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The nation's flu positivity test rate reached nearly 10 percent in mid-April, making it the first time such an increase has occurred so late in the flu season since 1982 (NBC News)
May 6, 2022
The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV2 virus is intrinsically as severe as previous variants, according to a preprint version of a large U.S. study that counters assumptions in other studies that it was more transmissible but less severe. (Reuters)
May 2, 2022
COVID-19 cases are rising in nearly every corner of the United States, yet hospitalizations remain low, partly a reflection of greater immunity in the population. (NY Times)
Apr 26, 2022
CDC estimates that 3 in 4 children have had COVID-19 infections and more than half of all Americans had signs of previous infections (US News)
Apr 21, 2022
A viral offspring of the BA.2 COVID-19 subvariant, called BA.2.12.1, is gaining a foothold in the United States. The variant appears to be more transmissible than BA.2, but there is no evidence yet that it causes more severe disease. (Verywell Health)
Apr 11, 2022
Philadelphia is bringing back its indoor mask mandate beginning April 18 after a 50% increase in Covid-19 cases in the past 10 days. (Bloomberg)
Apr 7, 2022
A U.S. appeals court panel on Thursday reinstated President Joe Biden's executive order mandating that federal civilian employees be vaccinated against COVID-19. (Reuters)
Apr 7, 2022
The Omicron subvariant known as BA.2 is the dominant strain circulating around the U.S., accounting for almost three out of every four cases. (Axios)
Apr 5, 2022
FDA pulls authorization for GSK-Vir's COVID therapy as BA.2 cases rise. Data suggests these treatments are unlikely to be effective against the dominant Omicron sub-variant in the country. (Reuters)
Mar 29, 2022
FDA authorizes second coronavirus booster shot for people 50 and older, a decision intended to help shore up protection against severe illness. (Washington Post)
Mar 25, 2022
Nationwide, COVID-19 cases decreased 15 percent over the past 14 days, according to HHS data collected by The New York Times. But as the more contagious omicron subvariant BA.2 continues to spread, cases are ticking upward in 10 states and D.C. as of March 25. (Becker's Hospital Review)
Mar 23, 2022
Moderna will seek emergency authorization of its vaccine for young children. Children under 5, a group of about 18 million, are the only Americans still not eligible for shots. (New York Times)
Mar 23, 2022
School mask mandates in the U.S. reduced COVID-19 Delta variant transmission by 72%, a study finds. (CityBeat)
Mar 23, 2022
Moderna’s two-dose Covid vaccine was about 44% effective at preventing infection from omicron in children 6 months to under 2 years old and about 38% effective for children 2- to 5-years-old
Mar 22, 2022
After weeks in free fall, new Covid-19 cases are starting to level off in the US, as the BA.2 subvariant continues its ascent. (CNN)
Mar 22, 2022
Omicron BA.2 variant now represents more than 50% of COVID cases in parts of Northeast, CDC estimates (Wall Street Journal)
Mar 22, 2022
While the new Omicron variant circulates, the U.S. Travel Association on Tuesday urged the White House to lift COVID-19 travel restrictions and repeal a mandate requiring masks on airplanes and in other transit modes by April 18. (Reuters)
Mar 21, 2022
Multiple U.S. states will close mass COVID testing sites in the following weeks despite concerns from health experts that the country will be unprepared if a new wave of cases hits following reported surges in European countries. (Seattle Times)
Mar 21, 2022
Some scientists think we might be rolling up our sleeves each year not just for flu shots, but for COVID-19 vaccine, too. (CNN)
Mar 21, 2022
China battles biggest surge in Covid cases since original Wuhan outbreak. China says it recorded more than 4,300 new Covid-19 cases on March 20, according to the National Health Commission.
Mar 20, 2022
About 95% of Americans 16 and older have antibodies against COVID-19 as of December, the most recent date that data is available, according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CNN)
Mar 19, 2022
“I expect we’ll see a wave in the U.S. sooner than what most people expect,” said Kristian Andersen, a virologist at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, Calif. "Such a wave would be accompanied by rising hospitalizations and deaths.” (New Yotk Times)
Mar 19, 2022
A study has shown 49.6% of those with long COVID reported they had difficulty getting medical professionals to take their symptoms seriously. 78% of people who reported they had long COVID symptoms during the study stated they experienced difficulties with concentration.
Feb 23, 2022
Flu season has been mild and is waning, but CDC is not willing to call it over. Despite a circulating strain of influenza that usually causes severe illness, this season has been mild. However, experts say a late winter or spring surge is possible. (NBC News)
Feb 1, 2022
Pfizer-BioNTech are expected to submit to the FDA as early as Tuesday a request for emergency-use authorization for their COVID-19 vaccine for children 6 months to 5 years old. Those familiar with the situation indicate the vaccine for children under 5 could be available by the end of February (Washington Post)
Jan 19, 2022
Three separate lab studies indicate Paxlovid, Pfizer's COVID pill, is effective against the Omicron variant despite its mutations (Wall Street Journal)
Jan 19, 2022
COVID-19 cases in NYC show Omicron infections may be plummeting, a positive indication that the wave of the highly infectious variant may subside as quickly as it arrived.
Jan 18, 2022
The USPS is now taking orders for free COVID-19 test kits and will prioritize shipments to Americans from ZIP codes that have experienced high rates of COVID-19 cases and deaths, with the first 20% of each day's orders going to those areas. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The omicron-driven surge has sent COVID-19 hospitalizations skyrocketing across the U.S., reaching a new pandemic high this week with 145,982 patients hospitalized. Patients with COVID now fill about 30% of ICU beds in the nation. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The Biden administration announced Monday that insurance companies and health plans will be required to cover eight free over-the-counter at-home tests per covered individual per month. For instance, a family of four all on the same plan would be able to get up to 32 of these tests covered by their health plan per month. (NPR)
Jan 11, 2022
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. State Department on Monday advised against travel to neighboring Canada because of a rising number of COVID cases as the omicron variant spreads. (NBC News)
Jan 4, 2022
Nearly 1 in 100 Americans have tested positive for the virus in just the last week, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Over 1 million cases were reported in the U.S. on Monday alone, which is the highest during the Pandemic. (USA Today)
Jan 4, 2022
The Omicron variant accounted for more than 95% of all new COVID-19 cases reported in the past week that ended Saturday, up from 77% and 38% for the prior two weeks, respectively. (CDC)
Jan 3, 2022
The Omicron coronavirus variant is better at circumventing vaccinated peoples' immunity than the Delta variant, according to a Danish study published last week, helping explain why Omicron is spreading more rapidly. (Reuters)
Jan 3, 2022
According to the FDA, “Early data suggests that antigen tests do detect the omicron variant but may have reduced sensitivity,” citing findings from a preliminary lab study shared Dec. 28. This means that more false negative antigen tests are possible, particularly in the early stages of the disease.
Dec 28, 2021
Despite the spread of the Omicron variant, the U.S. has only a 62% vaccination rate with the least vaccinated counties remaining unswayed (NY Times)
Dec 28, 2021
Rising COVID-19 cases contributed to airlines canceling more than 1,000 flights on Monday, prompting Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert, to suggest the government consider mandating vaccines for domestic flights. (Reuters)
Dec 28, 2021
The CDC has cut the amount of time it recommends people should isolate after testing positive for COVID-19 from 10 days to 5. Health officials similarly reduced the amount of time a person should quarantine after coming into contact with someone who tests positive. (USA Today)
Dec 22, 2021
FDA authorizes Pfizer’s Covid treatment pill, the first oral antiviral drug cleared during the pandemic (CNBC)
Dec 20, 2021
Fauci: Pfizer’s possibly game-changing COVID-19 pill won’t be widely available for ‘months’ (Forbes)
Dec 17, 2021
CDC has narrowed use of J&J vaccine, officially recommending the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines when they are available. The recommendation follows growing concerns about rare blood clots associated with the J&J vaccine.
Dec 16, 2021
The CDC has warned that the rapidly spreading Omicron variant could bring a COVID-19 punishing wave as soon as January, while indicating existing vaccine regimen plus boosters are effective in protecting against serious illness and death. (Washington Post)
Dec 16, 2021
United States stands on the cusp of surpassing 800,000 deaths from the virus, with 600,000 of those deaths being people 65 and older. In fact, One in 100 older Americans has died from the virus. In fact, 1 in 100 older Americans has died from the virus. (New York Times)
Dec 12, 2021
Omicron may require fourth vaccine dose sooner than expected, Pfizer says (Washington Post)
Dec 7, 2021
Researchers in South Africa, where the Omicron COVID-19 variant is spreading quickly, say it may cause less serious COVID cases than other forms of the virus, but it is unclear whether that will hold true. (NY Times)
Dec 1, 2021
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Omicron COVID-19 variant has now been identified in at least 24 countries, including the United States with the first reported case being identified in California. (NPR, New York Times)
Nov 29, 2021
The World Health Organization is warning that the new omicron variant of the coronavirus poses a "very high" global risk because of the possibility that it spreads more easily and might resist vaccines and immunity in people who were infected with previous strains. (NPR)
Nov 28, 2021
S.African doctor says patients with Omicron variant have "very mild" symptoms (Reuters)
Nov 19, 2021
FDA has authorized COVID booster shots for all fully vaccinated Americans who are age 18 and older for both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. CDC will make the final determination on Friday.
Nov 5, 2021
Pfizer antiviral pill reduced risk of covid hospitalization and death by 89 percent in high-risk people, company study shows. The protective effect was so convincing that an independent panel monitoring a trial of the drug advised it be stopped early. (Washington Post)
Nov 3, 2021
CDC has officially recommended the pediatric dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, opening the door for 28 million US kids to be vaccinated. This decision follows "robust" antibody response and "favorable" safety outcomes in kids who received the two-dose regimen in clinical trials. (CDC, NPR)
Oct 29, 2021
FDA has emergency use authorized (EUA) the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children 5 to 11 for. Experts said the shot could bring relief to parents anxious about their children getting sick, though some worry that those most at risk may slip through the cracks. (NY Times)
Oct 26, 2021
FDA advisory panel has unanimously recommended Pfizer’s low-dose COVID vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11. The endorsement was a critical step in getting more kids in the U.S. protected against the virus. The agency doesn’t always follow the advice of its independent committee, but it often does. (CNBC)
Oct 21, 2021
For individuals who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months ago, the following groups are eligible for a COVID booster shot: (1) 65 years and older, (2) Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings, (3) Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions, and (4) Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings. For people who got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those who are 18+ and who were vaccinated two or more months ago. (CDC)
Oct 15, 2021
U.S. FDA advisers vote to recommend Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine booster for people 18 and older at least 2 months after first dose. (Reuters)
Oct 14, 2021
FDA vaccine advisers recommend emergency use authorization for booster dose of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine to people 65 and older and to those 18 to 64 with risk factors for severe illness. (CNN)
Oct 11, 2021
Demand for rapid at-home COVID tests has been high, and shoppers find either empty shelves in drugstores or get “out of stock” messages online as companies rushing to meet demand (WHYY / NPR)
Oct 7, 2021
Los Angeles will require residents and visitors to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine in order to eat, drink, or shop in indoor establishments across the city. Under this mandate, eligible patrons will need to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to enter restaurants, bars, coffee shops, stores, gyms, spas or salons. People attending large, outdoor events will also need to show evidence of either vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test to attend the event. It's set to take effect sometime in November. (NPR)
Oct 7, 2021
Starting Oct. 30, the Canadian government will require all air travelers and passengers on interprovincial trains to be vaccinated against COVID-19. (USA Today)
Oct 7, 2021
Pfizer asked the U.S. government Thursday to allow use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11, formally filing its application with the FDA. If regulators agree, shots could begin within a matter of weeks. (AP)
Oct 6, 2021
In a study of 3.4 million people at Kaiser Permanente Southern California between Dec 14, 2020 and Aug 8, 2021 it has been found that Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine remains highly protective against hospitalization and death. SARS-CoV-2 infection protection of fully vaccinated individuals was found to be 73%, and COVID-19-induced hospitalization protection was 90%. The effectiveness against infections dropped from 88% during the first month following full vaccination to 47% after 5 months. (news-medical.net)
Oct 6, 2021
The Biden administration on Wednesday announced a new $1 billion investment in home coronavirus tests that will quadruple the nation's supply of these rapid tests by early December, officials said. (USA Today)
Oct 1, 2021
About a third of parents say they want to vaccinate their 5-to-11-year-old children “right away” once a coronavirus vaccine is available for that age group, according to a report from the Kaiser Family Foundation. (Washington Post)
Sep 28, 2021
Pfizer submits data to FDA, seeking emergency use authorization (EUA) for its COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 These younger kids could be vaccinated by Halloween, Pfizer CEO says. (NBC News)
Sep 27, 2021
Tens of thousands of health care workers in New York appeared to be risking their jobs by defying the state mandate to receive a dose of a coronavirus vaccine by Monday, setting up an early test for similar employer mandates across the United States. (New York Times)
Sep 27, 2021
The COVID pandemic has become the deadliest outbreak in American history. According to data from Johns Hopkins University 681,253 individuals in the U.S. have died from COVID-19, with an estimated 675,000 people during the 1918 flu pandemic. (Smithsonian)
Sep 24, 2021
The CDC has announced recommendations for booster shots and who should receive them:
(1) People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series,(2) People aged 50–64 years with underlying medical conditions should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series,(3) People aged 18–49 years with underlying medical conditions may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks, and(4) People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting may receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their Pfizer-BioNTech primary series, based on their individual benefits and risks.
Sep 23, 2021
The FDA has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for a booster dose of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine in people 65 and older, people at high risk of severe disease, and people whose jobs put them at risk of infection. (CNN)
Sep 20, 2021
Pfizer reports a low dose of their COVID vaccine is safe and effective in children ages 5 to 11 and are seeking emergency use authorization as they continue to accumulate data to support an application for full approval in children. (Washington Post)
Sep 14, 2021
Top U.S. health officials believe that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine could be authorized for children aged 5-11 years old by the end of October (Reuters)
Sep 13, 2021
According to the CDC, it is safe and effective to get both a COVID booster and a flu shot at the same time. (Washington Post)
Sep 9, 2021
President Biden and the U.S. Department of Labor will issue a rule requiring businesses with more than 100 employees to have their workers vaccinated or tested weekly, officials said on Thursday.
Sep 9, 2021
Authorities are expecting an active flu season this year, threatening hospitals already struggling to keep up with COVID-19 strains. There is hope that COVID and flu vaccines will keep case counts low this winter. (Wall Street Journal)
Sep 8, 2021
COVID-19 testing infrastructure nationally struggles to keep up with Delta variant demand. President Biden will address the situation laying out the next phase of the federal pandemic response.
Sep 7, 2021
World Health Organization (WHO): COVID-19 is likely “here to stay” as the virus continues to mutate similarly to the influenza (flu) pandemic viruses. (CNBC)
Aug 23, 2021
U.S. FDA has officially granted full approval to Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
Aug 19, 2021
As the Delta variant spreads through the US, demand for COVID testing has risen to levels previously seen in November of 2020. Urgent care centers are again on the front lines of care and experiencing record high patient volumes.
Aug 18, 2021
CDC: COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines “may now be administered without regard to timing.” This includes receiving COVID-19 and flu vaccines on the same day, as well as co-administration within 14 days. (CDC)
Aug 17, 2021
The flu vaccine may lower the risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Researchers studied nearly 75,000 COVID-19 patients, half of whom had received the most recently available flu shot.
Aug 15, 2021
CDC reports that COVID-19 has caused more pediatric deaths than the flu since the pandemic began.
Aug 13, 2021
Pediatric hospitals are seeing a spike in RSV cases as COVID-19 Delta variant continues, flu season approaches.
Aug 4, 2021
The Delta variant now accounts for about 93% of all COVID-19 cases in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Aug 3, 2021
The seven-day average of daily COVID cases in the U.S. surpassed the peak seen last summer when the nation didn’t have an authorized vaccine, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said. Friday July 30 saw 72,790 new COVID cases nationwide.
Jul 27, 2021
California to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or regular testing for all state employees and health care workers. Additionally, some San Francisco restaurants and bars will soon require proof of vaccination prior to admittance.
Jul 27, 2021
CDC is now recommending vaccinated people wear masks indoors as number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise.
Jul 9, 2021
A top state official stated Tuesday that every person who died from COVID-19 in Maryland last month was unvaccinated, inline with recent evidence that the vaccine has made nearly all coronavirus-related deaths nationwide avoidable.
Jul 9, 2021
Current guidance from the CDC says fully vaccinated people can refrain from routine COVID testing, however, some experts are questioning whether that approach should change given the spread of the new Delta variant.
Jul 9, 2021
Pfizer to seek U.S. authorization for COVID booster shot. Based on evidence of increased risk of reinfection six months after inoculation and the propagation of the extremely contagious Delta variant, Pfizer plans to petition US authorities to approve a booster dosage of its COVID-19 vaccine within the next month, the drugmaker's chief scientist said on Thursday.
Jul 9, 2021
CDC says no COVID booster doses needed right now: "Americans who have been fully vaccinated do not need a booster shot at this time," read a joint statement sent Thursday from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration.
Jul 7, 2021
Children have found a manipulative method generate false-positive COVID tests using soft drinks, all in an effort to get out of school.
May 17, 2021
53.1% of California residents have received their first vaccine dose. 38.4% of residents have completed vaccination.
May 14, 2021
Walmart, the nation's largest retailer, says fully vaccinated employees and customers will not need to wear a mask inside stores beginning on Tuesday, based on the latest guidance from the CDC.
May 14, 2021
Target, Home Depot, CVS and Harris Teeter are among the chains that will continue to require masks in store, though they are reviewing new CDC guidance and reevaluating store policies.
May 13, 2021
CDC: If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal or territorial laws, incl. local business and workplace guidance.
May 10, 2021
The FDA has authorized Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in adolescents 12 and older. This announcement came after Pfizer’s recent trial of the vaccine in adolescents which demonstrated that the vaccine is at least as effective as it is in adults.
May 5, 2021
Walgreens will offer same-day COVID vaccination appointments in all retail locations nationwide beginning Wednesday, with walk-in appointments available at select stores as well. Since vaccinations began in December, Walgreens says it has administered more than 15 million vaccine doses. (nbc)
May 4, 2021
The Food and Drug Administration is expected to authorize Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine for administration to adolescents by early next week, according to a federal health official with knowledge of the agency's plans. The move would allow many American middle- and high-school students to be vaccinated against COVID-19 well before the start of the next school year, using a shot Pfizer claims demonstrated "100% efficacy" in children as young as 12 years old with side effects similar to those that have occurred in young adults. (CBS News)
May 3, 2021
The number of Americans fully vaccinated against COVID tops 100 million. This means 39% of the nation's adult population has been fully vaccinated. (abc)
May 3, 2021
The U.S. announced it will restrict travel from India starting Tuesday, citing the devastating rise in COVID-19 cases in the country and the emergence of potentially dangerous variants of the coronavirus. While the overall number of lives lost to COVID-19 in the U.S. has eclipsed 575,000, deaths have plummeted to an average of about 670 per day from a peak of around 3,400 in mid-January. (abc)
Apr 29, 2021
People with a history or risk of lymphedema in both arms, who have (or had) breast cancer, and people who need a mammogram within six weeks of their Covid-19 vaccine should consider seeking a vaccine site that will administer the vaccine in their thigh. “I just advise patients to call ahead, let the vaccine clinic know or the pharmacy know that they’re asking for the vaccine in the thigh,” said Cheryl Brunelle, the associate director of the Lymphedema Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. “I also counsel patients that if a local facility or practitioner giving the vaccine is not familiar with the thigh as an approved alternate site, the patient can share the C.D.C. Standing Orders document that lists the thigh as an alternative site for both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.”
Apr 28, 2021
The United States is reporting an average of 2.7 million daily COVID-19 vaccinations over the past week, according to data from the CDC, about equivalent to levels one month ago. Daily reported vaccinations peaked at 3.4 million on April 13. More than 40% of Americans have received at least one shot, and that figure is roughly 54% for those age 18 and older. Half of the adults are at least partially vaccinated in a majority of states. (CNBC)
Apr 27, 2021
The rate of COVID-19 vaccinations in the U.S. continued to slide in recent days, according to CDC data, as the seven-day average of daily shots reported administered fell to 2.7 million on Monday, the lowest level since late March.
Apr 27, 2021
The CDC on Tuesday eased guidelines on mask-wearing for Americans, noting many outdoor activities are now safe without a mask following significant progress with the COVID-19 vaccine and reductions in new daily cases nationwide.
Apr 26, 2021
Encouraged by the results of an 11-district pilot program, the state of California is now expanding access to cover any school district’s or charter school’s cost of rapid diagnostic Covid testing of students and staff through the summer and likely into the fall.
Apr 26, 2021
As of Sunday, April 25, Virginia has had 654,210 total cases of COVID-19, including confirmed lab tests and clinical diagnoses, according to the Virginia Department of Health. That total reflects a 884 case increase since Saturday. The Virginia Department of Health reports a 6.1% 7-day positivity rate for total testing encounters, and a 5.5% 7-day positivity rate for PCR tests. 16 additional deaths were reported on Sunday, leaving the death toll at 10,691.
Apr 23, 2021
A single dose of Oxford-AstraZeneca or Pfizer-BioNTech’s Covid-19 vaccine reduces the risk of infection by 65% in adults of all ages, British researchers have found.
Apr 23, 2021
A CDC advisory committee called the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is set to meet on Friday to continue its discussion of the rare blood clots seen in a small number of patients who have received Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine.
Apr 23, 2021
CDC: Johnson & Johnson vaccine administration should be resumed immediately with a warning about potential rare blood clots
Apr 22, 2021
More than 86 million U.S. adults are now fully vaccinated with more than 200 million shots administered, but experts fear that enthusiasm for getting the vaccine could be falling and many Americans may be too eager to take off their masks.
Apr 21, 2021
31.2% of Louisiana residents have received their first vaccine dose. 24.1% of residents have completed vaccination.
Apr 21, 2021
One of the largest reports on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy boosts evidence that it is safe although the authors say more comprehensive research is needed.The study consisted of 35,000 U.S. women who received either the Moderna or Pfizer shots while pregnant. Their rates of miscarriage, premature births and other complications were comparable to those observed in published reports on pregnant women before the pandemic.
Apr 19, 2021
According to data compiled by Denver Public Health, Latinos comprise only 13 percent of city residents who have gotten an initial shot, compared to 72 percent of white residents (the race and/or ethnicity of at least 12 percent of people who got their first vaccine is unknown). Meanwhile, Latinos make up 48 percent of COVID-19 cases in the city and 30 percent of the city’s overall population.
Apr 19, 2021
Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine, which currently requires two doses and is said to be over 90 percent effective against the virus, will likely include a third shot made available later this year.
Apr 18, 2021
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced that half of all US adults have received at least one COVID shot. Nearly 130 million people 18 and older, or 50.4% of the total adult population, have received at least one dose of a vaccine. Almost 84 million adults, or about 32.5% of the population, have been fully vaccinated. (CDC)
Apr 16, 2021
Pfizer CEO announced that recipients of their vaccine will likely need a booster shot within 12 months. He stated that "I think for planning purposes only, we should expect that we may have to boost.” A booster shot may be an important safeguard against new variants of the COVID-19 virus. (nbc)
Apr 15, 2021
Dr. Fauci says this is a pause and not a cancellation of the Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine. It will likely last days to weeks to determine next steps. "I doubt very seriously if we're talking about weeks to months," he told CNN on Wednesday.
Apr 13, 2021
CDC and FDA recommend US pause use of Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine over blood clot concerns; six reported US cases of a "rare and severe" type of blood clot caused the initial concern.
Apr 9, 2021
Just short of 20 percent of the U.S. population was fully vaccinated, giving some 66 million people a strong measure of protection against a disease that has already killed more than 500,000 Americans. (Washington Post)
Apr 6, 2021
Vaccination eligibility is opening up throughout the country. However, there are more people eligible for a vaccine right now than there are doses. Securing an appointment continues to be a long, difficult process for many. Here are 10 tips for getting a vaccine sooner →
Apr 6, 2021
President Joe Biden is expected to announce that states should open COVID-19 vaccine appointments to all U.S. adults by April 19, moving up his original deadline by nearly two weeks, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki confirmed Tuesday.
Apr 6, 2021
Epidemiologists and other public health experts are debating whether to use rapid COVID-19 tests as admission tickets to schools, businesses and entertainment and sports venues. Even with the quickening pace of vaccinations, it will be months before all Americans who want COVID-19 vaccines receive them. As a result, testing could become ubiquitous as a requirement for students, office workers, spectators and visitors seeking to gather indoors.
Apr 3, 2021
More than 4 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine were administered in the past 24 hours, setting a new record and bringing the seven-day average over 3 million a day, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Saturday.
Apr 3, 2021
Pfizer/BioNTech have announced their COVID-19 vaccine affords at least 6 months of protection following the second dose. The vaccine was 91.3% effective against COVID-19 in an analysis of 927 symptomatic people through March 13, as indicated by real-world data compiled since the vaccine was given emergency use authorization. This compares to 95% efficacy reported in the interim results that were announced on Nov. 18, 2020.
Apr 3, 2021
State health data shows Kern County has distributed over 300,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine with thousands being given each day.
Apr 3, 2021
More than 100 million people in the U.S. have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Friday. The news comes just two weeks after President Joe Biden announced he reached his 100-day goal of administering 100 million doses and expanded his goal to 200 million. As of Thursday, 157.6 million doses have been administered, according to CDC data. More than 200 million doses have been delivered to states and vaccine providers.
Apr 3, 2021
California health officials announced changes Friday that will allow a resumption of indoor activities such as concerts, conferences and theater performances — and a return of fans to indoor sporting events, subject to the approval of local health authorities, who are permitted in each county to impose stricter regulations than the state allows. The new rules will take effect April 15.
Apr 3, 2021
Offering increasing evidence that the pandemic is loosening its grip on the region, Los Angeles County dipped below 600 coronavirus-related hospitalizations for the first time since March 2020, state public health officials announced Friday.
Apr 3, 2021
The Biden administration on Saturday put Johnson & Johnson in charge of a Baltimore manufacturing plant that ruined 15 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine, and stopped the facility from making another vaccine developed by AstraZeneca.
Apr 2, 2021
Fauci said the United States has enough contracts with other vaccine makers to vaccinate its entire population, and may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine even for booster shots in the fall
Apr 2, 2021
Health officials in San Jose—the Bay Area's largest county—say they're seeing a dramatic drop in testing for COVID-19. They're also reminding the public to think twice before gathering in large groups this holiday weekend.
Apr 2, 2021
Humboldt County health officials urge residents to continue getting tested for COVID. Testing in Humboldt County is offered at no charge seven days a week (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) at Redwood Acres in Eureka and is also available at various locations throughout the county each weekday. Walk-ins are welcome at all sites, and turnaround time for results averages 48 to 72 hours.
Apr 2, 2021
A recent study of 131 women recently conducted by Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston and published in The American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology shows the COVID vaccines are not only safe and effective for pregnant and breastfeeding women, they may also offer some protection for their babies.
Apr 1, 2021
FDA approves two new over-the-counter COVID tests: Abbott's BinaxNOW and Quidel Quickvue tests will soon be available at drug stores in two-packs for between $15 and $20.
Mar 31, 2021
Pfizer says its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and 100% effective in preventing the illness in ages 12 to 15 and plans to request emergency use authorization extending vaccine administration to the adolescent age group.
Mar 31, 2021
Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC: "Vaccinated people do not carry the virus — they don’t get sick.” Walensky was referring to a new CDC study that suggests those fully inoculated with the vaccines produced by Moderna and Pfizer don’t transmit the virus.
Mar 30, 2021
Ninety percent of Americans will be eligible for their shots by April 19, President Joe Biden said yesterday as he expanded the number of vaccine sites. More than a dozen states are opening vaccines to all adults this week.
Mar 30, 2021
Beginning Thursday, Californians ages 50 and up in all 58 counties can officially get vaccinated through regular channels such as public health departments and health care providers. And two weeks later, on April 15, all Californians 16 and older will become eligible for a vaccine.
Mar 25, 2021
Pregnant mothers pass COVID antibodies to their newborns. A large study at Massachusetts General Hospital has determined that mothers pass COVID immunity to their children through the placenta and breastmilk. [harvard.edu]
Mar 25, 2021
Governor Gavin Newsom announced Thursday that California will open up coronavirus vaccine eligibility to people 50 and older on April 1, and to everyone 16 and older on April 15. Appointments may not be available immediately, but vaccine supply is expected to increases significantly in the coming weeks.
Mar 15, 2021
Vaccination opens to adults with pre-existing health conditions.
Mar 11, 2021
As of March 13, CVS has added 12 more states to its list of pharmacies offering vaccinations. The new states are: Colorado, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah and Vermont. After previously expanding to New York and Pennsylvania.
Mar 9, 2021
Beginning March 15, healthcare providers in California may use their clinical judgement to vaccinate individuals who are deemed to be at the very highest risk for complications from COVID-19.
Mar 1, 2021
The FDA has authorized use of Johnson & Johnson's single-dose vaccine.
Feb 25, 2021
Pfizer expects to triple its vaccine production by mid-March. An FDA advisory board will meet to determine whether to grant Johnson & Johnson an EAU.
Feb 12, 2021
Kroger, Walmart, Rite-Aid, CVS and Walgreens to begin administering vaccines February 12, 2021
Jan 13, 2021
Vaccine eligibility granted to seniors 65 and older.
COVID-19 Pill FAQs
When will I be eligible for the COVID pill in Fresno, CA?
The COVID pill, according to the FDA, is only for people who have already been infected with COVID-19. If you test positive for COVID, you must see a doctor or another registered healthcare practitioner to obtain a prescription for the drug.
What is the COVID pill treatment?
According to the FDA, COVID pill treatment is an oral antibody drug meant to reduce the risk of severe COVID symptoms. The pills can be used at home, just like any other prescription medication. Paxlovid is a five-day treatment that entails taking three pills twice a day for five days. The Molnupiravir treatment consists of four pills administered every 12 hours for five days.
How does the COVID pill treatment work?
The two medications work in distinct ways, according to FDA officials. Paxlovid stops the virus from making an enzyme that is necessary for reproduction. As the virus replicates, molnupiravir causes it to mutate and become ineffective.
How long does the COVID pill treatment last?
Both Paxlovid and molnupiravir can be administered for five days, according to FDA guidelines.
Will the COVID pill be covered by my insurance?
The US government provides COVID pills free of charge. If you have health insurance, your doctor's office or pharmacy may charge your insurance company an administrative fee.The US government provides COVID pills free of charge. If you have health insurance, your doctor's office or pharmacy may charge your insurance company an administrative fee.
What pharmacies are administering the COVID pill?
State-by-state, the pharmacies that will be distributing the COVID pill will differ. Supplies are expected to be restricted at first until manufacturers are able to scale up manufacturing. Your doctor will be able to recommend a pharmacy where you may complete your prescription.
Do I need to be a US resident to receive the COVID pill?
You don't have to be a US resident to get the COVID pill as long as you meet the other requirements (as outlined by the FDA). The Pfizer COVID pill is approved for use in anyone aged 12 and above who are at high risk of hospitalization. The Merck pill is only available to high-risk adults.
Will I be able to receive the COVID pill if I've already contracted COVID-19?
Only people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 should take the COVID pill. Treatment must begin within five days of the commencement of symptoms, according to FDA recommendations.
How many doses of the COVID pill will I need?
Both prescriptions should be taken for five days, according to the FDA, although the doses are different. Paxlovid is taken three times a day for a total of 30 pills. Molnupiravir is taken twice a day in the form of four pills for a total of forty doses.
Where can I get a COVID pill treatment in Fresno, CA?
Make an appointment with a doctor right once to be tested for COVID if you are experiencing COVID symptoms. If you test positive for HIV and are at high risk of being admitted to the hospital, your doctor can prescribe a COVID pill and tell you where to get it. Some pharmacies may be able to deliver a fast COVID test as well as the medication in the same visit. Find a Fresno COVID testing provider near you in our directory.
COVID Pill Treatment in Fresno, CA
COVID-19 must be detected early in order to receive successful treatment, especially for patients who are at high risk of hospitalization. You can receive a same-day or next-day appointment for a rapid COVID test when you schedule with Solv. We collaborate with thousands of top-rated healthcare providers across the country to make it easy for people to find and receive the care they need. Using our directory, find a healthcare practitioner near you and schedule an appointment online.
Paxlovid and molnupiravir are two novel antiviral pills licensed by the FDA for the treatment of COVID-19. Paxlovid is made by Pfizer, while molnupiravir is made by Merck. These drugs can significantly lower the risk of hospitalization and mortality in COVID-19-infected high-risk patients, according to FDA-reported clinical research results.
What is a COVID pill treatment?
COVID pill treatment, according to the FDA, is intended for people who have already been diagnosed with COVID-19. The pills are not the same as the COVID vaccine in that they do not protect against COVID infection. The pills should not be used as a substitute for vaccines, according to the FDA, although they may be especially helpful for patients who are immunocompromised or unable to be vaccinated. COVID drugs, according to the DSA, are meant to reduce the likelihood of being hospitalized owing to severe COVID symptoms.
Before you ask your doctor for a COVID pill prescription, there are some important points to understand, as noted by the FDA:
COVID pills are only available to a limited number of people. They're for people who have modest symptoms but are at a higher risk of developing serious COVID-19-related illnesses. This includes people with underlying health concerns like heart disease or diabetes, as well as the elderly. Some people should avoid taking the COVID pill. Pfizer's COVID pill is licensed for those aged 12 and up, while Merck's COVID pill is just for adults. Children should not take the Merck pill since it may interfere with bone growth. The pills should not be taken by pregnant women or those who have liver or kidney disorders.
Other drugs may interact with the pills. Before taking the COVID pill, tell your doctor about any medications you're taking. Other medications, such as heart meds, blood thinners, and HIV medications, may be affected by the pills. To keep track of any drug interactions, you'll need to work closely with your doctor.
It's vital to get started on treatment right away. To be successful, the pills must be taken within five days of the commencement of symptoms. If you think you might have COVID, pay close attention to any symptoms and have a COVID test as soon as possible. Some of the most common COVID symptoms include cough, headache, fever, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell.
What to expect from COVID pill treatment
If you test positive for COVID and your doctor believes you'll need to go to the hospital, they'll likely issue you a prescription and tell you where to receive your drugs. COVID treatment with Paxlovid or molnupiravir is usually very straightforward because the drugs can be taken at home. The FDA recommends that you begin taking your medication as soon as possible and that you strictly follow your doctor's recommendations. Both medications can be taken with or without food. Do not open or crush the pills; they should be swallowed whole. If you forget to take a dose, call your doctor to find out when you should resume taking it. Even if you feel better, stick to the FDA's recommendations and take all of your medications.
According to the FDA, the drugs are intended to reduce the likelihood of hospitalization. You may not feel better immediately away after taking the COVID pill, and the time of your illness may not be reduced.
Possible side effects
Both medications are said to have modest side effects, according to the FDA. Muscle aches, diarrhea, elevated blood pressure, and loss of taste are all possible Paxlovid side effects. Nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea are all possible side effects of molnupiravir.
Molnupiravir has been shown to affect fetal development. Women who may become pregnant should use a reliable method of birth control during treatment and for at least four days after finishing treatment, according to the FDA. For at least three months after therapy, males who are sexually active should take a reliable type of birth control.
What to expect after treatment
According to FDA guidelines, if you don't feel better after five days of taking your prescription or if your symptoms worsen, call your doctor immediately.
What safety measures should I continue to follow?
Stay in isolation for as long as your doctor recommends, even if you feel better. If you are at high risk, continue to wear a mask in public and maintain social distance, according to CDC guidelines and recommendations.
What scientists are still learning
The FDA will continue to evaluate COVID pill therapy for safety and efficacy, and additional innovative drugs are likely to follow.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Rob Rohatsch, MD
Updated on Apr 25, 22
Sources
Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.
