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In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss infectious disease activity around the nation.
Top highlights include: increased alcohol use during the pandemic, contract tracing slows the spread, FDA sets stricter standards for COVID-19 vaccine development, and Halloween safety tips during the pandemic.
The concept of at-home testing for COVID-19 sounds straightforward. But there's nuance to it that's important to understand. Right now, an at-home test for COVID-19 is not available, although there may be one coming soon. But in some areas, at-home sample collection is an option at this time.
When COVID-19 hit in early 2020, it brought a whirlwind of change. Staff in Mayo Clinic's Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology rose to the challenge with perseverance, flexibility, and resilience.
Dr. Pritt reviews how the timing and method of testing can affect the reliability of COVID-19 test results.
Dr. Pritt joins a group of testing experts to sort through the information and help clear up confusion about COVID-19 testing.
In a recent Wall Street Journal article that reviewed COVID-19 symptoms, treatment and prevention, William Morice, II, M.D., Ph.D., weighed in on the role of testing.
Top highlights include: things to consider before participating in-person at group gatherings, how to safely wear and remove a mask, "covid fatigue", and why getting vaccinated for the flue is doubly important this season.
Dr. Theel is transforming health care by vetting antibody tests and has set up a COVID-19 testing program at Mayo Clinic.
Top highlights include: youth sports safety during a pandemic, how flu vaccines can help in COVID-19 fight, vaccines amid the pandemic, and when you should get the flu shot.
Bobbi Pritt, M.D., and Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D., offered insight on testing accuracy, as well as circumstances that could affect a test's reliability.
Top highlights include: How to handle major surgery in the COVID-19 era, helping your children prepare for a COVID-19 test, Mayo Clinic tracking tool, and who should get the flu vaccine and when.
Zacher now works to assist staff who have transitioned to working from home as they learn new technology.