Infectious diseases news and infectious diseases widget

(Virginia Commonwealth University) Three Virginia commonwealth university epidemiologists are downplaying the value of mandatory universal nasal screening of patients for MRSA, arguing that proven, hospital-wide infection control practices can prevent more of the potentially fatal infections.

(Institute of Development Studies) As the first globally co-ordinated plan for the planet's gravest health threats is hatched by government ministers from around the world this weekend, a new report sets out a 10-point plan for this new, globalized approach to infectious diseases such as avian flu. A new report by professor Ian Scoones and Paul Forster of the ESRC STEPS Center at the UK's Institute of Development Studies lays out 10 key recommendations for 'One World, One health.'

Leading researchers in academia and industry reveal powerful effects of recombinant lactoferrin (tradename: Lacromin) in mammalian cell culture leading to a significant boost in productivity. (PRWeb Oct 23, 2008) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/10/prweb1511344.htm

Background Antibiotics are recommended for severe acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) admitted to intensive care units (ICU). Serum procalcitonin (PCT) could be a useful tool for selecting patients with a lower probability of developing bacterial infection, but its measurement has not been investigated in this population. Methods We conducted a single center prospective cohort study in consecutive COPD patients admitted to the ICU for AECOPD between September 2005 and September 2006. Sputum samples or tracheal aspirates were tested for the presence of bacteria and viruses. PCT levels were measured at the time of admittance, six hours, and 24 hours using a sensitive immunoassay. Results Thirty nine AECOPD patients were included, 31 of which (79%) required a ventilator support at admission. The median [25%-75% interquartile range] PCT level, assessed in 35/39 patients, was: 0.096 mg/L [IQR, 0.065 to 0.178] at the time of admission, 0.113 mg/L [IQR, 0.07

Most Lyme disease patients are not fully informed of their treatment options. Neither the Center for Disease Control (CDC) nor the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) disclose the existence of the ILADS-authored treatment guidelines. ILADS guidelines offer treatment options for patients whose Lyme disease symptoms persist after the short dose of antibiotics recommended by most doctors. ILADS believes full disclosure is good for patients and helps them avoid development of chronic Lyme disease. Chronic Lyme disease often results in debilitating symptoms such as chronic fatigue, migraine headaches and neurological difficulties. (PRWeb Oct 23, 2008) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/10/prweb1514874.htm

Athletic Body Care is a new skin care line -- the only non-alcohol based virus-killing-while-moisturizing skin products designed specifically for athletes. The arrival to market is timely -- amidst reports of Cleveland Browns tight-end Kellen Winslow being hospitalized with the deadly MRSA staph infection, and NBA-bound college basketball star Kenny George losing his foot and career to it. (PRWeb Oct 23, 2008) Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/10/prweb1515144.htm

(University of California - Los Angeles) UCLA scientists engineered a new tuberculosis vaccine specifically designed for HIV-positive people that was shown to be safer and more potent than the current TB vaccine in pre-clinical trials.

(NIH/National Institutes of health, Office of Disease Prevention) Management of hepatitis B is a challenge for physicians and patients due to an incomplete understanding of the disease course, complex treatment indications, and the lack of large studies focusing on important health outcomes. Following two days of expert presentation, a rigorous evidence review, and audience commentary, the independent, impartial panel's draft statement is now available.

(University of California - San Francisco) Study results showed that individuals who had regular unprotected receptive anal intercourse with partners with significant levels of HIV in their blood showed a stronger anti-HIV immune response. In addition, the magnitude of anti-HIV specific immune response correlated with their exposure to HIV through sex.

Investigators think they've identified almost everyone who may have contracted hepatitis C virus at two Las Vegas outpatient medical clinics, a top public health official said Thursday.