Category: Immunology
New research suggests immunity to COVID is better than we first thought
Key parts of the immune system can remember the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, for at least eight or nine months, possibly for years.
We’re outnumbered by bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi that can make us ill. And the only thing standing between them and devastation is our immune system.
Training our immune systems: Why we should insist on a high-quality COVID-19 vaccine
The way we train our immune systems now to respond to SARS-CoV-2 could impact how well our bodies can respond to future coronaviruses.
Immune response to coronavirus weaker in men and elderly, UW study finds
Our bodies appear to mount a vigorous immune response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, but that response is weaker in men and people over 60;
Mutations linked to a common autoimmune disease may have protected bearers from the plague, study
Carrying one gene with the mutation might have helped protect against the plague, while carrying two leads the development of familial Mediterranean fever.
Two children in Washington state diagnosed with COVID-19 inflammatory syndrome
Although the syndrome is rare, parents should call their care providers if their children develop new or unusual symptoms, such as a persistent fever, headache, abdominal pain and respiratory symptoms.
Syphilis eludes immune attack by altering a single gene, UW study finds
By shuffling DNA in and out of one gene, syphilis stays a step ahead of the immune system to resist eradication.
COVID-19 survivors may help save lives by donating blood
Antibody-rich plasma from patients who have recovered from the infection may be effective treatment for those infected with the virus that causes COVID-19
What causes hangovers, blackouts and ‘hangxiety’? Everything you need to know about alcohol these holidays
Prevention is better than cure.
Overdose Prevention Should Include Alcohol Too, Study Suggests
Alcohol ramps up the effects of drugs that act on the brain and nervous system, and vice versa, which increases the risk of overdose.
Research reveals link between high pollen counts and low crime rates
Reported violent crime fell 4% on high-pollen days, about the level of crime reduction that would come with a 10% increase in the size of a city’s police force.
Still sneezing? Climate change may prolong allergy season
The dates that were traditionally considered the start and end of pollen seasons have become obsolete: seasons are generally starting earlier and ending later.
Kids should get dirty, but how dirty?
Let your kids play outside, get dirty, try new foods and be exposed to a variety of things. Have them go outside recess time in school as much as possible.
Pollen is getting worse
But you can make things better with these tips from an allergist
Will I Always Face The Threat Of A Peanut-Laden Kiss Of Death?
When I see a report touting peanut allergy treatments, I devour it, an occupational hazard for a journalist whose reporting and medical history intertwine.