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About Oakhurst, NJ
Oakhurst is a census-designated place in Monmouth County of New Jersey. It is an and unincorporated area located within Ocean Township in this county. It is known for its museum and parks. Major attractions include Joe Palaia Park and Ocean Township Historical Museum. The town hosts local events like Italian Festival. Among the biggest companies in Oakhurst are Emarzo Inc, and Lighthouse Funding, LLC. The biggest schools here are Ocean Twp High School and Ocean Twp Elementary School. One of the best places to visit when you are in Oakhurst is the Ocean Township Historical Museum. A famous person from Oakhurst includes professional golfer Lou Barbaro.
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A SAFETY GUIDE FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Damanprett Ubhi. After over a year of on-and-off again travel restrictions, most of the world is welcoming back Americans, and many adventurers are eager to get their passports stamped again. In fact, a McKinsey assessment on the travel industry shows that air travel is closer to pre-pandemic levels and hotel occupancy is up. However, the combination of lagging vaccination rates, spread of the Delta variant, and threat of travel-related diseases does complicate things. ID Care’s Dr. Damanpreet Ubhi simplifies these complex topics in this helpful guide to international travel. It covers popular destinations, COVID-19 rules and requirements, travel tips, and advice on what to do before, during, and after traveling abroad to stay safe and healthy. Returning to Top International Travel Destinations As people think about returning to global travel this year, there are many countries that remain on many top destination “wish lists”. They are culturally diverse, offer great site-seeing opportunities, are rich in history, and have great local cuisines – all of which make them appealing. But many of these destinations are also developing countries that present some hidden risks that travelers may not be aware of. In fact, up to 79% of travelers from developing countries return ill with a travel-related health problem. These countries include Brazil, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Mexico, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam, to name just a few. And South African safaris and Caribbean cruises are also expected to make a strong comeback for travel. It’s important to remember that each destination and your itinerary can present unique challenges and the potential for contracting a travel-related illness – some of which are preventable with proper planning and vaccines. So, it’s key to think ahead to be prepared. How Travel Medicine Helps You for Global Travel Travel medicine is a field of medicine that is dedicated to keeping travelers safe and healthy. An ID Care travel medicine specialist helps prepare you to stay well overseas and minimizes the possibility of illness. The process begins by creating a personalized travel care plan at your first consultation. Your ID Care specialist reviews your general health and risk factors, reviews relevant vaccines and prescription medications, discusses destination-specific concerns, advises on food and water safety, and provides packing tips for over-the-counter medications – among many other things. ID Care’s individualized travel care plans are created with every possible risk and preventative measure in mind. This includes pre-travel preparation, measures to take while traveling, and post-travel health care. And it is important to know that international travelers always have access to their ID Care specialist while traveling abroad which is comforting in times of need. Top Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally Prepare for a safe, healthy, and enjoyable trip by doing these key things in advance: Visit a Travel Medicine Specialist – the ideal time to book your consultation is 4-6 weeks before traveling, but an ID Care travel medicine specialist can help if your appointment and departure date are closer together. Make Sure Your Passport Is Valid – If your passport expires less than 6 months after your anticipated return date, you should renew it immediately. Some countries don’t accept passports that expire sooner. And currently, it can take 18 weeks or longer to renew a U.S. passport, so plan ahead. Check Visa Requirements – visa policies vary, so contact your host country’s embassy for information on visa requirements based on your destination and duration of stay. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) – STEP is a free service to enroll in for your trip that provides important country-specific information from the Embassy about safety conditions and local emergencies at your destination, in real time. Buy Travel Insurance – add a separate policy for travel coverage and a medical evacuation policy in case an emergency medical transfer is necessary. Learn your destination’s COVID-19 protocols and testing locations! What to Pack When Traveling Internationally Your exact packing list will vary by destination, but these travel essentials benefit everyone: Valid Passport and Applicable Visas Travel Insurance Paperwork Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination and/or a Recent Negative COVID-19 Test Medications and First Aid Kit – prescriptions and over-the-counter products are essential. A travel medicine specialist will provide destination-specific recommendations. And always carry copies of your prescriptions. Face Masks and Hand Sanitizer – masks are required in airports, on airplanes and on all public transportation; additional mandates vary by destination and activities. Climate-Specific Clothing – including comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket. Protective Sun Gear – plan on an SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Misc. Must-Haves – a day travel bag, universal travel adaptor, headphones, to name a few. Some more remote destinations have a higher likelihood of water contamination and/or insect-borne illnesses. Travelers heading to these areas should also pack: Yellow Fever Card – a yellow card is an important document that proves you’ve been vaccinated against yellow fever. Your ID Care travel medicine specialist can administer the vaccine and provide a yellow card if your destination requires it. Insect Repellent – to prevent travel-related illnesses caused by tick or insect bites. Water Purification Tablets – to disinfect contaminated drinking water; also bring a reusable water bottle. What You Need to Know About Travel Vaccines for Global Destinations Important travel vaccines along with recommended medications vary based on your destination and planned activities. Crucial inoculations for Central and South America or South Africa-bound travelers, like the yellow fever vaccine, are often difficult to access. So, give yourself time to locate a physician – ideally a travel medicine specialist like those at ID Care- who can provide the right travel health guidance and administer these vaccines. Additionally, health professionals use CDC’s Yellow Book to ensure they have the latest travel health guidelines, pre-travel vaccine recommendations, and destination-specific health advice for popular international destinations. Some of the recommended vaccinations include: Brazil – typhoid, yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis, and possibly rabies Costa Rica – typhoid, yellow fever, and possibly rabies Jamaica – typhoid, and possibly yellow fever and rabies Mexico – malaria prophylaxis, typhoid, and possibly rabies Thailand – typhoid, malaria prophylaxis, Japanese encephalitis Turkey – typhoid and possibly rabies Vietnam – typhoid, malaria prophylaxis, Japanese encephalitis South Africa – typhoid, yellow fever, malaria prophylaxis, and possibly rabies Cruises – vary based the ports visited and length of stay in each Dr. Ubhi adds, “It’s easy to forget about international health risks when you’re on a cruise. However, it’s still important to take precautions, especially when you’re visiting many ports. I often recommend cruise passengers get a typhoid vaccine because big ships often visit areas that may expose travelers to contaminated food or water. So, the risk of contracting an infectious disease increases in these conditions.” While certain vaccines may be recommended (i.e., CDC Yellow Book), Dr. Ubhi always evaluates each individual travel scenario to determine if every recommended vaccine is required and if other measures should be considered to ensure the traveler’s optimal safety. Dr. Ubhi explains, “We scrutinize the details of your itinerary and ask lots of questions to determine your exact needs versus recommending all travel vaccines,” says Dr. Ubhi. “I think about any relevant scenario and its potential risks. For example, I’ll ask a Brazil-bound traveler if they’ll be around animals to determine if a rabies vaccine is really necessary.” Additional Vaccines to Consider as You Prepare to Travel All travelers should get the COVID-19 vaccine and be updated on routine vaccinations for maximum protection. Routine vaccines include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, polio, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza (flu). A travel medicine specialist at ID Care will review your current health situation, the status of your routine vaccinations, and then administer what is needed to ensure you are current and protected pre-travel. More Travel Health Concerns to Consider But there are also many travel health concerns that aren’t preventable with a vaccine. A very common one is traveler’s diarrhea, which affects up to 70% of travelers. Other health issues stem from tick, insect, and rodent bites. They cause illnesses such as dengue, zika, chagas disease, hantavirus, leishmaniasis, chikungunya, and crimean-congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF). For more on these and other travel-related diseases, refer to the CDC’s Travelers Disease Directory Travel medicine specialists at ID Care can help you avoid or treat all these issues. International Travel and COVID-19 Knowing destination-specific local COVID-19 testing requirements, rules and regulations, and how vaccines affect where you can and can’t go, is important for international travel. Each country has its own protocols in place, and they often change as the situation evolves. For example, vaccinated travelers heading to Phuket (Thailand) don’t need to quarantine but unvaccinated travelers do. An ID Care travel medicine specialist knows the nuances of each country and makes sure you meet its requirements. Refer to the CDC’s COVID-19 destination guide to learn about transmission rates worldwide. And it is important to know that currently everyone re-entering the U.S. must provide a negative COVID-19 test. It must be completed within 3 days of your return flight. Many hotels and cruise lines offer on-site testing to fulfill this requirement. Taking a Cruise During Times of COVID-19 COVID-19 vaccination requirements vary by cruise line and port of departure. Some cruise lines are open to fully vaccinated guests only. Others accept unvaccinated guests but might charge higher rates to cover required frequent on-board COVID-19 testing. All cruisers must present a negative test and pass a wellness check upon arrival. Cruises present a particular risk of easy spread of disease and infection outbreaks as people are in contained areas and close proximity, so taking precautionary measures is vital. Vaccine Passports for International Travel While the U.S. doesn’t have an official COVID-19 vaccine passport, other countries have launched one or have plans to do so – but there is still no universal passport for Americans traveling abroad. New Jersey residents can securely access and share proof of vaccination in the U.S. through the New Jersey Department of Health’s Docket app. It’s free for iPhone and Android users. 3 Important Food Safety Tips While Traveling Abroad Enjoy your meals as you travel and explore new food options, but choose them carefully by following these simple food safety tips: Don’t Eat Raw Foods – including fruits, vegetables, undercooked eggs, and very rare meat. Avoid Tap Water – opt for bottled water instead. Carry water purification tablets as backup. Skip Street Food – look for recommended eateries as you can get sick if a food vendor doesn’t practice good hygiene or if food has been sitting out too long. What to do If You’re Sick While Traveling Contact your travel medicine physician if you’re sick overseas. Travel medicine specialists, like those at ID Care, are accessible and can provide guidance over the phone or via email and help direct you on where to go to get local care if needed. What to Do When You Return Home All travelers should get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after returning home. The CDC’s post-international travel guide states vaccinated travelers who test negative do not need to quarantine. Unvaccinated travelers should quarantine for 7 days, regardless of test results. Even if your COVID-19 test is negative, it’s still possible to get sick from something that is indigenous to the country you visited, as 79% of travelers return ill after visiting a developing country. You should not wait and contact your physician if you don’t feel well. ID Care’s travel medicine specialists are experienced infectious disease doctors. That’s valuable – especially if you return home ill – because their expertise also lies in the origin and treatment of infections (viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic) and travel-related diseases. “It can take up to 4 weeks after traveling for an illness to fully present itself, but symptoms usually appear sooner,” says Dr. Ubhi. “Pay attention to how you feel and look for anything different on your body, like insect bites and bruises. This can be a sign that you may have contracted an infectious disease that must be diagnosed and treated right away.” In summary, global travel will continue to be a wonderful experience that we all look forward to. It also something we must prepare for, including a travel medicine consultation, to ensure our health and safety in today’s changing world. How ID Care’s Travel Medicine Specialists Help You ID Care is New Jersey’s largest travel medicine and infectious disease practice. Its team of travel medicine specialists and 40+ infectious disease doctors offer you decades of experience with every disease, travel-related illness, and health condition. With 10 outpatient locations throughout New Jersey, scheduling a travel medicine consultation is easy. Call 908-281-0221 or visit idcare.com to book your appointment.
FLU, COVID-19, COMMON COLD: WHAT TO EXPECT THIS FALL
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Theodore Markou. As fall approaches, so do concerns surrounding “flu season”– especially with the highly contagious COVID-19 Delta variant still impacting our communities. According to the CDC, flu cases were an all-time low last year, even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, but this year is expected to be quite different. Since the flu was not prevalent last year, immunity to flu viruses likely waned. And now with loosened restrictions, inconsistent masking, and a partially vaccinated country, an uptick in flu cases along with the common cold is inevitable. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the differences between seasonal viruses that cause the flu and common cold versus COVID-19. ID Care infectious disease specialist Dr. Theodore Markou shares everything you need to know about the flu, how its symptoms compare to COVID-19 and the common cold, and how to prevent, diagnose, and treat these contagious respiratory illnesses. What and When is Flu Season? Flu season is the time period when the influenza virus is most contagious, when the weather is colder and humidity drops, allowing the flu virus to survive and circulate. Human behavior also contributes to this as the cold weather forces people to congregate indoors in close proximity, allowing us to spread flu virus particles easier from person to person. Crowded schools, offices, and sporting events can be risky environments. And flu season can last 7-8 consecutive months, typically beginning in late September, peaking in December through March, and ending in late Spring around early May. What Causes the Flu Compared to a Cold and COVID-19? There are different families of viruses that cause each of these contagious respiratory illnesses. Influenza is caused by the flu family of viruses that mostly affect the nose, throat, and lungs. There are four different types of flu viruses (A, B, C, D), but seasonal flu cases in humans are tied to the most common influenza virus type A followed by influenza virus type B. It is interesting to note that influenza A is most known to cause the pandemics we see every 1-2 decades, like the 2009 swine flu caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, as it can infect animals and then jump to humans. In contrast, influenza B solely infects humans. Dr. Markou reports that type A is the most contagious and accounts for about 75% of flu cases annually. Influenza A will likely peak in the winter between December and January, whereas B may linger a little bit longer until the end of April and early May. He also adds that people who get infected with influenza A will have slightly more symptoms, whereas people infected with influenza B will have some ameliorated symptoms and not get as sick. However, colds are caused by a wide variety of viruses, including RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), rhinovirus, adenovirus, enterovirus, human parainfluenza virus (HPIV) and many others. And COVID-19 is caused by a novel virus from the coronavirus family, most specifically SARS-CoV-2. What are Flu Symptoms Compared to Those for COVID-19 and a Cold? The most common symptoms of these respiratory illnesses can initially present similarly. They all have varying degrees of cough, congestion, body aches, headaches, and sore throat. Flu and COVID-19 can include a fever, shortness of breath, exhaustion, and diarrhea, but the symptoms do vary with each person. Additionally, the severity and duration of the symptoms will differ with each disease. Dr. Markou explains that symptoms of a common cold will generally be mild and resolve in 24 to 48 hours. However, the flu comes on relatively quickly after you’re infected, and the symptoms come on stronger and have a higher impact on the body. Flu symptoms will usually resolve after 5 to 7 days but can last for up to two weeks. And people will feel very sick for that duration. In contrast, COVID-19 patients usually start showing mild symptoms within 3 to 5 days of infection, and those usually resolve in a week. These symptoms can differ for each person. For example, some people may not have a cough but exhibit diarrhea as their primary symptom. But one symptom that is more unique to COVID-19 is losing your sense of taste and smell completely. This usually resolves at some point after the virus is gone. However, sometimes in certain COVID-19 patients, there can be a reemergence of symptoms, with shortness of breath being the main concern. This type of shortness of breath and this kind of reaction is not caused by the virus per se, but more so by an overreaction of your own immune system to the virus. That’s what can get COVID-19 patients into trouble in the hospital and why they sometimes require the assistance of a breathing machine. It is important to note that people who are fully vaccinated and then contract COVID-19, mainly due to the Delta variant currently, may exhibit different symptoms from those unvaccinated. If you do show signs and symptoms, they will likely be milder because your body has already had practice at eliminating this virus and has built up a defense. Individuals may not experience every symptom, but any combination is common. “COVID-19 and even the common cold complicates things because of overlapping symptoms with the flu,” says Dr. Markou. “It’s crucial to really listen to your body and get tested when you’re unwell, especially as we enter the fall as a variety of respiratory illnesses are possible.” How Do You Diagnose the Flu, COVID-19, and a Cold? The only way to accurately diagnose if you have the flu, COVID-19, or a common cold is through testing at a doctor’s office or urgent care center. The test involves using nasal swabs that employ PCR technology. Once you have the test, the swabs go into a machine that detect DNA and RNA viral particles to provide a diagnosis of what virus you have. Different facilities have different tests, but this is the best way to diagnose if you have the flu versus COVID-19 versus a cold. It is important to know that free COVID-19 testing is available at over 400 permanent testing centers in New Jersey. How Contagious is the Flu Compared to COVID-19 or a Cold? The flu, COVID-19 (especially the Delta variant), and a common cold are all contagious respiratory conditions. All three spread by coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Those actions send infected respiratory droplets into the air which then get inhaled by others. And sturdy viruses, like the flu, are also spread by touching infected surfaces as the flu viruses live much longer on them. So, you can catch the flu by touching a surface that an infected person touched after sneezing into their hand, like a doorknob. However, COVID-19 is not as sturdy a virus and doesn’t live long on surfaces, so it is much more difficult to contract this virus via contact with them. The same is true with viruses that cause the common cold. It should be noted that surface cleaners that say they “kill 99% of germs and viruses” are effective at killing viruses that live on surfaces. Dr. Markou explains, “Infectious disease physicians like those at ID Care use a measure called the R-naught to determine the infectivity rate of the flu and other viruses like COVID-19. Essentially, the R-naught or R0 indicates how contagious and infectious a disease is, or the reproduction number. In fact, the R-naught predicts how many new cases of any given virus will replicate from exposure to a single case. For example, the R-naught for influenza is 1.3 – 1.5. That means that every infected person will infect 1.3 to 1.5 other people. In comparison, the R-naught for COVID-19 is 1.8 – 3, so it’s significantly more contagious than the flu. However, there is not an exact R-naught available for a cold, but it’s less than 1 for most cold viruses, so they are not as infectious. So COVID-19 is the most contagious, followed by the flu, and then a cold. And it is easy to see how these numbers scale, and how the COVID-19 pandemic arose and why the upcoming flu season is a concern”. Who is Most at Risk for Flu Complications Compared to COVID-19? Anyone can get sick from the flu or COVID-19, but there are populations that are more at risk. For the flu, it affects extreme ages – very young babies and children to older adults over 65. Additionally, those with comorbid underlying health conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and heart, lung or kidney disease are at higher risk for both viruses. Up until recently, the flu affected far more children and babies than COVID-19. However, the Delta variant is now affecting children at a higher rate than previous COVID-19 strains and has presented challenges in certain states where they have run out of pediatric ICU beds due to higher volumes of severe cases. Can You Get Hospitalized or Die from the Flu? Although most people recover from the flu within two weeks, it’s possible to be hospitalized if you’re considered higher risk and showing signs of not breathing well. The flu can be quite severe and should be taken seriously. Dr. Markou explains, “In fact, a person who comes to the doctor or ER and their oxygen levels are dropping, appear to be severely dehydrated, or have uncontrollable fevers, oftentimes, the ER or internal medicine doctor who is working at the hospital will admit them for evaluation”. The CDC estimated 400,000 flu-related hospitalizations and 22,000 deaths in the 2019/2020 season. The upcoming flu season is expected to be more difficult as we now must factor in COVID-19 and related hospitalizations and deaths. The best way to prevent hospitalization is to get diagnosed by a doctor at the onset of symptoms and to determine the proper course of treatment. How Can You Prevent the Flu, COVID-19, or a Cold? You can prevent or minimize symptoms for the flu, COVID-19, or a cold with frequent hand washing, physical distancing, covering coughs and sneezes, limiting exposure to infected people, and staying home when you’re sick. Additionally, vaccinations for both the flu and COVID-19 are beneficial immune-building tools that help your body develop antibodies and protect you from these viruses. These vaccines protect you from becoming ill or significantly lessen your symptoms if you do become infected. Currently, a vaccine for the common cold doesn’t exist. “Taking preventative measures, including getting vaccinated, is important for everyone who is eligible,” says Dr. Markou. “Babies under 6 months cannot get a flu shot and kids under 12 years old can’t get a COVID-19 vaccine, so a great way to protect them is try to surround them with people who are inoculated.” What Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines are Available? There are several flu and COVID-19 vaccines available today. While they each work differently, they all serve to create antibodies to fight the virus and are highly effective in preventing infection or minimizing the symptoms of these contagious respiratory illnesses. It is recommended that everyone 6 months and older get their flu shot each year by early October, prior to the onset of flu season. And if you’re also getting a COVID-19 vaccine (now available for children 12 years and older), Dr. Markou recommends waiting a two-week period between getting a flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine. Flu Vaccines and How They Work? There are three main types of flu vaccines and each one creates antibodies in a different way. Each year, WHO (World Heath Organization) collects data to predict flu strains that will be most prevalent, and vaccines are formulated to specifically address these strains. The following highlights the flu vaccines available and how they work. Fluzone – this vaccine is the most used and is made up of a dead or inactivated The immune system is exposed to pieces of it and develops antibodies to protect you from a new infection. This vaccine is injected into the arm and used for people 6 months of age and older. There are two doses of this vaccine; the normal dose and a higher dose version that is optimal for those over 65 as it provides more protection. FluMist – this vaccine takes a live attenuated virus and weakens it. Once introduced, it causes an immune response in the body. This vaccine is given as an intranasal spray and is approved for people 2 to 49 years old. This vaccine should not be administered to those pregnant, immunocompromised, or have other select health conditions. Flublok – this vaccine is the newest and produced through recombinant or synthetic technology. It takes proteins from the influenza virus itself and formulates a vaccine using those proteins, so your body recognizes and makes more of those proteins. This creates antibodies for protection from infection. This vaccine is injected into the arm. CDC studies show the recombinant vaccine provides better immunity for seniors. Flublok is recommended for individuals 18 years and older, including those with egg allergies. It should be noted that all these vaccines are approved and tested for safety. Individuals may experience minor side effects from the flu vaccine, including a low-grade fever or sore arm, but these will go away within a few days. It is vital to get the flu vaccine for protection again the influenza virus. An ID Care infectious disease expert can assist in determining what vaccine is optimal based on your age, health status, allergies, and other key factors. They can also administer the Fluzone vaccine in preparation for flu season. COVID-19 Vaccines and How They Work There are two primary types of COVID-19 vaccines available. The mRNA technology vaccines are available from both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna as a two-dose base regimen while the more traditional virus-based technology is used for the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Only the Pfizer vaccine is now FDA approved, while the other vaccines are still available under EUA (Emergency Use Authorization) as they are pending FDA approval. It is important to note that no COVID-19 vaccine has any active virus as part of its composition, nor does it interact with or impact your DNA in any way. mRNA Technology – messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines do not alter your DNA. The vaccine works by taking a piece of viral mRNA material and placing it into a fat molecule. This fat molecule is then taken up by cells to produce the protein encoded by the viral code (mRNA material). The protein will be recognized by your immune system and develop antibodies to protect you from infection. The cells teach your body how to make the protein found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus. That causes your body to create antibodies to protect you from infection. The two doses for this vaccine are administered in the arm at different time intervals about a month apart. For the Pfizer vaccine, it is FDA approved for those 16 and older but its EUA extends to ages 12-15, while Moderna is cleared for those 18 and older. Traditional Virus-Based Technology – this vaccine uses a weakened version of an adenovirus, which is a group of viruses that create cold-like symptoms. The virus enters your cells and is translated into a protein that forms a large structure with protruding bumps, known as a spike protein. Spike proteins are what help any type of coronavirus (including COVID-19) infect cells. In this case, the spike protein is shown to your body to create antibodies. That prevents the COVID-19 virus from being able to latch onto your cells and infect you. This is a single-does vaccine administered in the arm. This vaccine is cleared for those 18 and older. According to Dr. Markou, “It’s important to note that people who are fully vaccinated and then contract COVID-19, mainly due to the Delta variant currently, may exhibit different symptoms from those unvaccinated”. Those vaccinated are more likely to experience upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, headache, fatigue, loss of smell/taste, sinus congestion and less likely to experience high fevers, cough, and shortness of breath. For information on convenient NJ locations to access all COVID-19 vaccines, visit the New Jersey COVID-19 Information Hub. How Does ID Care Treat Flu Patients? ID Care physicians are experts at preventative measures as well as treating flu patients. First, they recommend the flu shot as a preventative step. It’s available at all 10 ID Care locations. If you’ve already been infected with the flu, ID Care’s infectious disease doctors will evaluate your condition and may prescribe an antiviral medication called Tamiflu (oseltamivir). The prescription antiviral is most effective when started within 48-72 hours of infection, decreasing the severity of symptoms and the amount of virus in the body so you recover faster. How Does ID Care Treat COVID-19 Patients? The infectious disease experts at ID Care are working inside New Jersey’s hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities to care for and treat hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In fact, they have guiding response to the COVID-19 pandemic across the state during the last year and a half. They continue to lead measures for infection control and new treatment protocols that are on the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic – saving lives and improving outcomes for patients. ID Care Infectious Disease Experts for Respiratory Illnesses The many overlapping symptoms between the flu, COVID-19, and the common cold can be confusing. That, coupled with the infectious nature of all three, make it important to stay home and get tested when you’re sick. The promising news, however, is that there are steps you can take to prevent infection or minimize the severity of illness. They include getting fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and influenza as well basic measures like mask wearing in crowded spaces, physical distancing, practicing good hand hygiene, and covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. As the largest infectious disease practice in New Jersey and the second largest in the country, the ID Care team are leaders in the prevention and treatment of any type of infectious disease, including the flu and COVID-19. To learn more, visit idcare.com or call 908-281-0221 to schedule an appointment with an ID Care infectious disease expert.
LATEST ON COVID-19 VARIANTS, VACCINES, AND BOOSTERS
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Theodore Markou. We are more than 18 months into the COVID-19 pandemic and our lives have fundamentally changed. It’s an everchanging landscape with new variants emerging, vaccination rates evolving, and additional dose or “booster” eligibility changing. And it appears that these issues will be part of our daily existence into the near future. So, we must keep updated on the latest happenings to stay protected and to ensure we can live the healthiest and safest lives possible. In this article, ID Care infectious disease expert Dr. Theodore Markou answers important questions about the latest news and happenings surrounding COVID-19. Latest on US and NJ Vaccination Rates Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination rates have varied from state-to-state. From the start of CDC vaccine dose tracking in mid-December 2020, doses peaked in the US in mid-April 2021 and then began to decline through mid-July, with a slight upswing and then leveling off through late-September 2021. The CDC reports that current vaccination rates show 55% of the U.S. population fully vaccinated and 64% having received at least one dose. For the most vulnerable population, adults 65 and older, the numbers are even higher at 83% fully vaccinated and 93% at least one dose (source: CDC data as of 9/23/21). This is encouraging news for the country. In New Jersey, we have achieved phenomenal vaccination rates through September 2021, especially when compared to national rates. Currently over 63% of the state’s population are fully vaccinated and 71% have received at least one dose. The figures are even more impressive among the most vulnerable population, those 65 and above, at over 87% fully vaccinated and over 98% receiving one dose. So, we’re certainly moving in the right direction. Keep updated on vaccine progress at USAFacts.org. Which COVID-19 Variants are Most Concerning? While vaccination rates in NJ are relatively high, all viruses change and mutate, just like COVID-19 has done. However, the Delta variant has completely changed the game as it is the most prevalent and contagious out there. According to Dr. Markou, “The degree or viral load of COVID-19 (Delta) in an infected individual is quite impressive. This has led to it being two to two and a half times more contagious than the previous variants, which means previously, one person can infect 2 to 3 people, whereas now, we’re seeing 4 to 6 people infected. And, according to some studies, this Delta variant is also associated with a higher hospitalization rate in those who are unvaccinated. This variant may also double your risk for death if unvaccinated as well.” Lambda and Mu are other variants being closely monitored by scientists and infectious disease doctors like those at ID Care. Both were identified in South America and have slowly crept into the US, with low levels in states like Texas, Florida, and Arizona. While there is only early data on these variants, findings will be reported once more conclusive. But Delta still poses the most significant health risk across the US at this time. In terms of NJ communities, the Delta variant still poses the most risk at around 90% of cases statewide and 98% in North Jersey. “The NJ Department of Health (NJDOH) sequences samples from a random section of New Jersey weekly, and we get an idea of what variants are circulating. And right now, we’re seeing a whole lot of Delta,” reveals Dr. Markou. What is a Breakthrough Infection? Current COVID-19 vaccines do protect people against severe disease and death; however, no vaccine is 100% effective at preventing illness, especially with the higher viral load and contagious nature of the Delta variant. So, breakthrough COVID-19 cases are to be expected, especially given the degree of the virus that’s circulating. A breakthrough infection is classified as a fully vaccinated individual who contracts COVID-19. Dr. Markou notes that most breakthrough infections usually present with mild symptoms or are asymptomatic among the fully vaccinated. That’s because your body has developed enough antibodies to protect you from severe disease. However, this is not the case for those unvaccinated as they are hit hardest by the disease and comprise most of the hospitalizations. “Think of the vaccine as a full suit of body armor,” he says. “Now you’re placed in a war zone. You’ll likely be hit by a bullet, however, your body armor will either deflect it, or you’ll have a very minor injury. If you’re unvaccinated, or you have no body armor, you’re more likely to be hit much harder.” You can refer to the CDC for more information on breakthrough infections after being vaccinated. What is the Status of FDA Approval for COVID-19 Vaccines? There are three COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States; Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson. On August 23, 2021, only the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was granted full FDA approval for individuals 16 and older but is currently available for children 12 -15 under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The other two vaccines have submitted their data and are pending full FDA approval while still authorized for individuals 18 and over under EUA guidelines. What is the Difference between EUA and FDA Approval for Vaccines? When it became evident last year that COVID-19 was a highly infectious and life-threatening disease, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) worked closely with scientists and vaccine manufacturers to gather and interpret data on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines. Getting Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) is a lengthy, highly scientific process that requires a significant amount of clinical trial data for risk/benefit evaluation. The purpose of EUA is to provide more timely access to drugs, diagnostic tests, or other critical medical products in times of public health emergencies when no other adequate options are available. Dr. Markou explains, “Full FDA approval is a long and more arduous process that reviews even more scientific data over a longer duration for the quality, safety, and effectiveness of a medical product. This is a complicated process and requires more time to review all the clinical data from studies done in 2020 and 2021. However, EUA authorization is also a very rigorous scientific process to validate the quality, safety and effectiveness of the vaccines made available to protect the lives of millions of people”. How do the Vaccines Impact Pediatric Cases? Children typically have more mild illness than adults with COVID-19, but studies show that pediatric cases have increased since Delta emerged. “The public health aspect of this cannot be overlooked,” says Dr. Markou. “If you ignore a large section of the population, then you’re giving this virus an open playground to mutate and develop more variants. Then you’re back to square one.” The vaccine itself, including the dosage amount, is the same for everyone. Vaccination is estimated to have saved 15,000 cases of COVID-19, 400 hospitalizations, and 3 deaths in the pediatric population. The science is clear and shows that the benefits of vaccination among young people far outweigh any risks. Proactive preventive measures are key as children are back in school, socializing, attending events, and participating in sports – all of which can perpetuate spread of the virus. Vaccination for those 12 and older is yet another safety measure to protect children against this contagious virus. Will a COVID-19 Vaccine Be Required Annually? COVID-19 has likely become endemic, meaning it will be with us forever, like the flu. So, the best way to mitigate its impact is through vaccination which is expected (not confirmed) to be required annually. As with other vaccines, there will be a worldwide surveillance of the most prevalent and troubling variants out there, deploying an annual vaccine that targets these to mitigate the impact of the virus. What is Recommended Timing Between a COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine? Both COVID-19 and flu vaccines are easily accessible in the US and strongly recommended by ID Care infectious disease experts. Most large retail pharmacies administer COVID-19 as well as flu vaccines. Dr. Markou says, “Individuals can and should get both vaccines, but we recommend spacing them out two weeks apart, getting the COVID-19 vaccine first because COVID-19 is far more deadly than the flu.” What are the Latest Guidelines on Vaccine Boosters? While the Delta variant continues to spread, data suggests that vaccine immunity begins to wane over time. Although fully vaccinated individuals are still largely protected from severe illness and hospitalization, those who do not receive an additional dose – also known as a booster – are at higher risk for a breakthrough infection. A booster will serve to “jump-start” the immune system and provide additional protection. However, as of late September 2021, the FDA has not yet approved the additional dose or vaccine booster for widespread use among the general public. While decisions are subject to change daily, FDA eligibility recommendations have now been issued for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, pending a CDC advisory board vote. While trial data and real-world evidence are being studied, additional dose authorizations are pending for both J&J (single-shot) and Moderna (two-dose) vaccines. For the two-dose Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the FDA has authorized a third dose for the following eligible populations who had their last shot at least 6 months prior: People 65 and older Adults 18-64 at risk for severe COVID-19 illness or complications, including smokers, those pregnant, or immunocompromised, as well as people who are overweight/obese, diabetic, have high blood pressure, substance abusers, transplant recipients, cancer patients, and those with other chronic medical conditions. Adults 18-64 who have high job-related risk, like healthcare workers, teachers, prison workers, etc. ID Care’s Role in Infection Prevention and Fighting COVID-19 As the largest infectious disease practice in New Jersey and on the East Coast, ID experts have been heavily involved in working with healthcare organizations as well as caring for patients throughout this pandemic. ID Care doctors have been on the frontlines, treating over 25% of hospitalized COVID-19 cases in New Jersey. ID Care physicians are also involved in orchestrating policies that protect communities at the state and local levels. And many ID Care physicians sit on hospital boards to drive policy and programs for vital infection prevention and control. ID Care continues to encourage everyone to get vaccinated to protect the New Jersey communities it serves. If you have questions regarding COVID-19 variants, vaccines, or the third dose, please give us a call at 908-281-0221 or visit idcare.com.