How long after infection should I get my updated COVID shot?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Chana Davis, PhD
Experts recommend waiting 3 to 6 months after infection before getting your updated COVID-19 shot. While it’s safe to get the shot sooner, delaying by 3 to 6 months helps your body to mount a stronger immune response to the vaccine. Optimal vaccine timing also depends on your local guidelines, COVID risk profile, and COVID Read more…
What’s in childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Ingredients in childhood vaccines are safe and are also common in the environment and other household items. The end of summer is a busy time of year for parents. With health visits and school supplies on the brain, vaccines are probably the last thing on most parents’ minds. But have you ever wondered about what’s Read more…
Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Q: Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself? A: A confluence of factors are making mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue and West Nile virus) more frequent, including climate change, urbanization, and decline in the widespread use of the insecticide DDT, among other factors. You may have heard Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Experts recommend waiting 3 to 6 months after infection before getting your updated COVID-19 shot. While it’s safe to get the shot sooner, delaying by 3 to 6 months helps your body to mount a stronger immune response to the vaccine. Optimal vaccine timing also depends on your local guidelines, COVID risk profile, and COVID Read more…
What’s in childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases VaccinesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Ingredients in childhood vaccines are safe and are also common in the environment and other household items. The end of summer is a busy time of year for parents. With health visits and school supplies on the brain, vaccines are probably the last thing on most parents’ minds. But have you ever wondered about what’s Read more…
Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Q: Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself? A: A confluence of factors are making mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue and West Nile virus) more frequent, including climate change, urbanization, and decline in the widespread use of the insecticide DDT, among other factors. You may have heard Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Ingredients in childhood vaccines are safe and are also common in the environment and other household items. The end of summer is a busy time of year for parents. With health visits and school supplies on the brain, vaccines are probably the last thing on most parents’ minds. But have you ever wondered about what’s Read more…
Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself?
Infectious Diseases Staying SafeSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Q: Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself? A: A confluence of factors are making mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue and West Nile virus) more frequent, including climate change, urbanization, and decline in the widespread use of the insecticide DDT, among other factors. You may have heard Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Q: Why do cases of mosquito-borne illnesses seem to be going up? How can you protect yourself? A: A confluence of factors are making mosquito-borne illnesses (like dengue and West Nile virus) more frequent, including climate change, urbanization, and decline in the widespread use of the insecticide DDT, among other factors. You may have heard Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious Diseases
Ashley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Dear Mosquitoes, Buzz Off!
General Health Infectious DiseasesAshley Sever, MPH
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Mosquitoes are highly active this time of year, and they can cause problems beyond pesky buzzing and itchy red bumps. Cases of West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, which are both viruses spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, have been reported in the U.S. 🦟 There have been 289 West Nile Virus cases in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases VaccinesClara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID TreatmentsElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, there is a lot of COVID around right now.
COVID Variants Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
There is a lot of COVID around. Now is a good time to take extra precautions to reduce your risk and protect those around you. If you feel like a lot of people have COVID right now, you’re right. Recent estimates from wastewater data suggest over 900,000 new infections a day in the US and 1 in Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines to be rolled out in the US in September
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Updated COVID vaccines by Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax are expected to be rolled out in the US this coming September. The CDC recommends that “everyone aged 6 months and older should receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to protect against potentially serious health consequences from COVID-19 this fall and winter.” This advice also applies to Read more…
How are vaccines developed, and how do we know they are safe?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSandy Laping
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Vaccine development is regulated and monitored at every stage. A vaccine is only approved if it is deemed safe and effective, following a rigorous assessment of its benefits and risks. This ensures that you can trust vaccines offered by your healthcare professional, even those developed during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines have saved A Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
This information is up to date as of July 16, 2024 at 5 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 9 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. “…if we can’t iron out the differences between agriculture and human health… [a more severe virus is] not going to be Read more…
What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it?
Biology/Immunity Infectious Diseases VaccinesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
Q: What is immune imprinting, and should the public be worried about it? A: Don’t let statements about imprinting stop you from getting your annual vaccines for COVID and flu. Immune imprinting refers to the fact that our immune response to a vaccine (or infection) is affected by previous exposures to similar vaccines (or infections). Read more…
Should I get a COVID booster now or wait until fall?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
“I’m over 65 but otherwise healthy. When I went for my annual check up my doctor said that while a summer booster was being recommended, she thought waiting until fall was fine. So I’m confused about whether or not to get a summer dose.” -Kit from Columbus, OH For those over age 65, a “summer Read more…
Are there any updates on COVID-19 we should know about?
COVID Variants Infectious DiseasesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
A: Here is what’s new in the realm of COVID-19 right now: In a nutshell: ➡️ There is a new COVID variant family called FLiRT that may lead to an increase in cases this summer. ➡️ Current vaccines will provide some protection against FLiRT variants. ➡️ Data so far does not suggest that FLiRT variants Read more…
