Antigenically different subtype in new flu vaccine

Article Abstract:

The FDA has decided to include a newly discovered influenza virus subtype in next year's vaccine. The variant is called A/Wuhan/359/95 because it was isolated in Wuhan, China. China is a frequent source of new variants, which is why the CDC has set up 8 surveillance sites in China. The World Health Organization operates three major laboratories in Canberra, Australia, London, England and Atlanta, Georgia. Because new variants appear from time to time, the FDA and CDC must change the vaccine periodically to ensure that it covers current strains. This is only necessary if emerging strains are antigenically different from existing ones. The task was more challenging in 1995 when the US government shut down in November and December. The shutdown of the CDC meant that viral isolates from the US and abroad could not be analyzed. Vaccine manufacturers are gearing up to provide 80 million doses of vaccine in 1996, up from 20 million in 1980.

Product development, Influenza vaccines, Genetic aspects, Influenza viruses

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Future physicians care about patients - and changing economic patterns of care

Article Abstract:

Membership in the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) can prepare future doctors to help shape future medical policy. AMSA was created in 1950 and was affiliated with the American Medical Association but split from the AMA in 1967. During its 48th convention in 1998, AMSA members held a rally near the Capitol and lobbied Congress in support of universal access to health care. On behalf of its 25,000 members, AMSA also filed documents with the US Supreme Court in support of physician-assisted suicide in 1996. The association also wants to create more relevant medical school curricula.

Political activity, Medical students, Social policy, American Medical Student Association

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Volunteers in typhoid infection study will aid future vaccine development

Article Abstract:

A few medical ethicists have criticized a study that will expose a group of volunteers to the bacterium that causes typhoid fever. The researchers hope to gain enough information to help in vaccine development. Typhoid fever has re-emerged as a serious health threat in developing countries and the bacterium responsible, Salmonella typhi, has become resistant to many commonly used antibiotics. Three vaccines are available, but most are not entirely effective and must be taken in three doses. The only effective antibiotics are too costly for most developing countries.

Research, Typhoid fever, Typhoid vaccine, Typhoid vaccines

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