A research institute that analyzed the highly pathogenic bird flu virus detected in northern Japan in October says it is the same type as one found in the country during the previous two seasons from autumn to spring.
This season's first case was found last month in a dead wild crow in Bibai City in the prefecture of Hokkaido.
The National Agriculture and Food Research Organization says its genome analysis showed the H5N1 strain of the virus was of the same genotype as one of the viruses detected in the country in 2021 and 2022 seasons.
The organization says it has found no genetic mutations that could make the virus more contagious to mammals, and that it is unlikely that humans will be infected.
A series of bird flu outbreaks hit poultry farms and other facilities across Japan last season. The number of chickens and other birds culled reached a record high.
A group leader at the organization, Uchida Yuko, said the detection of the same type of virus as the last seasons indicates possible sustained infections among migratory birds.
Uchida urged poultry farms and other facilities to be on the alert for the virus, as it has already been detected in Japan.
DMEPhotography/iStock
From 46% to 61% of adults receiving mpox vaccination at two US public health clinics reported a decrease in sexual behaviors tied to viral transmission, including one-time encounters, sex partners, dating app or sex venuebased sex, and group sex, according to a study published late last week in Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
The study, led by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) researchers, involved 711 adults seeking mpox vaccination at two clinics in Washington, DC, who completed questionnaires from August to October 2022.
Median participant age was 32 years, 52.0% were White, 20.5% were Black, 14.6% were Hispanic, 7.9% were Asian, 2.0% were multiracial, 0.3% were American Indian/Alaska Native, and 9% had HIV. Most participants were men who have sex with men (MSM) (61.0%), 27.0% were women, and 3.8% were men who have sex with only women.
During the 2022 multicountry mpox outbreak, more than 30,000 mpox cases were reported, mainly among MSM. "Decreases in U.S. mpox cases were likely accelerated by a combination of vaccination and modifications to sexual behaviors associated with mpox virus transmission," the researchers wrote.
Many participants reported fewer one-time sexual encounters (60.8%), sex partners (54.3%), less dating app or sex venuefacilitated sex (53.4%), and less group sex (45.6%). A total of 39% to 54% reported no change in these behaviors, and 0.4% reported an increase.
While reported cases of mpox continue to be low, individuals may return to behaviors and practices that they engaged in prior to the outbreak. In turn, behavior mitigation strategies may only be implemented as temporary protective measures, underscoring the importance of mpox vaccination for continued protection.
A greater proportion of Black participants reported decreases in all four behaviors since learning about mpox (61% to 76%), compared with White participants (41% to 54%). Also, a higher percentage of participants with HIV than those without HIV said they were engaging less in these activities (72% to 82% vs 43% to 59%).
"While reported cases of mpox continue to be low, individuals may return to behaviors and practices that they engaged in prior to the outbreak," the authors wrote. "In turn, behavior mitigation strategies may only be implemented as temporary protective measures, underscoring the importance of mpox vaccination for continued protection."
Oklahoma Health Department confirms mpox is present in the state
The state's health department confirmed there are currently five active cases across the state.
Updated: 5:15 PM CDT Oct 31, 2023
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is still present in Oklahoma.The state's health department confirmed there are currently five active cases across the state. The feds said the state has seen a total of 77 cases since the original outbreak in 2022.Doctors said mpox is only spread through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sex. Because of that, basic precautions can go a long way.Get the latest news stories of interest by clicking here."A naturally occurring disease of animals that has jumped into humans, so technically, we call this a zoonosis," said Dr. Douglas Drevets, chief of infectious disease at OU Health.Drevets said mpox is related to smallpox but far less deadly. Symptoms consist of painful, raised bumps to pox on infected areas of the skin, as well as flu-like symptoms."Its a very different disease than you think of in smallpox," Drevets said.In 2022, the U.S. saw an outbreak, but figures have since gone down dramatically. Oklahoma currently reports five active cases.>> Download the KOCO 5 App"And thats in part because people have been getting vaccinated for it. There is a vaccine. The smallpox vaccine provides pretty good but not perfect immunity, and then people are aware of it, so you can take precautions to protect yourself," Drevets said.With a lot of the recent cases being spread through sex, safe sex is another way to prevent infection."It is person-to-person safe sex. Use precautions. If somebody has rashes or sores, thats probably something you ought to not get involved with," Drevets said.The vaccine is available for free and requires two doses for maximum protection.Top HeadlinesEl Reno police investigate after 20-year-old killed at Halloween party, suspect arrestedFriends stars react to unfathomable loss of Matthew PerryA teacher and ultra-marathoner runs 450 miles to beat international field, set world recordOklahoma City restaurant owner wanted after allegedly sexually abusing teenage staffOklahoma lawmakers look at what led up to decision to close Michelin plant
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is still present in Oklahoma.
The state's health department confirmed there are currently five active cases across the state. The feds said the state has seen a total of 77 cases since the original outbreak in 2022.
Doctors said mpox is only spread through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sex. Because of that, basic precautions can go a long way.
Get the latest news stories of interest by clicking here.
"A naturally occurring disease of animals that has jumped into humans, so technically, we call this a zoonosis," said Dr. Douglas Drevets, chief of infectious disease at OU Health.
Drevets said mpox is related to smallpox but far less deadly. Symptoms consist of painful, raised bumps to pox on infected areas of the skin, as well as flu-like symptoms.
"Its a very different disease than you think of in smallpox," Drevets said.
In 2022, the U.S. saw an outbreak, but figures have since gone down dramatically. Oklahoma currently reports five active cases.
>> Download the KOCO 5 App
"And thats in part because people have been getting vaccinated for it. There is a vaccine. The smallpox vaccine provides pretty good but not perfect immunity, and then people are aware of it, so you can take precautions to protect yourself," Drevets said.
With a lot of the recent cases being spread through sex, safe sex is another way to prevent infection.
"It is person-to-person safe sex. Use precautions. If somebody has rashes or sores, thats probably something you ought to not get involved with," Drevets said.
The vaccine is available for free and requires two doses for maximum protection.
Top Headlines
Avian flu has made its chilling debut in Antarctica, sparking concerns for the vulnerable populations of penguins and seals that have never encountered the deadly H5N1 virus before. The arrival of the virus is shrouded in uncertainty, with scientists warning of possible "catastrophic breeding failure" among the delicate wildlife populations in the region.
The virus was detected in brown skuas, a scavenging bird species, on Bird Island, which forms part of the British overseas territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. These migratory birds likely brought the virus with them from South America, where bird flu has already claimed the lives of around 500,000 seabirds and 20,000 sea lions in Chile and Peru alone.
The current outbreak of the highly contagious H5N1 variant, which originated in 2021, has already taken a devastating toll on millions of wild birds. Concerns have long been raised about the potential impact on Antarctic wildlife, as many species are found exclusively in this remote region and have never been exposed to avian flu viruses.
Bird Island, situated several hundred miles off the southeast coast of the Falkland Islands, is renowned as one of the world's most biodiverse hotspots. It is home to approximately 50,000 breeding pairs of penguins and an astounding 65,000 pairs of fur seals. The island also provides a refuge for numerous endangered bird species. The introduction of avian flu into this fragile ecosystem could lead to "catastrophic breeding failure and mortality events," warned Dr. Meagan Dewar, chair of the Antarctic Wildlife Health Network.
The unusual deaths of migratory brown skuas on Bird Island prompted researchers from the British Antarctic Survey to collect swabs for testing in the UK. The results confirmed the presence of H5N1 in this remote corner of Antarctica. It is believed that the migratory birds brought the avian flu with them from South America.
H5N1, a subtype of avian flu classified as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), is notorious for its severe impact and high mortality rate among poultry populations. In Peru and Chile alone, more than 500,000 seabirds and over 20,000 sea lions have succumbed to HPAI H5N1 this year, according to the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR). The ongoing outbreak of H5N1, which started in 2021, has claimed the lives of countless birds. Earlier this year, thousands of sea lions in South America were found dead due to H5N1.
The first reported outbreak of this strain in humans occurred in Hong Kong in 1997, and it has since spread worldwide. According to the journal Nature, the current outbreak is caused by a highly virulent form of the H5N1 sub-type.
The strain initially emerged in Europe in 2020 and quickly spread to several countries. In 2022, the virus was first detected in South America, rapidly spreading from Colombia to Chile within a mere three months.
The Wake County Animal Shelter, closed since Oct. 6 to prevent the spread of canine influenza (dog flu), will remain closed through November.
Through Oct. 31:
To provide the best possible care, the center is reaching out to rescue organizations both local and from outside North Carolina. The center is requesting their assistance in relocating dogs from the shelter and helping with strays from animal control partners.
"We have dogs in our care that have not been exposed, those that have recovered and asymptomatic dogs," said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. "We need additional help from rescue organizations to make a difference in the lives of these dogs and offer them a chance for a fresh start."
Since the closure Oct. 6:
"We've received so many calls from the public asking how to help, and it means the world to us," said Jennifer Federico, the director of the Wake County Animal Center. "If you want to help, join us in stopping the spread of the virus. We will get through this; it is just going to take time.
To keep your pets safe:
"In addition to ensuring your pets are safe, you can help us by taking in strays, trying to find their owners, helping neighbors rehome their pets if needed and stepping up to offer services that we normally provide and just cant because of the dog flue at the center," Federico said.
Due to the closure, the following services are affected:
Adoptions at Animal Center: All adoptions of pets, including dogs, cats and other small animals are temporarily paused.
Surrenders: Owners are not able to surrender any animals during this closure.
Animal Control: All five Animal Control agencies across the county (Wake County, Raleigh, Cary, Garner and Holly Springs) continue to respond to emergency animal calls. However, they are not picking up strays or owner surrenders in the field.
Bite Animals: The Animal Center often holds pets on quarantine following bite incidents. However, at this time, those animals should be quarantined in veterinary offices or private homes.
Services that are being offered:
Lost Pets: If you believe your pet is currently at the Animal Center, please call at 919-212-PETS (7387) for instructions on providing proof of ownership and the process to reclaim your pet. Please note that lost pet walk-throughs inside the building are not offered during the quarantine period.
Owner-Requested Euthanasia: If you need to euthanize your pet due to health or behavioral issues, you can call and request an appointment for euthanasia. Owners are asked to provide veterinary notes detailing the animal's medical condition or specific behavioral issues. Euthanasia requested by owners is carried out immediately upon surrender to the Animal Center. Staff reserves the right to refuse this service if the animal does not appear to be in need of euthanasia. Owners will then be referred to a private veterinarian for assistance.
Phone Support for Stray Pets: If you've found a stray pet and are looking to locate its owner, we provide phone support and guidance on how to reunite the pet with its owner.
Ottawa
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Posted: November 01, 2023 Last Updated: November 01, 2023
Recent developments:
The city's COVID-19 numbers to watch are mostlystable at levels ranging from low to highin this week'sOttawa Public Health (OPH) updates.
Ithas a generallymoderate amount of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity and a generallylow level of flu, though its flu wastewater reading is seen as high.
For now, OPHsaysthe city's health-care institutions are not at a high risk from respiratory illnesses. It hadbeen a high risksince September, while December through February are always considered high-risk times.
Expertsrecommendthat people cover coughs and sneezes,wear masks, keep their hands and often-touched surfaces clean, stay home when sick and keepup to date with COVID and flu vaccinesto help protect themselves andvulnerable people.
Both COVIDand flu vaccines are now available for the general public in Ontario.
Wastewater
Data from the research teamshows that as of Oct. 26,the average coronavirus wastewater levelhas been generally stable for about five weeks, with a recent rise that's settled back down.
OPHconsiders this tobe high, down from very high last week.
Hospitals
The average number of Ottawa residentsin local hospitals for COVID-19 in the last week is stable at 45, with no patientsin an ICU.
A separate count thatincludespatientswho testedpositive for COVIDafter being admitted for other reasons, wereadmitted for lingering COVIDcomplicationsand were transferred from other health unitswas 116 as of its last update on Oct. 23.
The16 new patients from the previous week is labelled aslow, according to OPH, which is down from moderate.
Tests, outbreaks,deaths and vaccines
The city's weekly average test positivity rate is about 17 per cent, which is stable. OPH says this is a moderate level.
OPH says there are 35 activeCOVID outbreaks, up from 23 last week.Most outbreaks are in either retirement homes or hospitals. and there are a moderate amount of new outbreaks.
The health unit reported 217 more COVID cases in the last weekand twomoreCOVIDdeaths,both people age 90 orabove.
OPH's next monthly COVID vaccinationupdateis expected next week.
Spread
The Kingston area's health unit says its COVID trends are stable atmoderate to very highlevels and it'sin ahigh-risk time for transmission. Fluindicatorsarelow and RSV trends are either low or moderate.
Its average coronavirus wastewater reading is considered high and stable. Other availablewastewater trends outside Ottawa arestable in Smiths Falls, Brockville, Hawkesburyand Cornwall.
The average COVID-19 test positivity ratedrops from 27 to17 per cent inthe Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) andis a stable 14 per cent inthe Kingston area.
Hospitalizations and deaths
The Kingston area's health unit says it has a very high26 active COVID-19 patients in its hospitals, including anyone living in a different health unit. The province has reported that area's 126th overall COVID death.
The number of hospitalizations in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark (LGL) counties drops to three and the EOHU's drop to seven.
Hastings Prince Edward (HPE) Public Health, like Ottawa, gives a weekly hospitalization average. It rises from five to 13.
Western Quebec has a stable 74 hospital patients with COVID.
Three more EOHUresidents with COVID have died for a total of 318. LGL reports their 169th total death, the 26th this year.
As the crisp autumn air sets in and leaves turn to shades of red and gold, many of us eagerly anticipate the seasonal delights that come with the autumn and winter months. But, for some, these seasons also bring an unwelcome guest: hay fever.
Hay fever is often associated with spring and summer. But climate change means hay fever season now extends well into autumn and winter. This is due to climate change shifting weather patterns and temperatures, causing extended periods of pollen production from various plant species.
This shift in hay fever season is not just annoying for sufferers. It also makes it particularly confusing in the colder months, when colds and the flu are rife, to determine whats causing your symptoms, since they so often overlap. This also makes it difficult to know which treatment will work best for your ailment.
Although there are several overlapping symptoms, there are a few key symptoms that can help you distinguish between colds, flu and hay fever:
Symptoms such as sneezing and a runny or stuffy nose are common in both hay fever and a cold.
But if you also have itchy, red, watery or puffy eyes and an itchy throat, you probably have hay fever. These symptoms are much less common with a cold. If your throat feels sore and you also have a cough, you probably have a cold.
Flu symptoms rarely crossover with hay fever symptoms though they do with colds.
A cough is the most common crossover symptom between a cold and the flu. Other symptoms, such as a sore throat, sneezing or a runny nose, can sometimes happen with the flu though its less common.
Likewise, chills, fatigue and body aches which are common with the flu can sometimes occur in people who have a cold, though this is less typical.
The best way to differentiate a cold and the flu is if you have a fever and if youre experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhoea, which can sometimes occur with the flu.
Another symptom to look out for is temporary loss of smell and taste. While this can occur due to hay fever, its usually accompanied by a blocked nose. If you find you have a loss of smell or taste but your nose isnt blocked, you probably have a cold of the flu.
Since no one wants to be struck down by a cold, the flu or hayfever, the best thing you can to to prevent symptoms is boost your immune system using science-backed strategies:
Bolster your gut: A diet rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals and fibre is crucial for both your immune system as these are the essential building blocks of immune cells. A Mediterranean-style diet is shown to be beneficial for the immune system for this reason. This diet contains plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and protein sources like fish, meat or plant-based alternatives. Additionally, consider incorporating probiotics to support your immune health especially specific blends containing Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, which may potentially benefit immune response and reduce infection severity.
Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are both shown to weaken immune defences. Even just five or six drinks on a night out can suppress the immune system for up to 24 hours.
Prioritise sleep: Sleep is important for maintaining immune function as it reduces inflammation in the body. Aim to get more at least seven hours a night. Less than this may increase your likelihood of suffering from common illnesses.
Manage stress: The stress hormone cortisol negatively affects immune cells, altering their function. It also increases histamine levels in the bloodstream, worsening allergy symptoms. Practicing mindfulness may help manage your stress and boost your immune system.
Exercise: Moderate-intensity physical activity (such as a brisk walk or ballroom dancing) can improve your immune response. But its important to strike the right balance as long, intense exercise without rest between workouts can actually worsen immune function. According to some data, this decrease can happen after only 90 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity.
Get your jab: Vaccination is vital. But since you can only vaccinate yourself against the influenza virus, other preventive measures such as washing your hands and wearing a mask in busy, indoor spaces can protect you against both colds and the flu.
If youre someone who typically experiences hay fever, you may also want to use some additional measures to prevent symptoms:
Avoid allergens: Steer clear of allergens that trigger symptoms. On high pollen count days, consider staying indoors, keeping windows shut and using HEPA filters indoors or an N95 mask to filter pollen particles.
Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines, such as cetirisine or loratadine, can be effective in managing hay fever symptoms. These should ideally be taken before exposure to allergens, and continued as long as symptoms last. Be sure to consult with your doctor for guidance before use.
Consider immunotherapy: Allergy shots, or immunotherapy, can reduce hay fever symptoms by desensitising your immune system to allergens over time, providing long-lasting relief. Immunotherapy needs to be done several times before its effective.
Making even just a few of these lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference in supporting your immune system and reducing your risk of getting sick or suffering hay fever symptoms during the colder months.
When the global outbreak of mpox hit stateside in May 2022, the response from local and statewide health departments and other concerned agencies was swift.
First discovered in 1958 in Denmark, the mpox (formerly monkeypox) virus has steadily emerged in central, east and west Africa over the last 60 years. However, the 2022 outbreak of mpox appeared suddenly and spread rapidly throughout Europe and the United States; by August, cases had surfaced in all 50 states. Outside of Africa, the virus has primarily affected men who have sex with men, making this a public health crisis for the gay and bisexual community. However, mpox, like any virus, does not discriminate and this highly transmissible disease is a risk for anyone coming into contact with an infected person.
In October of that year, Binghamton Universitys Q Center partnered with the Broome County Health Department (BCHD) and the Southern Tier Aids Program (STAP) for an on-campus clinic to provide mpox vaccinations and safe sex and AIDS prevention education. STAP is the only non-profit organization serving the LGBTQ+ community in Broome County, so collaborations with the Q Center were mutually advantageous.
I had started reaching out to STAP and its Identity Youth Center staff in fall 2022 because we serve similar communities, said Nick Martin, assistant director at the Q Center. We have invited STAP several times to campus for tabling events. Several STAP staff members have attended Q Center events, including the Pride Flag Raising Ceremony in June and the Rainbow Fest during Fall Welcome Week. There is enormous value with these kinds of collaborations.
Established in 1984, STAP, originally an AIDS service organization, has evolved over the past few decades. Today, STAP provides an array of essential services, including a food pantry, housing assistance, care coordination, LGBTQ+ youth support, reentry services for individuals leaving prison or jail, Hepatitis C services, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, medical care and substance use treatment. Access to these services is not contingent on being HIV-positive.
Diagnosis and treatment for HIV/AIDS have radically changed since the 1980s due to the availability of antiretroviral therapy and the emergence of effective preventative measures such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP, which boasts a 99% efficacy rate in preventing HIV transmission. However, other sexually transmitted infections are on the rise.
Although there is some dispute about labeling mpox as an STI, sexual contact is currently the predominant mode of transmission in reported cases.
James Onyeike is the coordinator for STAPs Communities of Color initiative, conducting specialized testing and helping to empower communities at greater risk of HIV and STIs.
Thanks to advancements in modern medicine, our clients living with HIV/AIDS now enjoy long, healthy lives, said Onyeike. But to fully eradicate AIDS, prevention is more vital than ever and our proactive approach to testing ensures that individuals receive the care they need.
Haythi Ei 22, MPH 23, is a graduate of the Master of Public Health Program (MPH) at Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences and is passionate about promoting equity in healthcare. Ei was the mpox program manager for STAP from June to September 2023 through a New York State Department of Health grant. During that time, Ei organized vaccine clinics in partnership with local health departments and non-profit organizations and provided education and outreach to underserved populations, including rural, LGBTQ+ and communities of color.
I came across this job through the Decker student listserv, Ei said. I was finishing up my MPH and needed a job. Despite its short duration, I knew this would be a great stepping stone into the public health field.
The Q Center will team up with STAP and Decker Student Health Services for a second vaccination* and testing clinic in the Q Center Lounge from noon to 3:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3. While the clinic will accept walk-ins for testing, appointments are highly encouraged.
A newly implemented online appointment system will make scheduling more accessible, allowing interested students to select a time that works for them. Contact STAP or the Q Center for a link to the online booking system.
Were working hard to ensure everyone has easy access and an overall good experience with our services, Onyeike said. Even if you cannot get an appointment that day, please come in and we will help you set up an appointment to get tested at our main location.
*Please note this is the second vaccination in the recommended series.
This past summer, Ei reached out to Martin to discuss a schedule of fall clinics as her grant-funded position was coming to a close. Broome County had available vaccines, so Ei coordinated with BCHD staff and Richard E. Moose, medical director at Decker Student Health Services, to discuss details and logistics. Decker Student Health Services came on board to help administer vaccinations.
We were interested in partnering with the Q Center to help provide vaccines to students, said Moose. We arranged to receive the vaccines from the county health department, and we provided registered nurses to give the vaccines.
For the fall 2023 clinics, Ei and Martin decided to expand offerings to include free STI/HIV testing for any campus community member, enlisting Onyeike to coordinate those services.
More than 100 students showed up to the Oct. 27 clinic. Student health services administered all 50 doses of the vaccine on hand, and STAPs prevention team conducted nine tests in total. However, demand far exceeded the supply, with more than 25 people on the testing waiting list.
This kind of turnout highlights the need for free testing in the University community, Ei said. Unfortunately, we had to turn away a lot of students, so I think we felt even more determined to provide additional testing and other resources and services to the University in the future.
In addition to clinics like this, the Q Center supports many other collaborative health initiatives to bring needed resources to the LGBTQ+ and other communities, specifically mental health services, through the University Counseling Center. Martin is also in consultation with the campus CARE (Consultation, Advocacy, Referral and Education) Team and Violence, Abuse, Rape Crisis Center (VARCC) to highlight those services to the students the center serves. The Q Center also has a peer mentorship program with a paid student staff to facilitate inclusion, self-expression and a sense of belonging.
I spoke with many of the students at the last clinic who had never been to the Q Center, Martin said, and a handful who did not identify within the LGBTQ+ community. For me, this illustrates just how important campus collaborations are and how they can improve the well-being and feelings of inclusivity and belonging for everyone across the entire campus community.
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A sweeping ban on COVID-19 vaccine mandates for employees of private Texas businesses is on its way to Gov. Greg Abbotts desk, carrying with it a $50,000 fine for employers who punish workers for refusing the shot.
Senate Bill 7, by state Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, cleared its final hurdle Tuesday when senators agreed on a 17-11 vote to accept the House version of the legislation, which raised the fine from the $10,000 initially proposed in the bill.
The legislation, which Republican lawmakers have been trying to pass since 2021, offers no exceptions for doctors offices, clinics or other health facilities. The bill also includes unpaid volunteers and students working in medical internships or other unpaid positions as part of graduation requirements.
Private employers are allowed by the legislation to require unvaccinated employees and contractors to wear protective gear, such as masks, or enact other reasonable measures to protect medically vulnerable people who work or come into their places of businesses or medical facilities.
The legislation makes it illegal, however, for any employer to take action against or otherwise place requirements on an unvaccinated employee that the Texas Workforce Commission determines would adversely affect the employee or constitute punishment.
Bill sponsors said the ban will be the strongest in the nation.
At the end of the day, this is about protecting the individual's ability [to stay employed] and making sure that they have the right to choose whether or not to get the shot, Middleton said.
Enforcement would be handled through employee complaints to the workforce commission, with violators subject to the fine and potential lawsuits by the Texas attorney general.
Opponents of the bill, mostly Democrats, argued that it took away business owners freedom to decide who to hire, which contractors to do business with, and how to keep their customers and employees safe. Critics also argued that the ban would prevent health care professionals from imposing vaccine policies that lower the risk of viral spread for their patients.
Some lawmakers also said they were concerned that business owners could be subject to expensive legal and administrative costs for trying to enact other measures to protect their employees, like requiring unvaccinated employees to change offices or work remotely. The bill is vague on whether such actions would be prohibited.
Are you telling me if I'm making my living, running a food truck, and I want to hire someone to help me flip the burgers, and I happen to be one of those crazy people who think that COVID is bad for me, I can't precondition their employment on them being vaccinated? said state Sen. Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas. Wheres the balance in that?
Abbott included the ban in his agenda for the special legislative session, which ends next week.
Texans lived for three years under a statewide COVID-19 emergency declaration, which Abbott maintained in spite of pushback from his party. He promised to lift it only after lawmakers had codified his executive orders that prohibited local COVID restrictions.
During the regular legislative session, lawmakers obliged by prohibiting local governments from requiring masks, vaccines or business shutdowns in response to COVID-19. That law went into effect Sept. 1. Efforts to extend the ban to private businesses, however, fell short.
Abbott ended the emergency declaration over the summer, which the bills supporters say triggered a critical need to protect workers who did not want to be vaccinated against the virus.
The vaccination programme this winter season offers a flu vaccine in the form of a nasal spray for children aged 2-12 years and an injectable flu vaccine for other eligible individuals.
The flu and COVID-19 booster vaccines are available through participating GPs and pharmacies and can be administered at the same time.
The uptake of these vaccines has been high so far, Dept of Health has confirmed.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Breda Smyth advised the vaccines are safe and effective. Meanwhile, she also highlighted the importance of good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
As the two vaccines can be administered at the same time, its a quick and easy way for people to protect their health, as well as protecting those around them, Professor Smyth said.
Young children in particular are more likely to be very sick from flu, so I am asking parents to please consider getting your child vaccinated.
The flu vaccine for children is a nasal spray and is administered quickly and painlessly, she added.
The nasal spray flu vaccine for children is available in some primary schools. Children who missed out on the flu vaccine in schools can still get them through GPs and pharmacies.
The flu vaccine is available free of charge for all persons aged 65 years and over, children aged 2 to 12, pregnant individuals, and patients aged 6-23 months and 13-64 years at increased risk of flu-related complications.
Those who can also get the flu vaccine for free are residents of nursing homes and other long-stay facilities, household contacts of people with underlying conditions or Down Syndrome, and Out of Home Care Givers (carers for people who have underlying chronic health conditions or have Down Syndrome).
Meanwhile, the COVID-19 boosters are available for those aged 50 years and older and those aged 5-49 years with immunocompromise associated with a suboptimal response to vaccination or with medical conditions associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation, severe disease or death.
The boosters are also available for pregnant persons if it is more than six months since their previous vaccine or COVID-19 infection.
All healthcare workers can get COVID-19 boosters and flu vaccines free of charge at walk-in vaccination clinics. The locations around the country can be found on the HSE website.
Chief Nursing Officer Rachel Kenna said: I am encouraging everyone who is eligible to please make an appointment to receive your flu jab and COVID-19 booster to help minimise the risk of serious illness.
