Michigan continues to lead the country in the number of new COVID-19 cases. The state’s positivity rate has climbed to 18% — about four times higher than mid-February. COVID-19 inpatient hospitalizations are surging, causing Michigan Medicine (University of Michigan) and other local hospital systems to postpone elective surgeries. The state continues to increase vaccinations as it races against the spread of the virus – but increased vaccinations may not be enough.
Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan urged, but did not order, a two-week pause in face-to-face high school classes, indoor restaurant dining and youth sports. Governor Whitmer is also encouraging Michiganders to avoid indoor gatherings with friends for 2 weeks. She indicated that the 2 week pause is needed to help slow the increase in new cases and prevent Michigan’s health systems from being overwhelmed with COVD-19 patients.
This Weekend Reading Series begins with the Focus on Parkinson’s Disease, in recognition of April as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month. Read about the increasing prevalence of this disease, new research advances, and more. Next, check out the News of Note, featuring the great news that 500,000 Americans have enrolled in marketplace plans. Do not miss The Vax for insights and news on the COVID-19 vaccine. Last but not least, check out Catch-up on Ketchup – or is it Catsup?
I hope you enjoy the following:
1. Spotlight on Parkinson’s Disease
- Johns Hopkins Medical: Myths and Facts: 7 Parkinson’s Disease Misconceptions
- The Guardian: Rates of Parkinson’s disease are exploding. A common chemical may be to blame
- Medical Express: Using a smartwatch to help detect the progression of Parkinson’s disease
- Parkinson’s News Today: Subtle Changes in Natural Oil of Skin May Mark Parkinson’s Onset
2. News of Note
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): HHS Secretary Becerra Announces More Than 500,000 Americans Have Enrolled in Marketplace Coverage During Special Enrollment Period
- Healio: CDC updates guidance on cleaning surfaces based on ‘low’ risk for transmission
- STAT: 1 in 3 Covid-19 patients are diagnosed with a neuropsychiatric condition in the next six months, large study finds
- TIME: At Least 43,000 Kids in the U.S. Have Lost a Parent to COVID-19, Study Finds
3. The Vax
- NPR: Vaccine Refusal May Put Herd Immunity At Risk, Researchers Warn
- New York Times: Online Scammers Have a New Offer for You: Vaccine Cards
- USA Today: Got your COVID-19 vaccine card? These archivists know how to keep it safe
- STAT: For the first time in decades, vaccines are having a moment. Will it last?
4. Catch-up on Ketchup
- Newsweek: Why is There a Heinz Tomato Ketchup Shortage in the U.S.?
- Writing Explained: Catsup vs. Ketchup: What’s the Difference?
- Mashed: The Surprising Way Ketchup Was Used In The 1800s
- Newsweek: How to Make Your Own Ketchup and Beat the U.S. Shortage
Hope you enjoy the weekend!
Best,
Suzanne
Suzanne Daniels, Ph.D.
AEPC President
P.O. Box 1416
Birmingham, MI 48012
Office: (248) 792-2187
Email: [email protected]
