Researchers Pinpoint Most Effective Strategies for Combating Flu

As autumn gives way to winter, the New Year isn't the only thing that's rapidly approaching. It's also just about time for a far less pleasant annual occurrence: flu season.

The virus known as influenza has been hanging around for millennia, morphing and mutating alongside the development and evolution of human civilization. For every technological step forward we have taken in fighting this perennial danger, the virus seems to be one step ahead, shape-shifting into new strains that can evade our best flu-fighting efforts.

Fortunately, researchers around the world have taken up the challenge of fighting the flu. In addition to new vaccines and far-reaching strategies for combating global pandemics, recent studies have also uncovered practical tips that can help all of us avoid -- and recover from -- this powerful bug. This week, we'll take a look at some of the most recent research findings from the front lines of the war against flu.

Hand-Washing, Gloves, and Masks Shown to be Most Effective Means of Preventing Flu Spread

Many people have come to rely on the increasingly popular flu vaccine as a means of avoiding the potentially deadly virus. However, the findings of a recent study published in the prestigious British Medical Journal indicate that physical barriers may be the most effective weapon against the spread of the flu.

The most potent combination of flu prevention methods was a rigorous regimen of hand-washing and the donning of masks, gloves, and gowns. Although this may seem to be a bit extreme for most people, it could be necessary for the families of patients with already-suppressed immune systems. Also, these drastic measures may be necessary in the case of a deadly pandemic, like the one that caused more than 50 million deaths worldwide in 1918-1919.

For a less severe but still effective approach, the researchers suggested a preventive regimen of frequent hand-washing and isolation of patients known to have the flu.

Researchers Study Efficacy of Different Forms of Flu Vaccine

A recent study conducted by scientists at the University of Michigan assessed the effectiveness of several different forms of the flu vaccine. Specifically, the study sought to determine which types of the vaccine were most effective against "drifted" flu, or strains of the virus that have recently genetically mutated.

Because the flu vaccine is based on deactivated flu germs, researchers have expressed concern that a global pandemic could arise if the strain used to create the vaccine supply turned out to be different than the strain of the virus that became the dominant form spread during a flu season.

According to the research findings, the flu vaccine delivered in shot form was up to 75% effective in preventing illness from exposure to a "drifted," or mutated, form of the virus. However, the nasal mist form of the vaccine was found to be effective against "drifted" flu only about 48% of the time.

Although they contended that the nasal mist vaccine is still effective for most people, the relative strength and efficacy of the shot form of the vaccine might be more advantageous in a year in which a "drifted" form of the virus becomes dominant.

Flu Shots Shown to Reduce Health Care Costs and Doctors Visits for Most Children

At a time when the safety of childhood vaccinations are still being debated among some groups, a study conducted by researchers at Wake Forest University indicates that regular inoculation with the flu vaccine may significantly improve children's winter health.

According to the study, which sought to measure and predict the public health impact of childhood flu vaccines, an increase in childhood flu vaccinations could significantly improve the overall health status of American children. For example, if only half of the total population of children age 6 months to 5 years were vaccinated, the researchers estimated that 650,000 doctor's office visits could be eliminated annually. In addition, an estimated 2250 emergency room visits could be avoided.

The study also reiterated the public health benefit of vaccinations for children who come into contact with other infants, children, and elderly people, all of whom are regarded as being at high-risk for suffering complications related to infection with the flu virus.

To develop a flu prevention strategy that's specifically tailored to your family's needs, talk to your primary care physician or pediatrician. Be sure to check back here each week for more of the health science news you need!