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High Risk Individuals

All articles tagged with #high risk individuals

health-opinion2 years ago

"Masking Up: A Lifesaving Defense Against the Persistent Threat of COVID"

A high-risk individual with a neuromuscular disability and respiratory failure expresses fear and frustration over the rising COVID-19 cases, lack of protection for vulnerable populations, and the dismissive attitudes of public officials and policymakers. The author emphasizes the ongoing threat of the pandemic for high-risk individuals and advocates for continued mask-wearing, vaccination, and collective action to protect vulnerable communities, while calling for greater representation of disabled people in public service and health professions.

health2 years ago

CDC Advisers Recommend Routine Use of Mpox Vaccine for High-Risk Individuals

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has unanimously voted to recommend routine use of the Jynneos vaccine for individuals at high risk of mpox infection, including men who have sex with men. This recommendation extends beyond the recent public health emergency and aims to make vaccination a routine part of sexual health care for high-risk individuals. The CDC Director must now approve the recommendations. Over 31,000 Americans were diagnosed with mpox during the recent outbreak, with most cases occurring among gay men. The new recommendations could make over 2 million people eligible for vaccination, and the manufacturer of Jynneos is preparing for a commercial launch in the US.

health2 years ago

CDC Advises Routine Use of Mpox Vaccine for High-Risk Individuals

The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has unanimously voted to recommend routine use of the Jynneos vaccine for individuals at high risk of mpox infection, including men who have sex with men. This recommendation extends beyond the recent public health emergency and aims to make vaccination a routine part of sexual health care for high-risk individuals. The CDC Director must now approve the recommendations. Over 31,000 Americans were diagnosed with mpox during the recent outbreak, with most cases occurring among gay men. The new recommendations could make over 2 million people eligible for vaccination, and the manufacturer of Jynneos is preparing for a commercial launch in the US.

health2 years ago

"RSV Vaccine: A Must-Have for Cold and Flu Season?"

The FDA has approved two RSV vaccines for adults 60 and older, offering a way to lower the risk of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. The vaccines are recommended for individuals at higher risk for severe illness from RSV, including those living in group settings, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying health conditions. For individuals under 60 with risk factors, the vaccine may be given off-label, but insurance likely won't cover it. The vaccines have been found to be effective in preventing illness, with minor side effects such as pain at the injection site and fatigue. It is recommended to get the RSV vaccine as soon as possible, as cases are already increasing in the U.S. It can be administered alongside the flu shot and COVID-19 vaccine, but spacing them out is also an option.

health2 years ago

"Stay Protected: CDC Urges Americans to Get Flu Shots for the Season"

The CDC's vaccine advisory committee recommends that all Americans aged 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine this fall, unless they have health reasons preventing them from doing so. High-risk individuals, including older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic medical conditions, are especially encouraged to get vaccinated. Several flu vaccines are available, and while they are equally effective, some may be better suited for certain individuals. Timing is crucial, with September and October being the optimal months for vaccination. People with egg allergies can receive any of the flu vaccines, as the risk of severe allergic reactions is unlikely.

health2 years ago

"Experts Advise Mask Usage as Covid Cases Surge"

Experts are recommending that high-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, start wearing N95 masks again to protect themselves from the recent uptick in Covid-19 cases. The CDC currently does not make a broad recommendation for everyone to wear masks, but this could change if hospitalizations reach critical levels. The rise in cases may be attributed to new variants, such as BA.2.86, which is highly mutated and potentially resistant to current vaccines. While some institutions are already implementing mask mandates, Americans overall do not appear to be concerned enough to change their behavior. Experts emphasize the need for continued adaptation and caution against complacency in the face of the ongoing pandemic.

health2 years ago

Mask Mandates Return as COVID-19 Cases Surge in New York City

Experts are recommending the use of N95 masks, particularly for high-risk individuals, as Covid-19 cases continue to rise. This includes people with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, as well as those who are immunocompromised or over the age of 65. The CDC currently does not make a broad recommendation for everyone to wear masks, but this could change if hospitalizations reach critical levels. The rise in cases is attributed to factors such as new variants and waning immunity. A new booster shot is expected to provide better protection against circulating strains of Covid-19. Some institutions are already reinstating mask mandates, and pediatricians are preparing for a surge in respiratory illnesses as schools reopen. Despite the concerns of experts, many Americans are not changing their behavior in response to the recent increase in cases. Experts emphasize the need for continued adaptation and vigilance in the face of the ongoing pandemic.

health2 years ago

Switzerland halts COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for spring and summer.

Switzerland is not recommending COVID vaccines, even for high risk individuals, during spring and summer. The country's health authority stated that the decision was made due to a lack of data on the vaccines' effectiveness and safety during the warmer months. However, the authority emphasized that the recommendation may change as more data becomes available.

health2 years ago

US at high risk of new smallpox outbreaks due to low vaccination rates.

Only about 23% of high-risk individuals in the United States have received the MPOX vaccine, putting the country at risk of a potential resurgence of the virus, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC has created a new webpage to help people locate MPOX vaccine sites. Those at highest risk include gay and bisexual men and people who have multiple sex partners. The risk of reinfection could grow for those who have survived previous MPOX infections over time and if the virus mutates.