2020-2021 Influenza Roundup – Review Our Top 10 Flu Articles

As this program nears its end, we have compiled a list of the 10 top most visited articles that resonated with readers. Take a look back on what we’ve covered, or if you’re new, explore the latest research and findings in this roundup. 

10. Do Certain HTN Meds Cut Deaths From Influenza Pneumonia?

The impact of ACE-Is/ARBs on respiratory tract infection outcomes among all adult patients hospitalized with influenza or pneumonia was examined from 2005 to 2018 in a Danish study. 

9. A Quick Review of COVID-19 vs. Influenza Symptoms

A quick review of COVID-19 and flu symptoms – with an emphasis on shared vs. distinct telltale signs.

8. Is there Evidence of Placental Infection, Vertical Transmission of SARS-CoV-2?

Researchers quantified SARS-CoV-2 viral load in maternal and neonatal biofluids, transplacental passage of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody, and incidence of fetoplacental infection in a cohort study involving 127 pregnant women.

7. Self-reported Influenza and Influenza-like Symptoms in U.S. Adults Age 18-64 

This study compares predicted versus reported influenza and influenza-like illnesses in vaccinated adults as a surrogate measure of novel pathogen surveillance.

6. Increasing Influenza Vaccination Coverage in Healthcare Workers: A Review on Campaign Strategies and Their Effect

This review analyzed strategies to increase influenza vaccination coverage in healthcare workers.

5. Examining Functional Decline After Flu Hospitalization in Seniors 

Researchers investigated persistent functional change in older adults admitted to the hospital with influenza and other ARI using data from 925 older patients (mean age, 79.4 years) identified in the Canadian Immunization Research Network Serious Outcomes Surveillance Network (2011 to 2012 influenza season).

4. Assessing the Importance of Seasonal Influenza Vaccination for People with Disabilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Given the need to reduce the burden of respiratory illness on a healthcare system already overwhelmed by the COVID-19 pandemic, maximizing seasonal influenza vaccination coverage is particularly important in 2020-2021.

3. The Effect of Indigo Naturalis on Acute Lung Injury Induced by Influenza A Virus

The study aimed to investigate the effect of Indigo Naturalis on ALI induced by influenza A virus (IAV) in mice.

And finally, our top two articles cover a universal influenza vaccine on the horizon: 

2. Are Scientists Close to a ‘Universal’ Flu Vaccine?

1. The Other Vaccine