The hottest COVID-19 Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health Politics Topics

Running out of things to say

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 19 Mar 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The author of the newsletter is taking a break due to running out of things to say after consistent writing for a year, but shares interesting articles from other sources.
  2. The shared articles cover various topics related to Covid-19 such as the importance of data, testing failures, new testing methods like rapid screens, and the need for continued testing even with vaccines available.
  3. The post also links to a new book called 'Economics in One Virus' by Ryan Borne that takes an economic perspective on situations arising from the pandemic.

There is no such thing as no risk

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 24 Feb 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. There is no such thing as a perfectly safe event - caution is always required, and risks are unavoidable.
  2. Even with considerable precautions taken, events can still be risky - the event at issue saw 2.5% of attendees infected.
  3. Testing for COVID-19 is crucial, but flaws in testing protocols can lead to false negatives, impacting event safety measures.

The weakest link

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 08 Feb 21
🏥 Health Politics COVID-19
  1. Maintaining a Covid-Zero policy brings challenges due to the weakest link, like quarantine workers in hotels.
  2. Regular rapid testing and vaccinations for quarantine workers are crucial to prevent Covid-19 spread and lockdowns.
  3. Investing in safety measures for the weakest link, such as daily screenings and prioritized vaccinations, can mitigate costly leakages and lockdowns.

Great recent reads

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 18 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Some recent articles highlight the need for better masks for workers.
  2. Improving vaccination supply can be done with minor changes like using different syringes.
  3. Evidence suggests that schools, especially for younger children, may be able to open up with flexibility.

Science and the Policy Response

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 13 Jan 21
🔬 Science COVID-19
  1. Science heavily influenced policy-making during the Covid-19 pandemic, tracking the number of cases and playing a significant role in the global response.
  2. Recent research on Covid-19 had a substantial impact on policy-making and was highly cited by both policy-makers and other scientists.
  3. International governmental organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) played a key role in connecting policy to science, producing more impactful documents compared to national governments or think tanks.
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The Liverpool Experiment

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 08 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. A large-scale Covid-19 testing experiment was conducted in Liverpool using a combination of PCR and rapid antigen tests, impacting almost 500,000 people.
  2. Confirmatory PCR tests for positive rapid test results had poor uptake, highlighting challenges in ensuring follow-up testing.
  3. The quality of rapid tests varied, emphasizing the importance of recording and evaluating batch and test type information to identify production issues.

Eyes on Israel

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 06 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Israel's efficient vaccine distribution showcases excellent preparation and organization.
  2. Israel has a unique opportunity to provide insights into the effectiveness of vaccination against COVID-19.
  3. Israel's approach to vaccine distribution may offer hope for addressing long-term problems, such as providing vaccines to neighboring territories.

Vaccine doses ... again

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 04 Jan 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. There is a debate about the effectiveness of administering two vaccine doses versus one, with some evidence showing that a single dose could be adequate in certain situations.
  2. The timing of vaccine doses is crucial, with considerations on how to maximize the number of people vaccinated and the potential risks of delaying the second dose.
  3. Mathematical calculations play a role in determining the efficacy of first doses first strategy, but there are complexities involved, including capacity, prevalence of the virus, and the role of vaccines in reducing spread.

Looking for Covid-19 in other places

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 07 Dec 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Monitoring trends in Google searches like 'loss of smell' can give insights into Covid-19 outbreaks
  2. Analyzing unusual indicators like reviews of scented candles can provide interesting data on pandemic effects
  3. Utilizing AI and diverse data sources, like mobility data, can help forecast Covid-19 cases more accurately

Pre-emptive warnings to take care

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 02 Nov 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. NOVID app offers a different approach to COVID-19 exposure tracking by focusing on self-protection rather than just protecting others.
  2. The app allows users to prepare for potential exposure by managing their contact budget and taking preventive measures.
  3. NOVID can serve as a valuable early warning system for communities like schools or workplaces to take extra precautions and drive further information through rapid testing.

We can do better on pre-risk assessment

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 23 Oct 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Pre-risk assessment is crucial for better allocation of Covid-19 tests. Higher pre-risk means test results carry more weight.
  2. CDC's protocol for point-of-care tests at nursing homes considers pre-risk, but lacks specific numerical data. More granular information would enhance testing protocols.
  3. Contact tracing apps could be leveraged to assess pre-risk levels, aiding in more accurate test allocation without compromising privacy.

What have we learned about the coronavirus?

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 21 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The growth rate of daily deaths from COVID-19 falls rapidly within 30 days post reaching 25 cumulative deaths, a pattern observed universally.
  2. After the initial decline, the growth rate of daily deaths hovers around zero or slightly below, suggesting a steady rate of new deaths each day.
  3. Variability in growth rates of deaths among regions decreases after the initial epidemic period, stabilizing around zero, indicating similar experiences across regions.

Things left lying around

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 11 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Testing wastewater from dorms can be an effective way to manage the spread of viruses on college campuses.
  2. Health Canada is now considering approving at-home COVID-19 tests, showing a willingness to adapt during the pandemic.
  3. The UK subsidizing restaurant meals results in increased interest, showing that incentives like these can have a positive impact on the economy.

How often should you test?

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 09 Sep 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Frequent and rapid testing plays a key role in limiting the spread of viruses like COVID-19.
  2. The frequency of testing and the accuracy of the tests are crucial in determining how effectively infectious individuals can be isolated.
  3. Testing every two to three days with a moderate error rate can be more effective than testing less frequently with higher accuracy.

What if it’s worse?

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 12 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Immunity from COVID-19 is a critical assumption in policy discussions, but what if this assumption is wrong? If immunity is not guaranteed, the virus may never go away.
  2. Investing in extensive testing, especially HAVE tests, can still be valuable even if immunity or a vaccine is not a solution. Testing can help contain the spread of the virus and eventually eradicate it.
  3. The possibility of not achieving permanent immunity emphasizes the need for testing as a hedge against uncertainty. Testing, regardless of immunity status, plays a crucial role in managing the pandemic.

Smell Test Now

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 0 implied HN points • 01 Apr 20
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Around March 20, COVID-19 patients reported a loss of smell, which sparked news reports and discussions about using this symptom for screening.
  2. Google search trends for 'can't smell' and 'sense of smell' suggested a possible correlation with news reports rather than actual symptoms, warranting more detailed data analysis.
  3. Monitoring search trends for 'Anosmia' and 'Ageusia' across different countries could provide insights into how news and localized outbreaks influence public awareness of COVID-19 symptoms.

Disarm BA.5 With Immunity and Agency

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 18 Jul 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it's important to acknowledge that it's okay to not be okay and to give yourself permission to feel human emotions.
  2. The BA.5 variant is more contagious than previous Omicron subvariants, but not necessarily causing more severe disease. Vaccines still provide good protection against serious outcomes.
  3. To protect against BA.5 and future variants, focus on basic health measures, vaccination, boosters if recommended, and consider options like nasal vaccines and monoclonal antibodies.

Paxlovid is not a Panacea

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 23 May 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Paxlovid is not a one-size-fits-all solution and its effectiveness varies depending on factors like age, vaccination status, and underlying health conditions.
  2. Using Paxlovid in vaccinated individuals is still being studied, but it has shown anecdotal improvement in symptoms for some high-risk patients.
  3. Some vaccinated patients have experienced a rebound of COVID symptoms after finishing a course of Paxlovid, prompting further research and caution in prescribing.

Mental Health Matters

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 02 May 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Mental health is important in everyday life and should be nurtured alongside physical health
  2. Amid COVID-19, focusing on strategies proven effective and protecting vulnerable populations is crucial
  3. Beyond the pandemic, it's essential to address broader health concerns, take care of basic needs, and work on reclaiming aspects of life that have slipped away

Manage BA.2—And Our Expectations

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 18 Apr 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The Omicron BA.2 variant is highly contagious but generally not causing more severe illness than previous versions in vaccinated and boosted individuals. Symptoms can range from mild cold-like to more severe, and testing is crucial to differentiate between COVID and other common illnesses.
  2. Rapid antigen tests are effective in detecting contagious levels of the virus, and isolation guidelines recommend staying isolated for at least 5 days after a positive test, preferably until a negative test is obtained.
  3. Vaccination, boosting where eligible, staying home when sick, and seeking medical advice are crucial steps in managing COVID. Understanding that exposure may be inevitable, a balanced approach to precautions is recommended to protect oneself and others.

Boost Your Immunity

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 04 Apr 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The FDA authorized a second booster shot for specific groups, emphasizing individual responsibility in COVID protection.
  2. Data supports high effectiveness of COVID vaccines in reducing hospitalization rates, especially with more booster shots.
  3. Consulting a primary care provider for personalized advice on receiving additional booster shots is crucial for making informed decisions.

Prep for BA.2

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 21 Mar 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. BA.2 is more contagious than BA.1, making it easier to catch.
  2. BA.2 does not cause more severe disease compared to BA.1, so if infected, outcomes may be similar to previous Omicron infections.
  3. BA.2 is not resistant to vaccines for hospitalization and death, offering continued protection from severe outcomes.

We Are Not Done

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 14 Mar 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. High school and college students are experiencing mixed emotions about removing masks, ranging from excitement to worry and empathy for others.
  2. As mask mandates are lifted, individuals are responsible for assessing their own risks and decisions about wearing masks.
  3. Key lessons learned in the age of Omicron include the evolving role of vaccines, the importance of ventilation, the legitimacy of infection-acquired immunity, and the increasing population immunity compared to last year.

Take It From a Pediatrician

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 15 Feb 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. As COVID-19 restrictions relax, pediatricians are sharing optimistic views on the progress made, including the availability of effective vaccines and the decreasing severity of the virus over time.
  2. Children who have recovered from COVID-19 tend to develop lasting immunity, with studies showing a strong immune response, even greater than adults, in some cases.
  3. The potential harms of prolonged mask wearing on children's development, combined with the psychological impacts of the pandemic, highlight the importance of considering the overall well-being of children when making decisions about COVID-19 precautions.

Own Your Fear; Don’t Capitulate to it

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 25 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Recognize and face your fears instead of giving in to them. Trust facts and balance risks for sound decision-making.
  2. Anxiety during a global crisis is normal. It's important to calibrate fear to actual risks and consider seeking help if anxiety interferes with daily life.
  3. Talking out your thoughts and fact-checking internal narratives can help manage anxiety and maintain self-awareness.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up if You’re Infected, Exposed and/or Confused.

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 18 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Experiencing COVID symptoms after vaccination is common, but most people have milder symptoms and a lower risk of severe illness thanks to vaccines and boosters.
  2. Dealing with COVID involves medical challenges like fear and treatment options, logistical challenges like testing and isolation, and emotional challenges like guilt and shame.
  3. Getting COVID isn't a moral failure; it's a part of being human. We need to show empathy, self-compassion, and accept that exposures may happen despite precautions.

Replace Fear with Facts

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 11 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Fear-based messaging can be harmful by causing anxiety, promoting unhealthy behaviors, and impairing decision-making.
  2. Medical professionals should focus on providing fact-based information, nuanced guidance, and empowering patients to make informed decisions.
  3. Doctors in the public eye should remain humble, aware of their biases, and prioritize delivering accurate medical information rather than sensationalism.

Giddy Up for Omicron

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 04 Jan 22
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Omicron is generally mild for vaccinated individuals and the vaccines are effective in preventing severe illness.
  2. Reducing isolation period to 5 days is scientifically sound, promotes normalcy, and is beneficial for mental health.
  3. Kids are more likely to get COVID-19 outside of school, and keeping them in school is important for social, emotional, and educational well-being.

Acceptance Can Be the Birthplace of Change

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 11 Oct 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Acceptance is crucial for initiating change - understanding what can and can't be controlled is key.
  2. In dealing with the impacts of the pandemic, recalibrating our risk assessment and embracing acceptance is a valuable approach.
  3. It's important to stay informed and proactive regarding health measures like flu shots and upcoming vaccines for children.

Boost Your Vaccine Confidence

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 27 Sep 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The CDC recommends booster shots for specific groups at higher risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19 breakthrough infections, but the decision is complex and based on evolving data.
  2. Recommendations for Moderna and J & J vaccine recipients are still pending, but it's suggested that high-risk individuals consider a third dose, potentially even from a different type of vaccine for additional protection.
  3. The focus should be on trusting the existing vaccines and immune systems to manage COVID-19 risks, rather than solely relying on boosters to eliminate the pandemic threat entirely.

Protect Kids From Delta

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 09 Aug 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Delta variant is more contagious, leading to more COVID-19 cases, even among vaccinated individuals, but breakthrough cases are generally mild
  2. Vaccinated people do not currently need booster shots, and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine shows promising protection against severe disease or death from Delta
  3. Children are generally at lower risk from Delta variant, but unvaccinated kids with underlying health conditions need extra protection measures like being surrounded by vaccinated adults and staying home when sick

Unpack CDC’s New Guidance

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 02 Aug 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. CDC now recommends masks indoors for vaccinated people in areas with high transmission risk
  2. Vaccines offer strong protection against severe disease and death from COVID-19, even with the Delta variant
  3. It's not clear if vaccinated asymptomatic people can easily transmit the virus, more data is needed

Dig Into Delta

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 26 Jul 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Vaccinations remain effective against severe COVID-19 cases, even with the Delta variant.
  2. Vaccinated individuals may still choose to wear masks indoors based on personal risk factors or local infection rates.
  3. Vaccinated people do not significantly drive the spread of the Delta variant; continued vaccination efforts are crucial to combat the pandemic.

Recap and Regroup

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 19 Jul 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Taking a break is important for mental health and well-being. Delegating tasks and slowing down can help with burnout.
  2. COVID-19 is still a significant concern. Vaccination remains crucial for protection, especially against the delta variant.
  3. Focusing on holistic health is key. Emphasizing mental health, relationships, and healthy lifestyle choices can lead to overall well-being.

Take a Pregnant Pause

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 08 Jul 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging due to the risks involved. It is essential to weigh the benefits of getting vaccinated.
  2. Data on pregnant individuals who received the COVID vaccine shows reassuring safety outcomes for both the person and the pregnancy.
  3. The mRNA vaccine technology has been in production for a decade and is safe, providing a crucial tool for protecting pregnant and breastfeeding patients.

Demystify Delta

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 17 Jun 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. The mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna work well against the Delta variant, providing strong protection from severe disease and death.
  2. People who received the J & J vaccine may benefit from a single mRNA vaccine dose as a booster, based on similar mechanisms of action with the AstraZeneca vaccine.
  3. It's vital to encourage vaccination, remain calm if fully vaccinated, and put the risk of COVID-19 into perspective by evaluating evolving data and minimizing fear.

Vax to Relax

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 10 Jun 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Parenting involves balancing restrictions and freedoms for children.
  2. Fall 2020 was a challenging time for kids due to the pandemic, and there are considerations about reopening schools in a safe manner.
  3. It's important to shift from a zero-risk approach to relative-risk-reduction mode when dealing with COVID-19 to address the broader needs of individuals and populations.

Zoom Out

Are You Okay? • 0 implied HN points • 07 Jun 21
🏥 Health & Wellness COVID-19
  1. Risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 in children is low and decreasing.
  2. Vaccine adverse events are rare, treatable, and outweigh the risks of COVID-19.
  3. Perspective is key - it's important to weigh the tiny risks and benefits of vaccination versus the disease.