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279.  COVID-19: The Triple Threat & How to Prevent Long COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the triple threat of RSV, Long COVID, and COVID-19. He stresses the use of masking (N95 or KN95) especially for high-risk individuals, and the use of screening with home tests before family gatherings during the holidays. Three steps can be taken to prevent Long COVD, first do not get covid (100% effective), the second is to be up to date on vaccinations and boosters (30% to 40% effective) and finally, if you become infected to use Paxlovid (26% effective). Jack Pattie Show. Nov. 15, 2022.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221114-JackPattie.htm    
    
278.  Nov. 7, 2022.  COVID-19: Preparation for the BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 Surge in the Face of Immunological Imprinting.

Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses steps which should be taken with the upcoming holidays to prevent spread of COVID and the use of portable CO2 monitors to screen for poor air circulation. The Pandemic emergency has been extended through Jan 11, 2023, so one can order free COVID-19 tests on insurance and screen everyone prior to an event with a rapid test. There have been studies which show this will decrease spread by about 40%. In addition, one should ask guests to use precautions a week before the event of wearing masks and not going to high-risk venues. The new bivalent booster is at least as good as the original booster. However, some studies indicate it is not giving a large amount of added protection. Immune imprinting may be taking place. Another study on long COVID has found the incidence of occurrence at about 33%, even in mild to moderate cases. Long COVID commonly affects the heart and brain. We have given warnings about effects on the heart back in July of 2020, well before the vaccine, and at that time were called alarmist. The recent cardiac death of Julie Powell, just after having COVID, has focused the public on this occurrence. It is imperative that the public adopts testing, masking and become boosted to avert a surge with COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221107-JackPattie.htm   
   
  277.  Oct. 31, 2022.  COVID-19: RSV & Flu Surging, Lack of Exposure or Suppressed Response?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rapid rise of BA.1 and BA.1.1 variants which now comprise 27% of the sequences in the United States. These variants have an increase in immune evasion and have and can cause significant disease. Being up to date on your boosters is imperative. There are reports that the new bivalent booster has a similar efficacy as the ancestral booster, but it should still be effective in preventing severe disease and death from the new variants, since the boosters elicit a wide range of antibodies. We are also seeing a resurgence of the Flu and RSV viral infections. This may be because we were not exposed to them for the last two years, but another possibility is that COVID-19 suppresses one's immunity for a period of time. With a booster that is less than 100% effective, and highly infectious immune escape variants spreading, we should continue to wear N95 masks and avoid high-risk indoor settings. Jack Pattie Show. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221031-JackPattie.htm 
  
276.  Oct. 24, 2022. COVID-19: Scrabble Variants, CDC Director Tests Positive
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the myriad of immune escape variants which are spreading in the United States. If you have had an infection before the BA.5 surge or a previous booster, it is unlikely that you have adequate protection. The new bivalent booster is designed to boost immunity to the BA.5 variant and its offspring. However, only 10% of the population 65 years of age and older have received this booster. Overall, only 5% of the United States' population has received the new booster. The CDC has expanded eligibility of the bivalent booster down to the age of 5. This is a recommendation not a mandate. And the bivalent booster for this age group is just authorized not approved. However, children can develop Long COVID and they can spread the disease to others, including their caregivers. The CDC Director has contracted symptomatic COVID, she has had the bivalent booster. Thus, even if boosted you can still become infected and spread the disease, but you should be less likely to be hospitalized or die. Because of the BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 variants, monoclonal antibodies may not be effective, but Paxlovid and Molnupiravir are still good options. Jack Pattie Show. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221024-JackPattie.htm 
  
275.  Oct. 17, 2022.  COVID-19: BQ.1.1 Variant, Hiding in Plain Sight in the United States
The BQ.1.1 is the great grandson (or daughter) of BA.5. Thus, once it became apparent in the last few weeks that the variant is having a significant impact the data was separated. The BQ.1.1 is doubling every week and is on track to become the dominant variant in our variant soup. Europe is undergoing a surge in infections. The BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 are dominant strains. The hospital association in Germany has asked their government to mandate masks in indoor settings. Despite the looming dangers, only 4.5% of the United States’ population have obtained the Bivalent BA.5 booster. Misinformation is key. The most recent came from the Florida Dept. of Health which assumed “a high level of global immunity to COVID-19” and recommended against vaccination of 18- to 39-year-old males. However, myocarditis, as found in their study still pales in comparison to that from an infection. Studies have found infections having a 7 to 11 times higher chance of myocarditis compared to that which can occur from vaccinations, plus with vaccinations and boosters, the myriad of damage from Long COVID can be avoided. Recent studies have found Long COVID to affect between 28% and 48% of individuals with symptomatic COVID-19 and that boosters can cut the chances of developing Long COVID by almost half. This underscores the importance of obtaining the bivalent BA.5 booster. For most individuals, the benefits of the booster far outweigh risks. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 17, 2022.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221017-JackPattie.htm  
    
274.  Oct. 10, 2022.   COVID-19:  Level 6 Variants.  If 80% of USA's Population is Boosted, 90,000 Lives Will Be Saved. 

Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm discusses worrisome variants which are occurring. These include the B.1.1 variant which has been detected in Canada and the United Kingdom, along with a group of variants, Level 6 variants, which share a group of immune evading mutations, that are emerging in Southeast Asia. Level 6 variants can also have different lineages and are an example of convergent evolution, where different lineages take on the same mutations. The need for everyone to obtain the bivalent booster is imperative. The Commonwealth Fund projects that If 80% of the United States’ eligible population becomes boosted, 90,000 lives would be saved compared to the current rate of obtaining boosters. The flu season this year may also be more severe, since Australia has had a severe flu season. One can obtain the COVID booster and flu vaccine at the same time. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 10, 2022.    https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221010-JackPattie.htm  

  
273.  Oct. 7, 2022  COVID-19: Dr. Nele Brusselaers Discusses the Unfortunate Case of Sweden
     Dr. Nele Brusselaers joins Dr. Kevin Kavanagh on the Jack Pattie Show. Dr. Brusselaers discusses her observations regarding the COVID-19 response in Sweden. Dr. Brusselaers felt that early on Sweden did not prepare for the pandemic and was spreading disinformation. Only later did Swedish officials admit the virus was airborne. The main message was to wash your hands but for an airborne infection this strategy will not be protective against infection. Sweden was one of the last to recommend face masks. Sweden is a huge country with a population of 10 million. Thus, the population is not concentrated which should aid in control of infectious disease.
     Sweden gained worldwide attention since they were promoting their strategy from the start, but they were not transparent on what was actually happening, There were emails from officials stating children could be used to reach herd immunity. And at the same time publicly stating kids do not get infected.
     It was known that young children could spread SARS-CoV-2 and can also become ill. Children can become very sick and be hospitalized. Children do end up in the ICU. Mortality is very low but children can develop Long COVID. The upper high schools with children older than 16 yrs and colleges were closed and distance learning was utilized. Young children were in school, but parents or teachers were not notified if there were cases of COVID-19 in their schools.
     Opening of schools is a priority. Simple measures can reduce the risk. Vaccinations are key, as is placing children in bubbles or cohorting so they are just in contact with a limited number of children. Ventilation and holding classes outside can also make the school safer. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 7, 2022 https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221006-JackPattie.htm  
 
Evaluation of science advice during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden. Nature. Mar. 22, 2022. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41599-022-01097-5          

 
272.  Oct. 3, 2022.  COVID-19: BF-7 On The Rise, Hospitalizations Increasing in Europe
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the BF.7 variant, with rising hospitalizations in the United Kingdom and Europe, making the need for all to obtain the bivalent booster even more of an imperative. Kentucky has very low vaccination rates and also one of the highest rates of COVID-19 in the nation. Some countries have 98% of their population vaccinated, the United States at 68% is nowhere near this level and Kentucky at 59% is even lower. Disinformation regarding vaccines and COVID-19, in general, is inhibiting our response. There are paper mills which crank out false research and this is then used by our adversaries to misinform our public. One peer-reviewed publisher just retracted 500 articles. Later this week we will have Nele Brusselaers who will describe the situation in Sweden and how disinformation affected their response and then spread around the world. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 3, 2022.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20221003-JackPattie.htm     
   

271.  Sept. 26, 2022.  COVID-19: Boosters Help Prevent Long COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm: Long COVID is all too common and occurs in about 20% of COVID-19 cases. Heart palpitations and brain fog are symptoms which commonly persist. Boosters help prevent Long COVID but we are 70th in the world in obtaining boosters. One study found that overall 42% of unvaccinated people developing Long COVID, compared with receiving three doses of the vaccine, with only 16% develop Long COVID. In addition, you should avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor places especially during surges and if you are at high risk for severe COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show. Sept. 26, 2022.     https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220926-JackPattie.htm   
  

270.  Sept. 19, 2022.  COVID-19: Soap Works, Indoor Safety with Portable CO2 Monitors.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the use of Soap and Water to disinfect for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus which causes COVID-19). The virus has a protein lipid capsule and new research shows it is deactivated with soap. Despite what the President says, the pandemic is not over. We are still losing 3000 individuals a week to COVID-19. We need to improve indoor circulation. The use of portable CO2 monitors to monitor indoor air quality can help identify unsafe environments. Ideally one wants to keep the CO2 below 700 ppm it is not uncommon for it to be above 1000 ppm. High CO2 is associated with poor airflow and is a risk for not only spreading diseases but also can affect cognition. Finally, we need to obtain our COVID-19 boosters. We are 73rd in the world in obtaining boosters with only 33% of our population boosted. Presentations from this year’s conference can be viewed at https://healthconference.org  Jack Pattie Show. Sept. 19, 2022. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220919-JackPattie.htm  
 

269.  Sept. 8, 2022. COVID-19: Frontline Worker Safety Webinar & The Need for the BA.5 Booster
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the upcoming COVID-19 webinar which is free for all to attend on Sept. 14, 2022. There are an excellent number of world-renowned speakers including: Ambassador, Doctor Deborah Birx who will be discussing the pandemic response, Dr. Lidia Morawska who is one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential persons in the world for 2021 because of her work regarding the airborne spread of SARS-CoV-2 and how to make indoor places safe, and Past Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders. For a full agenda and list of speakers, along with registration information go to https://healthconference.org . Finally, Dr. Kavanagh stressed the need to obtain the BA.4/5 booster. Those who have had a double booster are 14 times less likely to die than the unvaccinated and 3 times less likely to die than the single boosted individual. In addition, boosters will help prevent the all-too-common occurrence of Long COVID. Jack Pattie Show. Sept. 8, 2022.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220908-JackPattie.htm   
   

268.  Aug. 29, 2022. COVID-19: KY Levels Too High, Curtailing Federal Vaccination & Testing Funding
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm reviews the current status of Monkeypox, Polio and COVID-19. Public health measures and vaccinations appear to be bringing monkeypox and polio under control, but COVID-19 has plateaued at a low but too high level. The United States has over a third of all Monkeypox cases in the world. In Kentucky we have just under 600 hospitalizations. The Federal Government has announced plans to curtail their free vaccination, testing and treatment programs for all. Testing and vaccinations will still have mandatory coverage by insurance, but one will not be able to walk into a pharmacy and obtain a test, no questions asked. Federal tests can still be ordered from https://covid.gov/tests .  Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 29, 2022. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220829-JackPattie.htm  
  

267.  Aug. 22, 2022.  COVID-19: New Bivalent BA.5 Vaccine Soon to Be Available, Childhood Monkeypox Has Been Reported
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the first case of childhood monkeypox in the United States and discusses how monkeypox spreads. COVID-19 is still causing increasing hospitalizations and deaths in the United States. A new bivalent vaccine designed to combat our current variant, BA.5, should be available in a few weeks. The relaxation of school COVID-19 guidance in the face of a teacher and bus driver shortage may not be prudent. Consideration should be given to wait until the new bivalent boosters are available. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 22, 2022.  https://youtu.be/xW5lZPRu2aw     https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220822-JackPattie.htm 
  

 266.  Aug. 15, 2022.  CDC Relaxes Guidelines for COVID-19, Monkeypox and Polio Continue to Spread
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the relaxation of CDC recommendations for controlling COVID-19. It may not be prudent to relax guidelines at a time of high viral levels and before the reformulated vaccine is available to the public. Nationally, SARS-CoV-2 is still causing almost 500 deaths per day and there is a new formulated vaccine in production. I would at least wait until the new vaccine has been formulated and distributed. There are significant risks of Long COVID, even in the young.  As the CDC has relaxed guidelines the FDA recommends that those who are infected rapid test negative three times over 5 days before they have close contact with others.  And there is a study out of Harvard and the Boston Public Health Commission which again shows that schools which successfully implement masking have a lower rate of COVID-19 infections. In this study 30% of all infections were attributed to unmasking policies.  Polio also appears to be spreading as is monkeypox.  Polio has been detected in the wastewater of New York City and cases of monkeypox are still exponentially rising. Retail establishments need to offer:
-- Curbside pickup with masked personnel delivering purchased items.
-- A few hours each week for mandatory masking so at-risk individuals can shop in a safer environment.
-- Improvements in indoor ventilation.
-- Encourage and purchase N95 masks.
Schools need to improve indoor ventilation and institute masking during times of high viral spread. Children can still become severely sick, although relatively infrequent. Of greater concern is children spreading the virus to caregivers and the risks of Long COVID.
Vaccinations for polio are key to stopping spread since it has an asymptomatic rate of spread of approximately 75%. Only 1 in 200 develop paralytic polio and only 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 10,000 will die. But polio has a propensity to affect children and can cause lifelong paralysis. One needs between 80 to 90% of individuals vaccinated before spread will stop. Unfortunately, unvaccinated individuals tend to congregate together at political and social events which allows the virus to spread. There is a risk that our relaxed attitude with COVID-19 will spill over into our preventative efforts with polio. With monkeypox, there are not enough vaccines and people need to avoid close intimate contact with strangers. Jack Pattie Show with Kruser.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220815-JackPattie.htm 

References
1. Beneficial Effects of Schools and Masking.
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.08.09.22278385v1 
2. FDA guidance on when to come out of isolation.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2022/08/11/covid-fda-pass-three-home-tests/10279150002/ 
3. Yale study regarding rapid-testing participants on the day of the event to reduce SARS-CoV-2 spread.
https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article
4. YouTube Video https://youtu.be/5YXBITx2I6w 

https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220815-JackPattie.htm   
  

265.  Aug. 8, 2022.  The Triple Threat of Polio, Monkeypox and SARS-CoV-2  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the triple threat of Polio, Monkeypox and SARS-CoV-2. Polio has reemerged in the United States with a single case in New York. For every single case of paralytic polio there are 200 to 300 other cases which are undetected. Polio spreads silently mostly causing mild illness with approximately 72% of cases being asymptomatic. Seven wastewater samples were found to be positive and community spread is suspected. In rural New York only 60% of individuals are vaccinated. Vaccination rates would have to be between 80% to 85% before spread would stop.

Monkeypox is also undergoing exponential spread in the United States. It is spread by skin-to-skin close contact. The virus is related to smallpox and although its mutation rate is low, it can evolve to a more dangerous form. It can also enter the rodent population, if it does this in the United States, we will not be able to eliminate the disease.

Finally, a new SARS-CoV-2 variant, BA.4.6 is spreading which is outcompeting the BA.5 variant. It is not known if it can escape immunity or causes more severe disease. A new report from Yale Univ. estimates that testing all participants on the day of an event will lower spread by 50%. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 9, 2022.     https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220808-JackPattie.htm  
   

264.  Aug. 1, 2022.  COVID-19: BA.5 Surging in Kentucky, Keep Immunity as High as Possible
Dr Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm: Cases of BA.5 are rising in Kentucky. Kentucky is now ranked by the New York Times as having the highest rate of infections in the United States. BA.5 is highly infectious and new research out of the Netherlands reports that BA.5 is more severe than Omicron but less so than Delta. So far, large increases in deaths are not being reported, but as seen in Kentucky, Hospitalizations and ICU admissions are increasing. The best defense is to stay up to date on vaccinations and boosters along with following public health advice. Monkeypox cases are also rising, now over 5000 in the United States, and is still largely in the gay community, but can easily spill over to heterosexuals, and in Africa it is even spread by children. One should refrain from risky behavior and not have close intimate contact with strangers. If you are at risk of acquiring monkeypox you should become vaccinated. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 1, 2022. https://healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220801-JackPattie.htm   
  

263. July 25, 2022.  COVID-19, Monkeypox, Polio:  Become Vaccinated and Boosted.
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rapid spread of monkeypox and that we need to institute more vigorous public health measures to stop the disease with case tracking and ring vaccinations. If monkeypox enters rodents in the United States it will become endemic. In addition, the rapid rise in cases of the BA.5 variant and the need to be up-to-date on vaccinations and boosters is encouraged. The BA.5 is not so much a weaker virus but the population is becoming more immune and we now have effective therapeutics. But if you are not up-to-date on vaccinations you will be at risk. If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 (do not wait for severe symptoms) and are over the age of 50 or immunosuppressed, you should see if you are a candidate for paxlovid. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions are on the rise in Kentucky. There is also the first case of polio in an unvaccinated individual. Unfortunately, vaccine hesitancy is spilling over into other diseases and the consequences can be severe, if our population does not become vaccinated. We need to act as a community not individuals and guard the health of each other. Jack Pattie Show. https://healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220725-JackPattie.htm    
    
262.  July 18, 2022.  COVID-19: Dangers of BA.5; Mask Up, Pick Up & Become Fully Boosted 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the increasing cases, hospitalizations and ICU admissions being fueled by the BA.5 variant. BA.5 is the most infectious pathogen known to mankind. It is more infectious than measles. Use of N95 masks, avoidance of indoor venues and when possible, use curbside pickup. Vaccination and being up to date on boosters is also an imperative. During the Omicron surge, those vaccinated with three mRNA doses had four times the death rate than those vaccinated with four doses, and those who were unvaccinated had over a 40 times greater death rate. The better outcomes and reduced case fatality rate is more dependent on the immunity of the population rather than the properties of the virus. Jack Pattie Show July 18, 2022. https://healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220718-JackPattie.htm  
 

261.  July 11, 2022. COVID-19: BA.5 Taking Over, Variants Arising Too Fast for Optimal Vaccine Development
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the impending BA.4/BA.5 surge with increasing cases and hospitalizations. So far, ICU admissions and deaths have not risen significantly. With infections and hospitalizations comes the risks of Long COVID. New research has found that over 60% of patients with Long COVID have viral antigens in the blood. This may well be a sign of an indolent subclinical infection of the virus.
Data from South Africa has shown a lower rate of hospitalizations with the BA.4 and BA.5 variants. But unlike the United States they had a large surge of the Beta Variant which offers protection against the BA.4 and BA.5 variants. The United States had a large wave with the Omicron Variant which offers much less protection. Pre-Omicron, those infected by the Delta Variant will have better protection providing their immunity has not waned.
New variants are appearing almost once a month, far too quickly for a specific vaccine. There is also another concerning variant in India the BA2.75, which may be even more infectious. With the Seasonal Flu, we have a new variant about once a year which allows for vaccine modification. However, COVID vaccines do produce a wide range of antibodies and will offer at least some protection against severe disease. There are two bivalent vaccines which are being tested which may offer even broader protection.
Vaccines are the safest way to augment your immunity, whether you have had a previous vaccination or infection become boosted. Thus, we need to take this virus seriously. We need to mask up, avoid indoor settings and stay up to date on vaccinations and boosters. Jack Pattie Show with Kruser. https://healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220711-JackPattie.htm  
  

260.  June 27, 2022.  COVID-19: Mask Up, COVID-19 & Monkeypox on the Rise; Vaccine & Natural Immunity Effectiveness Falls
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm. Hospitalizations and cases are up in Kentucky and Nationally. I suspect this is primarily driven by the BA.4/5 variant which by now comprises about 50% of cases. A recent serological study has found immunity produced by vaccines or prior infection is not nearly as effective, having only about 5% of the neutralizing activity as to the original wild type virus. Fayette County is in the CDC's RED Zone. Important to mask up and use N95 masks. Unfortunately, people reacted the opposite way to mandates and are not wearing masks. But employers should offer curbside pickup with delivering employees wearing N95 masks along with offering hours in the morning where masking is required so high-risk individuals can go shopping. In addition, businesses need to upgrade their ventilation. If at high risk, you need to wear a N95 mask. This affords good protection, but not as good as if others are also wearing them. They are most effective if the asymptomatic carrier is wearing the mask. We wear masks for others. Churches could also implement similar measures. For those not at high risk for hospitalizations, there is still the risk of Long COVID. New research on Long COVID has found SARS-CoV-2 antigens in serum in the majority of patients. Another study out of Australia also found a biomarker for individuals with brain fog and cognitive problems. Most disturbing is research out of the St. Louis VA by Dr. Al-Aly which shows that repeated infections producing Long COVID has accumulative added effect or disease burden. Thus, this is a dangerous virus and we all need to take precautions.
 
Monkeypox has arrived in Kentucky with one case in Louisville. Cases in the USA are increasing. On June 24th the United States had 201 cases, on June 6th there were only 45 cases. Monkeypox is not as infectious as SARS-CoV-2. There is some evidence it can become airborne but this is not felt to be a major mechanism of spread. It most commonly spreads by surfaces or close contact, especially male-with-male intimate contact. This Monkeypox virus has over 50 mutations and is felt to have undergone "expedited evolution" so it is NOT the same virus which was in Africa some 40 years ago. Monkeypox is just another reason to increase public health practices and improve building ventilation. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/g8fmD6Nwfao 

References

1. Hachmann NP, Miller J, Collier AY. Neutralization Escape by SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Subvariants BA.2.12.1, BA.4, and BA.5. NEJM. June 22, 2022. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2206576
  
2. Swank Z, Senussi Y, Alter G, Walt D. Persistent circulating SARS-CoV-2 spike is associated with post-acute COVID-19 sequelae. medRxiv. June 16, 2022. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.06.14.22276401v1   
  
3. Cysique LA, Jakabek D, Bracken SG, et al. Post-acute COVID-19 cognitive impairment and decline uniquely associate with kynurenine pathway activation: a longitudinal observational study. medRxiv. June 7, 2022. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.06.07.22276020v1
 
4. Al-Aly Z, Bowe, B, Zie Y. Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Reinfection. Research Square. June 17, 2022. https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-1749502/v1
 
5. Isidro J, Borges V, Pinto M, et al. Phylogenomic characterization and signs of microevolution in the 2022 multi-country outbreak of monkeypox virus. Nature Medicine. June 24, 2022. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-022-01907-y
      

259.  June 20, 2022.  COVID-19: Kentucky 49th in the Nation, Risks of Long COVID, Vaccines for Young Children.
Only 18% of parents going to get their young children vaccinated right away. Vaccinations in young children were overwhelmingly approved by the FDA and CDC Committees. The Pfizer Vaccine is given in 3 doses and the Moderna Vaccine is a higher dose and given in 2 doses. It is very important that all three doses are given with the Pfizer Vaccine since there is very little protection after 2 doses. Thus, one is vaccinated quicker with Moderna, but Pfizer may have milder symptoms. Severe symptoms are exceedingly rare with both vaccines.
Kentucky is 49th in the nation in their COVID-19 response (Commonwealth Fund). This is not good. There have been a lot of deaths, and long COVID which could have been avoided. One of the things you hear is that this virus is milder and not causing deaths as often. But really the truth is, people are getting more immune. This immunity will blunt surges but then the virus adapts becoming more infectious and developing a greater ability to escape immunity. But if you are not up to date on your vaccination, it places everyone at risk for disease. With the new variants, BA.4 and BA.5, keeping your immunity as high as possible is imperative. A two-dose mRNA vaccination will probably not provide any protection, you need to be boosted and keep up to date on the boosters.
Long COVID was also discussed along with a new study from Brigham and Woman's Hospital which found viral antigens in the majority of Long COVID patients' serum for up to a year after acute infection. This finding supports the true nature of Long COVID and underscores that SARS-CoV-2 is a dangerous virus. Symptoms of Long COVID include cognitive dysfunction (brain fog, memory difficulties, etc. ) in up to 70% of patients along with cardiac abnormalities. Jack Pattie Show. June 20, 2022. https://youtu.be/xUDVZ-2qVvE  

   
258.  June 13, 2022. COVID-19: Hospitalzations Up in Kentucky, Monkeypox Up in USA
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising cases in COVID-19 along with an uptick in hospitalizations. Nationwide, infections from the BA.4 and BA.5 variant is increasing, comprising over 13% of the sequenced isolates. It is very important that all individuals who are immunocompromised or over the age of 50 be up-to-date on their boosters. In the United States only 67% of the population have a single-dose and 31% have an additional dose. Data has shown that those who are boosted have a higher rate of infection than those who have had a two-dose vaccine. This is to be expected, since they are older, higher risk and may undertake risker behavior once they receive the booster. Those boosted have a lower rate of infections than the unvaccinated. This week the FDA will evaluate Pfizer's application for vaccination of children less than 5 years of age. Let's wait for the data before deciding. However, if you have a young child going to daycare and have high-risk individuals as caretakers, I would definitely talk to your physician regarding vaccinating your child. Cases of monkeypox is also slowly rising. Monkeypox appears to be primarily spread by MSM along with close contact. Aerosolization is also thought by some to be a possibility but is not felt to be a major route of spread. Jack Pattie Show. June 13, 2022. https://youtu.be/8ZaSES1W_40   
   

257.  June 6, 2022. COVID-19: COVID Still Here. Breakthrough Infections & Long COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the frequent infections in those who are boosted, even more than those who have just had a two-dose vaccine. This is probably due to one undertaking more risky behavior. Infection rates are still lower than in the unvaccinated and there is also a reduced risk of hospitalizations and death in those who are booster. Long COVID is still a concern. Vaccination may reduce the risks between 15% to 50% depending upon the study but the long-term effects are very debilitating. It should be remembered that the Omicron Wave was more severe than the Delta Wave, in terms of total deaths and excess deaths, according to a new study out of Brigham and Women's Hospital. Although, cases tend to be milder, the chances of one becoming severely sick when attending any activity is the combination of the chances of contracting the virus plus the case severity rate. Finally, Health Watch USA is having its 16th annual conference on Sept 14th, 2022. Speakers include Dr. Joycelyn Elders (past US Surgeon General), Dr. Dale Fisher (WHO Committee Chairman for Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network), Dr. Lidia Morawska (Director of the International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health), and Dr. Deborah Birx (Key Past Member of US Coronavirus Taskforce). More information will be posted in the future on https://healthconference.org . Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/nRv2HIOaORk    
   

256.  May 23, 2022.  COVID-19: Boosters for Ages 5 to 11 and UK's Workforce Blunted by Long COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of boosters in children aged 5 to 11. The two shot vaccination has only a 29% efficacy at preventing infection at two months. However, vaccinations prevent severe disease, with vaccinated children being one half as likely to be hospitalized as unvaccinated children. In the United States children have lost over 200,000 caregivers to COVID-19. And children can become infected, even more so than adults. The CDC found that 74% of children had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 from infection compared to 50% of adults aged 18-49 years. We still do not know the long term effects on children and the development of symptoms down the line. More information has been coming out on Long COVID. Approximately 30% of individuals treated for COVID-19 develop Long COVID. In the United Kingdom, 2.1% of the entire population has reported having Long-COVID. The workforce has decreased in the UK by 400,000 (the USA has 5.2 times the population as the UK). Monkeypox has also been reported to have arose simultaneously in 15 countries. It is not as infectious as SARS-CoV-2 and requires close contact to spread. The virus does not produce asymptomatic carriers and aerosolization is not a major mode of spread. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/GgcpVpZjiWM 

References:
  
1) Hospitalizations of Children Aged 5–11 Years with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19 — COVID-NET, 14 States, March 2020–February 2022 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7116e1.htm
  
2) More than 200,000 children nationwide lost a parent or caregiver to COVID-19. This St. Louis nonprofit is helping kids process their grief https://www.stlmag.com/children-lose-parent-to-covid-annies-hope/ 
  
3) Studies evaluate vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant among children and adolescents
https://dgalerts.docguide.com/ncov-home/article/studies-evaluate-vaccine-effectiveness-against-sars-cov-2-omicron-variant-among-children-and-adolescents 
   
4) Seroprevalence of Infection-Induced SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies — United States, September 2021–February 2022 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7117e3.htm  
 

255.  May 23, 2022.  Monkeypox, Curious Outbreaks Around the World.    
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses Monkeypox and how it has all at once produced simultaneous outbreaks in 14 countries. Monkeypox is a member of the Smallpox family. It is a well-known DNA virus which has a low mutation rate and does not spread nearly as fast as SARS-CoV-2. Its primary mode of spread is on surfaces and with close contact. It does not have significant asymptomatic spread or spread by aerosols. We do have a vaccine for monkeypox, and the smallpox vaccine should provide some protection. There is also an antiviral medication TPOXX. Long COVID has also been in the news. Most of the information has been depressing. In the United Kingdom (about 1/5 the size of the United States), they estimate 2.1% of their entire population has Long COVID and their workforce shrank 440, 000, the main driver is felt to be Long COVID. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/bUPmTJTzPHM   
       

254.  May 16, 2022.  COVID-19: Hospitalizations are Up, Vaccines Preventing Long-COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising cases of SARS-CoV-2 in the United States. Over the last week, cases are up 25% with hospitalizations up 16%. In Kentucky, since the recent nadir, cases are up 34% and hospitalizations are up 40%. Deaths nationally have increased 10%. The Kentucky Derby is felt to be a super spreader event, and may be responsible for the spike in cases in Louisville, Kentucky. It needs to be remembered that although outdoors dissipates aerosols, spreading by large droplets can still occur if you are within 6 feet of someone infected. Shouting and screaming increases spread by large droplets and aerosols.

There is added concern regarding Long COVID which affects 10% to 25% of all patients with COVID-19. A new report has found that if one is hospitalized there is a 4.5% chance of having kidney injury at 6 months, if in the ICU, this increases to over 7%. Cognitive impairment (brain fog, memory difficulties) is seen in 70% of long COVID-19 patients. Overall, just having COVID doubles your risk of heart disease. The good news is that recent research from Case Western Reserve has confirmed that vaccination is highly effective in the prevention of Long-COVID. At 3 months, those vaccinated are only 1/3 as likely to have heart disease, 1/4 as likely to have diabetes and 1/5 as likely to have hypertension. They are also 1/5 as likely to die as compared to the unvaccinated.

Another study which found Ivermectin to be beneficial with COVID-19 has been retracted. This brings the total to 10 retracted papers. Other recent studies have found no effect. The use of ivermectin has been promoted by disinformation, and unfortunately spread by some of our leaders. The use of this drug, as opposed to effective medications such as paxlovid, has cost lives. One needs to obtain information from reliable sources and remember there are paper mills which generate fake research and papers which are used in organized disinformation campaigns.

In the near future we will probably have a surge of the Omicron, BA.2 and BA.2.12.1 variants. Hopefully, vaccines will blunt this surge. Other variants which appear to be immune escape have emerged in South Africa, the BA.4 and BA.5 variants. Similar to the Mu and the Lambda variants, they may not take hold in the United States, we will just have to see. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/wRjrp0agxi0

  
253.  May 9, 2022.  COVID-19: Omicron as Deadly as Delta ? The BA4 & BA5 Immune Escape Variants.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the increasing cases and hospitalizations in the United States. Cases are up 25% and hospitalizations are up 9%, nationally. This is driven by the BA.2 and BA.2.12.1 variants. New data from Harvard and Mass. General Hospital confirms previous studies and what we have been advising since December of last year, that Omicron is just as deadly as previous variants if immunity and patient demographics are controlled for. Thus, get vaccinated and if eligible get boosted. A second booster is indicated for those over the age of 50 and who are immunocompromised or at a very high risk for COVID-19. There are even more concerning variants in South Africa, the BA.4 and BA.5 variants which appear to be immune escape variants. South Africa was felt to be 90% immune to Omicron but now are undergoing another large surge. Long COVID is also a concern with new studies showing that a severe case of COVID-19 can drop one's IQ points by 10 and up to 70% of cases of Long COVID have brain fog and cognitive difficulties. Long COVID occurs in 10% to 25% of cases of COVID-19. Vaccinations have been shown to mitigate or lessen the chances of developing Long-COVID. For now, let's keep our immunity as high as possible, wear masks on public transportation and respect the health of others, wearing a mask for them and not just ourselves. Jack Pattie Show. https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220509-JackPattie.htm      https://youtu.be/rZBe01qN0KY   
   

252.  Apr. 25, 2022. COVID-19: BA.2.12.1 May Surge and the Need to Continue Masking.  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new Sub-Sub-Variant BA2.12.1 which has arisen out of central New York. It is more infectious than the Omicron Variant and the BA2 Variant. Hospitalizations are also rising in several States. The severity of disease will be related to the immune status of an individual. Those with previous infections and who are vaccinated may still become infected but have less of a chance of hospitalizations. Infections give a variable degree of immunity while with vaccinations the immunity is more predictable. Having an infection plus becoming vaccinated often produces super immunity. New vaccines to a number of different variants are on the horizon and look promising. Until then we should follow public health advice of becoming vaccinated and wearing a high quality N95 mask. However, many are giving up masking and the new ruling regarding the lifting of mask mandates on public transportation places many at risk. Immunocompromised individuals often have to use public transportation and two-way masking is much better than just having one person wearing a mask. We all need to wear higher quality masks, either a N95 or KN95 mask. Jack Pattie Show. April 25, 2022. https://youtu.be/7Vxr14Skv4c 

  
251. Apr. 18, 2022.  COVID-19: Walgreens' Test Positivity Data & Efficacy of the 4th Vaccine Dose.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new data which Walgreens' is posting on test positivity rates. This is a large comprehensive data set which should give a good cross section of the nation. One can access it by Googling "Walgreens COVID-19 Index". In Kentucky, our test positivity rate has increased 100% over last week and our test positivity rate is over 10%. However, our very poor performance during the Omicron, BA.1, surge may give us some protection for the BA.2 variant, mitigating the number of cases. The second mRNA booster (Pfizer) appears to be efficacious in older individuals to restore one's immunity back to the original state. After six weeks efficacy against severe infections (hospitalizations) is augmented four times, (back to the original state) and did not wane. However, efficacy against infections approaches baseline after 6 to 8 weeks. This probably indicates a decrease in circulating antibodies but a persistence of memory B cells. New data regarding myocarditis shows that overall, the COVID-19 vaccine produces an incidence similar to other vaccines. There is one age group, young males which has an incidence of 450 out of a million vaccine doses. This is still only one case out of several thousand vaccine doses and the vast majority of cases are mild. In addition, even in this age group, the chances of contracting myocarditis from a vaccine is much less than contracting it from an infection. Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220418-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/g0P5hESU60I   
  
250.  Apr. 11, 2022.  COVID-19: As D.C. Has A Superspreader Event, The Navajo Nation Follows Public Health Advice
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent Gridiron Dinner where 70 individuals became positive for COVID. The Omicron BA.2 Variant is starting to increase in the Northeast United States and a second booster is recommended for those over the age of 60. A two-dose vaccine or an infection prior to the Omicron BA.1 Variant will NOT give protection against the BA.2 variant. President Biden hugging Nancy Pelosi should be considered close contact. The 15 minute rule was not for touching contact and was based upon the original less infectious variant. The Omicron BA.2 Variant is as infectious as the measles. Unlike Washington D.C., the Navajo nation is following advice. On a recent trip, the nearby Taco Bell still had indoor dining closed and all wore masks. Over 85 to 95% of the adult population was fully vaccinated and there was a relatively low rate of COVID at 8 per 100,000 cases. All need to become fully vaccinated and boosted. This will not necessarily protect against getting a symptomatic infection but does have good efficacy in preventing hospitalization and death. If one becomes infected it is important to take an antiviral medication, such as paxlovid, within 5 days of symptom onset. Jack Pattie Show. April 11, 2021.  https://youtu.be/ndrkazxhGfs   
   
249.  Mar. 28, 2022.  COVID-19: USA Increase In Cases, President Biden Recommending Second Booster
Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of continuing to wear masks in public indoor settings as the BA.2 variant rises in Kentucky. 10 counties in Kentucky are still in the RED with the CDC's relaxed guidelines. Even Yellow counties carry a risk, since approximately half of the adults are at risk for severe COVID-19 and everyone is at risk for Long COVID. We first discussed on this program the concern of BA.2 back in Jan 2022. In Europe, BA.2 is surging in several countries which have already had an Omicron spike and these countries are more vaccinated than the United States. We discussed the fading of vaccine induced immunity on this show back in Aug 2021. Immunity to boosters is also fading and the Biden Administration has recommended the FDA authorize, this week, a second booster for those over the age of 50. Vaccines do provide a layer of protection, but not nearly enough to abandon masking. There was another randomized controlled study regarding ivermenctin which failed to show an effect on hospitalizations. Disinformation and sham research is a significant problem along with paper mills which generate sham research. Available effective therapeutics include paxlovid, molnupiravir and monoclonal antibodies. Jack Pattie Show. March. 28, 2022. https://youtu.be/FKV9ILqIE6A
    

248. Mar. 21, 2022. COVID-19: BA2 Starting to Uptick, Hospitals Taking N95 Masks from Patients
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the BA.2 variant and how it is expected to cause an uptick in cases. Severity of illness appears to be the same as the Omicron Variant but it will vary widely between individuals depending upon their immunological status, vaccine dosages and previous exposure to the virus. At this time, the wearing of masks indoors, especially in areas of high viral spread is advisable. This will not only help to protect the individual but also others who may be immunocompromised. There is also a report in Politico of hospitals removing a patient's N95 mask and giving them a surgical mask. This makes little sense with a highly contagious aerosolized virus. The BA.2 Variant is up to 80% more contagious than Omicron and may be as or even more contagious than measles. Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220321-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/cFWmTdi7PDU   
  

 247.  Mar. 18, 20. COVID-19: Eastern Kentucky Rates Highest in the USA, World Death Data Three Times Higher
Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising incidence of the BA.2 variant in Europe and the dangers it poses to the United States, which are augmented by a very low vaccination rate. Vaccine effectiveness is waning and Pfizer and Moderna are applying to the FDA for a second booster (fourth dose). Vaccines are also not as effective in children as hoped with a reported 11% effectiveness in preventing infections in children 5 to less than 12 yrs old. New data on excess deaths may place the worldwide toll of the pandemic to be three times higher than the officially reported deaths. Jack Pattie Show. Mar. 18, 2022. https://youtu.be/BP0A6nJbWrY 

Timeline:
2:25 BA.2 Variant Causing a New Surge in Europe.
2:59 BA.2 in the United States.
3:10 USA Vaccination Rates Compared to the World.
3:32 Pfizer & Moderna Second Booster Dose Application to the FDA.
7:47 Vaccines in Young Children and Reduced Effectiveness in 5 to 12 Year Olds.
10:12 Excess Deaths Due to COVID-19
11:23 USA Vaccination Rates Compared to the World.  
    

246 .  Mar. 14, 2022.  COVID-19 Fourth Vaccine Dose May Be Needed, BA.2 Surging in the United Kingdom
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses Albert Bourla's, CEO of Pfizer, advisement that a fourth vaccine dose (second booster for most) is needed "Now". Kentucky still has very high rates of SARS-CoV-2 in its Eastern counties. Some counties are seeing rates increase. Fayette County is in the "RED", even with the new relaxed CDC guidance. Dr. Joel McCullough, Commissioner in Lexington-Fayette County Health Department advises continuing to wear masks in indoor settings. Rates in the United Kingdom are continuing to rise. Currently cases are up 107% in the past 14 days. The Stealth Omicron Variant, BA.2, is responsible and bears watching. This variant is at low but increasing levels in the United States. Jack Pattie Show. Mar. 14, 2022. https://youtu.be/kRYhE66HEkw    
   

245.  Mar. 11, 2022.  COVID-19: United Kingdom Cases Surging, New Study Finds Masks Work in Schools.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses organized disinformation which has surrounded the pandemic and that it may well have an origin in our foreign adversaries. Similar to the 1918 pandemic, COVID has national security implications regarding the war in Ukraine. Rates of infections, provision of vaccines will all have a significant impact. The new NIH study regarding optional versus mandatory school masking was discussed. The finding found optional masking had a 3.6 times high rate of secondary transmission. Many families in the United States are multigenerational and have members who are at severe risk for COVID-19. Cases in the United Kingdom are starting to surge and hospitalizations are up 12% to 13%. This is thought to possibly be due to the Stealth Omicron Variant. Deaths are also skyrocketing in Denmark. With vaccine and natural immunity waning, it is not time to let up on public health measures. Even with the relaxed CDC definitions of "RED" counties (high SARS-CoV-2 prevalence), Fayette County is still in the "RED". The current ranking system is primarily based upon hospitalizations and not focused on preventing mild disease or long COVID. With the recent study detailing the CNS effects from those who are afflicted with even mild disease makes it imperative that we focus on lowering rates of infections. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/3gO3GwbjsZU 
  
Timeline:
01:18 School Masking Policy and New Research.
04:11 CDC Extends Mask Mandate on Public Transportation.
04:50 CDC Definition of Safe SARS-CoV-2 Levels.
05:37 Recent Disturbing Data from United Kingdom.
06:09 COVID-19 Misinformation.
07:28 Why is there Misinformation and Geopolitics of the Pandemic Regarding the Ukrainian War.
12:08 Boosters & Long COVID and Risks to the Central Nervous System (Brain).    
   

244.  Mar. 7, 2022.  COVID-19: As China and Hong Kong Rates Skyrocket, Kentucky's Rate Plummets.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the continued rapid decline of rates in the United States and Kentucky. Kentucky still has some of the highest rates in the United States so it is not yet time to relax public health strategies in the majority of the state. China and Hong Kong have had significant outbreaks of Omicron and may be on the verge of ending their zero COVID tolerance policy. China has little SARS-CoV-2 immunity in their population and Omicron may not be as mild as experienced in the United States. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/lnFeCY791ZY  
 
243.  Mar. 4, 2022.  COVID-19: Lifting Guidelines too Soon, Vaccines Waning & Variants Looming
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses Kentucky's lifting of mask guidance at a time when over 80% of the state, including Louisville and Lexington are still in the "RED" zone, even with the new CDC's relaxed guidelines. A third report has found vaccines and booster effectiveness waning over just a few months. The Pfizer/BioNTech booster's effectiveness was observed to decrease from a 67% effectiveness in prevention of symptomatic disease at 2 to 4 weeks, to a 45.7% effectiveness at 10 weeks. Young school age children 5 to 11 years old also showed decrease vaccine effectiveness. In this group, vaccine effectiveness decreased from 65% at two weeks, to only 12% 28 to 34 days later. The use of masks and other public health strategies need to be implemented to make schools as safe as possible. These strategies include improvements in ventilation, masking, vaccination, surveillance and pool testing, along with contact tracing. Use of Ivermectin and Hydroxychloroquine is strongly discouraged, since multiple randomized controlled trials have failed to find a benefical effect. In addition, Hydroxychloroquine may augment the dangers of cardiac complications which are caused by COVID-19. Instead, early use of monoclonal antibodies, paxlovid (Pfizer), molnupiravir (Merck) and remdesivir is encouraged. Finally, the prospects and timing of a fourth mRNA dose (second booster) was also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. Mar. 4, 2022. https://youtu.be/QBagGigD-_E    
    

242.  Feb. 28, 2022. COVID-19: CDC Revises Mask Guidance & Wuhan Market
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new CDC mask guidance which changed the country from 95% of the country's counties being in high risk to now only 30% are in the high risk category. The new metric is based on hospital beds and hospital admissions along with the country's case load. Concern was expressed that basing action on the lagging indicator of hospitalizations will not allow us to detect and rapidly blunt an impending surge. In other words, we will be reactive instead proactive in our public health system. In addition, these regulations may be placing the approximately 1 in 30 immunocompromised individuals at risk. Indications for the first and second booster were reviewed along with encouraging all, even those who have had a previous infection to become vaccinated. Finally, new research indicating the Wuhan Animal Market was the source of the pandemic was discussed. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/kBdZVfQEBLA    
   

241.  Feb. 25, 2022.  COVID-19: Kentucky Rates Still High & Second Booster on the Horizon.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the high rates of COVID-19 in Kentucky and the looming dangers of the BA.2 Variant. With COVID, forecasts are like predicting the stock market. Many feel it is not time to relax public health strategies, with the BA.2 variant looming. This variant is the predominant strain in Denmark and South Africa. Deaths are at an all time high in Denmark and are also spiking in South Africa. All who qualify should obtain a booster. A second booster (4th dose) is currently recommended for those who are severely immunocompromised but eligibility may be soon expanded to others. Evusheld has also become available for the immunocompromised or those who cannot tolerate a vaccination. This is a monoclonal antibody product which produces approximately 6 months of passive immunity in patients. Masking is also very important. Mask effectiveness and how to safely reuse masks is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/iRodV-M2DAc    
   

240.  Feb. 21, 2022.  COVID-19: BA.2's Even More Concerning Sub-Variant, H78Y Mutation
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent randomized controlled trial which failed to show any benefit of Ivermectin to prevent severe COVID-19. The CDC has reported immunity produced by boosters is waning after 4 months and the country of Israel is administering a fourth vaccine dose to all. In the United State a fourth dose is recommended to those with significant immunocompromise. If one has questions they should consult their doctor. An Omicron specific vaccine is expected to be available by late spring. The United States is relaxing restrictions for COVID-19. But this may not be a good time to let down our guard. The BA.2 Variant (Stealth Omicron) is ravaging Denmark and is more infectious and appears to cause more severe disease than Omicron (BA.1). In addition, a new Omicron Sub-Variant with a H78Y is even more concerning and has the potential to be even more infectious, cause more severe disease and even augment Omicron's propensity to evade immunity. Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220221-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/iockCQ3pkek   
  
239.  Feb. 18, 2020.  COVID-19: Masks Work! Natural Immunity Augmented by Vaccinations
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the waning immunity with boosters which is occurring after 4 months. Immunity is also waning from natural infections but on average not a rapidly. With the omicron variant both 2 dose mRNA vaccine and natural immunity need to be boosted. New research suggests even one dose of a vaccine will greatly augment natural immunity. The dangers of the Stealth Omicron, BA.2, is discussed. It is reported to be more infectious than Omicron, as deadly as Delta and has an even greater propensity to avoid immunity. The effectiveness of masks is discussed along with the problems with a bill under consideration in the Kentucky House which would ban mask mandates in Kentucky Public Schools for all bacteria and viruses. Schools should not let up on public health strategies, including the use of masks, improving ventilation, social distancing, robust testing and contract tracing. Jack Pattie Show. Feb. 18, 2022. https://youtu.be/qaIiBT-6qJA 
 

238.  Feb. 14, 2022.  COVID-19: Pan-Variant Treatments in Pipeline, FDA Postpones Vaccine Authorization in young Children
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibody treatment from Elli Lilly. Similar to the GSK product this one also targets common areas of the virus which is present in multiple variants. We now have 4 drugs which are effective with Omicron but they are in short supply. The FDA post-pones the authorization hearing on the Pfizer Vaccine in very young children under the age of 5. The CDC has also published data of booster waning after 4 months in the prevention of visits to the ER and Urgent Treatment Centers. There is better protection against hospitalization with waning at 4 months. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/mY26WN8YTY4  
   

237.  Feb. 11. 2022.  COVID-19:  Relaxing Too Soon & Spreading Outdoors in White Tail Deer  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need to bring the pandemic under control and lower rates.  Now is not the time to relax.  The virus will always be with us.  Omicron is in white tail deer on Staten Island.  Deer represent an example that this virus can effectively spread in an outdoor environment.  We need to follow public health advice regarding social distancing and wearing N95 masks.  New and promising treatments are under development with new vaccines and the GSK monoclonal antibody treatment is currently available which may be effective on a wide range of variants.   Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/GBUA1yyJ0j4        
   
236.  Feb. 4, 2022. COVID-19: Strict Rules at the Olympics & Omicron Surging Worldwide
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the strict measures undertaken by China to control spread of SARS-C0V-2 along with a near universal vaccine mandate in Austria. This is not a political issue. The Omicron Variant is surging in Kentucky and the Stealth Omicron Variant (BA.2) is waiting in the wings. The University of Kentucky has the highest rates of hospitalizations, ICU utilization and patients requiring a ventilator than they have had during the pandemic. The FDA will consider a new vaccine for young children ages 6 mo. to less than 5 years. Children can get severely sick from SARS-CoV-2 but severe illness is much less common than adults. However, they can commonly spread the virus to others and their caregivers. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/e0UQRtmsAAg   
    
235.  Jan. 31, 2022.  COVID-19: The Army's Pan-Coronavirus Vaccine
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm gives an update on the Omicron & BA.2 Variants. He also discusses two research initiatives from the US Army & Duke Human Vaccine Institute. They are working on a Pan-Cornavirus Vaccine. The vaccine is a nano-particle vaccine which is based on the DH-1047 antibody and the army is currently in Phase III clinical trials, so I am very hopeful for this initiative. Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220131-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/FMNE1MlA9t0   
  

234.  Jan. 28, 2022.  Stealth Omicron Invading, The FDA is NOT Trying to Kill Republicans
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the out of control COVID-19 pandemic in Kentucky. Misinformation is fueling the pandemic and killing Kentuckians. Monoclonal antibodies are not meant to be a first line of defense in this pandemic. They can be variant specific, are difficult to manufacture and are in short supply. Two were not effective against Omicron and taken off the market. The misinformation spread by some of our leaders that this was done by the FDA to kill Republicans is further dividing our nation and playing into the playbooks of our foreign adversaries. The Stealth Omicron Variant (BA.2) is taking off in several countries and appears to be more infectious. According to Denmark infectious disease experts this may be due to further immune escape properties. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/cp-0bGvLcj4     
   
Timeline:
0:35 Omicron & Stealth Omicron (BA,2).
6:02 Misinformation regarding the pandemic.
10:44 Shortage of healthcare workers is preventing the expansion of healthcare delivery.

      
233.  Jan. 24, 2022. Omicron: BA.2 Variant Causing 50% of Cases in Denmark
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the BA.2 Variant "Stealth Omicron" which is causing 50% of the cases in Denmark and increasing exponentially. He stresses the need for boosters, and vaccinations in those who have had an infection. A two dose mRNA vaccine does not appear to provide adequate protection against Omicron and greater than 9.5% of Omicron cases are reinfections (in individuals having a previous natural infection). Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20220124-JackPattie.htm    https://youtu.be/Tb18lEnhrh8  
    
232.  Jan. 21, 2022.  Rapid Tests Explained, Medicare NOT Paying for Free Purchase of Rapid Tests.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm explains the new free rapid test program from the Federal Government. Four tests per household can be ordered from http://covidtest.gov .  In addition, upto eight tests per individual will be paid for by private insurance but Medicare does not cover these tests. Medicare covers the highest risk group of patients who need these tests. Rapid tests are most accurate during peak infectivity of the individual. In addition, upto three N95 masks will be provided per person by the Federal Government through local pharmacies. The pandemic has inflicted a severe economic toll on the United States. Even mild disease can cause massive work outages. There have been no government mandated shutdowns in Kentucky since the summer of 2020. So far (as calculated by insurance company allowables, Kentucky has spent almost 1 billion dollars in hospital care alone. Finally, two superspreader events in Harlan County were discussed which were tracked back to two high school basketball games. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/2GbOJfr0APg   
 

231.  Jan. 17, 2022. Omicron Still Infectious After 5 days, France Mandating Vaccinations.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for more stringent isolation recommendations in the United States. Several studies have now found 25 to 35% of COVID positive individuals are still positive after 5 days. Testing negative with two rapid tests (over two days) is needed. There is also disinformation circulating regarding the vaccines not being of use against Omicron. This has arisen from articles which have found reduced vaccine effectiveness in preventing infections. However, they are still very effective in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. Over 80% of those hospitalized and over 90% of those in the ICU are unvaccinated. Pfizer and Moderna are coming out with a new vaccine to cover Omicron in March. This will be important to take to broaden your immunity and have coverage for future variants. France has passed a law mandating vaccination for individuals in public venues, a negative test will no longer be accepted. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/d2IQziqqYWg    
   

230.  Jan. 14, 2022.  Omicron: Faster Testing is Needed & SCOTUS Upheld Healthcare Worker Mandates  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the U.S. Supreme Court Ruling to uphold the coronavirus vaccine for healthcare workers. Dr. Kavanagh pointed out that often there is not a choice in providers and healthcare workers to take care of the most frail and vulnerable in our population who have entrusted their lives to them. Private employers should maintain the right to mandate vaccinations in their workplace. This will encourage both patronage and help attract new employees due to having the safest workplace possible. Even though everyone will probably get Omicron, It is important to put off being infected so you will have access to a healthcare system which is not overrun with patients and access to antiviral medications, which currently are in short supply. Over 80% of COVID patients in the hospital are not vaccinated, and over 90% in the ICU are not vaccinated. Of the vaccinated who are dying of COVID, 75% have 4 co-morbidities. Testing is also problematic. More COVID-19 tests need to be available and test results, even from PCR tests, need to be available in 24 hours, 7 days a week so antiviral medications can be started within 3 days of symptom onset. Jack Pattie Show. Jan. 14, 2022. https://youtu.be/LudMYRuaIc8    
      

229.  Jan. 10, 2022.  Omicron: Hospitals in Crisis With "Non-COVID" COVID Patients.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm stresses that COVID-19 affects every organ of the body. With Omicron, expect a wide rang of presentations. COVID-19 is as much a cardiovascular as it is a lung disease. Patients may well present with heart attacks and strokes which may not have occurred if they did not contract SARS-C0V-2. The question which should be asked: Is the positivity rate in "non-COVID" cases greater than the rate found in the community, if it is then SARS-CoV-2 may well be a contributing factor? Dr. Kavanagh also discusses the need for testing after being released from 5 days of quarantine. And he relates two COVID-19 stories in family units of his relatives. One vaccinated with mild infections, the other unvaccinated with severe results. Both outbreaks came from children attending school and/or daycare. In addition, rapid testing was found to be very useful and predictive. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/ZhrXcqW-koc    
    
228.  Jan. 7, 2022. Omicron: Over 10,000 Cases in Kentucky, Hospitals Triaging Surgeries 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers of the Omicron Variant which is caused by its high infectivity. Surgical cases are being cancelled with an economic toll of $500 million dollars in hospital care in Kentucky alone. This virus is endemic and we must make sure our children and teachers have the safest environment possible, including vaccinations, masking and improvements in ventilation. Dr. Kavanagh also responds to a caller who mitigates the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Jack Pattie Show. Jan. 7, 2022.
Timeline of topics:
0:44 Elective and semi-elective cases canceled.
2:10 Kentucky and the U.S. vaccination rates.
2:42 Economic Toll. $500 million a year in Kentucky
3:08 Endemic virus - We need to change
3:43 Importance of ventilation.
4:56 Teachers going back to work & Children spreading disease
5:52 SARS-CoV-2 attacks ACE2 receptor.
6:51 View point of an antivaxxer
9:00 Response to antivaxxer
12:28 COVID-19 in Children
YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/btStwbvN6-U  

     
227.  Jan. 3, 2022.  COVID-19: Kentucky Hospitalizations Cost 1 Billion Dollars So Far
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the high cost of the COVID-19 pandemic and how the metric of death is a very low bar for public health. We must prevent disease along with the debilitating effects of Long COVID-19 and the huge cost of care for those who develop COVID-19. In Kentucky, hospitalizations alone are estimated to cost 1 billion dollars using insurance allowable charges from FAIR Healthcare. Massive loss of work from even outpatient COVID-19 cases are threatening our frontline workers. In response, the CDC has lowered the time for isolation of asymptomatic cases from 10 to 5 days. However, there is a call to also add negative tests before clearance to return to work is granted. The utility of rapid testing is discussed and when multiple tests are needed. In addition, antiviral therapeutics are in short supply. Only one monoclonal antibody, GSK, is efficacious with the Omicron Variant. The antiviral drugs from Pfizer and Merck are also in short supply. Pfizer's drug, Paxlovid, has extensive drug interactions and Merck's drug, Molnupiravir, has reduced efficacy and some safety concerns. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/Im_AOqjsIus   
   
226.  Dec. 24, 2021.  Omicron: Skyrocketing Cases, Significant Risks for the Unvaccinated
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the risks and severity of Omicron infections in the unvaccinated and those who are not immune. Much of the rosy picture being painted regarding severity of disease is because of inclusion of breakthrough infections and reinfections that produce relatively mild disease. Two new drugs are coming on the market, one from Pfizer, paxlovid, and the other from Merck, molnupiravir. Both will probably not be widely available during the Omicron surge and should not be viewed as a substitute for vaccination. Only one monoclonal antibody, the one from GSK, is effective against Omicron. Home testing is critical, but unfortunately, the announced Federal Program is too little too late. Finally, you need to upgrade your masks to N95s. Jack Pattie Show.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20211224-JackPattie.htm    https://youtu.be/HLlnG-TdsyA   
  

225.  Dec. 20, 2021.  Omicron: 1 Million Cases a Day, Too Few Boosters Taken Bodes a Hard Winter.
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the urgent need for those who are vaccinated in Kentucky to obtain a booster. In Kentucky, less than 20% of those eligible have obtained one. With the Omicron Variant, if unvaccinated there is a 30% less chance of hospitalization compared to previous variants. Vaccination in South Africa is reported to provide 70% protection against hospitalization. Omicron cases are expected to peak at 1 million cases a day in the United States. This will overrun our healthcare system. In the United Kingdom cases are already at 100,000/day and rising. The UK has about 1/5 the population of the United States. Only one monoclonal antibody is effective against the Omicron Variant (Vir/GSK) but there are only around 250,000 doses available. Home testing is imperative but prevention with mask wearing and vaccination to prevent infection is by far the best strategy. Deal with mandates at the polls, deal with the virus by getting vaccinated and receiving a booster. Jack Pattie Show with Kruzer. Dec. 20, 2021. https://youtu.be/wof7lbzOPaA  
    
224.  Dec. 17, 2021.  What Does Not Kill You, Mutates and Tries Again
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discussed the high price the United States may pay with the Omicron Variant. It may be less lethal, causing a 30% less of a chance of hospitalizations in those infected but its high infectivity (replicating 70 times more than Delta) may cause so many cases that our healthcare system will be overrun. The United States may fare worse than South Africa because our population has received the 2 dose mRNA vaccine early in 2021 and our immunity may be waning. If the healthcare system is overrun, patients will not be able to obtain needed treatment and the financial cost will cripple our nation. One hospitalization in the ICU can have an out of network price of $249,000. We need to encourage mask usage, frequent home testing and the avoidance of poorly ventilated indoor settings. In Singapore, vaccinated healthcare workers are tested twice weekly and the unvaccinated are tested daily. Good news on combating the Delta Variant, the FDA has approved monoclonal antibody products to prevent infections in the immunosuppressed. Protection can last for 6 months with a 77% efficacy in preventing COVID-19. In addition, new research supports the protective effect of natural infection against the Delta Variant. And immunity is greatly augmented if those previously infected obtain a vaccination. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/Dh5fWC6w4yI    
  
223.  Dec. 13, 2021.  COVID-19: Omicron Spreading, Unvaccinated at Risk, Massive Bird Flu in the United Kingdom
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the newly released CDC data regarding initial cases of the Omicron Variant. So far infections in the United States have occurred frequently in foreign travelers who were vaccinated and in 14 individuals who have had boosters. Only one infection resulted in hospitalization, the rest had mild symptoms. The United States has a full vaccination rate of 61%, this is 60th in the world. All need to become vaccinated and obtain boosters. It is feared that infection in those who do not have preexisting immunity may cause severe disease. In the United Kingdom, indoor mask requirements and vaccine passports have been instituted and advisories given to work at home. Because of the high infectivity of Omicron, our healthcare system may still be overrun. The Bird Flu outbreak in the United Kingdom was also discussed with the culling of 500,000 birds. Bird Flu can cause severe disease in humans with a 60% fatality rate, but it is not that transmissible. Gain of Function Research has created a Bird Flu virus which is as transmissible as the seasonal flu and as lethal as the Bird Flu. Needless to say this type of research should be banned and we need to keep our guard up for future pandemics. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/VkLhgtDGB2Q    
  

222.  Dec. 10, 2021.  COVID-19: Nursing Shortage, Response to Anti-Vaxxer & Skyrocketing Healthcare Costs.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the urgent nursing shortage in Kentucky and how this is a decades long problem of nursing retention not production. University of Louisville has greatly increased the output of their nursing program from 80 per class to almost 240 per year. Working conditions, death benefits, presumptive disability along with safe nurse-to-patient staffing ratios are of paramount importance. In addition, the need for home testing is discussed along with the Omicron Variant. For now we should not be planning for a fourth vaccine dosage. In addition, a response was given to an antivaxxer regarding the need to become vaccinated. Timeline:
1. Melatonin in Children. 1:07
2. Is There a Need for a 4th Vaccine Dose. 3:26
3. Nursing Shortage. 7:43
4. Response to Anti Vaxxer. 8:14
5, Home Testing. 11:56
Jack Pattie Show. Dec. 10, 2021. https://youtu.be/XosAgXyVNdk

  
221.  Dec. 6, 2021.  COVID-19: Omicron in 17 States
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Omicron Variant. Recent data from South Africa indicates Omicron is hospitalizing children under the age of 5 years at a disproportionately high rate, similar to the rate of those over the age of 60. Omicron appears to be more infectious than Delta, but the infection may be less severe. We still do not have definitive data at this point. In Kentucky, our state is in the beginnings of another Delta Wave with a test positivity rate of over 9% Delta is producing breakthrough infections in those who are vaccinated, so obtain a booster if it has been 5 months from full vaccination with a mRNA vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. Dec. 6, 2021. https://youtu.be/Phzue0isfLA   
 

220.  Dec. 3, 2021.  COVID-19: Omicron Looming: Best & Worse scenarios
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm presents the best and worse case scenarios for the Omicron Variant. The best case is if the virus is highly infectious and causes only mild disease. The worse case is if it is from an animal host, very infectious, evades immunity and causes severe disease. Unfortunately, the first three characteristics of the worse case scenario seems to have occurred. A recent report in STAT indicates that Omicron evolved on a separate genetic path, possibly from a rodent. Omicron has 7 mutations which are specific to allow the virus to attach to a rodent; and Omicron is reported to be three times as likely to cause reinfections. The vaccine and natural immunity debate is tainted due to the many variables of number of vaccine doses and severity of disease but what is clear is that everyone needs to have their immunity boosted. If you have had the vaccine get a booster. If you had an infection get vaccinated. Finally, follow public health advice by wearing masks (N95s) and utilize home testing. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/jb0jeMfb2zE  
 

219.  Nov. 29, 2021.  COVID-19: The Omicron Variant, Gauteng Province, SA, Hospitalizations Increase 3-Fold in 2-Weeks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm reviews the known information about the Omicron Variant. The variant was detected in Gauteng Province, South Africa where hospitalizations have increased 3-fold over a 2-week period. The case fatality rate is not known nor is it known how effective the vaccines are against this variant. The Omicron Variant has over 30 mutations on its spike protein which may help it evade immunity. Most experts feel the mRNA vaccines will offer a degree of protection and boosters are of utmost importance. Those who have had a natural infection should also boost their immunity by becoming vaccinated. Travel bans are important short term measures to buy time for reformulation of the vaccine and the production and distribution of antiviral medications. Pfizer is reporting distribution problems of its vaccine in South Africa with only 19 million of the 30 million delivered doses being administered. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/7z6ubfjjbfg   
 
218.  Nov. 22, 2021. COVID-19: Workplace Safety, Thanksgiving Safety, Boosters are Imperative
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the urgent need for boosters and reminds everyone that even "mild" infections are not truly mild. The United States has had a number of missteps in this pandemic and the mixed messaging with the boosters is just the latest example. Work place safety is key which includes use of N95 masks, vaccination of employees, frequent (at least weekly) testing of all employees and improving ventilation. Thanksgiving safety should involve all who can being vaccinated and the use of home testing before the event. As with other holidays, the turkey should be de-thawed slowly in the refrigerator and use impeccable hygiene with frequent washing of hands and countertops. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/oBNUdUdaIG8    
   

 217.  Nov. 19, 2021. COVID-19: Europe Surging, Highly Vaccinated Countries Needing Boosters
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the fading hopes for herd immunity. SARS-CoV-2 has several animal hosts, including white tail deer. Our society needs to learn to live with, not ignore this virus. Smallpox had a much higher fatality rate but reinfections and repeated surges were rare, everything was paid for at one time. COVID-19 is similar to compound interest with continued waves slowly gnawing away at society. With the rising costs of healthcare (Medicare Part B premiums and deductibles rising 14.5%, Singapore is curtailing coverage for the voluntarily un-vaccinated. Boosters are desperately needed, in Kentucky only 10% of the population have received one. Several countries including Iceland, Ireland and Gibraltar have over 90% of adults vaccinated but are undergoing a COVID-19 surge. These countries were one of the first to be vaccinated but have been slow rolling out boosters. It is hoped that the booster will stimulate immunity longer than 6 months. Many vaccines have three dosages in a course and three doses may be the standard for SARS-CoV-2. (10:26) Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/VW2DPsaJumQ    
  

216. Nov. 15, 2021.   COVID-19 Costs are Skyrocketing, A Grave Error in Not Giving Boosters To Everyone.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the surging of the Delta Variant in Eastern Europe, a region of the world which is more highly vaccinated than the United States. 65% of Austrians are fully vaccinated, compared to 59% in the United States and only 51% in Kentucky. In addition, many fully vaccinated individuals are in need of a booster and are susceptible to the virus. It may be a grave error not recommending boosters for all who are vaccinated. COVID-19 is inflicting a heavy toll on our society directly with deaths and disability, indirectly causing non-COVID patients to forego needed care and driving up health care costs. This year Medicare Part B premiums will increase 14.5%. Jack Pattie Show. (4:58) https://youtu.be/Vcr_OdqesfQ   
   

215.  Nov. 12, 2021.  COVID-19: Some USA Data is More Than 2 Months Old
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for real time data on hospitalizations and deaths by vaccination status. Data is greater than 2 months old. In addition, we need timely data on all breakthrough infections, and reinfections. The United States is also not sequencing nearly enough infections to effectively track the emergence of variants. Other topics include the need for boosters and the recent surges of the Delta Variant in Germany and France. Data from Israel found the Pfizer booster increased antibody levels by 58 times in those individuals over the age of 60. Childhood vaccinations are recommended and the remote risks of myocarditis is discussed. Myocarditis in less likely to occur in females and in individuals over the age of 30. Because of the remote risk of myocarditis, France and Germany recommend those under the age of 30 be vaccinated with the Pfizer as opposed to the Moderna vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. (13:06) https://youtu.be/DkovZAmPRRo   
  

214.  Nov. 8, 2021. COVID-19: Pfizer's & Merck's New Pills; Vaccines for 5 to 12 yr. Olds.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new COVID-19 pill from Pfizer, Paxlovid. Paxlovid is reported to have a 90% efficacy rate in preventing hospitalizations and deaths caused by COVID-19. It is a protease inhibitor, the type of drug which has been successfully used in HIV and HEP-C treatments in the past. The COVID-119 medication from Merck, molnupiravir, is reported to have a 50% efficacy in the prevention of hospitalizations and deaths. Molnupiravir works by substituting itself into the genetic code of the virus. There may also be safety concerns regarding this for humans. It is not to be used during pregnancy. These drugs are NOT to be substituted for vaccinations, which add another layer of armor, and are efficacious in the prevention of mild to moderate disease and long COVID-19. Finally, vaccinations for children age 5 to 12 will be available in Lexington, KY starting tomorrow. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/9yBVcpng53g
    

213.  Nov. 5, 2021.  COVID-19: Virus Spreading in Deer, Mandates, Children & COVID-19 Infections.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new report of the COVID-19 virus spreading in the deer in Iowa. 80% of the deer have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in Iowa. This follows a report earlier this year where 40% of the deer tested positive in the States of Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania and New York. In addition, the topic of vaccine mandates, vaccinations in children and that vaccines prevent the spread of the virus were discussed. To reopen our economy, workers must feel safe and be protected. Vaccines, proper PPE and following public health advice are crucial to allow this to happen. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK FM 97.3 https://youtu.be/wvUzpL3JZXk    
    

212.  Nov. 1, 2021.  COVID-19: Natural (Infections) Versus Vaccine Immunity
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new CDC study which found immunity from vaccines gave over five times the immunity as from natural infection. In addition, the importance of vaccinating children to COVID-19 was stressed. Children make up about 24% of cases and there is approximately a 2% rate of hospitalizations and in hospitalized children up to a 14% chance of developing Long COVID-19. Finally, vaccine mandates in frontline workers is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. Nov. 1, 2021. (6:32) https://youtu.be/Zf5s2HGes0Q   
  

211.  Oct. 29, 2021. COVID-19: Childhood Vaccinations, School Air Quality and Parental Use of CO2 Monitors.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the COVID-19 pandemic and how it is causing collateral damage by preventing needed treatment and surgery for many patients with life-threatening diseases. In addition, the FDA has recently voted to authorize the Pfizer Vaccine for children. Children make up 40% of COVID-19 cases and once infected they have a 2% chance of being hospitalized and can also develop Long COVID. Ventilation in schools is of utmost importance and some parents are using CO2 monitors to measure the ventilation freshness of indoor air. Finally, the threat that the Delta Plus Variant poses to our country and the need for boosters, especially for the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show.  (15:13)  https://youtu.be/qEZz2lq7Xg0  
  

210. Oct. 1, 2021. COVID-19: KY Cases Falling Deaths are Up. We Need To All be Vaccinated Similar to Portugal.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the August & September Delta surge in Kentucky which was worse than the Winter surge. The Delta surge has more daily cases and 40% more cases, 463 patients, were on the ventilator, compared to 253 on the ventilator over the winter surge (daily rates, 7 day moving average). Slightly less deaths, which is why we are getting better at treating respiratory distress from COVID-19. Some predict COVID-19 may be all but gone in a year, but in the USA it may take longer with only 56% of our population fully vaccinated. In Portugal, 84% of individuals in the country (including children) are vaccinated and they are opening the country. In the USA, we have far too many unvaccinated, and at the same time we are worrying about our supply chain. And, there are many individuals, such as myself who have had to put off needed surgery because of filled hospitals. A new study out of Oxford found 1 in 3 patients with COVID-19 had symptoms 3 to 6 months after diagnosis. And 40% of the Long COVID-19 patients initially developed their symptoms after 3 months. Questions were answered regarding the need for those with previous infections to get vaccinated because natural sterilizing immunity cannot be measured. In addition, there are two studies which showed that if you are vaccinated your chances of developing COVID-19 is reduced. The risks of ventilators and oxygen usage is explained. They are used when only necessary and will help some individuals but are not a cure-all and at high levels can also cause damage. Knowledge of how to best use these interventions is one of the reasons the COVID-19 death rate has fallen. Finally, the good news. Results of a new drug, molnupiravir, from MERCK to fight COVID-19 is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 1, 2021. (17:05)  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20211001-JackPattie.htm  
       

209.  Sept. 27, 2021.  COVID-19: Boosters, Vaccines, Monoclonal Antibodies & Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for Pfizer boosters and recaps on last Friday's show where Dr. Hoehl from Germany stressed that schools require surgical grade masks and if unvaccinated, testing three times a week. Masks work, remember the particle size being filtered is between 10 to 100 microns and are small droplets which aerosolize. They are not the dry particle measured by electron microscopy. The FDA has approved boosters for the Pfizer vaccine, Moderna is probably soon to follow. The immunity induced by Moderna is holding up better. Moderna spaced the first and second doses out by 4 weeks and has over three times the mRNA in it compared to Pfizer. The three doses may become the vaccine schedule for the coronavirus vaccination. Most vaccines, including polio, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, H. Flu, etc., all require 3 or 4 doses. The use of monoclonal antibodies is also encouraged. Of the four available monoclonal antibodies, three, plus the cocktails are effective against the Delta. However, they may not be effective with the immune escape variants of Gamma, Beta, and Delta Plus. Vaccines produce a myriad of different types of antibodies and are much better for infections by future variants. Finally, the supply of monoclonal antibodies is limited and they must be given soon after diagnosis to be effective. (8:31) Jack Pattie Show.   https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210927-JackPattie.htm    https://youtu.be/HbYriXnws90   
  

208.  Sept. 24, 2021. COVID-19: Strategies in Germany - Schools, Masks, Testing and Vaccinations
Doctor Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Dr. Sebastian Hoehl from the University Hospital in Frankfurt, Germany discuss COVID-19 precautions taken in Germany and the United States. Schools in Germany are open but if community rates are high students wear surgical grade masks (not cloth masks) in the classroom. Those unvaccinated (both students and teachers) are tested three times a week. Home rapid testing is readily available for the general public in Germany. Germany is currently vaccinating individuals down to the age of 12. They are using the Oxford Astrazeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccine for those 60 years of age and older and the mRNA vaccines for those below the age of 60. In the United States we are going to soon have the FDA decision on an Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer/BioNTech Vaccine for children down to age 5. So far the data shows the vaccine to be very safe in this age group and able to elicit a strong immunological response. Similar to the USA, Germany also has higher rates of COVID-19 in populations who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK FM 97.3 (13:05) https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210924-JackPattie.htm     https://youtu.be/TmzQabJ0IDo  
  
207.  Sept. 20, 2021. COVID-19: FDA Confusing EUA for Boosters
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the FDA's recent EUA (Emergency Use Authorization) approval process for boosters in those above the age of 65 and those who are at high risk for infection. After the vote, the FDA appeared to walk back their guidance and include individuals who are at high risk for occupational exposure to SARS-C0V-2. Pfizer also announced today that they are submitting data for approval of the vaccine in children who are 5 to 12 years of age. Jack Pattie Show.  Sept. 20, 2021. (3:14) https://youtu.be/g9vBHNnFaf8  
  

206.  Sept. 17, 2021. COVID-19: Booster Shot Decision
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health WatchUSAsm and Dr. William Schaffner from Vanderbilt Medical Center discuss the upcoming FDA decision regarding boosters. Other topics include the opening of schools in Kentucky and the need for a layered approach (masks, vaccinations, testing, bubbling); the monoclonal antibody shortage; and that antibody testing is not accurate in the determination of protection. Jack Pattie Show.  WVLK 97.3 FM  (15:45)  https://youtu.be/M07Q1wBDMvk    
  
205.  COVID-19: Misinformation on VAERS and Pfizer Trade Name Confusion.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses disinformation on using the VAERS reporting system to determine the incidence of vaccine deaths. Using this information, in Kentucky one would expect 180 deaths but I have not heard of any confirmed cases in Kentucky. There is also confusion made by Pfizer using a trade name when marketing their vaccine to those above the age of 16. Below ages of 16, Pfizer/BioNTech cannot yet use this name since the vaccine for this age group is only FDA authorized. Finally, even outdoors one needs to follow public health advice. Crowded stadiums with unmasked individuals are still at risk of spreading the Delta Variant. Screaming and shouting will create droplets which will not be expected to dissipate outdoors. Jack Pattie Show. (7:29) https://youtu.be/soC4l73ce6g    
  
204. Sept 10, 2021. COVID-19: Gain of Function Research
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers of Gain of Function Research. Other topics are the emergence of variants, the effect of vaccines on mutations and how outdoor gatherings can spread the viral illnesses. For vaccines to work, all must take them so community protection develops and mutations of the virus will not occur.
1:39 Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria are Increasing.
5:47 Outdoor events spreading variants. The Fourth-of-July celebrations.
7:38 Gain of Function Comments.
10:31 The Delta Variant was not caused by the Vaccine.
Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 97.3 FM.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210910-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/NMruGnnvNd0  
     

203.  Sept. 1, 2021. COVID-19: C.1.2 Variant May Decimate Herd Immunity

Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for everyone to become vaccinated. A new study finds that Natural Immunity is greater and lasts longer than immunity from the Pfizer Vaccine. But "greater" is not "great" both the vaccinated and naturally immune are susceptible to the Delta Variant. Two studies have now shown that past infection plus vaccination provides better protection. The Delta Variant has twice the rate of hospitalization as previous variants. Those not vaccinated are more likely to be hospitalized, admitted to the ICU and die. ICU admissions, the need for ventilation and deaths are almost entirely in the unvaccinated. Because hospitals are filled, those who require care for serious non-delta ailments may not be able to receive care. Since, the unvaccinated have a poorer prognosis, they may be on the wrong end of triage decisions. Because of the new variants, such as C.1.2, herd immunity is not possible, and we will experience continued waves of the coronavirus unless we follow public health strategies. Jack Pattie Show.  WVLK 97.3 FM.   https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210901-JackPattie.htm     https://youtu.be/vULye1DxJMY    
   
202.  Aug 30, 2021.  COVID-19: Many KY Schools Are Re-closing
Dr.Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the re-closing of schools and the recent death and hospitalizations (two on the ventilator) of Lee County School District Staff. The rush to open staff without proper preparation has placed undo risk to both our children and their school's teachers. Those policymakers who it was so important to rush to open schools should console the families of the dead and disabled of our frontline workers. Similar to what is being done with our front line soldiers protecting our nation, frontline workers risking their lives with COVID-19 need to be given similar support. Toopen schools safer the following needs to take place:
-- Lower Community Spread of the Virus
-- Podding of classes with smaller class sizes.
-- Increase complete air exchanges and air sensitization.
-- Twice weekly testing of all in schools (vaccinated and unvaccinated).
-- Wearing of high quality masks (KN95 and well-fitted N95 masks).
-- Options for hybrid classes, which will decrease class sizes and less student density will help lessen ventilation requirements.
-- Permanent options for teleschooling for high-risk students.
This virus is endemic, it is mutating and waves of immune-escape variants are to be expected in the future. We must plan for this occurrence. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/JLWXjme7g9Y   
  
201.  Aug 27, 2021.  COVID-19: Breakthrough Hospitalizations
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses breakthrough hospitalizations with COVID-19. Vaccines are protective but the New York Times reports 12% to 24% of COVID-19 hospitalizations are in vaccinated patients. Baptist Healthcare system reports a rate of 15%, the University of Kentucky reported a rate of 18% of current hospitalized patients. These patients would be expected to be those who are immunocompromised or greater than 60 years of age and more than 5 months post full vaccination. Similar to Kentucky's Governor, we need to up our game with the wearing of masks, using medical grade, KN95s or well-fitted N95 masks. The Surgeon General has recommended, high quality masks, upgrades to ventilation and testing in school systems. Medical disinformation is also a significant problem and has many of its roots in organized intelligence campaigns of foreign adversaries. (16:39) Jack Pattie Show. 97.3 FM.  https://youtu.be/gaBK4nhTmsc  
  
200.  Aug 23, 2021.  COVID-19: Early Vaccinated Elderly Are Dying.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the vaccination waning in the elderly. Jesse Jackson and his wife, fully vaccinated in January, were hospitalized with COVID-19. Past KY Rep. Brent Yonts recently passed away from COVID-19, was fully vaccinated in February. Boosters need to be given now. Finally, all need to wear masks. Misinformation states that masks will not filter small viruses. But the particles which are transferred between people are actually small droplets between the sizes of 10 to 100 microns. Masks can effectively stop these particles. Use a high-grade medical mask, KN95 or a well-fitted N95 mask. Jack Pattie Show.   https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210823-JackPattie.htm    https://youtu.be/8lUXWhSSvaQ  
 
199.  Aug. 20, 2021.  COVID-19: Should We Triage Unvaccinated to the End of the Line ?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the problem of vaccinated individuals postponing needed surgery for patients with COVID-19 who chose not to be vaccinated. Similar to Polio and Measles 90% of the public will have to be vaccinated and follow public health advice before the pandemic stops. With high community spread, the virus may undergo recombination, swapping RNA with another virus, and producing a super virus. Deaths are mounting, almost a million souls as measured by excess deaths. New Zealand views the pandemic seriously and closes down with just one case. Other countries have similar views such as Australia, S. Korea, Singapore and Taiwan. Schools cannot open safely with high community spread and test positivity rates above 12. Schools need to upgrade their ventilation systems, provide high quality N95 masks, twice weekly testing and small class sizes with hybrid teaching. SARS-CoV-2 is endemic and here to stay. Jack Pattie Show. FM 97.3. Aug. 20, 2021.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210820-JackPattie.htm       https://youtu.be/nUIchF4dwGQ   
    
198.  Aug. 16, 2021.  COVID-19: Strict Measures Needed
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine effectiveness with the recent data from Israel and the Mayo Clinic. The Ministry of Health in Israel reported Pfizer vaccine effectiveness to be 41% in preventing symptomatic infections. The vaccines have very good effectiveness in preventing deaths and hospitalizations. Individuals especially at risk are those who are immunosuppressed, have an organ transplant or are greater than 60 years old and 5 months out from vaccination. Even breakthrough infections which produce a mild to moderate infection can also produce long COVID affecting the heart, creating brain fog and weakness. All need to wear N95 masks and avoid indoor settings whenever possible. Schools need to upgrade their ventilation systems and provide N95 or high-grade medical quality masks to all students. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK FM 97.3   https://youtu.be/2I8zfbs474g    
    
197.  Aug. 13, 2021.  COVID-19: Ignoring Delta - Strategies to Say Safe
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the high infection rate of the Delta Variant and how we need to up our game in order to protect our children and prevent spread. All need to wear masks, vaccinated and unvaccinated. High quality masks work, they trap the aerosolized viral particles which are produced by talking and/or loud talking. These particles are coated by liquids and have a size between 10 and 100 micros. N95 masks are best, the next best are KN95 masks. There is also an electrostatic mechanism to trap even smaller particles. With high community spread indoor settings, including indoor dining, are best to avoid. High risk frontline workers need to wear N95 masks, goggles and gowns (or a jumpsuit). Also, good air circulation is key. This will decrease viral load making an infection less likely and if one does occur, hopefully less severe. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK FM 97.3  https://youtu.be/Q0BAjTLCHww   
  
196.  Aug. 9, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Vs Natural Immunity, COVID-19 in White Tail Deer
Dr. Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses COVID-19 along with new data which shows vaccine immunity can augment natural immunity and is stronger than natural immunity alone. In addition, the virus has invaded the white tail deer population and there are concerns the deer may become the natural host. Other topics include asymptomatic infections and the risks of myocarditis in the young.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210809-JackPattie.htm     https://youtu.be/0YYFSfNMTsw  

Timeline of Topics:
00:12:22 Vaccine VS Natural Immunity
02:24:23 Vaccine Boosters
04:10:00 Deaths from COVID-19 vs Vaccines
05:19:09 Myocarditis from COVID-19
08:00:00 COVID-19 White Tail Deer
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.07.29.454326v1 

Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. Aug. 9, 2021. https://youtu.be/0YYFSfNMTsw    
   
195. Aug. 2, 2021.  COVID-19: Do the Elderly Need Boosters?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new Israeli data which shows vaccine immunity waning in the elderly, especially those over 60 years of age if the last dose of the vaccine was received before Jan 31, 2021.  Israel is giving a thrid dosage or booster to the elderly.  Those with previous infections are also at risk, some report even higher for reinfection. In addition, the Delta Variant produces 1000 times more virons and we all should wear N95 masks, avoid indoor settings and even outdoors is not completely safe. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 2, 2021.  https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210802-JackPattie.htm    https://youtu.be/JG3IDqhyX2A   
 
194.  July 30, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Infecting All, But Killing Unvaccinated
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USA(sm) discusses the need for all to wear masks, practice social distancing and become vaccinated. The Delta Variant is commonly causing symptomatic breakthrough infections. Israeli data shows the Pfizer vaccine has a 39% effectiveness in preventing infection and a 40% effectiveness in preventing symptomatic infections. They are very good at preventing hospitalizations, and severe COVID-19 (along with death), with an 88% and 92% efficacy respectively. Those who have a breakthrough vaccine infection can spread the virus as easily as those who are unvaccinated and have an infection. The Delta variant produces up to 1000 times more virons than the wild-type virus. Jack Pattie Show. (14:18).   https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210730-JackPattie.htm     https://youtu.be/SwuGXPh_Y_Q 

Updated information regarding the CDC's report on the Cape Code outbreak indicates the Israeli data may be over optimistic. https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/cdc-74-of-covid-19-cases-in-cluster-happened-among-vaccinated
  
193.  July 26, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta is Here, Masks for All, Hybrid Classes
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the surging Delta Variant. Masks should be worn by all, even those vaccinated. It needs to be remembered that:
1. The Delta Variant is more than two times as infectious as the Wild-Type Virus. And it produces 1000 times more viral particles.
2. All should obtain a N95 mask, or at least a good medical grade mask.
3. Similar to the winter surge, avoid indoor settings.
4. Children are getting very sick and are becoming infected as reported by the Oklahoma University's Children's Hospital and the Mississippi Health Department. In Mississippi, 7 children are in the ICU and two on the ventilator.
5. Vaccine efficacy for preventing an infection approximates 60%. Our initial reports are in line with the data reported by Israel.
6. We need to remember the dangers of asymptomatic infection. Heart and vascular infections are often asymptomatic.
7. If the virus is spread by those vaccinated, it will not only infect others but will also mutate and eventually avoid the vaccines.
   
    Steps need to be taken to safely open schools. Similar to last year, all need to wear masks and hybrid program options should be available to all. All school districts need to upgrade their ventilation systems, reduce class sizes, and similar to Germany test everyone (vaccinated or unvaccinated) twice a week. And finally, an in home teleschool option should be offered. Jack Pattie Show. July 26, 2021. https://youtu.be/1tX8xYQ2o-A   
  
192.  July 23, 2021.  COVID-19: Peru Embracing Vaccines & Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm and Professor Patrick Palmieri from Peru discuss COVID-19. Vaccines are a sought after commodity in Peru. Dr. Palmieri is surprised that in the USA people are not taking advantage of their ability to access vaccinations. People in Peru are flocking to obtain vaccinations and obtaining vaccinations are at a very high rate. It is very concerning that many people in the United States are not waiting to obtain vaccinations. Peru has also embraced the strategy of using masking. Peru has an efficient public healthcare system which reaches out to residents, even with nurses on ponies to give vaccinations in homes. In the United States in-home vaccinations has unfortunately become controversial. In Peru, public health has not been politicized as it has been in the United States. Peru does have corruption in healthcare with fees being charged to access public ICUs. In the United States there is high costs in healthcare with little effective price transparency. The Lambda Variant is also discussed. (This presentation has been edited to focus on the healthcare information.) Jack Pattie Show. (10:18)  https://youtu.be/WVM5wnvTt5k   
  
191.  July 19, 2021.  2021-19: Delta Tightening Grip and Masks Not Required
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for all including the vaccinated to wear masks in indoor settings. Allowing those who are vaccinated to not wear masks also allowed the unvaccinated to not comply with masking requirements. In addition, there is mounting evidence that the Delta Variant can cause vaccine breakthrough infections. With this variant, vaccine effectiveness is in the mid 60% for the prevention of infections. In indoor settings we all need to wear masks. The Delta Variant also requires one to wear a high quality mask preferably an N-95 or medical grade mask. We need to prepare for living with this virus and future variants for years to come. This means upgrading our infrastructure and schools including ventilation systems, hybrid learning, small class sizes, podding and frequent testing on students and teachers. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. (7:35) https://youtu.be/dI_IsDBLpNo  
  
190.  July 16, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Surging in the United States
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discuses the Delta Variant. The Jack Pattie Show was one of the first to sound the alarm about this variant on June 2, 2021. Since then infections are starting to surge. All, even those vaccinated, need to wear masks and social distance. Reports indicate that the mRNA vaccines are 60% to 70% effective, meaning that even the vaccinated can become infected. However, they are less likely to be hospitalized and much less likely to die. Misinformation about this pandemic is a major problem and is being spread by both foreign adversaries and unfortunately some of our leaders. There are those who feel 80 to 85% of Kentucky's population is immune and herd immunity may have been reached. Schools need to prepare to live with this virus. Schools need to spend allocated funds on upgrading ventilation and testing. In Germany, every student and staff are tested twice a week. And we must not set our goal at the prevention of death. This is a low bar for good public health. A large Veterans Health Administration study found that between 30 days and 6 months non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients had 59% increased risk of dying. Long COVID-19 can affect almost every organ of the body including the heart, liver, kidney and brain. Jack Pattie Show. (16:10) https://youtu.be/pFCPUfBOoa4
  
189.  July 12, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccinations Are Preventing Deaths
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Delta Variant and how the current mRNA vaccines appear to have good efficacy in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. Those vaccinated can still catch the disease and there is a possibility of developing long COVID. Thus, if vaccinated it is still advisable to wear a mask in poorly ventilated indoor settings. In addition, all need to wear a mask on public transportation, especially air travel. Airports are crowded facilities with international travelers which maybe carrying other variants such as the Lambda Variant. At this stage, with cases re-surging in many states in the United States, caution is the best advice. Jack Pattie Show. (3:40) https://youtu.be/wLWLX2bMw-A   
  
188.  July 9, 2021.  COVID-19: Are We Ignoring the Delta Variant?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the politicalization of the Delta Variant and how the July 4th celebration is a setup to spread the variant and worsen the pandemic. The Delta Variant is at least twice as infectious and is infecting the young. The vaccines prevent almost all hospitalizations and deaths but still up to 35% of vaccinated individuals can become infected and may spread the disease. In addition, they are at risk for long-COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (15:34) https://youtu.be/RaLOzrEgV-k   
  
187.  July 2, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Variant Spiking Cases in The United Kingdom
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the impending surge in the United States which may be caused by the Delta Variant when people congregate indoors in Aug or the Fall. In the United Kingdom, despite having over 60% of the adult population fully vaccinated, cases are spiking similar to the level they were over the Thanksgiving Holidays. In Singapore, an elimination strategy resulted in the almost complete disappearance of multiple types of viral infections, including COVID-19, flu, adenovirus, rhinoviruses, and enteroviruses. With relaxations of their COVID-19 strategies, many viral infections returned after several weeks, but the flu remains all but absent. If the United States performed as well as Singapore, we would have under 2000 deaths, total for the entire pandemic. Vaccines need to be viewed as a layer of protection, but one an still become infected with the Delta Variant if vaccinated. The WHO recommends those vaccinated continue to wear masks and social distance. Vaccines will prevent most severe disease and hospitalizations. But people can still develop mild to moderate infections. Long COVID-19 has recently been reported to occur in 27% of those with COVID-19 who were not hospitalized and in 19% of those with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections (Study from FAIR Health). Bottom line, get vaccinated and continue to observe public health strategies to avoid COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show.  (17:13)  https://youtu.be/0CgxOnLmfOc    
  
186.  June 28, 2021.  COVID-19: The Delta Strain Is Coming & Vaccines Will Help To Protect You
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of being vaccinated to protect against the Delta Strain. This strain is twice as infectious as the original variant and is thought to cause more severe disease. It is also more likely to invade the younger generation. The mRNA vaccines are greater than 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations and 80% effective in preventing systems (Public Health of England).
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system
/uploads/attachment_data/file/996740/
Variants_of_Concern_VOC_Technical_Briefing_17.pdf
 
However, one still needs to follow public health advice to prevent Long COVID-19. New research out of Norway has found that "52% (32/61) of home-isolated young adults, aged 16–30 years, had symptoms at 6 months, including loss of taste and/or smell (28%, 17/61), fatigue (21%, 13/61), dyspnea (13%, 8/61), impaired concentration (13%, 8/61) and memory problems (11%, 7/61)" https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-021-01433-3    Jack Pattie Show. June 28, 2021. (5:45) https://youtu.be/IbC3EYjRWUA  
  
185.  June 25, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta and Delta Plus Variants
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine efficacy with the Delta and Delta Plus Variants. The R0 for the Delta Plus is greater than 6, meaning that every infected individual will on average spread it to 6 other individuals. This virus is aerosolized but the vaccines still appear to afford protection. The Public Health of England found that the vaccines are over 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations and 80% effective in preventing symptoms from the Delta Variant. The Delta Plus Variant may be more problematic and more data is needed. In addition, these new variants seem to be causing more illness in the young, making it even more important for those over 12 to be vaccinated. Jack Pattie Show. June 25, 2021. (13:31). https://youtu.be/w4_R3TlL1Gc 
 
184.  June 21, 2021. COVID-19: Delta Plus Variant (AY.2) in the USA
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the spreading of the Delta Variant in the United States. The Delta Variant is over twice as infectious as the wild type of virus and affects both the young and old. It is several iterations away from last year's virus so you need to have your immunity as high as possible. This means getting both doses of the mRNA vaccine and if you had COVID-19 last year, you still need to become vaccinated. The vaccines are reported to be 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations but one also needs to continue to follow public health advice since one can develop long COVID with even mild to moderate infections. A new study from Oxford, England has described anatomical changes in the CNS caused by COVID-19. A new Delta Variant, the Delta Plus Variant (AY.2) has also entered the United States. It may be able to evade the immunity more but it is unknown if it will be able to effectively spread in the community. The bottom line, get fully vaccinated and continue to follow public health advice. Jack Pattie Show. June 21, 2021. (5:50)  https://youtu.be/CgfAhZ5vW60

Related Infection Control Today Article: https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/view/we-might-ignore-the-delta-variant-but-it-s-not-ignoring-the-u-s-   
    
183.  June 18, 2021.  COVID-19: Delta Variant Is Spreading & Its Dangers Ignored By Many
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers imposed by the Delta Variant and how it is rapidly spreading in the United States. The United States is falling behind other countries in its approach to controlling COVID-19. The United Kingdom, despite having a third of the deaths per capita than the United States, is delaying reopening. The mRNA vaccines are 90% effective (if you receive both doses) against the Delta Variant. Vaccines provide both personall and community protection. Unfortunately, the low vaccination rates in the United States are preventing effective community protection and the stopping of viral spread. Misinformation is also rampant, such as children not spreading the virus. In Germany, it is mandatory that all school age children are tested twice a week for COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. (12:13)   https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210618-JackPattie.htm   https://youtu.be/5cWCdgTP52E  
    
COVID-19 Strategies Used in Germany: https://youtu.be/_9is03QomGI
      
182. June 16, 2021. COVID-19: A Worldwide View
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm gives an overview of COVID-19 strategies used around the world and discusses the "freedom" and "antivaxxer" movements in many countries. Federated countries such as the United States, Spain and Australia have approached the virus differently. In Spain, there is a large "freedom" movement, or one's personal freedom has precedent over public health advisement. The country does not have a large antivaxxer movement. In Australia, the territories formed a national committee, composed largely of scientists, to oversee the country's pandemic response and there is good acceptance to this effort by their public. The final result is that Australia, a country of 25 million, has only 910 COVID-19 deaths. If the United States had a similar performance in stopping the virus, we would have had under 12,000 deaths in total. Jack Pattie Show. June 16, 2021. Conference presentations to be posted on www.healthconference.org website over the ensuing weeks. https://youtu.be/NvkJb5OsJLU   
  
181. June 11, 2021. CLOVID-19: Should Masking Stop ?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the advantages of continuing to use masks to reduce the spread of other respiratory pathogens. Also, the need and safety for vaccinations in children is discussed along with the risks of myocarditis with COVID-19 and long haulers syndrome. Finally, advantages regarding the continued use of masks to reduce respiratory pathogens such as the flu and colds is discussed along with the need for those who are immunosuppressed, especially transplantation patients to continue to follow public health advice and wear masks. Jack Pattie Show.  (11:41)  https://youtu.be/J071AZ2LtOk  
 
180.  June 7, 2021. COVID-19: Kentucky Falling Behind in Vaccinations
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm stresses the importance of receiving vaccinations. In Kentucky, we were at one time ahead of the national average, now we are falling behind. And in pockets in rural areas the vaccination rate is very low. Children between the ages of 12 and 18 do not fall ill as often as adults but do readily spread the virus. Older children also need to be vaccinated. The Indian (Delta) and Brazilian (Gamma) Variants are now expanding in the United States, making vaccinations even more imperative. Jack Pattie Show. (4:36) https://www.healthwatchusa.net/Videos-JackPattie/20210607-JackPattie.htm     https://youtu.be/8ffHQS2nP-U    
   
179.  June 4, 2021.  COVID-19: The Fauci E-Mails, Masks & Wuhan Lab
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the changing guidance and science of wearing masks along with the growing concerns of the Wuhan Lab. Spread of disease was usually viewed in a dichotomy of being either large droplets or very small aerosols (less than 5 microns). We now know this is a continuum, and the size of particles which spread COVID-19 appear to be between 10 to 100 microns which are small droplets which can aerosolize. Thus, a well constructed well fitted cloth mask will give some protection. Other topics include:
 
0:00 - Health Watch USA's International COVID-19 Infectious Disease Webinar.
1:44 - Dr. Fauci and the science behind the recommendations regarding the use of masks.
4:38 - The Wuhan Lab as a possible source of the virus.
9:16 - Myocarditis and COVID-19 Vaccines
11:15 - A Patient With Long COVID.
12:57 - Indian and other escape variants in the USA. The website: https://outbreak.info/ and the strategies the United Kingdom is using with the Indian Variant.
14:40 - Why those who have had COVID-19 should still be vaccinated.

Jack Pattie Show. June 4, 2021. https://youtu.be/pMFiDEO1bSo   
 
178.  June 2, 2021.  COVID-19: Indian Variant Is Here !!
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new data from the WHO which found the Indian (double mutation) variant to have increased from 1% to 7% of genomic sequenced samples in the United States. The CDC is mitigating the information about this virus and has not declared it a virus of "concern". However, the increasing prevalence of the Indian Variant in the United States makes it imperative for everyone, including those with a previous infection from the wild type virus, to become vaccinated. The most up to date data is WHO data from https://outbreak.info/  Jack Patty Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:46)   https://youtu.be/37FY7wcnWxk   
   
177.  May 28, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Failure in Transplant Patients  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for everyone, including those who previously had COVID-19, to become vaccinated. Offshore immune escape variants are a major concern. In addition, about 3 to 4 percent of the population has an immunodeficiency and may not have a good immune response to the vaccine. Other topics discussed are the investigation into the Wuhan Lab, hybrid class rooms & work places, and the risks of our open borders. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. May 28, 2021. https://youtu.be/RAeoKDg7dIU   
  
176.  May 24, 2021.  COVID-19: Anti-Vaxxers Preventing The Pandemic From Ending ?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the unwise example set by Senator Paul by declining COVID-19 vaccination. Senator Paul does not have assured protection with natural immunity from an asymptomatic to mild infection from the wild type virus more than a year ago. Dr. Paul's concern over the escape of an enhance virus from a Wuhan lab may be valid, but to mitigate the dangers of COVID-19 and at the same time warn of the escape of an enhanced virus produces conflicting narratives. Jack Pattie Show. May 24, 2021. (5:24) https://youtu.be/CxT811Gdseo    
   
175.  May 21, 2021.  COVID-19: Booster Is Needed In 9 to 12 Months
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for a booster in 9 to 12 months. In total people may need to take 4 shots. Two for the original vaccine, another for a booster and a fourth for the E484K (South African) Variants. Also discussed was the origins of the virus and that being accidentally released from the Wuhan Lab cannot be ruled out. Finally, we must prepare for the next pandemic with upgrading building air quality, mask & PPE production, and the ability to do robust testing, including genomic sequencing. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. May 21, 2021. (13:21) https://youtu.be/SkFU9AkLnt4  
    
174.  May 17, 2021. COVID-19: USA Unmasking. Are We Moving Too Fast?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the CDC's unexpected announcement of no longer recommending the wearing of masks indoors for vaccinated individuals. This caught many policymakers by surprise since just two days prior a modeling study published in the CDC MMWR predicted that there may be a surge in hospitalizations and deaths if masking was no longer used as a preventative measure. With only a little over a third of our population fully vaccinated, some have justified this discussion by stating, those at risk have chosen not to be vaccinated. But this ignores the dangers of the India Variant which now has a strong foothold in the United Kingdom and the ravages and disability costs of long COVID. But most importantly this is simply unethical. Jack Pattie Show. May 17, 2021. WVLK AM 590. (5:58) https://youtu.be/D7f6dsXkOWU    
  
173.  May 14, 2021, COVID-19: Is The CDC's New Mask Guidance Too Cavalier?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm expresses concern regarding the new CDC guidance which does not require vaccinated individuals to wear masks indoors. He agrees with the states of New Jersey, North Carolina and Massachusetts which are still keeping the indoor mask mandate. This position change comes on the heels of Dr. Nancy Messonnier's resignation which was effective today. The United States has not dealt with the immune escape variants and only a little over a third of our population is vaccinated. In addition, ventilation needs to be upgraded in buildings and a mechanism for verification of vaccination needs to be implemented. We also appear to have lowered the bar on what is good public health. Survival does not equate with recovery and severe sequelae from long haulers' syndrome is all too common. Even if vaccinated I do not want to become sick for a week with a variant just because I entered a restaurant to buy a $5 hamburger. We can do better than this. Jack Pattie Show. May 14, 2021. WVLK AM 590. (15:16)  https://youtu.be/X5_7BljQENk   
  
172.  May 12, 2021,  COVID-19: Pfizer Approved For Older Children
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent FDA authorization for the Pfizer Vaccine, allowing it to be given to 12 to 15 year olds and how their receiving the vaccine is crucial for us to be able to achieve herd immunity. In addition, in the future, we will have to have a booster; possibly two shots, one for the wild type or original virus and another the immunity evading variants. Finally, the pandemic has been transformative and we will return to a new, not an old, normal with many workers and businesses embracing a blended work from home strategy. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/DPOYEOxwXpA   
  
171.  May 10, 2021, COVID-19: CDC Recognizes The Virus Can Aerosolize - Its Airborne
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the CDC's new web-posting on Friday May 7, 2021 which clearly describes the risks of aerosolization and that the virus can spread further than 6 feet from infected individuals. Indoors it can float around in a building and nowhere would be truly safe. Outdoors these aerosols rapidly dissipate but large droplet spread within 6 feet can still occur. Currently, there have been up to 900,000 deaths in the United States as reported by IHME. http://www.healthdata.org/special-analysis/estimation-excess-mortality-due-covid-19-and-scalars-reported-covid-19-deaths   We all need to become vaccinated. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:31) https://youtu.be/LBeZaUYWM6c    
    
170.  May 7, 2021.  COVID-19: Are We Reopening Too Soon?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses concerns that we are opening too rapidly. One of the prerequisites to the opening of schools and businesses should be better indoor air quality. We need to stop the spread of COVID-19 with a combination of public health strategies, vaccinations and wearing masks. With the new higher tier variants all are at risk of becoming infected although those vaccinated are at a lower risk of developing severe disease or dying. Moderna has announced two additional vaccines later this year. One is a booster for the wild type of virus, the other targeted to the South African Variant. And despite COVID-19 and the concerns it creates we all need to attend medical appointments and continue getting our healthcare checkups. This is of utmost importance. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. 590. May 7, 2021. https://youtu.be/bmVZEkyHOxA  
  
169.  May 5, 2021.  COVID-19: The Kentucky Derby, A Super-Spreader Event Waiting to Happen
The Kentucky Derby with over 51,000 packed outdoors is a setup for a super spreader event. Outdoors helps to protect against aerosolization but within 6 feet droplet spread can easily occur. Even more concerning was that individuals from around the nation. We all need to get vaccinated so we can slow down community spread and achieve herd immunity. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. May 5, 2021. (3:33) https://youtu.be/o8lTRNVwsXo
  
168.  May 3, 2021.  COVID-19: Lessons From India & Misinformation of Vaccine Shedding
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses lessons all should learn from India, including:

1. The virus is real and much more dangerous than the flu.
2. Hydroxychloroquine which is used to treat malaria doesn't appear to have a huge effect on the India epidemic.
3. Large religious and political gatherings, even if outdoors will spread the virus.
4. There is a huge price to pay for herd immunity which because of the ever mutating virus will probably never be achieved.
5. The entire world must control the virus or no country will be safe. The CDC needs support and funding for foreign outreach and support.

In addition, the rates of vaccine hesitancy in the United States are disturbing with almost half of the armed forces and over half of law enforcement being vaccine hesitant. And new misinformation regarding vaccines, such as vaccine shedding are also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. (6:47). https://youtu.be/r2QGi-Gfsac  
 
167.  Apr. 30, 2021.  COVID-19: Crushing India and the Seasonal Flu
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses a variety of topics from Vaccine Hesitancy, the Seasonal Flu, and India. Time Line:
1) 00.07 - About Health Watch USA and Our COVID-19 Conference at www.healthconference.org.
2) 01:49 - Vaccine hesitancy compounded with the J & J hold.
3) 02:24 - COVID-19 crushed the seasonal flu. COVID-19 is more infectious and public health measures slowed down COVID-19 and almost eliminated the flu.
4) 10:13 - People have a difficult time judging risks.
5) 10:00 - You can get flu plus COVID-19, but it is rare.
6) 10:54 - School Vaccinations.
7) 13:37 - Expansion of our Public Healthcare System is needed.
8) 14:08 - Fully vaccinated can hug grand-kids.
9) 14:26 - When will the pandemic end?
Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Apr. 30, 2021. (15:44) https://youtu.be/ZYFQvfmOrCs   
  
166.  Apr. 28, 2021.  COVID-19: Relaxation of Outdoor Masking Recommendations
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the relaxation of outdoor masking requirements in Kentucky. Currently, masks are required at outdoor events at over 1000 individuals. Dr. Kavanagh recommends caution and reviewed the CDC guidelines which state masks should be warn at large outdoor events but not required at small events. In between there is a gray area dependent upon crowding and the risk tolerance of the individual. Over the last month, in Kentucky COVID cases and hospitalizations have largely plateaued. Over this time we have vaccinated many Kentuckians but the virus is mutating and working harder to spread infections. Thus, if we want to lower rates we all need to become fully vaccinated, one dose is not enough. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 690 (3:27) https://youtu.be/HIuzhDRjbtY   
 
165.  Apr.  26, 2021.  COVID-19: Things Improving - Vaccine Hesitancy Persists
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the slow improvement in COVID-19 statistics and how this is related to highly effective vaccines. Vaccine Hesitancy is threatening our recovery and everyone needs to be vaccinated and obtain both doses. Two doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine are needed to give protection against the E484K variants. India has a severe COVID-19 outbreak which is devastating their society. We need to avoid this fate and all become vaccinated. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:16) https://youtu.be/7AQwx-Si_IY
  
164.  Apr. 23, 2021.  COVID-19: Variant Outbreak In Highly Vaccinated Kentucky Nursing Home
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh of Health Watch USAsm discusses the outbreak of the E484K variant in an Eastern Kentucky Nursing Home which was caused by an unvaccinated healthcare worker. 90% of the 83 Nursing Home Residents were vaccinated. 50% of the unvaccinated residents required hospitalization compared to 2.8% of vaccinated residents. All healthcare workers should be vaccinated in nursing homes. In addition, the risks versus benefits of family visitations with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated grandchildren are discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. April 23, 2021. https://youtu.be/lDFaENgiMhQ    
 
163.  Apr. 21, 2021.  COVID-19: Soap & Water Kills The Virus
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses new CDC guidelines on the cleaning of surfaces and how soap and water can be used and will also disrupt the protein-lipid capsule of the virus, killing it. Also, announced is Health Watch USA's large international Webinar on COVID-19. The Keynote Speaker is Acting Deputy Secretary Carolyn Clancy. For more information go to www.healthconference.org Finally, an update on the J & J vaccine is given. Jack Pattie Show. April 21, 2021. WVLK AM 590. (4:40) https://youtu.be/5CHGICM8AEo   
 

162.  Apr. 19, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Passports
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine passports along with the vaccine hesitancy created by the J & J vaccine being placed on hold. In Kentucky, there are almost 10,000 unfilled appointments and 500 thousand vaccine dosages in storage. Jack Pattie Show. (3:51)https://youtu.be/W5_RMqiZK4Y   
      
161.  Apr. 16, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Safety & Misinformation
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the excellent track record for the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines, including the J & J (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. There have been incredibly few serious complications. Misinformation continues to spread on the internet, including an unfounded claim that vaccines cause variants. Vaccines reduce viral spread which will reduce variant formation. However, with the EeK (E484K) mutations post vaccination infections, although usually mild can occur, thus spread and mutations can happen, but at a lower rate than in an vaccinated individual. This is why one should wear a mask even if vaccinated. In addition, the question on when we will be out of the pandemic, depends largely on our population's behavior. If we do not adopt public health advice and keep spreading the virus, it may be quite some time. Jack Pattie Show. Apr. 16, 2021. (10:34). https://youtu.be/3qpKfgS4-iw   
   
160.  Apr. 14, 2021.  COVID-19: J & J Vaccine, Variants Create an Uncertain Future
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses his concerns with the decision to place the Johnson & Johnson Vaccine on hold due to blood clots which occur in less than one in a million individuals, with one death. Holding a vaccine which has been shown in clinical trails to mitigate disease with the South African Variant may be ill advised since far more citizens may die of COVID-19 and the decision will promote anti-vaxxer narratives. In addition the decision of the Governor to tie vaccinations to opening of the Kentucky economy was discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590 (5:21) https://youtu.be/Q3ZBfIdmKrI  
 
159.  Apr. 9, 2021.  COVID-19: Anti-Maskers and Anti-Vaxxers
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm responds to anti-maskers and anti-vaxxers. Most of the deniers are viewing the issues with all or none thinking and have a hard time judging risk. Dr. Kavanagh explains with the new E484K variants one needs to be vaccinated AND wear masks. And to caller who does not want to be experimented on, well, we are all in the experiment. The caller just chose to be in the control group, and that group is not doing too well with long COVID-19. The sequelea of death may not happen but this is a very low bar for existence, long-term disability and symptoms commonly result even in those with mild infections. Jack Pattie Show. Apr. 9, 2021. (18:04) https://youtu.be/BZjbVwHqKOI   
  
158.  Apr. 7, 2021.  COVID-19: UK Testing Entire Nation Twice a Week
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how some other nations are taking the COVID-19 pandemic much more seriously. The UK is offering twice a week testing for their entire nation and Canada has travel restrictions on all individuals entering their nation with a two week quarantine. In addition, we need to be testing our children in schools, in Fayette County School System temperature checks of children were suspended. This is probably not a bad idea since there is a very high rate of asymptomatic carriage in children and community viral spread is decreasing. However, expanded testing is needed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590 (4:12) https://youtu.be/vbYH6tlVF0M  
 
157.  Apr. 5, 2021.  COVID-19: Variants Cause Confusion
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm explains that the variants can partially evade the vaccines. Thus, although vaccines are expected to make the severity of illness less, they will not reliably prevent infection with the new variants or spread of the virus. Thus, even if you are vaccinated, wear a mask. And be sure to get vaccinated. In addition, ivermectin was discussed and it has been found to not be effective in treating COVID-19. Jack Pattie Show. April 5, 2021. (4:30) https://youtu.be/6eY0ce9m0ZU   
 
156.  Apr. 2, 2021.  COVID-19: Double Escape Mutation in India Variant
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how in the United States young children are driving the spread of COVID-19 viral variants. In addition, there is a variant in India which has two immunity escape mutations, one which is also found on the California Variant and another which is similar to the one found on the New York/South African variants. The India variant is very worrisome and needs to be followed carefully. In addition, everyone should continue to follow public health advisements and to be careful with handling groceries. Proper ventilation in all buildings is a must. If there is not a contraindication, all should be vaccinated. Vaccines do not change one's DNA or the genetic makeup of the cell. Jack Pattie Show. April 4, 2021. (13:16) https://youtu.be/0knI82tERfM  
 
155.  Mar. 31, 2021.  COVID-19: Impending 4th Wave Doom In the United States?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the "Impending Doom" prophecy and that we may not be in that bleak of a situation. If one looks at Europe, the countries which are experiencing the surge have few individuals in the population who have received the vaccine. In the United Kingdom, almost 50% of the population have received the vaccine and rates are falling and restrictions are being eased. The CDC is giving mixed messages with verbal warnings but recommendations which are too lax. Actions should focus on stressing the use of N95 masks and implementing standards for increasing the safety of indoor ventilation. In schools, upgrading ventilation is a suggested strategy which can be implemented but not a standard. Wolfe County School System in Kentucky has upgraded their HVAC systems and placed portable filtration units in rooms. Other schools systems need to follow their lead. Jack Pattie Show. Mar. 21, 2021. (4:21) https://youtu.be/Pk1_y8UliyA   
 
154.  Mar. 29, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Passports
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the proposed vaccine passports and how other countries may require them for entry. Passports may potentially be used within the United States. He stresses that although there can be debate regarding Federal Mandates, the rights of business owners to protect their staff and patrons and communities to protect their citizens is of paramount importance. The importance of vaccination is stressed and the example of the untimely death of Representative Elect Luke Letlow is discussed. Jack Pattie Show. (4:24) https://youtu.be/RGU6nV9rWXc  
 
153.  Mar. 26, 2021. COVID-19: Vaccine Hesitancy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses vaccine hesitance and reasons why African-Americans should take the vaccine. For protection against the variants all should take the vaccine, even if one has had COVID-19. There is now good safety data and the NIH/FDA scrutenizes safety and effecacy data. Not all vaccines will be approved. In addition, the dangers posed by the variants has underscored the need not to relax regulations such as CMS/s revised Nursing Home Visitations Standards. Jack Pattie Show. Mar. 26, 2021. WVLK AM 590. (13:19) https://youtu.be/RxDgxIgkhYA  
  
152.  Mar. 24, 2021. COVID-19:  Europe Going Into Lockdown, More Problems with the AstraZeneca Vaccine
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how a resurgence in COVID-19 has Europe imposing increasing restrictions. Europe is not nearly as highly vaccinated as the United States and England. In England there are 45 vaccination doses given out per 100 people and their cases are going down. So let's get vaccinated. The AstraZeneca Vaccine has come under fire again for submitting old and incomplete data to the NIH. This vaccine has a history of problems with their initial clinical trials when by mistake a group of patients received a lower vaccine dosage but had better results and with a reported decrease in its efficacy against the South African variant. The South African variant has the E484K mutation which avoids immunity. This mutation is also found in the Brazilian, the New UK and New York Variants. A similar mutation, L452R, is found in the California variant which also helps to avoid immunity. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/tSP6ES7APSM 
 
151.  Mar. 22, 2021. COVID-19: Reinfections With The New York, Brazilian and South African Variants.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the E484K immunity escape mutation, which is being reported to cause reinfections in South Africa and New York State. This mutation is found in the Brazilian, South African, New UK and New York Variants. In addition the AstraZeneca Vaccine did not appear to have high effectiveness against the South African Variant and thus its effectiveness against the New York variants has to be questioned. The California Variant has a similar mutation, L452R, to help evaded immunity. Jack Pattie Show.  WVLK AM 590. (6:23) https://youtu.be/6kq39AUnMog 
  
150.  Mar. 19, 2021.  COVID-19: Antimaskers And Variant Reinfections with Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of wearing a mask even if vaccinated. The looming variants can still cause infections and spread in those who are vaccinated, but vaccinations appear to give protection against death and hospitalizations. Of concern is the statement by Dr. Fauci that having an infection with the common strain of the virus gives no protection to infections from the South African Variant. The New York Strain which is fast becoming the most common strain in New York share some of the mutations to avoid the immune system with the South African Strain. Timeline of discussion:
  00:10 Under Reporting of Deaths.
  02:37 Underestimation of Deaths and Excess Death Data
  04:80 Vaccinations not 100% protection from variants.|
  06:07 Vaccinations provide good protection from deaths and hospitalizations caused by variants. KY vaccinated nursing home outbreak is discussed.
  11:49 Wearing a make in the car and while on Zoom.
  12:48 The AstraZenica/Oxford Vaccine.
  14:22 Countering arguments with an antimasker. Discussed mask filtration, viral dosage, fit and utility of two masks.
Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Mar. 19, 2021 (18:13) https://youtu.be/qOagCnXlz0c  
   
149.  Mar. 17, 2021.   COVID-19: Possible New Variant Causes Outbreak in Highly Vaccinated Nursing Home
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent outbreak in a Kentucky Nursing Home caused by what appears to be a new variant which has the potential to at least partially evade the vaccines. Variants are starting to cause COVID-19 surges in other countries and are suspected as a possible cause of increasing cases in several States. To make matters worse, the many young people traveling for spring break has the potential of spreading these variants around the nation. The young have a lower fatality rate but are still susceptible to developing Long-Haulers syndrome which has recently been reported in up to 25% of mild COVID-19 cases. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK 590 AM. https://youtu.be/LtJlJSiHKw8   
    
148.  Mar. 15, 2021. COVID-19: Spring Break Versus Variants
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the problems posed by spring break travel, composed of mostly young unvaccinated individuals. Florida has a high incidence of variants and these vacationers may spread the variants around the nation. In addition, the young can frequently develop long-haulers' syndrome. Persistent symptoms are reported in almost 25% of individuals who had asymptomatic or mild illnesses. To complicate matters, disinformation about vaccines abounds and is being promoted by Russian disinformation campaigns. In Colorado, 88% of Democrats plan to get vaccinated as compared to 29% of Republicans. Also discussed is the recent surge in Italy and the dangers imposed by the New York Variant. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590. (7:04) https://youtu.be/C9m8KYc09nQ   
 
147.  Mar. 12, 2021.  COVID-19: Concerns With CMS New Guidance For Nursing Home Visitations

Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses concerns over CMS's new guidance for opening visitation to nursing homes. In addition, a variety of other topics are discussed.
00:47 - Vaccine Dosage Schedule.
02:02 - Concerns With CMS's Nursing Home Guidelines.
05:06 - Should you get Two Doses of J&J Vaccine or Both Types of Vaccines?
09:02 - Cotton Masks May Work Better Than Originally Thought.
10:01 - Do Vaccines Protect Against Asymptomatic Carriage of the Virus?
12:24 - Does the Vaccine Stay in Your Arm?
13:32 - Brazil and Europe Having New COVID-19 Surges.
Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/Jg_1M5JkOig
 
146. 
Mar. 10, 2021.  COVID-19: CDC Relaxing Guidelines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses CDC's guideline relaxation for those who are vaccinated. If vaccinated, one does not have to wear a mask if around grandchildren or with a small group from a single household, with no high risk individuals. Travel is still discouraged from fear of spreading variants. The good news is that research indicates that vaccinations also will inhibit asymptomatic spread. Jack Pattie Show. (5:55) https://youtu.be/c0-5FLxXJ4o  
  
145.  Mar. 8, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccine Hesitancy is Waning
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how vaccine hesitancy is subsiding and it is a race between getting people vaccinated and the spread of the variants. We want to see a continued decrease in cases and not the surge which was observed in the United Kingdom, so wear masks and social distance. In addition topics of Long Hauler Syndrome in children and new COVID-19 treatments are discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:28) https://youtu.be/CmBbppi7Svg   
  
144.  Mar. 5, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccines Versus The Variants
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the susceptibility of the new variants to the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines (timeline 4:30). The utility of UV lighting is also discussed (timeline 0:19) and the need for vaccinations (timeline 2:03). Listeners were encouraged to obtain vaccinations and register for the CDC's V-Safe program. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (14:39)  https://youtu.be/tOSReqhd6mE   
 
143.  Mar. 1, 2021.  COVID-19: It's Airborne !
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new Johnson & Johnson vaccine. This vaccine is a DNA vaccine which makes mRNA in the cells and mRNA then makes the viral spike protein. In addition, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine trials had no one who required hospitalization and no one died. And the trail was also run in South Africa, so it is presumably effective against the South African Variant. In addition, Dr. Kavanagh discusses the concerns over aerosolization of COVID-19 and the recent letter sent by top US Scientists to the White House and CDC advising for stronger work safety standards, use of N95 masks, better ventilation (more air exchanges and air sanitization) and abandonment of stopgap measures such as mask resterilization. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/LI9mpBYwUtI    
 
142.  Feb. 26, 2021.  COVID-19: Vaccines & Variants
Dr Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses why it is important to receive the vaccine, that even if you have COVID-19, it is important to be vaccinated since the vaccines will provide greater immunity and the second vaccine dose will provide protection from the variants.   Also the differences between the Johnson & Johnson, Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech Vaccines are discussed. (The soundtrack has been edited to reflect that the J & J vaccine is a DNA vaccine.) Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/1fDF9jnOA4g   
  
141.  Feb. 22, 2021.  COVID-19: As Deaths Exceed 500,000, We are Opening Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses what needs to be done when we open schools as the total COVID-19 deaths in the United States exceeds 500,000. Of importance is the National Academy of Science's findings that SARS-CoV-2 is aerosolized, making it imperative that all wear well-fitted masks and that proper attention is given to increase complete air exchanges and air sanitization. In addition, students should be in small class sizes with frequent testing and contact tracing needs to be available for positive cases and exposures. With the new variants emerging, we need to exercise caution. Indoor school contact sports is problematic. Our primary focus should be to have children return to school safely. Jack Pattie Show. Feb. 222, 2021. (5:06) Jack Pattie Show.  (5:06) https://youtu.be/igfMef6G6Hw  
 
140.  2021, Feb. 19:  COVID-19: White House Task Force Disbanded.
Dr. Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses a variety of topics including new data on vaccine efficacy, viral aerosolization and calls for more stricter CDC regulations.
-- (Timeline 1:12) Vaccines found to be effective after the first dose.
-- (Timeline 3:17) The National Academy of Sciences' findings of viral aerosolization and the need for better masks and ventilation. This has led to the CDC to recommend the wearing of two masks to make sure the first one fits well.
-- (Timeline 5:45) President Biden has dissolved the coronavirus advisory panel. Two of the members have submitted a letter to the White House and CDC requesting more attention being giving to the dangers of aerosolization of COVID-19 and to providing N-95 masks to all frontline workers.
-- (Timeline 9:05) Estimated Life Expectancy in the United States has fallen by 1 year and there are almost 600,000 excess deaths from COVID-19.
-- (Timeline 11:34) Vit C, Zinc and Vit D, do they help?
-- (Timeline 12:28) Disparities in Healthcare.
Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Feb. 19, 2021. https://youtu.be/dxeWxqhaPgE  
 
139.  2021, Feb. 17: COVID-19: When two masks should be used & Healthy Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the CDC advisements on wearing two masks and that they are not needed if one wears a KN95 or N95 mask. The second mask's main utility is to improve the fit of the first mask. In addition, it was stressed that healthy school buildings and small class sizes are an imperative. The importance of wearing masks in schools along with upgrading ventilation systems to promote better complete air exchanges and air sanitization is discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Feb. 17, 2021. https://youtu.be/FdJldLjwJE4         
   
138.  2021, Feb. 15:  COVID-19: Rates of COVID-19 are Falling
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the falling rates in COVID-19 infections and deaths.  We need to keep following public health advice of wearing well-fitted masks and social distancing. Vaccines are supposed to work on the UK Variant but they may not be as effective on the Brazilian and South African Variants. Pfizer is almost doubling vaccine production so the general public may be able to be vaccinated soon. Jack Pattie Show. Feb. 15, 2021. (4:13) https://youtu.be/b3PKGQadw-A
  
137.  2021, Feb. 12: COVID-19: Are Two Masks Better Than One?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the advantage of wearing two masks and stresses the importance of a well-fitting first mask. In addition, travel bans on travelers from South Africa and South America are discussed. Good news is also present, with more vaccines being ordered and vaccine delivery schedules being moved up. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/BnUfICKudF0   
  
136. 2021, Feb. 8:  COVID-19: Variants, Vaccinations & Healthcare Worker Hesitancy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the improving COVID-19 statistics in Kentucky and how the Superbowl may be a driver of a surge involving the new variants. The vaccines have reduced effectiveness against the Brazilian and South African variants and a boost will probably be needed in the fall. Because there are now three strains with different lineages which independently evolved this vaccine evading mutation, this may be the only genetic combination available to the virus to evade the vaccines. Thus, we may be seeing the beginning of the end to the pandemic. Jack Pattie Show. (5:14) https://youtu.be/W-wLfamqhl0   
  
135.  2021, Feb. 5: COVID-19: Anti-vaxxer and Anti-Maskers
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm stresses the seriousness of reports from the United Kingdom and how multiple countries are implementing public health measures to control the COVID-19 pandemic. Many callers expressed concerns that masks are not effective and that vaccines have caused serious dangers, even causing sterility. This misinformation was responded to, but is one of the root causes of why the United States has not been able to effectively respond to the pandemic. Even more problematic are the new variants which are spreading in the United States. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (20:02) https://youtu.be/PTW47al-AlE  
  
134.  2021, Feb. 3.  COVID-19: Variants Mutating - Could there be some good news?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the finding that the UK variant has mutated again taking on the mutations of the South African and Brazilian Variant. Does all the random mutations in viruses with different lineages mean this is the last major mutation to evade the vaccines? Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (3:43)  https://youtu.be/CUePQhmQSP8   
   
133.  2021, Feb. 1.  COVID-19: The Super(spreader) Bowl Event
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the dangers of the upcoming Super Bowl event and how Super Bowl parties and bars may create a huge super-spreader event with these new variants. It makes no sense to, as the State of California did, to recommend not playing TVs in bars. Bars should be closed. In addition, the usage of Tylenol and Ibuprofen after vaccination is discussed along with the problems and benefits of wearing two masks. Jack Pattie Show. (4:50) https://youtu.be/ZY6eVCAlOAc
   
132.  2021, Jan. 29.  COVID-19: Variant Virus on US Soil are Vaccines Still Effective?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new and more dangerous viral strains which are found on our soil, including the strains from the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa. The latter two strains are very problematic and may evade monoclonal antibodies and cause the vaccines to be less effective. Both Moderna and Pfizer are making a booster which means many of us will need to get three shots this year. Novavax (a two dose vaccine) also reported data which found their vaccine to be 89% effective in preventing COVID-19 with our existing strains, but only 60% effective with the South African Strain. Johnson & Johnson's vaccine (single dose vaccine) also reported a 72% efficacy rate with the existing strains and a 57% efficacy with the South African Strain. The need for expanded genomic testing to track the existence of strains in the USA along with travel bans from countries having these strains was discussed. Jack Pattie Show. (15:49) https://youtu.be/5JJ411awPCg
  
131.   2021, Jan. 27.  COVID-19: Opening Schools Safely
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the opening of schools safely. This can be done as illustrated by recent studies, but only if changes are made. All need to wear masks, social distance at least 6 feet, small class sizes (12 is best) and increased testing. Lower levels of the virus in the community will also make opening safer. All of this is based upon the original variant (D614G) and not the more infectious UK (B117) or Brazilian Variant (P1). There is concern these variants may have a greater propensity to infect children. Current vaccines work on the UK Variant but may have reduced effectiveness with the Brazilian Variant. The Brazilian Variant has just been found in Minnesota, underscoring the need for all to follow public health advice to reduce spread. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:28) Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:28) https://youtu.be/h0kZb8fjbXc   
  
130.  2021, Jan. 25.  COVID-19: UK, South African, Brazilian Strains
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the increased transmission and lethality of the United Kingdom (B117), South African (P1) and Brazilian (501Y.V2) Strains. In addition, there are concerns that the United Kingdom Strain may also have an increased ability to infect children compared to the previous strains. The vaccines are expected to be effective against the UK strain but may have reduced effectiveness against the South African and Brazilian Strains. The Brazilian Strain has been observed to cause a large surge of reinfections in a town which was felt to have reached herd immunity. In addition, the Defense Production Act needs to be activated to produce N95 masks and the CDC's foreign branches need to be bolstered to increase expertise and boots on the ground to stop viral spread in the country of origin. Jack Pattie Show. Jan. 25, 2021. (6.04)  https://youtu.be/QRWbL5QjnHY   
  
129. 2021, Jan 22.   COVID-19: Vaccines Should Work on the New UK Strain
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new viral variants and that there is now data that the Pfizer/BioNTech Vaccine can work on the UK Variant. In addition, the Eli Lilly's monoclonal antibody product has been shown to be 80% effective in preventing COVID-19 in nursing home residents. All of this is good news. A concerning finding was published in the journal Science which found the Brazilian variant causing a massive second wave and reinfections in Brazil, dashing any hopes for herd immunity. This underscores the importance of bolstering the need for increasing the CDC's foreign outreach and putting boots on the ground in other countries to halt epidemics before they reach our shores. Jack Pattie Show. (16:52) https://youtu.be/2PietcehCqQ  
 
128.  2021, Jan. 20.  COVID-19" New Overseas Variants
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the improvement in coronavirus cases and the need to continue to wear masks and socially distance. In addition, the implications of the South African and Brazilian strain are discussed along with the need to prevent spread of these strains into the United States. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590 (4:11)  https://youtu.be/UGcVz8f3NHk
  
127.  2021, Jan. 18.  COVID-19: Reinfections Are Possible
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new study from Public Health England (PHE) which found that COVID-19 infection provided an 83% protection for reinfection at 5 months. This is less protection than what is being reported for vaccines. In addition, the cost of receiving monoclonal antibodies and the research on ivermectin is discussed. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/5471Fd1JXhU  
 
126.  2021, Jan. 15. COVID-19: The Importance of Monoclonal Antibodies
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of receiving monoclonal antibodies if you are at high risk for severe COVID-19 and within three days of diagnosis. For this to happen you need ample testing with results available within 48 hrs. Rapid testing should ideally be used if the patient has newly become symptomatic. Obtaining vaccinations are also problematic. Contact your physician, local hospital and health department for information on how you can register for a waiting list. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/mig4S7b53HU   
 
125.  2021, Jan. 11,  COVID-19: Finding a Test on a Saturday
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses his difficulties in finding a test on a Saturday and the need for 24/7 services along with better support of Public Health Departments. In addition, physician offices and outpatient centers need to be vigilant with only one person in a waiting area at a time. Timely diagnosis is important since patients at high risk can receive Regeneron's monoclonal antibodies within three days of diagnosis which can prevent severe disease. This product has been underutilized in the United States and Kentucky needs to set up more administration sites. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/EDjCPa3mmRA
   
124. 2021,  Jan. 8.  COVID-19: Will The Vaccines Prevent Spread?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses a variety of topics including the new more infectious South African Strain underscoring the need to follow public health advice. We do not know what makes the new strain more infectious so we need to be extra vigilant. A side benefit of these precautions is that the flu season has been decimated. The current vaccines stimulate IgG antibodies and may not prevent spread of the virus as opposed to stopping symptoms. More research is needed.
The demonstrations in DC may well be a superspreader event.
An increase in infectivity (ability to spread - R0 ) causes more damage to society than an increase in lethality (case fatality rate). We cannot become lax when improvements occur because the virus will re-surge. We all need to come together and stop the virus by following public health advice and taking the vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (17:04) https://youtu.be/haAXU6-XBu4    
  
123.  2021, Jan. 6. COVID-19: The South African Strain
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new variant of the South African Strain which is not only more infectious but also may cause more disease in the young and may even have some resistance to vaccines. Luckily the Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are flexible and can be readily modified. The Kentucky vaccine rollout is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. Jan. 6, 2021. (3:48)    https://youtu.be/kbtrc6pdKgE       
 
122. 2021, Jan 4. COVID-19: Public Health Depts. Need More Support Administrating Vaccinations. 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for better support and investment in our Public Health Departments. During the severe pandemic services should be provided 24- 7, possibly supplemented by the National Guard. In addition, while the pandemic surges everyone should avoid bars, nightclubs, indoor dining, gyms, indoor church services and movie theaters. In addition, in the winter months being outdoors with the cold, dry air with cloudy skies is not as protective as in the summer. Jack Pattie Show. (7:34)  https://youtu.be/j_Ptcii-rrA 
  
121.  2020, Dec. 31.  COVID-19: Public Health Departments Need To Double Staff to Just Tread Water
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for better support and investment in our Public Health Departments. During the severe pandemic services should be provided 24- 7, possibly supplemented by the National Guard. In addition, while the pandemic surges everyone should avoid bars, nightclubs, indoor dining, gyms, indoor church services and movie theaters. In addition, in the winter months being outdoors with the cold, dry air with cloudy skies is not as protective as in the summer. Jack Pattie Show. (7:34)  https://youtu.be/j_Ptcii-rrA  
   
120.  2020, Dec. 30.  COVID-19: Congressman-Elect Dies - California Virus Surges.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the New Year's Holiday and the resultant surge which is expected to happen. This will occur as several states are already being overrun with the coronavirus. Hospitals in Southern and Central California are not able to provide care, resulting in ambulances are being turned away. To compound matters, the new more infectious strain from the United Kingdom has appeared in Colorado. The United States needs a much expanded organized system for detecting genetic mutations and emergence of new strains. In addition, there needs to be better protection of our leaders, Congressman-elect Luke Letlow died of COVID-19. He was 41 with no pre-existing conditions. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  (6:10) https://youtu.be/RmuGai1vOyo   
  
119.  2020, Dec. 28:  COVID-19: Herd Immunity Bar Raised - Myocarditis, New Mutations & Travel Bans
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of Dr. Fauci raising the bar for the obtainment of Herd Immunity with vaccinations. This will be hard to achieve and underscores the need for travel bans to slow down the spread of the new mutations in England and South Africa. We need to buy time, since it is a race between getting COVID and getting the vaccine. In addition, he discusses the implications of the recent illness of Keyontae Johnson, who developed myocarditis (heart inflammation) after having COVID-19. This underscores the importance of earlier reports involving OSU college athletes where 15% of those with a positive COVID test had acute myocarditis. This virus can cause long-term sequella in the young and we need to respect it and stop its spread until we can receive the vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:27) https://youtu.be/Wm4clOLWPxI
  
118.  2020, Dec. 21:  COVID-19: The UK Mutation
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of the new mutation which is spreading in the United Kingdom. The new virus appears to be 70% more infectious but it is not thought to be resistant to the vaccines. Resistance would require a mutation in the spike protein which could invade the myriad of antibodies the body produces but still attach to the Ace II receptor. This is hard, but not impossible to do.  Jack Patie Show. WVLK AM. 590.  (6:23)  https://youtu.be/EhdBiMtw2P0 

This type of mutation has happened before with the D614G mutation which infected the United States and was discussed in a recent Lexington Herald Leader OpEd. https://www.kentucky.com/opinion/op-ed/article247262694.html

This mutation does however sound a warning that we must slow the spread of the virus. If the United States did as well as Australia we would have 12 to 13 thousand deaths instead of over 300,000. An excellent video on the strategies used in Australia is presented by Dr. Imogen Mitchell from the ANU Medical School, located in Canberra, Australia. https://youtu.be/gtMo4SleRJQ   
  
117.  2020, Dec. 18:  COVID-19: Vaccine Safety and the CDC's V-Safe Monitoring System
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the advantages of mRNA vaccines and the expected safety benefits afforded by this technology. Both Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines are mRNA. This technology allows rapid development of vaccines and also elicits a highly specific immunological response which would be expected to increase vaccine safety. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590.  (19:08)  https://youtu.be/OEHnmRhQwyo   
 
 116.  2020, Dec. 16:  COVID-19: New Zealand Virus Free
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how New Zealand and Australia have controlled this pandemic by the public following public health strategies. In the United States, public health officials are being threatened and in Kentucky there has been a loss of almost 50% of public health staffing. These frontline workers are heroes and need to be supported. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (6:16)    https://youtu.be/wa8NucaimFs   
  
115.  2020, Dec. 14:  COVID-19: Snow Leopards With COVID
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new vaccines along with the three Snow Leopards in the Louisville Zoo who contracted COVID-19. In addition, cases are also spiking in Europe with Germany closing down schools. And the urging of Dr. Fauci to have the "default" position to open schools. This means to open schools when it is safe to do so. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Dec. 124, 2020. (5:22)  https://youtu.be/R8ItyS7nhrI
  
114.  2020, Dec. 11:  COVID-19: Kentucky Reopens - While other States Close.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the policy of reopening of Kentucky's restaurants, bars and gyms while at one of the highest points in the pandemic. Other issues discussed are how the new technology of mRNA vaccines has resulted in rapid development of the COVID-19 vaccine and how rising cases are not due to increase in testing but are highly predictive of ICU bed utilization and deaths to come. Finally, the utility of masks to make you safer was discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Jack Pattie Show. (18:02) https://youtu.be/IGBIM-j7PPc   
   
113.  2020, Dec. 9:  COVID-10: Vaccine Shortage?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the efficacy and availability of vaccines. In Kentucky, there is a vaccine shortage with only about 110,000 doses which will vaccinate 55,000 individuals. Nationally, I was hoping for 50 to 100 million doses by the end of the year. But we only have 10 to 15% of this available. It will take almost 50 million doses to vaccinate the 21 million front-line healthcare workers and 3 million nursing home residents. So far there have been no serious reactions reported by the vaccine, mainly headache, fever and muscle aches, being more prevalent in younger individuals. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:45) https://youtu.be/rFUWRT7KOs8   
  
112.  2020, Dec. 7:  COVID-19: New Advisement For the Surge
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new recommendations for staying safer during the surge. They include always wearing masks when indoors, postponing travel, avoiding crowded outdoor settings and increased room ventilation and air sensitization. The cloudy, cold, low humidity winter weather does not kill the virus as effectively as in the summer. One needs to wear a mask when walking dogs or jogging outdoors if you are likely to pass by others. In addition, the vaccines are coming, but so far, too few too late, frontline healthcare workers and nursing home residents have the highest priority. But vaccines do not prevent deaths and disability, vaccinations do, it is of utmost importance that we all get the vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (6:06)  https://youtu.be/Rxq3xc-oJKY   
 
111.  2020, Dec. 4:  COVID-19:  Is there really disagreement on when to open schools? Who should be vaccinated first?
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses opening schools. Public health officials state it is safe to open, teachers and others say unsafe? Actually, they both agree. Schools can open if there is testing, small bubbles, upgraded safe ventilation and proper sanitization available. Also, discussed was the false hope of Hydroxychloroquine and its possible adverse effects on an inflamed COVID heart. Misinformation regarding the number of deaths from COVID-19. And finally, who should get the vaccine first? How is it decided? Should the anti-maskers and those who promote indoor activities where people congregate be relegated to the end of the line? Finally, how come the vaccine is more effective than the flu vaccine? Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  (18:03) https://youtu.be/aXjJ-YxJzV4
 
110.  2020, Dec. 2:  COVID-19: Restaurants Back a Petition to Open Dec. 14, No Matter What
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the initiative to ignore public health advice and place lives at risk by opening restaurants on Dec. 14th. In addition, who will be able to be vaccinated first is discussed along with the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have stressed saving lives over preventing spread. The vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in the elderly, but data on preventing spread is still not available. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590.  (5:11).  https://youtu.be/xcX-cgbwkdA   
 
109.  2020, Nov. 30:  COVID-19: Roman Catholic Preparedness Response
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent lawsuits filed by various church organizations and that the remediation should be the closing of other unsafe venues rather than opening of church services/schools during a severe pandemic surge. He also discusses the 2019 Roman Catholic Churches Pandemic Response plan as published in the Nov.-Dec. issue of Health Progress.  In addition, suggestions on preventing a Post Thanksgiving Surge are discussed. Jack Pattie Show. Nov. 30. 2020. (4:55)  https://youtu.be/0OJ60gY1GUc  
Reference: Pandemic readiness: a plan for Catholic parishes. With teamwork, health care and preparation, parish leaders can reduce a pandemic's effects. Health Prog. Nov-Dec 2009;90(6):68-75. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19938436/
  
108.  2020, Nov. 27:  COVID-19: SCOTUS Strikes Down Church Mandates - Is it good public health policy?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Federal and Supreme Court rulings which struck down church mandates and explains that the discussion appears not be one of the power of government over churches but one which demands consistent uniform COVID-19 control strategies. In New York City, bars and restaurants are open but churches closed. In Kentucky, college sporting events are playing but church schools are closed. All of this causes confusion with the public. This ruling may lead to a national strategy which is pathogen not venue based and one not influenced by political or economic pressures. In addition new research on masks was discussed along with errors in the AstraZeneca/Oxford Vaccine Trial. Finally, exposure risks and how masks and goggles may provide some protection.  Jack Pattie Show.  (22:18)  https://youtu.be/ank4_feUP9g  
 
107.  2020, Nov. 25:  COVID-19: Meaning of a Negative COVID-19 Test
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm explains why a negative COVID-19 test does not mean you do not have COVID-19. The problem arises because of the very long incubation period of the virus. Thus, do not rely on this for Thanksgiving. In addition, he discusses the dangers of indoor dining during the current surge. And the dangers created by the University of Kentucky closing 5 of its operating rooms.  Jack Pattie Show.  Nov. 25, 2020. (4:43) https://youtu.be/rNz2DESV_20
   
106.   2020, Nov. 23:  COVID-19: Thanksgiving Dangers & New Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and now one from AstraZeneca/Oxford. The AstraZeneca vaccine can be stored in the refrigerator and is 70% effective, making it a candidate for remote distribution. Finally, the dangers of Thanksgiving are discussed. This is not a good year to be getting together with the family. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Nov. 23, 2020. (5:09)
https://youtu.be/PC7YrfXRnT8     
  
105.  2020, Nov. 20:  Public Health Strategies and a Bridge to a Vaccine.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the encouraging data from the new vaccines and all indications are they will be effective in the elderly and prevent severe COVID-19 illnesses. Until the vaccines are available we need to use Public Health Strategies. This includes the closure of indoor dining and bars. Sports venues are also problematic and should also be curtailed during this severe surge. Also, the importance of proper ventilation is discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  (18:23)  https://youtu.be/sDsf8REidHY
 
104.  2020, Nov. 18:  COVID-19: Targeted Shutdown & New Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new vaccines and the excellent initial data which is being reported. In addition, we all must follow public health advice to bridge us to the release of vaccines. Comments by Dr. Scott Atlas are contrary to what is needed to mitigate disease in the public while a vaccine is just around the corner. Targeted shutdowns are also needed in areas where the disease is outstripping healthcare resources. Jack Pattie Show. Nov. 18, 2020. WVLK AM 590.  (4:57) https://youtu.be/HtOcZSpP3oA
     
103.  2020, Nov. 17: 102.  COVID-19: Hospital Strategies & The Public Wearing Goggles Plus Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of healthcare staff wearing masks properly. They should not use ones with valves or wear them under their nose. In addition, chairs should not only be placed 6 feet from each other but also 6 feet from walking lanes. Chairs should not be next to doors. Staff flow is important. Wandering and gathering should be minimized, any staff-to-staff contact is a potential transmission. The public also has to start wearing masks. In Rural Kentucky, they are not wearing these in retail establishments. Despite this, false information, including stated by one of the callers, is given that there is a 99% mask compliance in Kentucky and, thus masks do not work. The importance of wearing goggles was also stressed as in agreement with Dr. Fauci and Consumer Union. Wearing masks and goggles is especially important if one must go into a retail store during this surge. In addition, during this surge it is best to order online and get delivery or curbside pick-up. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK. AM 590 (14:32)  https://youtu.be/tdLKx9k7oYY     
  
102.  2020, Nov. 11:  COVID-19: Monoclonal Antibodies
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses Eli Lilly's monoclonal antibody treatment which has just received an emergency use authorization (EUA) from the FDA. Initial reports are encouraging with a 72% reduction in hospitalizations and ER visits. Jack Pattie Show.  (3:34) https://youtu.be/59fGRUy08Vg   
 
101.  2020, Nov. 9:  COVID-19: Vaccine 90% Effective - Virus Mutating
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new Pfizer Vaccine which is reported to be 90% effective in preventing COVID-19 (prevention of deaths was not an endpoint). This underscores the necessity to follow public health advice so the virus does not spread further and mutate. Mutation of the virus became even more of a concern with the report from Denmark of a mutant strain in minks which appears to be vaccine resistant and it has jumped back to a few humans. The outbreak is contained and 17 million minks were culled. There are also reports of up to 10 laboratory made SARS-CoV-2 mutations which may also be monoclonal antibody resistant. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.(6:21) https://youtu.be/4CA2UIijJVA 

References:
1) https://en.mfvm.dk/news/news/nyhed/covid-19-all-mink-in-denmark-must-be-culled/ 
2) https://www.statnews.com/2020/11/05/spread-of-mutated-coronavirus-in-danish-mink-hits-all-the-scary-buttons-but-fears-may-be-overblown/ 
3) https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-020-00302-8   
  
100.  2020, Nov. 6:  COVID-19: Election Group Think & Transforming our Society
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how COVID-19 affected election dynamics and early voting. The election results from Minnesota and Michigan may have been affected by COVID-19. In addition, one party, probably out of concern with COVID-19, mostly using mail-in ballots also created wide swings in the reported results. Healthcare workers also need greater protections and presumptive workers' compensation for COVID-19. In addition, there are risks of healthcare workers bringing COVID-19 home to their families is discussed, with transmission to family members occurring in 50% of COVID positive workers. The effect of COVID-19 on permanently transforming our retail and educational systems is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590 (12:38).  https://youtu.be/Hx7Thiu1_Yc  
  
99.  2020, Nov 4:  COVID-19: Collateral Damage From Hospital & ICU Beds Filling
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses Memory T Cells and the danger of collateral damage from COVID-19 if hospital and ICU beds fill. In addition, the importance of measuring excess deaths as a means of determining the impact of COVID-19 is stressed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. (5:23) https://youtu.be/W-0AFvBq7tU   
   
98.  2020, Nov. 2:  COVID-19: Really, Doctors Being Paid To Falsely Diagnosis COVID???
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the false assertion that doctors are being paid to falsely diagnosis COVID-19. In addition, he stresses that COVID-19 is as much a heart disease as a lung disease. New studies show frequent heart involvement with over 62% of patients having elevation in cardiac enzymes. Finally, unlike those who have stated otherwise, COVID-19 will not go away after the election and lockdowns are problematic in the United States since there is not a national plan to take advantage of the pause in viral spread. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:09)  https://youtu.be/a2yYTlXRt5k   
    
97.  2020, Oct. 30:  COVID-19: The Importance of Wearing Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of wearing masks to protect others if you are an asymptomatic carrier. Masks will also give you some protection by reducing the chances of infection by almost sixfold. But they are not nearly protective enough to stop social distancing. Also discussed are the recent excellent results of Regeneron's monoclonal antibody treatment, a new analysis indicating that spread from objects (such as groceries and mail) may not be as common as thought, and the abundant and clean airflow on airplanes makes them safer than the public perceives. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 30, 2020. WVLK AM 590. (12:14)  https://youtu.be/aEoiJOaMJmY  
 
96. 2020, Oct. 28:  COVID-19: Case Fatality Rate of 1.39% With Cases Rising
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses recent studies showing the Case Fatality Rate of COVID-19 to be 1.39%. This does not include undiagnosed asymptomatic carriers. A sixth study now indicates antibodies are rapidly falling in those with mild or asymptomatic infections. Thus, the true lethality of this virus, is a combination of its case fatality rate and infectivity with future reinfections being a grave concern. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 28, 2020. (3:47)  https://youtu.be/ZckEcj6p2W8    
  
95.  2020, Oct. 26: COVID-19: Vice Presidential Outbreak
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses spiking COVID-19 cases to the highest level in the pandemic, along with the importance of wearing masks and social distancing to stop the pandemic. In addition, our leaders need to also wear masks and send a signal through their actions that masks and social distancing are of vital importance. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (3:59)  https://youtu.be/b4-_hYL9Rbw  
 
94.  2020, Oct. 23:  COVID-19: The Second Presidential Debate & Vaccine Efficacy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm comments on the COVID-19 policies which were discussed during the second presidential debate. Schools need proper ventilation, abundant testing, social distancing and keeping students in pods. Our economy needs to open safely with support given to businesses. Vaccines were also discussed and current FDA guidelines for Emergency Use Authorization seems to be more applicable to safety than effectiveness. Effectiveness is not being measured on the prevention of hospitalizations and deaths. The CDC has determined that between February and Oct. 3, there were 300,000 excess deaths in the United States. All of this emphasizes the need to embrace public health strategies of wearing masks, social distancing and hand hygiene. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (13:20)  https://youtu.be/zeXxKMqkxK4   
  
93.  2020, Oct. 21: COVID-19: Vaccine Challenge Trials - Masks & Viral Load
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising number of cases and deaths of COVID-19. He stress that case fatality rates are dropping due to better treatments, a younger population which is infected, and the use of masks. Mask use may decrease the initial viral load which may result in a less severe disease. In addition, Dr. Kavanagh discusses the ethics and effectiveness of challenge trials. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:00)   https://youtu.be/WB-6nhDr_Ow   
  
92.  2020, Oct. 19:  COVID-19: A Virtual Thanksgiving, Several Treatments Falling Flat
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the wisdom of a virtual Thanksgiving during the current surge of COVID-19. In addition, recent studies have provided disappointing results for the antiviral drug Remedisvir, along with reaffirming that hydroxychloroquine is also not effective. Both Gov. Chris Christie and President Trump received Remedisvir. They also received monoclonal antibodies which have shown very promising results. Finally, it was stressed that the current PCR tests are accurate, but at 1 million tests a day, testing errors will occur. The rapid tests are less accurate and are mainly used for screening. Jack Pattie Show. Oct. 19, 2020. WVLK AM 590. (4:16)
https://youtu.be/fl1G1G87mUQ 
 
91.  2020, Oct. 26: COVID-19: The Importance of Wearing Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of masks and retorts anti-maskers. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590  https://youtu.be/_PXeFTMzikA   
 
90.  2020, Oct. 12:  COVID-19: The False Narrative of Herd Immunity Being Promoted Again (The Not So Great Declaration)
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the False Narrative of Herd Immunity. He stresses that cases have rebounded in California along with New York City and Sweden. One cannot protect those at risk since about a third of the population falls into this category and we live in multi-generational households. Finally, the economy is transforming and companies have announced working at home will become the new norm for many employees. Production is up and so is customer satisfaction. Also, discussed is the KY Governor going into quarantine and the necessity of scientists to stay nonpolitical. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.   https://youtu.be/7bNAzRuX7J0   
    
89.  2020, Oct. 8:  COVID-19: Rising Hospitalizations and Rapid Tests
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses lapses in COVID-19 safety at the White House, including the overdependence on rapid testing and security personnel wearing N95 masks with exhalation valves. In addition, emphasis was placed on Senator McConnell’s correct messaging regarding masks and social distancing. We need to learn to live with this virus and open businesses safely with attention to infrastructure and airflow/sanitation. New treatments are just around the corner and we need to flatten the curve until these arrive. So, stay safe, especially if you are at high risk for a severe infection. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/DkFPaNVoazY
  
88.  2020, Oct. 7:  COVID-19: The CDC Affirms Aerosolization
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm gives an update regarding President Trumps' status and the Rose Garden superspreader event. In addition, he discusses the new CDC guidance regarding viral aerosolization and the implications this has on the opening of schools. Schools need to require masks and social distancing, along with upgrading their ventilation systems to have at least 6 to 10 complete air exchanges per hour along with air sanitation. Finally, COVID-19 vasculitis is discussed and how the disease affects every organ of the body. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/bD8UqFPj7TI
  
87.  2020, Oct. 5: COVID-19: President Trump Very Sick and Making Bad Decisions
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh From Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of being given dexamethasone (a steroid) in severe COVID-19; on its ability to mask symptoms and at the same time produce mental dysfunction in the patient. He also stresses that remdesivir has had mediocre results in recent studies. The administration of monoclonal antibodies was a wise move, but they have to be given early enough to be effective. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.   https://youtu.be/O6kU2apARqQ    
     
86.   2020, Oct. 2:  COVID-19: President Trump Tests Positive
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the implications of President Trump testing positive for the coronavirus. He also discusses trick-or-treating, testing and how to live safer during the coronavirus pandemic. Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/gBTYTkNcuG4   
 
85.  2020, Sept. 30:  COVID-19: Presidential Debates - No Wonder, We Can't Control The Pandemic
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the Presidential 'Debate' (if you could call it that) as it relates to COVID-19. What needed to be stressed was the opening of the economy safely, with PPE, social distancing and healthy buildings. Special attention needs to be placed on schools, similar to the attention given to professional athletes. College athletes should not rush back on the field until we know more about COVID-19 effects on the heart in young athletes. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.   https://youtu.be/AUQNibr14fA   
 
84.  2020, Sept. 28:  COVID-19: CDC Halloween Regulations -- It's Airborne
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new CDC recommendations on Halloween and what they mean for other similar activities in our daily lives. Aerosole spread is described and outdoor activities with social distancing and masks are still referred to as "Moderate Risk". These recommendations should also apply to similar outdoor venues such as protests, political rallies, funerals and demonstrations. Indoors this is even more dangerous. Schools need to pay attention to their ventilation both with ample complete air exchanges and sanitation. Jack Pattie Show. https://youtu.be/YJkwpn37_ck  
  
83.  2020, Sept 25:  COVID-19: Fauci vs. Senator Paul & Problematic Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the disagreement between Dr. Fauci and Senator Paul. He agrees with Dr. Fauci on most points, but agrees with Dr. Paul that the United States' response is among the worst in the world. New vaccines were also discussed with hopes being placed on the Johnson &Johnson vaccine. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine has significant barriers to distribution, especially in disparate populations because of its requirements for very cold temperatures. In addition, antibiotic resistant bacteria is still around and MRSA is the most common drug resistant bacteria affecting COVID-19 patients. A call for a national mandatory reporting system for all dangerous pathogens is made. Such a system should be publicly available and in real time. Finally, there is reason to believe wearing masks may decrease the viral load someone is exposed to and thus, they may develop a milder infection. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/5jBbDVmTs3c   
   
82. 2020, Sept. 23,  COVID-19: Masks N95 Vs. KN95s Which are Better ?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the ever changing stances on the CDC and their back tracking on aerosolization. Dr. Kavanagh stresses that there are ample case studies and research which point to aerosolization. Even the fact that it is 20 times safer outdoors than indoors supports aerosolization of the virus. Dr. Kavanagh also discusses the difference between N95 and KN95 masks and that KN95s will not be as effective in stopping an aerosolized virus. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/OvEa14wNHBY   
 
81. 2020, Sept. 21:  COVID-19: CDC: It's Airborne & Healthy Buildings.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of the CDC's announcement that the virus is airborne and that social distancing, wearing of N95 masks need to be done by all. Schools need to upgrade their infrastructure paying particular attention to air flow and quality. Air should be completely recycled/refreshed and sterilized every 10 mins in normal conditions, but more frequent during a pandemic. We need to do more testing of students and to use masks plus social distancing. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:30).  https://youtu.be/7u5wQx3vz34 
  
80. 2020, Sept. 18:  COVID-19: Vaccines, Aerosolization, Restaurants and Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the safety and availability of the new Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. To judge safety and efficacy one may wish to listen in on the FDA vaccine committee on Oct.22, 2020 and since this is produced jointly by USA and Germany, there will also be approvals by the country of Germany and the European Union. In addition, the problem of aerosolization of the virus with it living in the air for 16 hours is discussed and what this means for nursing homes, restaurants and schools. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (13:35)  https://youtu.be/XK1IfmTieyA    
     
79.  2020, Sept. 16:  COVID-19: The Great Sewage Initiative & Will There Be Enough Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the innovative approach of pool testing of sewage to target community hotspots for case tracking and for making decisions regarding opening our economy. In addition, this technique can help in opening universities safely. Student behavior is also key to opening universities. Vaccines will be key to opening the economy and our educational institutions. Some estimate that it will take 4 years to vaccinate the world. But with almost 200 companies working on vaccines, this will probably take much less time. In the United States a vaccine should be available to all much sooner. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. Sept. 16, 2020. (6:56) https://youtu.be/Jwur8DaDfGY   
  
78.  2020, Sept. 14: COVID-19: Nevada Rally & Importance of Nurse Staffing in Nursing Homes
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of nurse staffing to prevent COVID-19 in nursing homes. In Kentucky, one third of all nursing home COVID-19 deaths are from 8 nursing homes which have approximately half of the nurse staffing. In addition, Dr. Kavanagh discusses the Nevada Indoor Rally which could become a superspreader event. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (2:23).  https://youtu.be/HBJ5sQN28p8
   
77.  2020, Sept. 11: COVID-19: The Bob Woodward - President Trump Tapes.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USA discusses the implications of the revelations on the Bob Woodward and President Trump Tapes, including that the virus spreads through the air, affects the young and is more dangerous than the flu. In view of what is known, the continued shortage of N-95 masks in the United States and the lack of production capabilities has placed many front line workers at undue risk. Jack Pattie Show. Sept. 11, 2020. WVLK AM 590.  (12:24)   https://youtu.be/rzM1DFGpYD0
   
 76.  2020, Sept. 9: COVID-19: Failed SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine & The Need to Take The Flu Vaccine
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the AstraZeneca Trial which was placed on hold and how our initial vaccine trials are using new largely untested technology of RNA vaccines. In addition, the importance of obtaining your flu vaccine was stressed along with the dangers of getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (4:47) https://youtu.be/0n_pEER9yMo
   
75.  2020, Sept. 4: COVID-19:  Myocarditis in Athletes & Does Over-billing Result in Over-Diagnosis of Infections
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the finding that 30 to 35% of college football players who have COVID-19 have developed myocarditis (inflammation of the heart). In addition, he discusses the false narrative that hospitals are over-diagnosing COVID-19 because they get paid more for it. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. (19:34)  https://youtu.be/juXotnK4vGI
  
74.  2020, Sept. 2: COVID-19:  Can We Believe CDC and FDA Guidance
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses FDA changing statements regarding the efficacy of convalescent serum and the CDC's guidance regarding not recommending to test asymptomatic individuals or to test for community spread. In addition, he discusses society's shunning of healthcare workers and the impact on them. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. (7:56)  https://youtu.be/CLvPx_Ngqs0    
 
73.  2020, Aug. 31: COVID-19: Comorbidities Used As An Excuse To State Few Die
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new spin on fatalities that 94% of cases die have comorbidities. However, this is "associated with and "not caused by". And the comorbidities include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and breathing difficulties. Thus, the majority of adults. With advances in treatments many are now living but are developing long term disabilities of heart, lung and kidney problems. It was not so much the concern for death but for the development of myocarditis in college athletes which, caused PAC 12 and Big 10 football to be postponed. In addition, the report of California successfully opening preschools (using strategies of masking children over the age of 2, social distancing, hand hygiene and prompt cleaning of restrooms and toys after use) was discussed. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590. (8:02) https://youtu.be/pDNntFsals8
 
72.  2020, Aug. 28: COVID-19: High School Athletics & CDC Changing Testing Recommendations
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses high school contact sports and how we need to push starting them to a later date. Although the risks of death from COVID-19 in school age children is very low, there are real concerns regarding developing heart disease and myocarditis along with the spreading of the virus to their older guardians. The changing guidance by the CDC is very disturbing since by not doing community testing and testing for asymptomatic carriers the pandemic will spread and not be controlled. Topics of COVID-19 case definition along with hydroxychloroquine were also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM.  (12:20) https://youtu.be/vGrup44rfIk 
   
71.  2020, Aug. 26:  COVID-19: Treatment So Far, No Game Changers But Definite Hope
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses new treatments of vaccines, convalescent serum and remdesivir and how they are offering hope but so far not game changers. The antibody treatment developed by Eli Lilly is promising since a high concentration of effective antibodies may be able to be given early in the course of the disease. In addition, Dr. Kavanagh cautions against the advisement on not quarantining if you travel to an area with a high COVID-19 infection. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. (4:58) https://youtu.be/siRr0qf3cqc   
   
70.  2020, Aug. 24: COVID-19: Do Not Weaken the FDA & Hyperimmune Responses
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh From Health Watch USAsm stresses that the FDA should not be weakened and vaccines need to be thoroughly tested to make sure rare reactions such as hyperimmune responses to infections do not occur. It was felt the FDA Emergency Approval of antibody serum was a good decision but that the efficacy of the serum was probably not a game changer. Already 30,000 individuals have been treated with the serum. Opening of schools and the need for upgraded ventilation and N-95 masks for teachers along with the benefits of goggles and face shields was discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.   https://youtu.be/QVHLJ2zOoc0  
  
69.  2020, Aug. 21:  COVID-19: A Response to a White House Coronavirus Task Force Member
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm responds to White House Task Force Dr. John Fleming regarding the opening of schools. Recent studies have demonstrated that school children may not show symptoms and can transmit to their parent and grandparent caregivers placing them and the child's teachers at risk for COVID-19. Needed are N-95 masks for front line workers, capability of testing, safer air quality and repair of dilapidated schools, along with lower rates of community infections. Risks which could have been mitigated over the last 6 months with better federal coordination of the pandemic response. Other topics discussed were the seasonal flu and vaccine along with death rates from the pandemic. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/eUwnzKPlAxg   
 
68.  2020, Aug. 19:  COVID-19: Colleges Closing - Saliva & Pool Testing Can Be Transformative
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of transparency of school outbreaks along with transparency of severe infections in our healthcare facilities. Recent closures of Universities including North Carolina and Notre Dame. Students are ignoring public health advice and social distancing. The new saliva test and pool testing can be transformative and allow primary and secondary education to open. Upgrading our school's infrastructure is imperative to opening primary education. Guidance is changing as we learn more and more about this virus. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 19, 2020. WVLK AM 590. (9:04)  https://youtu.be/L0A71e_Wsow  
   
67.  2020, Aug. 17:  COVID-19: 200,000 Excess Deaths; 60% Developing Heart Disease, Athletes Not Playing
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses CDC data on total deaths in 2020 which shows an excess mortality of over 200,000. These deaths are attributed to COVID-19. Data from San Quentin Prison sheds doubt on herd immunity with 66% of the population being infected with new cases still occurring. Heart disease is also occurring in all types of COVID-19 patients, even those mildly infected. 60% of patients have changes in their hearts and the fear of myocarditis which is occurring in the young is postponing college sports. Finally, the low number of flu cases in the Southern Hemisphere is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 17, 2020. (7:17) https://youtu.be/RXZsi-T3PeA   
 
66.  2020, Aug. 14:  COVID-19: Should We Open All Schools And Masks Worn Only By Those At High Risk?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm responds to the strategy of only giving masks to those at risk for COVID-19 and opening all schools. He stresses that cloth masks do not provide effective protection to the wearer but are intended to protect others and lower the R0 of the virus to slow down and possibly stop the pandemic. It was stressed that the lethality of the pandemic is the infectivity of the virus and that during a raging pandemic children can be very infectious placing those at home at risk for COVID-19. Finally, there are long haulers and lasting disability in many who are stricken by this disease. Heart, lung and cognitive problems are common in those hospitalized, even those who are treated at home can develop disabling conditions. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM (14:52)  https://youtu.be/SMir00P3jC4
  
65.  2020, Aug. 12:  COVID-19: Kentucky Schools, Aerosols & Vaccines
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of opening schools and the need for upgrading our school buildings including better air flow and circulation. The safety of vaccines was also discussed and how, unlike Russia, we need to make sure all vaccines are thoroughly tested for both safety and efficacy before widespread use by our public. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/Kf96KuF42uk  
 
64.  2020, Aug. 10:  COVID-19: T - Cells Good or Bad, Exercising Vortexes
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the opening of schools in New York along with the importance of healthy school buildings with good ventilation and clean air. In addition, he discusses the findings of T-Cell immunity in the population and whether this is good or bad. And briefly discusses exercising vortexes and the need to be greater than 6 feet away when following someone who is walking, running or biking. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/sy7wtTt_VlI    
  
63. 2020, Aug. 7:  COVID-19: Prepare for the Long Term, Opening Schools Safely, Hydroxycholoroquine
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how COVID-19 will probably be with us for the long term and we need to strategize and upgrade infrastructure to reopen schools. In addition, questions were answered regarding hydroxychloroquine. Jack Pattie Show (16:12).
https://youtu.be/XMnl0hdwqr0   
 
62.  2020, Aug. 5:  COVID-19: Study: Hydroxychloroquine Works In Monkeys, Not Humans
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses how hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) inhibits a needed coronavirus entry enzyme in monkeys but not humans. Nefamostat Mesylate is the drug which inhibits the human enzyme but all of the attention given to HCQ has taken away valuable needed research resources. Internet trolls are also discussed, most with fake accounts and little if any content. They are spreading misinformation regarding HCQ and appear to be highly organized. Also the use of masks at home are discussed along with using goggles in high risk situations. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:43) https://youtu.be/DsKlnUPZv2c  
 
61.  2020, Aug. 3:  COVID-19: The Pandemic May Last For
Two Years And Infrastructure Changes are Needed.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm agrees with the WHO that the COVID-19 pandemic will likely last two years, since vaccines are not assured and already there is public concern regarding their acceptance. He stresses that we need a shift in our thinking from extending lifelines, to investments (State Grants) for infrastructure changes such as restaurants increasing ventilation and sterilization of airflow along with the construction of outdoor seating areas. Three manufacturers have vaccines which have entered clinical trials. Until the results are known, we need to wear masks, socially distance and wash our hands. Jack Pattie Show. Aug. 3, 2020. (7:20)   https://youtu.be/eyFUkW3zV1c  
 
60.  2020, July  31:  COVID-19: New Studies, Hydroxychloroquine Does Not Work & Infrastructure Needed To Open Schools
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the safety of medical care in the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic along with new studies showing the mechanism of action of hydroxychloroquine which explains why it works in the lab but does not work in live humans. In addition, infrastructure changes in restaurants and schools are needed to modify buildings to make them safer during the COVID-19 pandemic. And finally, should we be wearing goggles? Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (14:32)   https://youtu.be/EwXl-CIbvKs   
    
59.  2020, July 29:  COVID-19: Infections Associated With Face Shields, Shortages of Tests and HCQ Misinformation.
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the testing shortage and the need for the ability to run laboratory developed tests (LDTs). The misinformation regarding hydroxychloroquine which is flooding social media was also discussed. Finally, the Swiss Government has issued a warning regarding the use of face shields after an outbreak in a hotel which only affected workers wearing a face shield and not those wearing masks. Jack Pattie Show.  (5:57)  https://youtu.be/wFGkBEbJeEc 
 
58.  2020, July 27:  COVID-19: Churches, Bars, Schools & Mandates
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising rates in Kentucky and if one closes churches (which has already been done), then bars should also be closed, and makes the case that Mandates have a greater impact on the public than Recommendations. The public needs to follow public health advice and wear masks, socially distance and wash their hands.  Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. https://youtu.be/KEGLPmnNhy8   
 
57.  2020, July 24:  COVID-19: The Great School Debate
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the great school debate and recent CDC guidance. Parent and guardian involvement is of utmost important. In addition, new messaging from President Trump, calling the wearing of masks patriotic, warning the pandemic will get worse before it gets better and the canceling of the Republican Convention in Jacksonville, Florida, clearly paints the pandemic as a very serious situation. Jack Pattie Show.  (12:36).  https://youtu.be/qdI8PK3yq8A
 
56.  2020, July 22:  COVID-19: Experience With Having A Surgical Procedure - Is it Safe?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses new data on the infectivity of school children, the lasting and wide spectrum of effects of this virus and the growing consensus on wearing masks to stop the surging epidemic. In addition, he describes his recent outpatient surgery and the precautions which were taken along with the importance of not having the healthcare system overrun with COVID-19 patients. Jack Patties Show. WVLK AM 590. July 22, 2020. (5:45) https://youtu.be/4VWrH604B9g   
 
55.  2020, July 20:  COVID-19: Is It As Bad As They Say? Are The Numbers Accurate?
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the severity of the novel coronavirus epidemic and the need for national leadership with standardization of case definitions and reporting. The public needs to follow public health guidance and this guidance will change as we gain more knowledge. School openings are problematic with spiking cases and recent data from South Korea sheds doubt on the safety of opening schools. Vaccines are coming online and so far they look promising. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590.  (30:28)  https://youtu.be/b-LTDzaGmxQ  
    
54.  2020, July 20: COVID-19: What is it like to Get a Test, Should We Reopen Schools.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USA(sm) discusses the problem of not funding testing and case tracking along with concerns regarding bypassing the CDC on COVID-19 data. In addition, new information from South Korea on the interactivity of young children is discussed and how this impacts plans for school reopenings. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (11:19)   https://youtu.be/g8f92uShV-Y  
    
53.  2020, July 17:  COVID-19: Why Doesn't The USA Follow Public Health Advice
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses why changing guidance which occurred as we gained more knowledge about COVID-19 is being used to foster mistrust regarding scientists and public health experts in the United States. Europe accepted changes in guidance and crushed the curve. Many in the United States used this as an excuse to ignore advice. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (5:53)  https://youtu.be/dVDXdIxjat0  
   
52.  2020, July 10:  COVID-19: Opening of Kentucky Schools, the Need to Wear Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses school openings in Kentucky along with the need to wear masks and for individuals to do this not for themselves but for others. Finally, we need to work together and need a national coordinated strategies. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (8:13)   https://youtu.be/L5HTRknF-Js 
 
51.  2020, July 10. COVID-19: Transforming Kentucky's Economy, Safely Opening Schools and The Importance of Masks.
Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of wearing masks along with suggestions for school openings and how COVID-19 is going to transform our economy. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590.  https://youtu.be/uSNuYA_5BbU  
  
50.  2020, July 8:  COVID-19 Cases Are Rising and Waning Hopes for Herd Immunity
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the rising rates of COVID-19 in Kentucky and how the public is not following public health guidance. New data from Spain found only 5% of the population has antibodies to COVID-19, shedding doubt on the prospects of herd immunity. Spain's results supports observations in Sweden and California. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590. (6:00)
https://youtu.be/X4uCazlTZMI
 
49.  2020, July 6:  COVID-19: Mixed Messaging and Overrun Healthcare System
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses problems with the country being divided. We need consistent messaging. The United States had many warnings before this epidemic occurred and we ignored them all. Those who are hospitalized may have long lasting medical problems. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK AM 590. (8:39) https://youtu.be/8DHsDkl6qTo
  
 48.  2020, July 3:  COVID-19: Retort to a Coronavirus Denier & Hopes for a Vaccine
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh From Health Watch USAsm disagrees with a caller who feels herd immunity can be achieved and COVID-19 is no more deadly in the elderly than the flu. In addition, the new Pfizer's vaccine is discussed along with how to keep safer during the Fourth of July. The suggestion of applying pool testing to family cohorts for both nursing homes and schools is discussed. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (13:32)   https://youtu.be/hnJld6ClAUY    
    
47.  2020, July 1, COVID-19: Top Republicans Now Saying -- Wear Masks
Dr. Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the alarming projections of new cases for COVID-19 and the new N1H1 virus circulating in China. The recent Senate hearing (June 30) was discussed with the Committee Chairman, Lamar Alexander, asking the President to wear a mask, creating hopes of uniform messaging from our leaders. Cases are too high for contact tracing to be effective and maybe Kentucky should preemptively, similar to New Jersey, dial back their openings. Jack Pattie Show.(9:02)  https://youtu.be/ZnT_yRJR9gc     
 
46.  2020, June 29, COVID-19: Pool Testing To Open Nursing Homes & Defective Antibody Tests
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses using pool testing for detecting the COVID-19 virus in family units of nursing home visitors. In addition, the problems and history of antibody tests were also discussed. Wearing masks is very important to prevent the spread of this virus. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. (6:54)  https://youtu.be/yMYw-7SwqWU  
 
45.  2020, June 26, COVID-19: Immunity May Be Low in Asymptomatic Carriers
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses spiking rates in Texas, Arizona, Florida and California along with the CDC projections of a large number of asymptomatic carriers. Two new studies have found disturbingly low neutralizing antibodies in asymptomatic carriers which raises concerns of lasting immunity. All of this underscores the need for wearing masks, social distancing, and hand washing. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590. (13:55)  https://youtu.be/2EfMEvAKAKw  
 
44.  2020, June 24, COVID-19: Rates in Southern States are Skyrocketing as Governors Take Action
Dr Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the skyrocketing rates in southern States with hospitalizations rising in Texas, California, Florida, Arizona, South Carolina and Tennessee to the highest levels since the pandemic began. Total cases per day in the United States are the highest recorded, 35,000. The European Union has a greater population than the United States and has only 4,000 cases per day. The EU is now considering a travel ban of United States citizens. Jack Pattie Show. (6:23).  https://youtu.be/yw_Hiz3DgWY  
 
43.  2020, June 22, COVID-19:  COVID-19: Increased Testing is NOT the Cause of Spiking Coronavirus Cases
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses he spiking COVID-19 virus infection rates in the Southern United States and how this is not related to increase testing. Increase testing should lower rates though case identification and isolation. This spike is being driven by younger individuals who although they may not be as likely to die of the infection can become very sick with lasting disability. In addition, they can spread this infection to their parents and grandparents. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. (4:42)
https://youtu.be/aF0XihAkQs8
 
42.  2020, June 19,  COVID-19:  COVID-19 - Angry Coronavirus Denier, Antibody Dependent Enhancement & the Dangers of Indoor Rallies
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the necessity to wear masks and the dangers of indoor rallies. In addition, there are doubts of lasting immunity and mounting evidence that the virus has a profound effect on the body's immunity. This may set the stage for reinfections and antibody dependent enhancement. In addition, a response was given to a coronavirus denier, an example how mixed messaging is causing social turmoil.  Jack Pattie Show. (13:16) https://youtu.be/hOVEELzqWrI  
 
41.  2020, June 17, COVID-19:  Treatments That Work and Those That Do Not
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses new studies which show benefits of dexamethasone on COVID019 patients who require respiratory support along with a failed randomized control trial using hydroxychloroquine. In addition the new antibody serum developed by Eli Lilly is entering Phase III Clinical Trials and it should be available by late September. Finally, the AIM review paper on asymptomatic spread found 40 to 45% of infected patients may spread the virus without knowing they even have it. The importance of this with the upcoming Tulsa, OK political rally is stressed along with advising this may become a supra-spreader event. Jack Pattie Show.  (6:48) https://youtu.be/wyM9v9Vad6U
 
40.  2020, June 15, COVID-19:  Underestimation of COVID-19 Deaths.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm explains how historical death rates indicate that the COVID-19 deaths may be greatly underestimated. In Kentucky, there may be almost 1200 total deaths as opposed to 500. In addition, the importance of wearing masks and social distancing to stop asymptomatic spread and controlling the epidemic is stressed; along with the need for universal healthcare coverage and better social support. Jack Pattie Show (5:38).  https://youtu.be/0G_TYHg7NR8 
 
39.  2020, June 12, COVID-19: Increasing Rates of Infections & The Importance of Wearing Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm, discusses the implications of the lack of transmission to any of the 140 clients of the COVID-19 virus positive hairdressers; and what that means for the efficacy of the public wearing masks. He also discusses large gatherings, restaurants and funerals; along with the new antibody therapy being developed by Eli Lilly which should be available in September. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 AM. (15:21)  https://youtu.be/1a6yQl7nRlg 
   
38.  2020, June 8. COVID-19: WHO Recommends The Public Wear Masks
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the current WHO guidance for the public to wear cloth masks, and those at high risk and over the age of 60 to wear N-95 masks. In addition, some studies are showing lower than expected antibody levels in the community which places more importance for everyone to wear masks and practice social distancing. Modeling studies have predicted that masks and social distancing alone may burn out the epidemic. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590. (6:60)  https://youtu.be/CB-cq7d-cjg   
  
37.  2020, June 5. COVID-19: Bad Research & False Information on The Internet
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh form Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent retraction of a hydroxychlorquine article and the internet bots which spread false information to the public. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK 590.  (16:04).  https://youtu.be/NbKtRUVeamo  
  
36.  2020, June 3. COVID-19: Protests and Raising Death Rates
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the recent protests and the raising death rates which are starting to occur in Kentucky and the United States. Scott Johnson - Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590 (8:14)  https://youtu.be/PT9buegLwwE  
 
35.  2020, June 1.   COVID-19: Social Inequities & Lasting Effects of This Infection
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the George Floyd Demonstration and the social inequities which exist in our society, including living conditions which prevent social distancing, lack of food and resources and working conditions which can be made safer. In addition, the long term effects of the COVID-19 virus (post COVID disability) is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK. (5:51).  https://youtu.be/48Sqdec47xU  
  
34.  2020, May 29.  COVID-19: Changing Guidance and Ever Changing Statistics.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the changing guidance which is being given, along with discussions regarding concerns with the statistical analysis of the effects of this epidemic, specifically asymptomatic carriers. Jack Pattie Show -- WVLK AM. (16:27)  Jack Pattie Show.  https://youtu.be/ph1iJlKZu_k
 
33.  2020, May 27.  COVID-19: Memorial Day Weekend in Kentucky
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses memorial day opening in Kentucky, tips for eating out and the importance of wearing a mask and social distancing. Jack Pattie Show. (7:10)  https://youtu.be/eW5RW9rlcoE 
   
32.  2020, May 22.  COVID-19: Kentucky's Reopening of the Economy
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the reopening of the economy, the need for continued cleaning of goods along the with need to wear masks and return to work safety. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. (14:40). https://youtu.be/D6Tfn78rNFA 
 
31. 2020, May 20.  COVID-19: Immunity -- Soap & Water is Best
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses new evidence which supports immunity and the CDC's finding that person to person spread is the most common means of contracting COVID-19. Soap and water is best to clean with. In addition, western rural Kentucky has the highest infection rate with Warren County having the second highest number of infections in Kentucky. Jack Pattie Show.
https://youtu.be/gABvw3-uOPc
 
30.  2020, May 18.  COVID-19: Kentucky's Mask Controversy.
Dr Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the need for wearing masks to combat the COVID-19 epidemic along with the controversy which is taking place in Kentucky. The Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM 590 (8:43)   https://youtu.be/iA4Roa82iLA
  
29.  2020, May 15.  COVID-19: Visiting a Doctor's Office.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm  discusses his experience and precautions taken during his visit to a doctor's office. In addition, the importance of wearing a mask was discussed and how to safely reopen the economy. Finally, COVID-19 testing was discussed and the development of immunity. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. (14:52) https://youtu.be/1KbEL_aNJqU
   
28.  2020, May 13.  COVID-19 Reopening the Economy -- A short discussion 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the reopening of the economy. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK AM. (5:33) https://youtu.be/nh_ky2nqpmg  
   
27.  2020, May 11.  COVID-19 Invading the White House, Opening the Economy
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses national security concerns created with the coronavirus invading the White House. Concerns over safely opening the economy are also discussed along with the false narrative of herd immunity. Jack Pattie Show (7:54)  https://youtu.be/Z6NLEup9DNY 
  
26.  2020, May 8.  COVID-19. The Public Needs Testing Availability As The White House & The False Narrative of Herd Immunity.
Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm discusses herd immunity and how the infectivity and immune response to the virus makes this an unrealistic strategy. This is further complicated by the emergence of a new strain 614G on the East Coast. Jack Pattie Show with Scott Johnson. WVLK 590. (14:40)  https://youtu.be/AVpE6onrMTU
  

25. 2020, May 6.  COVID-19: New Strain Faster & Meaner -- What We Need to Do.  Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USA(sm) discusses the reports of the new strain of the COVID-19 virus. This virus has been found to be more infectious and produces an increased viral load in the cell. The attachment spike has been mutated and this may cause those who were immune to the previous version to be susceptible to this one. Herd immunity does not appear to be an option. In addition, vaccines need to be modified to increase their effectiveness against this strain. WVLK 590 AM with Scott Johnson. (5:31)  https://youtu.be/lp9mi09dYFg  
 
24. 2020, May 4.  COVID-19: Importance of Masks & Hopes for Vaccines. 
Kevin Kavanagh, MD, discusses the importance of masks and new hopes for a vaccine, along with strategies to speed up the process. Scott Johnson, WVLK 590 AM.  (6:48)  https://youtu.be/JCISiR4Amvc  
 
23. 2020, May 1.  Open or Not Open Our Economy - Is COVID-19 Herd Immunity a False Narrative ?
Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsup>sm, discusses the COVID-19 experience in Sweden vs. Finland and if the United States should open their economy, stressing the importance of worker safety and patrons wearing masks. Problems with herd immunity are also discussed along with the fast tracking of vaccines. Jack Pattie Show. (15:31)  https://youtu.be/I__VsLXZ-XM
 
22. 2020, Apr. 29. False COVID-19 Narratives from Elected Official's?   Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm responds to the false narratives of elected officials. Issues of piecemeal opening in states, infection rates and dangers of COVID-19 along with the use of mask by both employees and employers in retail establishments. The importance of officials wearing viral filtering masks in hospitals was also emphasized. Jack Pattie Show. (9:43) https://youtu.be/IFXjVkPfNwA     
 
21. 2020,
Apr. 27.  COVID-19: Opening the Economy & Hydroxychloroquine. 
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm, discusses the opening of the economy in the COVID-19 epidemic, that the number of cases may be improving and the dangers of hydroxychloroquine. Jack Pattie Show. (6:31) https://youtu.be/jsNhpbRjr10
    
20. 2020, Apr. 24. The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.   Dr. Kevin Kavanagh, MD, discusses the various tests to diagnosis COVID-19 and when an antibody versus a viral test will be useful. In addition, the problem of false positives and negatives and test reliability are discussed. Jack Pattie Show.  (16:26)  https://youtu.be/kNyA-9Ua6QM
   
19. 2020, Apr. 22.  The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.  Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the problems created by some state governors not following White House Guidance, the possibility of a second bigger wave of infection and disappointing research results of hydroxychloroquine.  Jack Pattie Show. (7:06)  https://youtu.be/0E-NZZ0xHKc 
   
18. 2020, Apr. 20.  New Requirements to Open Our Economy, How long will This Last? 
Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the new requirements to open up the economy, the need for more testing and that this virus will probably be with us until we have a vaccine. Jack Pattie Show. WVLK 590. (8:14)   https://youtu.be/jBkN4i6g9W4
      
17. 2020, Apr. 17.  Opening the Economy & COVIR-19's Effect on the Food Chain  
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh discusses when to reopen the economy and COVIR-19's effect on the food chain. Jack Pattie Radio Show. WVLK 590 AM. (16:02)   https://youtu.be/ZzUJimuU0P0
     
16. 2020, Apr. 15.  Defunding the WHO and Safety of Our Food Chain with COVID-19.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the United States' defunding of the World Health Organization, along with food safety with COVID-19. In addition, insights into when to open the economy and if primaries should be held in Kentucky were given. Jack Pattie Show - WVLK 590 AM. (7:04)  https://youtu.be/Lq9eYt_5w2k 
    
15. 2020, Apr. 13.  Dismissal of Dr. Fauci ? When To Open Economy.
 Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the impact of threatening to fire Dr. Anthony  Fauci and when we should open the economy. In addition, the disappointment of churches which did not cancel Easter Services and some of our leaders whom seem to support holding services. Jack Pattie Show. (8:12)  https://youtu.be/5bJy7AVNVJA 
 
14. 2020, Apr. 10.  The COVID-19 Danger of Church Services & Reopening the Economy Too Early. /em>
Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm discuses the risks of COVID-19 going to church services and reopening of the economy too early. Tips on how to stay safe, wearing masks at grocery stores and and preferentially having groceries delivered. In addition, once we are over the peak of the curve, it needs to be remembered that the down slope was created by social distancing and if we go back to normal without an increase in testing or a vaccine, then a second wave may occur. Jack Pattie Show. (10:41)  https://youtu.be/dsZXV-lbCKY
  
13. 2020, Apr. 8. The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.   
Kevin Kavanagh,MD from Health Watch US discusses healthcare worker safety and the need for more PPE along with the red tap and legal issues which prevents workers from wearing their own. Workers do not need paid sick leave but workers' compensation benefits. A strong coordinated federal response is needed with a well defined exit strategy with goals centered on PPE and rapid testing availability. Jack Pattie Show. (5:00)  https://youtu.be/nN25pIFdRng
 
12. 2020, Apr. 6. COVID-19 Asymptomatic Spread and the Dangers of Churches.   
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the extensive pandemic preparedness enacted by President George Bush and then neglected. In addition, asymmetric spread of the COVID-19 virus was discussed along with the need for retailers to require patrons to use a DIY mask and food handlers to use protective gear. Jack Pattie show. (5:20) https://youtu.be/XbhwTYh3RGY
   
11. 2020, Apr. 3.  Are Churches & Singing a Major Risk Factor for Spread? 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses asymptomatic spread and the unacceptable risks in-church services and singing pose on the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Jack Pattie Radio Show WVLK AM.  (15:25) https://youtu.be/z9xpRku7kaE  
 
10. 2020, Apr. 1.  New Estimates of COVID-19 Spread and Fatalities - Discussion of Public Mask Use.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses that new estimates shows if maximum social distancing and stay at home orders are followed nationwide that a minimum of 100,000 to 240,000 deaths may occur. All states need to enact stay at home policies.  The controversial policy of citizens using masks is also discussed. Jack Pattie Show.  (8:24) https://youtu.be/FrRbOEflKqM
  
9. 2020, Mar. 30.  COVID-19 Masks, Gloves & Ventilators.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses masks, gloves and ventilator shortage along with the non-coordinated, inadequate federal response. Also, discussed is social distancing both the importance and its extension until the end of April.  Jack Pattie Show WVLK AM. (12:46)  https://youtu.be/2wKm9eiMQHY
 
8. 2020, Mar. 27.  COVID-19, Social Distancing, Lack of Beds and Kentucky's CON.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of social distancing and staying at home along with the lack of ventilators and the lack of beds A short discussion was also given regarding Kentucky's antiquated CON law. WVLK AM - Jack Pattie Show. (10:52)  https://youtu.be/DmR8lYdH_rY  
  
7. 2020, Mar. 25 -- COVID-19 - Importance of Social Distancing and Grocery Delivery.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the importance of social distancing, staying at home, ordering groceries to be delivered, and that there is a consensus developing that the virus can live on some surfaces for up to three days. Jack Pattie Show. (4:04).  https://youtu.be/tGLbCKp5aNk 

6. 2020, Mar. 23 -- Spread of Coronavirus Without Symptoms - Asymptomatic Spread.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh stresses the importance of staying at home and asymptomatic spread. Senator Rand Paul has the virus and is asymptomatic. Now we have Republican Senators missing one of the most important votes in their careers because they were exposed to asymptomatic carriers. Jack Pattie Show. (4:22)
https://youtu.be/gSxnai_kc34  
 
5. 2020, Mar. 19. Coronavirus -- Flatten The Curve - Asymptomatic Spread, Social Distancing and Masks.
Kevin Kavanagh, MD from Health Watch USAsm discusses asymptomatic spread, social distancing and the lack of hospital beds, masks, and test reagents. And the need for N95 masks for the public. Jack Pattie Show. (20:28)  https://youtu.be/li04bjncrTM 
 
4. 2020 Mar. 14.  The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.  
Kevin Kavanagh, MD, from Health Watch USAsm gives a short coronavirus (COVID-19) update on the Jack Pattie show. Social distancing is discussed along with how using only a mask may not give adequate protection. Jack Pattie Show. (04:40)
 
3. 2020, Mar. 9. The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates. 
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm gives an update on the status of the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic, number of infections and how to best avoid contracting the infection. Jack Pattie Show. (05:42) 

2. 2020, Mar. 3: The Coronavirus (COVIR-19) In the United States - Updates.
Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USAsm discusses the coronavirus COVIR-19. Updated information on transmission, fatality rates and the utility of masks is discussed. In addition, strategies to prevent transmission to individuals are presented. Emphasis is also placed on changes which need to be made by employers and our healthcare system. Jack Pattie Show WVLK AM Download.  YouTube Video. (23:09)  https://youtu.be/lrzNgwzl_44  

1. 2020, Feb. 4: The Coronavirus Pandemic -- Kevin Kavanagh.
The Coronavirus Epidemic, what is known, best ways to prevent acquiring the virus and the current CDC Response. Jack Pattie Radio Show AM 590. YouTube Video. (32:46)   https://youtu.be/nl3ZFtK2f5w 
   

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