The Med & Mic™ 03.30.22
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MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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Second booster for Americans 50 and Up
The FDA has authorized a second dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for people 50 and older. The second booster is given at least four months after the first. The additional shot is most important for people 65 and older and those 50 and older with chronic medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease, smoking, pregnancy, and mental health conditions. A study of Israeli health care workers shows a tenfold increase in antibodies after a fourth shot. Other studies awaiting peer review show a decrease in booster effectiveness in three to six months. More in USA Today.
Omicron sub-variant BA.2 now dominates
In the United States, Omicron sub-variant BA.2 has taken over as the dominant coronavirus. In specimens being typed, the more contagious BA.2 accounts for more than half. In New England, it accounts for 73%. Coronavirus levels in wastewater in eastern Massachusetts have been ticking up, according to the Boston Globe. While BA.2 spreads faster, it does not make people sicker. New infections are down 96% from the Omicron peak in January, and hospital admissions are down 92%. More from CNBC.
Hydration may influence heart function
Staying well hydrated has been linked to a decreased risk of heart failure. Researchers looked at 15,000 adults starting from the late 1980s who were then followed for more than 25 years. About 12,000 were included in the final analysis, and of these, 12% developed heart failure. The researchers paid attention to the participants’ sodium levels, which increase with dehydration. The higher the sodium level, the more likely the study participant developed heart failure. A randomized, controlled trial would be needed to support this information. Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart does not pump enough blood. It affects 2% of the population. More from News Medical.
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.