The risk for catching the new coronavirus from surfaces is low, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said this week in what some experts say is a long overdue announcement.
Findings that COVID can infect the mouth shouldn’t disrupt your dental care
Scientists recently discovered that the SARS-CoV-2 virus—the culprit behind COVID—can specifically infect cells in the mouth and may travel in saliva. That news, while promising for future research, doesn’t translate to big changes in the precautions already being taken to prevent the spread of the virus at the dentist office, and definitely shouldn’t make people …
Viking DNA and the pitfalls of genetic ancestry tests
A middle-aged white man raises his sword to the skies and roars to the gods. The results of his genetic ancestry test have just arrived in his suburban mailbox. His eyes fill with tears as he learns that he is “0.012% Viking.” These are the scenes from a video advertisement for the TV-series Vikings.
Bacterial molecule may be key to fighting stomach cancer
Humans are exposed to many types of bacteria daily, the majority of which are harmless. However, some bacteria are pathogenic, which means they can cause disease. An extremely common pathogenic bacterial infection is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in the stomach, where it can lead to chronic inflammation (gastritis), ulcers, and even cancer. A group of …
COVID vaccines trigger protective immune response in nursing home residents
Older adults in long-term care develop detectible antibodies after COVID-19 vaccination, which may mean it’s safe to reopen these facilities, according to a new study.
Expert answers questions about AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
Many people have questions about the changing guidelines for the use of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine. Here are some answers from infectious disease specialist Dr. Alexander Wong.
Last Call: ‘Shameless’ Showrunner Says Goodbye to the Gallaghers
John Wells discussed the impact of the pandemic and police protests on Sunday’s series finale.
AstraZeneca’s damaged vaccine confidence: Government must urgently restore it
The federal government’s recommendation last week that the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is now the preferred vaccine for adults under 50 has shaken public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
When chest pain hits, it’s best to call an ambulance
The value of calling an ambulance when chest pain strikes, rather than arranging your own transport, has been confirmed by new research published today by the Medical Journal of Australia.
Tottenham star Son Heung-Min racially abused online after Premier League defeat
Tottenham Hotspur has condemned the “abhorrent” online abuse directed at star player Son Heung-Min after the side’s 3-1 Premier League defeat by Manchester United on Sunday.