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    The Delta Variant And The Latest Coronavirus Surge

    en-usJuly 20, 2021

    Podcast Summary

    • Delta variant causing surge in coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deathsThe Delta variant is rapidly increasing globally and leading to a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, primarily among unvaccinated individuals. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community.

      The Delta variant of the coronavirus is rapidly becoming the dominant strain in multiple countries and is leading to an increase in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates. The BBC provides valuable information and perspectives on this and other global stories, encouraging listeners to think critically. NPR is also gathering feedback from listeners about their podcasts, including Shortwave, through a survey available at npr.org/podcastsurvey. In the US, the Delta variant is causing a resurgence of coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, primarily among unvaccinated individuals. It's essential to stay informed about this fast-spreading variant and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community. Apple Card offers daily cash rewards on various purchases, and Integrative Therapeutics provides clinician-curated supplements on Amazon.

    • COVID-19 surge in US driven by Delta variant, unvaccinated populationDelta variant is 225% more contagious, increasing risk of hospitalization for unvaccinated individuals. Public health officials urge vaccination to protect and reduce spread.

      The US is currently experiencing a surge in daily COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, driven primarily by the highly transmissible Delta variant. This surge is most prevalent in areas with low vaccination rates, and the vast majority of hospitalizations and deaths are occurring among the unvaccinated population. The Delta variant is estimated to be 225% more contagious than the original strain, making it a significant threat to those who have not been vaccinated. Former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb predicts that the majority of people will either get vaccinated, have previously been infected, or contract the Delta variant in the coming weeks and months. For those who contract the Delta variant without being vaccinated, the risk of hospitalization is significantly increased. Public health officials continue to urge the roughly 30% of adults in the US who have not yet been vaccinated to get the shots to protect themselves and reduce the spread of the virus.

    • Exploring Mix-and-Match Booster Shots for COVID-19Studies are ongoing to test mix-and-match booster shots for COVID-19, and the CDC is gathering data to determine if immunity from initial vaccines is waning. Older adults and immunocompromised individuals may receive boosters first.

      While the decision on COVID-19 booster shots is still uncertain, studies are being conducted to test the effectiveness of mix-and-match boosters. The CDC is gathering data to determine if immunity from initial vaccines is waning and considering recommending boosters for older adults and immunocompromised individuals. Amidst the surge of the Delta variant, some localities have reinstated mask mandates, but a new national mandate is unlikely. In the meantime, it's recommended that individuals continue to follow safety protocols, including masking up.

    • Masking remains crucial in crowded indoor settings, especially for protecting vulnerable individualsVaccinated individuals should continue wearing masks in close quarters, prioritize vaccinations, follow camp safety guidelines, and encourage mask use when necessary to keep kids safe.

      Masking continues to be an essential public health measure, especially in crowded indoor settings, due to the transmissibility of the current COVID-19 variant and the possibility of fully vaccinated individuals getting infected. Experts recommend that even vaccinated individuals wear masks in close quarters to protect vulnerable individuals, including children who cannot be vaccinated yet. The recent removal of mask mandates by the CDC has been criticized by some health experts, as they argue it disincentivized vaccinations and made it harder for local leaders to reinstate mandates during outbreaks. With summer camps and break season underway, parents are advised to prioritize vaccinations, follow camp safety guidelines, and encourage mask use when necessary to keep kids safe.

    • Safeguarding Sleepaway Camps from COVID-19Camps are taking measures like pre-arrival testing and quarantining to prevent COVID-19 outbreaks. Families must follow these protocols for a safe camping experience.

      Sleepaway camps require extra precautions this summer due to the higher risk of COVID-19 outbreaks. Kids are in close quarters, making it easier for the virus to spread. Camps are implementing measures such as pre-arrival testing and quarantining children for at least 5-7 days before arrival. Minors, who cannot be vaccinated yet, are particularly at risk. It's crucial for camps to enforce these protocols and for families to follow them to ensure a safe camping experience. Overall, staying safe and having fun this summer involves being vigilant and taking necessary precautions. This reporting was brought to you by NPR's Shortwave, a daily science podcast, and Planet Money, a podcast that explains economics through human stories. EasyCater and The Bid supported this episode. EasyCater helps companies order food for meetings and events online, and The Bid features BlackRock's chairman and CEO, Larry Fink, discussing challenges facing investors.

    • Insights from BlackRock on the current state of the bond marketStaying informed about market trends and insights from industry leaders like BlackRock can help investors make more informed decisions and gain a competitive edge.

      Staying informed about market trends and insights from industry leaders like BlackRock can be valuable for investors. In the episode mentioned, BlackRock's thought leaders discussed the current state of the bid market. They provided insights on the factors influencing bids, the potential impact on various industries, and the outlook for the future. By listening to these perspectives, investors can gain a deeper understanding of the market and make more informed decisions. Additionally, subscribing to BlackRock's insights can help investors stay up-to-date on the latest market trends and news, giving them a competitive edge. Overall, staying informed and educated about the market is crucial for investors, and insights from industry leaders like BlackRock can provide valuable perspective and knowledge.

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