COVID Pandemic Shortened U.S. Life Expectancy by More Than a Year

• Robert Preidt
• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly shortened life expectancy in the United States, especially among Black people and Hispanics, a new study says.

With more than 336,000 COVID-19 deaths nationwide last year, researchers decided to examine the pandemic's impact on life ex...

Should Your Child Get a COVID Test?

• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

If you're trying to decide whether to have your child tested for COVID-19, talk with your pediatrician, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests.

Children and teens with COVID-19 symptoms should be tested immediately. This is especially important if they're goin...

Pharmacy Chains Ready to Supply COVID-19 Vaccines to Americans

• Denise Mann HealthDay Reporter
• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

Now that federal guidelines have expanded COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to include people over 65 and those of all ages with underlying health conditions, drug stores say they are ready, willing and able to start giving the shots.

There's ju...

3 Steps Could Nearly Eliminate COVID Infections on College Campuses: Study

• Robert Preidt
• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

A combination of mask use, social distancing and routine testing would eliminate nearly all COVID-19 infections on U.S. college campuses, a new study claims.

Using a computer model that simulated a semester of a mid-sized college (5,000 students and 1,000 faculty), resea...

What Happened to the Flu This Year?

• Robert Preidt
• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

The United States has far fewer flu cases than normal, and experts say it's probably due to measures people are taking to protect themselves from COVID-19.

Flu season usually peaks between December and February. Influenza typically causes about 45 million illnesses, 810,...

Shorter COVID Quarantine for College Athletes a Good Idea, Study Finds

• Robert Preidt
• January 15, 2021
• Full Page

After SARS-CoV-2 exposure, a 14-day quarantine is standard among university athletes. But shorter quarantines for these athletes, along with mid-quarantine testing, may improve their compliance without increasing the risk that they'll infect others, a new study suggests.

I've Already Had COVID-19, Do I Need the Vaccine?

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• January 14, 2021
• Full Page

Folks who've gotten through a COVID-19 infection might naturally question whether they need to get a coronavirus vaccination when their turn comes.

Experts say they really need the shot anyway, because even after having COVID they might be vulnerable to reinfection.

Even 1 Drink a Day May Raise Your Odds for A-Fib

• Amy Norton HealthDay Reporter
• January 14, 2021
• Full Page

Moderate drinking is often touted as heart-healthy, but a large new study finds that even one drink a day might raise the risk of an abnormal heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation, or a-fib, is a common heart arrhythm...

Lockdowns' Benefits for Air Quality Weren't as Big as Thought: Study

• Robert Preidt
• January 13, 2021
• Full Page

Two types of air pollution declined in cities around the world during initial COVID-19 lockdowns, but one type increased, a new study finds.

Researchers assessed changes in levels of nitrogen dioxide, ozone and fine particulate (PM2.5) air pollution during lockdowns in 1...

Pandemic Is Tied to Big Rise in U.S. Heart Deaths

• Denise Mann HealthDay Reporter
• January 12, 2021
• Full Page

In a finding that highlights another health consequence of the coronavirus pandemic, researchers report that the risk of dying from heart disease increased during the coronavirus lockdowns last spring, likely because people were too scared to go to the hospital.

But the ...

Allergists' Group Offers Guidelines on COVID-19 Vaccines

• January 9, 2021
• Full Page

A task force of allergists and immunologists recommends those administering the COVID-19 vaccine ask patients some key questions beforehand.

While reactions to vaccines are extremely rare, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) said anyone being v...

Biden Says He Will Release All Vaccine Doses After Taking Office

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• January 8, 2021
• Full Page

President-elect Joe Biden plans to release nearly all available doses of COVID-19 vaccine when he takes office, reversing the Trump administration's strategy of holding back half the supply to ensure second doses are available.

The potentially risky move is meant to boos...

Survey Shows Mental Woes Spiked in U.S. Pandemic's First Months

• Cara Murez
• January 6, 2021
• Full Page

It may be no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic is causing some Americans significant psychological distress. That mental trauma hit people hard, even early in the pandemic, new research shows.

A new RAND Corporation study reports that more than 10% of Americans surveye...

Global Warming May Be Triggering Toxic Algae Blooms Along U.S. West Coast

• Steven Reinberg
• January 5, 2021
• Full Page

New toxic algal blooms have appeared on the U.S. west coast due to an ocean heat wave, a new study finds.

The researchers said that climate change is increasing the frequency of highly toxic algal blooms in this area.

These algae produce a neurotoxin called domoic ...

How to Sleep Better in 2021

• January 1, 2021
• Full Page

If you're like most American adults, you're not getting enough sleep.

This could be the year to change that, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), which recommends adults get at least seven hours of sleep each night. A survey conducted in July showe...

With Pot Rules Relaxed, More U.S. Teens Driving While High: Study

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• December 30, 2020
• Full Page

America's roads are notoriously unsafe on New Year's Eve, and a new study shows that marijuana legalization could be making the situation even worse.

Almost half of teenagers who regularly use pot admit they've gotten behind the wheel while stoned, a new study in

Masks Do Make Faces Harder to Recognize, Study Shows

• Robert Preidt
• December 30, 2020
• Full Page

A new study confirms what you likely already know from experience -- it can be hard to recognize people when they're wearing masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"For those of you who don't always recognize a friend or acquaintance wearing a mask, you are not alone," said...

Masks Don't Mask Others' Emotions for Kids

• Robert Preidt
• December 29, 2020
• Full Page

Children can still read the emotional expressions of people wearing masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers say.

"We now have this situation where adults and kids have to interact all the time with people whose faces are partly covered, and a lot of adults are wo...

How to Stay Safe From Falls, Freezing This Winter

• December 27, 2020
• Full Page

Outdoor activities can help you keep fit this winter while staying safe from COVID-19, but you need to take precautions to reduce your risk of injury, an expert says.

Skiing and snowboarding are good examples. Falls are common in these sports, but proper technique and sa...

Caring for Elderly Loved Ones During a Holiday Lockdown

• December 24, 2020
• Full Page

While everyone is dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults may feel the loss of holiday traditions the most.

It is possible to make this season feel joyful, even with all the changes. It's also a good time to check on their health and boost their mo...

Hurricanes Leave Rise in Hospitalizations in Their Wake

• Robert Preidt
• December 23, 2020
• Full Page

Hospitals are swamped with older patients after hurricanes, a new study finds.

Researchers analyzed data on hospitalizations for adults 65 and older in the month following eight of the United States' largest hurricanes in recent years.

In this age group, post-hurri...

How to Guard Against Home Heating Hazards

• Robert Preidt
• December 18, 2020
• Full Page

Many Americans are working at home or attending school virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased use of home heating and its potential risks, an expert says.

Heating sources can pose electrical hazards and fire dangers, noted Purnima Unni, manager of t...

Schools, Day Care Not a Big Factor in Kids Getting COVID: Study

• Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter
• December 17, 2020
• Full Page

As a rule, COVID-19 spreads rapidly in most groups, but new research suggests that schools and day care centers appear to be the exception.

Among those under 18, the virus is easily spread by close contact with family members who have COVID-19 and at gatherings where peo...

Narrow Hallways Ideal for Coronavirus Spread: Study

• Robert Preidt
• December 17, 2020
• Full Page

You might want to think twice before you enter a hallway with strangers during the pandemic: Researchers report that following a fast-walking person with COVID-19 down a narrow corridor could increase your risk of infection, even if you keep your distance.

That's beca...

USPS Cuts Could Pose Harm If Mail-Order Meds Delayed: Study

• Alan Mozes HealthDay Reporter
• December 16, 2020
• Full Page

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 16, 2020 (HealthDay)-- Delayed mail delivery due to a push from the White House and others to slash spending and services could have enormous consequences for Americans who depend on the U.S. Postal Service for access to urgently needed prescription medications...

Loneliness Continues to Rise for Americans Under Lockdown

• Denise Mann HealthDay Reporter
• December 15, 2020
• Full Page

Loneliness, particularly among folks under shelter-in-place orders, is a growing issue for Americans during the coronavirus pandemic, new research finds.

More people report they are feeling lonely, depressed and even harboring thoughts of suicide as COVID-19 cases in the...

Allergists' Group Offers Advice on Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine

• Robert Preidt
• December 15, 2020
• Full Page

Americans may have questions about possible allergic reactions as immunization with the first COVID-19 vaccine begins, and allergy experts can provide some answers.

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine received emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administratio...

Why COVID Lies on Social Media Are So Seductive

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• December 14, 2020
• Full Page

Nearly all cases of COVID-19 are completely harmless. Masks deprive people of oxygen. COVID-19 is a hoax, dreamed up by politicians to control your life.

None of these statements is true, and yet every one has spread like wildfire through social media at one point or...

Avoid Allergy Flare-Ups This Holiday Season

• December 13, 2020
• Full Page

Doctors are warning about the threat of COVID-19 transmission as cold weather forces people indoors. But indoor allergies could also take the joy out of your holiday season, an expert says.

Dust, mold, pets, furniture and houseplants can cause indoor allergies, said Dr. ...

If You Already Had COVID, Do You Need the COVID Vaccine?

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• December 11, 2020
• Full Page

More than 15 million Americans have been infected by the COVID-19 virus, and many may be questioning whether they need to receive one of the two coronavirus vaccines now on the verge of approval from U.S. regulators.

Short answer: Yes.

"They will be asked to stand ...

329 Americans Are Injured by Guns Every Day: Study

• Cara Murez
• December 11, 2020
• Full Page

Firearm injury is a major health crisis in the United States and new research sheds more light on how many of those who are injured survive and the circumstances of their shootings.

For the study, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University an...

Saliva Equals Nasal Swab for COVID Test Accuracy

• Cara Murez
• December 11, 2020
• Full Page

A self-collected saliva sample is as good at detecting COVID-19 as a nasal swab administered by a health care worker -- without exposing medical staff to the virus while collecting the sample.

"The current pandemic has placed a significant strain on the supply chain, fro...

High-Dose Flu Shot No Better for Heart Patients

• Robert Preidt
• December 10, 2020
• Full Page

Getting a high-dose flu shot instead of a regular dose doesn't further reduce the risk of serious flu-complications, hospitalization or death in people with heart disease, new research shows.

The findings don't change established guidelines. Heart disease patients a...

Scientists Test Safest Way Driver, Passengers Can Avoid COVID Spread

• Robert Preidt
• December 7, 2020
• Full Page

Traveling in a car with another person during the pandemic? Certain key steps might cut the odds of coronavirus spread during the trip, researchers say.

One big move that helps: Drive with all four windows down and have the passenger sit in the rear seat on the opposite ...

How Safe Are the New COVID Vaccines?

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• December 4, 2020
• Full Page

Two COVID-19 vaccines are on the verge of approval in the United States, with pharmaceutical companies promising that millions of doses will be available to the first wave of recipients within a matter of weeks.

Creating two vaccines in less than a year is an astonishing...

Youth Vaping Rates Have Plunged During Lockdown: Study

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• December 3, 2020
• Full Page

Vaping among teens and young adults has decreased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, with two-thirds of e-cigarette users reporting that they've either cut back or quit, a new study says.

About 32% of e-cigarette users said they quit this year and another 35% rep...

Football-Loving States Drop The Ball on Concussion: Study

• Robert Preidt
• December 3, 2020
• Full Page

States with strong football cultures have often fumbled measures to protect young players who've suffered concussions, researchers say.

They analyzed youth concussion laws introduced by states between 2007 and 2014, specifically guidelines requiring a 24-hour delay befor...

Pandemic Is Devastating Low-Income Black Households

• Robert Preidt
• December 3, 2020
• Full Page

Low-income Black Americans had more job losses, more difficulty getting food and medicine, and higher levels of debt in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic than their white or Hispanic peers, a new study finds.

"Media coverage has focused on the racially disparate ...

Should Cancer Survivors Be Prioritized for COVID Vaccine?

• Robert Preidt
• December 2, 2020
• Full Page

Cancer survivors have higher odds of dying from seasonal flu, suggesting they may also be at increased risk from COVID-19 and may need to be among the first in line for vaccination against both diseases.

Researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine...

Some Talc Products Contain Asbestos: Study

• Cara Murez
• November 30, 2020
• Full Page

Nearly 15% of talc-based cosmetic products analyzed in a recent study contained asbestos.

Environmental Working Group (EWG) -- an American advocacy nonprofit that commissioned the tests and did the analysis -- said methods used by the cosmetics industry to screen talc su...

Wood-Fired Cooking a Cause of Lung Illness in Developing World

• November 26, 2020
• Full Page

People who cook with wood instead of other fuels may be at risk of lung damage because of the pollutants and bacterial toxins they're breathing, a small study suggests.

Researchers studied the impact of cookstove pollutants on 23 people in Thanjavur, India, who use lique...

COVID Cases Could Double by Biden's Inauguration: Study

• Robert Preidt
• November 24, 2020
• Full Page

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States is likely to nearly double before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration, researchers warn.

Cases could rise from 11.4 million to 20 million by the end of January, according to a study published Nov. 23 in the...

Poll: 1 in 3 Parents Pick Holiday Gathering Over COVID Safety

• Cara Murez HealthDay Reporter
• November 23, 2020
• Full Page

As COVID-19 cases surge throughout the United States and the holiday season kicks off with Thanksgiving on Thursday, families are faced with a challenging choice.

Do they skip family gatherings and the usual way they celebrate their traditions? Or do they risk bringing t...

Parents' Age Key to Whether Kids Get Vaccinated Against COVID, Study Finds

• Cara Murez
• November 23, 2020
• Full Page

As scientists worked on COVID-19 vaccines, other researchers were addressing a question: Once shots are available, will parents vaccinate their kids against the new coronavirus?

The answer: Younger parents are much less likely than older ones to plan to vaccinate their c...

College Kid Coming Home for Thanksgiving? Here's How to Keep Your Family Safe

• Cara Murez
• November 23, 2020
• Full Page

As college students prepare to leave their campuses for Thanksgiving or study remotely for the rest of the semester, families should consider their risks and work to reduce them, according to an infectious disease expert.

Dr. David Cennimo, an assistant professor in pedi...

Will Biden 'De-Politicize' COVID?

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• November 20, 2020
• Full Page

President-elect Joe Biden campaigned on big plans for health care, many of which would face an uphill road if the U.S. Senate remains in Republican hands.

But one of the first contributions Biden will make to America's health also will be one of the most important, exper...

Stay Home This Holiday, CDC and Medical Groups Urge

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• November 19, 2020
• Full Page

Americans should stay home and avoid big Thanksgiving gatherings, leading public health agencies and medical societies warn as COVID-19 surges and pandemic deaths in the United States pass 250,000.

At a press conference held Thursday, officials at the U.S. Centers for Di...

COVID in Pregnancy Won't Affect Obstetric Outcomes: Study

• Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter
• November 19, 2020
• Full Page

Pregnant women with COVID-19 have little risk of developing severe symptoms, as do their newborns, a new study finds.

In fact, 95% of these women have good outcomes, and just 3% of their babies test positive for COVID-19, researchers say.

"For 5% of COVID-19-positi...

With Cold Weather Forcing Patrons Inside, How Safe Are Restaurants?

• Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter
• November 19, 2020
• Full Page

Restaurants are under increasing pressure to provide a safe dining environment as winter approaches and the United States enters what could be the worst wave yet of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some eateries are attempting to extend outdoor dining into the colder winter months...

Got Leftover Meds? Ditch Them at Pharmacy Drop Boxes

• Robert Preidt
• November 19, 2020
• Full Page

Medication drop boxes at pharmacies are a safe and secure way for people to dispose of unwanted drugs, but many people are unaware of them, a new study finds.

Medications placed in the drop boxes are collected and typically incinerated or disposed of as hazardous waste.<...