#Impact of COVID-19 on global health

[jantanow]

वेलबिंग इन स्कूल्स स्पॉटलाइट 2024 के निर्धारण में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाने पर हंड्रेड द्वारा सम्मानित हुए बागपत के अमन

बागपत के युवा अमन कुमार को फिनलैंड के हंड्रेड संस्थान द्वारा “वेलबिंग इन स्कूल्स स्पॉटलाइट 2024” में उनके योगदान के लिए सम्मानित किया गया है। इसका उद्देश्य स्कूलों में विद्यार्थियों की भलाई को बढ़ावा देने वाले प्रभावी और स्केलेबल नवाचारों की पहचान करना है, जिसमें अमन ने हंड्रेड के एडवाइजरी बोर्ड के सदस्य के रूप में नवाचारों की समीक्षा में महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई। इस महत्वपूर्ण योगदान के लिए…

[ingredientsonline]

The Best Multivitamin Ingredients for Immune Protection and Good Health

[greenthestral]

COVID-19 Pandemic: Unraveling the Global Learning Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on the world, disrupting economies, healthcare systems, and everyday life. One of the most significant areas affected by this unprecedented global crisis is education. With schools closing their doors to prevent the spread of the virus, the world has witnessed the deepening of a global learning crisis. The pandemic's impact on education has been profound, exacerbating existing inequalities and creating new challenges for learners, educators, and policymakers worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the ways the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the global learning crisis and explore potential strategies to address these pressing issues.

The Disruption of Education During the Pandemic

When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic in early 2020, governments worldwide swiftly implemented strict measures to curb the virus's spread. One of the most crucial measures was the closure of educational institutions. Overnight, classrooms turned into virtual learning environments, and educators had to adapt rapidly to online teaching methods.

While some countries were better equipped to transition to online education, others faced significant challenges due to a lack of infrastructure and access to technology. The digital divide became more pronounced as students from low-income families or remote regions struggled to keep up with their studies. As a result, millions of children and young adults were left without access to education, further exacerbating the global learning crisis.

Widening Educational Inequalities

The pandemic has widened existing educational inequalities worldwide. Students from privileged backgrounds with access to reliable internet connections, laptops, and private tutors were better equipped to continue their education remotely. On the other hand, students from marginalized communities often lacked the necessary resources to participate in online learning effectively.

Furthermore, learners with disabilities faced additional barriers, as many online platforms were not designed to accommodate their specific needs. This disparity in access to quality education has the potential to have far-reaching consequences, as it perpetuates social and economic inequalities for generations to come.

Learning Loss and the Educational Gap

Extended school closures and disrupted learning routines have resulted in significant learning loss for many students. Studies have shown that prolonged absences from the traditional classroom setting can lead to a decline in academic performance and cognitive development.

Moreover, the pandemic has created an educational gap between different age groups. Early childhood education, a critical developmental phase, has been severely impacted, potentially affecting children's long-term cognitive and social-emotional development. Similarly, older students faced the stress of delayed examinations, college admissions, and uncertainty about their future prospects.

Mental Health Impact on Students and Educators

The pandemic's toll on mental health has been considerable, impacting both students and educators. The abrupt shift to remote learning and the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic have caused stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation among students. Many have struggled to cope with the challenges of online learning and the absence of social interactions with peers.

Educators, too, have faced unprecedented pressures, adapting to new teaching methods, dealing with technological challenges, and juggling personal responsibilities amidst the pandemic. The resulting burnout and fatigue among teachers have affected the overall quality of education and student support.

Solutions to Mitigate the Global Learning Crisis

While the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly exacerbated the global learning crisis, there are several strategies that policymakers, educators, and communities can adopt to address these challenges and build a more resilient education system:

1. Bridging the Digital Divide

Governments and educational institutions must prioritize bridging the digital divide to ensure all students have equal access to quality education. This can be achieved through initiatives that provide laptops, tablets, or internet connectivity to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, investing in the development of educational content optimized for low-tech devices can increase accessibility for students with limited resources.

2. Blended Learning Approaches

Blended learning, a combination of online and in-person instruction, can offer a flexible and inclusive approach to education. This approach allows for personalized learning experiences while maintaining the benefits of face-to-face interactions with teachers and peers. By incorporating digital tools and resources into the curriculum, educators can cater to diverse learning styles and individual needs.

3. Teacher Training and Professional Development

Empowering teachers with the necessary skills and tools to adapt to changing circumstances is crucial. Comprehensive training in online teaching methodologies and the use of technology in education can enhance the quality of remote learning. Moreover, providing ongoing professional development opportunities can help teachers stay motivated and engaged, ultimately benefiting their students' learning outcomes.

4. Prioritizing Early Childhood Education

Recognizing the significance of early childhood education, governments should prioritize resources for early learning programs. Investing in early childhood education can have a profound impact on children's cognitive and social development, setting them on a path to success in later years.

5. Strengthening Support Systems

To address the mental health challenges faced by students and educators, it is essential to establish robust support systems within educational institutions. Counseling services, peer support groups, and mental health awareness programs can create a nurturing and empathetic learning environment.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has indeed deepened a global learning crisis, affecting millions of learners around the world. The disruption of education, widening educational inequalities, learning loss, and the mental health impact on students and educators have posed significant challenges to the education sector.

However, by implementing innovative strategies such as bridging the digital divide, adopting blended learning approaches, prioritizing teacher training, investing in early childhood education, and strengthening support systems, we can begin to mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic on education.

As we navigate the path to recovery, it is vital for governments, educators, parents, and communities to come together and work collaboratively towards building a more resilient and inclusive education system that can withstand future challenges. Only through collective efforts can we ensure that every child has access to a quality education, regardless of the circumstances they may face. Let us seize this opportunity to reshape education for a brighter and more equitable future.

What's In It For Me? (WIIFM)

In this blog article on the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on education, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how the global learning crisis has deepened in the wake of this unprecedented health crisis. Discover the challenges faced by students, educators, and policymakers, and explore effective strategies to address these issues. Learn about the widening educational inequalities, learning loss, and the mental health impact on learners and teachers. Moreover, find practical solutions and actionable steps to contribute to building a more resilient and inclusive education system for a brighter future.

Call to Action (CTA)

Join us in addressing the global learning crisis deepened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Share this article with your friends, family, and colleagues to spread awareness about the challenges faced by learners and educators worldwide. Engage in discussions about the importance of equitable access to quality education and the need for innovative solutions. Support initiatives that bridge the digital divide, prioritize early childhood education, and promote teacher training and professional development. Together, let's work towards building a stronger and more sustainable education system that can withstand future challenges.

Blog Excerpt

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on education globally, deepening a pre-existing learning crisis. With schools closing their doors to curb the virus's spread, millions of students were left without access to education, exacerbating existing educational inequalities. This blog article delves into the far-reaching consequences of the pandemic on learners, educators, and communities. Discover how the sudden shift to remote learning widened the educational gap and led to learning loss among students. Uncover the mental health challenges faced by learners and teachers during these uncertain times. But, more importantly, explore actionable solutions to mitigate the global learning crisis and build a more resilient and inclusive education system.

Meta Description (320 characters)

Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic has deepened the global learning crisis. Explore its impact on education, widening inequalities, learning loss, and mental health challenges. Learn actionable strategies to address these issues and build a more resilient education system. Join us in shaping a brighter future.

[sophsweet]

What has Philanthrocapitalism ever done for us?

I've been working on this a while and may update this as things become clearer

Here is a series of events, which lead up to and surround the coronavirus pandemic, which have far reaching impacts on the stock exchange, personal wealth, corporate practice, governments, media and global health and well being. The positive impacts of the money, time and effort are difficult to find, unlike the harms. There isn’t an easy to find paper trail or outcome from actions taken and…

[market-insider]

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) Minimize Risk Of Errors In Patient Data And Financial Details

The global electronic health records market size is expected to reach USD 38.5 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.0% from 2022 to 2030. The web-based electronic health records (EHRs) are anticipated to show the largest growth during the forecast period. These EHRs are convenient for use in pharmacies, small-scaled laboratories, and clinics, as they require limited hardware infrastructure, which reduces the cost of installation.

EHR vendors and organizations have initiated to help in curbing the pandemic by making telehealth a mainstream alternative, enhancing data access through EHRs, and collaborating to develop COVID-19 dashboards in detail. The introduction of EHRs for medical coding and billing has eased the process as data entering into computerized systems is more convenient than paper-based methods. EHRs also minimize the risk of errors in patient data as well as financial details. As per the University of Michigan, the cost of outpatient care was reduced by 3% upon shifting to EHRs from paper-based records. This reduction resulted in USD 5.14 savings per patient per month. 

Gain deeper insights on the market and receive your free copy with TOC now @: Electronic Health Records Market Report

Additionally, M&A activities by market players are also boosting the market growth. For instance, in February 2021, Evident, LLC, a subsidiary of CPSI announced that Texas-based Curahealth Hospitals and Cobalt Rehabilitation, have selected the Evident EHR along with collection services TruBridge, for three new rehabilitation facilities located in Denver, Colorado; West Houston, Texas; and San Antonio, Texas. Key players in the EHR market are investing in the launch of new products and collaborations for sustaining in the market. For instance, in August 2020, Cerner Corporation collaborated with Amazon to integrate its EHR solutions with the latter’s wearables such as Amazon Halo. This would provide greater interoperability to its customers and strengthen its service portfolio. 

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

"No big deal." "Just a cold." "Back to normal."

The proportion of babies born with a congenital heart abnormality increased by 16 per cent after the first year of the pandemic, according to research at City St George's, University of London and published today in Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Heart defects are the most common type of anomaly that develop before a baby is born, with around 13 babies diagnosed with a congenital heart condition every day in the UK and impacting one in 110 births globally . These include defects to the baby's heart valves, the major blood vessels in and around the heart, and the development of holes in the heart.

In over 18 million births, researchers analysed data from US birth certificates from the Centre of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) between December 2016 and November 2022 to evaluate the effect of the pandemic on the number of babies born with a congenital heart defect.

They compared the number of babies born with a congenital heart condition every month before the Covid-19 pandemic (1st December 2016 to 30th November 2019) with those during the pandemic (1st December 2020 to 30th November 2022).

This data was then compared to the number of babies born with Down's Syndrome - a genetic condition not affected by the virus. This was to help ascertain if any differences observed might have been due to Covid-19, or if they were a result of other factors including limited access to antenatal services during the pandemic.

A total of 11,010,764 births before and 7,060,626 births during the pandemic were analysed. Data was adjusted to account for mother's BMI, diabetes and blood pressure before pregnancy, age, number of times they had given birth and the season in which prenatal care started.

The number of births with a congenital heart condition increased by 16% after the first year of the pandemic, with 65.4 cases per 100,000 live births compared to 56.5 per 100,000 births in the period studied before the pandemic.

The number of babies born with Down Syndrome did not change for the duration of the study, suggesting that the increase in fetal heart defects were not due to a disruption of health services.

Studying this large US dataset has revealed an unexpected picture for how the pandemic has affected the hearts of unborn babies, but we need to untangle the reasons for this link. We need to determine if the SARS-CoV-2 virus directly causes the development of fetal heart problems during pregnancy, and if so, how the virus makes these changes in the heart.

We don't have this type of data set available in the UK, but it's important to see if this pattern is seen in other parts of the world.

Covid-19 is still circulating and is easier to catch in the winter months. These results act as an important reminder for pregnant women to get their Covid-19 vaccinations to help protect themselves and their baby."

Professor Asma Khalil, lead author and Professor of Obstetrics and Maternal Fetal Medicine at City St George's, University of London

Source: City St George's, University of London

Journal reference: Khalil, A., et al. (2024). Congenital heart defects during COVID‐19 pandemic. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. doi.org/10.1002/uog.29126. obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/uog.29126

[dandelionsresilience]

Good News - May 15-21

Like these weekly compilations? Support me on Ko-fi! Also, if you tip me on Ko-fi, at the end of the month I'll send you a link to all of the articles I found but didn't use each week - almost double the content!

1. Translocation of 2,000 rhinos in Africa gets underway in “one of the most audacious conservation efforts of modern times”

“The 2,000 rhinos - more than are currently found in any single wild location in Africa - represent around 12-15% of the continent’s remaining white rhino population. […] “Rhinos perform an important ecological function in the environment as a large grazing herbivore,” says Dale Wepener[….] “The protection of rhino is far more than just looking after rhino; other species that occur in the protected areas will benefit from the protection,” explains Jooste. “This will lead to an increase in diversity and result in much healthier ecosystems.”

2. Florida Corridor Buffers Effects of Climate Change on Wildlife — And People

“A massive multi-partner effort that has conserved 10 million acres for wildlife in Florida over past decades will help buffer wildlife—and people—from the effects of climate change, a new report says. […] Protecting these corridors is important for wildlife genetics, demography and connectivity […], conducting prescribed fires in the corridor can reduce the risk of more intense wildfires [… and] they can provide buffers against hurricanes and seasonal thunderstorms.”

3. Global life expectancy to increase by nearly 5 years by 2050 despite geopolitical, metabolic, and environmental threats

“Increases are expected to be largest in countries where life expectancy is lower, contributing to a convergence of increased life expectancy across geographies. The trend is largely driven by public health measures that have prevented and improved survival rates from cardiovascular diseases, COVID-19, and a range of communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases (CMNNs).”

4. Valencia has Spain’s longest urban park

“Jardin del Turia (Turia Garden) is the green spine of the City of Valencia and Spain’s (and possibly Europe’s) longest urban park stretching for a length of 8.5 kilometres [… and] the current administration plans to make Jardin del Turia Europe’s largest city green space by extending it to the sea[….] Almost all Valencia residents (97 per cent) live within 300 metres of an urban green space. […] Jardin del Turia is a true urban oasis that provides exceptional thermal comfort, with a temperature difference of up to three degrees compared to other areas of the city.”

5. This Paint Could Clean Both Itself and the Air

“When an artificial ultraviolet light source shines on [photocatalytic] paint, the nanoparticles react with pollutants to make them break down—theoretically removing them from the nearby air and preventing a discoloring buildup. [… R]esearchers developed a new photocatalytic paint that they claim works using UV rays from ordinary sunlight, making its self-cleaning properties easier to activate. They’ve also shown that they can effectively produce this paint from recycled materials [including fallen leaves].”

6. Planting Seedlings for a Cooler Rockingham

“A dedicated group of volunteers recently planted over a thousand native seedlings in Lewington Reserve [… and] re-established canopy cover to areas of the reserve to create cooling shade for the local community and provide homes for native wildlife. […] Planting lots of trees and shrubs in urban areas can help create shade and cool cities, mitigating the impacts of climate change, contributing to biodiversity conservation and building greener, more resilient communities.”

7. Sydney’s first dedicated affordable housing for trans women designed to deliver ‘positive outcomes’

“Community housing provider and charity Common Equity NSW, […] which is for people on very low to moderate incomes, prides itself on creating inclusive living and promotes the independence and well-being of people and communities […, and] will deliver the first-of-its-kind social housing in a bid to provide a safe place to live for transgender women seeking an affordable home.”

8. Rewilding: How a herd of bison reintroduced to Romania is helping ‘supercharge’ carbon removal

“170 European Bison reintroduced to Romania’s Țarcu mountains could help capture and store the carbon released by up to 84,000 average US petrol cars each year. […] By grazing a 48 square kilometre area of grassland in a wider landscape of 300 kilometres squared, they helped to capture an additional 54,000 tonnes of carbon each year. That is around 10 times the amount that would be captured by the ecosystem without the bison.”

9. World’s biggest grids could be powered by renewables, with little or no storage

“[…] 100% renewable supply can then match the load by putting surplus electricity into two kinds of distributed storage worth that [an energy expert] says are worth buying anyway – ice-storage air-conditioning and smart bidirectional charging of electric cars, and recover that energy when needed, filling the last gaps with unobtrusively flexible demand.”

10. Supporting the Long-Term Survival of Copper River Salmon and Alaska Native Traditions

“With $4.3 million in NOAA funds, the Copper River Watershed Project and The Eyak Corporation will remove fish passage barriers, opening more streams for salmon spawning and subsistence fishing. [… As part of this effort, o]ld narrow culverts that constrict water flow will be replaced with “stream simulation” culverts wide enough to fit the full stream, including its banks. They are also deep to allow contractors to place stones and other material inside to mimic a natural stream bottom.”

May 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[covidsafecosplay]

This Week in Covid & Health News (Posted November 14, 2024)

Covid-Safe Cosplay and its admin are unaffiliated with any of the sites or authors linked below, we're simply sharing the information. If you have related news links that we missed, especially in other languages, please share either in the comments or a reblog.

General

San Fransisco Chronicle: Sonoma County reinstates mask mandate for health care workers amid rising illnesses (Nov. 12, 2024)

NPR: What happens when a vaccine skeptic leads health policy? Ask Florida (Nov. 13, 2024)

Covid-19

The Beacon: Weathered COVID before? Scientists say every new infection puts you at risk of getting long COVID (Nov. 11, 2024)

CIDRAP: Cardiac inflammation markers show role of long-COVID symptoms (Nov. 12, 2024)

Cleveland: Having COVID-19 doubles long-term risk of heart attack, stroke, new Clinic study suggests (Nov. 13, 2024)

Avian Flu

Hawaii News Now: Avian flu detected on Oahu for the first time ever (Nov. 12, 2024)

CNN: Canadian teen in critical condition with bird flu; source of exposure is unknown (Nov. 13, 2024)

Global News: As bird flu emerges in Canada, experts urge preparedness (Nov. 13, 2024)

Stat: Canadian teen's bird flu infection is not the version found in cows (Nov. 13, 2024)

Fortune: Canadian teenager in critical condition with presumptive bird flu as U.S. official warns the virus 'seems to be gearing up for wider impact' (Nov. 13, 2024)

TIME: Is It Time to Worry About Bird Flu? (Nov. 13, 2024)

Whooping Cough

WPRI: 4 Portsmouth High School students have 'very contagious' whooping cough (Nov. 12, 2024)

ABC News: Washington state sees 'sharp increase' in whooping cough cases, mirroring rise across US (Nov. 12, 2024)

KHOU: Whooping cough cases surge in Texas, across country in 2024, DSHS says (Nov. 12, 2024)

KOIN: Whooping cough, chickenpox outbreaks hit Clark County schools (Nov. 12, 2024)

The Spokesman-Review: Six Spokane County residents hospitalized with whooping cough during outbreak (Nov. 12, 2024)

Fox KTVU: Bay Area surge in whooping cough; some counties see highest numbers in decade (Nov. 13, 2024)

CNY Central: Health officials warn of increased whooping cough spread in local schools (Nov. 14, 2024)

Walking Pneumonia

CDC: Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Infections Have Been Increasing (Oct. 18, 2024)

WTOP: Urgent care centers report 'unprecedented' spike in walking pneumonia cases around DC area (Nov. 14, 2024)

[probablyasocialecologist]

“The ‘war on drugs’ may be understood to a significant extent as a war on people. Its impact has been greatest on those who live in poverty, and it frequently overlaps with discrimination directed at marginalised groups, minoritiesand Indigenous Peoples. In our reporting and experience, we have found that such discriminatory impact is a common element across drug policies with regard to the widest range of human rights, including the right to personal liberty; freedom from torture, ill-treatment and forced labour; fair trial rights; the right to health, including access to essential medicines, palliative care, comprehensive drug prevention and education, drug treatment, and harm reduction; the right to adequate housing; freedom from discrimination and the right to equal treatment before the law; right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment; cultural rights and freedoms of expression, religion, assembly and association. Globally, drug control has had massive costs for the dignity, humanity and freedom of people of African descent, with reports showing that people of African descent face disproportionate and unjust law enforcement interventions, arrests and incarceration for drug-related offences. In various countries, the ‘war on drugs’ has been more effective as a system of racial control than as a tool to reduce drug markets. Policing interventions based on racial profiling remain widespread, whilst access to evidence-based treatment and harm reduction for people of African descent remains critically low. Around the world, women who use drugs face significant stigma and discrimination in accessing harm reduction programmes, drug dependence treatment and basic health care. Although one in three people who use drugs are women, women constitute only one in five people in treatment. Women are also disproportionately affected by criminalisation and incarceration, with 35% of women in prison worldwide having been convicted of a drug-related offence compared to 19% of men. The causes of women’s interaction with the criminal justice system in relation to drugs are complex, often linked to other factors such as poverty and coercion, and may reflect systemic gender inequality in society more broadly. Of note, most women in prison for drug related offences have little education. Under international law, States that have not yet abolished the death penalty may only impose capital punishment for the ‘most serious crimes’, meaning crimes of extreme gravity involving intentional killing. Drug offences clearly do not meet this threshold. However, drug-related offences are still punishable by death in over 30 countries, and human rights experts have raised concerns about evidence of its discriminatory impact on individuals belonging to minorities. Everyone without exception has the right to life-saving harm reduction interventions, which are essential for the protection of the right to health of people who use drugs. However, according to UN data, only 1 in 8 people with drug dependence have access to appropriate treatment, and the coverage of harm reduction services remains very low. The situation is particularly critical for women, LGBTIQ+ persons, and other marginalised groups, for whom harm reduction and treatment services may not be adapted or respond to their specific needs. Women and LGBTIQ+ persons also face even higher levels of stigma, including self-stigma, and discrimination than men who use drugs.

As the world grows older, drug use among people over 65 has also increased. The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the health and well-being of older persons, and studies show an increased use of pain relievers, tranquillizers, and sedatives among this age group. Older drug users are also more often using the dark web, social media, and online forums to obtain illicit substances resulting in a rise of drug-related deaths among older populations. The criminalisation of substances traditionally used by Indigenous Peoples such as the coca leaf can also result in the suppression, undermining and marginalization of traditional and indigenous knowledge systems and medicine, which has wide-ranging health impacts and is rooted in discriminatory hierarchies and conceptions. Forced eradication of crops, including through the aerial spraying of highly hazardous pesticides, can cause serious harm to the environment and clean water, as well as to the health and welfare of Indigenous communities. Indigenous Peoples that might be affected by these and other drug control operations must be meaningfully consulted, and guarantees should be given that their lives, cultural practices, lands and natural resources are not violated. Criminal laws and the punitive use of administrative and other sanctions stigmatise already marginalised populations. Criminalisation results in significant barriers to access to health services (including those for HIV and palliative care) and in other human rights violations. As called for by the UN system Common Position on drug-related matters, drug use and possession for personal use should be decriminalised as a matter of urgency. Drug use or dependence are never a sufficient justification for detaining a person. Compulsory drug detention and rehabilitation centres need to be closed and replaced with voluntary, evidence-informed, and rights-based health and social services in the community.

[mindblowingscience]

The global COVID-19 vaccination campaign saved 2.4 million lives in 141 countries and could have saved about 670,000 more had the vaccines been distributed equitably, say researchers. The findings come from a working paper circulated by the National Bureau of Economic Research prior to peer review. The benefits of the COVID-19 vaccines are far-reaching by multiple measures, says coauthor Christopher M. Whaley, an associate professor of health services, policy and practice at Brown University. “Our study shows the enormous health impacts of COVID-19 vaccines, which in turn have huge economic benefits,” Whaley says. “In terms of lives saved and economic value, the COVID-19 vaccination campaign is likely the most impactful public health response in recent memory.”

Continue Reading.

[willowreader]

Another amazing post and explanation. Just click iee on Twitter.

COVID-19 has profoundly impacted global health, economies, and daily life. The disease can lead to multi-organ complications and long-term health issues, now officially named "Long COVID.". The damage of Long COVID can persist from months to years and include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive issues, and organ damage[1][4][7].

The Role of Monocytes in COVID-19

Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. They are part of the innate immune system and are responsible for phagocytosing pathogens and presenting antigens to T cells. In the context of COVID-19, monocytes have been found to be significantly affected by the virus, leading to various immune dysregulations.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Kat Lay at The Guardian:

Five years ago, the world was hearing the first reports of a mysterious flu-like illness emerging from Wuhan, China, now known as Covid-19. The pandemic that followed brought more than 14 million deaths, and sent shock waves through the world economy. About 400 million people worldwide have had long Covid. World leaders, recognising that another pandemic was not a question of “if” but “when”, promised to work together to strengthen global health systems. But negotiations on a new pandemic agreement stalled in 2024, even as further global public health threats and emergencies were identified. If a new pandemic threat emerges in 2025, experts are yet to be convinced that we will deal with it any better than the last.

What are the threats?

While experts agree that another pandemic is inevitable, exactly what, where and when is impossible to predict. New health threats emerge frequently. World health leaders declared an outbreak of mpox in Africa an international public health emergency in 2024. As the year ended, teams of specialists were probing a potential outbreak of an unknown illness in a remote area of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, now thought to be cases of severe malaria and other diseases exacerbated by acute malnutrition. Maria van Kerkhove, interim director of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention at the World Health Organization (WHO), is concerned about the bird flu situation – the virus is not spreading human to human but there have been an increasing number of human infections in the past year.

While there is a well-established international monitoring system specifically focused on influenza, surveillance in sectors such as trade and agriculture, where humans and animals mix, is not comprehensive enough, she says. And she stresses that the ability to properly assess the risk “depends on the detection, the sequencing, the transparency of countries to share those samples”. The Covid-19 pandemic left health systems worldwide “really shaky” and has been followed by a long list of other health crises, she says. “Seasonal influenza started circulating, we had an mpox emergency, we’ve had Marburg, we’ve had cholera, we’ve had earthquakes, we’ve had floods, measles, diphtheria, dengue, Oropouche. Health systems are really buckling under the weight and our health workforce globally has really taken a beating. Many have left. Many are suffering from PTSD. Many died.”

[...]

Are we doing anything better?

The world has never been in a better position when it comes to the expertise, technology and data systems to rapidly detect a threat, Van Kerkhove says. The expansion of genomic sequencing abilities to most countries worldwide, and better access to medical oxygen and infection prevention and control, remain “really big gains” after the Covid-19 pandemic, she adds. It means her answer to whether the world is ready for the next pandemic “is both yes and no”. “On the other hand, I think the difficulties and the trauma that we’ve all gone through with Covid and with other outbreaks, in the context of war and climate change and economic crises and politics, we are absolutely not ready to handle another pandemic,” she says. “The world doesn’t want to hear me on television saying that the next crisis is upon us.” The world of public health is “fighting for political attention, for fiscal space, for investment” – rather than nations working to stay in “a steady state of readiness”, she says.

5 years after the COVID pandemic swept the world and impacted all facets of our lives, is the world ready for another pandemic? Not really.

[greenthestral]

The Unseen Fallout: How COVID-19 is Undermining Decades of Global Health Progress

The COVID-19 pandemic has not only unleashed a deadly virus upon the world but has also initiated a cascading effect, jeopardizing decades of progress in global health. While the immediate focus has been on containing and managing the virus, the broader consequences on healthcare systems, vaccination programs, and various public health initiatives are alarming. In this article, we delve into the unseen fallout of the pandemic, exploring the setbacks it has imposed on the achievements made in global health over the years.

The Disruption of Healthcare Systems

One of the most significant consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic has been the disruption of healthcare systems worldwide. As hospitals and medical facilities shifted their focus towards handling the surge of COVID-19 cases, routine medical care and treatments for other ailments have been severely impacted. Elective surgeries have been postponed, routine check-ups canceled, and non-COVID patients have faced difficulties accessing essential medical services. This disruption not only caused undue suffering to patients but also created backlogs that may take years to clear, potentially leading to avoidable complications and increased mortality rates.

Threats to Vaccination Programs

Vaccination programs, which have been pivotal in eradicating and controlling deadly diseases, faced significant challenges during the pandemic. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and fear of exposure led to decreased vaccine coverage, leaving vulnerable populations at risk. Childhood immunization rates dropped, leading to the resurgence of preventable diseases like measles and polio in some regions. Additionally, the diversion of healthcare resources to combat COVID-19 affected vaccine production and distribution, delaying efforts to reach global vaccination targets.

Struggles in Maternal and Child Health

The pandemic has particularly impacted maternal and child health initiatives, jeopardizing the progress made in reducing maternal mortality rates and improving child survival. Pregnant women faced increased risks, both due to the virus itself and the limited access to antenatal care. Furthermore, disruptions in healthcare systems hindered childbirth services, causing complications for expectant mothers and newborns. The pandemic highlighted the importance of safeguarding maternal and child health programs to protect vulnerable populations during crises.

Mental Health Crisis Amidst the Pandemic

While the immediate focus was on physical health, the pandemic triggered an alarming mental health crisis worldwide. The prolonged isolation, fear, grief, and uncertainty led to a surge in mental health disorders. Many people grappled with anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges as they coped with the impacts of the pandemic. Unfortunately, mental health support and services were often inadequately equipped to handle the surge in demand. The strain on mental health caused by the pandemic is likely to have lasting effects, demanding greater attention and investment in mental healthcare.

The Inequality Amplifier

COVID-19 has laid bare the stark inequalities in global health. Vulnerable populations, including low-income communities, racial minorities, and marginalized groups, have borne the brunt of the pandemic's impact. Disparities in access to healthcare, education, and basic amenities have exacerbated the spread of the virus and its consequences. Moreover, the pandemic's economic fallout has disproportionately affected those already facing social and economic hardships, further widening the gap between the haves and have-nots.

Backsliding in Infectious Disease Control

Before the pandemic, significant progress had been made in controlling various infectious diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. However, the diversion of resources and attention to COVID-19 has led to setbacks in the fight against these diseases. Interruptions in testing, diagnosis, and treatment programs have contributed to resurgences and the potential development of drug resistance. The gains made in combating these deadly diseases are now at risk of being reversed.

Global Health Diplomacy and Cooperation

The pandemic has exposed the critical importance of global health diplomacy and cooperation. The virus knows no borders, and international collaboration is essential to combatting its spread effectively. However, the pandemic has strained relationships between nations, with some resorting to vaccine nationalism and hoarding essential medical supplies. Such actions not only hinder equitable vaccine distribution but also undermine global efforts to control the virus and its variants.

Rebuilding a Resilient Global Health Landscape

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there is hope for rebuilding a resilient global health landscape. As the world slowly recovers from the immediate impacts of COVID-19, there is an urgent need for governments, organizations, and individuals to come together and address the systemic issues highlighted during the crisis.

Key areas that demand attention include strengthening healthcare systems to ensure they can handle future crises without compromising routine medical care. Equitable access to healthcare and vaccination programs must be prioritized to bridge the gaps in global health inequalities. Special attention must be given to maternal and child health, mental healthcare, and infectious disease control, which have been disproportionately impacted.

Furthermore, fostering global health diplomacy and cooperation is crucial to establish a coordinated response to future health emergencies. Learning from the pandemic, nations must commit to open communication, knowledge sharing, and resource allocation to tackle global health challenges collectively.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the fragility of global health progress. The unseen fallout threatens to undo decades of hard-won achievements, amplifying existing disparities and vulnerabilities. However, it also presents an opportunity for governments, organizations, and individuals to rethink their priorities, address systemic issues, and build a more resilient global health landscape. By working together, we can ensure that the setbacks caused by the pandemic become a catalyst for positive change, propelling us towards a healthier, more equitable world for all.

What's In It For Me? (WIIFM)

In this eye-opening blog article, discover how the COVID-19 pandemic is jeopardizing decades of progress in global health. Gain insight into the unseen fallout on healthcare systems, vaccination programs, maternal and child health, mental health, and infectious disease control. Understand the implications of the pandemic's impact on global health inequalities and learn how we can collectively rebuild a resilient health landscape. Stay informed about the challenges we face and the opportunities for positive change in the face of this unprecedented crisis.

Call to Action (CTA)

Now is the time to act! Join the movement to safeguard global health progress by raising awareness about the threats posed by COVID-19. Share this blog article with your friends, family, and colleagues to spread knowledge about the unseen fallout and its impact on healthcare systems worldwide. Support initiatives that focus on equitable access to healthcare, vaccination programs, and mental health services. Together, we can rebuild a resilient global health landscape and ensure a healthier future for all.

Blog Excerpt

As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, it's crucial to understand the far-reaching consequences it poses beyond the immediate health crisis. In this blog article, we explore the alarming threats to decades of progress in global health. From the disruption of healthcare systems to setbacks in vaccination programs and the exacerbation of health inequalities, the pandemic has unleashed a cascade of challenges. However, amid these adversities, there lies an opportunity for positive change and rebuilding a stronger, more equitable health landscape. Read on to learn how you can be a part of this transformative journey.

Meta Description (320 characters)

Explore the unseen fallout of COVID-19 on global health progress. Learn about threats to healthcare systems, vaccination programs, and health inequalities. Discover opportunities for positive change.

[ngdrb]

The accomplishments of Joe Biden during his presidency

Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, assumed office at a pivotal moment in history, facing a myriad of challenges ranging from a global pandemic to economic uncertainty and social unrest.

Throughout his presidency, President Biden has pursued an ambitious agenda aimed at addressing these pressing issues and advancing key policy priorities. In this essay, we will examine some of the notable accomplishments of Joe Biden during his time in office and the impact of his leadership on the nation.

One of the most significant accomplishments of President Biden during his presidency has been his administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Upon taking office, President Biden made the pandemic a top priority and swiftly implemented a national strategy to combat the spread of the virus and accelerate the vaccination campaign.

Under his leadership, the administration successfully exceeded its initial goal of administering 100 million vaccine doses within the first 100 days, ultimately surpassing 200 million doses. This aggressive vaccination effort has been instrumental in curbing the spread of the virus and has contributed to a significant reduction in COVID-19 cases and deaths across the country.

 In addition to his focus on public health, President Biden has made substantial strides in revitalizing the American economy in the wake of the pandemic. The administration's American Rescue Plan, a comprehensive COVID-19 relief package, provided much-needed financial assistance to individuals, families, and businesses impacted by the economic downturn. The plan included direct stimulus payments to Americans, extended unemployment benefits, support for small businesses, and funding for vaccine distribution and testing. 

President Biden's economic agenda has also centered on job creation and infrastructure investment, culminating in the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a historic legislation that allocates substantial funding for modernizing the nation's infrastructure, creating millions of jobs, and bolstering economic growth. Furthermore, President Biden has been a vocal advocate for advancing racial equity and social justice in the United States. His administration has taken concrete steps to address systemic inequalities and promote inclusivity, including the signing of executive orders to combat discrimination, promote fair housing, and strengthen tribal sovereignty. 

Additionally, President Biden signed into law the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. These actions underscore the administration's commitment to confronting the legacy of racism and fostering a more equitable society for all Americans.

 Moreover, President Biden has demonstrated a strong commitment to combating climate change and advancing environmental sustainability.

 His administration rejoined the Paris Agreement on climate change, signaling a renewed dedication to global cooperation in addressing the climate crisis. In November 2021, President Biden convened a virtual Leaders Summit on Climate, bringing together world leaders to discuss ambitious measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the transition to clean energy. 

Additionally, the administration has unveiled a comprehensive plan to invest in clean energy infrastructure, promote energy efficiency, and prioritize environmental justice, aiming to position the United States as a global leader in the fight against climate change. 

In the realm of foreign policy, President Biden has sought to reassert American leadership on the world stage and rebuild alliances with international partners. His administration has prioritized diplomacy and multilateral engagement, working to address global challenges such as nuclear proliferation, cybersecurity threats, and human rights abuses. 

President Biden has reaffirmed the United States' commitment to NATO and other key alliances, signaling a departure from the isolationist policies of the previous administration. His approach to foreign affairs has emphasized the importance of collaboration and collective action in tackling shared global concerns, fostering a more cohesive and cooperative international order. Furthermore, 

President Biden has been a steadfast proponent of expanding access to affordable healthcare and strengthening the Affordable Care Act. His administration has taken steps to bolster the ACA, including increasing enrollment outreach, expanding coverage options, and lowering healthcare costs for millions of Americans. 

President Biden has also championed efforts to address mental health challenges and substance abuse disorders, recognizing the critical importance of mental and behavioral health in overall well-being. 

In conclusion, President Joe Biden has achieved a range of significant accomplishments during his tenure in office, from his swift and effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic to his ambitious efforts to revitalize the economy, promote racial equity, combat climate change, and reinvigorate America's role in global affairs. 

His leadership has been marked by a steadfast commitment to addressing pressing domestic and international challenges and advancing a progressive policy agenda aimed at fostering a more equitable, resilient, and prosperous future for the nation. As his presidency continues to unfold, the enduring impact of his accomplishments is likely to shape the trajectory of the United States for years to come, leaving a lasting imprint on the fabric of American society and the global community.

[rileyedunn]

Caught in the Currents of History: The Fatigue of the 2020s

The exhaustion of living through major historical moments is a feeling that transcends time, but in the age of constant connectivity and rapid spread of information, it feels particularly amplified today. The tweet by @aardvarsk, "I am tired of being a part of a major historical event," was able to resonate with millions because it captured the collective point of view of a generation trying to navigate the overwhelming weight of the pandemic, political chaos, social upheaval, and environmental disasters. It's a feeling of fatigue that often goes unspoken—how do you remain engaged with a world in crisis without giving in to burnout or passivity?

When I think about this, it reminds me about how throughout history there has also been other illnesses that have caused issues as well. A century ago, during the Spanish Flu of 1918, people similarly found themselves at the center of a global crisis. Though the exact nature of their exhaustion may not have been articulated in the same way, it’s likely they felt a deep weariness from living through a pandemic that came after devastating world war. As a matter of fact, the 1910s were marked by multiple historical moments that were exhausting in their own right. It is important to acknowledge the trauma of World War I, the collapse of empires, and a pandemic that killed millions globally. Yet, people at the time didn’t have the same ability to process or reflect on these events in real-time as we do now. News was slower to travel, and the sheer volume of information was less overwhelming. People couldn't compare the trauma of a world war to the impact of a deadly flu virus on social media, or immediately see how their governments were responding to the crisis via 24-hour news cycles. There was no place for collective venting or solidarity on the internet. People were also not less educated, but educated differently. There has been many discoveries since these times, and on a medical standpoint, we are much better off now then we were back during the Spanish flu. People back then had less resources to help prevent and recover.

The ways in which the 2020s are being experienced, we have seen the pandemic, the political volatility, the economic insecurities, the global warming crises. They are all compounded by our hyper-connected world. Unlike the past, where major historical events were felt in isolation, we now live in an era where each disaster or crisis is amplified through real-time information. The emotional toll is not just from the events themselves but from the constant awareness of them. Social media and 24-hour news cycles provide an unrelenting reminder of how much is happening globally, leaving us no room to escape the feeling that history is unfolding around us, and we are not just witnesses, but active participants in it.

In the future, when historians look back at the 2020s, they will undoubtedly frame it as a time of shifts - pandemics, environmental disasters, technological advances, and political upheaval. The pandemic alone will likely be remembered not only for the loss of life and the disruption of economies, but also for its global impact on mental health, the change of social norms, and the profound shifts in how we work, communicate, and live in community. But we also have to realize and look back on how much has changed. It is hard at times since there is so many ways we can see changes, but accepting that life is changing. It calls for a societal shift on what is perceived as normal. The circumstances faced show that our world is changing drastically, and we need to adapt. The Covid 19 virus came, and it came fast. Peoples lives were changing overnight. We need to see there will be other, quieter moments—like the exhaustion captured in @aardvarsk's tweet—that speak to the collective emotional burden of a world in crisis. The exhaustion of being a part of history might become its own historical marker, revealing how people in the 2020s grappled with their roles in such a transformative time.

Yet, perhaps the tweet also expresses a fundamental human desire to simply escape, even temporarily, the weight of the world. The weariness of being part of history reflects the realization that while we are shaping it, we are also subjected to it. Our agency is limited, and we can only do so much before we begin to feel like mere actors in a larger, uncontrollable narrative. Things happen, and we can't always control what we are given.This tension between action and fatigue, the desire to act and the need to rest is one of the defining emotional experiences of the 2020s

But even as history unfolds, what is clear now is the exhaustion of being aware of it all, the knowledge that no moment, no event, no era is truly separate from the next. We live through it, watch it unfold, and often feel helpless to change it. The pandemic has shown us that we are all part of a larger historical arc, whether we want to be or not. And with that comes both a responsibility to engage and a deep, universal fatigue in knowing that, sometimes, it’s just too much to handle.

In the end, the fatigue of living through major historical moments isn’t unique to this era. It’s as old as history itself. But in this moment, we feel it more intensely, more collectively, and more openly than ever before. And that may be its own kind of historical marker.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved on our archive

Whenever you hear someone trying to blame kid's poor test scores "post pandemic" on "lockdowns," show them this.

By Dr. Sushama R. Chaphalkar, PhD.

New research shows that mild COVID-19 alters brain structure and connectivity in key areas responsible for memory and cognition, emphasizing the lasting effects on young people’s brain health.

In a case-control study published in the journal Translational Psychiatry, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cognitive tests to examine brain structure, function, and cognition in adolescents and young adults with mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to healthy controls in a pandemic hotspot in Italy. They identified significant changes in brain regions related to olfaction and cognition, with decreased brain volume and reduced functional connectivity in areas like the left hippocampus and amygdala, which were linked to impaired spatial working memory. Notably, no significant differences were observed in whole-brain connectivity, suggesting that these changes were localized rather than widespread.

Background COVID-19, primarily known for respiratory symptoms, also affects the central nervous system, leading to neurological issues like headaches, anosmia, and cognitive changes. MRI-based studies reveal anatomical brain changes in COVID-19 patients, such as reduced gray matter and decreased volume in regions like the hippocampus and amygdala, often linked to cognitive deficits.

While research mostly focuses on severe cases and older adults, a majority of infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19, occur in adolescents and young adults who also experience long-lasting cognitive symptoms.

This age group, undergoing key brain development, is impacted by changes in spatial working memory and brain structure, which are crucial for cognitive functions shaped by social interactions, significantly disrupted by the pandemic.

Given that this is the largest and most understudied population affected by COVID-19, understanding the brain and cognitive impacts in adolescents and young adults is vital.

Therefore, researchers in the present study compared anatomical, functional, and cognitive outcomes, utilizing a longitudinal design that allowed them to assess both pre- and post-infection differences, in COVID-19-positive and negative adolescents and young adults from Lombardy, Italy, a global hotspot during the pandemic.

About the study The present study involved participants from the Public Health Impact of Metal Exposure (PHIME) cohort, a longitudinal investigation of adolescents and young adults in northern Italy. Between 2016 and 2021, 207 participants, aged 13 to 25 years, were included in a sub-study with MRI scans and cognitive tests. After COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, 40 participants (13 COVID+ and 27 COVID−) participated in a follow-up study, which replicated the MRI and cognitive assessments.

The mean age of participants was 20.44 years and 65% were female. COVID+ status was confirmed through positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests within 12 months of follow-up. Neuropsychological assessments used the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) to evaluate spatial working memory.

MRI and functional MRI data were acquired using a 3-Tesla scanner, processed, and analyzed for structural and local functional connectivity using eigenvector centrality mapping (ECM) and functional connectivity (FC) metrics. Whole-brain functional connectivity metrics showed no significant differences between COVID+ and control groups, indicating that the observed changes were specific to key brain regions rather than generalized across the entire brain.

Statistical analysis involved the use of pairwise Student's t-tests, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, linear regression, two-waves mediation analysis, negative binomial regression, and linear regression, all adjusted for covariates.

Results and discussion Significant differences were observed in the two groups regarding the time between assessments, COVID-19 symptoms, and vaccine status. The research identified five localized functional connectivity hubs with significant differences between the two groups, including the right intracalcarine cortex, right lingual gyrus, left frontal orbital cortex, left hippocampus and left amygdala, which is vital for cognitive functions. Only the left hippocampal volume showed a significant reduction in COVID+ participants (p = 0.034), while whole-brain connectivity remained unchanged, reinforcing the localized nature of the brain changes.

The left amygdala mediated the relationship between COVID-19 and spatial working memory "between errors" (p = 0.028), a critical finding that highlights the indirect effect of amygdala connectivity on cognitive function in COVID+ individuals. This mediation analysis underscores the role of specific brain regions in influencing cognitive deficits, as only the indirect effect was statistically significant for spatial working memory errors. The orbitofrontal cortex, involved in sensory integration and cognitive functions, also showed decreased connectivity in COVID+ individuals, supporting previous findings of structural and functional changes in this region during COVID-19.

The study is limited by small sample size, lack of diversity, potential confounding factors due to the long interval between MRI scans, treatment of certain subjects as COVID-negative based on antibody testing beyond the 12-month threshold, and the possibility of non-significant findings in mediation analysis due to these factors.

Conclusion In conclusion, the findings indicate persistent structural and functional alterations in specific brain regions of COVID-19-positive adolescents and young adults, including changes in gray matter volume and localized functional connectivity, which correlate with diminished cognitive function, particularly in working memory.

Further research is necessary to evaluate the longevity and potential reversibility of these brain and cognitive changes post-infection, enhancing our understanding of post-COVID outcomes and informing future interventions and treatments. The longitudinal design of this study, with pre- and post-COVID data, strengthens these findings by allowing direct comparisons over time, offering robust insights into the impact of COVID-19 on adolescent brain development.

Journal reference: COVID-19 related cognitive, structural and functional brain changes among Italian adolescents and young adults: a multimodal longitudinal case-control study. Invernizzi, A. et al., Translational Psychiatry, 14, 402 (2024), DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-03108-2, www.nature.com/articles/s41398-024-03108-2