Mutant Covid
Ok everyone, chill the F out. People are in an absolute tizzy about the Covid version that has recently arisen in the UK. Statements to the effect that it is 70% more transmissable are almost certainly ludicrous - this is already an exceptionally transmissable disease.
First off, if this mutation had arisen in Indonesia, no one would say a word in the US media. We are only hearing so much about it because it's coming from a western nation. There have been many mutations in Covid already and there will be many more.
But also worth noting is the UK has the best viral sequencing capabilities in the world, so the story we are seeing there could have already played out in many places, but without the light being shone on it.
Another possibility is an unknown spreader event may have created this regional outbreak and the fact that the virus version involved is somewhat new could be an irrelevant detail. Did you see the pictures from Harrod's in London on December 5th?
Viruses mutate. The more hosts they find, the more they have a chance to mutate. It would be shocking if it didn't mutate. Some mutations have been found to affect the spike protein, which is the target for both approved vaccines. If the virus is able to function after spike protien has mutated enough to avoid vaccine detection, we could definitely be in trouble, mostly because many millions of people are going to prematurely go "back to normal" after receiving a vaccine in the coming months. Moderna is claiming their vaccine still recognizes the new variant. And even if it didn't they could modify the mRNA included in their vaccine within week (so they say).
We pretty much know nothing about this UK variant so there is no point worrying. In a few weeks more info will come out. Until then, chill out, homie.
Healthcare is Dumb
Well, now, this is a clever idea. Standard healthcare is expensive in America. But know what's a lot cheaper? University student healthcare plans. And some Universities only require one credit hour per semester to be eligible for student insurance. Of course, there's the whole application/acceptance/enrollment issue, but it's interesting to think about the fact that paying to take college courses can actually save you money. Check out your options using this "Healthcare is Dumb" tool.
Pharma Bro in Love
The most hated man in pharma is a master manipulator. No news there. But last week a profile of a follower/love interest came out and let's just say it was sad. A fascinating look into romantic manipulation and what it can do to a victim. Most eye-opening quote:
“I don’t know if everything he was saying was true, but maybe like 1 percent is, and that’s awesome on its own.”
