Content notice: This article comprises mentions of drug use and drug overdose loss of life.Be sincere: How a lot pumpkin spice have you ever had since October began? It’s cool. I’m not judging.In truth, if you need extra, do you know about these pumpkin spice-scented face masks? Yes, like the sort you put on to assist shield your self and others from COVID-19 transmission. I figured I ought to make clear since we may be speaking concerning the skincare form of face masks, which additionally exist in pumpkin.Anyway, I hope you’re having fun with fall. I needed to start out with a light-weight intro, however as soon as once more we’re going to get a bit heavy. This challenge of The Download discusses the hazards of fentanyl as a result of overdoses are on the rise. But we’ve additionally obtained COVID content material, a fall operating roundup, and extra.There’s no different technique to say it. Last week, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) issued a Public Safety Alert for the primary time in 6 years. Deadly counterfeit prescription capsules containing fentanyl and meth have been seized in each U.S. state, with greater than 9.5 million capsules seized thus far this yr. Obviously, many extra are nonetheless circulating.Authorities have seen a pointy enhance within the availability and lethality of those capsules. They’re faux in that they appear like prescription Oxycontin, Percocet, Vicodin, Xanax, or Adderall, however they’ve very actual and lethal penalties. Laboratory testing confirms that many comprise greater than 2 milligrams of fentanyl, an quantity thought-about deadly.The DEA appeared on the three most populated counties in Southern California to give you the next stats. They provide you with an general image of the damaging fentanyl state of affairs.You may also take a look at this chart to see the sharp uptick in overdose deaths from artificial opioids, largely fentanyl, from about 2014 on for the entire U.S. In 2020, drug overdose deaths elevated almost 30 % when in comparison with 2019. We don’t have full knowledge but for 2021, however we’re seeing tendencies that might break the 2020 report.And they’re much more difficult throughout a pandemic. Lockdowns, isolation, nervousness, and despair can all worsen current substance use points and even enhance risks.But we’ve been experiencing an opioid disaster/epidemic/no matter you wish to name it for a very long time now, and it’s solely getting worse. I misplaced a buddy to heroin-fentanyl overdose a couple of years again. The lack of that one very treasured life is agonizing to consider. But there are a whole lot of hundreds of people who find themselves nonetheless in danger within the U.S. alone.The backside line is that we want higher harm-reduction packages to avoid wasting lives, quite than insurance policies that stigmatize folks. What do I imply by “hurt discount”? For instance, Rhode Island has the primary U.S.-based pilot program of locations the place folks can use medication underneath supervision (for security causes). At Greatist, we at all times wish to supply assets with none judgment. So right here they’re.What’s your child going to be for Halloween? Maybe an almost-vaxxed child! Pfizer and BioNTech have submitted knowledge to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from their COVID-19 vaccine trials in kids ages 5 to 11. The dose studied is 10 micrograms, a 3rd of that used for peeps 12 and up. The corporations have stated the scientific trial knowledge exhibits the dose is protected and produces a “sturdy” immune response.Up subsequent, the businesses say they plan to request emergency use authorization (EUA). The FDA has to evaluate the information, and then the advisory committee would meet to make a suggestion on the potential EUA. If the FDA grants the EUA, then the CDC convenes its vaccine committee to debate whether or not to suggest the vax.All that is to say that issues are in movement! And that’s thrilling for folks with school-age babes who aren’t but eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. Woot!Speaking of vaccines… YouTube is taking a stand in opposition to disinformation and blocking all anti-vax content material, with sure exceptions for scientific and historic discussions. The firm was already taking down disinformation about COVID-19 vaccines. But now it’s extending that coverage to killing anti-vax content material about any presently administered vaccines which can be authorised and deemed protected by the World Health Organization (WHO).FYI: In 2019, the WHO labeled vaccine hesitancy as a top-10 risk to international well being. We are seeing that risk play out in actual time amid a pandemic. Many people who find themselves eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine within the U.S. are nonetheless resisting the poke. Experts say misinformation is a number one reason behind that vaccine hesitancy.I’m guessing probs not. But I do wish to make a fast notice about West Nile virus. You is likely to be listening to a bit about it on the information since that is the season it typically will get some buzz.Experts say the nation’s general circumstances of an infection are on par with different years. However, some areas are experiencing extra circumstances (and associated deaths) than others. Check out this map. If you’re spending time outdoor, it’s at all times good to take additional precautions in opposition to skeeter bites. Plus, you’ll save your self the itch.
Latest COVID Updates and Health News: October 7, 2021
