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76.  Jun. 2, 2022.  COVID-19: Variants on the Rise, Few Following CDC Recommendations.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for stronger messaging from the CDC. Presently we still have 100,000 cases per day, 300 deaths and the risks of Long COVID with chronic heart and cognitive problems is becoming an all-too-common problem. N95 masks should be worn in indoor public settings. N95 masking by all will decrease viral spread to a much greater extent than one way masking. It is most important for the asymptomatic carrier to wear a N95 mask so as not to contaminate the environment. Others wearing a mask can still be exposed with viral entry through their eyes. Businesses need to adapt to the new normal with increasing their ventilation, providing curbside pickup and setting aside morning hours for high-risk individuals where universal masking is enforced. Outside activities are less risky, but in crowded venues, large droplet spread can still occur if one is within 6 feet of others. Large droplets do not dissipate and float away when one is outdoors. Jeff Santos Show. June 2, 2022. https://youtu.be/CG8jX021x2s  
 
75.  Mar. 31, 2022.  COVID-19: Misinformation, Masks, Vaccines and Long COVID with BA.2 Looming
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need to aggressively combat misinformation regarding masks and vaccinations. With the looming BA.2 variant the use of N-95 masks are imperative. In addition, we more than ever must transform our healthcare system to provide access to all individuals. COVID-19 is here to stay and even those who survive may deal with symptoms of Long COVID for years to come. Jeff Santos Show. Mar. 31, 2022. https://youtu.be/cz55keJX2QE 
  
74.  Mar. 17, 2022.   COVID-19: Cases Surge in Europe; The USA Needs More Efficient Vaccine Development.
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the emerging BA.2 pandemic wave and the threat to the United States. Boosters are needed to help prevent severe infections and Long COVID. A reformulated vaccine for the BA.2 variant is needed along with more efficient and speedier vaccine development. Universal healthcare was discussed and the importance of it during a pandemic since we all live in the same fishbowl. With the war in Ukraine raging, we must also keep our counter measures to SARS-CoV-2 . Disinformation is one of the main impediments in stopping the pandemic. Vaccine hesitancy is not only prevalent in the United States but also in foreign countries. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/FQ-T7Pllgqw
 
Timeline:
1:35 SARS-CoV-2 is Surging in Europe.
5:20 Need for Boosters Especially to Prevent Long COVID-19.
8:18 Need Faster And Less Bureaucratic Vaccine Development.
11:18 War in Ukraine is Causing Less Focus on the Pandemic and May Inhibit Reporting of COVID-19.
12:10 Need for Universal Healthcare to Fight Pandemics.
16:16 We All Live in the Same Fishbowl. We Need to Treat and Stop Infectious Disease in Everyone. Universal Healthcare, Regardless of the Type Needs to Be Embraced by All.
18:17 Vaccine Hesitancy Overseas. Many Countries Will Not Accept Vaccinated Chickens for Consumption.   
      
73.  Mar. 3, 2022.  COVID-19: Vaccine Rapidly Waning in Young Children, Droplet Spread Outdoors & Deer Are a Viral Host
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rapid waning of vaccine efficacy in 5 to 11 year old children after just 6 weeks. The virus also appears to have found a host in white tail deer and a highly mutated virus has spread from deer to a human. The evolution and spread of the virus in deer underscores the ability for this virus to spread outdoors. We need to both slow down the spread of the virus and more rapidly develop vaccines for new variants. With vaccines waning and new immune escape variants in Europe, it may be too early to abandon public health strategies. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/s4FBeoCRDkA   
  
72.  Feb. 17, 2022.  COVID-19: Booster Efficacy Waning. Can We Vaccinate the World?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm:  With the Stealth Omicron letting up on public health strategies when rates are high, but falling, makes little sense. The vaccines are waning and adults should obtain a booster after 5 months from their second dose. This also includes children who are over the age of 12 and received a Pfizer/BioNTech Vaccine. Boosters may only give 4 months of good protection for visits to the ER and Urgent Treatment centers. However, if you had a previous infection and obtained a booster, data indicates you will become superimmune and have protection for greater than a year. Currently, the U.S. Army is working on a pan-coronavirus vaccine which hopefully will work on all of the variants. Vaccines and boosters are a layer of armor. If you obtain one, you still need to follow public health advice. If you increase risky behavior more than the protection afforded by the vaccine you may actually increase your chances of obtaining an infection. Jeff Santos Show.  Feb. 17, 2022 https://youtu.be/4OlXNCtYU9w   
   
71.  Jan. 22, 2022.  COVID-19: Free Homes Tests & Masks, Vaccines are Waning
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the United States' free home test and N95 mask programs. Apparently, unlike private insurance, Medicare will not pay for the purchase of these tests. Omicron is causing significant illnesses in Kentucky with a rise in hospitalizations and ICU admissions along with patients needing ventilation. Monoclonal antibodies and viral therapeutics are in short supply. We need to continue following public health strategies in all venues, including schools. Jeff Santos Show. Jan. 21, 2022. https://youtu.be/cpgv4U8SYLQ
   
 70.  Dec. 2, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Surging & Omicron - Impact in Schools & Businesses   
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Melissa Tomlinson from Bad A** Teachers discuss the problems with opening schools and how in-person classes are even more important with the increase in psychological symptoms which students are developing. The need for society to become fully vaccinated with boosters and to follow public health advice was stressed. The Omicron Variant was briefly discussed and problems with vaccine distribution and hesitancy in third world nations making the prevention of new variants even more difficult.  Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/5UxVuOy0aAA   
  
69.  Sept. 23, 2021. COVID-19: Pfizer Vaccines -- CDC Limits Booster, Director Disagrees.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Sept. 23, CDC ACIP Committee Meeting which voted to limit boosters, not recommending them for individuals at high risk of occupational exposure. Concerns over the need for more data and not considering the devastating effects of Long COVID appeared to sway some of the members. We are in the middle of a major pandemic and we need to make immediate decisions on the preponderance of data. Not making a decision is also a decision. In addition, the United States has a failing healthcare system. We are dependent upon Israel and the United Kingdom for data and strategies. We need more availability of COVID-19 tests, including home testing. In addition, we need universal access to our healthcare system. Jeff Santos Show. (21:49) Sept. 27, 2021. https://youtu.be/y81_dwfoe1I   
  
68.  Sept. 17, 2021.  COVID-19: FDA Votes Down Boosters for All
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the FDA's recent decision on not to give boosters to everyone who has had the Pfizer Vaccine. In the next few hours, Dr. Kavanagh expects the FDA to authorize boosters for those above the age of 65 but the FDA needs to go further than this. The FDA inaction appears to be based on the desire to want more data. However, during a pandemic one needs to use the best data available and make a judgement, because inaction is also an action. Jeff Santos Show. Sept. 18th, 2021. (20:53). https://youtu.be/Psfnxpm5MtE   
  
 67.  Sept. 10, 2021. COVID-19: Too Little Too Late - We need a more aggressive plan.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent plan by President Biden which mandates vaccinations of all employees or weekly testing. However, he stresses a layered approach is needed. Individuals including one of the callers, can be vaccinated and still become extremely sick and even spread COVID-19. To stop the virus all workers should be vaccinated, wear masks and undergo twice weekly testing. Questions regarding Dr. Fauci were also answered and how multiple agencies in the Federal Government need to be performing at a higher level than they are. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/fnLKtRj8pD4
  

66.  Sept. 2, 2021.  COVID-19: The Urgent Need for a Safe Workplace
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the urgent need to transform schools and workplaces into safe places to work. We need to adopt the use of medical grade, KN95 or N95 masks. Dr. Kavanagh stresses the adverse impact that the government's bureaucracy has had on decision making and the need to streamline the process. A decision regarding the approval of a childhood vaccine is needed as soon as possible. Schools need to upgrade their COVID-19 preventions, including twice weekly testing, providing medical quality masks to students, and those who can need to be vaccinated. The psychological impact of children wearing masks pales in comparison to that of the knowledge they may be responsible for infecting a classmate or responsible of the death of a caregiver. So far 120,000 caregivers have been lost to COVID-19. Other variants, possibly even evading the vaccines are on the horizon. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/N7xjH3OhgS4   
  
65.  Aug. 26, 2021.  COVID-19: The VA's 4th Mission - To Aid the US in Pandemic Response
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses ways the VA's fourth mission could aid the entire United States in its pandemic response. In addition, vaccine breakthrough cases do not appear to be uncommon, with one caller having almost all members of his family experiencing them with the Delta Variant. Breakthrough cases can be associated with Long COVID, but have a lower incidence of hospitalizations and rarely result in admission to the ICU or death. Finally, the CDC needs to track and genetically sequence all breakthrough infections so we can detect waning vaccine immunity and the emergence of new variants. Jeff Santos Show.  (20:53). https://youtu.be/2cfVMwf3Utw   
 
64.  Aug. 19, 2021.  COVID-19: Placing Children on The Pandemic's Front Line
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the risks of opening schools during the height of the Delta Pandemic. 20,000 students are quarantined in Mississippi. Almost 100,000 children contracted COVID-19 over a one week period and there is a 1% rate of hospitalizations. There is a definite need to fast track FDA authorization of vaccines in the below 12 year old population. Adults who have been vaccinated with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine may be at risk for waning immunity. Data from Israel found overall that the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine was less than 50% effective in preventing infections with the Delta Variant. The New York Times found that 12% to 24% of COVID-19 related hospitalizations were breakthrough infections. All need to be vaccinated and wear an N95 mask along with receiving a booster when one is available. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/lUCLy_rbiXc   
    
63.  Aug. 13, 2021.  COVID-19: Gov. Dukakis Discusses Infrastructure and Opening of Schools
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Governor Dukakis discuss infrastructure upgrades (including ventilation systems) which are needed to open schools safer. Also discussed are the importance of testing everyone in schools (teachers and students) twice weekly and using N95 masks to help prevent infection with the Delta Variant All who can need to become vaccinated. Although, those vaccinated may still develop breakthrough infections, the vaccines are very good in preventing deaths and hospitalizations. Jeff Santos Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-RadioShows/20210813-JeffSantos.htm    https://youtu.be/n2aAU5svhOs   
  
62. Aug. 13, 2021. COVID-19: The Delta Variant Is Here
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for decisive government action to confront the Delta Variant. Routine, periodic testing in businesses and schools has not been implemented. There is too much emphasis on cotton/cloth masks and the protection with vaccinations when N95s or KN95s are needed, and vaccine breakthrough infections are common. One caller describes his fully vaccinated family with the Moderna Vaccine where 3 out of 4 have become sick with COVID-19. He describes how the vaccine keeps you out of the hospital and from dying, but those not hospitalized can develop long COVID. He has a friend with an enlarged heart and knows two children with long-term effects from this infection. People who he knows that did not get the vaccine have died or are hospitalized with long-term chronic breathing problems. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/kQp0J40-iU4
     
61. July 31, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Response Failure Placed Us In Peril
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the failure in our nation's response to the Delta Variant. We need firm and transformative leadership. We must stop trying to patch our society together for 1 or 2 weeks until a surge is over. It is not going to work. How many surges do we have to endure before we enact substantial changes in our way of life and our society's infrastructure? The past administration left the response strategies up to the localities. This caused a patchwork of responses and enabled the virus to spread. The same result will probably occur with this administration. We need a coordinated national strategy which does not have geographic exceptions. Jeff Santos Show.  .  https://youtu.be/y-ejy3uH2FA   
 
60.  July 22, 2021.  COVID-19: Is The Federal Government Doing Its Job ?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the spiking cases caused by the Delta Variant. Similar to the last administration, there has been a lack of national coordination and a uniform policy. It is imperative that all, even vaccinated persons, wear N-95 or a high quality mask in indoor settings. The WHO, American Academy of Pediatrics along with a growing number of municipalities have mandated that all, even vaccinated individuals, wear masks. Now with states having 4 to 5 coronavirus surges, it is unlikely herd immunity is a viable strategy, the virus just mutates and reinfects. Both public health strategies and vaccines are needed.  Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/cr-6z0DWRCU  
  
59.  July 15, 2021.  COVID-19: Preparation for the Delta Variant 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the surging Delta Variant. Preparation in schools should include vaccinations, increasing ventilation along with universal masking and social distancing. Most business will need to increase their building's ventilation along with air sanitization and requiring universal masking. Required vaccinations of healthcare workers and vaccine passports for the general public should also be enacted. Jeff Santos Show. (20:37). https://youtu.be/1LkgUJW-z0o       
  
58.  July 15, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Misinformation. Herb Boyd Discusses Vaccine Hesitance in the Black Population.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine hesitancy with renown author and activist Herb Boyd. The COVID-19 pandemic is a worldwide problem and will require a worldwide solution. The virus is endemic it is also in animals and pets. We need to focus on long term solutions, including infrastructure changes in schools along with vaccinations. It is imperative to slow down the viral spread and to stop the mutations. Vaccine misinformation is a major impediment to fully vaccinating our population and misinformation is rampant in the black population. Conspiracy theories abound most predicated on a nefarious intent on the part of government. A worldwide perspective can help dispel these theories. If you do not trust the FDA, look at the European Union, United Kingdom or Singapore. Presentations from world renown infection disease experts from other countries can be viewed at https://healthconference.org and they can serve as a new frame of reference for those who are afraid to become vaccinated. Jeff Santos Show. (8:46) https://youtu.be/pCvPLfUIKvE   
 
58.  July 1, 2021.  COVID-19: USA Sleeping As The Delta Variant Is Spreading.  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Delta Variant and how it is rapidly spreading in the United States. Reestablishment of public health strategies is advisable. Universal masking indoors, even for those vaccinated should be undertaken. The mRNA vaccines are effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths but infections and the risks of long COVID can still occur. Currently the WHO recommends universal masking (including those vaccinated), the CDC does not. The United Kingdom is currently having a large spike in cases with increase in hospitalizations. The United Kingdom has delayed full reopening. Jeff Santos Show. (21:19)  https://youtu.be/644cimbud18   
  
57.  June 17, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Variant - Are we prepared?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers imposed to the unvaccinated segments of our society by the fast spreading Delta Variant. All, especially healthcare workers, should be vaccinated. Mandatory vaccinations for healthcare workers need to be imposed. The mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are highly effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths, but only if both doses are taken. However, they may not prevent infections or mild to moderate disease. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/uxNlrwE8KHw
   
56.  May 22, 2021. COVID-19: CDC New Requirements and Schools Reopening
 Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Melissa Tomlinson from Bad A** Teachers discuss the school reopenings in light of the new CDC requirements and the continued necessity for expanded vaccinations. Jeff Santos Show. May 13, 2021.  (19:05)  https://youtu.be/Caa1F9M1LWY   
  
55.  May 6, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccination Rates Are Declining
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for everyone who is able to become vaccinated. Vaccinations are a key component to opening schools and soon school age children from 12 to 18 years of age will be able to receive the vaccine. In addition, schools should enforce masking, social distancing and increase indoor air exchanges and air quality. Vaccine hesitancy is too high in medical personnel, front line workers and our armed services. To achieve true herd immunity we need to control the virus throughout the world, making vaccines available to third world countries. Jeff Santos Show. May 6, 2021. https://youtu.be/Td7ainKTN7Q   
  
54.  Apr. 28, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Underutilization
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the underutilization of vaccines. The FDA needs to formally approve (as opposed to authorize - EUA) the vaccines along with expanding their utilization in schools. Vaccine research in young children needs to be expedited so proper dosage can be determined. In addition, all healthcare workers, especially those working with the elderly need to be vaccinated. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/JC9TnvL4OGk   
 
53.  Apr. 22, 2021.  COVID-19: Long Haulers Syndrome
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the risks of Long Haulers Syndrome and COVID-19. Rates are stable but to drive COVID-19 infections lower we all must become vaccinated. It is imperative for healthcare workers to become vaccinated. Buildings need to upgrade their ventilation systems to reduce aerosol spread of the virus. Even if you are vaccinated you should still wear a mask since vaccinated individuals can still become infected and spread of the variants are still possible. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/R6FxodJ2isY    
  
52.  2021, Apr. 17.  COVID-19: Dangers of Antivaxxors & School Sports
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for vaccinations. Also discussed is the negative impact of pausing the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, and that the extremely rare serious events seen in the J & J vaccine are far outweighed by the vaccines ability to prevent COVID-19 and lessen disease with the South African Variant. Currently, 40% of the United States Marine Corps. are opting out of vaccinations. The time between vaccine doses should not be changed, since both doses will be required with the emerging variants. Finally, we need to continue to follow public health advice. School sports, especially high school, are very problematic. Jeff Santos Show. April. 15, 2021. (20:31). https://youtu.be/LTfDdExqIAU  
 
51.  2021, Apr. 8. COVID-19: The Need For Universal Healthcare
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Wendell Potter discusses how the pandemic has underscored the need for Universal Healthcare. Jeff Santos Show. Apr. 8, 2021. (21:59) https://youtu.be/JeyEYZzxxqA
  
50.  2021, Apr. 21.  COVID-19: Variants Looming - School and Nursing Home Guidelines Relaxing
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Melissa Tomlinson from Bad A** Teachers discuss the need for stronger regulations and action from the Federal Government regarding recommendations for the prevention of COVID-19 in schools and nursing homes. Vaccinations, Variants, Aerosolization and Masks are discussed. We need to support education and the safety of our students. Restrictions should not be relaxed especially when we are dealing with our children. Jeff Santos Show. (18:15)  https://youtu.be/TzWGWTEF0zY  
  
49.  2021, Mar. 18.  COVID-19: Declaring Victory Too Soon
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for not solely relying on vaccinations to open the economy. With the fast spreading variants looming in the near future, we also need to rely on public health measures designed to counteract an aerosolized virus. This includes N-95 masks and attention to indoor air filtration and sanitization. All frontline workers deserve better protections. Jeff Santos Show. (14:30) https://youtu.be/Mm9INXa6a7Y   
    
48.  2021, Mar. 11.  COVID-19: Fully Opening in the Age of Variants
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers of opening too soon with viral case rates too high in our communities. Issues surrounding spring break, sporting events and nursing homes are discussed along with the increased dangers posed by the variants. In addition, strategies such as traval bans between countries and states are debated. Jeff Santos Show. (22:05)  https://youtu.be/1Sh7eSWM4hA
   
47.  2021, Mar. 5.  COVID-19: Texas Opening, UK Variants Invading
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the unwise decision of some Governors to remove the mask mandate and fully open their state. The impact of the UK variant on vaccines and its higher lethality and ability to spread was explained. Presently, Florida has the highest incidence of the UK Variant. Jeff Santos Show. (12:05) https://youtu.be/qcdRLYkR27M  
 
46.  2021, Feb. 26:  COVID-19: Vaccines, Variants & Opening The Economy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of aerosolization and and the implications they have on vaccines, opening schools and the economy. In addition, the numerous viral variants and the impact the difficulties they create on preventing spread makes safely opening schools and indoor businesses difficult. Very problematic are indoor sporting events. To open schools safely we need robust testing, social distancing, contact tracing and an increase in complete air exchanges and air sanitization. In addition, this pandemic has underscored the need for us to aid the pandemic response in other nations so we can stop the spread of variants before they reach our shores. Finally, universal health care is an imperative, since an uninsured patient is too often an untreated patient who can spread the disease to the entire community. Jeff Santos Show. (22:36)  https://youtu.be/6fMKzOWIwOc  
     
45.  2021, Feb 18:  COVID-19: Is the Messaging Clear on When to Reopen Schools?
 Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the guidance regarding reopening of schools. Guidance appears to be made around droplet precautions when there is significant evidence that a significant amount of spread is caused by aerosols. Double masking is also discussed and stressing the second mask is primarily to obtain a better fit of the first mask, along with increasing filtration. Specific criteria for opening of schools is also discussed (masking, podding, testing, contact tracing and improved ventilation). Jeff Santos Show. (20:42)   https://youtu.be/GJeSQ4mHlhc
      
44.  2021, Feb. 16:  COVID-19: Opening of Schools
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Melissa Tomlinson from Bad A** Teachers discuss when it is safe to open schools. Topics include upgrading school infrastructure with better ventilation and air sanitization along with the use of masks social distancing and smaller class sizes. In addition, the topic of conflicts-of-interest and bias in healthcare policy formulation was discussed. Jeff Santos. (27:23)  https://youtu.be/MtDMCsz2Tk0
     
43.  2021, Feb. 4:  COVID-19: Messaging By Our Political Leaders & Opening Schools
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the mismessaging of our political leaders regarding the safety of sports, the Superbowl, and opening of schools. Schools should be opened when all are wearing masks plus social distancing along with increasing ventilation and air sanitization. Finally, community spread needs to be much lower. If schools are twice as safe as the community but community spread is 5 to 10 times too much, then opening schools is problematic. If the population has Superbowl parties, then we will have a Superbowl superspreader event. With our current variants, this may cause another large spike. We need to transform our economy and adjust our behavior to live safely with this pandemic. Jeff Santos Show. Feb. 4, 2021. (22:52) https://youtu.be/h4qiS7g2XSw   
  
42.  2021, Jan. 28:  COVID-19: Opening Schools, New Vaccines and Problematic Variants.
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the conditions to open schools including: Testing, social distancing, use of masks and increase in building airflow and sanitization. Even more concerning are the high rates of community COVID-19 in the United States. The situation may even worsen by the South African and Brazilian strains which have been reported in the United States. These strains are more infectious and the current vaccines may be less effective. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/-kF41qMA2c8  
 
 41.  2021, Jan. 23:  COVID-19: School Safety and Opening Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the opening of schools along with the need for better PPE, including N95 masks, expanded testing, vaccinations and improvement in air sanitation and complete air exchanges. Guest Melissa Tomlinson of Bada** Teachers Association. Jeff Santos Show. Jan. 21, 2021. https://youtu.be/b1zK3cIWpiY  
  
40.  2021, Jan. 23:  COVID-19: Social Disparities
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses with Herb Boyd (Author,  Black Detroit: A People's History of Self-Determination) COVID-19 social disparities with frontline workers along with vaccine hesitancy in the black population. A major point made was even if there was a larger demand for vaccines, they are not available to the vast majority of those who wish to obtain them. Access to healthcare further augments this problem. Jeff Santos Show.  (17:49) https://youtu.be/isphixSuZFo  
  
39.  2021, Dec. 14:  COVID-19: Viral Mutations and the Importance of Vaccination
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for everyone to receive a vaccine and also still follow public health guidance of wearing a mask and perform social distancing. There are concerns that someone who receives the vaccine may still spread the virus if they become infected. In addition, spreading the virus will increase the chance of viral mutation. Of concern is the South African variant which is felt to be able to defeat the monoclonal antibody medications and possibly make the vaccine less effective. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/pBk4vz1WCW8  
 
38.  2020, Dec 17:  COVID-19: Past Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders on the Need to Get Vaccinated.
 Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm, and past Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders discusses the need for the public to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and the hesitancy in the United States' black population. An African-American who was very hesitant to take the vaccine called in and retorts were given. To stop the spread of this virus, it is imperative that a large portion of the United States' population receives the vaccine. Jeff Santos Show. Dec. 19, 2020.  https://youtu.be/O_3wY7bplnM   
   
37.  2020, Dec. 10:  COVID-19: Vaccines, Schools and COVID Denial
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new vaccines along with the roadblocks and importance of opening schools. One of the greatest impediments into confronting this epidemic is COVID-19 denial and the acceptance of public health advice. Jeff Santos Sow. https://youtu.be/WCS-cFUApmY  
  
36.  2020, Dec. 3:  COVID-19: Schools - Churches -Bars
 Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the New York City policy of having bars and restaurants open but wanting to close schools. Pressure from the public and a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling have resulted in schools being opened, rather than the closure of other high-risk venues. Also, discussed are the risks of indoor church services and the need for a uniform national strategy. Jeff Santos Show. Dec. 3, 2020. https://youtu.be/KxicNPZkbR4   
  
35.  2020, Nov. 24:  COVID-19: Opening of Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the opening of schools and the importance of not overrunning our healthcare systems. A coherent national strategy is needed and any places of congregation are problematic. The Thanksgiving Holiday is also problematic and travel within and between states should be kept to a minimum. Jeff Santos Show. Nov. 24, 2020.   https://youtu.be/EdRljkQBK94    
  
34.  2020, Nov. 19:  COVID-19: School Closings
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the closing of schools and what needs to be done for reopening, including better ventilation and sanitation of air, PPE, pool testing of students and teachers. In addition, we need to invoke the Defense Production Act to produce needed PPE and testing supplies. We need better and consistent messaging from our leaders along with everyone following public health advice. Travel and the upcoming holidays are especially problematic. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/9vL0Q1nOkLQ 

33.  2020, Nov. 12: COVID-19: Will a Shut Down Improve Anything?
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the difficulties in shutting down the economy with a shelter in place order. We no longer have adequate reserves and the public has still not bought into public health measures. Thus, reopening after a closure could well cause the virus to re-surge. Of utmost importance is public acceptance of public health strategies so once viral levels are suppressed, they can be kept low with case tracking. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/YkYU2Gt3HAE   
 
32.  2020, Nov. 5:  COVID-19: Post Election Strategies - The Need For A National Strategy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses post-election strategies to control COVID-19 along with the need for uniform messaging. Getting community involvement for the control of COVID-19 is of utmost importance and involvement of community organizations such as churches is discussed. Jeff Santos Show. https://youtu.be/-J5E8l3un68   
 
31. 2020, Oct. 29:  COVID-19: Are Superspreader Rallies A Self Defeating Strategy?
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the illogical strategy of holding multiple potential superspreader events which risk driving the pandemic, making it harder to vote on election day. The use of masks and social distancing is imperative or our healthcare system will be overrun and COVID-19 fatality rates will rise. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/RHiF6JqUPhI   
  
30. 2020, Oct. 15:  COVID-19: The False Narrative of Herd Immunity
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Great Barrington Declaration's false narrative of herd immunity. He also discuses the importance of seeing your physician, even during COVID-19, and a new therapy on the horizon. Jeff Santos Show. Oct. 15, 2020.  https://youtu.be/YFWBBZDwa5U  
    
29. 2020, Oct 8:  COVID-19: White House Precautions & Public Acceptance of Health Guidance
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discussed inadequate COVID-19 prevention strategies at the White House, including the sole reliance on rapid testing, a test known for high false negative rates. In addition, the use of exhalation valves on N95 masks by security personnel should not be used in a pandemic. The lack of a coherent uniform message has resulted in the public not accepting public health guidance which is further fueling the pandemic. Finally, the necessity of receiving a flu vaccine was discussed. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/1MrtkddBVR4
     
28. 2020, Oct. 2: COVID-19: President Trump Tests Positive
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of President Trumps positive COVID-19 test. The importance of wearing masks and social distancing are stressed along with the dangers of large outdoor gatherings with loud vocalization which can aerosolize the virus. Jeff Santos Show.
https://youtu.be/ts7kqtABk18   
    
27. 2020, Oct. 1:  COVID-19: The White House's Coronavirus Message
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of masks and not interfering with the CDC and scientists' advice. Currently, cases in the United States are rising and in Wisconsin there are political rallies planning to be held. CDC's guidelines on Halloween are discussed, along with what they mean for other comparable activities. The importance of aerosolization along with making schools safer with healthy buildings and implementing public health protocols of wearing masks and social distancing. If we can do this and much more for professional sports, we should do the same for our children. Jeff Santos Show. (23:01) https://youtu.be/uRQk1I24QGU
 
26. 2020, Sept 24:  COVID-19: -120 F Vaccine -- Are You Kidding ??
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the requirements for opening schools and how the hopes on the Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine may have been misplaced. The requirement to store at dry ice temperatures from manufacturing to injection makes the vaccine problematic and will probably create access barriers in disparate populations. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/uAAtU7x6PvQ    
   
25. 2020, Sept 17:  COVID-19: Are Vaccines Safe?
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccines along with issues of their safety and effectiveness. In addition, the safety of schools along with the wisdom of restarting school and college contact sports is discussed. Jeff Santos Show. Video link  https://youtu.be/hi3j7LOYSW0   
 
24. 2020, Sept 11:  COVID-19: Opening Schools, Sports & The Bob Woodward Donald Trump Interview.
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of the Feb and March 2020 interview between Donald Trump and Bob Woodward. In addition, strategies to open schools and professional sports are discussed. Jeff Santos Show. (22:05)  https://youtu.be/atj_P24W6L8
     
23. 2020, Sept. 3:  COVID-19: Vaccine By Election Day. Is It Safe ??
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine safety and what needs to take place before any vaccine is released to the public. In addition, the need for unified consistent messaging and not following prey to misinformation is stressed. Finally, missteps which occurred in the United States initial response to the pandemic was discussed. Jeff Santos Show. Sept. 3, 2020. (21:55) https://youtu.be/Izp64yA1JbE
 
22. 2020, Aug. 27:  COVID-19: Can We Trust Our Federal Public Health Agencies?
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent changes in testing recommendations by the CDC which would not allow the identification of asymptomatic carriers and community spread. The FDA had a similar lapse with the overstatement of the efficacy of convalescent serum. Jeff Santos Show.   (21:49)  https://youtu.be/29Nyvl3n2kE 
 
21. 2020, Aug. 13:  COVID-19: Difficulties in Opening Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the difficulties in opening schools and how we need to protect our children and follow public health guidance. Infrastructure improvements are necessary along with lowering the infection rate in the community. Jeff Santos Show. Aug. 13, 2020.  https://youtu.be/fvv54LVqiCQ
 
20. 2020, Aug. 6:  COVID-19: The Logistics of Opening of Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Melissa Tomlinson from BAT teachers association discuss the logistics of opening schools on the Jeff Santos shows. Topics include the need for a revised infrastructure, social distancing, masks, along with blend programs. It was stressed that opening schools in regions with high community spread will probably not be successful. Students can still get sick, sometimes severely ill but data is showing that they may well bring the virus home to their parents and grandparents. Jeff Santos Show. Aug. 6, 2020.  https://youtu.be/mHG6fl71mcI  
   
19. 2020, July 30:  COVID-19:  Opening Schools.
 Governor Michael Dukakis, Dr. Kevin Kavanagh, Melissa Tomlinson, David Palelogous discuss the complexities of opening schools.   The need to lower community infection rates and modification of a school's infrastructure are of utmost importance.  Concerns exist over the safety of teachers along with that of parents as new research shows risks of infections from children.   Jeff Santos Show. 
https://soundcloud.com/ron-crider/73020-hr-3-gov-dukakis-dr-kavanaugh-melissa-tomlinson-david-palelogous 
https://soundcloud.com/ron-crider/73020-hr-3-gov-dukakis-dr-kavanaugh-melissa-tomlinson-david-palelogous-1 
 
18. 2020, July 16: COVID-19: Spiking Cases and School Openings
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the spiking cases in the Southern United States and the current discussion on whether or not to reopen classroom teaching. Jeff Santos Show.  (21:54)  https://youtu.be/eo8j1Rf2pCI
    
 17. 2020, July 9:  COVID-19: Mixed Messaging and Skyrocketing Rates in the United States
 Kevin Kavanagh, MD and Christine Pontus, RN discuss COVID-19 rising rates in the United States and the importance of having an appropriate infrastructure and a national strategy. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/-0hqKJksQuo
    
16. 2020, July 2, COVID-19:  COVID-19 Denial of Severity and The Fourth of July
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh, from Health Watch USAsm discusses the risks of not taking the coronavirus seriously and being cavalier during fourth of July Celebrations. In addition, States are rolling back opening and some States are reclosing indoor dining and bars. Jeff Santos Show. (22:27)  https://youtu.be/-9Mfcvf0LUM  
    
15. 2020, June 25, COVID-19: Spiking Cases and a Need for A Coordinated Response
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the spiking cases in the Southern States and the lack of a coordinated federal response. The mixed messaging is compounded by misinformation initiatives on social media spurred by adversarial governments. Death rates are falling because of better treatment in the ICU using dexamethasone, plasma, remdesivir and anticoagulation but we are finding out that those that survive a severe episode, may well have disabling medical conditions post discharge from the hospital. Jeff Santos Show.  (21:59) https://youtu.be/fwhQKhHYl4c  
 
14. 2020, June 18, COVID-19:  The Southern States Spiking, Masks not Being Used and New Treatments in the Pipeline
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for wearing masks and the lack of central consistent messaging. CONVID-19 is spiking in the Southern States. Oklahoma is seeing a major spike and an indoor political rally is planned in 2 days. New treatments consisting of vaccines, dexamethasone and an antibody infusion are in the pipeline. Jeff Santos Show.  https://youtu.be/0UY79KP6T2U
 
13. 2020, June 4. COVID-19: Demonstrations and Public Safety
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Christine Pontus from the Massachusetts Nurses Association discuss the dangers of viral spread in demonstrations and suggestions on how to keep the public safe. The need for PPE and the importance of testing is stressed. Jeff Santos Show.  (22:43)
https://youtu.be/G81qrenx598 
  
12. 2020, May 26.  COVID-19: Memorial Day Opening and Kentucky Reprehensible Demonstrations
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses safety tips when one goes to restaurants, the future of sporting events and the reprehensible demonstrations which occurred over the memorial day weekend. Jeff Santos Show. (21:10)  https://youtu.be/zS_6ek-8skc
  
11. 2020, May 21.  COVID-19: Two MNA Nurses have Died, More PPE is needed
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Christine Pontus from the Massachusetts Nurses Association discuss the tragic loss of two MNA nurses from COVID-19. The lack of adequate PPE, the need for more testing is discussed. Also, the opening of restaurants and the possibility of worsening the epidemic was discussed. Jeff Santos Show. (22:38). https://youtu.be/_V0sA5Go-Z0
 
10. 2020, May 14.  COVID-19 Should the Public Wear Masks.  Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses whether the public should wear cotton masks and tells his experience of seeing a doctor for removal of a skin cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeff Santos Show. (22:42)  https://youtu.be/aUtke4iuO9M
   
9. 2020, May 7.  The Missing CDC Guidelines on Reopening the Economy - COVID-19
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm discusses roadblocks and what is needed to reopen the economy and the 17 page missing CDC report needs to be released and used as a national template. Jeff Santos Show. (22:13)  https://youtu.be/gB0f93DmTUA
  
8. 2020, Apr. 30.  COVID-19: The Effects of Climate, Air Pollution on Infection Rates & Workers' Safety.  Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm discusses the success of controlling COVID-19 in Taiwan and South Korea along with the effects of climate and air pollution. Finally, healthcare workers' safety, compensation and an economic and healthcare safety net for the worker and their family is discussed. Jeff Santos Show. (21:35)  https://youtu.be/qSm4siZ3q6g  
 
7. 2020, Apr. 23.  The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.   Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discuss the dire consequences of states opening their economy too early and controlling COVID-19. Along with the need for a strong and consistent federal message. Food safety and keeping our food supply chain functional is also discussed, including healthcare for migrant workers who harvest a large portion of the food and preservation of the family farm.  Jeff Santos Show. (22:21) https://youtu.be/7dMKRGz3kdc 
   
6. 2020, Apr. 16.  COVID-19 Governor's Coalition & Universal Healthcare. 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of a national strategy, the regional coalitions formed by our nation's governors; and not running a lean healthcare system with small stockpiles of PPE and lack of redundancy of healthcare workers. In addition, comparisons of the performance of different countries in controlling COVID-19 is discussed in its relationship to universal healthcare. Jeff Santos Show. (22:38) https://youtu.be/c88fKXUDvPo
  
5. 2020, Apr. 9.  COVID-19 Socioeconomic Disparities & When to Open the Economy.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how socioeconomic disparities from homelessness, lack of healthcare access and poor funding of front line hospitals causes increase in fatality rates in disadvantaged populations. In addition, the case is made for a more coordinated federal response and better prioritization of resources which maximize patient and front-line workers safety (healthcare workers, food handlers and delivery services). Jeff Santos Show. (21:51) https://youtu.be/ZP9BFSW0XjE
  
4. 2020, Apr. 2. The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm talks about the Importance of the public wearing DIY masks & federal coordination. Jeff Santos Show.  (18:36) https://youtu.be/jyZD4qEvOdM  
 
3. 2020, Mar. 26.  COVID-19 Symptoms and How to Access Healthcare and Some Precautions to Take.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh discusses lean staffing, how to avoid social isolation, blood pressure medications, along with symptoms COVID-19 (coronavirus) and how to access medical care. Jeff Santos Show. (22:40) https://youtu.be/yVprVb_icxo
  
2. 2020, Mar. 21 -- COVID-19 How To Get Groceries and How to Safely Use gloves. 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of social distancing during the COVID-19 epidemic and how to safely get groceries and use gloves. In addition the importance of greater CDC funding and engagement was discussed. Jeff Santos Show (15:30). https://youtu.be/vkPWxfq6wTI 
 
1. 2020, Mar. 12. The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses COVID-19 virus, how to prevent infections and the short comings and strengths of the United States' Response. (Edited Version containing Dr. Kavanagh's comments). Jeff Santos. (12:05) https://youtu.be/xoUfs04zxdQ 


This webpage is for guidance only, always consult your healthcare provider and the CDC Website for information before making decisions relating to the coronavirus.