US households can now order four free Covid tests from the government – latest guidelines

New Covid boosters from Pfizer and Moderna are now available at pharmacies nationwide, and the US has restarted its free Covid test program.

Tests can be ordered from COVIDTests.gov; you can order four per household.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are recommending one dose of the updated vaccine for everyone six months and older in the US; some children may be eligible for up to three doses depending on their age and previous vaccination status.

Hospitalisations and deaths rose steadily during the last weeks of summer, and global health authorities are monitoring two new variants, BA.2.86, known as Pirola, and EG.5, known as Eris.

First reported in February, Eris is now responsible for nearly 25 per cent of Covid cases in the US, per CDC data.

Some experts are urging Americans to wear a mask when necessary to slow the spread of the virus.

CDC Covid tracker

19,674 hospitalisations from 10 September to 16 September

Key Points

• How to get free Covid tests from the government

• You should see a doctor for Covid if you develop these symptoms

• Everything we know about the latest round of Covid boosters, including how to book an appointment

• Covid exposure guidelines 2023: What to know

About half of Americans say they plan to get the Covid vaccine

Monday 2 October 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Nearly half of American adults say they will “definitely” or “probably” get the updated vaccine, according to a poll from KFF Health News

About 23 per cent of adults said they’d definitely get it, while another 23 per cent said they probably would. About 37 per cent of people who previously said they got the vaccine said that, this year, they definitely or probably wouldn’t get another dose.

Many nursing home residents haven’t received the updated Covid-19 vaccine yet

Monday 2 October 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Older adults, who are especially vulnerable to Covid-19 infection, have not been prioritised as the updated vaccinations have been rolled out, and some nursing homes have not yet vaccinated—and, thus, protected—all their residents, per reporting from The New York Times.

When the Biden administration ended the Public Health Emergency status in May, the federal government quit distributing Covid-19 vaccines, which has made it difficult for nursing home operators to get the supplies they need to protect their residents, the outlet reported.

About 1.8 million Americans received the updated Covid vaccine last week

Monday 2 October 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

About 1.8 million people in the US got an updated Covid vaccine last week, according to reporting from Reuters.

About 1 million people received the Pfizer vaccine, while just under 800,000 got the Moderna shot.

Health authorities have recommended the vaccine for everyone six months and older to protect them from severe disease and hospitalisation.

CDC director encourages use of all available vaccines

Monday 2 October 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Dr Mandy Cohen, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recently tweeted a reminder that vaccines against Covid-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are now available. All vaccines can help protect against severe disease.

Schools across the country encouraging mask use as cold and flu season approaches

Sunday 1 October 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Many school systems are reinstating pandemic-era policies around masks as experts predict a possible uptick in Covid cases during the fall and winter months.

School systems in Maryland, Alabama, and Louisiana have begun to initiate conversations around masks, and face coverings are being required in some circumstances to slow the spread of Covid, per reporting from Newsweek.

Some New Jersey hospitals have reinstated mask mandates

Sunday 1 October 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Five hospitals in New Jersey have reinstated mask mandates as cold and flu season approaches, per reporting from ABC 7 New York.

Old Bridge Medical Center, Riverview Medical Center of Red Bank, Southern Ocean Medical Center of Stafford, Ocean University Medical Center of Brick, and Carrier Clinic of Montgomery will be requiring masks.

“The decision was made due to an increase in COVID-19 prevalence in these hospitals, facilities and communities,” a hospital spokesperson said in a statement given to ABC 7 New York.

At least 85.6 million years of life have been lost to Covid, analysis finds

Sunday 1 October 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A new study that looked at Covid’s impact on just 49 countries found that 85.6 million years of life have been lost to the virus.

“Between January 2020 and December 2021, we found that over 85,649,579 years of life have been lost to COVID-19 among the 49 selected countries, among which 2,724,463 deaths were caused by the disease,” the study said.

The study authors noted that the new report “provides evidence of the high impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of years of lives lost, which goes further than studies of specific mortality”.

Experts criticise Biden’s Covid response

Sunday 1 October 2023 12:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Doctors and researchers have called on the Biden administration to more aggressively promote the use of masks to slow the spread of Covid-19.

Former US surgeon general Dr Jerome Adams recently wore a mask while attending an event, which sparked criticism of officials who will not mask up in public spaces.

It’s important to rest when you’re experiencing Covid fatigue, experts say

Sunday 1 October 2023 07:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Researchers are still looking for answers as to why Covid causes fatigue in some, but when it does strike, it’s important to give your body time to heal.

In a recent interview with The New York Times, long Covid researcher Dr Ziyad Al-Aly said, “The basic rule is rest. You don’t want to fight it.”

If fatigue lasts longer than 30 days, you should speak with your doctor, Dr Al-Aly said.

CDC provides updated data on Covid test positivity rate

Sunday 1 October 2023 02:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated data on the Covid test positivity rate for the week of 17 September through 23 September.

During that time, test positivity decreased 1.1 per cent compared to the previous week. Per the data, 11.6 per cent of tests were positive from 17 September to 23 September.

CDC provides updated data on Covid emergency department visits

Saturday 30 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated data on Covid emergency department visits for the week of 17 September through 23 September.

During that time, emergency department visits decreased 11.7 per cent compared to the previous week.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee tested positive for Covid

Saturday 30 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Washington Governor Jay Inslee, 72, has tested positive for Covid, according to reporting from The Seattle Times.

He recently got the updated vaccine, but was infected prior to his vaccination. In a statement, he said, “We are so appreciative that we have this vaccine that has the ability to keep you out of the hospital or worse. I’m glad I received it and encourage others to take advantage.”

Governor Inslee has reportedly experienced “mild symptoms”.

Michigan senator Debbie Stabenow tests positive for Covid

Saturday 30 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow, 73, has tested positive for Covid-19, she wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

“I tested positive for COVID-19…and am currently experiencing mild symptoms. Per CDC guidelines, I plan to isolate and work remotely,” she tweeted.

A number of other politicians and celebrities, including Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Minnesota Senator Tina Smith have also tested positive recently.

About one in 20 people in the US have turned to a ‘non-evidence-based’ treatment for Covid

Saturday 30 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A new study has found that many Americans used Covid treatments that weren’t rooted in science. The paper, published in JAMA Health Forum, found that six per cent of a sample of 13,438 people across the US reported using ivermectin or hydroxychloroquine to treat their Covid infection.

“Those who endorsed COVID-19 vaccine-related misinformation, had lower trust in hospitals and physicians and lower trust in scientists, and exhibited greater belief in conspiracy theories were more likely to report using one of these medicines,” the report found.

CDC provides updated data on Covid deaths

Saturday 30 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated data on Covid deaths for the week of 17 September through 23 September.

During that time, deaths increased eight per cent compared to the previous week.

Democrats more likely than Republicans to appreciate the benefits of the Covid vaccine, poll shows

Saturday 30 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

About 57 per cent of registered Republican voters believe the Covid vaccine wasn’t worth getting, compared to about five per cent of Democrats who feel similarly, according to a new poll from NBC News.

In total, about 69 per cent of vaccinated Americans thought the shot was worth getting.

Young, healthy people should have access to Paxlovid, some experts say

Friday 29 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Paxlovid has largely been recommended for older people or those who are otherwise “high-risk” for severe disease from Covid-19.

But some experts say the drug should be available to a larger group of people, advocating for expanded access to Paxlovid.

Though the drug might not be as beneficial for younger, otherwise healthy people, it can help, for example, by shortening the duration of symptoms caused by Covid by a day. As Dr Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist at UCSF, recently told Vox, “That one day is very meaningful to a lot of people.”

CDC provides updated Covid data on hospitalisations

Friday 29 September 2023 18:06 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided updated data on Covid hospitalisations for the week of 17 September through 23 September.

During that time, hospitalisations decreased 3.1 per cent compared to the previous week.

There were 19,079 hospitalisations during that time, the agency said.

Experts say people aren’t changing their behaviour in response to recent uptick in Covid cases

Friday 29 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

People are less likely to change their behaviour and re-implement preventative practices—like masking in public spaces—than they were in the past, despite a recent uptick in Covid cases during the last weeks of summer, experts say.

New research from NIH highlights link between Covid and cardiovascular disease

Friday 29 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

People infected with SARS-Cov-2, the virus that causes illness with Covid-19, may be at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke, according to new research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

New research from CDC provides more proof you should get vaccinated while pregnant

Friday 29 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Experts have long been encouraging expecting mothers to get vaccinated against Covid-19 to protect themselves and their newborns.

Now, a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adds to a growing body of research supporting this position. The paper found vaccination can help prevent mothers and their infants from needing hospitalisations or suffering “severe outcomes” from the virus.

Who can experience rebound symptoms of Covid-19?

00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

People who take Paxlovid to treat Covid may see a brief return of symptoms.

While the resurgence has been associated with the antiviral, it can also occur in people who don’t take the medication, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Symptoms may reappear two to eight days after finishing the medication, per GoodRX.

Rebound symptoms haven’t been associated with severe disease, and it’s still in your best interest to take Paxlovid if a healthcare provider recommends it for you, to lessen the severity of your Covid-19 symptoms, per the CDC.

How to tell the difference between Covid or another illness, like flu

20:12 , Maggie O’Neill

Some symptoms of Covid-19 can be similar to those caused by many other illnesses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

However, it may take longer for Covid symptoms to show up—compared with flu symptoms—and people may be infectious with Covid for longer.

But it can be difficult to tell which you’re dealing with without seeing a doctor. You should seek medical help to determine what’s causing your symptoms, especially if you took an at-home Covid test and it was negative, per the CDC. The only way to determine if you have the flu—and, thus, are eligible for flu treatments—is through a flu test at a doctor’s office.

Covid vaccines may cause vaginal bleeding for some, study finds

16:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A new study published in Science Advances found a link between the Covid vaccine and vaginal bleeding in some people.

The researchers behind the new report studied post-menopausal women, perimenopausal women, and premenopausal women for the study; they found that 3.3 per cent, 14.1 per cent, and 13.1 per cent of participants, respectively, experienced unexpected vaginal bleeding after vaccination.

The study notes that the correlation between vaccination and vaginal bleeding hasn’t been thoroughly studied; the authors of the new report said more research needs to be done on the topic to draw firm conclusions.

CDC urges parents to vaccinate children to protect them

11:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director Dr Mandy Cohen recently encouraged parents to protect their children by vaccinating them against Covid-19 this fall and winter.

“While we know kids are less impacted than adults from Covid, the unfortunate news is that kids can still get sick—and sometimes, really sick from Covid-19 just like adults,” she said in a video posted to the CDC’s account on X, formerly Twitter.

How to get Paxlovid for free if you test positive for Covid in New York City

06:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Per New York City Health and Hospitals, it’s possible to get a Paxlovid prescription for free if you test positive for Covid in the city.

To do so, residents can call 212-COVID-19 (212-268-4319).

Through the program, people can also get the medication delivered to their home at no cost.

New Yorkers can also get free at-home tests at some New York City libraries, museums, and zoos.

Travis Barker and Kourntey Kardashian hold ‘social distance’ baby shower after Barker tests positive for Covid

01:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Travis Barker and Kourtney Kardashian recently had a baby shower at Disneyland, according to reporting from Entertainment Tonight.

But due to Barker’s recent positive Covid test, the couple kept themselves distanced from their guests.

A photo posted to Kourtney’s Instagram story showed the couple sitting alone, away from their guests; another shot shows her mother Kris Jenner wearing a mask.

Minnesota senator tests positive for Covid

Wednesday 27 September 2023 22:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Minnesota Senator Tina Smith announced she tested positive for Covid, writing on X, formerly Twitter: “I tested positive for COVID…after developing mild symptoms Sunday night. I’ll stay here in Minnesota while following CDC guidelines.”

A number of celebrities and politicians have recently announced they tested positive for Covid, including Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Travis Barker, and Jimmy Kimmel.

Politicians are focused on the ‘next pandemic’, but constituents say that’s not enough

Wednesday 27 September 2023 19:00 , Maggie O’Neill

In recent weeks, policymakers have devoted time and funds to efforts to prevent the next pandemic.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) gave Northeastern University $17.5 million to open an infectious disease prevention centre.

But some are pushing back on this strategy, claiming that health authorities haven’t done enough to address Covid-19.

Ontario Ministry of Health slammed for not strongly encouraging masks

Wednesday 27 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A social media account of the Ontario Ministry of Health is being criticised for its messaging around Covid-19.

The department’s account on X, formerly Twitter, released a statement on ways to slow the spread of Covid-19, but notably did not list masking as a prevention tool.

Managers of the account then, reportedly, tried to censor replies to the tweet so conversation around masking would die down.

Some vaccine appointments are being cancelled, causing scheduling issues

Wednesday 27 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Some on social media are claiming their appointments for the updated Covid-19 vaccine are being cancelled.

These cancellations can cause problems for people who need their shot at a specific time—for instance, if they are trying to get vaccinated ahead of a big event, such as a wedding, or if they are trying to get vaccinated a certain number of weeks ahead of their flu shot.

People with long Covid have immune and hormonal differences when compared to people without the condition

Wednesday 27 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Scientists have uncovered two ways that people with long Covid are different from people without the condition, which may help experts determine how best to treat it.

The research, published 25 September in Nature, found that people with long Covid have “clear differences in immune and hormone function from patients without the condition”, a press release on the new report says.

“These findings are important,” study author Dr David Putrino said in the statement, “They can inform more sensitive testing for long Covid patients and personalised treatments for long Covid that have, until now, not had a proven scientific rationale.”

CDC releases new data on Covid hospitalisations

Wednesday 27 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

From 10 September to 16 September, hospitalisations from Covid went down for the first time in weeks, per new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Hospitalisations dropped 4.3 per cent compared to the previous week, the data show. Still yet, deaths increased 2. 7 percent during that same time frame.

Health authorities are urging Americans to stay up to date on all vaccines since the colder months could bring an uptick in Covid cases.

Nearly 18 million adults suffered from long Covid in 2022 alone

Tuesday 26 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Last year, 6.9 per cent of adults in the US experienced long Covid in 2022, according to new data from the US Census.

About one million children have also suffered from the condition, per reporting from ABC News.

Long Covid symptoms can take a significant toll on a person’s day-to-day functioning. They include fatigue, fever, chest pain, heart palpitations, sleep problems, headache, lightheadedness, muscle or joint pain, diarrhoea, and changes in menstrual cycles, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Covid drug linked to virus mutations, new study shows

Tuesday 26 September 2023 18:30 , Maggie O’Neill

A study published in Nature has found that an antiviral medication called Molnupiravir, which has been “widely used against SARS-CoV-2”, may be inducing virus mutations.

If patients who take the drug “do not clear” the virus, this could lead to increased transmission, the study found.

The study authors said public health authorities should continue to investigate the safety of the drug.

How long you should wear a mask after being exposed to Covid, per the CDC

Tuesday 26 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

If you’re exposed to Covid and you subsequently test negative, you should still take certain precautions to protect those around you, in case your test provided a false result.

Namely, you should wear a mask for 10 full days following the exposure, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). You shouldn’t go out in public without a face covering, the agency says.

You should also monitor yourself for fever, shortness of breath, cough, and other Covid symptoms.

Free Covid tests from the government may be expired, but you shouldn’t throw them out

Tuesday 26 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Americans can now order four free at-home tests from the US government at COVIDTests.gov.

But some of the tests may be past their original expiration dates when they arrive, the website warns.

If this happens to you, you shouldn’t throw out the new tests, as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed them safe to use. “Tests may show ‘expired’ dates on the box, but FDA has extended those dates,” the website says.

The agency has provided a list of all products that have received extended expiration dates here.

Before throwing out any Covid tests that appear to be expired—either the new ones you receive from the government or old ones you find stashed in your home—you should check to see if the products are on the list and, thus, still safe to use. If you find expired products that are not on the FDA’s list—or have passed the extended expiration date—they are not safe to use.

American Medical Association official explains why it’s crucial to get vaccinated against Covid this year

Tuesday 26 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Immunity from past infections and vaccinations may not provide you with the protection you need against Covid this cold and flu season, according to an official with the American Medical Association (AMA).

“New Covid variants have emerged. Vaccine and infection-induced immunity is beginning to wane, [and] this new vaccine will increase our immune response against circulating variants,” Dr Sandra Fryhofer, AMA liaison to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said in a recent interview.

Dr Fryhofer explained that health authorities, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), believe the new vaccine is the best option for protecting yourself against new variants. “Vaccine manufacturers say they should [provide protection], so does FDA,” she said. “In fact, FDA went on record saying studies suggest the new vaccines are a good match against circulating strains.”

Some people may want to space out their vaccines, FDA official says

Tuesday 26 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A top-ranking official at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently said he may space out his influenza and Covid vaccines, even though it’s safe to get both at the same time, per reporting from CBS News.

“Some people are saying, ‘Well, could I get RSV, Covid, and the flu vaccine on the same day?’” Dr Peter Marks, director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research at the FDA, said in a recent call with stakeholders. “Yes, indeed, you could. But, honestly, I might not.”

Dr Marks went on to explain that he recommends spacing out the vaccines—for people who live near a pharmacy—in order to lessen side effects like fever or fatigue.

This may not be a good option for people in rural areas, though, Dr Marks said. “I might just want to space them out a little bit,” he explained. “But if you had to drive a lot of miles to get the vaccines, then it might not be unreasonable to get all three of them [Covid, flu, and RSV] at once.”

Americans can now order free Covid tests from the government

Monday 25 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Starting today, Americans can order free Covid tests from the government. All households are eligible for four tests; orders can be placed at COVIDTests.gov.

To place an order, you need only to input your address and contact information.

President Biden receives updated Covid vaccine

Monday 25 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

President Biden received the updated Covid vaccine, now available in pharmacies nationwide, as well as his flu shot, according to a White House statement from the physician to the president.

The statement reiterated that almost all Americans are eligible for both shots.

“As we enter the cold and flu season, the President encourages all Americans to follow his example and to check with their healthcare provider or pharmacist to assure that they are fully vaccinated,” the statement said.

Biden administration awards millions to Covid test manufacturers

Monday 25 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Biden administration has awarded $600 million to Covid test manufacturers across the country, per the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

You should see a doctor for Covid if you develop these symptoms

Monday 25 September 2023 12:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Not everyone infected with Covid develops symptoms. But certain warning signs should prompt a visit to a hospital or urgent care centre.

According to Mass General Brigham, severe trouble breathing; new dizziness or confusion; persistent pressure or pain in the chest; inability to stay awake; and discoloration of the skin, nail beds, or lips all signal that you need emergent help.

Some counties in California are reinstating mask guidelines

Monday 25 September 2023 07:00 , Maggie O’Neill

As deaths and hospitalisations from Covid continue to rise, some California counties are requiring masks in certain settings again, NBC Bay Area reports.

Many counties will require people to mask in public areas like healthcare centres or jails, and some counties have said that people must wear masks in businesses, government offices, or public transportation hubs that require them.

Public health authorities urge Americans to stay home if they are sick

Monday 25 September 2023 02:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Staying home if you suspect you are ill will be crucial in reducing cases of respiratory viruses this year, experts say.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says people should stay home—even from work—if they’re experiencing any flu-like symptoms.

The agency also encourages employers to “review and communicate their sick leave policies and practices to employees every year before flu season begins” to make sure employees know what they’re allowed to do when they’re ill.

Experts say it’s fine to get flu and Covid vaccines together

Sunday 24 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

For those looking to minimise trips to the pharmacy, it is okay to get both the Covid and flu shots at the same time, public health authorities say.

How to get free Covid tests from the government

Sunday 24 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The federal government is restarting its mail-order Covid test program, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced this week.

Biden is restarting the free Covid test program. Here’s how to get one

Pandemic babies may have altered gut bacteria, study finds

Sunday 24 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Infants whose first year was spent during the pandemic have “fewer types of bacteria in their gut”, a report funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has found.

The authors noted that the differences observed in the pandemic babies could be due to “the social changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with infants potentially experiencing more time at home, less time in daycare interacting with other children, increased hygiene in the environment, changes to diet and breastfeeding practices, and increased caregiver stress”.

It’s too soon to say what this could mean for babies born during the pandemic, a press release on the new research says: “The authors say that…speculating on the health implications of gut microbiome differences should be done with caution.”

Singapore man jailed for deliberately exposing colleagues to Covid-19

Sunday 24 September 2023 12:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A 64-year-old man in Singapore was sentenced to two weeks in jail after deliberately coughing at two of his colleagues after testing positive for Covid. He wasn’t wearing a mask at the time.

Alisha Rahaman Sarkar reports:

Man jailed for coughing at colleagues while Covid positive

Some patients with insurance are being denied free Covid vaccines

Sunday 24 September 2023 07:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Government and private health insurance plans, including Medicare, are required to cover Pfizer and Moderna updated boosters for free.

But some people are reporting difficulties getting insurance to pay for their shot, per reporting from CNBC.

Some have complained on social media, explaining they were charged up to $190 for the vaccine, which reduces the chances of getting severely ill or dying from Covid-19.

CDC addresses myth that Covid-19 vaccination affects fertility

Saturday 23 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) countered false claims that Covid-19 vaccines affect fertility in a recent Instagram post.

The post shows a graphic of a woman asking, “Is it safe for me to get a COVID-19 vaccine if I would like to have a baby one day?”

The caption answers, “Yes. People who are trying to become pregnant now or who might become pregnant in the future may receive a [Covid] vaccine. There is no evidence that fertility problems are a side effect of any vaccine, including COVID-19 vaccines.”

Pregnant and Protected campaign helps expecting mothers lower their risks of serious illness from Covid-19

Saturday 23 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is highlighting a campaign aimed at helping pregnant people protect themselves from Covid.

The website for the program, called Pregnant and Protected, states that Covid-19 has made pregnancy even “more challenging for moms-to-be who want to keep themselves and their developing babies safe”.

More information on the campaign can be found at PregnantAndProtected.org.

Experts express concern over America’s vaccination record

Saturday 23 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released a statement warning of a potential tripledemic in the US in the coming months. This could happen if Covid-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) all peak at the same time, experts say.

To prevent this scenario, which could overwhelm hospitals and urgent care centres, experts are urging all who are eligible to get vaccinated against the three viruses.

A study from UCLA published in The New England Journal of Medicine last year found that flu vaccination rates declined in states that saw low rates of Covid-19 vaccination, suggesting that public health campaigns encouraging protection through vaccines haven’t been effective.

CDC releases new Covid tracking measurements

Saturday 23 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been providing weekly data on hospitalisations and deaths from Covid-19. Now the agency is also supplying numbers for the country’s test positivity rate and number of emergency room visits attributable to the virus.

From 10 September to 16 September, the test positivity rate in the US was 12.5 per cent, which was down 1.6 per cent from the previous week. During that same time frame, 1.9 per cent of emergency department visits were attributable to Covid-19, down 19.3 per cent from the previous week.

Experts urge pharmacists to inform patients free Covid vaccines are still available at select pharmacies

Saturday 23 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A photo of a sign taped to a pharmacy door in San Francisco has circulated on Twitter, with experts criticising its messaging. The sign emphasises that Covid vaccines are no longer free everywhere, and experts say this language is daunting. Dr Lucky Tran, director of science communications and media relations at Columbia University, tweeted, “This is intimidating and will only turn people who want to get vaccinated away.”

The Bridge Access Program, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), offers free updated Covid-19 vaccines to people who do not have health insurance (or those whose health insurance won’t cover the shot).

To find a pharmacy participating in the program and make an appointment, you can visit Vaccines.gov. After selecting which vaccine you’re looking for, you can filter for pharmacies that are participating in the program.

Ron DeSantis says he won’t provide funding for Covid vaccines if he’s elected president in 2024

Saturday 23 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

In a new interview with ABC News, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said he would not fund Covid vaccines if elected president in 2024.

“Well certainly we’re not going to fund them,” DeSantis said when asked about what his Covid vaccine policy would be. “Biden’s spending billions and billions of dollars on these…studies have not demonstrated the benefit of the boosters.”

Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend the updated Covid vaccinations, now available nationwide, for everyone six months and older. The vaccines help protect everyone eligible from severe disease or death from Covid-19.

Dr Fauci says long Covid trials ‘likely should have been done sooner’

Friday 22 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

In a new interview with MSNBC, Dr Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, discussed long Covid research and the Biden administration’s response to it. He said health authorities are “totally aware” that long Covid is a serious problem.

CDC releases new Covid data

Friday 22 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Deaths from Covid-19 rose 2.7 per cent from 10 September to 16 September compared to the previous week, per the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

During that same period, the test positivity rate was 12.5 per cent, and 1.9 per cent of emergency visits were diagnosed as Covid.

Hospitalisation data for that week is not yet available.

One-fourth of Americans think pandemic is worsening and worry about getting infected with Covid-19

Friday 22 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

According to the results of a new Gallup poll, Americans are still very concerned about Covid-19.

One in four said they felt the pandemic is worsening and that they were worried about getting infected with Covid.

Worry about contracting the virus has risen among both Democrats and Republicans in recent months, perhaps because the US has seen rising hospitalisations and deaths from the virus due to a summer surge in cases.

Jimmy Kimmel tests positive for Covid, cancels show

Friday 22 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Comedian Jimmy Kimmel has tested positive for Covid; as a result, he cancelled an upcoming show. Kimmel said he “could never live with” himself if he continued with the show and spread the virus.

CDC director urges seniors to get Covid vaccine

Friday 22 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

CDC Director Dr Mandy Cohen tweeted a video Wednesday explaining why older adults need to stay up to date on their vaccines.

“Older Americans, as we get into the fall and winter, are unfortunately at higher risk of bad things happening from respiratory viruses like flu, Covid, and [respiratory syncytial virus],” she said.

Biden to restart free Covid test program

Friday 22 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The Biden administration announced Wednesday free Covid tests will soon be available again, as experts warn the US could see a tripledemic of flu, Covid and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in the coming months.

Households can order four free tests from COVIDTests.gov starting 25 September, per a statement from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Steve Martin cancels shows due to Covid

Thursday 21 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Comedian Steve Martin released a statement 20 September announcing he has to cancel shows scheduled in Las Vegas due to Covid-19.

What bats could tell us about Covid-19

Thursday 21 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

A new paper published in Oxford University Press looked at how bats could help researchers learn more about SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19 illness.

Faiza Saqib reports:

Could bats hold the secret to beating Covid and cancer?

South Dakota Department of Health says there will be no state-wide mask mandate as CDC warns of a potential tripledemic

Thursday 21 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

The South Dakota Department of Health recently tweeted that the state would not implement a mask mandate during cold and flu season this year.

“While we anticipate an increase in COVID-19 during the upcoming respiratory virus season, the [department] has never issued a mask mandate and doesn’t plan to start now,” it said. “South Dakota will continue to stand as a beacon of Freedom to the rest of the world.”

Both hospitalisations and deaths from Covid have steadily risen in recent weeks, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency recently released a statement warning of the potential for a tripledemic in the coming months, in which cases of Covid, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) peak at the same time. Should this occur, healthcare systems across the country could see delays in routine care, such as preventative cancer screenings.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, 76, tests positive for Covid

Thursday 21 September 2023 10:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine tested positive for Covid-19 on Tuesday, per reporting from WLWT5.

He reportedly began experiencing symptoms on Monday, and had a 101-degree fever when he tested late Tuesday afternoon.

The governor is isolating at his home, and he encouraged people who have symptoms of Covid to get tested.

Getting reinfected with Covid-19 may worsen long Covid symptoms, experts say

Thursday 21 September 2023 05:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Getting Covid a second time puts patients at risk of long Covid again, even if they didn’t get it the first time, a new study using data from the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has found.

Study author Dr Ziyad Al-Aly said in an interview with STAT that getting Covid again can also worsen long Covid symptoms for those who were already suffering from it.

“If you had long Covid before, upon reinfection there is a risk of worsening problems,” he said. “You may have had brain fog and fatigue but not dysautonomia or other manifestations…Even if you’ve had it before, you’re trying your luck again.”

Vivek Ramaswamy says he regrets getting two doses of the Covid vaccine, though his wife disagrees

Thursday 21 September 2023 00:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he regrets getting two doses of the Covid vaccine, per reporting from NBC News.

His wife, Dr Apoorva Ramaswamy, a surgeon at Ohio State University, does not regret staying up to date on her vaccines. She told NBC News that she feels a responsibility to her patients, some of whom are cancer survivors, to protect herself so she can better protect them.

Ramaswamy said, “My wife and I disagree on things sometimes.”

Wastewater data show Covid cases may be declining

Wednesday 20 September 2023 21:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Covid hospitalisations and deaths have steadily risen for the last several weeks, as the US sees the effect of a summer surge.

From 3 September to 9 September, hospitalisations from the virus rose 7.7 per cent compared to the previous week, the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show.

But new data show the summer surge may be slowing down. Wastewater detections of Covid were at their highest this summer around August 30, data from Biobot Analytics show. But from 6 September to 13 September, levels dropped by about 5 per cent.

Still yet, levels are more than three times higher than they were prior to the summer surge, in late June.

CDC warns of potential tripledemic during the upcoming cold and flu season

Wednesday 20 September 2023 18:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Federal health authorities are urging Americans to stay up to date on all vaccines to avoid slowing down the healthcare system during cold and flu season.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new statement on the potential for a “tripledemic”, in which cases of Covid-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) all circulate at the same time and are massively disruptive to urgent care centres and hospitals.

CDC urges vaccination, warns of ‘tripledemic’ winter as Covid, RSV and flu collide

American Academy of Family Physicians encourages protection with updated Covid-19 vaccines

Wednesday 20 September 2023 15:00 , Maggie O’Neill

Health authorities across the country are urging Americans to stay up-to-date with their Covid vaccines to protect against severe disease from the virus.

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recently said it was “encouraged” the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) signed off on the new vaccines.