The hottest Infectious Diseases Substack posts right now

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A Covid Nasal Vaccine Update

Ground Truths • 10148 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Clinical Trials Policy Infectious Diseases
  1. There are now 6 different nasal vaccines in clinical trials in the US aimed at preventing COVID-19 and blocking its transmission. These vaccines are promising because they might work better than traditional shots.
  2. Two major challenges facing these new vaccines are the low current levels of the virus, which make it harder to gather data from trials, and the uncertainty about ongoing government support for these projects.
  3. Successful nasal vaccines could provide a convenient way to protect people from COVID-19, but it will take time to find out if they really work well in humans.

Outbreak Outlook - National - March 3

Force of Infection • 110 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Disease Control Public Health Infectious Diseases Health Policy Vaccination
  1. Influenza-like illness is declining, which is good news for everyone, especially parents. Although rates are still above the national baseline, both children and adults are seeing fewer doctor visits for flu symptoms.
  2. COVID-19 activity remains low with a decrease in hospitalizations and emergency department visits. Most states are reporting stable or decreasing cases.
  3. Norovirus rates are still very high and have been consistent since December. It's affecting many people, particularly in the Midwest, so it's important to take precautions.

The Complex Adaptive Landscape Created by SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines Shows Us Why Evolution Will Not Allow Effective mRNA Vaccines Against mRNA Viruses, Part 1.

Popular Rationalism • 574 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Immunology
  1. mRNA vaccines face big challenges because of how fast RNA viruses can change. It's unlikely they'll be able to completely eliminate the virus over time.
  2. These vaccines can push viruses to evolve in ways that make them escape detection and survive better. This means the virus can keep changing and might even become more dangerous.
  3. Natural immunity, from getting the virus instead of a vaccine, can be broader and may help prevent newer variants. This shows how different immune responses can affect how the virus evolves.

Yes, Wipe Down Surfaces. No, Don't Hoard Cleaning Products. Try HOCl.

OK Doomer • 141 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology
  1. It's important to wipe down surfaces to prevent the spread of germs, especially when illnesses like the flu are on the rise.
  2. Instead of hoarding cleaning products, try using hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a simpler and effective germ killer.
  3. The flu season is currently very severe, even worse than COVID-19 in some cases, so taking precautions is essential for safety.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Feb 17

Force of Infection • 152 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Infectious Diseases Vaccination Healthcare policy Disease outbreaks
  1. Flu season is very severe this year, especially affecting young children, with many doctor visits for flu symptoms.
  2. COVID-19 cases are still around but are currently lower than flu cases. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 have slightly decreased recently.
  3. There have been notable outbreaks, like measles in Texas and human cases of bird flu in Nevada, showing the need for ongoing health monitoring.
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A historic flu season

Force of Infection • 191 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Infectious Diseases Health data Health trends
  1. Flu activity is increasing, with outpatient visits for flu-like symptoms reaching 7.8%. This shows that more people are getting sick and needing medical attention.
  2. This flu season is hitting all age groups hard, with high severity reported among children, adults, and older adults. It’s a tough time for many families right now.
  3. Emergency department visits for flu symptoms in children have been noticeably high, making it crucial for parents to stay alert for signs of illness. Hospitals are also seeing more severe cases than in recent years.

The Quest for Universal Flu Vaccines

Asimov Press • 354 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Infectious Diseases Immunology Pandemic Preparedness
  1. Current flu vaccines only work about 40% of the time and need to be updated every year. Scientists are trying to create a 'universal' flu vaccine that could offer better protection for a longer time.
  2. Viruses like the flu change quickly, which makes it hard for existing vaccines to keep up. Researchers are working on new methods to make vaccines that can recognize and fight many different strains of the virus.
  3. More than 200 new flu vaccine ideas are being tested, including ones that use nanoparticles or are delivered through the nose. The hope is to come up with a vaccine that can last several years and protect against various flu types.

Pandemics Don't Wait. These Plants Could Save Your Life.

OK Doomer • 96 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Herbal Medicine Preventive Care Natural remedies Infectious Diseases
  1. Plants can help protect us from infections, especially during pandemics. They're a natural alternative when vaccines and treatments are hard to access.
  2. Some plant compounds work really well against illnesses, sometimes even as good as popular medications like Tamiflu.
  3. It's important to use these plant supplements correctly and talk to a doctor if you're already on medication. They are not meant for long-term use and should be taken when you might be exposed to illness.

We are likely at peak season

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1384 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Right now, many people are getting sick, and it seems like we are in the peak season for respiratory illnesses. The usual patterns we see are pretty much the same as before the pandemic.
  2. Flu cases are very high but appear to be slowing down. However, we might still face more waves of flu with different strains hitting later in the winter.
  3. Covid-19 cases are increasing, but they are lower than in past winters. Vaccination and past infections have helped build immunity, which is why this winter seems milder.

More of your H5N1 questions answered

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1263 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Disease Control Vaccination policy Infectious Diseases
  1. H5N1 is mostly spreading through contact with sick animals and surfaces. If it mutates, it could spread like COVID-19, mostly through the air.
  2. The U.S. hasn't started vaccinating farm workers against H5N1 because severe cases are rare and vaccines can have side effects. They focus on treating sick workers instead.
  3. Testing for H5N1 is ongoing in the U.S., with a system in place to check flu samples. It's important to stay informed about any changes in flu severity or new cases.

Up, up, and away

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1530 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Disease Prevention
  1. Influenza-like illnesses are on the rise in the U.S., which means more people are getting sick. It's not peak season yet, but it's a good idea to wear a mask when traveling.
  2. The flu is spreading quickly, especially the Flu A strain. Vaccination rates are lower this year, which may lead to more severe cases, so getting vaccinated is still encouraged.
  3. Covid-19 cases are increasing gradually, with new variants making it easier to catch. As we head into winter and holiday gatherings, it's wise to get vaccinated to stay protected.

Covid Situation Report: Jul 18, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 279 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Healthcare policy Infectious Diseases COVID-19 updates
  1. Covid cases are rising again in England, especially among older people. This suggests that the virus is still active and not just a seasonal illness.
  2. Hospital admissions for Covid are also increasing and approaching the levels seen during last winter's peak. This means the healthcare system could face more pressure soon.
  3. Despite fewer deaths from Covid compared to last year, there has been a recent increase in fatalities. It's crucial to stay cautious and follow health guidelines to minimize risks.

Duke health's 2025 policy would ban an 11 year old kid from visiting his sick or dying father

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 141 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Health Policy Medical Ethics Healthcare access Infectious Diseases
  1. Duke's new visitor policy can stop an 11-year-old from seeing a sick parent, which seems unfair. It's strange to think an age difference of just one year can change something so serious.
  2. The rules made by Duke don't seem to be based on solid evidence, making them feel illogical and hard to understand. A 13-year-old can visit, but not an 11-year-old, which doesn't make sense.
  3. There's a concern that this policy will cause emotional pain for families who can't visit their sick loved ones. Many believe hospitals should have better, data-driven policies to prevent such situations.

Masks work, our comprehensive review has found

Independent SAGE continues • 639 implied HN points • 22 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Infectious Diseases Healthcare policy
  1. Masks help reduce the spread of respiratory diseases, including Covid-19, when worn correctly and consistently.
  2. N95 respirators are more effective than medical or cloth masks, especially in healthcare settings.
  3. Political beliefs and misinformation can affect how people view mask-wearing, but it's important for public health and safety.

The Dose (December 6)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1002 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology
  1. Getting vaccinated for Covid-19 at the right time can make a big difference. If you haven't had Covid recently, fall is a good time for your shot.
  2. The flu vaccine is important and does not give you the flu. It reduces severe cases, and many misunderstandings about it need to be cleared up.
  3. HPV vaccinations are really effective and can significantly lower the risk of cervical cancer in young women. This shows how important vaccines are for public health.

The Forgotten Lessons Of Infectious Disease Control

¡Do Not Panic! • 1572 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Infectious Diseases Public Health Vaccines Preventive measures Epidemiology
  1. Public health gains against infectious diseases have always been fought for and achieved in a social context, not just through medicine.
  2. Clean air and water have been crucial in reducing disease outbreaks throughout history.
  3. Vaccines and treatments should be the last line of defense in public health, not the first.

It's peak flu season

Force of Infection • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Disease Control Epidemiology Health Policy Infectious Diseases
  1. It's peak flu season, and there's been a significant rise in flu cases lately. Young children are getting hit the hardest with more doctor visits due to influenza-like illness.
  2. Covid-19 cases are also increasing after a slow start, with many locations showing high virus levels. It's important to stay updated on trends as they can change rapidly.
  3. RSV activity is up, but this year seems to be less severe than usual. Overall, it's crucial to take precautions like masking, as multiple respiratory illnesses are spreading.

Covid levels remain low but new variants are coming, as is bird flu

Independent SAGE continues • 499 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Pandemic Preparedness Vaccination
  1. Covid levels are currently low in the UK, but new variants are expected to emerge soon. We need to stay alert as these variants could cause more infections.
  2. There's growing concern about bird flu as it spreads among animals and may jump to humans. Health experts worry this could lead to the next pandemic.
  3. It's important to prepare for future outbreaks by improving vaccines, treatments, and surveillance systems based on lessons learned from Covid.

The Dose (October 18)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 883 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Food Safety Epidemiology
  1. Currently, levels of Covid-19, flu, and RSV are low, which is a good time to get your vaccines.
  2. A recall of over 11.7 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat is happening due to detected Listeria bacteria, so stay cautious.
  3. In California, H5N1 bird flu is spreading among dairy farms, but the overall risk to the public is still low.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Dec 23

Force of Infection • 85 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Healthcare policy Disease Prevention Health Education
  1. Flu season is picking up, with more people visiting doctors for symptoms like fever and cough. Younger kids are seeing higher rates of flu, but older adults face the biggest risks.
  2. COVID-19 is on the rise again, especially in the Midwest, as wastewater and test positivity rates increase. People should stay cautious during the holidays.
  3. RSV cases are also climbing, with infants and older adults being especially at risk. It's important to be careful during gatherings with people of different ages.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 6, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Epidemiology Vaccination Infectious Diseases Healthcare policy
  1. Covid positivity rates are rising, especially among older people, but hospital admissions remain stable and low. It’s important to stay cautious.
  2. Older individuals face a higher risk of being hospitalized or dying from Covid. It's crucial to get vaccinated, especially for those over 75 and immunocompromised.
  3. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is ongoing, but vaccination rates are slowing. People should check their eligibility and consider getting their booster before the end of June.

Covid Situation Report: May 30, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Covid positivity rates in England have recently peaked and are starting to decline, indicating that this small wave of Covid is likely over.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is doing well, with over 3.6 million doses given, but many immunocompromised individuals still need better vaccine coverage.
  3. A new variant called KP.2 is spreading, but it doesn't seem to be significantly more effective than other existing variants at this time.

Part 2: Answering reader questions on H5N1

Force of Infection • 38 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Food Safety Preventive measures
  1. H5N1 mostly spreads through close contact with infected animals, which means people who work with animals are at higher risk.
  2. The virus can survive on surfaces for varying amounts of time, which can affect how we control infection spread.
  3. Currently, there's no evidence that H5N1 spreads from person to person, but there's a concern it might someday gain that ability.

Outbreak Outlook - Dec 2

Force of Infection • 108 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Health Policy Food Safety
  1. Flu cases are increasing, especially among young children, with activity levels hitting the start of flu season.
  2. COVID-19 rates remain low in the U.S., with fewer hospitalizations and a slight rise in emergency visits in some states.
  3. Concerns about H5N1 bird flu continue as officials are unable to find the source of recent infections in humans.

Suggestions for a Practical Way of Responding to RFK, Jr: Reflections from an Infectious Disease Doctor

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 115 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Don't assume bad intentions of people like RFK Jr. Even if you disagree with them, it's important to recognize that they may genuinely care about public health.
  2. Instead of labeling individuals as 'quacks,' it's smarter to engage with their arguments and acknowledge when they make valid points. This can earn more respect.
  3. Being honest about past mistakes in public health can help rebuild trust with the community. Acknowledging errors makes it easier to improve in the future.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Dec 16

Force of Infection • 69 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Food Safety Healthcare system
  1. Influenza-like illness is on the rise, especially in the southern U.S., with young children seeing a slight decrease in cases. This suggests a possible peak in activity as we move into the new year.
  2. COVID-19 cases are starting to pick up again, particularly in the Midwest, though severe illness remains low. It's a good time to stock up on at-home tests ahead of holiday gatherings.
  3. Norovirus is seeing high positivity rates this year, especially in the West and Midwest. It's important to be cautious and aware of food recalls related to contamination.

Covid Situation Report: May 16, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Policy Data Reporting
  1. Covid positivity rates are rising again, but hospital admissions have mostly stabilized. Older adults, especially those over 65, still face higher hospitalization rates.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is going well, with over 2.8 million doses given. However, many immunocompromised individuals have not been vaccinated yet.
  3. Covid deaths are much lower compared to last year, proving that while we have challenges, the situation is improving overall.

Covid Situation Report: May 23, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 179 implied HN points • 24 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Infectious Diseases Health Policy Epidemiology
  1. Covid positivity rates have peaked and are now decreasing, indicating a potential end to the recent wave of infections.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is going well, with over 3.3 million doses given, but vaccination among vulnerable groups remains low.
  3. A new variant, KP.2, is spreading but doesn't appear to be more aggressive than others currently in circulation.

Latest "Bird Flu" Psyop

Who is Robert Malone • 38 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccines Public Health Pharmaceuticals Infectious Diseases Government Policy
  1. The 'bird flu' situation is being used as a psychological operation to manipulate public perception. The reality is that current cases have no risk of spreading between humans and the death rate is much lower than reported.
  2. Vaccination schedules for diseases like tetanus might be overhyped. Research suggests that the immunity from these vaccines lasts much longer than what's currently recommended, meaning fewer shots could be needed.
  3. Public health strategies are becoming overly reliant on vaccination, ignoring other effective treatments. It may be worth considering older treatments and ways to handle infectious diseases without constant vaccination.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 25, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Healthcare systems Infectious Diseases Long Covid
  1. Covid cases in England have stabilized, with low hospital admissions, even though there was a slight rise in positivity rates this week.
  2. Long Covid continues to affect about 2 million people in England and Scotland, especially those aged 45 to 64, with many suffering for over two years.
  3. A new Spring Covid vaccine campaign is underway, targeting the elderly and vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of taking precautions against Covid.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 13, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 99 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccines Epidemiology Infectious Diseases Health Policy
  1. Covid levels in England have stabilised after a minor rise in mid-May. Most regions are showing low and stable rates.
  2. The Spring 2024 booster vaccination campaign is going well, with 3.9 million doses given, but more needs to be done for vulnerable groups, especially the immunosuppressed.
  3. Older individuals face a higher risk of hospitalisation and death from Covid, highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated, especially for those aged 75 and above.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Dec 9

Force of Infection • 53 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Health Policy Outbreaks Epidemiology
  1. There is an increase in influenza-like illnesses, especially among young children. Outpatient visits for these symptoms have gone up recently.
  2. COVID-19 activity remains low across the country, but there are signs it could pick up soon in certain regions. Hospitalizations are currently at the lowest levels of the past year.
  3. Norovirus cases are on the rise, with the highest rates in the West. It's important to keep washing your hands to stay healthy.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Nov 24

Force of Infection • 59 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Public Health Vaccination Epidemiology
  1. Influenza-like illness is rising, especially in young children, as we approach the busy holiday season. It's expected to hit the national baseline soon.
  2. COVID-19 activity is currently low across the country, with minimal emergency department visits and hospitalizations remaining low.
  3. As Thanksgiving approaches, be cautious about norovirus transmission, especially when preparing food for others. It's best to avoid cooking for others for a few days after being sick.

Impending Medical Doom—AGAIN—and What We Can Do to Stay Sane

Tessa Fights Robots • 35 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Infectious Diseases Health Policy Vaccination
  1. It's important to pay attention to fungal and parasitic infections as they can affect our health in many ways. Focusing on prevention through diet and natural remedies can help.
  2. The idea of looming medical crises often comes up, and we should think critically about the information presented to us. Staying informed allows us to make better decisions.
  3. Finding ways to manage stress and include humor in our lives is essential. Laughter can be a powerful tool for our mental and emotional well-being.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Nov 11

Force of Infection • 67 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy
  1. Covid-19 levels are low in most areas, but there are still slight increases, especially in the Midwest. Make sure you're keeping an eye on your health and any symptoms.
  2. Influenza-like illness is starting to rise, particularly in young children, as we move into flu season. If you haven't gotten your flu vaccine yet, now is a good time to do so.
  3. Norovirus is currently higher in some regions, but it has dropped slightly overall. It's a reminder to keep practicing good hygiene, especially during this time of year.

Update on Locally Acquired Malaria in the United States - July 12th, 2023

LIL Science • 491 implied HN points • 13 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Infectious Diseases Prevention Treatment Vaccination Public Health
  1. Locally acquired cases of malaria have been diagnosed in Florida and Texas for the first time since 2003.
  2. Transmission of malaria within the United States is very rare, with efforts focused on increasing vector control in affected areas.
  3. Taking preventive measures like controlling mosquitos at home and seeking medical care if symptoms develop is advised in areas where malaria has been detected.

Genetic Variations that Predispose People to Severe COVID-19, Cause of Acute Deadly Hepatitis in Children Likely Identified, SARS-CoV-2 Origin Still Being Investigated

LIL Science • 471 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🔬 Science Genetics Infectious Diseases Research Virology
  1. Research has identified genetic variations that make people more likely to have severe COVID-19.
  2. The likely cause of acute deadly hepatitis in children has been identified as a combination of viruses and genetic predispositions.
  3. The origin of SARS-CoV-2 is still under investigation, with reports detailing activities in China preceding the pandemic.

Outbreak Outlook - October 21

Force of Infection • 67 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases Vaccination Public Health Epidemiology Health Policy
  1. Covid-19 cases are low nationally, but there might be a slight increase in the Northeast. Hospitalizations are at a low level across the country.
  2. Norovirus is increasing in rates, especially in the South where it has reached higher levels than in the last two years.
  3. Influenza-like illnesses are up slightly, particularly among young children, but overall activity remains low.