Pneumonia

Preventing Influenza and Pneumococcal Infections Reduces Adverse Outcomes

Preventing Influenza and Pneumococcal Infections Reduces Adverse Outcomes – MM1702

One of the strategic objectives of the 2011-2020 Global Vaccine Action Plan is for the benefits of immunisation
to be equitably extended to all people and encompasses special groups at increased risk of vaccine-preventable
diseases, such as preterm infants and pregnant women, as well as those with chronic and immune-compromising
medical conditions or at increased risk of disease due to immunosenescence. Despite demonstrations
of effectiveness and safety, vaccine uptake in these special groups is frequently lower than expected, even
in developed countries with vaccination strategies in place. For example, uptake of the influenza vaccine in
pregnancy rarely exceeds 50% in developed countries and, although data are scarce, it appears that only half
of preterm infants are up-to-date with routine paediatric vaccinations.

Modern Medicine – February 2017

February 17, 2017 by 'flu Influenza Pneumonia

Identifying Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Early is Key

Identifying Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Early is Key – MM1611

When critically ill patients experience a life-threatening illness, they are also vulnerable to contracting ventilator-associated pneumonia, which increases morbidity and likely mortality as well as the cost of health care. Ventilator associated pneumonia is very difficult to diagnosis as there are no ‘golden rules’ for doctor’s to use as a diagnostic tool. Mortality is reduced with early diagnosis and treatment of VAP. Drug resistant VAP is becoming more prevalent.

Modern Medicine – November 2016

December 8, 2016 by Pneumonia Pulmonology

Pneumonia: Who is at Risk?

Pneumonia: Who is at Risk? – MM1610

Risk factors for pneumonia include age, smoking and presence of chronic diseases, such as lung disease, heart disease and diabetes. Preventive measures include influenza and pneumococcal vaccination and smoking cessation. GPs are at the front line of management of patients with pneumonia, starting empirical outpatient antibiotic therapy and referring those who are very ill or at risk of deterioration to hospital. A chest x-ray is important for diagnosis of pneumonia. Most patients respond to empirical antibiotic therapy with amoxycillin, doxycycline or an appropriate macrolide antibiotic. Patients with nonresolving pneumonia require reassessment to confirm the diagnosis, identify the pathogen and look for complications or underlying disease such as malignancy.

Modern Medicine – October 2016

October 31, 2016 by Pneumonia Pulmonology
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