COVID-19 News and Updates
Hello all,
Nina Duggan here with the latest COVID-19 news and updates.
This week we will be discussing the antiviral drug Paxlovid, a comprehensive review of the risks of COVID-19 while pregnant, and Dr. Nirav Shah’s new appointment to the U.S. CDC.
COVID Communication:
Paxlovid and seniors: what to know about the COVID treatment
Though COVID-19 has impacted all age groups, in recent months the largest portion of deaths from the disease in the United States has been overwhelmingly (roughly 90%) older adults (those aged 65 and up).
Protective measures, including being up to date on vaccinations, wearing a well-fitted and quality mask in public places, and making sure to wash hands and surfaces frequently and thoroughly are all useful ways to avoid getting the disease. Experts urge those over age 65 who contract COVID-19 to seek treatment with antiviral therapy (i.e. Paxlovid and other antiviral alternatives such as Remdesivir or Molnupiravir). These treatments remain extremely effective at preventing serious illness and death from the virus. Paxlovid is available by prescription for people with mild to moderate risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19.
If you are at increased risk, it’s important to have a plan before you contract the virus. Make sure that you know where you will seek care, whether or not you can take Paxlovid with your current medications or if you’ll need a different treatment, and speak with your doctor beforehand about how to acquire Paxlovid. The medication itself, while being very effective, must be taken within the first five days of the onset of symptoms in order to be effective.
Though Paxlovid does have negative potential interactions with a number of medications and supplements, it’s important to note that most of these interactions can be managed by your doctor on a case-by-case basis. In some instances, they may recommend temporarily reducing dosage or to stop taking a specific medication while on the Paxlovid treatment.
To read the full article visit CNN Health’s What seniors need to know about taking Paxlovid, for more information speak with your primary care physician.
Links and Sources: NYT “Tracking Coronavirus in Maine: latest Map and Case Count”
COVID in the News:
State of COVID-19 in Maine
Over the past two weeks, COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and deaths have all decreased on average. Test positivity currently sits at 10%, though the number of cases is likely higher than reported, due to both home testing and a lag from the holiday season. As we are all continue to gather indoors due to the colder weather and respiratory viruses continue to spread, experts still encourage the precautions we have been taking throughout the pandemic to protect our most vulnerable community members.
COVID-19 and Pregnancy
Experts have long known that the risk of COVID-19 for pregnant individuals is much higher than for someone who is not pregnant. A new comprehensive review of several different studies on the topic underscores just how important vaccination and other preventative measures are for pregnant people.
The review found that, when compared to pregnant people who did not have COVID-19, those infected were 4 times more likely to need an ICU, 15 times more likely to need a ventilator, and 7 times more likely to die. Their risks of pre-eclampsia, blood clots, high blood pressure, preterm birth, and low birth weights were also much higher for those who contracted COVID-19.
Studies have shown that those who are vaccinated have significant decreases in the risk of stillbirth, preterm birth, and severe disease or death for the parent. Furthermore, there’s evidence to suggest that getting vaccinated while pregnant passes protection on to the infant through antibodies in the breastmilk and umbilical cord blood, helping to provide some protection for the infant.
Links and Sources: CNN Health “Large new review underscores the risks of COVID-19 during pregnancy”; National Library of Medicine “Vaccinated mothers pass covid antibodies to babies in utero and through breastmilk, early studies show”
Director of Maine CDC to become second in command at U.S. CDC
Dr. Nirav Shah, director of Maine’s Center for Disease Control, has just been appointed as Principal Deputy Director at the U.S. CDC. Dr. Shah will be leaving his post in Maine after years of leadership helping to guide the state through the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Shah has been largely credited with much of the state’s success in navigating the virus, widely known for his calm leadership and compassion.
Dr. Shah will begin his new position with the US CDC in March.
Full article from Maine Public “Dr. Nirav Shah leaving Maine to become second-in-command at US CDC”
Featured in the Field:
Dr. Nirav Shah
Though he needs little introduction, this week’s feature is on Dr. Nirav Shah. Dr. Shah is the director of the Maine CDC, he manages an up-to-date and informative social media presence, primarily through his Twitter account. Sign up here to receive Nina’s COVID-19 updates via email.
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If you or anyone you know have questions or concerns about COVID-19 or the available vaccines please call or text our COVID-19 Peer Support Line at 207-271-6023, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.