Investigating the awareness level about diabetes mellitus and associated factors in Tarlai (rural Islamabad).

Objectives: To determine the baseline level of awareness amongst a rural community about Diabetes Mellitus (irrespective of type 1 or type 2), its risk factors and complications.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey conducted at the community of Tarlai, Islamabad, Pakistan, in January of 2008. A structured questionnaire was used and 300 adults (age > or = 18 years) were assessed on their knowledge regarding awareness of Diabetes Mellitus, its risk factors and complications.

Detection of influenza antigen with rapid antibody-based tests after intranasal influenza vaccination (FluMist).

Rapid tests for influenza antigen detection are frequently used, but it is not known how receipt of intranasal influenza vaccine affects results of these tests. We tested healthy adults who received either intranasal or intramuscular influenza vaccine. Of the 14 intranasal vaccine recipients, 7 (50%) had a direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA) result and 2 (14%) had an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) result that was positive for influenza antigen within 7 days after vaccination.