First Lady Jill Biden has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, according to a statement from the White House. This comes as new Covid boosters from Pfizer and Moderna are now available at pharmacies nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are recommending one dose of the updated vaccine for everyone six months and older in the US. Some children may be eligible for up to three doses depending on their age and previous vaccination status.
There has been a rise in hospitalizations and deaths from Covid-19 in the US in recent weeks. Global health authorities are also monitoring two new variants, BA.2.86 (Pirola) and EG.5 (Eris). Eris is now responsible for nearly 25% of Covid cases in the US, while Pirola is a newly-designated, highly-mutated variant of Omicron that has triggered a surge in cases in several countries.
Experts are recommending that Americans wear masks when necessary to slow the spread of the virus. Symptoms of Covid-19 may appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure, and can include chills, fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, body or muscle aches, headache, sore throat, congestion, nausea, diarrhea, or loss of taste and smell. It is important to follow guidelines from health authorities if you are exposed to or infected with the virus.
Former Florida Surgeon General Dr Scott Rivkees has criticized the guidance of current Surgeon General Dr Joseph Ladapo, who warned against the risks of the updated vaccines. Rivkees emphasized the safety and efficacy of the vaccines, stating that they are “very, very safe and have a really proven efficacy, particularly against preventing severe disease.”
New variants like Pirola continue to be monitored around the world, and it is too soon to determine the significance of their differences from past variants. It is crucial for individuals to get vaccinated and to stay up-to-date on their vaccines, especially as flu season approaches.
Sources:
– White House statement
– CDC and FDA recommendations
– CDC data on Eris variant
– Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ statement
– Interview with former Florida Surgeon General Dr Scott Rivkees
(Note: article has been paraphrased and expanded upon. There may be additional information beyond what was stated in the source article.)
