The hottest Vaccination Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics

Flu is (still) taking off, egg prices, new diet standards, Super Bowl, and more

Your Local Epidemiologist • 2404 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Flu cases are rising sharply this year, with many people experiencing 'influenza-like illnesses' since 2002. Fewer vaccinations among kids and a mismatch between the vaccine and circulating flu strains are contributing to this problem.
  2. A new Ebola vaccine trial has started in Uganda quickly after an outbreak occurred. This is an important step to help control the spread of the virus and protect public health.
  3. New nutrition guidelines suggest that kids aged 5 to 18 should mainly drink plain water and milk, while sugar-sweetened beverages should be limited. This can help improve their overall health and prevent issues like weight gain and dental problems.

Covid Situation Report: Jun 6, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  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 vaccines for pregnancy and babies: Sorting fact from chaos

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1023 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Pregnant women and children can still get the Covid-19 vaccine, which is both safe and effective. This helps protect the mother and child from the virus.
  2. Vaccination during pregnancy can pass important antibodies to the baby, offering short-term protection after birth. But as these antibodies fade, it's crucial for babies to get their own vaccinations starting at 6 months.
  3. There has been some confusion about vaccine eligibility lately due to changing recommendations, but speaking with a healthcare provider can help clarify options for parents.

Why Does COVID-19 Impact People Differently?

LIL Science • 943 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. COVID-19 affects people differently, with factors like age, comorbidities, and exposure to the virus playing a role
  2. Genetics, such as blood type and HLA genotype, can impact susceptibility to severe COVID-19
  3. Research is ongoing to uncover genetic factors that influence COVID-19 severity, but prevention through vaccination, masks, and distancing remains key
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Covid Situation Report: May 30, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  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.

H5N1 Update: January 7

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1940 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. H5N1, or bird flu, is still spreading among animals and has now caused its first human death in the U.S. It's a serious virus, but the general public's risk remains low for now.
  2. Experts are worried about H5N1 because it could mutate and become more dangerous, especially if it spreads among animals that are close to humans. Keeping tabs on this virus is important.
  3. Right now, there's not much for the average person to do except stay informed. Avoid sick animals and unpasteurized milk to stay safe, and let health officials manage the outbreak.

The Dose (January 3)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1867 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. Winter is here, and respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID, and RSV are on the rise across the country. It's important to stay aware as health services could get overwhelmed.
  2. The new COVID-19 vaccine is showing good results, especially for older adults, helping to reduce hospital visits significantly. Keeping up with vaccinations can strengthen your immunity.
  3. Some Costco eggs may be contaminated with salmonella, so it's best to check your fridge and avoid those eggs to keep your family safe.

A COVID Q&A: booster timing; testing; contagiousness; & the Novavax shot

Are You Okay? • 718 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. It's crucial for high-risk individuals to consider getting a COVID booster shot 6 months post-infection, but the benefits of additional doses diminish for those at lower risk. Boosters may help briefly reduce infection risks, but lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, and exercise are also key for health.
  2. COVID testing should be prioritized for cases where results would alter medical care. For healthy individuals, testing may not be as critical for every symptom, but knowing the specific virus causing symptoms can still influence precautions and decisions.
  3. In households with multiple symptomatic individuals, differing COVID test results can occur; one positive and one negative doesn't necessarily mean the negative individual isn't contagious. Contact a healthcare provider for guidance when unsure.

An effort to Educate Massachusetts State Reps hamstrung by biased reporting

An Insult to Intuition • 1277 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. An effort to educate Massachusetts State Reps about proposed bills protecting individual rights faced challenges with low attendance from legislators.
  2. The presentation highlighted concerns about the safety and efficacy of mRNA vaccines, questioning the data and potential negative outcomes.
  3. Issues were raised about biased reporting by a news service, labeling presenters as 'vaccine skeptics' and not fully representing their evidence-based arguments.

Updated flu report, national edition

Force of Infection • 80 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. Flu activity is very high nationwide, with outpatient ILI visits around 8.3% and levels not seen in more than two decades, and many states appear to be at or near their peak.
  2. This season is driven by a new H3N2 subclade (K), but early estimates show this year’s vaccine still gives moderate protection—about 30–40% against hospitalization in adults.
  3. Children are bearing the biggest burden with the highest outpatient and emergency visits while adults 65+ have the highest hospitalization rates, and every region is seeing rising activity with the Northeast and South especially hard hit.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Jan 4

Force of Infection • 86 implied HN points • 04 Jan 26
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. Flu activity is very high across the country, with emergency visits and hospitalizations elevated in many states and several areas near or past their seasonal peak.
  2. COVID-19 and RSV are both rising; COVID remains generally low but has notable increases in some states, while RSV is at moderate levels and climbing with some states reaching seasonal baselines.
  3. Norovirus activity is increasing and highly contagious, so hand washing and surface cleaning are important. Multiple food recalls and a large measles resurgence also highlight the need for food safety and vaccination.

Outbreak Outlook - National - Jan 11

Force of Infection • 70 implied HN points • 11 Jan 26
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. Influenza activity is very high nationwide but shows signs of declining in most regions; children improved most, yet cases, hospitalizations, and deaths remain substantial and precautions are still advisable.
  2. COVID-19 is trending upward — wastewater levels and hospitalizations are increasing, with the Midwest hardest hit, the Northeast and South rising, and the West still low.
  3. RSV and several other respiratory viruses are rising (with RSV test positivity and hospitalizations up), norovirus wastewater signals are high in many regions, and several food recalls mean people should check and discard affected products.

A Response to France’s Best-Selling COVID Skeptic

Integrity Talk • 66 implied HN points • 06 Jan 26
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Saying there was no excess mortality during COVID is misleading because standardizing past deaths to a recent age structure ignores rising life expectancy and doesn’t fit global excess-death patterns.
  2. Arguing tests don’t detect illness confuses being infected with being symptomatic; PCR reliably finds viral material and antigen tests do a good job ruling out infection, even though no test perfectly indicates sickness.
  3. Claiming vaccines don’t work mixes valid worries about industry conflicts with a misunderstanding of trial goals; trials were powered to show reduced symptomatic COVID and large real-world studies later showed much lower death rates among vaccinated people.

Increased risk of 20%? Dr. JimThorp, obstetrician/gynecologist who led the fight against the COVID mRNA technology gene injections as to harms on the fetus, mother, newborn, as has Dr. Naomi Wolf, are

Alexander News Network -Dr. Paul Elias Alexander's substack • 530 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. A new study suggests a 20% increased risk of severe bleeding post-mRNA vaccination in women hospitalized for heavy menstrual bleeding.
  2. The study focused on women aged 15-50 who experienced heavy menstrual bleeding post-mRNA vaccination in France between May 2021 and August 2022, with 99.8% receiving Comirnaty (Pfizer) or Spikevax (Moderna).
  3. Primary vaccination doses showed a 20% increased risk, particularly in socially disadvantaged municipalities and among women not using hormonal contraception, but this increased risk was not found for booster doses.

Q&A: measles symptoms; B12 supplements; Ashwagandha for anxiety; & the measles booster

Are You Okay? • 359 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. Measles is difficult to contain due to the anti-vax movement and asymptomatic spread. Symptoms can include cough, runny nose, pink eye, fever, and a rash spreading across the body.
  2. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and provides lifelong protection. It is recommended for adults without a history of measles.
  3. Taking vitamin B12 supplements may be necessary for individuals with low levels, especially if caused by medications like Prilosec; however, unnecessary vitamin supplementation should be approached with caution.

The COVID Digest, 18Feb2023

The COVID Digest • 1100 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. The author is taking a break from writing about COVID-19 after three years of pandemic updates.
  2. There has been a significant decrease in hospitalizations and ICU admissions in Georgia as waves of the pandemic progressed.
  3. The author emphasizes the importance of public health in addressing disparities and ensuring access to healthcare for all.

Covid Situation Report: Mar 28, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 339 implied HN points • 30 Mar 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Covid cases and hospital admissions are currently low and showing a downward trend. This means the winter surge is considered over.
  2. The Juno variant is still the main strain, but no new variants have been detected that could cause another surge.
  3. A Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting for vulnerable groups, reminding us that older individuals have a higher risk of hospitalization if infected.

Year-on-year COVID comparisons

Logging the World • 1056 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Overall, COVID admissions and death rates in 2023 are lower than the corresponding days in 2022, suggesting positive progress in managing the virus.
  2. Comparisons of primary beds occupied 'for COVID' show similar positive trends in 2023 compared to 2022, indicating improved conditions.
  3. The data suggests that in 2023, COVID outcomes have improved significantly compared to previous years, with lower deaths and better management, showcasing progress in handling the pandemic.

Covid Situation Report: May 16, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 17 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  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 Vaccination
  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 Vaccination
  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 Vaccination
  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 Vaccination
  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-19 UPDATE

LIL Science • 746 implied HN points • 21 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. COVID-19 infections often increase after holidays like Thanksgiving
  2. Current COVID-19 metrics are trending upward, but hospitalizations have decreased
  3. Ways to stay safe during the holidays: self-quarantine, rapid testing, ventilation, mask-wearing

Buckle up: Navigating the noise around routine vaccination

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1375 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Vaccination has had a huge impact on public health, eradicating diseases like smallpox and reducing cases of polio and measles to near-zero with high vaccination rates.
  2. Most people still trust vaccines, with a significant percentage of parents ensuring their kids are vaccinated, despite the loud voices questioning vaccine safety.
  3. It's normal to have questions about vaccines, but it's important to seek answers from trusted experts to separate fact from fiction.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 18, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 219 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. The Covid situation is improving, with lower hospital admissions and positivity rates compared to before. However, some areas are seeing slight increases.
  2. There is a new booster campaign for older adults and those at risk, highlighting the ongoing need for vaccination to prevent severe outcomes.
  3. Covid is still around and can be serious, especially for older people, so it's important to follow safety measures when feeling unwell.

Unwanted viral guests at Thanksgiving

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1378 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. This Thanksgiving, the chance of getting sick is lower than in the past four years, but we still need to be careful as viruses can spread quickly.
  2. Most illnesses right now are from the common cold, and RSV is affecting young kids, so it's smart to be cautious around babies during gatherings.
  3. Vaccination rates are up, which helps prevent severe illness, so it's a good idea to get vaccinated before the holidays if you haven't already.

Breath, Conscience, and the Winter I Was Cast Out

Natural Selections • 10 implied HN points • 24 Feb 26
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. A worker was fired and evicted after refusing to follow masking and testing rules tied to a religious objection and claimed natural immunity, even though the overnight role was solitary and regular tests were negative.
  2. The employer applied COVID rules selectively and punitively, while colleagues privately agreed with the worker’s doubts but stayed silent for fear of losing their jobs.
  3. The worker is pursuing legal complaints for religious discrimination and due process violations and argues the era transformed safety practices into ritual compliance that punished conscience and questioning.

Covid Situation Report: May 2, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 179 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Covid positivity rates are rising, especially among people aged 65 and older. But overall, hospital admission rates for Covid remain relatively low.
  2. The Autumn 2023 booster significantly reduced hospitalization risks for older individuals, but its effectiveness decreases significantly after 15 weeks. A successful Spring 2024 booster campaign is needed to protect vulnerable populations.
  3. The Spring 2024 booster campaign started strong, with over 1.3 million doses given in the first two weeks. It's important for eligible individuals to get vaccinated as Covid levels may be increasing.

Dr. Walensky’s Dishonorable Acts

COVID Reason • 1586 implied HN points • 08 May 23
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Vaccinated people can still get sick despite what was originally claimed by public officials.
  2. Repeatedly promoting masks as effective at preventing transmission or infection caused harm without solid evidence.
  3. Downplaying concerns over post-vaccine myocarditis despite potential risks was criticized for lack of proper risk communication.

Explaining the "Hospitalization Paradox"

Harnessing the Power of Nutrients • 3494 implied HN points • 19 Feb 22
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. The "Hospitalization Paradox" highlights the vaccine's impact on PCR tests and COVID-like illness, creating a statistical anomaly exploited by media and health authorities.
  2. Vaccines may not be clinically useful as they predominantly impact the ability to test negative rather than reducing the severity of illness or hospitalization.
  3. During the waning phase of efficacy, the persistence of a negative test may correlate with undesirable inflammation, spike protein toxicity, autoimmunity, and COVID-like illness.

Which Arm Should You Get Your COVID-19 Booster In?

LIL Science • 727 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. The arm in which you receive your COVID-19 booster might make a difference in your immune response.
  2. Getting the booster in the same arm as the previous dose could lead to higher neutralizing antibodies and specific T cells.
  3. Memory B cells may persist in the draining lymph node, potentially aiding quicker immune response upon re-exposure to the antigen.

Covid Situation Report: Apr 11, 2024

Independent SAGE continues • 199 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Covid hospital admissions are low and stable, indicating that the winter surge has mostly ended. This is a good sign for managing the virus.
  2. A Spring 2024 booster campaign is starting soon, targeting older adults and those with weakened immune systems to help keep them safer.
  3. Deaths from Covid have significantly decreased compared to last year, and the overall numbers continue to go down, which is encouraging news.

The Dose (October 25)

Your Local Epidemiologist • 1299 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🏥 Health Politics Vaccination
  1. Older adults can expect to get a Covid-19 vaccine next spring. Getting two shots a year may provide better protection, especially for those over 65.
  2. There’s a multistate outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald's hamburgers, caused by slivered onions. It’s important to stay aware of food safety and current health warnings.
  3. Since the Dobbs decision, infant mortality rates have increased, mainly due to birth defects. This shows how political decisions can impact health and wellbeing.

Friday Q&A: assessing COVID risk; Ozempic/Mounjaro; booster shots; & CBD gummies for sleep

Are You Okay? • 459 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Vaccination
  1. It's important to balance the risks associated with COVID-19 with the desire for social interaction and living a fulfilling life.
  2. Protecting against serious COVID outcomes involves getting vaccinated and optimizing health, while preventing infection means avoiding sick individuals and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces.
  3. Decisions regarding COVID risk mitigation should be personalized, taking into account individual vulnerabilities and risk tolerance, and it's advised to consult with a healthcare provider for tailored advice.