PulmonaryInfo Center

Forecasting Flu Like the Weather?
Overcast with a chance of flu? With a flu prediction system that works like weather forecasts, you might hear about an influenza front closing in on your region.
Pertussis Vaccine Fades Over Time
Rates of whooping cough (pertussis) have increased in recent years. One concern has been that the vaccine for pertussis becomes weaker over time. A recent study found this to be the case. During a California outbreak of pertussis, many of the grade school children had received their DTaP vaccine for pertussis.
Pneumonia Vaccine Recommended in Europe
A European agency has issued their recommendation for a change in the use of a pneumonia vaccine. The vaccine will now await approval from the European Commission.
Autism Link to Flu in Pregnancy is Weak
Getting sick while pregnant may make expectant moms feel even more ill at ease. Will the illness affect your child? Can it increase his or her risk of autism? So far, it seems unlikely.
Can Flu Shots Help Hearts?
Getting a jab for the flu might do more than protect you from coming down with it. It might actually lower your risk of a heart attack. Two recent studies have found a possible benefit for your heart from the flu vaccine.
Cough and Cold Antibiotics
When your child has a cough, getting an antibiotic from a doctor may seem like a good idea. But a cough suppressant may be a better choice.
Even for Healthy Kids, Flu Can Be Deadly
So you think your kid is as healthy as a horse, and getting a flu shot is an unnecessary precaution? Think again: Even children with no other health conditions can lose a battle with flu.
West Nile Outbreak is Not Over Yet
We're not out of the mosquito-infested woods yet. Cases of West Nile are still being reported, keeping 2012 on track to be the second-worst year for the illness in America.
Create a "Vaccine Cocoon" for Babies
The cases of whooping cough in the U.S. this year are the highest they have been since 1959. And the best way to protect the ones you love is to get the vaccine.
Why Do College Kids Avoid Flu Shots?
College students were at high risk for infection during the H1N1 “swine flu” outbreak in 2009. So why did so many avoid the free flu shots offered by their campus' health clinics?