COVID-19 Update, Friday the 13th of November

Masks, Vanuatu, Pfizer, superspreaders, fake test results, and maternal transmission.

1. Just a reminder that masks protect both you (the one wearing it) and those around you - according to CDC guidance and published research. But you want to make sure, as cases in your county increase, that you are wearing the best mask option. You want to pick one with multiple layers - 3 is best. The medical-style masks with the "ruffles" or folds tend to include 3 folds which are good. Some dual-layer masks have pouches between the two layers for you to put in filters which is also good. Gaiters are fine when cases are low but as cases increase you need to either overlap the fabric or switch to something with more layers. Also, if, when you are wearing your mask, you feel the need to adjust it - it isn't a good fit and you need a different one. Adjustable ear loops helps with fit. I have shared quite a few studies on this in prior posts if anyone is interested in reviewing those.

2. The Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, which was previously one of the few places without COVID recorded its first COVID case, a 23-year-old man who returned there from America. The man was in quarantine and thus far, asymptomatic.

3. The Pfizer vaccine will require ultra-cold storage conditions which will complicate distributing the vaccine in the US and around the world. The systems used to store vaccines at this level (-95 degrees) cost around $10-15k making them difficult to obtain in rural and low-income areas. In related news, there are discussions underway to distribute the vaccine for free around the US and possibly the globe. Stay tuned for more on that.

4. Another study came out regarding superspreader events and have found that some superspreaders can spread the disease to over 100 people. Superspreading events are most common in what are called "points of interests" such as religious gathers and restaurants. This doesn't mean these events are always super-spreading events, but that we should use additional prevention techniques in these areas. The reasons for this are varied and can include actual superspreader individuals, length of time present at these locations, activities in those areas, and the number of people present in the venue. Remember the risk assessment techniques we have been discussing as ways to review the risks and how to reduce them. Interestingly cell phone monitoring is being used to track these events both in the US and around the globe.

5. Fake test results are now being sold illegally to help people get around travel restrictions.

6. There has been a case of a mother passing COVID to her unborn child. Published in EID.

7. We are continuing to make progress on treatment options in both mild/moderate patients as well as hospitalized ones. We are getting better and better with treatment which is very encouraging. I am attaching some charts to show updated cases counts and mortality.

FINAL THOUGHTS: It's been quite a week. For me, this one went very fast but it was a challenge for sure. As usual, I want to encourage you to step away from the news and social media etc. this weekend and give yourself a rest. But don't just rest this weekend, actively seek out things that will encourage your soul. Perhaps just the right song, a speech or sermon that inspires you, a TED talk that is inspirational, whatever it is that will help soothe your soul and inspire you, find it, and feed your soul this weekend to prepare you as we head into a difficult winter. Take time to stop and consider all that you have to be thankful for as well. I will see you back on Monday.