COVID policies are becoming more similar to flu policies, such as annual reformulation of vaccines and commercialization of tests and treatments.
Population immunity is making COVID more flu-like with decreased hospitalization and mortality rates, quicker symptom development, and potential for less severe illness, especially with vaccination. [ more ]
We need to do more to ensure older adultsincluding those living in long-term care facilitiesare up to date on recommended vaccines
Older adults in long-term care facilities need to be better informed and facilitated to get recommended vaccines for respiratory viral diseases like influenza, COVID, and RSV. [ more ]
Who's dying now? Here's how recent COVID deaths compare to the early months of the pandemic in California
COVID demographics in California have shifted over four years, with older and White individuals now more affected, demonstrating decreased deaths and increased immunity. [ more ]
Cameroon Starts World's First Malaria Vaccine Program For Children
Cameroon is the first country in Africa to roll out routine vaccinations for a new malaria vaccine.
The vaccine, known as Mosquirix, is only about 30% effective and requires four doses, but it is expected to dramatically reduce severe infections and hospitalizations. [ more ]
Northwell Health-GoHealth to Make Reimbursements for COVID-19 Vaccines
Northwell Health-GoHealth charged 731 patients in New York for COVID-19 vaccines, which were supposed to be administered at no out-of-pocket cost.
The New York Attorney General's office conducted an investigation and found that Northwell-GoHealth improperly billed patients a total of $14,996.05 in fees. [ more ]
Explainer: When the first RSV vaccines will be available in Ireland as cases double in a week
Cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have doubled in a week, leading to recommendations for parents to 'cocoon' infants and keep them away from large crowds.
The first RSV vaccines are now available and have been recommended for use by immunization experts in Ireland.
There are three vaccines available, including a long-acting monoclonal antibody for infants, and a vaccine for pregnant mothers to provide passive protection to their infants. [ more ]
Shots can be scary and painful for kids. One doctor has a plan to end needle phobia
New parents often struggle with the distress of their child receiving vaccines and the fear and pain associated with the needles.
Needle pokes may be children's biggest source of pain in the healthcare system, causing some children to develop a fear of medical procedures. [ more ]
The Far Right and Far Left Meet Over Wellness Conspiracy Theories
Anti-science conspiracy theories are spreading beyond COVID-19, including beliefs about sunscreen, cancer causes, and vaccines for dogs.
A new alliance between New Age spirituality and right-wing anti-science activists, known as conspirituality, is contributing to the spread of these beliefs.
Conspiracies are fueled by a distrust of authority, misinformation, and the merging of wellness and far-right ideologies. [ more ]
Climate Change Behind Africa Cholera Surge, Top Health Officials Say
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention attributes the worst cholera outbreak in three years to climate change.
Cholera outbreaks have swept across more than a dozen African countries, causing hundreds of deaths and stressing already fragile health systems.
Shortages of cholera vaccines are hampering efforts to contain the disease, with Africa needing as many as 80 million doses but only having access to 15 to 18 million doses globally. [ more ]
Cape Verde becomes fourth African country to eliminate malaria
Cape Verde becomes the fourth African country to eliminate malaria.
The country's success is attributed to free treatment and testing, surveillance of mosquito breeding sites, and commitment from the government and people. [ more ]
The JN.1 variant of COVID-19 is rapidly spreading and represents a significant portion of cases, but vaccines and treatments are still effective against it.
Hospitalizations for COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are increasing, and levels of virus in wastewater are high, indicating the spread of infections. [ more ]
Unvaccinated and Vulnerable: Children Drive Surge in Deadly Outbreaks
Large outbreaks of diseases that primarily kill children are spreading around the world due to disruptions to health systems during the Covid-19 pandemic.
By midway through this year, 47 countries were reporting serious measles outbreaks, compared with 16 countries in June 2020.
Children who missed their vaccine shots account for nearly half of all child deaths from vaccine-preventable illnesses. [ more ]