In this episode, we’re breaking down the current viral landscape, focusing on COVID-19, mpox, norovirus, bird flu, and pertussis. We will discuss the unique challenges these viruses pose to immunocompromised individuals and offer practical advice on how to stay protected from viruses during this hot summer. We also recap the recommendations from the recent ACIP meeting, the advisory committee to the CDC on vaccines.

Among the highlights in this episode:

01:10: Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF, begins the discussion on the current state of COVID-19, noting that while cases are rising, the levels are still much lower compared to the pandemic’s peak

02:11: Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF, discusses the emergence of new COVID-19 variants and the importance of adapting vaccinations to combat these changes effectively

03:16: Our hosts talk about the specific challenges facing Hawaii, including higher COVID-19 rates possibly due to less community immunity and challenges in vaccine distribution

05:22: Zoe highlights the rise in norovirus cases and reminds listeners about the simple yet effective measure of handwashing to prevent spread

07:13: Steven updates on the latest bird flu cases, reassuring that the transmission remains from animals to humans, not between humans

08:19: The discussion shifts to the ongoing heatwave, with advice on how medications might interact with high temperatures and the importance of staying hydrated

09:53: Steven provides a summary of the latest CDC recommendations for vaccinations, including the new directives for COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal vaccines

11:09: What our hosts learned from this episode

Contact Our Hosts

Steven Newmark, Chief of Policy at GHLF: snewmark@ghlf.org

Zoe Rothblatt, Director of Community Outreach at GHLF: zrothblatt@ghlf.org

A podcast episode produced by Ben Blanc, Associate Director, Digital Production and Engagement at GHLF.

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