January 5, 2022 – Coronavirus Cases Surge, First Case of “Flurona,” How Omicron Should Affect Our Behavior

In our continuing series looking at the latest medical research and news on COVID-19, Larry Mantle speaks with infectious diseases doctor and professor of medicine at UCSF Dr. Monica Gandhi.  Topics today include:  The next few weeks are “absolutely critical” as coronavirus cases explode in California.  “Unprecedented surge” in COVID-19 cases among L.A. police, firefighters.  L.A.’s first case of flurona discovered at Getty Center COVID-19 testing site.  Omicron appears to be milder -- how should that affect our behavior?  Free at-home COVID-19 tests are available in L.A. County but supplies are limited.  L.A. healthcare system hit with widening staffing shortages as workers get coronavirus.  The C.D.C. resists pushback and says a test to get out of COVID isolation isn’t needed.  White House embraces a manage-not-contain Omicron plan.  Fourth Pfizer dose spurs a sharp jump in antibodies, according to early data from Israel.  How safe are indoor gyms during the Omicron surge?  Study finds developmental lag in babies born during the pandemic.  This program is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.