COVID-19: Monday July 6th

Mask mandates, herd immunity, FDA warnings, MMR vaccine and things to monitor.

1. Over 20 states are now requiring masks when in public. With cases on the rise and expected to spike after July 4th events, and a mutation that made it easier for the virus to spread, more states are mandating masks. Children under 2 and those with some medical conditions are exempt from the mandate. As mask mandates increase proper usage becomes more important. Remember to wash your hands before and after handling your mask. Don't touch the front of the mask or your face while wearing a mask. The mask should cover your nose and mouth and fit securely. (2 face mask articles included in the FB comments)

2. A study from the Lancet published this morning from researchers in Spain. They report that only 5% of their population is showing antibodies for the virus. These findings further support the idea that a herd immunity approach is not viable. Similar studies have been published out of other countries.

3. The FDA is warning against toxic hand sanitizers out of Mexico. The hand sanitizers contain dangerous levels of methanol which can be absorbed through the skin and cause life-threatening issues. I have put a link to the list of sanitizers in question in the comments.

4. Early indicators suggest that the MMR vaccine may lessen the effect of the virus in people who get COVID. MMR is a live attenuated vaccine (a live but weakened version of the germ is used to create an immune response very similar to natural immunity - these vaccines result in strong, long-lasting immunity). This is still developing but they are starting more in-depth research on it. If it proves to be true, it could explain why children have better outcomes than adults (more recent vaccination).

5. The CDC is forecasting 148k COVID deaths by the end of July. This is something to monitor.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Life brings with it tests of circumstances, people, and things. This situation is a combination of all three. It is difficult and it is challenging and at times it really tests your nerves. As we begin a new week I want to encourage you to be strong and forgiving, show mercy, love, and kindness to your fellow man. Hopefully, you renewed over the weekend so you are prepared to do that, but if not, recognize that. Know when to walk away. Control your tongue - it may be the most difficult thing you have to do today. Take the high road, you'll be glad you did. And for all the times you have done so in the past, thank you. And for all the times you failed - forgive yourself, apologize if you need to and then move on.