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The Economic Impact of COVID-19 Around the World

Photo of man holding small globe — Photo by Ann H from Pexels

Since it was first detected in China in late-2019, no country in the world has been safe from the coronavirus pandemic. A year and a half have passed since the virus has infected the world, but fortunately, vaccines are now readily available. While the global economy is now on the path to a post-recession recovery, governments are still implementing new lockdown measures and businesses are calculating their losses.

This article explores the global impact of coronavirus by assessing the situation in the countries that have been worst-hit by the pandemic:

United States of America

The COVID-19 virus has resulted in both an economic and a public health crisis. It has taken a toll on the health infrastructure and led to an economic slowdown.

The pandemic has been particularly destructive for small businesses, which make up the majority of the businesses in the United States and employ 50% of all private-sector workers. Sectors where employees were unable to work remotely and companies were not fit suffered the most.

The plunge in business activity caused many companies to become insolvent. As many as 420,000 small businesses failed since the very beginning. Damage to the labor market as a result of the pandemic has been the worst in US history.

India

The impact of coronavirus in India has been devastating in terms of economic activity and human lives. Domestic demand and exports have declined sharply, except for some exceptions where growth has been high.

The majority of India’s population comprises daily wage earners and self-employed informal sector workers who don’t have access to social security. These workers are experiencing income as well as food shortages.

The pandemic has revealed and worsened several vulnerabilities in the Indian economy. Factories, eateries, shops, business establishments, and transport services have been heavily affected.

Recession is on the cards as the economy is moving towards a full-year contraction. According to the surveys carried out by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, the unemployment rate has risen in the range of 7.9%-12% in the April-June quarter of 2021. Millions of people have lost their jobs permanently.

Brazil

Brazil’s economy faces a huge challenge due to the virus. The record of deaths in Brazil hit an all-time high in April 2021, with more than 4,200 fatalities within 24 hours.

While the impact of the recession can be felt throughout, smaller firms are the worst affected. This is because they involve substantial face-to-face interactions.

Inflation also rose as Brazil struggled with the second wave of coronavirus. This led to a steep rise in interest rates by the central bank. The 0.1% decline in the GDP of the country was worse than the median prediction of 1.2% growth.

United Kingdom

UK’s GDP declined by 9.9% in 2020. Transport, tourism, hospitality, and arts and entertainment suffered the impact of coronavirus the most.

Economic growth during the summer of 2021 continued to be slow. This was first thought to be the result of the Delta variant as a large number of people were required to self-isolate.

Due to a disruption in global supply chains, some goods have become short in supply. Businesses are also reporting hardship in hiring employees.

As a result of supply issues, inflation rose during 2021. It is expected to continue to rise in 2022.

Russia

The Russian economy has been affected by the coronavirus in various ways. Almost half a million jobs were lost in three major sectors in 2020.

The national poverty rate increased by 13.2%. By October 2020, the unemployment rate shot up to 6.3% – the highest observed in Russia over the past 8 years.

The smaller cities suffered the most as they have frail health care systems. The construction and service sectors were hit the most. They had been a major source of employment for the impoverished cities.

Mexico

The Mexican economy faced the largest contraction since the Tequila Crisis in 1994. In 2020, the output of service-related activities declined by 5.2%. The goods-producing industries faced a decrease in output by 0.5%.

Like other countries, the service industry was affected the most. This primarily includes businesses such as restaurants and hotels. Moreover, the government failed to provide adequate financial support for the economy.

The manufacturing sector has faced relatively few restrictions and avoided disturbance due to the impact on North American supply chains.

On the other hand, the service sector has been unable to recover as much. The absence of financial assistance left several businesses and households with a gaping income loss.

France

France’s economy faced an 8.3% decline in 2020. A recession of this extent had not been recorded in the country since WWII. For instance, the travel and tourism sector’s contribution to the economy declined by as much as 48.8% as a result of travel restrictions.

The unemployment rate reached a 2-year high due to the pandemic. Artisans, retail workers, and self-employed people suffered the most. Nonprofit organizations and food banks are involved in helping the impoverished in France.

According to French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maier, the economic growth of the French economy is based on its COVID-19 vaccination program. He predicted a 5% economic growth rate for the country in 2021.

Final Word

The economic impact of the coronavirus has been felt all over the world. The magnitude of this global health crisis is greater than any during the past 100 years. It is increasing human suffering, killing people, and destroying economies. Countries need to adopt bold and urgent policy measures for economic recovery and financial stability. Hopefully, we are nearing the end of this crisis. We’ll just have to wait and see!

Do You Need to Still Get a Flu Shot During the COVID Pandemic?

COVID-19 Pandemic and Flu – Overview

Healthcare professionals around the world have been concerned about the flu season for the year 2020-2021. It was a time of immense uncertainty as there was a pandemic on the one hand and deadly influenza on the other. While influenza is a minor healthcare concern now (comparatively speaking), it shouldn’t be and over the last decade, the standard flu has resulted in an average of 36,000 deaths each year in the U.S. only. And the numbers may be even higher in other parts of the world.

Surprisingly, last year’s flu season had an unprecedented low number of cases and deaths. According to data by the CDC, only 2136 clinical specimens were tested positive for the influenza virus between October 2020 and July 2021. Moreover, 748 deaths due to the flu were reported in the U.S. Furthermore, if you look at the statistics from the previous years, an average of 75 to 150 children die as a result of influenza each year during the flu season. However, last year, the number was down to 1.

The Possible Explanation of Unusually Low Rates of Flu Infection

Woman Sneezing from Flu — Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Indeed there was a stark difference in the statistics of last year’s flu season and its predecessor. And when we take a closer look at what could possibly explain the unusually low rates of infection and deaths due to the flu virus, the explanation is quite simple. Between October 2020 and July 2021, COVID-19 infections were increasing tremendously throughout the world, including the U.S. Through the immunization started in December 2020, there were restrictions in place regarding indoor social gatherings, school and workplace reopenings, and reduced travel.

Hence, most people preferred to stay at home, practiced frequent hand washing, and maintained social distance. And while all these factors contribute to reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, these measures also helped curtail the spread of the influenza virus. In addition, since there was a fear of a twindemic that might possibly result during the flu season, most people preferred to get the flu vaccine in time. In the U.S. only, a record number of 193.8 million doses of influenza vaccine were distributed and administered prior to and during the flu season.

And while we know the reason why the flu season went expectedly smoothly last year, the critical question still remains about what to expect in this upcoming flu year? With a previous year of very limited cases and deaths associated with influenza, can we expect the same for the upcoming flu season? Do we still have a fear of COVID-19? Are people still wearing masks? How does COVID-19 immunization have a possible impact on the number of flu cases and associated deaths?

Let’s look at each of the questions and find out more about what to expect in the upcoming flu season.

What to Expect in the Upcoming Flu Season 2021-2022?

Items on table for people who are sick, flu — Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

The flu season is around the corner, and with relaxation in travel restrictions, social distancing, and masking, healthcare professionals worldwide are concerned about the upcoming flu season.

A Flu Season with No Social Distancing and Masks

The unexpected but pleasantly surprising drop in influenza cases during the COVID-19 pandemic last year proved that many of the social-distancing restrictions were effective. Moreover, wearing a mask, frequent hand washing, and school and workplace closures also contributed to controlling the spread of the influenza virus. And while COVID-19 continued to spread despite these measures, they proved to be exceptionally beneficial in controlling the flu virus.

But now that the world is opening up again, travel restrictions have been relaxed, and children are going back to school, there will likely be a surge in the cases of flu. Additionally, we can expect a higher need for hospitalization due to the influenza virus and more deaths this year.

This virus affects around 9% of the global population and between 3% and 11% of the U.S. population each year. Moreover, more than 40% of individuals over the age of 6 months in the U.S. receive flu vaccine coverage on a yearly basis. So while we can expect a better flu season in the US, it is also likely to be the case for the rest of the world.

For this year’s flu season, the CDC recommended using face masks for all faculty, students, and staff in K-12 schools; however, several states have banned mask mandates given that an increasing number of people have already received COVID-19 immunization in these states.

According to epidemiologist Benjamin Cowling, from the University of Hong Kong School of Public Health, it is still best to wear a mask to protect yourself and others, especially when visiting crowded areas or public facilities like transportation hubs and vehicles. He also mentioned that immuno-compromised individuals must get the flu vaccine along with wearing a mask during the flu season.

Why Should You Get a Flu Vaccine Even When You Have Already Received COVID-19 Vaccination?

Woma getting flu shot — Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Influenza and COVID-19 are both viral respiratory infections that are contagious and can also be life-threatening. The SARS-CoV-1 that causes COVID-19 is a lot more contagious than the flu virus, and hence, you need to take appropriate measures and immunization to control the spread of COVID-19. However, the COVID-19 vaccine is designed to develop immunity against the virus that causes the COVID-19 disease, so a separate vaccine specially developed to enhance your immunity against the influenza virus is also needed.

More specifically, Influenza is a common but potentially dangerous respiratory disease that can lead to hospitalization and may even cause death. Every flu season is different though and the flu virus affects different people differently. Regardless of how it impacts you, the flu affects millions of people worldwide with hundreds and thousands of people who may need hospitalization and some may die.

The annual flu vaccine offers protection against flu and flu-related complications. This vaccine can help avoid the complication of the flu which include ear infections, bacterial pneumonia, and worsening of chronic health conditions including asthma, diabetes, and heart diseases. Hence it serves an entirely different purpose than the COVID-19 vaccine. Therefore you need to get your annual flu vaccine this year even if you are already vaccinated for COVID-19.

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine has NO implications against your risk of getting the flu this season!

Final Words

Man washing his hands in a sink — Keeping your hands clean with soap or sanitizer is a great way to avoid getting and spreading the COVID and flu viruses, but getting a flu shot is the best means to keep safe!

Healthcare professionals have several concerns over the upcoming flu season. While there was a surprisingly low number of cases and deaths due to flu last year, this year’s flu season is going to be different. With relaxed travel restrictions, reopening of facilities including workplaces, malls, and schools, and reluctance to wear a mask for many in everyday situations, we can expect a surge in flu cases and associated deaths this year.

But you can change this prediction by getting your annual flu vaccine and taking measures such as wearing a mask and frequent hand washing. Let’s hope for a safer world and a much better flu season this year!

What Are Antibodies?

Antibodies attacking contagious virus cells and pathogens as a 3D illustration. — Antibodies have a Y shape. This is a 3D concept of antibodies attacking virus cells and pathogens. Bigstock

Antibodies, (AKA Immunoglobulins) are the body’s natural defenders to protect you from infections. They are produced by your immune system to continuously look for foreign entities, called antigens, such as bacteria and viruses, and other dangerous invaders. If a foreign entity is found, antibodies are the first line of defense that aid in the destruction of these unwanted entities.

How Do Antibodies Operate in Your Immune System?

In the absence of an infection, antibodies are on standby. They are kept dormant by two kinds of cells: T cells and B cells. Once a foreign invader is located, the T cells awake and open the gate for the antibodies to move out and take on the task of removing these cells that infected your body.

B cells are white blood cells that respond to foreign invaders by producing antibodies. The exact proportion of B cells and T cells depend on the cellular-level balance that’s developed in the body over the course of your lifetime. However, it’s generally accepted that the immune system does its best to make every effort to help eliminate these foreigners from your system.

So the B cells keep the existing antibodies in check and the T cells are ready to produce more of them should an invader penetrate your body.

How You Can Help Antibodies Fight Infections

Vegetables — Eating healthy foods is one of the best ways to maintain the antibodies in your system.

One of the best recommendations to boost your immunity are to keep up a healthy diet.

Some antibiotics will kill germs, but in most cases, you can outsmart the invading bacteria by not giving them a chance in the first place. Stay up to date on the best foods to eat that help you maintain a good amount of antibodies, not to mention help fight off free radicals as well!

What Is an Immune Deficiency?

Baby in incubater — Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

An immune deficiency is when your body is not producing enough antibodies or simply no longer has the ability to make them.

In extreme cases, these deficiencies are life-threatening. It may cause inflammation of the joints, blindness, chronic fatigue, pneumonia, increased risk of infection, or skin rashes. In milder cases, it may cause a cold, sore throat, fatigue, or skin rashes, among others.

Influenza and Rotavirus infections are common causes of immune deficiency. Most cases of the common cold, where influenza viruses are contained, can also be caused by an immune deficiency.

Why the Immune System Needs Help

When someone is sick, the immune system becomes overloaded. For example, someone who has the flu or a stomach virus will start producing a very large amount of antibodies to fight the virus, but the antibodies can be tricked into thinking that healthy cells are invaders.

For example, for people who have an autoimmune disease, such as diabetes, the antibodies will think that healthy cells around the pancreas are foreign and subsequently attack them by releasing proteins called autoantibodies. Autoimmune diseases can take many forms, such as multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Lupis, and diabetes previously mentioned, as well as many more.

What Happens When You Have a Strong Immune System?

Having an adequate supply of antibodies has been proven to be very useful in combating various infections. Studies have found that people who lack antibodies are at higher risk of various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, allergies, and other infections. It has also been found that people who have a strong immune system are more likely to live longer, have lower cholesterol, and be less likely to develop diabetes. However, it is important to note that you do not have to have antibodies to boost immunity. However, the more antibodies you have, the better off you are in fighting infection.

The human body produces antibodies to fight infection or foreign invaders. Antibodies help your body fight off bacterial or viral infections and when injected with a vaccine, it increases the production of the antibodies, enough supply to confront a possible infection and keep it at bay.

Enter the COVID-19 Vaccine

Illustration of covid virus next to vaccine bottles — Photo by freepic.com/pikisuperstar
https://www.freepik.com/pikisuperstar

The COVID-19 vaccine has proven to be the ultimate killer of the coronavirus. In simple terms, it builds more antibodies in your body, in the form of T-cells that await the oncoming virus should you get infected. The result – you have enough antibody cells that will fight off the disease!

COVID-19 Vaccine for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women – What You Need to Know

Doctor Examining Woman Before Giving Child Birth — Doctor examining woman before giving childbirth in a maternity hospital

The COVID-19 vaccine rollout started in December 2020, but there have been reservations about the immunization of pregnant and breastfeeding women since then; however recently, the CDC has shared evidence that supports the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccination for women who fall into these categories. Here, we share some insight into what you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

The COVID-19 Immunization for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

The overall risk of severe illness due to COVID-19 is low for healthy individuals as well as those who have been vaccinated. However, pregnant women have a much higher risk of contracting a more severe illness compared to women who are not pregnant and may include the need for hospitalization and intensive care. Additionally, it may also mean that you may need a ventilator or special equipment to breathe, and there is a significantly higher risk of death.

Furthermore, pregnant women with the COVID-19 virus also have an increased risk of preterm birth as well as other pregnancy-related complications compared with pregnant women who do not have the disease.

Immunization is critical for breastfeeding mothers, as there is evidence that mothers can pass on the antibodies to their children through breast milk. However, the data is limited to women who have received the mRNA (trains cells how to make a protein that triggers an immune response). vaccine only.

FAQs About COVID-19 Vaccine for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

Baby being held by woman Let’s look at some of the FAQs related to the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

1. Should Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women Receive the Covid-19 Vaccine?

Woman breastfeeding — Photo by Dave Clubb on Unsplash

The CDC strongly recommends the immunization of pregnant and breastfeeding women. Since pregnant women are considered a high-risk group that can contract severe COVID-19 illness, it is best for them to receive immunization. The recommendation for immunization is valid for both pregnant and breastfeeding women as well as for women who are planning to get pregnant soon and are actively trying to conceive.

2. Is the Vaccine Available for Pregnant Women?

The vaccines are available for both pregnant and lactating women. As of May 2020, only 16% of the pregnant women in the U.S. received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The number has risen up to 23% by August 2021. Moreover, more than 200,000 pregnant women have received an initial dose of the mRNA vaccine without experiencing any major side effects or specific safety concerns.

3. Is the Vaccine Safe for Lactating Mothers?

Based on the available data, the COVID-19 vaccine is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. While there is limited research, one thing is for sure that the mRNA vaccines do not contain live viruses. Hence, being vaccinated with an mRNA vaccine does not pose a risk to the baby.

In addition, there is evidence that breastfeeding women who have received mRNA vaccines can pass on the antibodies to their young ones through breast milk. Hence, COVID-19 is not only safe for mothers and protects them against the virus but is also effective in keeping breastfeeding kids safe and healthy.

However, this is only the case with the mRNA vaccine. There is limited evidence on how other formulas for the COVID-19 vaccine may affect the lactating child.

4. Does COVID-19 Vaccine Affect Fertility?

One of the critical concerns for women who are planning to get pregnant in the near future or are actively trying to conceive is how the vaccine will affect their fertility. Given the data we have so far, there is no evidence of COVID-19 immunization affecting your fertility. Hence, according to the latest research, if you are planning to get pregnant or are trying to conceive, there are no reasons to delay your pregnancy due to COVID-19 immunization.

5. How Immunization Affects Pregnant Woman’s Immune System?

The vaccine is designed to activate the immune system response so the body can fight a viral infection. The immunization’s mode of action works exactly the same as for a person who is not pregnant.

6. Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Increase the Risk of Miscarriage?

A relatively recent study indicates that there is no change in the risk of miscarriage during the first trimester among women who received the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. However, more research is still required to determine how the COVID-19 vaccine can change the risk of miscarriage for pregnant women.

7. Can I Get COVID-19 Following the Immunization?

You may experience mild, temporary side effects following the immunization. However, you can still get the infection following the immunization but you are less likely to get a severe illness, and there is likely to be a lesser need for hospitalization. There have been exceptions about the severity, although rare, so you may want to speak with your medical professional prior to getting vaccinated.

COVID-19 Vaccine Safety and Effectiveness for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

So far, there is limited evidence about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, the data is growing. Given the CDC’s data so far, the benefits of COVID-19 immunization outweigh all potential risks associated with vaccination during pregnancy and lactation.

According to the first data released by the CDC regarding the safety of receiving an mRNA vaccine during pregnancy, there is no increased risk of miscarriage among pregnant women who received an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S. Moreover, a recent study from Israel compared pregnant people who were immunized through an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine with those who did not. The data showed that the vaccination lowers the risk of severe infection from the COVID-19 virus.

Furthermore, there is evidence that the antibodies produced in a pregnant mother’s body after getting an mRNA vaccine were also found in umbilical cord blood, which may protect the fetus against the virus.

The trials on finding the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers as well as those who are planning to get pregnant are still underway. The next few months are critical as they will help researchers assess the data and find out more about the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Since we have been exposed to this virus for close to two years now, more definitive results have been determined, but many are still fully inconclusive. With that said, it is best to follow the studies that are homogeneous and not those that contradict each other. Additionally and perhaps most important, consult with your physician on the best route to follow based upon your particular metabolism and health.

COVID-19 Immunity – How Long Does It Last Following the Infection and Immunization?

Immunization Overview

The human immune system is a complicated network of cells and proteins that defends the body against foreign invaders, including viruses and bacteria. In this post, we look at how the immune system responds to the COVID-19 virus.

Since this disease is relatively new, there is a lot that we still need to learn about and several questions remain regarding the immunity to the virus, both following the infection and immunization and so the research continues. One factor that is accepted throughout the world is that those who have strong immune systems fare better than those that are immune-compromised and/or are part of the elderly community.

It is important to note that natural immunity refers to how your natural immune system responds following the infection, whereas vaccine-induced immunity is the process by which a COVID injection stimulates your immune system to produce more antibodies – enough to prepare your body to resist the virus should you get infected.

Here, we look at how the immune system works against COVID-19 and how the immune system responds following the infection and vaccination.

How Long Does COVID-19 Immunity Last Following the Infection?

Man unsure about taking the vaccine — Bigstock

This is a very good question and there has not been a definitive answer; however, researchers believe it could be anywhere from between three to eight months.

The claim is based on several pieces of research performed to analyze the antibodies in individuals who were infected by the virus. However, the results of these studies vary significantly as the life of antibodies targeting the spike of SARS-CoV-2 varies from individual to individual. Moreover, other factors besides antibodies, such as T and B cell memory, affect the natural immunity against COVID-19.

As of now, they suggest booster shots after six months of being vaccinated. Since COVID-19 is a relatively new disease, researchers worldwide are continuing their quest to find out how long the body defends itself against the disease.

It cannot be definitively concluded how COVID-19 immunity lasts following the infection, but let’s look at each of the components that can affect the natural immunity against COVID-19.

Antibodies – How Long Do They Stay in the Body?

As mentioned, the search and destroy army of antibodies can last for several months in patients infected with COVID-19. However, the number of antibodies tends to decrease over time. One of the studies that included 5882 people who had recovered from this pathogen concluded that the antibodies were still present in the blood five to seven months following the infection. The results hold true for patients with both mild and severe illnesses. Moreover, there was evidence that people with severe COVID-19 illness ended up with more antibodies compared to those with a mild infection.

T and B Cell Response – An Integral Part of Immunity

COVID Virus — Photo by Fusion Medical Animation on Unsplash

While the antibodies developed as a response to the infection and play an important role in protecting against future infection, T and B cells also have a central role in fighting off infections. The T and B cells are the only cells in the immune system that can recognize and respond specifically to a virus as they are memory cells. These highly specialized memory cells can stay in your system for years and even decades and continue to trigger the immune system response when your body interacts with the same virus.

One study conducted by science.org was to find out the presence of T and B cells in individuals who have had COVID-19. T and B cells are cells that remember the previous diseases and act on them if they return. The results concluded that even when the antibodies fell, memory T and B cells were present for as long as up to eight months following the infection. However, the only limitation of this study and other similar studies is that we have limited evidence since COVID-19 is a relatively new disease. Given this lack of definitive conclusions, we cannot, at this time, be sure about how long the T and B memory cells stay in the body once exposed to SARS-CoV-2.

Vaccine-Induced Immunity – Immunity Developed Following the COVID-19 Immunization

And while the researchers assess the natural immunity against COVID-19, it is critical to assess the vaccine-induced immunity to determine the effectiveness of COVID-19 immunization and the need for a booster for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Several studies worldwide are being conducted to determine how long immunity lasts following COVID-19 immunization. A relatively new study found a surprisingly higher number of B cells (memory cells) among individuals immunized using Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine. The participants received their second dose of the mRNA vaccine at least 12 weeks before assessing their immunity. The participants included people who were not previously infected by COVID-19.

So far, the research conducted to determine vaccine-induced immunity suggests that the mRNA vaccine is likely to generate a durable and lasting immune system response; however, further evidence is required to confirm the claim.

How Vaccine-Induced Immunity Varies Between the First and the Second Doses?

Person getting covid injection — Photo by FRANK MERIÑO from Pexels

Given how the immune system responds after one dose of the vaccine as opposed to two is difficult to assess. However, multiple studies have investigated that the antibody level in the blood varies at different stages between the two doses.

A study involving over 50,000 participants concluded that 96.4% of the participants had positive antibodies one month following their first dose of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines. Additionally, 99.1% of the participants had positive antibodies seven and 14 days following their second dose of the vaccine. Furthermore, the antibody levels changed slightly up to two weeks following the second dose. Other similar studies were also conducted, and the results showed that the vaccine-induced immunity varies between the first and the second doses of the mRNA vaccine.

Comparing Natural Immunity with Vaccine-Induced Immunity

The exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and resulting infection and COVID-19 immunization (with mRNA vaccine) have shown an immune system response generated by memory T and B cells and the creation of antibodies. However, there is a stark difference in how the immune system responds to natural infection and to the vaccine.

The immune system’s response to the COVID-19 vaccine is fairly homogeneous, and data suggest that the mRNA vaccine results in T and B cell reactivity. However, how long does immunity last among individuals following infection, and how strong of immune system response is generated following the infection is still not definitive?

Will COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Be a Necessity?

Given how the antibodies and the T and B memory cells behave following immunization, a key question that still remains is whether COVID-19 vaccine boosters are a necessity? The answer is still not clear; however, Albert Bourla, the CEO of Pfizer, explains the need for a booster vaccine within 12 months following the second dose.

The reasons include weaker immune system response over time, especially among older adults. Moreover, the SARS-CoV-2 is mutating, and new variants are emerging, which could be a possible threat to individuals, especially the ones with weakened immunity; hence, on September 22, 2021, the FDA amended their emergency vaccine procedure to include booster shots for specific criteria of people – those age 65 and over, are immune-compromised and/or work in healthcare facilities.

Summary

In general, there are three ways we can have our immune system fight off the COVID virus, through natural immunity, the vaccine’s creation of antibodies, and T and B memory cells that will recognize and attack the virus if it comes back. But research is still going on to determine how long the vaccine and antibodies remain in the body, but after the first, second, and third doses.

So far, it appears that after the first and second doses of Pfizer or Modena, the antibodies can last for good six-twelve months, but diminish as the months proceed. Booster shots are recommended for individuals with weaker immune systems after around six months.

7 Amazing Ways Drinking Earl Grey Tea Can Change Your Life!

If you’re a Star Trek enthusiast, you know that Captain Picard’s favorite tea is earl grey! But why? Is it because of its health benefits or because it helped him think clearer, or perhaps he simply liked the taste! Jean-Luc Picard never made hasty decisions, so let’s take a look and see why he always ‘Made is so’ for earl grey tea!

Earl Grey Overview

Earl Grey Tea wit tea bag — Photo by Miska Sage on Unsplash

Earl Grey tea comes from a plant called Camellia sinensis, which is grown mostly in Aisa, specifically in the countries of China, India, Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Japan. The plant’s leaves are naturally green, but through a process called oxidation, which is the state at which atoms lose electrons, the leaves turn color from green to black and it is from these blackish leaves that Earl Grey tea is made. The tea has a powerful taste that is much stronger than other black teas and with that said, let’s look at what the benefits are when drinking Earl Grey.

- - It is believed to help relieve stress and anxiety.
  - It’s been shown to have positive effects on the respiratory system.
  - It’s been shown to have health benefits for those suffering from cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
  - It contains less caffeine than other types of tea due to its lower level of oxidation.
  - It’s said to have a positive effect on mental alertness and cognitive function – No doubt every starship captain would need that!

Stress and Anxiety

Most teas in general have been proven to reduce stress and that includes earl grey. In one study, people who drank this tea were found to experience less stress, compared to a group who didn’t drink it. Earl Grey tea contains some caffeine, but compared to other coffees or energy drinks, it has a lower caffeine content and a lower level of oxidation.

This means it can help keep your heart rate and blood pressure lower, leading to better overall health and less stress. And it doesn’t have that harsh taste that many black teas have. Earl Grey is traditionally a gentle, floral black tea that can soothe even the worst stress. Earl Grey can also improve your immune system by boosting your immunity and prevent allergies.

Respiratory System

The tea is an excellent choice for people who suffer from asthma, COPD, and bronchitis. Many people feel better after drinking a cup or two to three cups a day. A study conducted by researchers from McMaster University found that people who drank Earl Grey tea every day for three months had a lower risk of coronary heart disease and strokes than those who drank decaffeinated Earl Grey tea. It was also shown that this regular consumption of Earl Grey tea was associated with a lessened risk of mortality from all causes during the study period.

It has been found that this tea contains a significant amount of antioxidant properties that reduce the risk of cancer.

Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes

According to research published in The Journal of Nutrition, Earl Grey tea has a positive impact on people who have cardiovascular disease and diabetes and has even been shown to reduce their blood sugar levels. The tea has a low level of antioxidant activity, so many of the antioxidants contained in the tea are actually helping these people fight against heart disease and diabetes. More than any other type of tea, Earl Grey contains chlorogenic acid, which is thought to help with cardiovascular disease. It’s actually also shown to have a protective effect on the heart, as well as lower blood pressure.

Caffeine Content

If you don’t need the caffeine, Earl Grey can be enjoyed in a non-caffeinated version and this can provide a greater health benefit. It’s no wonder the beverage has become an iconic drink, and many a trendsetter has picked up on this delicious new health trend. While you should always be wary of overdoing any supplement or food, when drinking Earl Grey, the tea’s benefits are unquestionable. The key is to drink it in moderation and if you don’t need the caffeine, you can even try drinking a non-caffeinated version and reap all its health benefits. And if you’re a tea fan who’s been trying to add Earl Grey tea to your diet, and it doesn’t seem to be happening…well this is an easy solution.

Mental Alertness and Cognitive Function

Earl Grey tea helps improve cognitive function and may improve your attention span. Researchers say that drinking the tea before performing mentally challenging tasks can help increase focus. It also improves verbal skills, helping the user be more expressive. Additionally, it may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. This may be due to the sedative effects of the tea. It has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol and amylase, which can increase the risk of the Alzheimer’s illness. The black tea associated with Earl Grey is also known for its benefits to the heart and has been shown to help prevent heart disease.

How To Make Earl Grey Tea?

Before you drink this tea, warm it up first. Then, put it in the microwave for 20 seconds. Pour hot water in a cup and then steep your tea for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and then enjoy!

Conclusion

Because Earl Grey is not only a classic black tea, but a herbal tea that can be used to make delicious tea blends, and it’s a great source of antioxidants and if you become caption of a starship, you won’t want to do without it!

The Health Benefits of Hibiscus Antioxidant Tea

Hisbicus Tea — Photo by The Pop’d Shop on Unsplash

Hibiscus drinks are popular in many countries around the world. They are often served as a refreshing drink after meals, or as an accompaniment to tea or coffee.

Hibiscus is also becoming increasingly popular for its antioxidant properties. Recent studies have shown that hibiscus tea contains polyphenols and anthocyanins which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, making it an ideal drink for health-conscious individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

What is Hibiscus?

Hibiscus Antioxidant Flower — Photo by Robert Thiemann on Unsplash

Hibiscus is a flowering plant that originates from the tropics. It belongs to the genus Hibiscus, which is botanically known as Casu Marzu and translates into ‘mad cow’. Hibiscus, known for its large flowers, is also known as ‘marigold’ in Latin and ‘red blooms’ in Hindi and Gujarati.

In countries like India, South Africa, and Malaysia, hibiscus is commonly known as bhang, and other similar names like ‘baby liquor’, ‘poisonous devil fruit’, and ‘poisoned rose’. The flower is mainly cultivated in Indian states like Goa, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. The plant is a much-reputed spice throughout India. Some of the most popular varieties include Marich, Amrut, Khwaja Siras, Khwaja Zulqarnain and Marri Bada. Hibiscus leaves and flowers are dried in the shade to preserve their freshness.

Antioxidant Properties of Hibiscus

Oxidative Stress Illustration — Oxidative stress. From Normal cells to Oxidative stress and aggressive free radicals, cell death.

Hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants that are known to reduce inflammation and free radicals. So what are antioxidants and how do they benefit you?

Antioxidants are molecules that help stop damage to cells, DNA, and other molecules. Oxidative stress is considered to be the most important driver of aging.

It is the reason that aging accelerates and causes many diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Free radicals are molecules that cause oxidative stress and contribute to chronic inflammation and oxidative damage. Antioxidants fight free radicals and may also stimulate the growth and development of stem cells.

Health Benefits of Hibiscus

1. The juice from this flower can prevent cancer.
2. Hibiscus can help people with asthma to control their symptoms.
3. Cuts the risk of high blood pressure. Research has revealed that people who drink hibiscus tea regularly, experience a significant reduction in blood pressure.
4. Promotes weight loss. Research has shown that drinking hibiscus tea can help you lose weight as its main ingredients – green tea, boronic acid, and hibiscus – can increase your metabolism, and make you feel full.
5. Helps digestion. Hibiscus tea can act as a laxative for people with digestive issues like bloating and heartburn.

How to Brew a Cup of Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is made by infusing a finely divided hibiscus flower or herb in boiling water. Rinse the hibiscus leaves or flowers and remove the petals to get a finely divided flower. Chop the leaves, flowers, and stem into small pieces and soak in water for half an hour. Grate or peel the leaves and infuse the infused water for 15 minutes. Add a few drops of honey to the tea and serve with honey and raisins.

Conclusion

Hibiscus does not have any artificial preservatives or flavorings, and it’s free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and lactose, so it’s a great choice for anyone with food allergies.

How to Drink a Cup of Tea and Live Longer

Tea poured into cup If only we Americans would take after the British when they say “Care for a spot of tea?”. No doubt they’re on to something because most teas contain a wide variety of healthy nutrients.

You just can’t go wrong with tea for weight loss, better sleep, more antioxidants for your body and brain, and a host of other advantages.

How Tea Helps with Weight Management

It’s been said that drinking tea can help to control blood sugar levels. In contrast, eating is often necessary in order to regulate blood sugar levels. Also, drinking tea lowers the caloric intake for each cup of tea consumed. It’s very important to drink a hot cup of tea for at least 15 minutes before going to bed so that it’s prepared and ready to consume. It helps to relax the body and will help to keep you away from eating foods that will lower your metabolism.

What are the best teas to drink for weight loss? One of the best beverages for weight loss is dark teas. Dark teas tend to contain less caffeine than fruit teas and there are an array of different varieties that you can drink. Among the most popular dark tea varieties include oolong, black, green, and white teas.

Why Tea is Good for Your Sleep

Woman sleeping with alarm clock showing 7:00 AM There is much evidence to suggest that drinking certain specific teas can help you sleep better. According to Professor John Britton at University College London:

“There is substantial evidence from studies with animals and humans that tea consumption prevents or moderates the decline in sleep onset latency over time, which is usually associated with age.”

But when it comes to tea, there are some subtle qualities that can make a big difference. One of the favorites amount researchers is Chamomile. It is a well-known herb that has been used for centuries to help reduce inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia. In fact, many people regard chamomile as a mild tranquilizer.

The Benefits of Antioxidants in Tea

Antioxidants are nature’s way of keeping cells and tissues intact. They stop our body’s toxic proteins from forming harmful compounds in the blood and damage our cells. Tea has the highest concentration of antioxidants of any beverage. You can make this popular drink even more antioxidant-rich by brewing it in a teabag that’s also loaded with antioxidants.

For example, a green tea bag has the equivalent amount of antioxidants to a cup of spinach. Research shows that when you drink green tea daily, it may have a measurable impact on your metabolism. The reason for this is that the tea leaves’ vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, promotes a faster metabolism.

Although green and black teas may have high levels of antioxidants, according to an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) analysis – a research laboratory that measures a food’s antioxidant activity, the tea with the most antioxidants is flor de Jamaica. The Spanish name for hibiscus. When brewed, this tea has 400% more antioxidants than black and green tea.

Note: Although hibiscus tea is abundant in antioxidants if you take medication for blood pressure or blood sugar, you might want to defer to your medical practitioner first as taking meds and drinking hibiscus tea can lower your blood pressure and/or blood sugar.

Stress Management

Woman showing signs of headach or stress — Graphicstock

No one wants to deal with stress and we’ve posted numerous articles on how one can deal with anxiety, as well as depression, but when it comes to teas, here are a few that can help you calm down in addition to our blog suggestions: mint teas, chamomile teas, lavender teas, rose teas, and matcha. Give them a try. What do you have to lose?

The Best Teas for Your Overall Health

While, of course, there are many different types of teas, We’ve narrowed it down to three particular types for your good health. They are regular, decaffeinated black and green tea.

All Three Offer the Following Benefits

1. Tea for weight loss. We all know it’s important to eat healthful food. The antioxidants in green tea can help you avoid the signs of aging, as well as fight bacteria.

2. Tea for better sleep. Green tea contains a large amount of caffeine, so we won’t recommend it in this category but Chamomile, Valerian Root, and Lavender are highly recommended. There is also calorie and caffeine-free peppermint tea.

3. Tea for better stress management. There are numerous teas that may keep you calmer. Mint chamomile, lavender, and hibiscus teas to name a few, but we are not suggesting to drop your whole anti-anxiety routine (whatever plan you are on). We are, however, proposing that these teas may be that one added factor that could very well change your stress level.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a list of numerous awesome tea benefits to help you make your tea drinking a habit. Talk to you soon with my next post on The Top 10 Reasons To Drink Tea Every Day.

Note: As previously mentioned, if you are on any medications, please speak to your doctor or medical provider regarding drinking these teas.

Does COVID-19 Affect Fertility in Men?

Ilustration of male sperm to egg — Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Did you know that every time the body fights a virus, it can temporarily affect the male sperm count? Currently, it has been close to two years since the world got to know about the covid virus, but researchers are still trying to determine how the coronavirus is affecting everyone.

While it was initially thought to be affecting only the respiratory system, we know today that the virus can affect almost every part of our body, including the reproductive system.

With the emergence of new strains, such as the Delta variant we are currently being exposed to, researchers are learning more each day concerning how it affects different parts of our bodies and one of these studies is about how it affects the health of the male sperm.

In this post, we take a closer look at this particular issue. So let’s get started.

The Possible Effect of COVID-19 on Male Sperm

As with many studies of covid consequences, researchers are still collecting evidence to support this claim. COVID-19 is a viral infection, and every time a body fights a virus, it temporarily affects the sperm count. However, how long COVID-19 affects male fertility is still being studied.

In a small study of about 190 men, researchers collected the semen sample to assess the quality of sperm health. The semen was analyzed based on three criteria.

- - The amount of sperm released at each ejaculation
  - The shape and size of the sperm
  - The ability of sperm to move through the female reproductive tract

In this comparative study, researchers collected semen from 84 fertile men who were diagnosed with COVID-19, along with 105 fertile men who were not exposed to the virus. The semen was collected once every ten days over a period of 30 days. The results indicated that the infection affected sperm health on all three criteria, including sperm concentration, shape and size, and the ability to move through the female body.

However, the effects tend to improve over time, but the time it takes for sperm to regain health depends upon the severity of the infection and the treatment provided at the time of infection.

Pandemic Stress May Be the Culprit

While there is limited evidence of how COVID-19 affects male fertility and sperm health, there is evidence that men who have frequent anxiety are more likely to have poor sperm health. These men have a less concentration of semen during ejaculation. Additionally, their sperms are more likely to be distorted or impaired, which affects their motility to travel inside the female body and subsequently, reduces the likelihood of fertilization.

When a person is anxious, the body releases a hormone to respond known as glucocorticoids. It is a steroid that affects the concentration of sperm by altering the levels of testosterone in the male body. Another possible effect is oxidative stress resulting from an unhealthy lifestyle, consumption of processed foods, and exposure to free radicals due to environmental pollution.

Amidst the pandemic and the associated uncertainty, more people have been known to be apprehensive. While some people get nervous in their job environment, others experience the stress of managing work from home. Yet, some men are concerned about the possible effects of immunization. Moreover, there is additional stress due to limited social interaction as well as maintaining social distance and the uncertainty associated with the pandemic.

Given that anxiety negatively affects sperm health, it goes without saying that pandemics can be an addition that also negatively affects sperm health among men.

Things to Do in Times of Uncertainty

There is limited evidence of how COVID-19 might impact male fertility; however, the effect of stress on sperm is well-documented. Moreover, several other factors may affect the quality of sperm and hence the fertility of men. Hence, it is critical to take care of the following factors in this time of pandemic and uncertainty.

Manage Stress

One of the most important things to do in pandemic and associated uncertainty is managing stress. Here are some of the practical ways you can use to manage stress.

- - Take frequent breaks from watching news related to pandemics, including the ones you scroll through social media.
  - Give your body time to unwind every day, even when you are working at home,
  - Connect with friends and family while taking care of all the necessary precautions to control the spread of COVID-19.
  - Try to make out time for incorporating hobbies and activities of your choice.
  - Practice meditation.

Consume a Balanced/Healthy Diet

And while you practice ways to manage stress, don’t forget the role of consuming a balanced diet.

Ensure your diet contains all the essential food groups, including proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins. It is particularly important to include vitamins A, B, C, and E in your diet as they give a boost to your immunity, but also add in minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium so you can maintain a healthy body.

Another essential component of your diet should be anti-inflammatory foods. Since inflammation and oxidative stress can have a negative impact on sperm quality, make sure your foods are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the anti-inflammatory foods you can include in your diet are olives, olive oil, tomatoes, fatty fish, berries, and nuts.

Keep Moving

According to research, there is a positive correlation between physical exercise and sperm quality measured using three criteria.

- The amount of sperm released at each ejaculation,
- The shape and size of the sperm, and
- The ability of sperm to move through the female reproductive tract.

The results claim that men who maintain a healthy lifestyle that incorporates physical activity have better sperm quality than those who do not work out. This most likely is even more significant for seniors.

And while being physically active is important, it is critical to avoid strenuous and high-intensity workouts. A moderate workout for 30 minutes on most days of the week will help you maintain your weight. Moreover, it will reduce your risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and will also keep your reproductive health in great shape.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Balance chart for Ketogenic Diet

Male obesity has been linked to poor sperm quality, and the link has been established through extensive research.

Additionally, male obesity is also linked to lower chances of pregnancy using in-vitro fertilization. Hence, you must maintain a healthy weight, which will positively affect your sperm health and, eventually, your fertility.

Bottom Line

COVID-19 is in many aspects still a mystery for mankind. Researchers and scientists around the world are trying to understand how the disease impacts the human body. While there is limited evidence that COVID-19 can reduce male fertility, there is a strong correlation between stress and sperm health. By incorporating stress management techniques, eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight through physical exercise, you can maintain good overall health as well as enjoy a positive effect on the health of your sperm.

Can COVID-19 Lead to a Neurological Condition?

The year 2020 was indeed a unique experience for us all. A worldwide pandemic ended up disrupting life to the core.

Given the nature of the coronavirus and the way it spreads, its effects on our health are incomprehensible for medical professionals. Hence, scientists and researchers are trying to learn more about COVID-19 and how it affects humans physically, mentally, and emotionally. Every day, they are finding out something new about the virus.

Perhaps, the most pressing area of concern for researchers is COVID-19 long haulers. These are individuals who are dealing with the lingering effects of the disease. For some, the virus has permanently damaged the lungs but others have experienced an altered sweat smell, unexplained cognitive decline, and unexplained psychological effects. Additionally, some individuals have experienced rare neurological conditions. This post is about one such rare neurological condition that has a potential connection with COVID-19 and is known as Transverse Myelitis (TM).

As of now, three cases of transverse myelitis have been reported. While the number of the sample is still too small to prove a solid connection between TM and COVID-19, there is the possibility that the rare neurological condition may be related to the virus. Researchers are delving into the evidence and finding out this connection is an insight into what they have discovered so far.

What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse myelitis is a rare neurological condition that is a result of inflammation in the spinal cord. The inflammation leads to damage to your myelin which is the fatty substance that covers your neurons. Myelin typically works as an insulator around the neurons so the neural message to and from the brain doesn’t get lost along the way.

Loss of myelin causes the scarring of your spinal cord that blocks neural messages and leads to physical problems. And while the myelin has a natural ability to repair and regenerate, once the inflammation damages it, the condition is often irreversible.

This rare condition affects around 1-8 people per million every year. Moreover, the condition is more common in children between the ages of 10 and 19. However, it can affect people of all ages.

While the exact cause of transverse myelitis is not known, certain health conditions may lead to this disease.

- - Lyme disease
  - Viral and bacterial infections
  - Measles
  - Syphilis

Some individuals may also develop neurological conditions due to spinal injuries or defects in the structure of the spine. Atherosclerosis or other vascular diseases which reduce the oxygen supply to the spinal cord may be among the potential reasons for transverse myelitis.

Moreover, TM can be among the warning signs of other neurological or autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and lupus.

The Possible Connection Between Transverse Myelitis and COVID-19

:Illustration of a bioligical connection — Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Since viral infections can trigger the condition, there is a close link between COVID-19 and transverse myelitis. There is an established connection between certain strains of COVID-19 that have long-term neurological consequences. So far, there is evidence of three individuals who reported to have developed the condition following the COVID-19 infection.

The viral infection triggers the possible inflammatory complication that affected the myelin leading to physical symptoms.

Identifying the Rare Neurological Condition

There are a few classic symptoms of this rare neurological condition. It can be distinguished from other conditions because it leads to one or more of the following symptoms.

- - Weakness in the muscles of arms and legs
  - Sensory alterations such as the feeling of burning, twitching, and numbness especially in the lower body
  - Bowel dysfunction
  - Pain in the lower back, that’s often associated with shooting pain that radiates in the arms and legs

It is also common for people with transverse myelitis to experience frequent muscle spasms that are often accompanied by headache, fever, loss of appetite, and an overall feeling of discomfort.

If you have recovered from coronavirus and are experiencing any or all of the symptoms highlighted above, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider. While it is common for people to experience weakness and body aches as they recover from the COVID-19 infection, if any of the above-mentioned symptoms persist, it could be a sign of something more serious.

Your healthcare provider will likely recommend certain tests to diagnose transverse myelitis. Your doctor may recommend the following.

- - Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  - Lumbar puncture (testing of spinal fluid)
  - Certain blood tests

Treating and Managing Life with Transverse Myelitis

As of now, there is no known cure. While some people may recover from the symptoms, others have to live with it. In some cases, where the individual is experiencing severe symptoms, the healthcare provider may recommend hospitalization. However, in other cases, a combination of pain-relieving medications, such as corticosteroid drugs, and physical therapy is used to manage pain.

Corticosteroid drugs intend to suppress the immune system activity while speeding up the recovery process. However, if the medicines do not seem to reduce the intensity of pain and other symptoms, your health care provider may recommend plasma exchange. The process helps remove harmful antibodies from the blood, which may contribute to improving the symptoms. Your healthcare provider may also recommend physical therapy depending upon the severity and type of your disease.

The long-term effects of transverse myelitis are not constant. However, they may vary from person to person. Around ⅓ of the individuals diagnosed with transverse myelitis recover to a great extent with almost all of their symptoms gone. Another ⅓ recover partially with some of their symptoms remaining persistent. Again, the intensity of pain and severity may vary from person to person. The last third of patients diagnosed with the disease recover poorly and continue to experience the symptoms which also can lead to physical disabilities. One of the possible concerns, especially for this group, is how the disease affects them mentally. Due to their physical immobility and persistent pain, such patients are more prone to developing psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Final Words

It has been over a year that the global COVID-19 pandemic has flipped our lives upside down. And as researchers are learning more about it and the new data emerges, there is growing evidence that there is a possible connection between COVID-19 and several neurological conditions, including transverse myelitis. Until there is more concrete evidence on how COVID-19 can lead to long-lasting physical and mental health conditions, it’s best to keep doing what infectious disease experts have been asking for months. Maintain social distance, wear a face mask, frequently wash or sanitize your hands, and get vaccinated!