This time of year, Twitter and Google searches capture innumerable complaints and questions about the flu. Luckily, new research established by Google and Johns Hopkins University claim this online buzz is a good thing. By using aggregate flu-related terms, you can now analyze social media trends to track and predict flu outbreaks. (more…)
Google’s flu trend map painted the whole country red this week, and the CDC’s flu map reported widespread outbreaks in almost every state. With seasonal influenza in full swing, many people have taken note and gotten the recommended flu shot; however, the CDC recently released a report explaining that “adult vaccination coverage remains low for most routinely recommended vaccines.” All sorts of excuses keep us from getting vaccinated, but staying current with immunizations is worth the pain.
Aside from sending physicians door-to-door, how can the CDC encourage people to get recommended immunizations? (more…)
Today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched its newest anti-smoking advertising campaign and is getting real with graphic images and commentary from 14 individuals stricken with tobacco related illnesses and disabilities all before the age of 50.
The $54-million campaign dubbed “Tips from Former Smokers” is scheduled for a 12-week media run on various channels including mainstream television, radio, print, billboards, bus-shelter, and of course on online and mobile venues. In addition to the individuals who are already suffering from tobacco-related illnesses, three other people were chosen to be a part of the advertising campaign talking about their experiences with tobacco and how they quit before it was too late.
Scarily this $54 million campaign is only a drop in the bucket for the tobacco industry. According to Gardener Harris over at the New York Times, the average ad spend for the tobacco industry is about the same price for the 12-week campaign plus some for just two days of consumer facing commercial efforts.
