Feds shrink Pfizer booster interval to 5 months as omicron surges
By
Alicia Lasek
Jan 05, 2022
The decision is part of an effort to increase the number of booster shot recipients and build up Americans’ immunity in response to skyrocketing COVID-19 cases, officials said.
Long-term care staff warm up to vaccine with 94 percent increase in willingness
By
Alicia Lasek
Mar 24, 2021
The latest surveys show a major shift in LTC staff members’ willingness to receive a coronavirus shot, and that healthcare workers are the most trusted source of vaccine information nationally.
Vetting COVID-19 vaccine in bariatric population is essential, investigator says
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 17, 2020
Judging from the performance of other vaccines, some experts are concerned that a COVID-19 inoculation will be less effective in people with obesity than for those with a lower body mass.
GAO report finds ‘deficiencies’ in HHS’s handling of PHEs
May 15, 2023
Over a decades’ time, these issues have affected the nation’s response not only to COVID-19, but to past public health emergencies including the H1N1 influenza pandemic and extreme weather events...
Mild traumatic brain injuries can disrupt daily function long-term; study suggests targeted follow-up...
By
Alicia Lasek
Jun 04, 2019
People who experience a mild traumatic brain injury are more likely to have lasting deficits that affect the performance of daily activities, a new study finds.
Older adults stalled by stereotypes — even at doctor’s office, study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Feb 22, 2021
Low expectations can have a powerful effect on how well older adults perform on cognitive and motor skills tests, according to a Georgia State University gerontologist.
Feeding tube placement for Parkinson’s often precedes move to nursing home
By
Alicia Lasek
Jul 14, 2020
Discussions about percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy for enteral feeding should include information about survival, complications, and the potential need for long-term care, say investigators.
Diabetes drug turned weight loss med spurs cost-benefit concerns for docs
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 13, 2021
The high price tag and lack of coverage for high-performing anti-obesity drug Wegovy begs the question of what the benefits of weight loss are worth to insurers and patients.
Opt-in COVID vaccine program kicks off; Feds partner with CVS, Walgreens
By
Alicia Lasek
Oct 19, 2020
Long-term care facilities nationwide can voluntarily opt in to a free pharmacy partnership program that will provide and administer future COVID-19 vaccines on site, federal officials announced Friday.
Feds must ramp up efforts against antibiotic resistance: GAO
By
Alicia Lasek
Apr 27, 2023
Federal health agencies must urgently tackle key measures of a plan to curb the rising threat of antibiotic-resistant organisms, according to new testimony released by the Government Accountability Office...