COVID-19

COVID vaccine efficacy against severe illness just under 50%, per early estimates from 2023 Two European observational studies estimate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of the COVID-19 XBB.1.5 vaccine approved in fall 2023 against hospitalization, the first one finding 49% overall VE in adults, and one showing good protection—but uneven uptake—among pregnant women. CIDRAP

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COVID-related loss of smell tied to changes in the brain A new study of 73 adults recovering from COVID-19 finds that those who lost their sense of smell showed behavioral, functional, and structural brain changes. CIDRAP

..."Given the significant global incidence of COVID-19, identifying factors that can distinguish individuals at risk of developing brain alterations is crucial for prioritizing follow-up care," the study authors wrote. 

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U.S. Health and Human Services launches awareness campaign on viruses, vaccines - UPI.com Health and Human Services announced a national campaign on Monday to increase public awareness of common respiratory viruses and available vaccines. UPI

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COVID activity shows signs of slowing in parts of US Wastewater levels are at the very high level nationally, but show downward trends in the South and Midwest. CIDRAP

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Nationally, wastewater detections of SARS-CoV-2 are at the very high level for the second straight week. The highest levels are still in the West and South, followed by the Midwest and the Northeast. The CDC's latest update, however, shows downward trends from high levels in the South and Midwest.

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ALSO SEE: https://thehill.com/homenews/4832099-covid-19-summer-surge-us/