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Omicron at a Hospital in Brooklyn

By Jeralyn, Section Coronavirus
Posted on Sat Jan 15, 2022 at 07:14:13 PM EST
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The New York Times: What Omicron Looks Like in One New York Hospital

Ms. Williams was one of only two nurses working on the Covid-19 ward, with its 36 patients. A few were on ventilators.... One was curled in a fetal position and moaning for water; another was asking to eat. Patients were crammed into every corner, their gurneys arranged, Ms. Williams thought, like blocks in a game of Tetris.

....[T]the patients keep arriving, and in droves: More than 15,000 people with Covid-19 have been hospitalized in the city in the past four weeks, the most since the initial surge. About half of all patients in the city’s hospitals now have Covid-19. And there are simply not enough nurses to care for them all.

[More...]

Brooklyn Hospital is independent. Most of the patients are Black and poor, relying on Medicaid. It treated returning soldiers in the Civil War. Dr. Anthony Fauci was born at Brooklyn Hospital.

Omicron may be beginning to decline in New York City and other places, but at this hospital, the lack of staff and continuing increase in admissions of COVID-19 patients has been overwhelming, resulting in inadequate care. Reading through some of the examples, you would think this hospital is in a third world country.

I hope Justice Neil Gorsuch reads the Times article on the hospital in Brooklyn, and rethinks his decision to be the only unmasked Judge at Supreme Court arguments.

Gorsuch had to know that his masklessness could make other justices uncomfortable, including the 83-year-old Stephen Breyer and the 67-year-old Sotomayor, who has diabetes, a Covid risk factor. Sotomayor sits next to Gorsuch on the bench and, notably, chose not to attend Friday’s argument in person. She participated remotely, from her chambers.

I just don't understand people who refuse to wear a suitable mask, thinking only of themselves. We should be better than this.

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    Omicron at a Hospital in Brooklyn | 133 comments (133 topical)

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    I do not understand people who would rather (5.00 / 4) (#1)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 15, 2022 at 08:14:45 PM EST
    die in an ICU than getting vaxed and boosted.

    I really think (5.00 / 2) (#4)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 07:19:30 AM EST
    that is the biggest tell of what a cult and a religion it has become.

    They are literally willing to die.  I can more understand the reaction if you really don't believe it's real, more than you would believe, but I really don't get the ones who take horse meds and drink bleach or pee instead of taking a free vaccine.    They are as lost and brainwashed as any North Korean or Moonie.  

    That sounds like hyperbole but it's not.

    Parent

    It is a cult (5.00 / 1) (#15)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 12:01:40 PM EST
    because they are willing to die rather than admit they were wrong. They have drunk the kool aid.

    Parent
    Best way to own the Libs (none / 0) (#6)
    by jmacWA on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 07:32:47 AM EST
    DIE for your cause.

    Parent
    Personally I feel fully owned (5.00 / 1) (#8)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 10:26:18 AM EST
    as well as shocked, stunned and deeply saddened.

    Thoughts and prayers for each and every lost antivaxxer.

    Parent

    False Choice (1.00 / 1) (#116)
    by Abdul Abulbul Amir on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 11:13:19 AM EST

    Unlike more enlightened countries in Europe that recognize the SCIENCE showing natural immunity superior to VAX in this country nurses with natural immunity are being turned away in a nursing shortage!!!!!!  

    The vax is not risk free.  Blood clots and heart inflammation among other adverse side effects do exist.  

    The religious denial of natural immunity is troubling.

    Parent

    The science (5.00 / 1) (#117)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 01:53:51 PM EST
    shows that natural immunity wanes far earlier than vaccinations. Getting natural immunity means you have to risk dying. The natural immunity crowd has a 13x higher risk of dying than people that just get the shot.

    But then what should we expect from conservatives who advocate washing down cattle wormer with a glass of urine.

    Parent

    Risk of death (1.00 / 4) (#125)
    by Abdul Abulbul Amir on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 07:50:45 AM EST

    Here is data from the UK that shows how vaccination affects the risk of death in children.

    Parent

    If this is the best you can do (5.00 / 3) (#126)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 07:57:52 AM EST
    You should really just stop.  

    that chart, as the link shows, is from here

    Parent

    From the "about" page (5.00 / 2) (#127)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 08:02:14 AM EST
    The Exposé was set up due to a lack of alternatives to the lying mainstream media, and a lack of alternatives which report only the facts. Other alternative media sites are happy to publish articles backed up with zero or questionable evidence. Whereas the mainstream media simply refuse to publish the truth or publish half-truths, spun in a way to suit the narrative of the very authorities which are funding them through advertising fees for publishing propaganda.  And to provide useful idiots with serious sounding taking points.

    Ok
    I added that last part.  That's only implied.

    Parent

    6 months ago (5.00 / 3) (#128)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 09:05:04 AM EST
    Actors Behind UK Misinformation Site The Daily Expose Revealed



    Parent

    Tiresome (5.00 / 3) (#129)
    by BGinCA on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 12:08:21 PM EST
    If you want to impart some information or express a belief, fine. But to just make some claims that have absolutely no basis in fact and are solely designed to 'own the libs' at the expense of pealed lives.. well what can I say. from the same study from which this chart was supposedly taken:
    "Over the whole period (1 January to 31 October 2021), the age-adjusted risk of deaths involving COVID-19 was 96% lower in people who had received a second dose at least 21 days ago compared with unvaccinated people."
    Obviously you have no concern at all for facts. This is the first and only time I will engage with you.
    https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/deaths involvingcovid19byvaccinationstatusengland/latest#monthly-age-standardised-mortality-rates-by-vaccin ation-status-non-covid-19-deaths

    Parent
    When people complain ... (5.00 / 1) (#131)
    by Yman on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 12:19:10 PM EST
    ... about Boomers believing any ridiculous garbage they read on the internet - without regard for the source - I feel like I need to defend the majority of Boomers who are smarter than that ...

    ... then I read a post like yours.

    Parent

    So (5.00 / 1) (#118)
    by FlJoe on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 02:13:14 PM EST
    NOW you are are all in with those dirty Euro socialists? Next a suppose you will be advocating for single payer health care and robust safety net programs, I won't be holding my breath.

    Parent
    Hahahahahahahahaha .... (5.00 / 2) (#119)
    by Yman on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 09:33:18 PM EST
    Complaining about "false choices," while offering a ...
    ... false choice.

    It's not either/or.  Vaccines increase protection even for those who have some level of immunity after recovering from COVID.  No one claimed vaccines are 100% risk-free, but the risks from vaccines FAR outweigh the risks of going unvaccinated and all of the issues from a much higher risk of serious illness/hospitalization.

    Weird how the "Just comply!" crowd is scared of a shot and no longer wants to comply because of some garbage they saw on Fox/OAN.

    Parent

    They also carry risk as you note (1.50 / 2) (#121)
    by Abdul Abulbul Amir on Wed Jan 26, 2022 at 09:15:31 PM EST

    But your assertion that the the risk outweighs the benefit appears to be true only for the population as a whole, but you offer no evidence that it is so for those with natural immunity.   Or even more so among the recovered young who are at higher risk for heart inflammation.

    Parent
    There is plenty of evidence ... (5.00 / 1) (#130)
    by Yman on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 12:12:18 PM EST
    ... that getting a vaccine produces additional protection, even for those who have already had COVID - and the risks of the vaccine are incredibly small.  But since you claim to want evidence, I'll tell you what - you post links to studies supporting your wingnut, b@tshit claims, then I'll do the same.  Of course, mine are from peer=reviewed studeis - not a Joe Rogan podcast or a demon seed "doctor".

    Parent
    By "natural immunity" (5.00 / 1) (#134)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Mon Jan 31, 2022 at 02:48:51 PM EST
    I assume you mean protection as a result of having had and survived covid?

    If so, in a recent study published in the journal Science, they gave people 25-ug vaccinations (which is 1/4 of the standard 100-ug dose) and the quantities of the resulting antibodies at 7 months later were similar to the quantities at 7 months of people who had gotten sick.

    iow, "natural" immunity is much weaker than getting vaxxed.

    Parent

    Sorry, but ... (5.00 / 3) (#2)
    by Donald from Hawaii on Sat Jan 15, 2022 at 09:41:44 PM EST
    Jeralyn: "We should be better than this."

    ... we're not. I'd say about 70% of us are really trying to do the right thing but for the remaining 25-30%, there is no us in them.

    Stay safe.

    I am really tired of the (5.00 / 8) (#3)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 05:53:49 AM EST
    crocodile tears for this stupid tennis player.  Australia did exactly what they should have done.  I'm listening to a stream of people on CNN wringing their hands over all he has been through.  Poor guy.  

    F that.  You want to play, great, get vaccinated or STFU.

    Support the decision 100% (5.00 / 1) (#10)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 11:26:38 AM EST
    I hope he is prevented from participating in all the top events. Absolutely no sympathy for any antivacer and definitely not one who knowingly went out and about when he knew he had Covid.

    Parent
    I feel the same way about (none / 0) (#18)
    by Chuck0 on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 02:24:20 PM EST
    footb all players. Get vaxxed or retire. No vax,no play

    Parent
    Yes the tennis player Novak Djokovich (5.00 / 1) (#19)
    by fishcamp on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 03:26:25 PM EST
    Lied to his own country, lied to Spain, and lied to Australia with the story that he was immune since he recently had the virus.  He said he wasn't aware he had tested positive  when he was hugging children and hitting tennis balls in the streets of Serbia.  He then said he hadn't traveled to other countries when he had been to Spain.  Then he gained entry into Australia by saying his manager had checked the wrong box on an immigration form.  Serbians have a bad reputation.

    Australia waffled by letting him in and then rescinded their decision.  That was bad.  They should have refused him entry immediately.  Even though he is the number one tennis player in the world he will be booed at every match forever.  I don't like him.

    Parent

    It's everywhere here (5.00 / 2) (#5)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 07:28:55 AM EST
    I have an important dr appt Tuesday and I'm considering a reschedule.  I am actually the only person I know locally who has not had it.  My friends and siblings have had mild cases with no hospitalization but lots of others not so lucky.  I personally know of about 10 deaths of people I'm acquainted with.  I'm sure there is more.

    Also, I say I haven't had it but I don't know because I've not been tested since the early days.  I have no had symptoms

    I assume you've seen the video of Aus newscasters (5.00 / 1) (#9)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 10:45:09 AM EST
    discussing him?

    Parent
    My son has hip surgery scheduled for Wednesday (none / 0) (#12)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 11:36:38 AM EST
    He had to get a Covid test yesterday. Not sure if his current symptoms are from his ongoing allergy/sinus problems or from a mild case of Covid. His hip is in extremely bad shape. I sure hope he can get it fixed Wednesday.

    Parent
    Best of luck to him (none / 0) (#20)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 03:52:36 PM EST
    I definitely feel him.  I appear to have avoided that.  At least for now.  Now I'm wrestling with the decision of going to the consultation with the Ortho guys on Tuesday or delaying it, and delaying knowing what the hell my problem actually is, until it's less crazy.

    The office is always packed.  They are masked but there is always someone or two with it pulled down under their nose or even their chin.

    It's a decision.  Im going to see if we can zoom.  

    I was looking at the google tracker earlier.  The numbers in the rural counties around here especially the one where my appt is are unbelievable.


    Parent

    Oh dopey me. (5.00 / 2) (#27)
    by MO Blue on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 05:42:11 PM EST
    My son's surgery was scheduled for today and not on Wednesday. I had the right date on my calendar.

    Any how, the good news is that his symptoms were allergy related, he tested negative and had his surgery today.

    Haven't talked to him yet but the surgeon was nice enough to call me after the surgery to tell me it went well. He should be in a room and coherent in another hour or so and I will call him then.

    Parent

    I think this is right (none / 0) (#21)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 04:47:28 PM EST
    Omicron surge hasn't hit rural communities ... yet

    Or rather I think it's kicking in right now.  At least locally.

    Parent

    There are 2 sports bars in this (none / 0) (#22)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 09:02:44 PM EST
    strip mall by my house. They cater a lot to the younger crowd. There are numerous other stores in the mall so there are a lot of parking spaces. Football playoffs today. Today/tonight there was not a single space left and people were lined up parking on the street. It had to be standing room only in those bars. I anticipate our COVID numbers to get even worse than they are now.

    Parent
    I just delayed it (5.00 / 3) (#23)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Jan 17, 2022 at 07:48:09 AM EST
    for one week.  And rescheduled for 8 am.  First appt of the day.  Hopefully I can get in and get out.  

    Parent
    Wearing a mask, (5.00 / 3) (#11)
    by KeysDan on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 11:36:23 AM EST
    especially around vulnerable fellow justices, is the decent thing to do.  And, scandalous when masking and other public heath measures are a practice of the Supreme Court.  

    However, a mask-less Gorsuch symbolizes "big government subjugation",  in keeping with thinking in the land of DeSantistan.   In my view, it is his equivalent of wearing a red MAGA cap.   And, even worse it is emblematic of a Court that seems decreasingly worried about coming across as Republican hacks.

    They might as well wear the red hat. (5.00 / 2) (#13)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 11:39:40 AM EST
    No one is fooled on either side of the aisle. Not sure R's really care about public opinion since it doesn't seem to affect their power structure.

    Parent
    Let's not breeze by (5.00 / 1) (#53)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:29:03 PM EST
    the fact the Supreme Court just turned over all Trumps secrets to the committee.

    It's a BFD.  It really is.

    8 to 1 (5.00 / 2) (#65)
    by KeysDan on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 08:09:05 PM EST
    Thomas dissenting.   Need to learn more about Ginni's role, if any, in the January 6 insurrection.

    Parent
    Somebody (none / 0) (#56)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 06:12:02 PM EST
    said it has been a really bad day for Trump with the SC decision and then Tish James calling them all to testify about bank, tax and insurance fraud. I am surprised the NY investigation is still civil and not converted to criminal. I expect all of them to show up and plead the 5th over 500 times like Eric did.

    Parent
    There is a criminal investigation in NY (none / 0) (#57)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 06:17:30 PM EST
    they were saying today the testimony in the civil case might be delayed until after the criminal case because legal stuff about information in the civil case being used in the criminal case.

    Parent
    Boosted! (5.00 / 5) (#99)
    by Chuck0 on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 08:41:38 PM EST
    As 1/21/2022.

    RIP Thich Nhat Hanh (5.00 / 2) (#112)
    by jondee on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 10:34:29 AM EST
    Cloud hidden, whereabouts unknown.

    Next Time You Are at the Gym (none / 0) (#7)
    by RickyJim on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 10:19:58 AM EST
    Take a look around and notice how many have masks covering both their nose and mouth, mouth only, and chin only.  It varies I am sure but when I am in a weight room, out of sight of the desk attendants, I typically notice 1/3, 1/2, 1/6.  Sometimes I notice a group of say 3 or 4  people getting into a tight circle, yanking down their masks and start yakking away at each other.  Luckily this area is large enough that I can keep at least 10 feet away from these a****s.  Of course, there are signs all over the place explaining proper mask usage.

    Sometimes you just need to laugh (none / 0) (#14)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 11:59:01 AM EST
    As the pandemic enters its third year, some of America's COVID-era shopping habits -- including strong demand for tequila and sweatpants -- are here to stay.

    axios

    I have long (none / 0) (#16)
    by Ga6thDem on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 12:04:43 PM EST
    had an affection for sweat pants. I'm glad to see now others are joining me.

    Nothing can make tequila palatable to me. Just the smell of it makes me nauseous. We went to a tequila factory when we were visiting Puerto Vallarta and the only sample I could stomach were the ones that were so flavored that I could not smell or taste the tequila.

    Parent

    Oh, I'm kinda (5.00 / 3) (#17)
    by MO Blue on Sun Jan 16, 2022 at 12:32:32 PM EST
    fond of a good margarita now and again. IMO you just have to have one (or 2) when eating Mexican food.

    I did expand my sweat pants (joggers) wardrobe over the last 3 years.

    Parent

    www.usps.com/Covid test (none / 0) (#24)
    by fishcamp on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 05:15:56 PM EST
    It's free, order now

    I wonder how accurate they are (none / 0) (#25)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 05:27:26 PM EST
    A friend is currently down with covid.  At the beginning, when he was already having cough and fever, 2 rapid tests were negative.

    It took the kind that takes a day or two to confirm he had it.

    Parent

    Accuracy (none / 0) (#28)
    by BGinCA on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 06:26:07 PM EST
    The accuracy of the test differs significantly if it is taken by symptomatic or asymptomatic users.
    "For people with symptoms of COVID-19, the tests correctly gave a positive result an average of 72 percent of the time. The 95 percent confidence intervals were 63.7 to 79 percent, meaning that the researchers were 95 percent confident that the average fell between these two values...
    The researchers found that people without COVID-19 symptoms correctly tested positive in 58.1 percent of rapid tests. The 95 percent confidence intervals were 40.2 to 74.1 percent."

    per the CDC
    https://www.healthline.com/health/how-accurate-are-rapid-covid-tests#at-home-tests

    Parent

    Ok (none / 0) (#29)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 06:33:10 PM EST
    I guess that puts my friend in the 28%

    Parent
    Twice (none / 0) (#31)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 06:43:03 PM EST


    Parent
    And what level of accuracy did they find (none / 0) (#33)
    by Peter G on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 09:19:50 PM EST
    for allegedly negative results on the rapid test?

    Parent
    Accuracy (5.00 / 1) (#35)
    by BGinCA on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 11:10:42 PM EST
    Highly accurate:
    Per a study by the Univ. of Birmingham:
    "... if 1000 people with symptoms had the antigen test, and 50 (5%) of them really had COVID‐19:

    ‐ 53 people would test positive for COVID‐19. Of these, 9 people (17%) would not have COVID‐19 (false positive result).

    ‐ 947 people would test negative for COVID‐19. Of these, 6 people (0.6%) would actually have COVID‐19 (false negative result)

    In people with no symptoms of COVID‐19... Using summary results ...in a  bigger population of 10,000 people with no symptoms, where 50 (0.5%) of them really had COVID‐19:

    ‐ 125 people would test positive for COVID‐19. Of these, 90 people (72%) would not have COVID‐19 (false positive result).

    ‐ 9,875 people would test negative for COVID‐19. Of these, 15 people (0.2%) would actually have COVID‐19 (false negative result)."

    So basically there is less than 1% chance of a false negative.
    https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD013705.pub2/full#CD013705-abs-0002

    Parent

    I read that a second rapid test (none / 0) (#61)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:36:44 PM EST
    The following day if your first is negative, tends to be more accurate in disclosing if you are infectious than the PCR.

    Parent
    Signing up was so quick and easy (none / 0) (#26)
    by MO Blue on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 05:36:46 PM EST
    I had expected the site to be overwhelmed. Not everyone might know that you can sign up tonight rather than tomorrow morning so that might explain how quick it was.

    Parent
    I (5.00 / 5) (#36)
    by FlJoe on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 04:45:17 AM EST
    don't see the media celebrating the success of this rollout, it doesn't fit their narrative of a flailing Biden presidency.

    Parent
    You have to look to those (none / 0) (#44)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 03:00:33 PM EST
    dastardly never Trumpers for a balanced opinion.

    You won't find it in the librul media.

    It's Wildly Premature to Call Biden a Failed President

    January 19, 2022 at 10:32 am EST By Taegan Goddard 128 Comments

    Max Boot: "Biden was never going to be another FDR or LBJ, not with only 50 votes in the Senate. He was lucky to pass more than $3 trillion in spending last year, with $1.2 trillion of that coming in a bipartisan infrastructure bill. Why isn't that good enough for his supporters?"

    "But nor is he destined to become another Jimmy Carter -- a one-term president who is widely, perhaps unfairly, perceived as a failure."

    "A large part of Biden's problem is that presidents get blamed for a lot of things they have little control over -- in his case, Covid-19 and inflation."



    Parent
    CNN (5.00 / 1) (#66)
    by FlJoe on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 06:34:50 AM EST
    is puke worthy this morning, they have taken upon themselves to utterly trash Biden, often taking up Republican talking points to do so, even abandoning both siderism to do so.

    Parent
    I gotta say MJoe (5.00 / 1) (#67)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 07:54:47 AM EST
    was not horrible.  They were more balanced that the norm on MSNBC.   They made jokes about Biden rambling (he did) but called out others for pearl clutching because he made a "gaff" about Ukraine who listened to Trump for years without a word.

    I think Biden was good yesterday.  He stood there and took it.  Even from the nut case right wing participants.  For two hours.  He was cogent and rational if a bit loquacious  I thought he sounded very competent.

    That's basically what they said.

    Parent

    I agree (none / 0) (#68)
    by KeysDan on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 08:24:14 AM EST
    President Biden did very well, fielding a range of questions, explaining positions and awakening the media to the nihilist and destructive Republicans.  I was hoping that in response to that insulting and disrespectful question of that rwnj about -- why some question his cognitive skills, he would have said maybe they are the same ones who wonder why drinking urine is not standard protocol for treating COVID.

    The presser should put those cognitive questions to bed.  I think his Ukraine discussion was not a gaff, but an intended outcome message.  And, it was good that he explained that when you follow science , you do not follow a straight line.  Hope the media grasped that fundamental understanding.

    Parent

    It should but it won't (none / 0) (#71)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:24:01 AM EST
    I did think he handled the Newsmax question about it perfectly.

    It was exactly the right answer.

    Parent

    Yes, (none / 0) (#73)
    by KeysDan on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:48:54 AM EST
    you are right.

    Parent
    John Malone, (none / 0) (#75)
    by KeysDan on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 11:25:22 AM EST
    the billionaire new stakeholder in Discovery Communications has expressed his desire to "return" CNN to the reporting of the past, lauding the great reporting of FOX.  And, apparently, CNN has not been doing so well in the Biden era.

    Parent
    We also signed up (none / 0) (#32)
    by Peter G on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 09:17:15 PM EST
    Why the hell not? In our family, it's mandatory for any visit to see grandchildren under 5. Buying one in the CVS around her cost $15-$20 per. They were 2 for $25 three weeks ago.

    Parent
    received our two free test kits today (none / 0) (#120)
    by Peter G on Tue Jan 25, 2022 at 06:52:39 PM EST
    Plan to use one on Friday, which will be five days after I returned from my first trip in over a year to a large out-of-town meeting.

    Parent
    Please note (none / 0) (#124)
    by BGinCA on Sat Jan 29, 2022 at 05:56:00 PM EST
    If you are asymptomatic you are advised to take a second test 24 hrs later. So for a household of 2 people you basically get two tests per month (Medicare). Use them wisely!  I usually get one free PCR test per week.

    Parent
    Have not received my free tests yet (none / 0) (#122)
    by MO Blue on Thu Jan 27, 2022 at 04:06:01 PM EST
    I needed one last week. My local Walgreens had a huge stock of them and offered 2 separate brands. They were selling them for 2 for $23.99 pre tax. CVS did not have any in stock at my regular store. Their automated phone message said that you had to process an insurance claim after purchase to get reimbursed. Think Walgreens is following the same process.

    Parent
    My older brother has covid (none / 0) (#30)
    by CaptHowdy on Tue Jan 18, 2022 at 06:42:37 PM EST
    Again.  Not the first family member to do a do-over.

    What a bummer (none / 0) (#39)
    by MO Blue on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 11:12:25 AM EST
    Hope is doing alright.

    Parent
    His symptoms are mild (none / 0) (#40)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 12:47:45 PM EST
    like last time😒

    Parent
    Our daughter is very sick (none / 0) (#42)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 02:00:32 PM EST


    Parent
    That link does not work for me (none / 0) (#37)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 06:29:20 AM EST
    this one does

    Yep
    Pretty easy

    Strangely Jeralyn your link didn't work (none / 0) (#38)
    by fishcamp on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 08:31:47 AM EST
    for me, but Howdy's did, and it's the same link I posted.  Maybe just using usps.com works.  Once you do get there it's very simple to order the four test kits.

    My daughter received hers yesterday. Go Joe. (5.00 / 1) (#115)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 10:24:53 AM EST


    Parent
    you are right (none / 0) (#114)
    by Jeralyn on Sun Jan 23, 2022 at 03:32:15 AM EST
    my link didn't work either, I deleted my comment! Thank you and Howdy for pointing that out.

    Parent
    I know it isn't cool to dis Joe (none / 0) (#41)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 01:59:58 PM EST
    And I ordered my tests yesterday and the website is great.

    We are at 3,000 deaths a day though and that isn't going to get better soon. Hard to imagine it doesn't get worse. We need more than these 4 tests per household.

    I don't understand why free tests easily available didn't become the norm after his inauguration.

    Our daughter is very sick in Alabama. Immunosuppressed. Hopefully can get into the doctor this afternoon

    I'm getting scared again. Don't really know what to think but smoothing this over isn't going to work for me Joe. I need real solutions and moving his arse out of Joe Biden this afternoon.

    What do you envision (none / 0) (#43)
    by oculus on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 02:40:43 PM EST
    as the most effective means Biden coiuld employ?   In light of the current SCOTUS.

    Parent
    The activist justices on SCOTUS (none / 0) (#45)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:04:09 PM EST
    Seem to smell Trump blood in the water.

    Daughter is in line at an Urgent Care. I hope she gets access to the anti-viral if she has Covid. I don't know what the availability is right now.

    Messaged Michal in Poland during the Biden speech. He is going to University of Warsaw and really a history buff for that region. He says that the UK and the US and other NATO members have supplied Ukraine with some serious weaponry. While we twist a kerchief over our possible involvement he said Ukraine can really Jack some Russians up and they're ready to, all by themselves.

    Parent

    It looks (5.00 / 1) (#50)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:18:18 PM EST
    like the UK is about to throw out their Putin bot Boris. So that is a positive too when it comes to Ukraine.

    I really hope your daughter gets better soon. I am so sorry she is sick. I hope Bug and the rest are staying well. My grandson is not vaccinated. My DIL has been stupid in this area.  

    Parent

    I am so sorry (none / 0) (#51)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:19:24 PM EST


    Parent
    She's Covid positive (none / 0) (#54)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:38:21 PM EST
    No anti-viral available. Out of stick

    That's the crap that pisses me off. A day late and short on tests and anti-virals. He stood up there and bragged about the anti-virals, but they are out of stock. I'm steaming mad! Her husband is here taking a military course. She has 4 kids and 1 step to care for.

    Parent

    Oh, no, I am so sorry (none / 0) (#55)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 06:08:55 PM EST
    Are you in Alabama? If I were closer I would be glad to come over and help.

    If this is a serious nationwide problem with a shortage of anti-virals he needs to invoke the DPA and solve it.

    Parent

    I am in Maryland now (none / 0) (#58)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 06:53:31 PM EST
    I was there in November and December helping.

    Parent
    How about the new pills? (none / 0) (#60)
    by oculus on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:28:16 PM EST


    Parent
    The supply that (none / 0) (#62)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:40:56 PM EST
    Biden ordered isn't available yet. Nothing available in Enterprise. She is going to a monoclonal clinic in Dothan AL tomorrow that is supposed to be at Flowers hospital to see if they can do anything to help her fight it.

    Parent
    Kids must be in school (none / 0) (#63)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:43:43 PM EST
    But when military dad is gone and your mom gets sick because the kids bring it home, mom is on her own.

    Parent
    I need Biden to fight (none / 0) (#46)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:07:35 PM EST
    These stateside b*st*rds. Be done with looking for his 3 magic Republican Senators.

    Let's go behind the gym, take care of Corn Pop.

    Parent

    The problem (5.00 / 1) (#49)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:13:09 PM EST
    really is Manchin and Sinema and their elusive search for the holy grail of bipartisanship. So extremely tired of the unicorn talk. Republicans are never going to do anything to move the country forward.

    Parent
    Not sure they are searching for (5.00 / 1) (#59)
    by oculus on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:27:35 PM EST
    bipartisanship as opposed to personal recognition, and, of course, campaign donations.

    Parent
    Well (none / 0) (#47)
    by Ga6thDem on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:08:52 PM EST
    Were there any tests available to send out a year ago? I think the 4 number is totally random. Your daughter probably could use about 4 or 5 x that number of tests. In my area if you can find a COVID test you are lucky because they sell out constantly. Our neighborhood Facebook page regularly has people asking where they can find a COVID test. But 4 tests should be enough for just my husband and myself.

    As far as the number dying, I'm not sure Biden can do much about that. It's like 90% anti-vaxxers and they are refusing the get the vaccine and there is nothing Biden can do to change their minds.

    My anger right now is directed at Biden thinking once Trump was gone the GOP would work with him. I thought it was clueless when he said it and at least he's not spending a ton of time trying to get them on board.


    Parent

    Same (none / 0) (#48)
    by Militarytracy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:13:08 PM EST


    Parent
    People not on Medicare (none / 0) (#64)
    by MO Blue on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 07:43:48 PM EST
    Can get up to eight free tests per month through their insurance.

    Insurance companies and health plans are now required to cover eight free over-the-counter at-home tests per covered individual per month, according to White House officials. For instance, a family of four all on the same plan would be able to get up to 32 of these tests covered by their health plan per month.

    "We are requiring insurers and group health plans to make tests free for millions of Americans. This is all part of our overall strategy to ramp-up access to easy-to-use, at-home tests at no cost," Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra stated in a news release on Jan. 10.

    npr

    The "stupid" in this decision is to not allow Medicare recipients to enjoy this benefit. For everyone else it is a good thing.

    Parent

    Medicare (none / 0) (#69)
    by BGinCA on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:00:59 AM EST
    I'm not sure I understand. I am on medicare and just ordered 4 at-home tests on the government website. Do you mean there is no coverage in a pharmacy?

    Parent
    To expand a bit (5.00 / 1) (#76)
    by jmacWA on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 02:24:56 PM EST
    on what the Captn said.

    Medicare does not cover these covid tests at all, what you were able to order were from the stockpile the federal government is offering to all.  Standard Insurance companies are 'said to be' paying for them, but you have to lay out the funds first from what I understand.  Being on Medicare myself I don't know much about how exactly Insurance companies are handling this

    Parent

    Medicare (none / 0) (#83)
    by BGinCA on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 05:53:03 PM EST
    from an email I received from Medicare.gov:

    "Good news! Each household in the U.S. can now have four free COVID-19 at-home tests shipped directly to their home at no cost! All you need to do is visit COVIDtests.gov and enter your contact information and mailing address."
    Also:
    "Those in a Medicare Advantage Plan should check with their plan to see if their plan offers coverage and payment for at-home tests"

    Parent

    Yes I think so (none / 0) (#70)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:22:24 AM EST
    As I understand insurance is covering some number of tests.  Apart from the free ones.  Medicare does not.

    Biden actually mentioned the insurance coverage yesterday.

    Parent

    At home tests (none / 0) (#84)
    by BGinCA on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 12:45:42 PM EST
    I was finally able to get through to my Medicare Advantage plan and apparently Medicare does not provide the same level of coverage as required of private insures. There is no reimbursement for the purchase of At Home tests. So you can get the 4 monthly tests per household (good for one test per month for a family of two). Thank goodness older people are not susceptible to more severe Covid symptoms /s.


    Parent
    Do you like (none / 0) (#86)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 02:36:42 PM EST
    Medicare Advantage?  As opposed to regular Medicare.  Did you ever have regular Medicare!   Just curious.  

    Parent
    Medicare (none / 0) (#87)
    by BGinCA on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 02:54:22 PM EST
    I have regular medicare and Anthem Blue Medicare Advantage as a supplement supplied by my union for retirees.  Sometimes there is a mix up on the billing, but compared to the Byzantine Health Insurance issues dealt with by most Americans, I won't complain. This year my prescription benefits were changed to Medicare Part D. Sometimes I have to order a generic against the advice of my doctor and then get the name brand after I say it doesn't work. In what universe is the American health care system the best?

    Parent
    I confused (none / 0) (#88)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 03:18:04 PM EST
    I thought it was Medicare OR Medicare advantage.  

    I have a separate supplemental insurance.  But it's not Medicare advantage.  

    Personally my healthcare has been flawless and care free since I went on Medicare.  My prescription drugs are 2-5 bucks (for 3 months) and I never pay a penny out of  pocket.

    Parent

    I was asking (none / 0) (#89)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 03:21:46 PM EST
    because the commercials make me very curious.  If they can be believed I could save a couple of hundred dollars a month and get lots of additional benefits like dental and vision on a Advantage program.

    But I don't trust them.

    Parent

    I see (none / 0) (#90)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 04:26:50 PM EST
    I guess

    If you join a Medicare Advantage Plan, you'll still have Medicare but you'll get most of your Part A and Part B coverage from your Medicare Advantage Plan, not Original Medicare. You must use the card from your Medicare Advantage Plan to get your Medicare- covered services.

    It doesn't sound like you are that happy with your coverage.  I am very happy.  Which I guess would answer my question.

    Parent

    My brother (5.00 / 1) (#92)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 05:38:48 PM EST
    who is a doctor in SC says friends don't let friends get Medicare Advantage. I'm certainly no expert but my understanding is Medicare Advantage operates like an HMO. It works better in some areas than others. Since W. Bush is the one that passed this and we all know how he managed to screw up everything I would certainly worry.

    The positive is though if you get Medicare Advantage you can always go back to regular Medicare the next enrollment period.

    Parent

    Everyone I have asked about it (5.00 / 2) (#94)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 05:55:13 PM EST
    it's very hard to get good info, but the Drs and Pharmacists have all said stick with original Medicare.

    The only people saying something else are the "experts" who I suspect are being paid by the insurance companies.

    I once got into an argument with an "expert" who had set up a little booth in Walmart when I asked him who pays him.

    He didn't want to talk about that.

    Parent

    He was (5.00 / 1) (#95)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 06:16:56 PM EST
    paid by an insurance company to get people like you onto Medicare Advantage to get the insurance companies more money. This is why I am always wary about these "financial advisors" who send me stuff all the time about going to their meetings where they are going to explain social security to me and how I should work it.

    Parent
    Isn't there something about pricing (none / 0) (#93)
    by CaptHowdy on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 05:51:40 PM EST
    That you only get one shot at?  That if you leave and come back the price would not be the same?

    Parent
    They can actually factor in (5.00 / 1) (#104)
    by MO Blue on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 07:06:51 AM EST
    Your current and past health history if you try to change plans after your original sign up. Definitely will cost you more money that way.

    Parent
    I don't (none / 0) (#96)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 06:17:40 PM EST
    know anything about that. And I am not sure where to look for that information.

    Parent
    My (5.00 / 1) (#100)
    by BGinCA on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 08:44:26 PM EST
    mother had a MC Advantage plan. When this had gotten too expensive, we tried to switch her to Medicare. She was required to pay all the back medicare premiums she had not paid for all the years between age 65 and 85. As you can imagine this was a hella lot of cash. Stayed with MC Advantage.

    Parent
    I think that's Part D (none / 0) (#102)
    by jmacWA on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 04:14:56 AM EST
    Advantage is Part C (I think).  With D, if you don't sign up at the beginning, you have to pay a penalty if you later sign up.  This is likely what you are remembering.

    To me, unless you are currently taking expensive drugs D is a scam.  The Insurers can change their formulary at any time, but you have to chose your plan once a year.  I refuse to believe that there are NOT insurers who constantly run the numbers for the drugs on their plans and if they can save substantial bucks by dropping one they do.  

    IMO working for an insurance company would NOT qualify as Right Livelihood.  

    Parent

    Thich Nhat Hanh (5.00 / 1) (#103)
    by jmacWA on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 04:38:02 AM EST
    Very sad (for me).  Just after I wrote this I flipped to my next morning read and learned that Thay passed away in the early morning hours.  

    His book The Heart of the Buddhas Teaching was my first exposure to his writing, and I have read many of his books.  In fact I just went to my bookshelf yesterday to grab my copy of 'No Death, No Fear' to re-read it.

    Parent

    Exactly (none / 0) (#91)
    by BGinCA on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 05:37:45 PM EST
    I was/am confused. While working I had Anthem Blue Cross. Upon retiring I had to sign up for Medicare, so I thought that's what I had, plus BC as a supplement. But as you point out, BC is a MC Advantage plan. Other than the switch to Part D, I've been very happy.

    Parent
    jmacWA response is correct (none / 0) (#77)
    by MO Blue on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 03:22:53 PM EST
    You can get the 4 from the stockpile but cannot get the monthly free supply from the pharmacy if you are on Medicare.

    Parent
    Don't know if this type of option (none / 0) (#78)
    by MO Blue on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 03:33:57 PM EST
    is available in your area. Might be worth your time to do a little research.  The saliva test are said to detect Omicron sooner.

    St. Louis County announces free at-home COVID tests through 2 library branches

    Residents will soon be able to pick up at-home saliva tests from the Rock Road and Weber Road library branches.

    ksdk



    Parent
    The librarians must be thrilled. (none / 0) (#79)
    by desertswine on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 04:37:54 PM EST


    Parent
    Our libraries have done a fantastic job (5.00 / 1) (#80)
    by MO Blue on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 04:47:44 PM EST
    doing everything from distributing diapers, food, learning and on line recreational opportunities just to name a few of the many services they have provided. Along with distributing masks and test they are also providing the facilities to have your 2021 state and federal taxes prepared.

    I can't say enough about how wonderful they are.

    Parent

    As far as my brothers reinfection (none / 0) (#52)
    by CaptHowdy on Wed Jan 19, 2022 at 05:27:27 PM EST
    I believe it's his own fault.  That's my opinion.  He has listened to much to the wrong people and in spite of being fully vaxxed he, and a heluvalot of other people, have simply been careless.

    They were told, over and over, omicron was crazy infectious.  But he continued to socialize with morons including his grandchildren who I would not be in the same room with.  

    There was 15,000 new cases just in my state (none / 0) (#72)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:44:15 AM EST
    yesterday.

    The numbers for every surrounding country are right through the roof.  Higher than they have ever been.  By a lot.

    That chart (none / 0) (#74)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 09:50:06 AM EST
    makes it look like the numbers have been this high before

    It's a display glitch.  If you change the time frame to more clearly see each day you can see it's almost twice what it's been before.  I think the previous high for my tiny rural county was 58.  Yesterday 130.

    Parent

    Big day (none / 0) (#82)
    by CaptHowdy on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 05:44:48 PM EST
    Arkansas has biggest one-day spike in COVID hospitalizations

    LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- Arkansas reported its biggest one-day jump in COVID-19 hospitalizations Wednesday, a new record as the state continued to feel the surge of the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

    The state Department of Health said COVID-19 hospitalizations increased by 113 to 1,600. It's the second day in a row the state has set a new record for hospitalizations and the biggest one-day increase since August.

    The state also reported nearly 14,500 new virus cases, a new one-day record increase. However, the actual number of cases is likely higher because of people testing at home or who are infected and haven't been tested.

    The state reported 10 new COVID-19 deaths, bringing the total to 9,462 since the pandemic began in 2020.



    Parent
    The Supreme Court, (none / 0) (#81)
    by KeysDan on Thu Jan 20, 2022 at 05:04:52 PM EST
    once again, played into the Texas vigilante, bounty hunter scheme to ban abortions six weeks after the last menstrual period. A time-line in which most women do not yet know they are pregnant.  The ban remains in place---the Supreme Court declined to hasten the process that could block Texas SB 8.  

    Justice Sotomayor, in a dissent joined by Justices Breyer and Kagan, stated: " This case is a disaster for the rule of law and a gross disservice to the women of Texas who have a right to control their own bodies.  I will not stand silently as a State continues to nullify this constitutional guarantee."

    On Sunday, a local well-liked brewpub (none / 0) (#85)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 01:12:18 PM EST
    showed its last football games and poured its final pints of beer. We had lunch there and watched the Rams thump the Cardinals.

    On Monday a local well-liked independent/foreign movie theater showed its last films and filled its final bags of popcorn. We saw "Drive My Car."

    Stupid covid.

    Bye bye, cable (none / 0) (#98)
    by MKS on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 07:26:10 PM EST
    The better shows and movies are now on the internet via Netflix, Amazon Prime, Paramount, etc.

    And satellite t.v. too will be outdated soon.

    Parent

    I have no warm spot in my heart for cable (none / 0) (#101)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 11:13:56 PM EST
    and I'm not sure why cable even entered this discussion, but I do have a large warm spot in my heart for small independently owned movie theaters that offer unusual content that, absent these theaters, may not be made due to lack of potential revenues.

    Parent
    Monday I'm allegedly getting fiber optic (none / 0) (#105)
    by fishcamp on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 07:19:56 AM EST
    and I can't wait.  It's supposed to be faster and cheaper than cable and satellite .

    Parent
    We recently got it here (none / 0) (#106)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 07:41:00 AM EST
    It's very good but it's not cheaper.  Not everyone here can get it yet.  It's from one of the two local power companies.  I'm with the other.  But they say they will make it available to everyone but they are doing their power customers first.  

    I know several folks who have it.  It's very good.  But it's not really better than the cable service I have.  Which is actually very good.  The one upside is it's buried so ice or a runaway truck can't shut it down.

    And when I say cable I mean cable internet. I have not had cable tv in years.  But it's delivered the same way.

    But both of those are better than the local DSL.

    Parent

    They did have (none / 0) (#108)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 07:52:03 AM EST
    some kind of introductory deal but it did not last long.  The prices are very similar.  Also, here they offer package deals that include power, phone, internet and cable tv.  So people, like my older brother, think they are getting a great deal when they really are not if you take it apart

    Parent
    I woke my friend with fiber up (none / 0) (#110)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 09:43:56 AM EST
    and asked him how much he pays monthly.  He said after tax and stuff $54. I pay $56.

    Parent
    Cable is dying (none / 0) (#107)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 07:44:21 AM EST
    And good riddance.  They currently make their money off old folks who are not savvy enough to switch to a streaming service while they try to switch to some kind of streaming delivery.

    Parent
    Heh, Ozark (5.00 / 1) (#111)
    by MKS on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 10:13:43 AM EST
    is on Netflix, as I am sure you know.  Just released Season 4.

    Just gotta love Ruth.  Is her accent accurate; I think you said it was?

    And I have always had a crush on Laura Linney.

    Parent

    Ruth rocks (none / 0) (#132)
    by CaptHowdy on Sun Jan 30, 2022 at 05:06:24 PM EST

    performance of the week

    Parent
    Also (none / 0) (#109)
    by CaptHowdy on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 08:07:58 AM EST
    The biggest threat to cable companies are things like Sling.  Which is all the same channels you get with cable for 30 dollars a month.

    Parent
    You are correct (none / 0) (#113)
    by Ga6thDem on Sat Jan 22, 2022 at 11:29:08 AM EST
    A friend of mine who is 71 only 10 years older than me is always complaining about cable. I suggested streaming. She couldn't handle it.

    Sling has everything I ever watched on cable on their streaming service and the plus is I don't have to pay for garbage like Pat Robertson.

    Parent

    ...and this Sunday another local brew pub (none / 0) (#123)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Fri Jan 28, 2022 at 11:54:29 AM EST
    will close its doors forever.

    Parent
    Medicare/Medicare Advantage (none / 0) (#97)
    by Ga6thDem on Fri Jan 21, 2022 at 06:31:54 PM EST
    A friend has Medicare advantage. she lives in Ohio. She says that MA covers drugs, dental checkups and eye checkups. She qualifies for Medicaid. So she may have more of a Medicaid type plan than others. I can't see 2 dental checkups being worth much since according to her the plan doesn't pay for anything the dentist finds during a check up.

    Just heard of the first death (none / 0) (#133)
    by CaptHowdy on Mon Jan 31, 2022 at 08:22:52 AM EST
    from covid in the extended family.  This was a "live free or die".  So AFAIAC she got what she wanted.  Sorry.  Not sorry.

    Omicron at a Hospital in Brooklyn | 133 comments (133 topical)

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