Eric writes:
Dear Dr. Griffin,
I recently heard an eminent epidemiologist talk about how even Norovirus is spread heavily via respiratory transmission and it got me wondering: What does the research say about transmission via surfaces for most of the viruses common during the winter months? Is it theoretical or proven? It seems clear that SARS-CoV-2 is passed overwhelmingly and perhaps exclusively via respiratory pathways, and the flu as well as the common cold have intriguing studies pointing to strong transmission via that pathway as well. Is it possible the medical establishment’s appropriate focus on hand hygiene for bacterial and other contamination mitigation has contributed to confusion around the primary vector for most of seasonal respiratory pathogens? Thank you.
Eric
Marianne writes:
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year, Daniel!
Thank you for all you do to keep us informed and safe, around the world.
My grand-baby and her parents are recovering from Covid, but not in time for a Christmas visit. What is the protocol for being cleared to have elders visit? Adults had paxlovid and had been vaccinated.
Marianne
Brian writes:
Thank you for all your valuable information on TWIV. Working in a busy ED I had a patient come in with seizure like symptoms. This patient was recently prescribed paxlovid and was on day 2 of their treatment. This patient had also ingested several THC gummies and then several hours later had seizure like symptoms. Any literature or guidance for this interaction ?
Thank you for your advice
Regards
Brian Jenkinson RN
Louise writes:
Louise, family doctor from suburban Philadelphia asks how soon can one give a second dose of paxlovid. The patient took it in August and then had a second infection less than three months later. Her insurance said they would not pay for Paxlovid twice in fewer than 180 days. Any comments on the need to take it again and the payment. Thanks.
J writes:
Hi Dr. Griffin,
I would appreciate it if you would address any research that does or does not support the use of these “anti-covid” nasal sprays I’ve seen on the market. Nitric oxide is cited as the active ingredient. I know some folks who have come to rely on these as their covid precautions in crowded, higher-risk situations like cruises and mass transit.
If there is evidence that this stuff works, I am very interested in getting some, but it sounds too good to be true. I also realize that it’s possible that, in addition to being ineffective against SARS-CoV-2, they may cause harm. If you can point your listeners to reputable data about these, it would be helpful.
Thank you!
J