The hottest Infectious Diseases Substack posts right now

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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 Infectious Diseases
  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.

Thanksgiving guide to viruses, family conversations, and public health updates

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1585 implied HN points • 24 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. This Thanksgiving, there are fewer viruses like colds and the flu, which means people are less likely to get sick. That's good news for family gatherings!
  2. When talking about tough subjects with family, like vaccines, it's important to stay calm and look for common ground. This can help keep the conversation friendly and productive.
  3. Recent settlements from opioid lawsuits will provide $7 billion to help communities affected by the opioid crisis. This money aims to support better treatment and prevention efforts.

A Covid Nasal Vaccine Update

Ground Truths • 10148 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics 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.

Covid Situation Report: Jul 18, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 279 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.
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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 Infectious Diseases
  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.

Widespread flu activity overshadows holiday season

Force of Infection • 124 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Infectious Diseases
  1. Flu is surging across many states with emergency visits, test positivity, and hospitalizations doubling or tripling in places and in some areas already exceeding last year’s peaks.
  2. Other respiratory viruses — RSV, rhinoviruses/enteroviruses, adenovirus and metapneumovirus — are also on the rise, while COVID-19 is increasing in some states but remains generally low.
  3. Multiple food recalls and non-respiratory outbreaks (growing measles clusters, a salmonella outbreak tied to raw oysters, and rising norovirus wastewater signals) add extra public health risks, so check recalled items and follow basic hygiene steps.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 6, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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 Infectious Diseases
  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.

Covid Situation Report: May 16, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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 Infectious Diseases
  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.

We are likely at peak season

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1384 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

Up, up, and away

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1530 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

Thanksgiving Outlook

Force of Infection • 135 implied HN points • 23 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Flu activity is starting to increase in many areas, especially among young children. It's important to stay aware of this as you celebrate Thanksgiving.
  2. COVID-19 cases are currently low, but we might see an increase soon in some states. It's something we should keep an eye on.
  3. Norovirus is on the rise, especially with Thanksgiving coming up. Make sure to wash your hands and be cautious when preparing food for others to prevent spreading it.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 25, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

More of your H5N1 questions answered

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1263 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics 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.

Flu season gains momentum

Force of Infection • 90 implied HN points • 07 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Flu activity is starting to rise across the country, with more people visiting doctors for flu-like symptoms. This could mean we are entering the flu season earlier than usual.
  2. COVID-19 cases are currently low, but there are regional increases in some areas, especially in the Midwest and Northeast.
  3. Norovirus is becoming more active, and it's important to practice good hygiene, like washing hands, to avoid getting sick.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Dec 2

Force of Infection • 97 implied HN points • 02 Dec 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Flu cases are rising in the U.S., especially among young kids, but overall activity is still below last year's levels. Hospitalizations are very low right now.
  2. COVID-19 levels are quite low nationally, but there's a chance they may increase following the holiday travel period.
  3. RSV is also increasing but is relatively mild compared to past seasons, along with other cold and flu-like illnesses spreading widely.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 13, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 99 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

The Dose (December 6)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1002 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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 - Nov 16

Force of Infection • 96 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Flu activity is on the rise in the U.S., with particular concern around the H3N2 strain which has been linked to more severe seasons. It's important to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
  2. COVID-19 is currently very low in activity, with fewer emergency visits and hospitalizations. But there are still some minor spikes in a few states that need to be monitored.
  3. Norovirus positivity rates are rising, especially in the South, and it's spreading quickly. This virus can cause severe stomach issues, so stay cautious and mindful of hygiene.

Weekend flu check-in

Force of Infection • 65 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Influenza activity is increasing across many states, especially among children. While still low, this trend is expected to continue as the holiday season approaches.
  2. Different regions are experiencing varying levels of flu activity. Some areas, like New York City and Colorado, are seeing significant rises, while others remain stable or low.
  3. In Canada, flu cases are also rising quickly, with a noticeable increase in hospitalizations. It's important to monitor respiratory illnesses like RSV and COVID-19, but currently, COVID-19 levels are stable.

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
  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 Infectious Diseases
  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.

The Dose (October 18)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 883 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Infectious Diseases
  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.

The Quest for Universal Flu Vaccines

Asimov Press • 354 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

Checking in on the summer covid season

Force of Infection • 104 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Influenza-like illnesses are currently very low across the country, with almost no hospitalizations. This means fewer people are visiting doctors for flu symptoms right now.
  2. COVID-19 activity is also low, but some states are seeing slight increases in cases and hospitalizations. Hawaii and Florida are the areas to watch as their numbers have been rising.
  3. Norovirus has been active this year, with a new strain causing concern. It's important to stay informed about food recalls and safety alerts, especially regarding unpasteurized milk products.

Out this week

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1421 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🏥 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.

A historic flu season

Force of Infection • 191 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Aug 4

Force of Infection • 59 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. COVID-19 cases are increasing as we approach the school season, with more people testing positive and higher wastewater levels showing the virus's presence.
  2. For respiratory illnesses like flu, we're seeing very low activity levels across all age groups, which is encouraging for now.
  3. While COVID-19 hospitalizations are still low, emergency department visits are slightly rising, so it's important to stay alert.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Feb 17

Force of Infection • 152 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

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

OK Doomer • 141 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

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 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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - March 3

Force of Infection • 110 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - July 21

Force of Infection • 47 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. COVID-19 cases are rising in some southern and western states like Texas, California, and Florida, despite being low in many areas. It's important to stay alert to the changes in these regions.
  2. Influenza-like illnesses have very low outpatient visits right now, which is typical for summer. Most states are seeing minimal activity for these illnesses.
  3. The summer COVID-19 wave is starting later this year, possibly due to a lighter winter season. It may peak later than usual, so keep an eye on the trends.
  4. ] }

It's peak flu season

Force of Infection • 119 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics 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.

Outbreak Outlook - National - July 9

Force of Infection • 44 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🏥 Health Politics Infectious Diseases
  1. Measles cases are breaking records this year, with many months still remaining. This highlights the ongoing concerns about vaccine coverage and public health.
  2. Influenza-like illnesses are low right now, showing it’s off-season for flu. The situation could change as we move further into the year.
  3. COVID-19 cases are slowly rising, especially in southern states like Florida and Texas, but there isn't a big surge happening yet.