The hottest COVID-19 Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health Politics Topics

Which Arm Should You Get Your COVID-19 Booster In?

LIL Science • 727 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The arm in which you receive your COVID-19 booster might make a difference in your immune response.
  2. Getting the booster in the same arm as the previous dose could lead to higher neutralizing antibodies and specific T cells.
  3. Memory B cells may persist in the draining lymph node, potentially aiding quicker immune response upon re-exposure to the antigen.

Next phase, next stage, next craze, next wave

Logging the World • 538 implied HN points • 02 Dec 23
🔬 Science COVID-19
  1. Understanding exponential growth in infection rates can help predict future COVID trends.
  2. Individual growth rates of different strains impact the overall daily growth rate, following a weighted average principle.
  3. Market share of strains, not just reaching a specific percentage threshold, influences overall infection growth.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 11, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Covid hospital admissions are low and stable, indicating that the winter surge has mostly ended. This is a good sign for managing the virus.
  2. A Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting soon, targeting older adults and those with weakened immune systems to help keep them safer.
  3. Deaths from Covid have significantly decreased compared to last year, and the overall numbers continue to go down, which is encouraging news.

Friday Q&A: assessing COVID risk; Ozempic/Mounjaro; booster shots; & CBD gummies for sleep

Are You Okay? • 459 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. It's important to balance the risks associated with COVID-19 with the desire for social interaction and living a fulfilling life.
  2. Protecting against serious COVID outcomes involves getting vaccinated and optimizing health, while preventing infection means avoiding sick individuals and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces.
  3. Decisions regarding COVID risk mitigation should be personalized, taking into account individual vulnerabilities and risk tolerance, and it's advised to consult with a healthcare provider for tailored advice.
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Hospitals, BA.2.86, schools, Twitter, teaching

Logging the World • 637 implied HN points • 24 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. COVID optimism might be on the rise based on recent data trends like the BA.2.86 growth rates and hospital investigations.
  2. Studies show a concerning decline in mental health among school children during the pandemic, indicating the need for better support.
  3. Personal experiences such as being locked out of social media and starting a large teaching session can affect one's daily routine.

Crime and Covid Set up the Next Bank Crisis

cryptoeconomy • 609 implied HN points • 15 Apr 23
💰 Finance COVID-19
  1. Major retail chains closing stores due to crime and Covid may lead to a bank crisis
  2. Big cities experienced increased crime rates post-pandemic, causing people to move out
  3. Empty office spaces and store closures across major cities could significantly impact banks and financial systems

Friday Q&A: silent spread of COVID; full body MRI; Ambien risks; & quantifying risk

Are You Okay? • 599 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Some studies suggest that asymptomatic individuals with COVID-19 may have low viral infectivity, meaning they are less likely to spread the virus.
  2. Having a full-body MRI has benefits like early cancer detection, but it may not always be necessary for everyone and should be evaluated based on individual health considerations.
  3. Ensure to stay informed about current health topics and consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice and guidance.

Friday Q&A: COVID, masks, boosters & testing

Are You Okay? • 599 implied HN points • 08 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. High-grade, well-fitted, consistently-worn masks can help protect the individual against infection, but mask mandates have not shown to slow the spread of COVID.
  2. The Cochrane review published in January 2023 concluded that wearing masks 'probably makes little or no difference' to COVID outcomes on a population level.
  3. While masks can offer personal protection, mask mandates in 2023 may not be effective without evidence to support their impact and considering they are not a harm-free intervention.

Self-indulgent anniversary post

Logging the World • 518 implied HN points • 04 Nov 23
📰 News COVID-19
  1. The author reflects on their first year on Substack, the experience of a post going viral, and their content on COVID and other topics.
  2. The post discusses the author's favorite non-COVID topics including a clever idea, an education policy, and the joys of walking.
  3. The article highlights the impact of a post on Dominic Cummings boosting views, emphasizes the unpredictable nature of virality, and teases future discussions on the UK COVID Inquiry.

The FL vaccine study used by the surgeon general was altered

Science Forever • 557 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo used an altered study to support his views on COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, but the data he referred to did not compare the vaccine risks to the risks of COVID-19.
  2. Challenging scientific consensus should go through established processes like peer review, not by omitting data or spreading misinformation in op-eds and white papers.
  3. The scientific community needs to find ways to counter anti-science movements that exploit confusion and established processes to push political agendas.

Study Shows Lack of Link Between High BMI and COVID Deaths

Weight and Healthcare • 698 implied HN points • 22 Mar 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Some studies rushed during the pandemic suggested a link between high BMI and COVID deaths, but a recent umbrella review found serious quality concerns with these conclusions.
  2. The study focused on the quality and certainty of the evidence regarding the association between high BMI and COVID mortality.
  3. Healthcare inequalities can impact outcomes for higher-weight individuals, and research often pathologizes body size without fully considering all confounding factors.

Summertime Blues

Logging the World • 518 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Lockdown restrictions have mostly been dismantled in the UK, returning to normalcy post-COVID.
  2. It's important to allow young people to enjoy festivals and parties after putting aspects of their lives on hold during the pandemic, despite public health concerns.
  3. Language around illness as punishment can lead to harmful judgments and biases in healthcare and society.

Friday Q&A: More COVID Queries!

Are You Okay? • 499 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Individuals may receive conflicting advice on COVID boosters due to factors like age, health conditions, and immunity status. Consult with a healthcare provider to assess personal risk and benefits.
  2. Protection against severe COVID relies on T cells activated by past vaccines or infections, even if it has been a while since the last shot. Booster shots are especially beneficial for high-risk groups.
  3. Long-lasting symptoms like voice changes post-COVID recovery may occur. Always seek medical advice for persistent symptoms to determine if they are temporary or need further evaluation.

Brief bonus COVID update

Logging the World • 498 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. There is a new COVID variant called XBB.1.16, but it may not be as alarming as headlines suggest, with a modest transmission advantage in comparison to previous variants.
  2. The severity of the XBB.1.16 variant is not significantly higher than previous waves, and it currently has a low presence in the UK.
  3. Overall, the impact of the XBB.1.16 variant is expected to be relatively small, akin to ripples rather than a major wave like previous dominant variants.

Scripps Institute’s Kristian Andersen Cannot Tell the Truth, But You Already Knew That

The DisInformation Chronicle • 690 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics COVID-19
  1. Kristian Andersen, a researcher at the Scripps Institute, has been accused of lying in his statements to Congress about COVID-19 origins. His past actions have raised questions about his credibility.
  2. Emails show that Andersen initially thought the COVID-19 virus might be genetically engineered, but changed his stance after discussions with influential figures like Tony Fauci. This shift has led to scrutiny over his motivations.
  3. The recent House Select Committee report suggests possible attempts to cover up the true origins of the virus. Andersen is accused of misleading the public and Congress, which could potentially lead to legal consequences.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 4, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 139 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Covid case numbers are low in England, and hospital admissions are stable. This shows that the winter surge is over, but we still need to be cautious.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting for older people and those with weakened immune systems, highlighting the importance of vaccinations.
  3. Changes in Covid testing mean fewer routine tests will be available, but Covid hospital admissions will still help track how the virus is spreading in the community.

FDA Admits COVID Vaccines Likely Led To Deaths Of Multiple Children

Unmasked • 46 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. COVID vaccines have been linked to serious health risks, including the possibility of causing deaths in children. It's important for families to stay informed about vaccine safety.
  2. Public health measures, especially mask-wearing, have become common in daily life despite debates on their effectiveness. Many people still follow these mandates without questioning them.
  3. New leadership in health organizations is working to address past mistakes in handling COVID-19. This includes recognizing the differences in risk levels between age groups and the role of natural immunity.

The 78 per cent solution

Logging the World • 378 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. A recent study found heart abnormalities in 78 out of 100 people who recovered from COVID within 2-3 months, but this data comes from a sample of the sickest patients which might not be representative of the general population
  2. The Sports Illustrated claim of 78% heart abnormalities risk may not be applicable to current conditions due to the study predating vaccines and omicron, raising concerns about drawing conclusions from outdated research
  3. It's crucial to consider the context and representative sample when interpreting statistics, like looking at more recent data from sources like the UK Office for National Statistics to understand the risks of Long COVID

The plot thickens

Logging the World • 378 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Understanding the threat level of a COVID variant depends on its market share and growth rate, which both influence its impact on overall spread.
  2. A variant's position on a graph based on market share and growth rate can indicate potential future trouble - ones in the top right corner can pose significant problems.
  3. Current observations suggest a positive outlook with low and decreasing hospital numbers, along with no imminent variants posing a threat in the next few weeks.

Return of the mask?

Logging the World • 358 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Masks may help reduce COVID spread, but their impact could be limited. Calls for widespread mask-wearing may not significantly alter infection rates and could be less effective than expected.
  2. Clarity in messaging is crucial. Different perspectives within organizations like Independent SAGE can lead to confusion in public health recommendations. Consistent and clear communication is essential for effective response.
  3. Temporary return to mask-wearing might not have a significant long-term impact. Adherence to such measures could be short-lived and may not prevent exponential growth unless sustained over time.

URGENT: mRNA Covid jabs should NEVER have been approved for children or young adults

Unreported Truths • 44 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. mRNA Covid vaccines may have serious side effects for children, and these concerns were known during the trials. It's important to be aware of these risks when considering vaccination for young ones.
  2. Some deaths, including a child's, occurred during vaccine trials, but this information was not fully shared with the public for years. Transparency in clinical trials is crucial for public safety.
  3. Data presented by vaccine manufacturers wasn't always accurate, leading to misleading conclusions about their effectiveness and safety for kids. Parents should approach such information with caution.

Base! How low can you go?

Logging the World • 338 implied HN points • 06 May 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The concern now is about the rising baseline of COVID infections, not just the peak waves.
  2. The occupancy of COVID beds has decreased since the Omicron variant, with fewer 'for COVID' patients compared to 'with' patients.
  3. The picture of COVID trends shows various spikes with falling peaks, hinting at potential further decreases in primary beds occupied in the upcoming weeks.

February 7, 2024 - Not So Fast

Frank’s Alabama COVID Newsletter • 157 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The South region in the United States saw a significant rise in Covid viral activity levels, particularly in new hospital admissions.
  2. The dominant strain of Covid in the US is the JN.1 variant, causing 93% of new cases by late January 2024.
  3. Updated Covid-19 vaccines provide 54% protection against symptomatic infection, showing a relative effectiveness compared to the flu vaccine.

Chartbook 237: Whither China? (4): Zero-Covid myths, dynamic clearing & the Omicron crisis of 2022

Chartbook • 1702 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics COVID-19
  1. The zero-Covid policy in China was not always about sustained repression, but involved dynamic clearing to contain outbreaks.
  2. The economic impact of China's Covid policy was influenced more by global demand and housing market than by the lockdowns.
  3. The sudden abandonment of zero-Covid in China in 2022 resulted in a significant projected death toll, showcasing the complexity and consequences of the regime's decisions.

What a COVID-19 Food Fight Says About Scientific Discourse

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1089 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🔬 Science COVID-19
  1. One strategy in science partisanship is to associate opponents with unpopular political figures to discredit their views without engaging with the substance.
  2. Another strategy is to argue that certain debates are harmful to scientific goals, leading to avoiding critique that might impact funding or research opportunities.
  3. Partisanship in science can also involve associating legitimate arguments with totally unacceptable views, like labeling individuals with terms that discredit their opinions.

COVID, mRNA Tech & the Origins of SARS-CoV-2: My experience and evolving views

Mind & Matter • 157 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Early in the pandemic, the mRNA technology in vaccines was considered a promising tool to stop the spread of COVID-19
  2. As new variants emerged, questions arose about the effectiveness of the mRNA vaccines and the need for updates to combat evolving strains
  3. Debates continue around the origins of SARS-CoV-2, the efficacy of vaccines, and the potential side effects of mRNA shots

A Brand New Study on PCR-Negative COVID-Like Illness Suggests It is Often... COVID!

Harnessing the Power of Nutrients • 1258 implied HN points • 25 Feb 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. PCR-negative COVID-like illness can often turn out to be actual COVID, rendering some studies and vaccine trial efficacy questionable.
  2. A significant percentage of PCR-negative COVID-like illnesses without alternative diagnoses may actually be COVID cases.
  3. Data on PCR-negative cases questioning the efficacy of vaccines and highlighting the need for a better understanding and classification of COVID-like illnesses.

Ralph Baric, the world's top coronavirus researcher, discussed "human adaptation" of coronaviruses with the CIA before Covid began

Unreported Truths • 42 implied HN points • 12 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics COVID-19
  1. Dr. Ralph Baric has significant connections with U.S. intelligence agencies, discussing coronavirus research with them before the outbreak of Covid-19.
  2. Baric's partnership with the Wuhan Institute of Virology raises questions about the lab's safety and the origins of the virus.
  3. Despite being central to controversial research, Baric has largely avoided public scrutiny or accountability regarding his work and its implications.

UK Government Agency Is Refusing To Release Data On COVID Vaccines And Excess Deaths

Unmasked • 37 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Governments pushed hard for COVID rules like masks and vaccinations, often ignoring or downplaying any opposition. They kept saying vaccines were 100% effective and that only unvaccinated people were at risk.
  2. Despite many claims being proven wrong over time, the push for vaccinations and boosters never slowed down. There was always a focus on getting everyone vaccinated, no matter what the data said.
  3. Some governments are now refusing to share data about vaccine effects and deaths, which raises concerns about transparency and accountability in health decisions.

Hawaii "Keep Vaccines Optional" Rally

Who is Robert Malone • 13 implied HN points • 10 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. The West Coast Health Alliance continues to endorse, promote, and even mandate widespread childhood COVID-19 vaccination despite claims of risk of death and disability in children.
  2. A "Keep Vaccines Optional" rally took place in Hilo (Big Island) on January 9, 2026, and a video of the address is available.
  3. Coverage of the rally is published publicly as part of a reader-supported newsletter that encourages sharing and subscriptions.

We Deserve Answers

Michael Shellenberger • 1462 implied HN points • 17 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics COVID-19
  1. The COVID-19 virus likely leaked from China's Wuhan Institute of Virology laboratory.
  2. The first three people sickened by the virus were scientists experimenting with coronaviruses in Wuhan.
  3. US government officials, including the FBI and Anthony Fauci, must provide answers on COVID-19's origins.

Eating out, helping out

Logging the World • 239 implied HN points • 07 Jun 23
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The UK's Eat Out to Help Out scheme of August 2020 is under scrutiny in connection with the COVID public inquiry.
  2. Data suggests that admissions were shrinking during the Eat Out to Help Out period, and growth started after the scheme ended.
  3. It's crucial for inquiries to consider instances when warnings were ignored but outcomes weren't catastrophic, to avoid future overreactions.