Can Atypical Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Receive Measles Vaccine?
Can patients with atypical ankylosing spondylitis receive the measles vaccine? Dear Dr. Gao, Can a male family member who is an atypical ankylosing spondylitis patient and has been on bone-strengthening medication receive the measles vaccine? What assessments should be done pri...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello Ms. Su, thank you for your inquiry. If your family member is only taking Bone Health supplements, it will not affect immune function, and they can receive the measles vaccine. Ankylosing spondylitis itself will not impact the effectiveness of the measles vaccine or increase...[Read More] Can Atypical Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Receive Measles Vaccine?
Chronic Illness: Recurring Colds and High Chickenpox Antibody Levels
Repeated colds for three years and varicella antibody levels? Since 2015, I have been experiencing recurrent colds, chronic acute sinusitis, tonsillar enlargement/abscess, mycoplasma pneumonia, asthma, influenza, and dizziness. On average, I visit the doctor about three times a m...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the questions, here are the responses. Q1: I would like to ask the physician... Is the varicella antibody index a point of concern? A: Reference material: http://www.ucl.com.tw/webshop/shop/ServiceQueryInfo.asp?GoodsID=D0109032&GoodstypeID=D0&Midd...[Read More] Chronic Illness: Recurring Colds and High Chickenpox Antibody Levels
Rabies Vaccination Protocols: Navigating International Requirements
Rabies vaccination for prevention? Hello, Doctor. My niece (a U.S. citizen) will be returning to the U.S. after working in Japan for a year to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine this summer. Recently, she received a notification from her school stating that she must complete ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Here are the responses: 1. Will the effectiveness of vaccination be affected due to the differences in vaccines used in different locations and the varying intervals between doses? A: Generally, it will not; Taiwan's vaccination schedule consists of five...[Read More] Rabies Vaccination Protocols: Navigating International Requirements
Can You Get Hepatitis B from Using Someone Else's Pimple Extractor?
Hepatitis B infection If someone accidentally uses a comedone extractor that was previously used by a person with hepatitis B, but it was not used immediately after them, is there still a risk of infection?
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Apple: 1. The hepatitis B virus is primarily transmitted through serum. Therefore, sharing needles, razors, and other items that come into contact with blood or serum can potentially lead to infection. 2. Since nearly all citizens born in our country after 1985 have ...[Read More] Can You Get Hepatitis B from Using Someone Else's Pimple Extractor?
Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Experiencing lower back pain after receiving the flu vaccine? Hello doctor, I received the flu vaccine on Friday afternoon, and since then my lower back has been very sore. Is this a side effect of the vaccine? I need to take care of my child, and especially after sitting in the ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question "<Is back pain after receiving the flu vaccine a side effect of the vaccine?>", here is the response: I. Please refer to the CDC's Q&A: http://www.cdc.gov.tw/qa.aspx? Q1: Is the flu vaccine safe? What side effects m...[Read More] Lower Back Pain After Flu Vaccine: Is It a Side Effect?
Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
A 70-year-old individual who is uncertain about having had chickenpox should consider the following steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles: 1. **Consult a Healthcare Provider**: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss vaccination options and assess th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, I. <Regarding uncertainty about having had chickenpox and steps to prevent chickenpox and shingles> A: If you are unsure whether you have had chickenpox, you can visit a medical facility that offers antibody testing for chickenpox and shingles. Most people ma...[Read More] Preventing Chickenpox and Shingles in Uncertain Seniors: A Guide
Understanding Rabies: Incubation Period and Testing Options Explained
I am the original asker of 125792? Hello, I am the original questioner 125792. I apologize for wanting to clarify a few questions. I have researched a lot online and also asked the CDC at 1922, which said the incubation period is 1 to 3 months. However, I saw on the Department of...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Regarding the incubation period for rabies?> A: The incubation period is approximately 1 to 3 months, depending on factors such as the severity and location of the wound. <How long does it take for a human to progress from the incubation period to actual...[Read More] Understanding Rabies: Incubation Period and Testing Options Explained
Rabies Exposure Concerns: What Parents Need to Know
Rabies infection issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask, if my hand came into contact with the saliva of a stray dog and I only washed my hands normally afterward, touching water 2-3 times during that period, and then handled fruit for my child to eat (with my hands touching t...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, Regarding the question of whether contact with the saliva of a stray dog could lead to rabies infection after only washing hands normally, touching water 2-3 times, and then cutting fruit for a child (with the hands touching the fruit), especially since the child h...[Read More] Rabies Exposure Concerns: What Parents Need to Know
Cat Scratch Injury: What Diabetics Need to Know About Infection Risks
Scratched by a stray cat at Dayeh University? Since I have diabetes, I was scratched by a stray cat while feeding it. The wound is small, but what should I pay attention to? Should I get a tetanus shot? I'm a bit worried about the risk of infection or cat scratch fever.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the concerns about whether a wound may become infected or if there is a risk of cat scratch fever, according to the Centers for Disease Control data: http://www.cdc.gov.tw A. Transmission methods: Most patients (over 90%) have a history of being licked, b...[Read More] Cat Scratch Injury: What Diabetics Need to Know About Infection Risks
Is Vaccination Helpful After Being Diagnosed with Hepatitis B?
Is it beneficial to receive the vaccine after contracting hepatitis B? Hello, I would like to ask if receiving a vaccine is helpful after being confirmed to have hepatitis B. Thank you.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Zhang Huo: Generally speaking, whether it is acute hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis B, or even healthy carriers, receiving the hepatitis B vaccine should not be beneficial, and there is currently no evidence indicating a need for vaccination. If someone suggests that hepat...[Read More] Is Vaccination Helpful After Being Diagnosed with Hepatitis B?
Understanding Rabies Risks and Vaccination Decisions in Taiwan
Regarding infection issues related to case 108042? Hello, regarding the infection issue from case 108042, I am the person from Chiayi City who inquired about rabies-related questions yesterday. So, I don't really need to get vaccinated, right? (Because the risk is low, and I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Given your condition, it may not be necessary to administer the vaccine, and the attending physician may indeed believe that vaccination is not required. Therefore, self-management is recommended. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Rabies Risks and Vaccination Decisions in Taiwan
Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks and Vaccination Concerns
Transmission routes of rabies? Hello Doctor, on April 1st, I went to Xitou with a friend. On the way, I felt like something dripped on my hand, but I didn't think much of it at the time. After about an hour, while having a meal, I remembered that this area might be a rabies-...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, 1. First, refer to the explanation from the Centers for Disease Control: Transmission methods: (1) Animals infected with rabies have the virus in their saliva, which can enter the human body through bites or scratches (occasionally through skin wounds or mucous mem...[Read More] Understanding Rabies Transmission Risks and Vaccination Concerns
Can Hepatitis B Carriers Transmit the Virus to Partners Without Antibodies?
Hepatitis B carrier I am a carrier of hepatitis B. If the person I like does not have antibodies, can I transmit the virus to them? I have had tests done before, and the doctor said there were no issues.
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. The causes of hepatitis B infection can be divided into vertical and horizontal transmission. The former refers to infants being infected by hepatitis B carrier mothers at birth or during the perinatal period, while the latter includes sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, s...[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Carriers Transmit the Virus to Partners Without Antibodies?
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Hepatitis B vaccine and blood transfusion issues? Having received the hepatitis B vaccine and confirmed the presence of antibodies indicates a strong level of protection against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, while vaccination significantly reduces the risk of contra...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
1. In our country, if the hepatitis B vaccine is administered according to the schedule, it will produce antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen, thus providing protection; you are currently in this situation. 2. On the other hand, blood donation centers conduct screen...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination and Blood Transfusion Risks
Understanding the Side Effects of Rabies Vaccines in Humans
What are the side effects of rabies vaccine in humans? Hello, doctor. I apologize for following up on my previous question. I went to the hospital to receive the first dose of the rabies vaccine after being bitten by a stray cat on my ankle. However, my family believes it is unne...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the situation of receiving the first dose of rabies vaccine after being bitten by a wild cat on the ankle, while family members believe it is unnecessary and oppose vaccination because it is not an endemic area (Changhua Township), and that I am just s...[Read More] Understanding the Side Effects of Rabies Vaccines in Humans
Can You Get Infected from Dental Tools Used on Hepatitis B Patients?
Will it be contagious? Hello, Doctor. I am a dental assistant. I have a question: I used dental instruments on a patient with hepatitis B, and I accidentally caused a small cut that bled. Am I at risk of infection? I received the hepatitis B vaccine many years ago. Thank you, Doc...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The likelihood of contracting hepatitis B from exposure to the bodily fluids of a hepatitis B patient depends on the specific circumstances of that patient. If the patient is only positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), the risk of in...[Read More] Can You Get Infected from Dental Tools Used on Hepatitis B Patients?
Do Birds Transmit Rabies? What to Do After a Bird Peck Injury
Bird peck injury? Hello, doctor: I was pecked on the hand by a green-backed tit. Can birds transmit rabies? Do I need to get a rabies vaccine? Thank you very much for your response!
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Liu: The rabies virus primarily affects warm-blooded mammals, including dogs, cats, wolves, foxes, pigs, monkeys, rodents (such as mice and squirrels), and humans. Therefore, bites or pecks from birds do not cause rabies, and there have been no reported cases of such. ...[Read More] Do Birds Transmit Rabies? What to Do After a Bird Peck Injury
Where to Seek Help for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Taiwan?
If you suspect you have chronic fatigue syndrome, you can consult a primary care physician or a specialist in internal medicine. Additionally, you may consider seeing a rheumatologist or an infectious disease specialist, as they often have experience in diagnosing and managing th...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, based on your symptoms, here are a few suggestions. 1. Hepatitis B requires close monitoring, with liver function tests every three months and abdominal ultrasounds every six months. Liver issues can also cause fatigue, so please do not take this lightly. Therefore, cons...[Read More] Where to Seek Help for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Taiwan?
Can Leukemia Patients Receive Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines Together?
excuse me? Can leukemia patients receive the seasonal influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine? If so, should they be administered separately? Do the injection sites need to be different?
Dr. Cai Yaozhou Reply:
Patients with leukemia can receive both the seasonal influenza vaccine and the pneumococcal vaccine simultaneously. The pneumococcal vaccine should be administered according to vaccination guidelines: high-risk groups include individuals aged 65 and older, patients with heart dis...[Read More] Can Leukemia Patients Receive Flu and Pneumonia Vaccines Together?
Can You Get HIV or Hepatitis from a Barber's Razor?
Will this lead to an HIV infection? Dear Doctor, when I went to get a haircut, the barber used a razor to shave the sideburns after cutting my hair. Although I did not see any visible bleeding, I am worried about the possibility of infection if the previous customer had HIV or he...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Hello: According to past statistics in our country, prior to the initiation of hepatitis B vaccination, the rate of exposure to hepatitis B infection was approximately 25% to 30% in preschool-aged children; about 50% to 60% in individuals aged 10 to 20 years; around 80% in those ...[Read More] Can You Get HIV or Hepatitis from a Barber's Razor?