverse as lettuce, potato and corn, and shown. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Virus' Devastation Compels Mother To Action Jan 6, 2009
E-Mail News Alerts Get breaking news and daily headlines. POSTED: 9:07 am CST January 5, 2009UPDATED: 9:21 am CST January 5, 2009. (7 KETV Omaha)
Sars patients can provide therapy Jan 6, 2009
Scientists are currently working on a vaccine, but there is still no good treatment for the disease, which is caused by a virus related to those that cause flu ... Dr Lanzavecchia said: "At present there is no immunological treatment for Sars, and a vaccine may take several years to produce. "Our approach produces protective antibodies that would provide immediate protection against the Sars virus. (Yahoo News -- SARS)
UPS signs distribution deal with Merck Jan 6, 2009
Under the arrangement, UPS s Supply Chain Solutions unit will take control of two Merck distribution centers for drugs and vaccines ... UPS will provide storage, warehousing, order fulfillment services and shipping of pharmaceuticals and vaccines, UPS said. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Business)
Children could be given routine chickenpox jabs Jan 6, 2009
If the plan gets the go ahead from the committee, the chickenpox vaccine is likely to be added to the MMR triple vaccine making it a four-in-one jab ... The JCVI advises the four Health Departments with independent expert advice on all vaccine issues ... JCVI have been examining the evidence on chickenpox and shingles vaccines since December 2007 and a recommendation is to be made later this year. (Belfast Telegraph)
YM BIOSCIENCES' NIMOTUZUMAB SELECTED FOR MULTINATIONAL PHASE III TRIAL BY NATIONAL CANCER CENTRE OF SINGAPORE Jan 5, 2009
However, what is likely to set nimotuzumab apart is its low toxicity and favourable safety profile," said Dr. Rikrik Ilyas, Director of IGK. "Patients are spared the discomfort of severe skin rashes and may benefit from an enhanced quality of life. Both patients and physicians may also benefit from lack of hypomagnesemia often related to treatment with other anti-EGFR targeted drugs. (Canada Newswire)
Bird Flu Virus in Poultry Resurface... Jan 5, 2009
In 2003 scientists developed an improved flu vaccine for poultry however they are now concerned that the vaccines could mask disease signs while the birds continue to shed viruses ... They began looking for the source of the infection and testing the effectiveness of the vaccine used since 2003, inoculating chickens, geese and ducks against the virus ... It is believed that the H5N1 virus may have mutated to break through the vaccine as often happens, including those used for humans. (Suite101.com)
Breast Cancer Vaccine Clinical Trials Jan 5, 2009
UAMS scientists expect to start clinical trials this spring on a new vaccine they hope will prevent the recurrence of breast cancer ... To read more about how the vaccine works, click here. (MSNBC)
Health briefs for Jan. 4 Jan 5, 2009
" People with celiac disease/gluten intolerance cannot eat wheat, barley or rye and must maintain a gluten-free diet. Call (858) 278-1413, or visit . There will be attendee-provided gluten-free snacks.Parkinson's group to meet in VistaVISTA ---- The North County Parkinson's Support Group meets at 10 a.m. Jan. 14 at the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, 1400 Vale Terrace Drive. Topic is issues facing those living with Parkinson's disease. Call (760) 940-2763.Educational workshop for long distance... (North County Times)
Rabies vaccine drop Jan 5, 2009
These are rabies vaccines for coyotes and brown foxes being dropped by specially equipped airplanes. To help prevent the spread of rabies to domesticated animals and people, the Texas Department of State Health Services will be doing its annual airdop of rabies vaccine for coyotes and gray foxes Jan. 12 ... Encased in each of the baits is an oral rabies vaccine. (Odessa American, TX)
Rescue societys spay van to visit PetSmart Jan 5, 2009
Costs will be $75 per cat for spay/neuter and vaccine services. Micro-chipping services will also be provided. (Danvers Herald, MA)
Salk researchers develop novel glioblastoma mouse model Jan 5, 2009
Jonas Salk, M.D., whose polio vaccine all but eradicated the crippling disease poliomyelitis in 1955, opened the Institute in 1965 with a gift of land from the City of San Diego and the financial support of the March of Dimes. . (EurekAlert!)
Feed the Immune System for the Cold and Flu Season Jan 4, 2009
This is why the Center for Disease Control makes yearly changes to the flu vaccine, hoping to predict which bugs will arrive in the U.S. on a seasonal basis. A flu vaccine may help during cold and flu season, but there's no guarantee for full protection. (Pekin Times, IL)
Portrait emerges of anthrax suspect's troubled life Jan 4, 2009
Ivins, who had helped develop an anthrax vaccine to protect American troops, had spent his career waiting for a biological attack. Suddenly, at 55, he was advising the FBI and regaling friends with scary descriptions of the deadly powder, his expertise in demand. (International Herald Tribune)
2008 in the rear-view mirror: From buttocks to bankruptcy, it hasn’t been dull in Big Sky Country Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008 Jan 4, 2009
A state influenza outbreak includes strains not covered by this year s vaccine. Sufferers are asked to bring their receipts to any state health office for a full refund and a special Herbie the Germ coloring book. (Missoulian, MT)
Sympathy for the devils: cubs are hope for species Jan 4, 2009
"Cedric's trial has potentially cancelled out [the possibility of] immunisation by vaccine and immunisation by natural resistance. The prognosis for the wild population is pretty bleak and that really puts the emphasis back on the wild population.". The park's 45 devils have been rasied to maintain their wild traits so they are ready, if necessary, to be released back into the wilderness. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Unions must share the burden Jan 4, 2009
It includes cuts in free vaccines for poor children and programs providing part-time care for Alzheimer s patients, for example. But the governor s plans to forgo an annual raise negotiated with state employees and to suspend two education initiatives likely will spark more legislative fireworks in coming weeks than those proposed cuts in health and human services programs serving the poor. (Longview Daily News, WA)
Plan for new jab to eradicate chickenpox Jan 4, 2009
" The full article contains 272 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper. Page 1 of 1 Last Updated: 03 January 2009 7:57 PM Source: Scotland On Sunday Location: Scotland Bookmark: Comment on this Story In order to post comments you must or Delivery formats: Sections Blogs Other Sections Topics Other Sites More Health Features Featured Advertising control for popup window All rights reserved ?2009 Johnston Press Digital Publishing Sister Newspapers: This website and its associated... (Scotsman)
Put diet on hold to avoid the flu, says study Jan 3, 2009
Even those who have received the flu vaccine should steer clear of dieting until the warmer months arrive. "If the strain of flu a person is infected with is different from the strain included in the flu vaccination, then your body sees this as a primary infection and must produce the antibodies to fight it off," Professor Gardner said. (BBC News)
Infection cuts mosquitoes' lives short Jan 3, 2009
There is no vaccine or cure for dengue fever, which is a painful and debilitating disease also known as breakbone fever. When it takes on a hemorrhagic form it can kill, and dengue kills 22,000 people a year. (Scientific American)
You're Never too Old for a Flu Shot Jan 3, 2009
And, even if the vaccine isn't always a perfect match for the strains circulating in any given year, a recent New England Journal of Medicine study that included 10 flu seasons' worth of data also found that an annual vaccine decreases by one-third the risk of hospitalization due to flu complications ... The best time to get the vaccine is in the early fall, according to Dr. Robert Schwartz, chairman of family medicine and community health at the Miller School of Medicine at the University of... (MEDLINEplus)
Structure Of New Botulism Nerve Toxin Subtype Revealed Jan 3, 2009
The detailed structure, published online December 22, 2008, by the Journal of Molecular Biology, reveals a unique arrangement of the active components that may help explain why botulinum neruotoxin subtype E (one of seven distinct subtypes) is faster-acting than other subtypes previously studied at Brookhaven Lab and may have implications for improving vaccines and/or therapeutic agents ... Although experimental vaccines administered prior to exposure can inhibit the neurotoxin s destructive... (Science Daily)
‘Flu fatigue' sets in among scientists after global spread of virus slows Jan 3, 2009
Efforts to eradicate infected poultry have improved, and countries that use poultry vaccine may be lowering the number of times people come in contact with the viruses as a result. Dr. Uyeki suggests other possibilities. (Globe and Mail -- National)
Bill Gates' millions to battle TB Jan 3, 2009
The money will go to the Aeras Global TB Vaccine Foundation to fund current clinical trials and research new ideas ... The money should more than double the amount spent annually on TB vaccine research worldwide, said Dr Klausner, who is the executive director of the global health program at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, as it is more properly known ... "We are in the midst of a new TB epidemic. The world desperately needs an effect vaccine to prevent TB, particularly in adolescents and... (Yahoo News -- Tuberculosis)
Letters to the editor (Dec. 26) Jan 3, 2009
dmonk wrote on Dec 26, 2008 12:13 PM:" Christa, genetic causes for disease is still largely unknown and our environment plays a tremendous role in how our bodies(and minds) react and change over time to what it is introduced to. I agree with Chris on matters of big pharma creating drugs and then playing into the fears of the public and thereby creating a need for the said drug. This begins when we are born with vaccines. Toxic chemicals introduced into a developing organism is a recipe for... (Corvallis Gazette Times, OR)
Animal parvo presence felt Jan 3, 2009
"Let's face it, parvo is the most commonly diagnosed infectious disease in dogs in the United States, so, unfortunately, it's pretty common." Puppies that receive a course of inoculations at animal hospitals for distemper, canine influenza and others, also get the vaccine for parvovirus ... "A bunch do because you can buy the vaccine for real cheap at the feed store or the pet store," she said ... Part of it is the quality of the animal vaccines. (Pocatello Idaho State Journal, ID)
Link To Severe Staph Infections Found Jan 2, 2009
This work has identified using animal models that the PVL leukotoxin can be used as a vaccine against infections caused by CA MRSA. Results from the research will be published in the December issue of Clinical Microbiology and Infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the antibiotic-resistant USA300 CA MRSA strain is typically acquired by persons through contact with the bacteria. (Science Daily)
Type 1 Diabetes: Pancreatic Cell Transplants Engineered To Evade Immune Response Jan 2, 2009
Irun Cohen of the Weizmann Institute of Science Immunology Department has revealed the molecular mechanism of a vaccine for Type 1 diabetes. The new findings should. (Science Daily)
Structure Of Virulent Pathogen Revealed Jan 2, 2009
Their findings could in the future lead to new vaccines. (Aug. (Science Daily)
Novartis acquires license to CMV vaccine candidate Jan 2, 2009
BASEL, Switzerland Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis AG said Monday it has licensed a potential vaccine for a type of herpes virus from U.S.-based company AlphaVax Inc.. Novartis said it is paying $20 million upfront to the North Carolina company to secure the right to a developmental vaccine for the cytomegalovirus, or CMV. ... The vaccine is expected to enter phase II clinical trials next year, Novartis said. (Yahoo News -- Pharmaceutical Industry News)
Genetic engineering now a home hobby Jan 2, 2009
Co-founder Mackenzie Cowell, a 24-year-old who majored in biology in college, said amateurs will probably pursue serious work such as new vaccines and super-efficient biofuels, but they might also try, for example, to use squid genes to create tattoos that glow. Cowell said such unfettered creativity could produce important discoveries. (Missoulian, MT)
Blood, bone marrow drive set for Sunday Jan 2, 2009
" Call (760) 940-2763.Caregivers group to begin meeting Jan. 7ESCONDIDO ---- The Elizabeth Hospice offers a free, ongoing support group for caregivers from 5:30-7 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month, starting Jan. 7, at the Center for Compassionate Care, 930 Canterbury Place. Finding time for positive, nurturing conversations with others in similar circumstances can help caregivers cope with their emotions. Call (760) 737-2050 and visit to learn about other hospice care programs.Parkinson's... (North County Times)
Keep the promise Jan 2, 2009
Better vaccine coverage has averted 3 ... The international finance facility uses government pledges for the future to raise money on capital markets for immediate use, helping to mobilize nearly $1 billion for vaccines. (International Herald Tribune -- Ed/Op)
Killer Oz flu blamed for UK outbreak Jan 2, 2009
Britain's current flu vaccine offers protection against two strains that originated from Brisbane in 2007 as well as a third stemming from Florida in 2006. The urged anyone aged 65 and over and other "at risk groups" to receive a free flu jab as the virus continued to circulate. (The Age)
Breakthrough in dengue fever Jan 2, 2009
There is no known cure or vaccine for dengue fever, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and kills more than 20,000 people each year. Also known as "breakbone fever," symptoms include high temperatures and muscle aches. (India Times, India)
Not All Vets Treat Pets -- For Some It's About Homeland Security Jan 1, 2009
From studying the basic mechanisms of exotic fevers, to the development of vaccines, disease control, risk management and rapid detection of biologic and chemical agents, Army veterinary pathologists are crucial members of the effort to protect our soldiers. Lt Col Dana Scott, director of the division of pathology at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research and a diplomat in the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP), has studied Ebola virus in the famed "Hot Zone" and served for... (Pekin Times, IL)
New flu strain not yet found in Greenville Jan 1, 2009
The MSDH encourages Mississippians to get the flu shot if they have not already done so, as the flu vaccine takes one to two weeks to produce immunity ... Overall, the flu shot isn't perfect, but those who do get the flu do better because they've had the vaccine. (Greenville Delta Democrat Times, MS)
Genes That Made 1918 Flu Lethal Isolated Jan 1, 2009
The complex could also become a target for a new class of antiviral drugs, which is urgently needed as vaccines are unlikely to be produced fast enough at the outset of a pandemic to blunt its spread. To find the gene or genes that enabled the virus to invade the lungs, Kawaoka and his group blended genetic elements from the 1918 flu virus with those of a currently circulating avian influenza virus and tested the variants on ferrets, an animal that mimics human flu infection. (Science Daily)
* Taiwan News Quick Take Jan 1, 2009
The National Science Council (NSC) yesterday claimed preliminary success in developing a three-in-one vaccine for chickens, which will help the birds ward off Newcastle Disease, Infectious Bursal Disease and fowl pox. Project leader and veterinary medicine professor at the National Chung-hsing University Lee Long-huw (s) said if his team succeeded, the vaccine would be the first three-in-one for chickens in the world. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
UGA, UF, Ala., or FSU? Recruit to pick Sunday Jan 1, 2009
Perhaps he can invent a vaccine for redneckidous. By Jen. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Hopes and dreams for 2009 Jan 1, 2009
It would be great if doctors developed a vaccine for it. Those are my hopes and dreams for 2009. (Littleton Independent, MA)
Flu yet to make mark in Western Wisconsin Jan 1, 2009
"Plus, it appears that the vaccine that's available this year is a very good match for the type of flu that is circulating.". If history is any help, the worst of the influenza is yet to come. (Chetek Alert, WI)
Rabies bait drop scheduled to begin Wednesday Jan 1, 2009
The annual airdrop of vaccine baits by the Texas Department of State Health Services will begin Wednesday, according to a release from DSHS issued Monday ... Two millilitres of oral rabies vaccine are in each bait ... "The vaccine cannot cause rabies in people or animals," Oertli said. (Fort Stockton Pioneer, TX)
High take up for anti-cancer jab in Norfolk Jan 1, 2009
Girls aged 12 to 13 or 17 to 18 in full-time education that have so far missed the opportunity to be vaccinated can ask their GP for advice and will either be given the vaccine within the GP surgery or be referred onto one of the Connexions clinics ... This high level of uptake is also a credit to the work of the Norfolk Community Health Care (NCHC) immunisation team who have been working so hard over the past few months to deliver this vaccine to as many girls as possible within schools and... (Norwich Evening News)
Virus Runs Rampant Sending West Texas Infants to the Hospital Jan 1, 2009
Doctors aren't sure exactly how the virus starts, but once it gets going, it runs rampant and there's no good vaccine. "Most of it is spread through the daycare centers and the schools, and one kid brings it home and the other kids get it if they're still at home," Dr. Bray said. (NewsWest9.com)
Imugene and Merial Establish Strategic Alliance Dec 31, 2008
Merial to develop vaccine candidates from Imugene's portfolio through to commercial sales ... Additional vaccine candidates will be evaluated for proof of concept and, if successful, will also progress into the product development process ... This vaccine candidate will now be progressed with other FAV (Fowl Adeno Virus) and PAV (Porcine Adeno Virus) vectored vaccine candidates already researched by Imugene and additional vaccine candidates to be disclosed by Merial. (PR Newswire)
Winter's ills: What to expect Dec 31, 2008
This years vaccine appears to be a better match than last years to the strains of flu circulating around the country, says Dr. Neil Fishman, an infectious disease specialist and an associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania Health System ... The flu vaccine is recommended for. (MSNBC -- Health)
Pediatrician slams vaccine book Dec 31, 2008
A report published Monday in the journal Pediatrics charges the author of a popular book for parents on childhood vaccines with stoking fears about vaccine safety and misrepresenting the science behind the nation's immunization policy. "The Vaccine Book: Making the Right Decision for Your Child" was published last year by Dr. Robert Sears, son of the well-known Capistrano Beach pediatrician and author William Sears ... In a scathing critique not often seen in a pediatric journal, vaccine expert... (Los Angeles Times)
Health Buzz: A High Blood Pressure Gene and Other Health News Dec 31, 2008
Wednesday, December 31, 2008. Posted December 30, 2008. (U.S. News & World Report)
Anti-fungal Drug Offers Great Benefits To Some With Severe Asthma, Study Suggests Dec 31, 2008
5, 2005) A group of scientists in Italy have developed a vaccine with the potential to protect against fungal pathogens that commonly infect humans, according to a study by Torosantucci and colleagues in the. . (Science Daily)
Viruses, Start Your Engines! Dec 31, 2008
(July 23, 2008) Researchers have developed a novel four-component vaccine that protects monkeys against all four strains of dengue virus and may potentially offer protection to the millions of humans at risk ... 28, 2008) Manipulating a previously identified protein may be the key to developing an effective H5N1 influenza A virus vaccine. (Science Daily)
Professor Helps Control Infectious Diseases With Models And Math Dec 31, 2008
"It all lasted until the parasite developed resistance to drugs and mosquitoes to insecticides, which reversed most of earlier progress. Today we see a dramatic upsurge of the disease in many places worldwide. While the fight against malaria proceeds on multiple fronts (new drugs, diagnostics, and vaccines), an important question remains- 'how can one do interventions in a way to either slow or prevent drug resistance?'". The goal of his modeling is to allow predictions to be made on both the... (Science Daily)
