The hottest Pandemic response Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Health & Wellness Topics

It Is Now Clear Why Masks Never Worked

Unmasked • 46 implied HN points • 06 Mar 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Health Research Vaccine debate
  1. Masks did not effectively prevent the spread of COVID-19, as shown by multiple studies over the years. Many places that enforced strict mask mandates still experienced high infection rates.
  2. Experts originally agreed that masks weren’t necessary for the general public, and later claims to the contrary were proven wrong. The research all along suggested masks wouldn't help during a pandemic.
  3. Experiments during the pandemic showed that forcing people, including children, to wear masks didn’t make a difference in controlling the virus, ultimately leading to a conclusion that the mandates were ineffective.

The Evidence That A Million Americans Died Of COVID

Astral Codex Ten • 32210 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Statistics Healthcare Policy Analysis
  1. Many people are unsure if the 1.2 million COVID deaths are accurate, with some believing these deaths are linked to other causes rather than COVID itself.
  2. The data shows that total deaths during the pandemic were higher than usual, which supports the idea that many deaths were directly caused by COVID.
  3. Some argue that they don’t personally know anyone who died from COVID, but with a large population, it makes sense that not everyone would know someone affected.

With Walls Closing In, German Virologist Christian Drosten Ducks Behind Lawyers

The DisInformation Chronicle • 450 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Bioethics Government oversight
  1. Christian Drosten, a prominent German virologist, is facing scrutiny over his past statements about the origins of COVID-19, particularly regarding the lab leak theory.
  2. Gain-of-function research, which involves making viruses more dangerous, has come under increased ethical debate as the risks it poses to public health are significant.
  3. There is a growing call among scientists to halt risky gain-of-function experiments, as many believe they could lead to future pandemics if not carefully controlled.

The Covid Screwtape Letters - Part 4 - The "New Normal"

COVID Reason • 475 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Social Behavior Remote work Mental health
  1. Social distancing has made people feel more isolated and suspicious of each other. It's now hard for them to feel comfortable with close contact, like handshakes or hugs.
  2. Working from home sounds good, but it has turned into a way to control people's lives. They end up working more and feel stuck, as their home becomes like an office.
  3. People might miss in-person interactions, but they are being trained to prefer the convenience and safety of digital communication. This can make real connections feel uncomfortable.

Part 3: Who can suffer the most “for the greater good.”

COVID Reason • 614 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy Pandemic response Civil Liberties Social Behavior Mental health
  1. People have started to believe that their safety relies on how strictly they isolate themselves, sometimes even turning against one another for not following the rules.
  2. Many individuals are competing to show how much they can sacrifice for others, feeling proud of their suffering for the supposed 'greater good.'
  3. There are some who are questioning the restrictions and looking for balance in life, but they are often faced with pressure to conform and are labeled as selfish.
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NIH Dissolving Pricey Infectious Disease Centers as Scripps’ Kristian Andersen Prepares to Flee the US for Norway

The DisInformation Chronicle • 590 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Research Pandemic response Government funding
  1. The NIH is shutting down its expensive Infectious Disease Centers, which were started to handle emerging diseases. This move means that some funded researchers might lose their grants.
  2. Kristian Andersen, a researcher involved in the controversial 'Proximal Origin' paper, is leaving the US to take a position at the University of Oslo. His past work has sparked serious scrutiny about its ties to grant funding.
  3. There are ongoing investigations into whether Andersen misled intelligence agencies regarding the origins of COVID-19. This has raised concerns about academic integrity and accountability.

The Great John Ioannidis on the Terrible Science During Covid

COVID Reason • 753 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🔬 Science Public Health Research Integrity Medical Ethics Data Transparency Pandemic response
  1. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a flood of poor-quality scientific studies. Many rushed papers were published that had unreliable findings, highlighting a major issue in research standards.
  2. To improve science in the future, researchers need to focus on real problems and provide real-world data instead of relying heavily on models. Transparency is also crucial so everyone can trust the research and its sources.
  3. Healthcare workers faced immense challenges during the pandemic and deserve more support. The lessons learned from this crisis should help us prioritize quality scientific work and the human aspect of healthcare.

Lessons for the Next Plague

David Friedman’s Substack • 206 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Vaccine Policy Political Impact
  1. The pandemic response showed many mistakes, like unnecessary lockdowns and wrong theories about how the virus spread. Learning from these errors can help us better handle future pandemics.
  2. Politics played a big role in how people reacted to health measures, with facts becoming linked to personal beliefs. This shows how polarized views can affect public health decisions.
  3. Trust in science was low because there were no clear, reliable sources of information. It's important to establish trustworthy scientific reporting to avoid confusion during health crises.

The Covid Screwtape Letters - Part 1

COVID Reason • 1050 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Government Control Misinformation Crisis Management
  1. Chaos and confusion can be more powerful than a virus. When people are confused, they struggle to find the truth.
  2. Control is the real goal, not just dealing with the virus itself. Keeping people afraid and divided helps maintain that control.
  3. History shows us that fear can tear communities apart. Encouraging suspicion between neighbors can lead to a lot of conflict and chaos.

Dr. Atlas and the Crucible of Open Dialogue

COVID Reason • 495 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Censorship Public Health Policy Analysis Academic Freedom Pandemic response
  1. Government lockdowns during the pandemic didn't work as intended and caused more harm than good, affecting people's mental health and education.
  2. Censorship stifled important discussions and alternative viewpoints, which are essential for scientific progress.
  3. Academic institutions didn't uphold free expression and debate, which is key for critical thinking and finding the truth.

Heterodox Views In The Academy Could Save Lives

Heterodox STEM • 142 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Scientific research Policy Debate Pandemic response Epidemiology
  1. The lab leak theory is still debated, but political biases can influence how openly this is discussed in science.
  2. Gain-of-function research helps study viruses but poses risks, as it could lead to pandemics if not handled properly.
  3. Honest communication about scientific topics can help build public trust, which is crucial for handling future health crises.

CIA Says Covid Likely Originated From Lab In Tacit Admission Of Illegal Cover-Up

Public • 637 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Intelligence Government Accountability Pandemic response
  1. The CIA now suggests that COVID-19 likely came from a lab in Wuhan, which contradicts earlier beliefs.
  2. Many people once dismissed the idea of a lab leak as a conspiracy, calling it prejudiced and unfounded.
  3. This development indicates a significant shift in how officials are viewing the origins of COVID-19 after years of debate.

New Study Finds What We Already Knew In 2022: COVID Mortality Risk Was Nearly Nonexistent

Unmasked • 96 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Healthcare access
  1. A new study suggests that the risk of dying from COVID was much lower than previously thought. Many people believe this should have been clear from earlier data.
  2. COVID lockdowns and restrictions had huge impacts on society, like economic problems and lost learning for students. These issues continue to affect us today.
  3. The media and experts are often criticized for spreading fear and misinformation about COVID, which some say contributed to unnecessary restrictions and panic.

PREEMPT-ive Pardon for Fauci

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 356 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ethics Government Accountability Legal issues Public Health Pandemic response
  1. A preemptive pardon for Fauci raises serious questions about its legality and ethics. It's unusual to pardon someone before they are even charged with a crime.
  2. Concerns exist that Fauci's actions may have contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigations have found troubling evidence regarding the research funded by his agency.
  3. The call for further investigation into Fauci's NIAID is essential for understanding the truth about the pandemic. Many believe that stopping these inquiries is like obstructing justice.

Covid Having Failed to do the Job, Bill Gates Is Making a Second Run at culling the population

2nd Smartest Guy in the World • 4913 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health
  1. Bill Gates is being accused of attempting to reduce the world population through a 'peaceful culling'.
  2. WHO and Big Pharma are being criticized for promoting a potential 'Disease X' that could be 20 times deadlier than COVID-19.
  3. There are concerns about a lack of transparency and a hidden agenda behind global health decisions and pandemic predictions.

Poetic Justice for Jay Bhattacharya

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3389 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Policy Debate Science communication Medical Ethics
  1. Jay Bhattacharya was a respected Stanford professor until the pandemic changed everything. He proposed focusing on protecting vulnerable people instead of broad lockdowns.
  2. With support from other scientists, he created the Great Barrington Declaration, advocating for 'focused protection' during Covid-19. This approach aimed to keep society more open while safeguarding those at risk.
  3. Despite facing harsh criticism and attacks on his character for his views, Bhattacharya's ideas are gaining more attention, especially as he may soon lead the NIH.

The UK Covid Inquiry First Report on Resilience and Preparedness

Independent SAGE continues • 479 implied HN points • 18 Jul 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Government Policy Health Systems Crisis Management
  1. The UK Covid Inquiry found serious issues from the Covid-19 pandemic that show we aren't ready for the next outbreak. This means improvements are really needed.
  2. The report suggests 10 key changes to build a better response system for future pandemics. It's important these changes are made in a complete way, not just in bits and pieces.
  3. There is a looming threat of new diseases, like avian flu, crossing into humans. We need to prepare now because we don't know when the next pandemic will hit.

Fauci Did It!

Disaffected Newsletter • 919 implied HN points • 09 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Cultural Issues Pandemic response Legal issues Social Commentary
  1. People are quick to blame others for problems, like Fauci being blamed for the pandemic. But regular folks also played a part by not standing up for what’s right.
  2. There's a concern that cultural relativism is messing up society. For example, a court case showed how cultural excuses can sway justice, which isn't fair.
  3. The conversation touches on various social issues, like reactions to Pride Month and how some people are mocked for their choices. It's about how different views clash in today's world.

The Virtue of Diversity

David Friedman’s Substack • 431 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Epidemiology Policy Analysis Scientific research
  1. Many countries had similar Covid-19 policies, even though their cultures and situations were very different. This shows that having different approaches can be useful because it allows for diverse solutions.
  2. The Great Barrington Declaration suggested protecting vulnerable people while allowing the virus to spread among others. This idea faced strong opposition, highlighting how challenging it can be to propose different solutions in a uniform system.
  3. Countries like Sweden took a different path during the pandemic, opting for lighter restrictions. This led to a less severe impact than predicted, suggesting that a variety of strategies can lead to better outcomes.

Everything You Need to Know About H5N1 Bird Flu

OK Doomer • 106 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Disease Control Government Policy Communications
  1. H5N1 bird flu is mutating quickly, which is concerning for public health. It's important to stay informed about its developments.
  2. The U.S. administration is not communicating openly about health updates, which could leave people in the dark during a health crisis.
  3. Historically, some diseases that started off appearing mild later became serious. We should be cautious and prepared for any changes in the bird flu situation.

HHS picks, the House subcommittee report, and pandemic revisionism

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1326 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Policy Critique Healthcare system Epidemiology
  1. The new appointments in HHS reflect a mix of people who disagree with Covid-19 policies and those who have ignored real issues. Learning from the pandemic means discussing both the successes and failures honestly.
  2. Covid-19 is not like the flu; it caused a lot of deaths and the vaccines were effective in saving lives. It’s essential to recognize the actual impact and the importance of public health measures that worked.
  3. Many criticisms of pandemic policies lack evidence and understanding of the complexities involved. We should focus on genuine discussions about what went wrong and how to improve in future situations.

Independent SAGE has joined substack!

Independent SAGE continues • 1418 implied HN points • 20 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Vaccination Data Analysis
  1. Independent SAGE has launched a Substack to share insights about Covid research and data. They aim to provide valuable information directly from experts to the public.
  2. They plan to post updates roughly every two weeks, including responses to important new research and news. This helps keep everyone informed about the ongoing situation.
  3. The Substack will remain free for subscribers, encouraging more people to stay updated on Covid developments and public health measures.

CIA Says Pandemic Likely Started From a Lab

The DisInformation Chronicle • 670 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Pandemic response Public Health Government Policy Science communication
  1. The CIA recently suggested that the COVID virus likely originated from a lab in Wuhan, which contradicts earlier claims that labeled this idea as a conspiracy theory. This has caused a stir among scientists and writers who previously dismissed these claims.
  2. Some scientists who once strongly rejected the lab leak theory are now reconsidering their stance, as new assessments show that the virus's origin is still unresolved. They admit there is no definitive proof for either a natural or lab-based origin.
  3. The claim that calling the lab leak theory a conspiracy was unfounded has been echoed by various commentators. Many are now acknowledging that skepticism about the virus's origin deserves more serious discussion.

Dr. Mike Yeadon: "Don’t let them get away with it, Don’t believe those telling you Covid tyranny is all bumbling and fumbling that deserve forgiveness and amnesty' NO amnesty, NONE! (Dr. James Hill)

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 1926 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🌍 World Politics Pandemic response Accountability Conspiracy Theories Government actions
  1. Seek justice and full accountability
  2. No forgiveness or amnesty for Covid tyranny
  3. Hold individuals accountable for intentional actions

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.

When will the COVID race be run?

Independent SAGE continues • 1218 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Vaccination Pandemic response Health Inequality Long Covid
  1. The COVID-19 pandemic isn't a race that simply ends; it changes over time and is influenced by how well we can respond to the virus.
  2. Vaccines have helped reduce severe cases of COVID-19, but many vulnerable people still face risks, and measures need to be put in place to protect them.
  3. Improving ventilation and using masks can help slow down the virus's spread, and next-generation vaccines may offer better long-term protection.

The failures of 2020: why didn’t the UK ‘Act Fast and Isolate’?

Independent SAGE continues • 979 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Government Policy Health Systems Infectious Disease
  1. The UK did not act quickly enough during the early stages of the pandemic, leading to a high number of avoidable deaths. Other countries, especially in East Asia, took swift actions that resulted in much lower death rates.
  2. Public health measures, like efficient testing and isolation support, were not properly implemented in the UK. This failure caused prolonged lockdowns and significant economic damage.
  3. Learning from the successes of East Asian countries is crucial for future pandemic responses. The UK needs to adapt its public health strategies to be more proactive and supportive.

TRUMP'S FIRST COVID MISTAKE

Seymour Hersh • 43 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Pandemic response Intelligence Health Policy Government Accountability
  1. There was early intelligence about the COVID virus from Wuhan that indicated urgent action was needed. However, the response from leadership was slow and ineffective.
  2. The U.S. intelligence community had credible sources warning about a laboratory accident in Wuhan, but this information was not acted upon promptly.
  3. Many critical studies and warnings from health experts were reportedly erased from records to protect the president, suggesting a significant mismanagement of the crisis.

Health Expert States There's Basically Zero Evidence Supporting N95 Masks. But At Least There's Significant Side Effects

Unmasked • 83 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Health Policy Mask Mandates
  1. There is little evidence that N95 masks are effective, and they may cause significant side effects.
  2. Many health experts and officials seem unwilling to learn from past COVID-19 failures, which could lead to repeated mistakes.
  3. With the possibility of mask mandates returning, it's important for people to question the policies and their actual effectiveness.

"Learning to live with COVID" means upgrading air quality, now

The Gauntlet • 1631 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Air Quality Public Health Pandemic response Infection Control
  1. Learning to live with COVID requires upgrading air quality to reduce viral spread.
  2. Implementing measures like improving indoor air quality and proper ventilation can help mitigate the spread of not only COVID but other airborne viruses as well.
  3. Promoting clean air in public spaces through increased ventilation, filtration, and CO2 monitoring can significantly lower the risk of infections and contribute to a successful public health response.

Sedated granny with deadly toxic drugs like propofol, midazolam, lorazepam, fentanyl, diamorphine etc.), knowing breathing was already suppressed & the toxic drugs suppressed her breathing even more,

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 1395 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Healthcare Medication Elderly Care Pandemic response
  1. Sedation of elderly patients with toxic drugs can worsen their breathing and health.
  2. Some medical professionals neglected and mistreated elderly patients during the COVID-19 crisis.
  3. It's important to have an emergency preparedness kit with essential medications.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 27, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 239 implied HN points • 28 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Healthcare policy Vaccination
  1. Covid cases in England are rising again, especially in the North East and North West, but they are still at relatively low levels overall.
  2. Deaths from Covid have slightly increased recently, but they remain lower compared to last year, with only 101 deaths recorded for a recent week.
  3. The Spring 2024 booster campaign is ending soon, and while 55% of those eligible have received it, many immunocompromised individuals still need to get vaccinated.

Bah Humbug: No Matter How Hard They Try, Masks Still Don't Work

Unmasked • 113 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Pandemic response Mask Mandates COVID-19 Medical Research
  1. Masks have been debated since the pandemic began, but many experts still believe they don't work effectively. This has led to ongoing discussions among people who support or oppose their use.
  2. Past studies attempting to prove the effectiveness of masks have often been criticized for their flaws and misleading results. This has caused skepticism about the reliability of mask research.
  3. Recent studies that promote mask-wearing continue to fuel the belief among some groups, but they are viewed by others as inaccurate or propaganda. This division highlights the ongoing controversy over mask mandates.

'Experts' Running The COVID Playbook Again As Mask Mandates Return

Unmasked • 86 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Debate Pandemic response
  1. Some COVID-19 policies were based on arrogance and made without admitting they failed. It's worrying when experts ignore their mistakes and push for restrictions continuously.
  2. The pandemic showed how dangerous it is when authority figures act with big egos and lack accountability. This issue hasn't disappeared even years later.
  3. Despite all the evidence against them, some people still believe in the effectiveness of masks. Many experts have criticized masks, saying they haven't worked as promised.

CDC Director Is Exhibit A That 'Experts' Have Learned Nothing From COVID

Unmasked • 73 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Public Health Policy Analysis Crisis Management Pandemic response
  1. The CDC made mistakes in managing COVID-19, like failing to roll out tests properly and giving confusing mask advice. This led to a lot of public criticism.
  2. Their guidance on masks changed too many times without strong evidence to support the changes. They often relied on poor studies that were quickly disproven.
  3. Despite the backlash and criticism, the CDC didn't seem to learn from their mistakes or adjust their approach effectively during the pandemic.

Come On, Peggy Noonan, Just Say You Were Wrong

COVID Reason • 1606 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Media influence Public Health Pandemic response Political Commentary
  1. Many public figures refuse to admit when they are wrong about past events.
  2. It is important for pundits to acknowledge past mistakes, as it can be a positive and honest gesture.
  3. The truth about past events, especially in public health policies, must be acknowledged and understood for the future.