The hottest Infectious Diseases Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics

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.

It's peak flu season

Force of Infection • 114 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.

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.

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.

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.
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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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Bird Flu, Food Safety and What you Can Do to Protect Yourself

Who is Robert Malone • 18 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Government Policy Infectious Diseases Vaccination Food Safety
  1. Bird flu mainly affects birds and is not closely related to the seasonal flu that humans get. Human cases are very rare and usually mild, often occurring through close contact with infected birds.
  2. There are plans for new mRNA vaccines to combat bird flu, but many believe the government is overreacting to the threat. Testing and vaccination rollouts are likely to increase, affecting poultry and dairy farmers.
  3. The focus should be on improving farming practices and healthy lifestyles rather than on mass vaccination. Our immune systems need exposure to various pathogens to stay strong, and natural nutrients like vitamins D and magnesium are essential.

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.

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.

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.

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 - October 14

Force of Infection • 54 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Health Policy Health Communication
  1. Covid-19 cases are decreasing across the country, with many states reporting low activity, especially in the Western region.
  2. Norovirus is on the rise, particularly in the South, and it can cause stomach pain and vomiting. Good hand hygiene is important to prevent its spread.
  3. Colds and respiratory viruses are becoming more common as the cold season starts, so it's important to stay vigilant about hygiene and health.

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.

Out this week

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1421 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Public Health Wellness Infectious Diseases
  1. Katelyn Jetelina took a break from newsletter writing this week to work on an emergency with the World Health Organization in Turkey.
  2. A paid subscription to YLE goes beyond commenting powers, as it enables advocacy for necessary change, implementation during emergencies, and saving lives through evidence-based actions.
  3. The subscription also supports advocating for change, implementing changes during emergencies, and saving lives with evidence-based approaches.

Scaling Phage Therapy

Asimov Press • 270 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Technology Infectious Diseases Public Health
  1. Phage therapy, using bacteriophages to combat drug-resistant infections, has seen renewed interest but faces challenges in scaling up due to the specificity of phages and the complexity of creating effective treatments.
  2. High-tech advancements like AI and synthetic biology offer potential solutions by predicting phage-host relationships and synthesizing phages for personalized treatments, aiming to overcome logistical and regulatory hurdles.
  3. The burden of antimicrobial resistance is predicted to impact low-income countries the most, highlighting the need for affordable, accessible phage therapies that can be used to prevent the spread of bacterial diseases in global health crises.

Deliberate Dysentery

Asimov Press • 96 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Medical Research Ethics Safety Vaccines Infectious Diseases
  1. Human challenge trials have been used for centuries to deliberately infect individuals with pathogens for research purposes, such as testing vaccines and treatments.
  2. The rising popularity of challenge trials can be attributed to ethical reforms, development of solid challenge models, and the ability to safely and effectively test vaccines for various diseases.
  3. Challenge trials have drawbacks, including recruitment challenges, underpayment of participants, and difficulty in quantifying overall impact.

Outbreak Outlook - National - January 22

Force of Infection • 94 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Infectious Diseases Public Health Food Safety Long Covid Vaccination rates
  1. Influenza-like illness activity decreased across all age groups and regions, with improvements in hospitalizations as well.
  2. COVID-19 activity is starting to decrease, supported by various indicators like hospitalizations and test positivity.
  3. RSV trends are showing improvement with a decrease in positivity rates, especially in vulnerable age and ethnic groups.

Outbreak Outlook - National - February 19

Force of Infection • 59 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Respiratory Diseases Stomach Bugs Food recalls Infectious Diseases
  1. Influenza-like illness (ILI) activity has increased in various age groups and regions, with over half of the country affected. However, emergency department visits for influenza are declining.
  2. National Covid-19 hospitalizations are declining in some regions, but there is a resurgence in the South. Overall, the situation is complex with variations across different states.
  3. RSV test positivity is decreasing nationally, but the West and Midwest still have lingering activity. Seasonal coronavirus activity is high, and norovirus remains a concern.

Black swans and Covid-19

Joshua Gans' Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 10 Mar 21
🔬 Science Pandemics Risk Assessment Infectious Diseases Vaccines Global impact
  1. Covid-19 was not truly a black swan event despite its extreme consequences, as a global pandemic was predictable based on historical precedent and scientific consensus.
  2. Several unexpected positive outcomes emerged during the pandemic, such as minimal surface transmission, limited spread outdoors, and the rapid development of effective vaccines.
  3. The pandemic's string of good luck should serve as a reminder of the unpredictability and potential severity of future global infectious disease events, urging caution and preparedness.