Short Wave Pondering A New Normal As The Omicron Surge Continues
Jan 11, 2022
Allison Aubrey, a regular contributor skilled in public health, joins to discuss the ongoing Omicron variant surge. They analyze how vaccination impacts health outcomes, particularly among children, as hospitalization rates rise. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on healthcare professionals and emphasizes urgent vaccination efforts. They also explore shifting COVID-19 towards endemic status, suggesting new public health strategies similar to seasonal flu. Finally, adaptive strategies to navigate this challenging phase are revealed, offering hope for a more manageable future.
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Omicron Surge Impact
- The Omicron surge is causing record-breaking COVID cases and hospitalizations.
- Unvaccinated individuals are 17 times more likely to be hospitalized, says the CDC.
Omicron Severity
- Omicron may be less severe than Delta, with about half the hospitalization risk, according to a Case Western study.
- It remains dangerous, especially for the unvaccinated and immunocompromised.
Unvaccinated Deaths
- Dr. Lance Becker shared heartbreaking stories of unvaccinated people dying.
- Families sometimes request vaccination as their loved ones are dying, but it's too late.