Immune and infectious diseases Archive

The FDA approved Moderna's mFLUSIVA, the first mRNA flu vaccine, for adults ages 50 and older. Trials showed it outperformed traditional flu shots in preventing infection, though with a higher rate of side effects. It’s expected to be available in time for flu season.

Several factors increase the risk for complications from COVID-19 or influenza and should prompt someone to request an antiviral medication as soon as possible, even if they have been vaccinated or have had the infections before. The risk factors are age (being 65 or older), an impaired immune system, and underlying conditions (especially heart or lung disease). Pregnant women also are at increased risk for severe influenza and COVID, and should consider taking an antiviral.

In most cases, bee, wasp, or hornet stings can be treated with simple remedies. For example, placing a cold pack on the sting site helps reduce swelling. Applying over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream helps relieve swelling and itching, too. Taking an antihistamine—such as fexofenadine (Allegra) or loratadine (Claritin)—also eases itching. If symptoms persist for a few days, it’s time to call a doctor. If a severe allergic response develops—indicated by difficulty breathing or hives—it’s crucial to call 911 for help and get an injection of epinephrine as soon as possible.

Explore what doctors know about Bell’s palsy triggers, from stress to viral infections and diabetes, and why pinpointing a cause is tricky

Ringworm is a common, contagious skin infection caused by a fungus. Children can get it from other people who have it or from an infected animal. While it can be itchy and unpleasant, ringworm is usually harmless.

Most people with early-stage Lyme disease symptoms develop a rash, but it often lacks bull’s-eye features—which many people have been told to look for. Other signs of Lyme disease include headache, neck pain, joint aches, and fatigue.

It’s possible for people of any age to contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs are sometimes symptom-free, making them easy to miss, pass along, and ignore.

Cold baths and ice packs may feel instinctive when a fever hits, but most cases call for a different approach.

An elevated lymphocyte count usually indicates a simple viral illness. Less often, it could indicate a blood cancer. How the number is calculated shapes what it may mean.

Warm, damp shoes can harbor fungus well after a skin infection clears. Fresh socks, antifungal powder, rotation, and retiring old shoes are all important.