Winter Ailments

‘Partners in Crime’: Viral and Bacterial Co-infections

Viral and bacterial respiratory tract infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Frequently, viruses and bacteria can co-infect the same host, resulting in heightened pathology and severity of illness compared to single infections. Physical damage to respiratory cells as a result of viral infection may lead to opportunistic adherence of bacteria. Enhanced bacterial adherence by specific mechanisms has been documented for respiratory cells infected with influenza A virus, respiratory syncytial virus and adenovirus in both in vitro and in vivo models.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2021

August 11, 2021 by Peter Winter Ailments

Keep One Step Ahead of 2021’s Flu with Quadrivalent Vaccine

Each year, severe illness caused by influenza (flu) affects between 3 and 5 million people worldwide, with up to 650 000 deaths – over 11 000 of these in South Africa. Almost 50% of the 47 000 South Africans afflicted by severe flu every year require hospitalisation. Preventing severe flu will decrease the burden on the healthcare system.3a Vaccination against the flu is therefore strongly recommended by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, as co-circulation with SARS-CoV-2 is very likely.

Modern Medicine – Issue 4 2021

August 11, 2021 by Peter Winter Ailments

Ivy Leaf Extract Effective for Treating Airway Diseases

Ivy Leaf Extract Effective for Treating Airway Diseases – MM1605

Preparations from ivy leaves (Hederae helicis folium, Hedera helix) dry extracts are well established in the treatment of different respiratory diseases. Their efficacy and safety have been demonstrated in a variety of controlled clinical and non-interventional studies. The effect of ivy leaves dry extract is based on its secretolytical and broncholytical properties. The main active compounds are saponins and especially α-hederin represents the most important saponin molecule responsible for the therapeutic effect.

It has been shown that α-hederin prevents β2-adrenergic receptors from internalisation and enables a higher number of receptors to be activated by the endogenous ligand adrenaline.6 As a consequence, a higher grade of bronchodilation and surfactant production is achieved, leading to the bronchospasmolytic, secretolytic, expectorant and, in turn, antitussive effect of ivy leaves extract preparations.

Modern Medicine – May 2016

May 31, 2016 by Peter Cough Winter Ailments

The Season for Flu Vaccines is Here Again

The Season for Flu Vaccines is Here Again – MM1504

Influenza viruses typically circulate widely from autumn through early spring. Although most persons who become infected will recover without sequelae, influenza can cause serious illness and death, particularly among persons aged ≥65 years and <2 years and those with medical conditions that confer high risk for complications from influenza.

Modern Medicine – April 2015

April 28, 2015 by Peter 'flu Vaccines Winter Ailments

Influenza Time to Vaccinate But Who and Why?

Influenza Time to Vaccinate But Who and Why? – MM1503

Influenza vaccination should be recommended not only to all patients who qualify for the government-funded vaccine but also to those shown to be at increased risk of complications in the 2009-10 influenza pandemic, including the clinically obese and tobacco smokers.

Modern Medicine – March 2015

March 31, 2015 by Peter 'flu Influenza Winter Ailments

Treatment Decisions in Adult Rhinosinusitis

Treatment Decisions in Adult Rhinosinusitis – MM1308

Adult rhinosinusitis is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions and patients will often present to their GP for treatment. A thorough patient history is important for the diagnosis of acute and chronic rhinosinusitis and for guiding appropriate medical therapy.

Modern Medicine – August 2013

August 13, 2013 by Peter ENT Winter Ailments

Winter Ailments

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