Alice writes:
Hi Dr. Griffin,
I found your podcast really interesting and it raised 2 questions for me:
I am 79 and reasonably healthy (with SVT). I had a bivalent booster in October ’22 which I think was my 5th shot and wonder whether I should have another bivalent now or wait until the fall for the potentially new booster.
My related question is: do you think we have some protection now even tho the last booster was in October? I think you told someone that if they had 3 shots they are pretty well protected but not sure?
Thanks so much for your help. It seems that half the docs say get one now and the other half say wait until the fall.
Alice
Susan writes:
Hi,
A man who is physically fit and just turning 70 went into the hospital at the end of last week with atrial fibrillation, after having exerted himself riding a bicycle in the heat and humidity. There is a family history of heart problems. He was treated with Cardizem, and a beta-blocker, and put on Eliquis. After scans, etc., finally treated with electric shock therapy on Monday. Went home Tuesday and tested for COVID-19, which was positive. Called the cardiologist and was told to continue the existing medicines (not sure of the complete list), and not add Paxlovid. In view of the fact that the electric shock treatment can be followed by blood clots being thrown out of the heart, is this the right path?
COVID is not over, and his wife also tested positive but maybe hopefully just because of exposure.
Thank you.
Susan S.
Amy writes:
Hello Daniel and Vincent!
My dad is still experiencing brain fog and fatigue after acquiring his 2nd COVID infection about 3+ months ago.
I encouraged him to go to a clinic that specializes in long COVID in his area, and he wasn’t satisfied that they just told him his blood work indicated that he has a lot of inflammation in his body.
He wants to do this commercial long haulers test that seems pretty sketchy to me.
https://www.covidlonghaulers.com/north-america/home
I’m not aware of a validated long COVID test, and I have a feeling they just want to sell him on the “treatment” which I don’t fully understand even after perusing their website.
What do you think of these types of tests? Are they legit?
Separately, a neighbor takes Hyaluronic acid for inflammation reduction – is that something that could be effective for long COVID?
Many thanks!
Amy
Frances writes:
I received the original polio vaccine (3 injections) back in the 50’s. Since I am a Registered nurse, Over the years I received boosters with the oral medication. Last booster was over ten years ago. Now, I am 76 yrs old and work Perdiem infusing homecare patients. Should I receive another booster? If yes, the injection or oral vaccine?
Thank you
Frances Wolfson RN BSN