All

COVID-19 Increased Mortality Among Seniors in Assisted-living Facilities

Assisted-living residents experienced 17% higher overall mortality during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic compared with 2019, according to research in JAMA Network Open.

All

CDC Issues Health Advisory For Respiratory Syncytial Virus

The CDC recently released a health advisory due to an unusual increase in the spread of the respiratory syncytial virus (RVS) in southern states.

All

CDC: More Evidence Pfizer, Moderna Vaccines Effective Against SARS-CoV-2

A new CDC study reports the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna reduce the risk of infection by 91% for fully vaccinated people.

Disorders & Diseases

Spiration Valve System for Emphysema Now Covered Under Medical Mutual of Ohio

Medical Mutual of Ohio updated its coverage to include the Spiration Valve System for eligible patients suffering from severe emphysema.

Pediatrics

Dupilumab Significantly Reduced Asthma Exacerbations in Children Ages 6-11

A clinical trial of dupilumab (Dupixent) showed that the monoclonal antibody significantly reduced exacerbations in children ages 6-11 with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe asthma, compared to placebo.

Products & Treatment

FDA Okays Lower Dose of Regeneron Monoclonal Antibody Cocktail

Regeneron's COVID-19 monoclonal antibody cocktail (casirivimab + imdevimab) is now authorized at half the dose for patients age 12 and older.

Smoking, Vaping & E-Cigarettes

Vaping and E-cigarettes Are Glamourized on Social Media

A report from The Conversation reviews how vaping and e-cigarettes are widely promoted on social media by the industry and influencers.

Critical Care

ICU Staff Severely Impacted By COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has, and will continue to have, a tremendous impact on ICU nurses’ mental health and willingness to continue in the critical care work force.

Infectious Diseases

Blood Donations Safe Under Current COVID-19 Screening Guidelines

A new study by NIH researchers found that SARS-CoV-2 does not appear to pose a threat to the safety of the nation’s blood supply.