Rashes, bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, bronchioleal cysts, cystic fibrosis, respiratory infections, pneumonia are among the diseases that could soon be diagnosed with a flu shot, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The findings could pave the way for people to receive treatment for illnesses such as these at home or in hospitals without having to travel abroad.
The researchers, led by Andrew G. Johnson, a professor of medicine at the University of Florida, looked at the prevalence of influenza and other infections that were considered “serious” in more than 100 countries and regions around the world.
The researchers used data on the number of flu cases and hospitalizations for respiratory illnesses to calculate the likelihood that a person with these conditions could develop the conditions themselves.
They found that, as with many other diseases, people with these respiratory conditions are more likely to have their cases detected when they travel abroad, while people who do not have these conditions are much less likely to be detected in the United States.
The researchers also found that those who were tested positive for respiratory infections were more likely than those with milder respiratory illnesses and those with other respiratory conditions to develop a serious condition.
“The fact that it’s more common in these countries with mild respiratory conditions is very interesting,” Johnson said.
However, the researchers caution that the findings do not mean that people who don’t have respiratory illnesses can get vaccinated.
Some people, such as pregnant women, are more susceptible to influenza, Johnson said, so people should be monitored closely for signs of the illness.
The study comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to urge Americans to be vaccinated before the end of the year.
The CDC said it will also continue to update its website, which will include a section that includes information on flu shots, and update the warning labels.