How many people need to get a COVID-19 vaccine in order to stop the coronavirus?
Researchers say around 70% of the US needs to get the coronavirus vaccine to stop the pandemic. But questions around the vaccines and regional differences add some uncertainty to that estimate.
Jan. 5, 2021 • ~8 min
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Should pregnant women get the COVID-19 vaccine? Will it protect against asymptomatic infections and mutated viruses? An immunologist answers 3 questions
With vaccines forthcoming for most Americans, many groups, including expectant mothers, are wondering if the vaccine is safe for them and their babies. A physician-scientist explains.
Dec. 23, 2020 • ~6 min
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Will going out in the cold give you a cold?
Going out in the cold won't necessarily lead to you getting a cold. But cold weather in general is more hospitable to viruses, so it's wise to take steps to keep your immune system strong.
Dec. 15, 2020 • ~5 min
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Rapid COVID-19 tests can be useful – but there are far too few to put a dent in the pandemic
In September, production of rapid tests really ramped up in the US. But due to low accuracy and massive numbers needed, these tests alone are unlikely to have much of an effect on the pandemic.
Dec. 1, 2020 • ~8 min
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No, soaring COVID-19 cases are not due to more testing – they show a surging pandemic
COVID-19 cases are skyrocketing across the US. Testing has ramped up over the past few months, but increasing hospitalizations, deaths and test-positivity rates show that the virus is out of control.
Nov. 18, 2020 • ~6 min
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What monoclonal antibodies are – and why we need them as well as a vaccine
Monoclonal antibodies are synthetic molecules manufactured in the lab. But do we need them if a vaccine is on its way?
Nov. 16, 2020 • ~9 min
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Ingredients in flu vaccine won't hurt you – two pharmacists explain why
Many people object to the added ingredients in vaccines. But pharmacists explain why those fears are unwarranted.
Nov. 13, 2020 • ~9 min
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How to host a safe holiday meal during coronavirus – an epidemiologist explains her personal plans
COVID-19 and holiday family gatherings are not a good pair. But taking the right precautions before, during and after the family gets together can greatly reduce coronavirus risk this holiday season.
Nov. 10, 2020 • ~7 min
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Achieving COVID-19 herd immunity through infection is dangerous, deadly and might not even work
Some have suggested the US allow healthy people to return to normal life, catch the coronavirus and get the population to herd immunity. The science says this plan is doomed to fail from the start.
Oct. 28, 2020 • ~10 min
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COVID-19 causes some patients' immune systems to attack their own bodies, which may contribute to severe illness
Are antibodies that attack a patient's own organs contributing to severe forms of COVID-19? A new study suggests specific antibody tests that may reveal the answer.
Oct. 23, 2020 • ~8 min
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