11/30/24 S11 E 0300 - DR. ANDREW HANDEL: COLD AND FLU SEASON

11/30/24 S11 E 0300 - DR. ANDREW HANDEL: COLD AND FLU SEASON

The holiday season often brings more than just festive cheer – it also ushers in a rise in respiratory illnesses. In this episode of American Medicine Today, Dr. Andrew Handel, a paediatric infectious disease expert from Stony Brook Children's Hospital, shares his insights on the surge in cases of whooping cough, influenza, and RSV. Dr. Handel explains how these illnesses are making a comeback post-pandemic, largely due to decreased vaccination rates during lockdowns.

You'll learn about whooping cough, a bacterial infection that's not as outdated as you might think. It's particularly concerning for infants, who face severe respiratory issues if infected. Vaccination is crucial, yet breakthrough cases still occur, making awareness vital. Dr. Handel also discusses the current influenza situation. Although the numbers aren't skyrocketing yet, there's an anticipated increase as winter progresses.

He sheds light on how epidemiologists track these trends and the importance of flu vaccines, even though predicting the right strain can be a bit like forecasting the weather. A fascinating development in flu prevention is FluMist – an intranasal vaccine soon to be available for home delivery. This could be a game-changer for those who find clinic visits cumbersome. As RSV becomes more prevalent, Dr.

Handel introduces a new monoclonal antibody treatment that's showing promise in reducing infection rates among infants. For those keen to avoid seasonal bugs, Dr. Handel offers practical tips: stay home if you're unwell, keep up with vaccinations, practice good hygiene, and consider multivitamins as part of your health routine. If you're curious about how to navigate the cold and flu season with more confidence, this episode offers a wealth of advice. Are you prepared for the winter sniffles?