Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, appointed to the post by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, "advises against the use of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines" for adults over 65, the most at-risk category, according to seasonal COVID-19 guidance issued by the Florida Department of Health on Thursday.
. . .
Lapado's advice runs counter to the positions of the FDA and many independent medical researchers who say studies have proven many times over that mRNA vaccines are vital and effective tools in controlling the spread of COVID-19 and its variants, and whose benefits far outweigh potential risks.
. . .
Critics in the medical world have previously taken DeSantis and his administration to task for stoking unfounded skepticism about vaccines for political gain.
Last year, the governor advised that people under the age of 65 skip the then-updated boosters.
Florida pediatricians concerned and 'exhausted' as kids' vaccination rate drops
Since the pandemic, vaccine hesitancy over the mRNA 'jab' spread to other vaccines, and one pediatrician says Florida is 'just one step away from another outbreak.'
. . .
Dr. Jeff Goldhagen, professor and chief of the Division of Community and Societal Pediatrics at the University of Florida, said the rise of unvaccinated children has multiple reasons, but points to the state’s own messaging about mRNA vaccines as “the most perverse.”
“It's an issue across the country, but it's a pertinent issue, a particular issue in Florida, because of the policies of our governor and our surgeon general,” said Goldhagen, who was also the previous director of the Duval County Health Department for 13 years.
I will pray for Floridians, ChastMastr. It's awful that someone like Dr. Lapado who has deliberately lied and made up falsities about mRNA vaccines and put 'parent choice' ahead of mandating vaccines for school children, or at least quarantining for those who aren't vaccinated during an outbreak, can be appointed to such an influential position for political reasons.
When my primary care doctor was getting ready to retire, his practice was transitioning to a new, 50-ish doctor. I took my parents to see him for their regular physicals in early 2020, and in spite of seeing a sign on the door to the practice that said masks must be worn in the building, I was astounded to see the new doctor without one. He shook Dad's hand before I could stop him, and I expressed my shock at seeing him without a mask on. He was quite ticked at me and said it was all 'hype'. (His word.)
He died a pretty terrible death from Covid not long after that. He put my elderly parents at risk and all the staff of the practice. And me too.
Very sorry to hear about those experiencing infections currently, healing and strength to you all. I had a bit of interesting news this week. Our National Library is recording some oral histories from people who are happy to have their experiences of covid recorded for posterity. We've only had one case in our house, but I still thought I'd indicate an interest and heard this week that I've been selected. Apparently about 300 interviews will be undertaken. The very nice interviewer is happy to test, mask and record the interview outside (if it's a still day). Otherwise we'll do it inside masked. I'm looking forward to participating in this important project.
I kept a daily journal during Covid tide, filled with the day to day experiences—not the stuff anyone could dig up from old newspapers. More “What did it feel like, to live through it?” It’s maybe 200 pages long. I did it because i used to be a minor aficionado of the 1918 flu, and when i saw the way things were shaping, was able to make predictions (and personal preparations) based on what i knew had happened back then. Very useful, though I did get yelled at by a friend for not filling her in more fully. But i was afraid of sowing discouragement if I’d told her we’d be at home for years…
I live in a senior mobile home park. The local medical clinic is having drive-by COVID and Senior Flu shots. Four of us will ride over together and make a party out of it. We are easily entertained.
I love the sound of your journal @Lamb Chopped , I wish I'd thought to do something similar. Cheery husband enquired about our vax status at the GP recently, I had hoped we were eligible for an update, but alas, not until December, so I'm very jealous of your drive by shots @Graven Image . I feel very fortunate that we have a drive through pharmacy not far from home and it's been worth it's weight in gold!
Today I've been very cheered by visiting a covid safe dentist, all staff in N95s and hepa filter on in the surgery. They kindly gave me a room that no one else has used today, even though it wasn't that particular dentist's usual consulting room. I have had my broken filling repaired and have some other work planned in the next few months. Feeling very grateful for their existence as I'd resigned myself to my teeth getting worse, but I feel some degree of hope now.
Phoned the surgery this morning to ask if there was an invitation to a flu jab clinic on the way. Apparently I should have already received one, but I could book one then and there - not only that, but could get my Covid booster done at the same time.
This is a great relief, as the Covid booster has not been available at the surgery before, and it has been difficult to find, or access, anywhere local to get it done.
We are both eligible for the RSV jab - just, but that can't be done at the same time (not enough arms?), so needs to be booked for a couple of weeks later.
I have my flu jab booked for the 12th and I hope they offer the Covid jab at the same time Like @Roseofsharon I've had to book that separately but the surgery does tend to spring two for the price of one offers on you, one year it was the pneumonia jab and last year it was the shingles one.
I'm not sure when I'm due for the next Covid jab. I think I had one earlier this year, but I need to check on the timing because I want to visit my brother who is in care and the thought of giving everyone in his care home Covid is too grim to contemplate. Fortunately Healthline are only a phone call away, though I might have to endure a long wait on the phone.
I got my flu and Covid shots about two weeks ago. Normally, I'll have a sore goose egg on my arm from the flu shot, but there were hardly any effects from either one this time!
I'm so glad to read there are still places where people can get 6 monthly shots. Here we've been reduced to an annual shot and silent withdrawal of access to anti-virals.
GP told husband that if our son with complex medical history were to be unwell, he could try to make a case for him to get anti-virals, sounds good in theory until everything goes pear shaped over a weekend when the essential doctor is not working and health officers work Monday to Friday. Ridiculous!!! I am not sure if they are available on private scripts, but knowing these are expensive, we could not pay for these multiple times.
Apparently the new XEC variant has now reached our shores, but no one really has a clue, without the former bird app I'd be completely at sea with what's happening in the world re the ongoing event
NZ had the do it yourself Covid tests free until the end of September, but I don't know how much they will cost now.
there are a few people still wearing masks on the bus. I'm never sure whether they are trying to avoid getting Covid or they have it and are trying not to pass it on.
@Huia, that is something I wonder about too and have seen people doing a double take when they see me appear at the coffee shop in my N95. I am of the mind that if people think I'm ill and give me a wide berth, I am more than happy for that!!
I've had a good experience recently with a covidsafe dentist. They leave windows open, run filters, phoned me to remind me to bring an N95 mask and all the staff are wearing respirators. I had a lost filling replaced after avoiding it for about a year, due to the fact I knew I couldn't ring every dentist in town to find out if they were taking precautions. Again the former bird app came to the aid as someone local posted a surgery and I was able to get a booking (two now). Unfortunately it's a half hour drive from me, but well worth it. I had added extra time yesterday to allow for parking/traffic issues, which did not materialise and they were able to get me in 20 mins early, so very happy with their service. I anticipate part of this is not wanting people hanging around in communal spaces for lengthy periods of time, but it made me happy nonetheless.
A few months ago I was also looking and came across a site called Clean Air stars, which was very interesting, I was happy to see some theatres listed which have upgraded their ventilation and I hope at some point it might happen locally and make me a lot more confident to return to enjoying live performances.
Apologies to the hosts for being a thread hog, but as a few days have elapsed, I hope this is ok.
Daughter had a work colleague test positive this week, they had returned home from travelling and back at work last week. I held my tongue as daughter has her own views about infection, however I'm feeling very happy with her response to the info I was able to glean.
Our local radio had a segment this am where listeners could ring in with questions re XEC variant. My questions were answered re the above and long story short, the answer was she should get a pcr test.
I've phoned the GP this morning and she can get a test tomorrow. I think normally she wouldn't bother, but knowing that it can free her up to be in the house unmasked and won't have to keep testing via RAT makes her happy to go along. I just hope we get a GP that doesn't try to minimise her request for a test. If there is a charge we parents are happy to bear that to get her to comply. Honestly I think the worplace should be getting everyone swabbed and be paying for that, but I know the chances of that happening are less than 0.
@Cheery Gardener Your earlier post reminded me to check with my medical centre when my next jab is due as I had lost track.. It's not until November. Given that Christmas usually involves being around more people I'm going to write a reminder on the calendar.
Glad that was helpful for you @Huia! Mine is also due at Christmas, though I doubt the ability of our useless government to have sourced a vaccine that is relevant. I'd love to be surprised, but going on past history, meh.
We have cancelled the daughter's medical appointment for this afternoon. She checked the GP website and it appeared that "if" she could convince the Dr (and that is doubtful), that she should be swabbed, all that would happen is that they would give her a form to go to a second provider, to have that done. Honestly! Yesterday's receptionist had not offered that info and a nurse today "suggested" she should buy some RATS to test, sorry this is getting a bit hellish, but heavens to Betsy, that's the best on offer??!!!!
Sorry, but we're not paying over $100 for an appointment for a GP to reiterate that, or for her to have to unpack her brother's history and why it's so important to have the info to protect her and moreso, him as well as her work colleagues. It appears that these days the precautionary principle is in the dustbin along with keeping up with the latest around the virus. Receptionists wearing baggy blues under their chins. Doctors in N95's (forget it), windows open or HEPA filters running (in your dreams. Who even are these people??????
Masks are again required in my county in all medical facilities starting November 1st. Why should we wait until November if the numbers are increasing? I plan to mask in public from now on.
I agree @Graven Image, everyone is vulnerable to covid and wearing a mask in crowded areas is a great preventor. I have never understood why they were ever removed from medical facilities as they are a hub of unwell people mixing together. Staff need to be protected, so they can continue to function well both personally and professionally and people who are already unwell don't need to catch another infection. Change of thinking and behaviours required.
I agree @Graven Image, everyone is vulnerable to covid and wearing a mask in crowded areas is a great preventor. I have never understood why they were ever removed from medical facilities as they are a hub of unwell people mixing together. Staff need to be protected, so they can continue to function well both personally and professionally and people who are already unwell don't need to catch another infection. Change of thinking and behaviours required.
There are negatives to masks. Communication is restricted, especially where people are dependent on lip reading. It can be harder to recognise or distinguish colleagues.
There is therefore a risk/benefit balance to be done.
I am hard of hearing and do indeed depend on some lip reading, but I think not getting COVID with my health issues makes it worth the mask. When I explain that I am hard of hearing and ask people with masks to speak slower and louder and face me, most are happy to do so. I do indeed do not think I would recognize my doctor as I have never seen her without a mask.
Masks are again required in my county in all medical facilities starting November 1st. Why should we wait until November if the numbers are increasing? I plan to mask in public from now on.
I'd imagine you need to give people some lead time to ensure that they have a supply of masks available, instruct their staff in the requirements and so on. Two weeks' lead time sounds like a normal and reasonable enough length of time.
https://occupli.com/face-masks-vs-face-visors-which-is-most-effective/ If you see a gp, and they put on a surgical mask or visor - unless it is N95 or some form of respirator - they are doing it to minimise the risk giving you Covid if they have an undetected infection, rather than to stop them catching it from you. If you want extra protection to not get it from them, then you need an N95 or hgher.
Feeling very fortunate here. I phoned the local GP last week and Cheery son and I can have a new booster Friday this week. We will have to get up with the sparrows, but well worth it!
Pfizer's JN.1 (addresses the current dominant circulating strain) is available in Australia now. I had a booster of it last week. I'll have RSV and flu jabs together in early April, and the next COVID booster in May.
I recently published a novel set in the time of Covid (as it were. I know it is still with us). It is interesting how many comments have been along the lines of ‘I’d forgotten what it was like/how we coped etc.
Son and I went along for our JN1 vax yesterday. I queried the nurse and she happily showed me the vial. We were the only people wearing respirators in the whole place.
I've just had a quick look upthread and saw the visors conversation. A supplier I use for respirators also sells some that have a clear piece that people can wear to make life easier for those who need to lipread. I thought they were a brilliant idea. I haven't bought any yet, but am considering them for when I have coffee with a friend who has impaired hearing
Comments
https://www.upi.com/amp/Top_News/US/2024/09/13/Citing-safety-fears-Florida-surgeon-general-advises-seniors-avoid-COVID-boosters/6851726251706/
https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/local/state/2024/09/16/pediatricians-exhausted-vaccinations-drop-desantis-florida-covid-19-measles-diseases/75018883007/
Here is a good video and transcript of Paul Offit MD, from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia if you need to share a refutation of Lapado's vaccine claims with scared friends or relatives in Florida. https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19vaccine/108145
It's a good explanation of why mRNA vaccines cannot damage our DNA, which I already knew, but it is good to understand fully why they are safe.
What an idiot.
He died a pretty terrible death from Covid not long after that. He put my elderly parents at risk and all the staff of the practice. And me too.
Today I've been very cheered by visiting a covid safe dentist, all staff in N95s and hepa filter on in the surgery. They kindly gave me a room that no one else has used today, even though it wasn't that particular dentist's usual consulting room. I have had my broken filling repaired and have some other work planned in the next few months. Feeling very grateful for their existence as I'd resigned myself to my teeth getting worse, but I feel some degree of hope now.
This is a great relief, as the Covid booster has not been available at the surgery before, and it has been difficult to find, or access, anywhere local to get it done.
We are both eligible for the RSV jab - just, but that can't be done at the same time (not enough arms?), so needs to be booked for a couple of weeks later.
GP told husband that if our son with complex medical history were to be unwell, he could try to make a case for him to get anti-virals, sounds good in theory until everything goes pear shaped over a weekend when the essential doctor is not working and health officers work Monday to Friday. Ridiculous!!! I am not sure if they are available on private scripts, but knowing these are expensive, we could not pay for these multiple times.
Apparently the new XEC variant has now reached our shores, but no one really has a clue, without the former bird app I'd be completely at sea with what's happening in the world re the ongoing event
You can get pretty much any shot, provided your doc will prescribe it and you can (through insurance) afford it. I'm sorry.
there are a few people still wearing masks on the bus. I'm never sure whether they are trying to avoid getting Covid or they have it and are trying not to pass it on.
I've had a good experience recently with a covidsafe dentist. They leave windows open, run filters, phoned me to remind me to bring an N95 mask and all the staff are wearing respirators. I had a lost filling replaced after avoiding it for about a year, due to the fact I knew I couldn't ring every dentist in town to find out if they were taking precautions. Again the former bird app came to the aid as someone local posted a surgery and I was able to get a booking (two now). Unfortunately it's a half hour drive from me, but well worth it. I had added extra time yesterday to allow for parking/traffic issues, which did not materialise and they were able to get me in 20 mins early, so very happy with their service. I anticipate part of this is not wanting people hanging around in communal spaces for lengthy periods of time, but it made me happy nonetheless.
A few months ago I was also looking and came across a site called Clean Air stars, which was very interesting, I was happy to see some theatres listed which have upgraded their ventilation and I hope at some point it might happen locally and make me a lot more confident to return to enjoying live performances.
Daughter had a work colleague test positive this week, they had returned home from travelling and back at work last week. I held my tongue as daughter has her own views about infection, however I'm feeling very happy with her response to the info I was able to glean.
Our local radio had a segment this am where listeners could ring in with questions re XEC variant. My questions were answered re the above and long story short, the answer was she should get a pcr test.
I've phoned the GP this morning and she can get a test tomorrow. I think normally she wouldn't bother, but knowing that it can free her up to be in the house unmasked and won't have to keep testing via RAT makes her happy to go along. I just hope we get a GP that doesn't try to minimise her request for a test. If there is a charge we parents are happy to bear that to get her to comply. Honestly I think the worplace should be getting everyone swabbed and be paying for that, but I know the chances of that happening are less than 0.
We have cancelled the daughter's medical appointment for this afternoon. She checked the GP website and it appeared that "if" she could convince the Dr (and that is doubtful), that she should be swabbed, all that would happen is that they would give her a form to go to a second provider, to have that done. Honestly! Yesterday's receptionist had not offered that info and a nurse today "suggested" she should buy some RATS to test, sorry this is getting a bit hellish, but heavens to Betsy, that's the best on offer??!!!!
Sorry, but we're not paying over $100 for an appointment for a GP to reiterate that, or for her to have to unpack her brother's history and why it's so important to have the info to protect her and moreso, him as well as her work colleagues. It appears that these days the precautionary principle is in the dustbin along with keeping up with the latest around the virus. Receptionists wearing baggy blues under their chins. Doctors in N95's (forget it), windows open or HEPA filters running (in your dreams. Who even are these people??????
There are negatives to masks. Communication is restricted, especially where people are dependent on lip reading. It can be harder to recognise or distinguish colleagues.
There is therefore a risk/benefit balance to be done.
I'd imagine you need to give people some lead time to ensure that they have a supply of masks available, instruct their staff in the requirements and so on. Two weeks' lead time sounds like a normal and reasonable enough length of time.
I've just had a quick look upthread and saw the visors conversation. A supplier I use for respirators also sells some that have a clear piece that people can wear to make life easier for those who need to lipread. I thought they were a brilliant idea. I haven't bought any yet, but am considering them for when I have coffee with a friend who has impaired hearing