The accommodations examined included extra time on assignments, regular breaks, working at a standing desk, and studying in a quiet area. However, none of these strategies showed significant improvements in classroom behavior or academic performance among the 255 children with ADHD involved in the study.

According to Gregory Fabiano, professor of psychology at FIU and lead author of the research, there was no evidence that any of the accommodations worked even when combined with other treatments like behavioral interventions or medication. This finding may come as a surprise given the widespread use of these accommodations in schools.

The study involved children with ADHD who participated in FIU's Summer Treatment Program between 2022 and 2025. The program aimed to provide a supportive environment for kids with ADHD to learn and develop skills.

Further research is needed to determine what types of accommodations might be more effective in helping students with ADHD succeed.

Researchers conducted an experiment to measure the effectiveness of various classroom accommodations in helping students with ADHD succeed academically.

While some common classroom accommodations showed no significant benefits, other interventions had a measurable impact on student behavior and academic performance. Behavioral treatments were found to have a particularly positive effect, reducing rule violations during independent work by 37%. This reduction was significantly higher than the decrease seen when children received neither treatment nor medication.

Stimulant medication also proved effective in reducing rule violations, with a notable decrease of 61% compared to children who received no treatment. Furthermore, medication helped students complete more work and earn higher quiz scores, indicating an improvement in academic performance. The results suggest that certain interventions can have a tangible impact on student behavior and learning.

Many classroom accommodations are designed to address specific ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty paying attention or staying seated. However, these accommodations may not necessarily address the underlying challenges that interfere with a child's ability to learn and complete schoolwork.

The assumption that common ADHD accommodations are effective for all students may be misguided, according to researchers who warn against a "one-size-fits-all" approach.

Fabiano highlights that while some children may benefit from specific supports tailored to their needs, a blanket application of accommodations is unlikely to yield the desired results. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced understanding of ADHD and its effects on individual students.

Positive behavioral supports are gaining traction as an effective way to help children with ADHD stay motivated and focused in class. Fabiano recommends that teachers incorporate simple strategies such as praising good behavior, setting clear expectations, and providing consistent feedback into their everyday routines.

Daily report cards can also be a valuable tool for establishing individual goals and tracking progress. By receiving regular feedback and positive reinforcement for meeting their targets, children with ADHD are more likely to stay on track and meet the expectations set by their teachers.

Teachers are being encouraged to rethink their approach when it comes to helping students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) succeed in the classroom. Instead of just providing more time for assignments, they should focus on setting specific goals and regularly checking in on progress.

This shift in strategy is aimed at strengthening behaviors that support learning, rather than simply modifying the environment around a student. By doing so, teachers can help children with ADHD develop essential skills and habits that will benefit them throughout their academic careers.

The study's findings have also sparked questions about the use of common accommodations in individualized education programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans. These documents are designed to meet each child's unique needs, but it appears they may not be as effective as previously thought.

Schools should prioritize behavioral interventions in general education classrooms, where most children with ADHD spend their school day. This includes students who receive special education services, and parents can play a key role in ensuring their child's IEP or 504 plan is tailored to their individual needs.

Pelham's research has significantly altered our understanding of ADHD treatment approaches.

While stimulant medication may improve classroom behavior and productivity in children, it does not necessarily enhance their ability to absorb new information. This discrepancy was discovered by Pelham and his team in a 2022 study that aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various treatments for ADHD. The findings suggest that medication alone is insufficient to address the complex needs of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

In contrast, starting with behavioral interventions has been found to be more cost-effective than initiating treatment with medication. This approach was identified by Pelham's earlier work as a viable option for improving outcomes in children with ADHD. The research underscores the importance of considering multiple factors when developing effective treatments for this condition. It also highlights the need for further investigation into the most suitable approaches.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 7.1 million children in the United States have a current ADHD diagnosis. This accounts for nearly 12% of those aged 3 to 17 who receive an ADHD diagnosis each year. Many of these children rely on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans to access additional support at school.

The study suggests that classroom accommodations for students with ADHD may not be enough to ensure their success.

While these students rely heavily on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 plans, it seems that a more comprehensive approach is needed to support them effectively. The emphasis should shift from relying solely on accommodations to implementing effective treatments within the regular classroom environment.

By giving children with ADHD the best chance to succeed, educators can help them feel proud of their accomplishments in the classroom.

Phys.org: https://phys.org/news/2026-11-common-adhd-classroom-accommodations-students.html

Legionella bacteria thrive in warm environments, making it difficult for standard water heaters to eradicate them completely. While these bacteria may be vulnerable at higher temperatures, achieving such heat with existing water heaters would also pose a risk of scalding to human skin when faucets are turned on.

Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology have developed an innovative design that seeks to utilize heat exchangers in a new way. This technology is commonly found in air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and refrigerators. To learn more about this approach, I spoke with David Yashar, a mechanical engineer who played a key role in its development.

Yashar's team had to find a solution that would allow tank temperatures of around 160 degrees Fahrenheit to be both safe for humans and practical in everyday use. They achieved this by incorporating an unmixed heat exchanger into the design. This component allows cold water entering the system to cool hot water leaving the tank, without mixing the two.

The new design utilizes a separate section for the heat exchanger, which contains both the water inlet and outlet. This separation is crucial in preventing the hot and cold waters from mixing, thereby maintaining safe temperatures while still achieving the high heat needed to kill Legionella bacteria.

The new water heater design utilizes an innovative principle where incoming cold water receives a heating boost from the hot-water outlet while being cooled to safe levels for human consumption.

This process enables the tank to maintain high temperatures necessary to prevent the growth of pathogens behind illnesses such as Legionnaires' disease, which has a fatality rate of around 10%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As I examined the design further, I noticed similarities between the unmixed heat exchanger and those used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. In fact, air conditioners employ a heat exchanger to pull heat from indoor air and push it outside without drawing in external air.

The use of an unmixed heat exchanger is not unique to water heaters; similar technology can be found in refrigerators and heat pumps. For instance, heat pumps may utilize a heat exchanger for defrosting ice buildup when operating in heating mode.

When discussing the similarities with Yashar, he explained that his background in HVAC&R led him to draw inspiration from existing technologies. He noted that it is common to use unmixed heat exchangers to manipulate temperature conditions and achieve specific outcomes.

Yashar's idea for the unmixed heat exchanger was sparked by learning about Legionella and traditional mitigation strategies. By using this design, he found a simple and cost-effective way to raise water temperatures while also cooling them back down to safe levels.

The innovative design of Yashar's heat exchanger has not only improved energy efficiency but also found a simple and cost-effective way to raise water temperatures while cooling them back down to safe levels. This breakthrough is a testament to the value of repurposing existing technology.

While the concept has been proven using a 60-gallon tank, it remains uncertain when this technology will become available for consumer use. Manufacturers must first license the design and adapt it into products suitable for homes, a process that could take several years or be completed quickly.

Retrofitting existing water heaters in people's homes is possible but would require significant modifications to the tank's hardware and controls. According to Yashar, while the concept was initially designed with retrofitting in mind, the steps involved may not be straightforward for existing applications.

The success of a retrofit depends on proper insulation, which is essential for minimizing standby losses when the system is not in use. Without adequate insulation, any efficiency gains from the heat exchanger would be negated by heat loss during standby mode.

Extra insulation is necessary to ensure that the tank temperature does not exceed what the existing system was designed for, thereby preventing significant energy waste. This highlights the importance of considering practical implementation when developing innovative technologies like Yashar's heat exchanger design.

Developing a product based on Yashar's heat exchanger design seems more feasible than retrofitting existing water heaters. This approach would allow manufacturers to incorporate the innovative technology from the outset and balance its benefits with practical considerations like energy efficiency.

Implementing such a system could involve designing new appliances or modifying existing ones, taking into account factors like cost-effectiveness for consumers.

CNET: https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/safer-water-at-home-new-water-heater-tech-aims-to-kill-bacteria-in-the-tank/

The individual is believed to have contracted the virus after coming into contact with infected cattle, highlighting the potential risks associated with exposure to contaminated livestock.

No further details about the deceased person or their circumstances leading up to the illness are currently available, as officials continue to investigate the matter and gather information.

A new death has been reported in Washington state due to bird flu, a strain of avian influenza that has been spreading rapidly among animals and humans in recent years. This latest fatality occurred after exposure to infected cattle at a local dairy.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed that the deceased individual was infected with H5N1, one of the most common variants of bird flu. This strain is known to be highly contagious among animals, including poultry, cows, and wild birds, increasing the risk of human exposure.

In related developments, two other U.S. deaths have been linked to bird flu since 2024. The first reported case was an elderly person in Louisiana who died from H5N1 in January 2025. A second case occurred in Washington state last November, where a rarer version called H5N5 was identified.

County health officials in Yakima are working closely with the state health department to identify individuals who may have been in close contact with those infected. As part of this effort, they are monitoring 33 dairy herds that recently tested positive for H5N1, highlighting the widespread presence of the virus among local livestock.

The recent surge in bird flu cases has raised concerns about its potential impact on human health. With the virus spreading rapidly among animals and increasing exposure risks for people, public health officials continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting of any suspected cases.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported over 70 human cases of bird flu in the United States since January 2024, but emphasizes that the risk to the general public remains low.

An analysis of the virus's genetic sequence from the Washington state resident who died revealed no changes that would increase its contagiousness or severity. This suggests that the virus is not adapting to make it easier for humans to contract.

Those in close contact with sick or dead birds are advised to take precautions, such as wearing protective gear like masks and gloves when handling poultry. Individuals working on farms are considered particularly vulnerable due to their increased exposure.

As the bird flu continues to spread rapidly among animals, prompting concerns about potential human transmission, public health officials stress the importance of vigilance in monitoring for suspected cases and prompt reporting to prevent further outbreaks.

ABC News Health: https://abcnews.com/Health/wireStory/washington-state-resident-dies-bird-flu-exposure-infected-137781936

The outbreak has claimed nearly half of those infected, with many others still fighting for their lives. Some experts warn that if left unchecked, the outbreak could become one of the worst in history. However, not all researchers share this pessimistic view, and projections vary widely depending on current circumstances.

Researchers are working to update their models to better predict the spread of the disease. Meanwhile, some experts believe that while there is a risk of Ebola spreading to other countries, it is unlikely to cause significant problems in most nations. However, nearly 30 cases have already been confirmed outside of Congo, and this number is expected to rise if the outbreak continues unchecked.

Justin Lessler, a researcher at the University of North Carolina who studies infectious disease outbreaks, notes that the risk of Ebola spreading to other countries will increase if the outbreak is not brought under control. This highlights the need for effective containment measures to prevent further cases from emerging.

In an effort to combat the spread of the disease, researchers are hopeful that a new vaccine will become available next year. This could potentially help to control the outbreak and bring it to an end.

The Ebola outbreak in Congo has reached a plateau, with approximately 400 to 500 new confirmed cases reported each week. This steady number is seen as a mixed blessing by health experts, who acknowledge that the situation could be worse.

According to Dr. Boghuma Titanji, an infectious disease specialist at Emory University, "cases are not rising exponentially" for now. However, she notes that the plateau has set a high baseline, and the outbreak remains a significant concern.

One of the major hurdles in controlling the outbreak is limited contact tracing and collaboration with affected communities. In some cases, health workers spend more time trying to convince locals to work with them than providing actual care.

The data suggests that fewer than a quarter of new cases are linked to people who have been in direct contact with an infected individual. This indicates ongoing chains of transmission that have not yet been identified by health authorities.

As the number of cases continues to mount, there is growing concern that more infected individuals may travel to other countries. Several nations, including France, Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, have already reported cases linked to the Congo outbreak.

The risk of Ebola spreading to the US is extremely low at this point, according to experts who are closely monitoring the outbreak. However, they warn that there is a higher risk of flare-ups in areas where health systems are weak due to poverty or conflict.

In regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure, such as South Sudan, the potential for Ebola to spread rapidly exists. This is because the virus can be transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids like blood, vomit, and semen, making it a serious concern in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.

The current outbreak has already surpassed many previous ones, including the devastating 2014-2016 West Africa epidemic that resulted in over 28,000 infections and more than 11,000 deaths. This latest outbreak is notable for its rapid spread and severity, with numbers of cases and fatalities exceeding those seen during the West African crisis.

It's worth noting that past outbreaks have largely been caused by the Ebola virus itself, rather than related viruses like the Bundibugyo strain currently responsible for this outbreak. Additionally, a range of challenges including armed conflict, gaps in healthcare services, mistrust, and misinformation have hindered efforts to contain the spread of the disease.

The Ebola outbreak in Congo has reached a plateau, but experts warn that this is not necessarily a cause for celebration. Conditions on the ground vary significantly, which explains why some areas are seeing a decrease in cases while others are experiencing an increase.

According to researchers and response workers, effective control measures such as testing, care, and contact tracing can only be implemented if they are carried out in close collaboration with local communities. This involves going door-to-door and village-by-village to break the chain of transmission and prevent further escalation.

Several experts have expressed concerns that the situation is likely to worsen before it improves. Dr. Wendy Armstrong, president of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, believes that the outbreak will continue through the end of this year.

The development of effective vaccines offers some hope for the future. Researchers are currently testing shots against the Bundibugyo virus, and experts are optimistic that an effective vaccine could become available within the next 12 months. This is a significant improvement over the situation during the 2014-2016 West Africa outbreak, when no vaccines were available.

Forecasting the trajectory of the outbreak remains challenging due to various uncertainties. In May, computer models generated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that the number of cases could rise from 10,000 to more than 20,000 over a three-month period, assuming there were around 400 confirmed cases at the time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is revising its computer models to predict the trajectory of the Ebola outbreak.

Disease modeler Alessandro Vespignani from Northeastern University has been working closely with US and international health officials to monitor the trends in the outbreak, but the CDC has declined to share details on how the situation is unfolding by allowing staff scientists to be interviewed.

The lack of a significant decline in weekly case numbers suggests that the outbreak may not yet be under control.

ABC News Health: https://abcnews.com/Health/wireStory/experts-warn-wider-spread-ebola-outbreak-reaches-plateau-137674660

For many, this decision is driven by a desire to preserve their fertility options despite financial constraints.

Some individuals may be hesitant about having children but want to keep the door open for the future, while others might face health insurance gaps or limitations in accessing certain treatments domestically.

A self-employed writer who recently went through egg freezing treatment abroad reported that she was motivated by the need to act quickly after turning 35 and facing a "fertility cliff."

She had opted for reproductive tourism due to the unaffordable nature of her domestic health insurance, which left her with no choice but to seek more affordable options elsewhere.

According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of US residents travel internationally each year for medical care, including reproductive services.

The cost of fertility treatments in the US can be prohibitively expensive for many women, with an average egg freezing cycle costing $16,000 according to FertilityIQ. This has led some patients to seek out more affordable options abroad.

For one woman who underwent treatment in Mexico, the total cost was significantly lower at around $7,000, which included flights, food, accommodations, and activities for the duration of her three-week stay. The quality of care she received was also highly praised, with every aspect of her cycle being thoroughly personalized.

The allure of cheaper fertility treatments abroad is not limited to egg freezing alone. Many women are also traveling to other countries for IVF and gestational surrogacy services. According to Dr. Vega Croker, American patients make up one of the clinic's fastest-growing groups in these areas.

Some women are driven by financial considerations, while others seek out more personalized care or better success rates. One California-based online business coach, Alisa Purdie, opted for fertility treatment in Barbados after researching options in Turkey, Greece, and the UK. The Barbados Fertility Centre stood out to her due to its 50% cost savings compared to US clinics.

Purdie's decision was also influenced by the warmth and compassion of the staff she met during a visit and exploratory phone calls. She was impressed by the clinic's data-driven approach, which included a 72% success rate with donor egg IVF treatments. This level of transparency and expertise played a significant role in her final decision.

The reasons for seeking out fertility treatment abroad are varied, but the desire to have children is often at the forefront. For many women, the financial burden of fertility treatments in their home country can be too great, leading them to explore more affordable options elsewhere.

Many women are now traveling abroad for fertility treatments due to the high costs and limited options available in their home countries.

One such woman is Purdie, who found success at a Barbados clinic where she fertilized donor eggs with her husband using embryos transferred from California.

The 47-year-old mother credits the treatment for allowing her to carry a pregnancy, which was her first attempt after years of planning and trying different options.

Purdie's experience has inspired her to share her story on social media and run a community called IVF Sisterhood, aimed at supporting women with fertility issues, particularly those over 45.

The community has attracted many women who are seeking treatment abroad due to concerns about the cost and quality of care in their home countries.

The complexities of reproductive rights vary greatly from country to country, making it essential for individuals seeking egg freezing or IVF treatments to research the specific laws and regulations in their chosen destination.

In Spain, single women and same-sex couples have access to IVF treatments with a sperm or egg donor, providing a more inclusive environment for those who require these services. This is particularly noteworthy for individuals from countries where such options are limited or unavailable.

One of the key factors to consider when selecting a country for reproductive care is the minimum and maximum age limits for embryo transfers. While some countries, like Greece, allow transfers up to 54 years old, others have more restrictive policies in place.

In contrast, Barbados has a strict limit of 49 years old for embryo transfers, highlighting the need for individuals to carefully evaluate their options based on their specific circumstances and needs. This level of scrutiny is crucial when navigating the complexities of reproductive care abroad.

The lack of autonomy over sperm donors is another consideration for those seeking IVF treatments in certain countries. In Spain, for instance, patients are not permitted to choose their own sperm donor if they wish to use one, a limitation that may be significant for some individuals.

In addition to legal parameters, social norms and cultural attitudes towards reproductive care can also impact access to services. South Korea is a prime example of this, where single women face significant barriers in accessing IVF treatments due to the requirement for proof of a heterosexual marriage before each cycle.

Korea's medical system has gained popularity among straight couples seeking IVF treatments due to its efficiency and technological advancements. According to Jung, a reproductive expert, Korea offers a straightforward process that is free from unnecessary complications. The country's medical field has made significant strides in recent years, making it an attractive option for those looking for high-quality care.

While the cost savings in Korea may not be as substantial for Americans compared to other countries, the average IVF cycle in Seoul still falls within a relatively affordable range of $5,000 to $10,000. Jung notes that people are drawn to Korea not only for its medical services but also for the possibility of combining their treatment with other medical work and beauty treatments.

Korea has emerged as a hub for medical tourism, offering a wide range of services beyond reproductive care. This convergence of medical expertise and relaxation opportunities makes it an appealing destination for those seeking IVF treatments. Jung recommends making the most of this unique aspect by incorporating leisure activities into one's treatment plan.

To minimize stress during the IVF process, Jung advises her clients to maintain a lighthearted approach. Drawing from her own experience, she emphasizes the importance of managing stress levels throughout the process. After struggling with 15 egg retrievals and 5 embryo transfers before giving birth at 43, Jung understands firsthand the challenges of staying calm under pressure.

Jung's personal experience has led her to believe that a relaxed attitude can significantly improve one's chances of success in IVF treatments. She attributes this to the reduced stress levels that come with maintaining a positive outlook and engaging in enjoyable activities during treatment. This approach allows individuals to cope better with the physical demands of hormone injections and doctor visits.

For some, incorporating leisure activities into their treatment plan means attending events like Seoul Fashion Week or indulging in fine dining. Others prefer more low-key pursuits such as professional color consultations, beauty treatments, or weekend getaways to nearby countries. Jung encourages her clients to explore these options as a way to manage stress and make the most of their time abroad.

As Garay-Stanton reflects on her experience with IVF treatment, she echoes Jung's sentiments about the importance of maintaining a relaxed attitude during this challenging process. The daily hormone injections and frequent doctor visits can be daunting, but there is still ample opportunity to explore one's destination and engage in enjoyable activities before the egg retrieval process begins.

The flexibility offered by IVF treatments allows individuals to balance their medical needs with personal interests, making it easier to navigate the often-stressful experience of reproductive care. By combining medical expertise with relaxation opportunities, Korea has become a popular destination for those seeking IVF treatments and other medical services.

Traveling abroad for reproductive treatments has become a viable option for many women seeking egg freezing and IVF services.

By going overseas, women can combine medical expertise with relaxation opportunities, allowing them to manage their treatment schedules more easily. For instance, one woman was able to attend her appointments during the day while still enjoying time in the city. Others have taken weekend trips to destinations like the Canary Islands, bringing all necessary medication along.

These women share a common sentiment: they wish they had started their journeys sooner. Some experts suggest that early hormone testing could be beneficial for those considering reproductive treatments. Meanwhile, others advise being honest about one's path in life and not letting others dictate decisions.

Conde Nast Traveler: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/why-more-women-are-traveling-abroad-for-egg-freezing-and-ivf

Typically, flu activity begins building in late fall, around October or November, and peaks between December and February. However, current data suggests that this year's flu season is already underway, with a notable increase in positive test results. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 3.4% of respiratory samples tested by clinical labs were positive for flu during the week ending September 26.

This represents a significant jump from last year, when only about 0.5% of samples tested positive at the same point in time. The surge in flu cases is particularly evident in Western states, including Washington, California, and Arizona, where patients are already testing positive for the virus. In some areas, emergency department visits related to flu have increased dramatically.

In Washington state, for instance, the proportion of emergency department visits diagnosed as flu rose from 0.25% in late August to 1.34% in early October. This represents a more than fivefold increase over just six weeks. The rapid rise in cases is prompting concerns that this year's flu season may be starting earlier and with greater intensity than usual.

As the number of reported cases continues to climb, health experts are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, particularly since October is considered an ideal time for flu shots.

The start of flu season is not necessarily determined by its geographical origin, according to experts. In fact, the timing and location of the first outbreaks can vary greatly from year to year. While some seasons may begin on the West Coast and spread eastward, others have started in the Southeast or Midwest.

There are several subtypes of flu viruses that cause seasonal flu, including two types of influenza A: H1N1 and H3N2, as well as the Victoria lineage of influenza B. Interestingly, a second subtype of influenza B is thought to be extinct, and has been replaced by the Victoria lineage in recent years.

Last season was particularly severe for children, with at least 195 deaths attributed to flu-related causes. The CDC classified this season as highly severe due to the high number of child fatalities. This highlights the importance of vaccination, especially during peak flu seasons.

The characteristics of influenza A and B viruses are distinct, with each having its own unique traits. Influenza A strains tend to cause larger outbreaks early in the season, while influenza B strains often "smolder along and account for most cases later on. This year has seen a notable shift, with H1N1 taking an initial lead over H3N2.

According to CDC data, 96% of influenza A samples subtyped during the week ending September 26 were identified as H1N1. However, this snapshot does not necessarily indicate that H1N1 will continue to dominate throughout the season, and the situation may change as more data becomes available.

The dominant strain of influenza matters because it constantly mutates, particularly in its hemagglutinin protein, which is used by the virus to latch onto human cells. This constant change makes flu a moving target, as Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, would say. The main target of flu vaccines is indeed the hemagglutinin protein.

An early start to the season does not necessarily mean it will be severe. According to its 2026-2027 season outlook, the CDC projects that this season will likely be moderate, although it only has low-to-moderate confidence in that forecast. This uncertainty highlights the complexity of predicting flu seasons.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older get an annual flu vaccine. This recommendation is based on the fact that flu can have severe consequences for certain groups, such as children under five, adults 65 and older, people with chronic health conditions, and pregnant individuals.

Influenza can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, sepsis, brain inflammation, heart inflammation, and even death. Each year in the United States, tens of thousands of people die from flu-related causes. These statistics underscore the importance of vaccination for high-risk groups.

The timing of flu vaccination is crucial. The CDC typically advises against vaccinating most adults in July or August because the protection offered by the shot can wane over time. However, with flu arriving early this year, October is the ideal time to get vaccinated, and even more so right now," according to Schaffner.

When circulating flu strains don't match those in the vaccine, it can signal a more challenging season ahead.

The body starts building protection against the flu immediately after vaccination, but this process takes about two weeks to reach its full potential.

The effectiveness of flu vaccines varies from one season to another, influenced by how well their formulation aligns with circulating viruses.

In terms of preventing symptomatic illness, vaccine efficacy differs across age groups, with adults benefiting more than younger individuals. The shot has been shown to be particularly effective in preventing severe cases of the flu.

As for mild flu cases that require medical attention, the CDC estimates that vaccines have been about 29% to 56% effective over the past decade.

The flu season is expected to start early this year, prompting health experts to recommend that people get vaccinated as soon as possible. October is considered an ideal time for vaccination, but it's not clear if this will lead to a heavier flu season.

A new option has become available in the form of mFlusiva, the first mRNA flu vaccine approved by the FDA for adults aged 50 and older. This shot contains a blueprint of genetic instructions that the body's cells use to create proteins against the flu virus, rather than actual pieces of the virus itself.

The mRNA technology used in mFlusiva is less likely to cause symptomatic disease, according to experts. It works by instructing the body's cells to produce specific proteins, such as hemagglutinin, which are found on the surface of the flu virus. The genetic instructions contained in the vaccine then break down in the body and do not influence human genetic material.

The early start to the flu season could be a sign that cases will continue to rise beyond the Western United States. However, it's still unclear if this trend will hold, and more data is needed from the CDC's weekly surveillance reports to determine the severity of the upcoming flu season.

Experts emphasize that mFlusiva cannot influence human genetic material, and its effects are limited to instructing the body's cells to produce specific proteins against the flu virus. The vaccine contains a set of instructions for three different flu subtypes, providing protection against multiple strains of the virus.

The coming weeks will provide more insight into the severity of the upcoming flu season, as the CDC continues to monitor cases and provide updates through its weekly surveillance reports.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported an increase in flu cases across the United States, indicating that this year's flu season may start earlier than usual. Typically, the peak of the flu season occurs between December and February, but experts warn that the virus is spreading rapidly, especially among children.

This surge in early-season cases has led health officials to advise people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, with October being considered an optimal time for inoculation.

Live Science: https://www.livescience.com/health/flu/october-is-the-ideal-time-to-get-vaccinated-flu-season-is-kicking-off-early-experts-say