Good morning esteemed readers, and welcome to the analysis of the latest news from the “5 Things” podcast on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
In the most recent episode, USA TODAY Health Reporter Karen Weintraub provided valuable insight into the latest batch of COVID-19 vaccines approved by the FDA. Weintraub explained that these vaccines target a different variant of the virus, which is no longer the dominant one. The guidance for those eligible to receive the vaccine has also been deliberated, with a focus on the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with underlying health conditions. Weintraub emphasized the necessity of regular updates for the COVID vaccine, particularly for those with severe immunocompromised conditions.
Furthermore, a third COVID vaccine from Novavax is primed for distribution. This particular vaccine distinguishes itself from the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines as it is a protein-based vaccine, which requires a longer production time. However, it is equally effective as the mRNA vaccines. Weintraub also addressed concerns regarding the upcoming colder months, highlighting the potential for hospitals to be overwhelmed if flu and other respiratory viruses circulate alongside COVID-19.
In other news, the devastating earthquake in Morocco has resulted in the loss of at least 2,800 lives, with ongoing rescue efforts in place to locate survivors and remains. Search teams from Morocco and international aid organizations are collaborating, seeking to coordinate efforts to avoid duplication in aid provisions.
In Pennsylvania, the search for escaped convicted murderer Danelo Cavalcante is ongoing. Security footage captured his escape from a facility, and there have been reported sightings of him as he evades capture. The reward for information leading to his capture has been increased to $25,000.
The podcast also touched upon the military’s ongoing efforts to recover remains from a glacier in Alaska, decades after a 1952 plane crash. USA Today Pentagon Correspondent Tom Vanden Brook shed light on the challenging terrain and harsh conditions that have made the search and recovery mission complex. The military’s commitment to leaving no soldier behind is being put to the test as they work to identify and bring back the remains of those who perished in the crash.
Lastly, the U.S. has set a record for natural disasters and climate catastrophes in 2023, with 23 weather and climate disasters, each causing at least a billion dollars in damage. This surpasses the previous record set in 2020.
As always, the “5 Things” podcast delivers valuable insights into the latest news and developments, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the most critical issues of the day. We look forward to continuing to bring you the latest updates, so be sure to subscribe and leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. For any comments or feedback, you can email us at [email protected]. Thank you for tuning in, and we will be back tomorrow with more of “5 Things” from USA Today.
