Updated
May 30th, 2023
May 30th, 2023
New variant has allergy-like symptoms?
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The new COVID variant causes allergy-like symptoms.
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As allergy season continues, it is important to know the difference between allergy-like symptoms of COVID-19, and seasonal allergies. They have some shared symptoms like sneezing and watery or itchy eyes. COVID-19 symptoms may also include high fever, chills, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell, or persistent brain fog. Talk to your healthcare provider or get tested if you are experiencing symptoms.
COVID booster guidelines updated?
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"COVID-19 booster guidelines have been updated for adults 65+ and high-risk individuals."
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New COVD-19 booster guidelines were released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on April 19. The updated guidelines recommend that healthy individuals ages six and older receive a booster shot yearly. An additional booster shot is allowed for those sixty-five or older or immunocompromised. Vaccines that target multiple strains of the virus are called â??bivalent vaccinesâ?ť and are now the only recommended vaccines in the U.S.
STL hospitals end mask requirements?
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"More St. Louis hospitals are ending mask requirements."
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Masking related to COVID-19 precautions is now optional in all SSM Health, Mercy, St. Luke's, and BJC hospital facilities for patients, families, and healthcare providers. Patient screening questions for COVID symptoms will continue, and masks will still be available at hospital and clinic entrances in some of these facilities. Patients may also be required to wear masks in certain areas within the hospital. According to the CDC, people should mask to protect immunocompromised individuals, especially in high-risk areas. Overall, wearing a face mask indoors in a public place is effective in reducing the spread of COVID and other viruses.
Mammograms should start at age 40?
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"A new recommendation calls for women to start getting mammograms at age 40 instead of 50."
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The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is proposing that all people assigned female from birth with average risk of breast cancer start screening at age 40 rather than the previously recommended age of 50. This recommendation is based on scientific evidence showing a rising occurrence of breast cancer among people younger than 50. Lowering the age may help with early breast cancer detection and treatment.
Pandemic emergency expires in May?
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The U.S. declaration of COVID-19 as a public health emergency will expire in May.
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In early May, the COVID-19 public health and national emergencies are ending, marking a new stage in the pandemic response. This will limit access to free COVID-19 testing and treatment, depending on one's insurance status and provider. In addition, other changes related to vaccine access, Medicaid renewal, and food aid are expected. It is recommended that individuals use resources from health agencies and consult experts for further information.
Mental health crisis among teens?
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"There is a mental health crisis among teens, especially girls."
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New CDC data show that levels of poor mental health and suicidal risk among teenage girls have now surpassed all previous records over the last decade, with 57% of female students reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021, compared to 36% in 2011. Boys' mental health issues are less prevalent but still on the rise. Mental health challenges appear consistent across ethnic groups but are particularly prevalent for LGBQ+ teens.
Transgender healthcare challenged?
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Transgender healthcare has been challenged by Missouri's attorney general.
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On April 13, Missouri's Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced a new rule that limits transgender healthcare for adults and minors in the state. Under this ruling, individuals must receive eighteen months of mental health care before accessing transgender healthcare. This ruling is separate from the legislation currently being considered by the state government that aims to limit gender-affirming care for minors. Following a countersuit against filed in late April, a St. Louis judge placed a temporary hold on the ruling until May 15.
TOP CONCERNS THIS WEEK
1 New variant has allergy-like symptoms?
2 COVID booster guidelines updated?
3 STL hospitals end mask requirements?
4 Mammograms should start at age 40?
5 Pandemic emergency expires in May?
