COVID Update
Deadly
COVID has killed many people. Thankfully nowhere near the worst pandemic ever---the Spanish flu. Globally, the Spanish flu killed nearly 1 in 25 people, COVID has killed about 1 in 1,000 globally.
Pandemic Is Over
Although the number of COVID infections in Canada is not as low as last summer, the global COVID death rate is lower than any time since fall 2020. The spread of the Omicron variant achieved something like herd immunity, at least in parts of the globe. Areas with low total COVID infections may still see outbreaks, but it appears that the new variants are not as deadly as previous variants.
Variants
Dangerous COVID variants are still possible, but often viruses mutate to less deadly forms. Viruses want to multiply and spread. It is not in their interest to kill their host. Viruses with the broadest spread often have the least effect on their hosts.
Vaccine
A new COVID vaccine is rolling out in Canada---the Novavax vaccine. It works differently than the others. The Novavax vaccine is a more traditional vaccine than the previous COVID vaccines. Rather than using your body’s RNA to build virus parts, the Novavax recreates the protein spike on the shell of the COVID virus. This teaches your immune system to recognize the COVID virus. The Novavax vaccine has been tested in a combo with the flu vaccine, so we may see it this fall. If you are over 65 or have other risks, then get this or another vaccine if COVID infections rise in your region. But remember, it takes 2 weeks for the vaccine to work.
Treatments
There are now at-home treatments that can be taken soon after infection to reduce the risk of bad outcomes. These treatments must be taken within a few days of infection. If you are at high risk and have symptoms, then get tested immediately. The factors that increase your risk of bad outcomes from COVID are age, diabetes, very overweight, or high blood pressure. At 75, the risk of dying from COVID is roughly 200 times that of a 25-year-old. If you test positive for COVID, call your doctor and ask about the COVID treatment options.
Prevention
The best thing you can do to prepare for any future wave of COVID or any other pandemic is to stay healthy. Exercise is the foundation of a strong body. Stay active and eat well. Take vitamin D and zinc to support immune health. Don’t let worry over potentially bad futures shadow your mind. Be grateful for the good things that come your way. Stay strong mentally and physically.
