Category: COVID
How COVID-19 Immunity Works at This Point in the Pandemic
(Time) When SARS-CoV-2 was a brand-new virus, it met little resistance in immune-naïve hosts—that is, us. Vaccines, boosters, and infections have increased our immunity to varying degrees. But how much protection do each of these provide at this point in the pandemic? Here’s what researchers are learning about how the human body reacts to COVID-19 […]
Dec 13, 2022
Scientists’ understanding of long covid is improving
(Economist) PODCAST Our podcast on science and technology. This week, we examine the latest research into what may be causing long covid, and ask whether the hunt for answers could shed light on other chronic conditions. SOON AFTER the pandemic began, another health crisis started to emerge. Long covid now affects millions of people around the world. […]
Dec 13, 2022
It’s Time to Wear a Mask Again, Health Experts Say
(NYT) A high-quality, well-fitting mask is your best protection against infection from the coronavirus, influenza and R.S.V. Masks are back, and, this time, they’re not just for Covid-19. A “tripledemic” of the coronavirus, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, known as R.S.V., sweeping through the United States has prompted several cities and counties, including New York City and Los […]
Dec 13, 2022
China’s Rapid Covid Reversal Sparks Whiplash as Cases Surge
(Bloomberg) Covid is rapidly spreading through Chinese households and offices after the country’s pandemic rules were unexpectedly unwound last week, sparking confusion on the ground as ill-prepared hospitals struggle to deal with a surge in cases.
Dec 12, 2022
Omicron subvariants that more easily dodge immunity are causing more than 70% of U.S. infections
(CNBC) The BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 Covid subvariants are now responsible for 68% of new cases, while the XBB subvariant is causing 4.7% of new infections. Covid infections and hospitalizations are rising after Thanksgiving, with Christmas and the New Year holidays still around the corner. These subvariants are resistant to key antibody treatments, and studies indicate […]
Dec 12, 2022
Authorities are urging indoor masking in major cities as the ‘tripledemic’ rages
(NPR) Public health officials are revisiting the topic of indoor masking, as three highly contagious respiratory viruses take hold during the holiday season. Over the past few weeks, a surge in cases of COVID, the flu and respiratory syncytial virus — known as RSV — has been sickening millions of Americans, overwhelming emergency rooms and […]
Dec 12, 2022
Feeling forgetful after COVID? Study shows the virus can affect short-term memory
(The Conversation) Although it’s well known that COVID affects the respiratory system, it’s perhaps less well known that the virus can also affect cognitive function. Many people with COVID experience a phenomenon commonly called “brain fog”, which can include problems remembering, concentrating and performing daily tasks. Brain fog can also be a symptom of long COVID, […]
Dec 6, 2022
Why the Now-Dominant BQ COVID Strains Are Cause for Concern
(MedPageToday) The latest circulating COVID-19 variants have shown greater immune escape, which will likely lead to increasing cases over the coming months, experts said. New Omicron subvariants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 together now make up more than half of all COVID cases in the U.S. (30.9% and 31.9%, respectively), according to the CDC’s COVID Data Tracker, representing […]
Dec 6, 2022
Models predict massive wave of disease and death if China lifts ‘zero COVID’ policy
(Science) Surprised and stung by protests against draconian “zero-COVID” policies, Chinese authorities are gingerly moving to ease the burden of lockdowns, quarantines, and constant testing. But 3 years into the pandemic, China shows no sign of planning a major course change. Mathematical models suggest why: The country is still ill-prepared for living with SARS-CoV-2. Easing […]
Dec 6, 2022