This Week in Virology TWiV 1284: Clinical update with Dr. Daniel Griffin
Jan 3, 2026
Dr. Daniel Griffin, a physician and infectious disease specialist, provides insight into the current landscape of respiratory viruses and vaccine-preventable illnesses. He discusses the alarming rise in whooping cough and low tetanus vaccination rates. Griffin analyzes the surge in flu cases, particularly in New York, and shares recent statistics on measles and RSV. He highlights public health challenges, urges action against anti-science sentiments, and offers guidance on navigating long COVID. Tune in for an engaging blend of clinical updates and urgent public health messages.
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Return To Evidence-Based Medicine
- Evidence-based medicine replaces intuition and emphasizes clinical research and formal rules of evidence.
- Daniel Griffin highlights that undermining this approach in 2025 risks patient harm and setbacks in care.
Vaccinate To Prevent Whooping Cough
- Get vaccinated to prevent pertussis; outbreaks caused nearly 28,000 US cases and 13 deaths this year.
- Daniel Griffin stresses vaccination prevents child deaths and counters misinformation.
Tetanus Cases Rising With Lower Vaccination
- Falling tetanus vaccination rates correlate with rising case counts in the US, from ~15–28 annually to 37 confirmed cases this year.
- Griffin reminds listeners that tetanus causes severe spasms, broken bones, and neonatal deaths when it returns.
