Latest news with #Streptococcuspneumoniae
USA Today
25-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Yes, pneumonia can be contagious. But here's why it depends on the form.
Yes, pneumonia can be contagious. But here's why it depends on the form. Show Caption Hide Caption Medications can add to heat related illnesses Extreme heatwaves can trigger heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but health experts say some people on specific medications can be more prone to these types of risks. Fox - Seattle For the second half of the 19th century and the early part of the 20th, pneumonia was a leading cause of death that killed hundreds of thousands of people. Sir William Osler – usually considered the father of modern medicine – described pneumonia at the time as "the most fatal of all acute diseases" because it killed about one in four of the people it infected during the Civil War. Thanks to advancements in modern medicine, though, pneumonia in the U.S. is not as fatal as it once was. Still, some 41,000 people in the country die from the disease every year – and more than 1.4 million people still visit an emergency room because of it, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here's what pneumonia is, what causes it and how the disease is usually treated once it has been diagnosed. What is pneumonia? Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that exists inside of the lungs, says Dr. Jillian Diuguid-Gerber, an internal medicine specialist at NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull. She explains that it's what happens when the tiny air sacs inside of the lungs (called alveoli) fill with fluid or pus. This can lead to clogged airways or inflammation that can make it difficult to breathe. Telltale shortness of breath, rapid breathing or other breathing difficulties are the most worrisome symptoms of pneumonia, as they "can be a sign of low oxygen levels," says Diuguid-Gerber. But breathing difficulties are not the only symptom of the disease. Other symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, sweating "and fever and cough are especially common," says Dr. David Levine, pediatrician and the Chief of Ambulatory Pediatrics at the Atlantic Health System's Goryeb Children's Hospital in New Jersey. Symptoms of pneumonia can be concerning in anyone but are especially problematic in children as their lungs are still developing; they have smaller airways than adults. "Pneumonia can also be very worrisome in people with weakened immune systems and with existing lung problems," adds Diuguid-Gerber. Did you see? COPD can be debilitating. What exactly is it? What causes pneumonia? Pneumonia is caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, "but usually when people are thinking of pneumonia, they are thinking of the kind caused by bacteria," says Diuguid-Gerber. She explains that the most common bacteria to cause the disease is called Streptococcus pneumoniae, but other bacteria can also cause it. These include Haemophilus influenzae, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Beyond bacteria, "viruses are also common causes of pneumonia," says Diuguid-Gerber. These include any virus that can affect the respiratory system, including influenza (flu) viruses, the adenovirus (similar to the common cold), RSV, human metapneumovirus and the coronavirus (COVID-19). While bacteria and viruses are behind most pneumonia cases, Levine says that fungi can also cause pneumonia. Pneumocystis jirovecii and Histoplasma capsulatum are the types of fungi most commonly responsible. The cause of the disease also determines whether pneumonia is contagious or not. The viral forms of it that are most contagious are transmitted "through respiratory droplets being released into the air when a person coughs, sneezes or even talks," says Levine. Heads up: RSV is common and sometimes dangerous. Here's what to know. How is pneumonia treated? Regardless of what has caused the disease to develop, symptoms of pneumonia are often targeted through everyday remedies like getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated with plenty of fluids using a humidifier to soothe irritated airways and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to treat discomfort. Hospitalization may be needed in order to provide oxygen support or intravenous hydration. Treating the cause of the disease can often be done with nothing more than "at-home care," says Levine, "but some cases of the disease require antibiotics." Antibiotics only treat bacterial forms of pneumonia, however, and antiviral medications are used to treat viral forms for the disease, Diuguid-Gerber explains. Antifungal medications are usually needed to treat fungal pneumonia. The discomfort of pneumonia and associated treatment can often be altogether avoided through vaccination. "Getting the pneumonia vaccine, flu vaccine or COVID vaccine could all help prevent pneumonia," says Diuguid-Gerber. Indeed, pneumonia vaccines have been shown to be between 45% and 75% effective in preventing the disease, depending on what type of pneumonia you're dealing with. And even if you're among the people who get pneumonia despite having gotten the vaccine, Levine adds, "vaccines can prevent many of the worst outcomes of the disease."
Indian Express
22-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Can hospital superbugs chew up stents and implants? Here's what a new study says
A dangerous hospital-acquired bacteria can digest and live on plastics present in sutures, stents, wound dressings and implants in your body. Researchers from UK's Brunel University also found that when the bacteria used plastics as its food source, it led to the formation of more biofilms — barriers that can protect the pathogen from attacks by the immune system and antibiotics. The finding means that bacteria, such as the one they studied, could degrade medical implants, lead to infections at the site of the implant and cause infections that are harder to treat. What did the researchers find? There are bacteria in the environment that have developed the capacity to break down different types of plastics. So researchers wanted to see whether bacteria that cause infections in humans could also lead to such degradation within the body. For the study, scientists looked for different pathogens with genes that could potentially produce enzymes similar to the ones that environmental bacteria use to degrade plastics. While they found several hits, they selected a Pseudomonas aeruginosa sample that came from a patient's wound. They isolated an enzyme — which they named Pap1— that could digest a type of bio-degradable plastic frequently used in medical devices called polycaprolactone (PCL) plastic. The researchers found that the enzyme degraded 78 per cent of the plastic sample in just seven days. Importantly, the researchers found that the bacteria were not only degrading the plastic, they were also using it as their carbon source — effectively eating it. 'This means we need to reconsider how pathogens exist in the hospital environment. Plastics, including plastic surfaces, could potentially be food for these bacteria. Pathogens with this ability could survive for longer in hospitals,' Dr Ronan McCarthy, author and professor of biomedical sciences at Brunel University, said in a release. Why is this concerning? This is concerning for several reasons: One, bacteria could live on in hospitals or within a patient even when there aren't any other nutrients present. Two, they could degrade medical devices that use plastics, leading to their failure. This could lead to a rethink of materials that should be used for medical devices. Three, researchers found that the plastic-digesting bacteria could cause more severe infections. The researchers further found that the bacteria were using the broken down plastic molecules to create biofilms (a matrix made of sugars, proteins, fats and DNA) that make pathogens more resistant and difficult to treat. Four, degrading medical devices would also mean that the pathogens would be able to create pits and niches within the human body, where it could be shielded from the immune system and antibiotics, again causing difficult-to-treat infections. Are there other pathogens that could have this ability? Researchers found that other pathogens like Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, too, carried genes that could potentially create plastic-digesting enzymes. More studies are needed. Importantly, the researchers found that Pap1 enzyme was structurally similar to known enzymes that can degrade even more hardy plastics such as PET bottles.
The Sun
19-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
LiveSpo® NAVAX Nasal-Spray Probiotics: A New Approach in Supporting the Treatment of Rhinosinusitis and Otitis Media
HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 May 2025 - LiveSpo® NAVAX – a nasal-spray probiotic product developed by Vietnamese scientists – has recently been published in the high-ranking international scientific journal Scientific Reports-Nature, recognizing its effectiveness in supporting the treatment of rhinosinusitis and otitis media in children. This marks the third consecutive study on the product published in a prestigious international scientific platform, reinforcing a promising new direction in non-antibiotic respiratory care. The findings from the clinical study, conducted Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy in collaboration with other institutions, was published on January 27, 2025, in Scientific Reports-Nature, a renowned journal under the Nature Portfolio (UK). The results demonstrated significant effectiveness in children within just 3–7 days of use. Additionally, data also showed positive improvements in adults, highlighting the product's potential for broader application in the future. The study was carried out from November 2023 to December 2024 with the participation of 126 patients, including both children and adults. Among children with acute rhinosinusitis and perforated acute otitis media, the treatment results were particularly notable: after 3 days of using LiveSpo® NAVAX, nasal congestion decreased by 68%, twice as much as the saline group. After 7 days, 97% of the children had no more nasal discharge, and 100% had no more ear discharge. The concentration of pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae in nasal and ear secretions dropped more than 1,200 times. Importantly, no side effects were recorded during the entire trial – even in children with weakened immune systems. In the adult group with acute sinusitis, symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and purulent discharge improved significantly after 3 days of use – with reductions of 53%, 78%, and 61%, respectively. After 7 days, 91% of patients no longer experienced nasal discharge. Laboratory results showed a substantial reduction in pathogenic bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased over 380-fold and Haemophilus influenzae decreased over 49,000-fold compared to the Control group receiving physiological saline According to the research team, the effectiveness of LiveSpo® NAVAX origins from its ability to modulate local inflammatory responses and enhance mucosal immunity through the competitive biological mechanism of spore-forming Bacillus probiotics. Inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly decreased, while levels of IgA – a key protective antibody at the mucosal surface – increased, contributing to the restoration of the nose and ear's natural defense barrier. This study not only adds to the growing body of scientific evidence supporting LiveSpo® NAVAX's efficacy in respiratory care but also affirms Vietnam's biomedical research capabilities on the international scientific map. It paves the way for a safe, sustainable respiratory treatment alternative that reduces reliance on antibiotics – especially for vulnerable groups like children. Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh, Chairman and Founder of LiveSpo Pharma, shared: 'At LiveSpo, we prioritize the research and development of internationally standardized products, combining modern medicine with advanced probiotic technology to deliver safe and effective health solutions for the community – all with a vision of A Future Without Antibiotics.' Khieu TH, Le DP, Nguyen BT, Ngo BT, Chu HT, Truong DM, Nguyen HM, Nguyen AH, Pham TD, Van Nguyen AT. Alleviating symptoms of paediatric acute rhinosinusitis and acute otitis media with otorrhea using nasal-spraying Bacillus probiotics: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):3410. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-87372-2. PMID: 39870748; PMCID: PMC11772584.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
LiveSpo(R) NAVAX Nasal-Spray Probiotics: A New Approach in Supporting the Treatment of Rhinosinusitis and Otitis Media
HANOI, VN / / May 19, 2025 / LiveSpo® NAVAX - a nasal-spray probiotic product developed by Vietnamese scientists - has recently been published in the high-ranking international scientific journal Scientific Reports-Nature, recognizing its effectiveness in supporting the treatment of rhinosinusitis and otitis media in children. This marks the third consecutive study on the product published in a prestigious international scientific platform, reinforcing a promising new direction in non-antibiotic respiratory care. The findings from the clinical study, conducted Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy in collaboration with other institutions, was published on January 27, 2025, in Scientific Reports-Nature, a renowned journal under the Nature Portfolio (UK). The results demonstrated significant effectiveness in children within just 3-7 days of use. Additionally, data also showed positive improvements in adults, highlighting the product's potential for broader application in the future. The study was carried out from November 2023 to December 2024 with the participation of 126 patients, including both children and adults. Among children with acute rhinosinusitis and perforated acute otitis media, the treatment results were particularly notable: after 3 days of using LiveSpo® NAVAX, nasal congestion decreased by 68%, twice as much as the saline group. After 7 days, 97% of the children had no more nasal discharge, and 100% had no more ear discharge. The concentration of pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae in nasal and ear secretions dropped more than 1,200 times. Importantly, no side effects were recorded during the entire trial - even in children with weakened immune systems. In the adult group with acute sinusitis, symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and purulent discharge improved significantly after 3 days of use - with reductions of 53%, 78%, and 61%, respectively. After 7 days, 91% of patients no longer experienced nasal discharge. Laboratory results showed a substantial reduction in pathogenic bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased over 380-fold and Haemophilus influenzae decreased over 49,000-fold compared to the Control group receiving physiological saline According to the research team, the effectiveness of LiveSpo® NAVAX origins from its ability to modulate local inflammatory responses and enhance mucosal immunity through the competitive biological mechanism of spore-forming Bacillus probiotics. Inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly decreased, while levels of IgA - a key protective antibody at the mucosal surface - increased, contributing to the restoration of the nose and ear's natural defense barrier. This study not only adds to the growing body of scientific evidence supporting LiveSpo® NAVAX's efficacy in respiratory care but also affirms Vietnam's biomedical research capabilities on the international scientific map. It paves the way for a safe, sustainable respiratory treatment alternative that reduces reliance on antibiotics - especially for vulnerable groups like children. Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh, Chairman and Founder of LiveSpo Pharma, shared:"At LiveSpo, we prioritize the research and development of internationally standardized products, combining modern medicine with advanced probiotic technology to deliver safe and effective health solutions for the community - all with a vision of A Future Without Antibiotics." References:Khieu TH, Le DP, Nguyen BT, Ngo BT, Chu HT, Truong DM, Nguyen HM, Nguyen AH, Pham TD, Van Nguyen AT. Alleviating symptoms of paediatric acute rhinosinusitis and acute otitis media with otorrhea using nasal-spraying Bacillus probiotics: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):3410. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-87372-2. PMID: 39870748; PMCID: PMC11772584. About LiveSpo Pharma LiveSpo is an R&D, manufacturing, and distribution brand of Clinically Proven Medical Probiotics, leading in breakthrough technology, rapid effectiveness, and convenience, aiming for "A Future Without Antibiotics". Our vision: In 2027, LiveSpo will have 1.5 million consumers who use Spore probiotics for digestive and respiratory health instead of antibiotics, with outstanding benefits and customer experiences. Established since 2010 by Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh (Dr. ANH) and his colleagues, LiveSpo has remained steadfast in its belief that Live Probiotic Spores - Spobiotic - will pave the way to a future without antibiotics for everyone. Hotline: 1800.088808 Website: Media Contact SOURCE: LiveSpo View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Arabian Post
19-05-2025
- Health
- Arabian Post
LiveSpo® NAVAX Nasal-Spray Probiotics: A New Approach in Supporting the Treatment of Rhinosinusitis and Otitis Media
The findings from the clinical study, conducted Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy in collaboration with other institutions, was published on January 27, 2025, in Scientific Reports-Nature, a renowned journal under the Nature Portfolio (UK). The results demonstrated significant effectiveness in children within just 3–7 days of use. Additionally, data also showed positive improvements in adults, highlighting the product's potential for broader application in the future. The study was carried out from November 2023 to December 2024 with the participation of 126 patients, including both children and adults. Among children with acute rhinosinusitis and perforated acute otitis media, the treatment results were particularly notable: after 3 days of using LiveSpo® NAVAX, nasal congestion decreased by 68%, twice as much as the saline group. After 7 days, 97% of the children had no more nasal discharge, and 100% had no more ear discharge. The concentration of pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae in nasal and ear secretions dropped more than 1,200 times. Importantly, no side effects were recorded during the entire trial – even in children with weakened immune systems. In the adult group with acute sinusitis, symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and purulent discharge improved significantly after 3 days of use – with reductions of 53%, 78%, and 61%, respectively. After 7 days, 91% of patients no longer experienced nasal discharge. Laboratory results showed a substantial reduction in pathogenic bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased over 380-fold and Haemophilus influenzae decreased over 49,000-fold compared to the Control group receiving physiological saline According to the research team, the effectiveness of LiveSpo® NAVAX origins from its ability to modulate local inflammatory responses and enhance mucosal immunity through the competitive biological mechanism of spore-forming Bacillus probiotics. Inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly decreased, while levels of IgA – a key protective antibody at the mucosal surface – increased, contributing to the restoration of the nose and ear's natural defense barrier. This study not only adds to the growing body of scientific evidence supporting LiveSpo® NAVAX's efficacy in respiratory care but also affirms Vietnam's biomedical research capabilities on the international scientific map. It paves the way for a safe, sustainable respiratory treatment alternative that reduces reliance on antibiotics – especially for vulnerable groups like children. Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh, Chairman and Founder of LiveSpo Pharma, shared: 'At LiveSpo, we prioritize the research and development of internationally standardized products, combining modern medicine with advanced probiotic technology to deliver safe and effective health solutions for the community – all with a vision of A Future Without Antibiotics.' References: Khieu TH, Le DP, Nguyen BT, Ngo BT, Chu HT, Truong DM, Nguyen HM, Nguyen AH, Pham TD, Van Nguyen AT. Alleviating symptoms of paediatric acute rhinosinusitis and acute otitis media with otorrhea using nasal-spraying Bacillus probiotics: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):3410. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-87372-2. PMID: 39870748; PMCID: PMC11772584. Hashtag: #LiveSpo The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About LiveSpo Pharma LiveSpo is an R&D, manufacturing, and distribution brand of Clinically Proven Medical Probiotics, leading in breakthrough technology, rapid effectiveness, and convenience, aiming for 'A Future Without Antibiotics'. Our vision: In 2027, LiveSpo will have 1.5 million consumers who use Spore probiotics for digestive and respiratory health instead of antibiotics, with outstanding benefits and customer experiences. Established since 2010 by Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh (Dr. ANH) and his colleagues, LiveSpo has remained steadfast in its belief that Live Probiotic Spores – Spobiotic – will pave the way to a future without antibiotics for everyone. Hotline: 1800.088808 Website:
