Virus expert Dr. Michael Osterholm just released a COVID update on his podcast. "Things are looking better. We are not back in those first three years of the pandemic." However, he underscores that the future remains uncertain, especially regarding the emergence of new variants. "Variants will continue to be a major point of why this virus does what it does," he says. Dr. Osterholm strongly advocates for vaccination, emphasizing its importance. He encourages everyone to get vaccinated, including the youngest children. He addresses critics and challenges, stating, "Please get your vaccine." Read on to see how to stay safe.
Dr. Osterholm emphasizes the challenge of understanding the ever-changing COVID-19 situation, noting, "Each time we do one of these national or international updates, it almost feels like we're putting together a huge puzzle." He acknowledges that some countries have experienced recent increases in cases but adds, "The incidents of hospitalizations and deaths have remained relatively low compared to the numbers that we posted throughout much of the first three years of the pandemic." Dr. Osterholm also highlights some positive signs, stating, "Another potential silver lining, at least for those of us here in the US, is that there are some indications of a recent peak connectivity these past several weeks in three of the four US regions."
Dr. Osterholm notes, "The rollout of the updated COVID booster shot has been a bit bumpy," acknowledging various challenges. Discussing a Kaiser Family Foundation survey, he highlights concerns, saying, "Only 23% of US adults said they would definitely get the booster, and 23% said they would probably get it." He also raises concerns about pediatric vaccination, where "fewer than 40% said they'll get their children vaccinated against COVID." He raises alarm about the rising number of hospitalizations in children under four years of age, including those with no underlying risk factors. "The number of children under four years of age dying from COVID far exceeds that which we see during influenza seasonal occurrence," he warns.
Regarding long COVID, Dr. Osterholm acknowledges the ongoing uncertainty, saying, "I know I'm beginning to sound like a broken record here." He discusses the results of the National Health Interview Survey, estimating that 18 million Americans have experienced long COVID. Dr. Osterholm also comments on a study linking COVID-19 to heart complications, saying, "As the authors of the paper explain, their findings provide for the first time a direct mechanistic link between COVID-19 infection and the heart complications, it provokes."
Dr. Osterholm addresses concerns about the rollout of COVID-19 booster shots, stating, "The hesitancy or reluctance to get booster shots is a concern." He references a Kaiser Family Foundation poll, saying, "The Kaiser Family Foundation poll results highlight a significant portion of the population that remains hesitant or uncertain about getting booster shots." Dr. Osterholm also emphasizes the potential impact on the healthcare system, stating, "The potential impact on the healthcare system is multifaceted." He concludes by stressing the importance of public health efforts, saying, "It's essential for public health authorities and healthcare professionals to continue emphasizing the importance of booster shots, addressing concerns, and providing accurate information to encourage more people to get vaccinated and receive boosters when eligible."
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In summary, Dr. Osterholm emphasizes the improved pandemic situation while cautioning about uncertainties related to variants. He strongly encourages vaccination for all age groups and acknowledges the complexities of long Covid and cardiovascular issues, expressing hope for more insights and support for those affected.
