Still Here: A Podcast From The Sick Times

As one of the last newsrooms still reporting on the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we get a lot of questions about how we track the SARS-CoV-2 virus, from whether or not to trust CDC data to how wastewater data monitoring works.To answer those questions and assist in finding and interpreting data on COVID-19 and other pathogens, The Sick Times hosted a webinar on April 28, 2026. This episode is an abridged version of that webinar.Still Here co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets were joined by Caitlin Rivers, an infectious disease epidemiologist who directs the Center for Outbreak Response Innovation at Johns Hopkins and runs the popular newsletter Force of Infection; and Tea Burns, a disabled trans nurse and first aid instructor with Action Readiness Collective of NYC (ARC-NYC). Subscribe to Still Here wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review telling us what you think of this episode.Links Mentioned:Full webinar video on YoutubeCOVID-19 spreads year round. Here's how to track it.

Why is Long COVID so underreported worldwide?Hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets speak with health journalist Jamie Ducharme about why Long COVID is dramatically underreported globally, and hear from South African advocate Mlindeni Gabela about fighting for diagnosis and breaking stigma in his community.Subscribe to Still Here wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review telling us what you think of this episode.

What can love look like when you’re disabled — and how do you write about grief when the crisis is still ongoing? In this episode of Still Here, hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets sit down with poet, author, and disability justice organizer Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarsinha to discuss their new poetry collection, The Way Disabled People Love Each Other.Leah shares how the book came to be, what it means to document pandemic grief in a pandemic that never ended, and the beauty, pain, and joy of disabled love. Subscribe to Still Here wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review telling us what you think of this episode.

In this episode of Still Here, hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis talk about the latest updates from the US Department of Health and Human Services and their efforts on Long COVID, as well as the criticisms they face from members of the community.Subscribe to Still Here wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review, telling us what you think of this episode.

Long COVID Awareness Day is gaining official recognition around the world, driven by a growing network of people with Long COVID and their allies. In our season two premiere of Still Here, hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis talk to Nicholas Rodelo of Clean Air Los Angeles about how he and his fellow organizers secured a City Council resolution recognizing Long COVID Awareness Day, and how they hope to leverage that into further action.Subscribe to Still Here wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a review, telling us what you think of this episode.

In this episode of Still Here, the finale of our season 1 ends the way it started, with a recap of the latest RECOVER-TLC workshop.The transcript for this episode can be ⁠⁠⁠⁠found on our website⁠⁠⁠⁠, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) ⁠⁠Intro⁠⁠(00:01:30) ⁠⁠Recap of 2025 RECOVER-TLC workshop(00:28:00) ⁠Outro⁠-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Live blog: RECOVER-TLC workshop on new Long COVID clinical trialsRECOVER-TLC announces new Long COVID clinical trials, receives mixed reactions from patient communityLive blog: Following the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID kickoff eventWhy are there almost no clinical trials for kids with Long COVID?Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this 2-way episode of Still Here: Co-host Betsy Ladyzhets interviews Caitlin Rivers, an epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health and author of the popular newsletter, Force of Infection, as well as the book Crisis Averted: The Hidden Science of Fighting Outbreaks. Rivers discussed which data sources she relies on for her trend updates, interpreting data for day-to-day decisions, questions she still has about COVID-19 patterns, how the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s data pages could better acknowledge Long COVID, ongoing bird flu concerns, and more.The transcript of this Q&A is available ⁠⁠⁠on The Sick Times' website⁠⁠⁠. -Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Q&A: Caitlin RiversAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: ⁠⁠Which Side Are You On?⁠⁠ (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this 2-way episode of Still Here: In spring 2025, Salvatore and Stephanie Mattera launched the new site Help for Long COVID, inspired by Salvatore’s challenges finding healthcare after he developed the disease. Salvatore talks with podcast co-host Betsy Ladyzhets about how the project — which he describes as a community Wikipedia-type database — came about, feedback they’ve received so far, his advice for people with Long COVID seeking healthcare, and more.The transcript of this Q&A is available ⁠⁠on The Sick Times' website⁠⁠. -Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Help for Long COVIDThe Sick Times: Priced out: Some Long COVID and ME specialists charge high prices for concierge careAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: ⁠Which Side Are You On?⁠ (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: A two-way between Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets comparing and contrasting Long COVID and ME clinical trial designs for drugs targeting immune dysregulation and viral persistence.The transcript for this episode can be ⁠⁠⁠found on our website⁠⁠⁠, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) ⁠Intro⁠(00:01:36) ⁠Recap of 2nd Keystone Symposia on Long COVID⁠(00:20:33) Research(00:22:48) Outro-Mentioned in this episode:The Sick Times: “The field is coming of age”: Long COVID researchers gather in Santa Fe to foster collaborationThe Sick Times: “A morale boost”: Looking ahead to the 2025 Keystone Symposia Long COVID conference with Hannah DavisThe Sick Times: No “easy home runs”: Early Long COVID trials of Paxlovid and monoclonal antibodies failed, but the treatments still have potentialThe Sick Times: Three clinical trials for Long COVID are testing JAK inhibitors to treat immune dysregulationThe Sick Times: Research updates, August 19The Sick Times: Covid-19 reinfections are further disabling people with Long CovidAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Youtube: Keystone Symposia 2025 closing remarks

In this episode of Still Here: A two-way between Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets comparing and contrasting Long COVID and ME clinical trial designs for drugs targeting immune dysregulation and viral persistence.The transcript for this episode can be ⁠⁠⁠found on our website⁠⁠⁠, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:05) 2-way: Long COVID clinical trial design for JAK inhibitors, drugs targeting viral persistence(00:28:37) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Three clinical trials for Long COVID are testing JAK inhibitors to treat immune dysregulationThe Sick Times: No “easy home runs”: Early Long COVID trials of Paxlovid and monoclonal antibodies failed, but the treatments still have potentialThe Sick Times: Research updates, July 8The Sick Times: Invivyd Chairman Marc Elia: The bureaucracy is killing people with Long COVIDStill Here: February 25: Links and transcriptAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: A two-way between Felicity Nelson and Betsy Ladyzhets comparing and contrasting the BC 007 and rapamycin Long COVID and ME clinical trial designs.The transcript for this episode can be ⁠⁠found on our website⁠⁠, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:15) 2-way: Long COVID clinical trial design, BC 007 and rapamycin (00:27:47) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Clinical trials are testing cancer drug rapamycin for Long COVID and METhe Sick Times: Berlin Cures’ failed Long COVID clinical trial yields lessons on study designResearch Square: Simmaron preprint on low-dose rapamycin clinical trialmedRxiv: Erlangan preprint on BC 007 clinical trialThe Sick Times: How volunteering to be a lab rat paid offAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: The Sick Times' team recaps the Patient-Led Research Fund summer 2025 webinar. Plus, an update about the National Institutes of Health's RECOVER-Treating Long COVID initiative. The transcript for this episode can be ⁠found on our website⁠, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:25) Recapping the PLRF summer '25 webinar(00:19:17) Research: RECOVER-TLC announces hybrid workshop(00:21:41) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the Patient-Led Research Fund summer 2025 webinarThe Sick Times: Lisa McCorkell reflects on five years of Long COVID research, and leaving PLRCThe Sick Times: Live blog: Following the Spring 2025 PolyBio Symposium on Long COVID and related diseasesThe SIck Times: This surgery fuses people’s skulls to their spines to treat a condition overlapping with myalgic encephalomyelitisPatient-Led Research ScorecardsThe Sick Times: Research updates, July 15The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID kickoff eventAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Contributing writer Simon Spichak discusses what experts say are Canada's "contradictory" and "concerning" latest guidelines for Long COVID, the CAN-PCC.Plus, in research, we talk about a new study group to test the monoclonal antibody Pemgarda for Long COVID and post-vaccine syndrome, as well as a new study from Taiwan that found 14% of children developed Long COVID after being infected with SARS-CoV-2.And we share updates on our summer fundraiser, too. The transcript for this episode can be found on our website, or jump to a specific part of the podcast below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:55) Top story: Behind the new "concerning", "contradictory" Canadian guidelines on Long COVID (00:19:38) Research(00:23:53) Updates on our summer fundraiser(00:26:44) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Experts call new Canadian Long COVID guidelines “contradictory” and “deeply concerning”Canadian Guidelines for Post-COVID-19 Condition (CAN-PCC)The Sick Times: Research updates, July 8The Sick Times: Frustrations, Denials, Long Drives: Immunocompromised People Can’t Access a Lifesaving COVID-19 DrugThe Sick Times: Invivyd Chairman Marc Elia: The bureaucracy is killing people with Long COVIDThe Sick Times: Summer fundraiser: Help keep our essential work going into 2026Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Contributing writer Britta Shoot discusses the patchwork of care for people with complex chronic illnesses, like myalgic encephalomyelitis, and how insurance providers create a lose-lose situation for patients and healthcare providers.Plus, in research, we're looking at a study published in Nature Communications about a new antiviral drug prototype that prevented Long COVID in mice and could also help treat the disease. And we share a little more about our summer fundraiser, including potential donation perks!The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:32) Why ME, Long COVID specialists charge high prices for concierge care(00:12:38) Research: Antiviral drug prototype that prevented Long COVID in mice(00:14:20) Summer 2025 fundraiser — help us keep our work going!(00:16:38) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Priced out: Some Long COVID and ME specialists charge high prices for concierge careThe Sick Times x Long COVID Justice: Long COVID EssentialsHelp for Long COVIDThe Sick Times: Research updates, July 1The Sick Times: Summer fundraiser: Help keep our essential work going into 2026Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this 2-way episode of Still Here: Paul Hennessy, a COVID-19 safety advocate based in the Los Angeles area and the Activism Director for Mask Together America, shares more about getting involved in local COVID-19 organizing, a LA budget proposal that reallocated COVID-19 funds meant for cleaner air to other infrastructure upgrades, and considerations for demonstrations centering Long COVID. The transcript of this Q&A is available ⁠on The Sick Times' website⁠. (Photo pictured courtesy of Elle Siebert.)-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Los Angeles’ $13M COVID-19 relief funds could go to building upgrades, not Long COVID careLos Angeles County Public Health: Public Health Virtual Town Hall on Long COVID Clean Air LA The WaysideThe Sick Times: Summer fundraiser: Help keep our essential work going into 2026Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Disabled writer and photographer Megan E. Doherty talks about her recent op-ed covering Illinois advocates' work on legislation that would ban mask bans in Illinois. And writer and artist Kelsey Simpkins discusses a gallery exhibit that opened last month in Colorado showcasing the work of artists with Long COVID. Plus, in research, we're looking at the rapid responses to a op-ed in The BMJ (British Medical Journal) that spread false claims about ME, and we'll also give a short update on RECOVER-TLC.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:14) Working to ban mask bans in Illinois(00:11:25) Colorado art exhibit uplifting artists with Long COVID(00:22:52) Research: Rapid responses to false claims about ME/CFS in a BMJ op-ed; update on RECOVER-TLC(00:25:46) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Podcast feedback surveyThe Sick Times: Illinois could become the first state in the country to ban mask bans. Here’s how we created the bill to do it.The Sick Times: Colorado art exhibition showcases creative expressions of Long COVID, advocates for research and treatmentThe Sick Times: Research updates, May 27RECOVER-TLC Intervention Information Request formAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Reporter Laura Weiss covers the slew of COVID-19 vaccine policy changes that have occurred since Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy assumed office. Plus, in research, we're looking at a study published in Pediatric Research that found pregnant people who were infected with SARS-CoV-2 during their first trimester were more likely to have smaller newborns. The transcript for this episode is available on The Sick Times' website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:29) COVID-19 vaccine policy changes(00:17:51) Research: Impact of SARS-Cov-2 exposure in first trimester on childbirth(00:20:38) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: The federal government is restricting COVID-19 vaccine access. Here’s what that means for the ongoing pandemic and people with Long COVID.Wall Street Journal: RFK Jr.: HHS Moves to Restore Public Trust in Vaccines (archive.ph link, free to access)Your Local EpidemiologistVaccine Integrity ProjectYour Local Epidemiologist: Four ways to anticipate next week's ACIPThe Sick Times: Research updates, June 17The Sick Times: Research updates, June 3Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: The Sick Times' team recaps the Spring 2025 PolyBio Research Symposium on Long COVID. And disabled journalist Lygia Navarro talks about the language we use for Long COVID, rounding up reader responses to a survey about terms used to describe aspects of the Long COVID experience.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:07) Recapping the Spring 2025 PolyBio Research Foundation Symposium on Long COVID(00:14:55) A Long COVID language revolution(00:28:42) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the Spring 2025 PolyBio Symposium on Long COVID and related diseasesPolyBio Research Foundation Youtube: PolyBio Spring 2025 SymposiumThe Sick Times: Live blog: Following the Fall 2024 PolyBio Symposium on Long COVID researchThe Sick Times: I want a Long COVID language revolution — not language imposed onto my sick, disabled bodyAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Journalist Kate Fishman talks about how game designers have used their medium to showcase experiences of Long COVID, highlight COVID risk, and offer an opportunity for people to think more deeply about ableism. And science and medicine journalist Felicity Nelson shares her experience participating in a Long COVID clinical trial (for low-dose naltrexone). Also in this episode: A small preprint published in Research Square looking at post-vaccine syndrome.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:45) Games providing a lens into the Long COVID experience(00:14:40) Becoming a Long COVID clinical trial participant(00:25:04) Research(00:26:30) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: “Long COVID Mode”: Seeing the crisis through gamesThe Long COVID GameSierra Club: Online Games Can Deepen Our Attention to EcologySeek by iNaturalistIntrapology by Zoyander StreetThe Sick Times: How volunteering to become a lab rat paid offThe Sick Times: Research updates, May 6Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In this episode of Still Here: Betsy Ladyzhets and Heather Hogan recap two April 24 arts events focused on creating space for artists with Long COVID to share their work safely and provide a container for the spectrum of emotions they're feeling. And freelance writer Anna Wenner talks about the importance of self-advocacy after it took two ER trips for doctors to recognize she had a pulmonary embolism caused by a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Also in this episode: Two studies looking at the global impact of Long COVID on healthcare workers.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:10) Two Long COVID-focused performances show power of art for reflection, solidarity(00:17:16) Self-advocacy after COVID-19 triggered a pulmonary embolism(00:26:07) Research: Two studies looking at Long COVID prevalence among healthcare workers(00:28:41) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Two Long COVID-focused performances show the power of art for reflection and solidarityThe Sick Times: “Marching from home”: New rock musical embodies the challenges and resistance of people with energy-limiting diseasesThe Sick Times: Missives from the dismissed: Still COVIDing without communityThe Sick Times: Instead of supporting people with Long COVID, our government funds a genocideHEPA collective (behind Wake Up and Smell the COVID) InstagramSign up for the mailing list for AIR CHANGE PER HOUR updatesThe Sick Times: COVID-19 triggered a life-threatening pulmonary embolism that led to long-term lung damage. It took two ER trips before doctors believed me.The Sick Times: Research updates, April 29Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

In August, leading Long COVID researchers will gather in Santa Fe, New Mexico for a major conference on Long COVID and other post-acute infection syndromes. (Find more information about the meeting, including deadlines for scholarships and short talks, on the Keystone Symposia website.)The meeting, organized by Long COVID experts and hosted by the nonprofit Keystone Symposia, follows a similar conference in 2023 at which scientists presented novel, exciting studies.Managing editor Betsy Ladyzhets caught up with Hannah Davis, one of the meeting’s co-organizers and co-lead of the Patient-Led Research Collaborative, to look ahead at the conference. Davis discussed what it’s like to plan a major research meeting, how this conference will be different from the prior iteration in 2023, what she’s looking forward to, and more.The transcript of this Q&A is available on The Sick Times' website.

In this episode of Still Here: Science journalist Colleen de Bellefonds discusses a spinal surgery that can help reduce symptoms for some people who have a rare complication of myalgic encephalomyelitis — and, increasingly, Long COVID. And writer and COVID resource archivist Nadica Zimmerman shares experiences from people still practicing COVID safety in the midst of a lack of community support. Also in this episode: A preprint of a study in which researchers from University of California, San Francisco, and the National Institutes of Health found that COVID-19 may increase the long-term risk of cancer.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) ⁠Intro⁠(00:02:15) This surgery fuses people's skulls to their spines to treat a condition overlapping with myalgic encephalomyelitis(00:12:45) Missives from the dismissed: Still COVIDing without community(00:25:59) ⁠Research: UCSF preprint about COVID-19 and cancer risk(00:28:34) ⁠Outro⁠-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: This surgery fuses people's skulls to their spines to treat a condition overlapping with myalgic encephalomyelitisThe Sick Times: Missives from the dismissed: Still COVIDing without communityThe Sick Times: Research updates, April 22Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) 

The Trump administration's order to eliminate $11 billion in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grants has already impacted some state health departments' work monitoring and researching Long COVID — even with those cuts in limbo.And in her collection "Days of Grace and Silence: A Chronicle of COVID's Long Haul," Ann E. Wallace chronicles her and her daughters' ongoing journey through Long COVID through poetry.In this episode of Still Here: How $11 billion CDC cuts are impacting state health departments' efforts to monitor and research Long COVID. Also, Jersey City poet emeritus Ann E. Wallace reads three poems about living with the virus.Also in this episode: Three studies showing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on children. And the latest COVID-19 trends.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:47) COVID-19 trends(00:05:27) CDC cuts impact state Long COVID response(00:16:30) Poetry about living with Long COVID as a family(00:24:20) Research: Three studies on COVID-19's impact on children(00:27:16) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, April 15CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: $11 billion CDC funding cuts may decimate Long COVID response in several statesThe Sick Times: UPDATE: RECOVER Long COVID pathobiology grants restoredThe Sick Times: A timely book of poetry chronicles a mother — and her daughters’ — experienceThe Sick Times: Research updates, April 15Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

While tilt table testing is considered the "gold standard" for POTS diagnoses, it can prove risky for many with Long COVID. And on average, the Severe ME Advocacy group sees at least one crisis case from a person with Severe ME facing potentially fatal medical neglect or traumatic medical abuse. In this episode of Still Here: Author and reporter Justine Barron talks about the nuance of tilt table testing. Plus, advocate and writer Sam Pearce on her appeal to ME and LC organizations to create an international task force centered on Severe ME and Long COVID crisis cases. Also in this episode: The results of a highly-anticipated Yale study on Paxlovid. And the latest COVID-19 trends.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:25) COVID-19 trends(00:06:14) Nuances of tilt table testing(00:17:47) Severe Long COVID/ME crisis case task force urgently needed(00:26:34) Research: Yale Paxlovid study (and its silver lining)(00:28:41) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Still Here: Exit interview with Patient-Led Research Collaborative co-founder Lisa McCorkellSubmit a voice memo reflecting on over 5 years of COVID-19 and Long COVIDThe Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, April 8CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: “It’s like torture”: The tilt table test could be risky for many people with Long COVIDThe Sick Times: An international emergency task force is urgently needed for Severe Long COVID and ME crisis casesThe Sick Times: Research updates, April 8Stanford Medicine: Stanford Medicine trial: 15-day Paxlovid regimen safe but adds no clear long-COVID benefitThe Sick Times: For people with severe Long COVID, medical care is out of reachAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Lisa McCorkell, one of the founders of the Patient-Led Research Collaborative (or PLRC), recently stepped down after five years co-leading the organization. She spoke with Still Here co-host Betsy Ladyzhets about formative Long COVID studies, advocating for federal funding, developing new patient-led initiatives, and more.The full transcript of this interview is available on The Sick Times' website.PLRC started in spring 2020, when a group of people with Long COVID connected in an early support group and used their research experience to begin studying the disease. They published some of the first scientific papers about Long COVID, work that was instrumental in defining the disease and garnering attention from other scientists, policymakers, journalists, and the world at large.

Last week, a federal order to rescind COVID-related funding meant over 45 grants for Long COVID pathobiology studies through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) RECOVER initiative were canceled. But after reporting from The Sick Times and Chemical & Engineering News, advocates sprung into action, and days after the initial cancellation, the grants were reinstated.And bird flu outbreaks this past year have raised concern about the potential for the pathogen turning into another pandemic. In this episode of Still Here: Co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis recap their reporting about NIH grants that were revoked and reinstated within a matter of days. Plus, health and science freelance reporter Melody Schreiber provides an update on the status of bird flu and its chronic disease risks after this past year's outbreaks.Also in this episode: A new RECOVER preprint looking at reinfections and Long COVID in children and adolescents. And the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:59) COVID-19 trends(00:06:10) Long COVID pathobiology research grants revoked and restored(00:16:00) What we know about the U.S. bird flu outbreak(00:23:42) Research: RECOVER preprint about Long COVID and reinfections in children, adolescents(00:25:15) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Submit a voice memo reflecting on over 5 years of COVID-19 and Long COVIDThe Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, April 1CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: UPDATE: RECOVER Long COVID pathobiology grants restoredThe Sick Times: RECOVER grants for Long COVID pathobiology research are among those cut under new NIH directiveChemical & Engineering News: NIH cancels RECOVER grants for long COVID projectsLong COVID Campaign: Call Congress tool / Email Congress toolThe Sick Times: What we know about the U.S. bird flu outbreak and its chronic disease riskThe Sick Times: Research updates, April 1The Sick Times: COVID-19 reinfections are further disabling people with Long COVIDAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

The Office of Long COVID Research and Practice is the latest on the Trump administration's chopping block. It's in line with steps taken to target and erase federal responses to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and Long COVID crisis. And finding a friend with Long COVID proves a transformative gift for a fellow performer living with Long COVID. In this episode of Still Here: Co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis recap their reporting about the Office of Long COVID's closure. Plus, hear storyteller, performer, and comedian Christina Igaraividez read part of her essay for the Color of Long COVID series, about a transformative friendship that allowed her to just be. Also, a new study in the American Journal of Medicine found people living with Long COVID and people living with myalgic encephalomyelitis have similarly impaired vascular function and the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:11) COVID-19 trends(00:05:25) Trump administration set to abolish Office of Long COVID(00:20:45) A transformative friendship between two people with Long COVID(00:25:13) Research: New study shows people with Long COVID, people with ME have similarly impaired vascular function(00:27:49) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Submit a voice memo reflecting on over 5 years of COVID-19 and Long COVIDThe Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, March 25CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: Trump administration set to abolish the Office of Long COVID Research and PracticeQ&A: Dr. Ian Simon on his plans for the HHS Office of Long Covid Research and Practice Trump commands HHS to terminate advisory committee on Long COVIDNow offline: Government resources about Long COVID as a disabilityBreaking: Vital Long COVID data taken down following Trump orderLong COVID data are being erased, againHalf a decade of Long COVIDMuckRock: The ‘Uncounted:’ People of color are dying at much higher rates than what COVID data suggestsLong COVID Campaign: Call Congress tool / Email Congress toolThe Sick Times: UPDATE: RECOVER Long COVID pathobiology grants restoredThe Sick Times: A serendipitous friendship taught me my greatest lesson in living with Long COVID: How to just beThe Sick Times: Research updates, March 25Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Long COVID is an international public health crisis, and while its effects are felt around the world, access to research and understanding about the virus is not equal. And coming to accept one's disabled identity when living with Long COVID can bring up an array of emotions.In this episode of Still Here: Freelance journalist Rishabh Jain talks with co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis about his latest reporting on how Long COVID is an economic catastrophe for marginalized workers in India. And The Sick Times' engagement editor Heather Hogan shares how a dysautonomic battle with a racist man helped her claim her Long COVID identity.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:30) COVID-19 trends(00:05:22) Landscape of Long COVID in India(00:14:28) Claiming Long COVID identity(00:24:18) Research: Recapping Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections(00:28:06) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):Submit a voice memo reflecting on over 5 years of COVID-19 and Long COVIDThe Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, March 18CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: “There is no money to survive”: Long COVID pushes India’s marginalized workers deeper into povertyThe Sick Times: Live blog: International demonstrations ignite for Long COVID Awareness DayThe Sick Times: The sick soft butch who did: How confronting a racist in my neighborhood helped me claim my Long COVID identityAutostraddle: The Soft Butch That Couldn’t (Or: I Got COVID-19 in March 2020 and Never Got Better)The Sick Times: Research updates, March 18The Sick Times: HIV may increase the risk of Long Covid. Why aren’t major advocacy groups addressing it?Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

On March 11, 2020, the U.S. government declared COVID-19 a national public health emergency. Five years later, millions of people have developed Long COVID — both before the emergency was declared, like co-host Miles Griffis, and many more after. In this episode of Still Here: Griffis reflects on five years of having Long COVID and discusses the impact people with Long COVID have had on painting a fuller picture of the deleterious, harmful impacts of SARS-CoV-2.Also in this episode: A BMC Medicine study examining long-term molecular changes in people who developed Long COVID in the first five months of the COVID-19 pandemic, potential retinal biomarkers for Long COVID, and the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:47) COVID-19 trends(00:09:58) Half a decade of Long COVID(00:21:45) Research: Molecular changes in people with Long COVID; a potential retinal biomarker for Long COVID(00:24:49) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: Event announcement: Commemorating Long COVID Awareness DayThe Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, March 11CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardCNN: Federal government no longer accepting orders for free COVID-19 testsThe Sick Times: Half a decade of Long COVIDThe Sick Times: Research updates, March 11The Sick Times: Finding an accepted Long COVID biomarker will be complicated. This blood test could give us answers.Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

While the federal government has historically supported workers with disabilities, many workers with Long COVID worry accommodations such as working remotely are now threatened under the Trump administration. Plus, see The Sick Times live virtually or in New York City on March 18 to commemorate Long COVID Awareness Day and month. In this episode of Still Here: Co-host Betsy Ladyzhets shares the experiences of federal government workers living with Long COVID. And more information about The Sick Times' first in-person (and virtual) event.Also in this episode: A Radiology study looking at the impact of Long COVID on children's lungs, a clinical trial testing a drug used for Alzheimer's, and the latest COVID-19 trends.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:40) COVID-19 forecast(00:07:40) Federal workers with Long COVID in the Trump administration(00:18:41) The Sick Times commemorates Long COVID Awareness Day/Month(00:22:09) Research: Lung abnormalities in children with Long COVID; clinical trial testing a drug used to treat Parkinson's(00:24:31) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance):The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, March 4CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: Federal workers with Long COVID face firings, loss of accommodations, and more challenges under TrumpCOVID is a Labor Issue zineThe Sick Times: Event announcement: Commemorating Long COVID Awareness DayThe Sick Times: Research updates, March 4The Sick Times: Why are there almost no clinical trials for kids with Long COVID?Additional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Before a federal advisory committee on Long COVID even had its first meeting, Trump ordered it shut down. Plus, the isolation of being shut down when advocating for COVID-19 preventative measures and Long COVID awareness in leftist spaces.In this episode of Still Here: Co-host Miles Griffis shares his reporting on Trump's executive order shutting down the Department of Health and Human Services' advisory committee onLong COVID. And Sam Williams reads the start of his essay for our Color of Long COVID series about being a "Long COVID unicorn" advocating for COVID-19 and Long COVID awareness in the U.K.'s Green Party. Also in this episode: A new preprint looking at the post-vaccine syndrome after COVID-19 vaccines and the latest COVID-19 trends.The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:25) COVID-19 trends(00:07:35) Trump orders federal advisory committee on Long COVID shut down(00:16:48) Being a "Long COVID unicorn"(00:19:35) Research: Preprint on post-vaccine syndrome(00:22:25) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, February 25 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: Breaking: Vital Long COVID data taken down following Trump order The Sick Times: How America lost control of the bird flu, setting the stage for another pandemic The Sick Times: Trump commands HHS to terminate advisory committee on Long COVID Death Panel The Sick Times: The Long COVID unicorn: How I lost faith in my leftist political party The Sick Times: Research updates, February 25Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode of Still Here: Invivyd chairman Marc Elia speaks with co-host Miles Griffis about his recent op-ed for The Sick Times about how bureaucracy is killing people with Long COVID and the role of monoclonal antibodies in the ongoing pandemic. And freelance health and science reporter Annika Hom speaks with co-host Betsy Ladyzhets about efforts to establish a national clinical guideline for treating Long COVID in Mexico.Also in this episode: A phase III Long COVID clinical trial testing a combination of the HIV drug Selzentry (Maraviroc) and the statin Lipitor (Atorvastatin), and the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this podcast is⁠⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:37) COVID-19 trends(00:05:12) Invivyd chairman Marc Elia on monoclonal antibodies and more(00:18:36) Long COVID clinical guideline in Mexico (00:26:55) Research: Phase III Long COVID clinical trial with a HIV drug-statin combination(00:28:46) OutroYou can also find our podcast on⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠, ⁠⁠and iHeartRadio⁠⁠.Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, February 18CDC wastewater dashboardBiobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboardThe Sick Times: Invivyd Chairman Marc Elia: The bureaucracy is killing people with Long COVIDThe Sick Times: Frustrations, denials, long drives: Immunocompromised people can’t access a lifesaving COVID-19 drugThe Sick Times: Without clear clinical guidelines in México, people with Long COVID face gaslighting and erasureThe Sick Times: Research updates, February 18Additional audio used in this episode (in order of appearance):Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: How can reframing pandemics as inevitable change the way we prepare for them? And looking at Long COVID resources for getting accommodations.Writer-owned science publication Sequencer Magazine co-founder and writer Max Levy talks with co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets, along with producer James Salanga, about ways we might be able to prepare for another pandemic as bird flu continues to spread. Plus, Betsy talks about Long COVID resources removed from a Department of Labor site, along with alternatives. Also in this episode: an update on the sterilizing nasal vaccine and the latest COVID-19 trends. (You can read more about Sequencer Mag, which co-published Max’s story, via their website.)The transcript for this podcast is⁠ available on The Sick Times’ website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below:(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:28) COVID-19 trends(00:08:04) Interview with Max Levy on pandemic preparedness(00:20:50) Long COVID resources taken off U.S. government site(00:26:45) Research: Update on nasal sterilizing COVID-19 vaccine(00:28:41) OutroYou can also find our podcast on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Pocket Casts⁠, ⁠Amazon Music⁠, ⁠and iHeartRadio⁠.Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, February 11 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard Sequencer Magazine The Sick Times: We won’t avoid the next pandemic. But we can still prepare. The Sick Times: Now offline: Government resources about Long COVID as a disability Wayback Machine: Archived copy of AskJAN’s Long COVID resources landing page The Sick Times: We talked to a veteran lawyer about applying for disability insurance with Long COVID and ME The Sick Times: Even as a former executive assistant, managing care for Long COVID is a full-time job COVID-19 Longhauler Advocacy Project: Comprehensive Guide to LC New Disabled South The Sick Times: Research updates, February 11  The Sick Times: Research updates, August 6Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra:⁠Which Side Are You On?⁠ (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay:⁠ Thunder and the beginning of rainfall⁠

In this episode: How has the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic impacted friendships? Sociologist October Krausch looked at over 2,500 survey responses to learn more. They speak with co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis, along with producer James Salanga, about their findings and what pandemic-aware friendship looks like now. Also in this episode: an update on how RECOVER has been impacted by the Trump administration, a potential Long COVID biomarker in kids, and the latest COVID-19 trends.The transcript for this podcast isavailable on The Sick Times’ website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:18) COVID-19 trends(00:06:12)Top story: How is the pandemic impacting friendships?(00:22:03)Research: Potential Long COVID biomarker in kids; RECOVER-TLC under Trump update(00:28:13) OutroYou can also find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times:National COVID-19 trends, February 4 The Sick Times:Some U.S. COVID-19 data are down amid “pause” to federal health communications The Sick Times:RECOVER hasn’t been impacted by Trump freezes so far, sources say. But the program’s future is still uncertain. CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times:The “pandemic of abandonment”: Navigating friendships five years into COVID-19 COVID Meetups COVID Action Map The Sick Times:Research updates, February 4  Still Here (1/25/25):Potential blood-based Long COVID biomarker; reflections from a Palestinian with Long COVID The Sick Times:Finding an accepted Long COVID biomarker will be complicated. This blood test could give us answers. Still Here (11/22/24):Where are kids’ Long COVID clinical trials?Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra:Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay:Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Access to COVID-19 data during the federal health communications pause. And a breakdown about why the Affordable Care Act might be at risk, from a freelancer with Long COVID. In this episode of Still Here: Co-host Betsy Ladyzhets speaks with co-host Miles Griffis and producer James Salanga about her reporting on the U.S. COVID-19 data landscape. And freelancer Bobbi Dempsey shares why the ACA is so important, along with how to prepare for its potential targeting under the Trump administration.Also in this episode: another RECOVER survey with over 12,000 participants, a promising peptide development, and the latest COVID-19 trends. (Of note: Since the episode’s recording, the Household Pulse Survey — a key source of vital Long COVID data — was taken down following a Trump order on Jan. 31 about removing any references to “gender ideology” on the CDC website. You can read Betsy's reporting on The Sick Times' site.)The transcript for this episode ⁠⁠is available on The Sick Times' website⁠⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the episode and transcript below: Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, January 28 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: Wastewater surveillance for COVID-19 keeps evolving. Here's what you need to know. The Sick Times: Some U.S. COVID-19 data are down amid “pause” to federal health communications The Sick Times: RECOVER hasn’t been impacted by Trump freezes so far, sources say. But the program’s future is still uncertain.  The Sick Times: As someone with Long COVID, I’m terrified of what could happen to the Affordable Care Act USA.gov: Find your elected officials Healthcare.gov Healthcare.gov: Find local help The Sick Times: Research updates, January 28 Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: ⁠Which Side Are You On?⁠ (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: ⁠Thunder and the beginning of rainfall⁠

A blood-based biomarker for Long COVID could be on the horizon. And living with Long COVID as a Palestinian in the United States.In this episode of Still Here: Co-host Miles Griffis speaks with co-host Betsy Ladyzhets and producer James Salanga about their newest reporting on Long COVID biomarkers. Long COVID Justice’s BIPOC Communicators Fellow Jenna Laila Bitar reads a portion of their essay about seeing the U.S. funnel money toward genocide instead of supporting people with Long COVID. Also in this episode: funding for a preventative COVID-19 drug for immunocompromised people, a new preprint estimating the prevalence of Long COVID across continents, and the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this episode ⁠is available on The Sick Times' website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the episode and transcript below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:55) COVID-19 trends(00:07:15) A potential blood-based Long COVID biomarker(00:20:21) Being Palestinian with Long COVID in the U.S.(00:24:32) Research: Funding for a new COVID-19 drug for immunocompromised people; MedrXiV preprint about Long COVID prevalence(00:28:30) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, January 21 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard Science: Why the ‘Ferrari of viruses’ is surging through the Northern Hemisphere The Sick Times: Wastewater surveillance for COVID-19 keeps evolving. Here's what you need to know. The Sick Times: Finding an accepted Long COVID biomarker will be complicated. This blood test could give us answers.  NIH RECOVER: Routine lab tests are not a reliable way to diagnose Long COVID  Still Here: Overseas pharmacies for Long COVID symptom support (research section has BioQuest info) The Sick Times: Instead of supporting people with Long COVID, our government funds a genocide The Sick Times: Research updates, January 21 Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: Los Angeles-area COVID-19 mutual aid groups jumped to action to minimize the impact of wildfire smoke (and COVID!) as wildfires worsen air quality. Mask Bloc LA distributed over 43,000 masks in the first week of the wildfires. Freelance reporter and Long COVID patient advocate Sam Rhodehamel talks with producer James Salanga and co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets about the groups filling public health gaps to keep residents protected during the devastating wildfires. Also in this episode: another NIH RECOVER-Treating Long COVID update, more proof portable air filters help mitigate airborne disease, and the latest COVID-19 trends. The transcript for this episode is available on The Sick Times' website. You can jump to specific sections of the episode and transcript below: (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:21) COVID-19 trends(00:06:55) L.A. COVID-19 mutual aid groups fill public health gaps during wildfires(00:18:22) Research: Portable air filters' effectiveness reaffirmed, NIH RECOVER-TLC update(00:23:55) Outro-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, January 14 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: Wastewater surveillance for COVID-19 keeps evolving. Here's what you need to know. The Sick Times: COVID-19 advocates are distributing masks to protect Californians from wildfire smoke Support Mask Bloc LA Help Clean Air LA bring purifiers to LA residents  The Sick Times: Research updates, January 14  Still Here: Recapping the NIH RECOVER-TLC Kickoff The Sick Times: “A good step”: Long COVID advocates and researchers respond to the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID meeting NIH: Submit therapeutics and biologics NIH: Submit interest to join a working group NIH: Submit biomarkers for Long COVID NIH: Provide general feedback on the initiative  NIH: Recover-Treating Long COVID websiteAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: A new guide to navigating COVID boundaries, changing relationships due to Long COVID, and the ongoing organizing work around COVID and disability justice. Also, an end-of-the-year fundraiser update. Investigative journalist Violet Blue speaks with podcast producer James Salanga about The COVID Safety Handboook. Also, co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets recap the latest COVID-19 numbers, a norovirus and bird flu update, and a UC San Francisco case series looking at longer cases of Paxlovid. The transcript for this episode is available on The Sick Times’ website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:20) COVID-19 forecast(00:08:36) The COVID Safety Handbook(00:20:12) End-of-year fundraiser update(00:23:36) Research: UCSF Paxlovid case series(00:25:35) OutroStill Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly on Tuesdays.You can also find our Long COVID news and commentary podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, January 7 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard Gothamist: Norovirus, a gross stomach bug, appears to be hitting NYC. Good luck finding out where. Instagram: PPE for California The Sick Times: How America lost control of the bird flu, setting the stage for another pandemic The Sick Times: “Stand Together,” an excerpt from The Covid Safety Handbook COVID Safety Handbook  The Sick Times: End-of-year fundraiser results: Thank you for supporting The Sick Times! The Sick Times: Research updates, January 7  Stanford Medicine: Stanford Medicine trial: 15-day Paxlovid regimen safe but adds no clear long-COVID benefit Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode (the last of 2024!): With little support and no approved treatments, online drug markets are one way that people with Long COVID are seeking to improve their quality of life. This week, co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis talk with producer James Salanga to recap reporting from freelancer Hannah Buttle about this phenomenon and the current state of potential Long COVID treatments. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, an update on H5N1, and more funding for Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) research. The transcript for this podcast is ⁠available on The Sick Times' website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below. (00:00:00) Intro(00:02:33) COVID-19 trends(00:05:18) Top story — Overseas pharmacies for Long COVID symptom support(00:18:20) Research — More funding for NIH RECOVER-TLC and ME biomarker research(00:22:44) OutroDonate to our end-of-year fundraiser⁠⁠ and have your donation matched up to $1,000 — both one-time and monthly donations will be matched!Still Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): Still Here: Recapping the RECOVER-TLC kickoff; Low-dose naltrexone in clinical trials; Long COVID research under Trump The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, December 17 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: Wastewater surveillance for Covid-19 keeps evolving. Here’s what you need to know. U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing   The Sick Times: With no approved treatments and little support, people with Long COVID turn to online drug markets Chemical & Engineering News: R&D for long COVID is collapsing  World Health Organization: Substandard and falsified medical products University of Liverpool: Liverpool COVID-19 Drug Interactions   The Sick Times and Long COVID Justice: Long COVID Essentials series Long COVID Studies The Sick Times: Want to enroll in a Long Covid clinical trial? This new project helps track them. The Sick Times: Research updates, December 17 The Sick Times: NIH announces $147 million in additional Long COVID research funding, new budget details Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: What does it sound like to be alienated as an Jewish anti-Zionist living with ME/CFS during a mass-disabling pandemic? For Dan Fishback, it's rock music. The Sick Times' engagement editor Heather Hogan interviewed Dan about his production, which shows Saturday and Sunday at Joe's Pub at the Public Theater in New York City. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, and updates on two clinical trials.The transcript for this podcast is ⁠available on The Sick Times’ website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below.(00:00:00) ⁠Intro⁠(00:01:42) ⁠COVID-19 trends⁠(00:05:18) ⁠Top story: A rock music production about living with ME/CFS — Dan Fishback is Alive, Unwell, and Living in his Apartment(00:22:53) ⁠Research: Evusheld 2.0 clinical trial, CoRE clinical trial testing HIV drugs⁠(00:27:26) ⁠Outro⁠Donate to our ⁠end-of-year fundraiser⁠ and have your donation matched up to $1,000 — both one-time and monthly donations will be matched! 

Still Here is an abridged version of ⁠The Sick Times’ newsletter⁠, which publishes weekly on Tuesdays.You can also find our podcast on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠,⁠ Pocket Casts⁠,⁠ Amazon Music⁠,⁠ and iHeartRadio⁠.-This episode contains a promo swap with the podcast ⁠Public Health is Dead⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, December 10 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing   Dan Fishback is Alive, Unwell, and Living in His Apartment Dark Disabled Stories Split Britches The Sick Times: Research updates, December 10 The Sick Times: Still Here, October 18: Links and transcriptAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Dan Fishback: Marching from Home (personal demo) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: How could funding for and progress on Long COVID research change under the Trump administration?Co-host Betsy Ladyzhets talks with producer James Salanga about her reporting to map out the potential landscape. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, an anniversary zine and update about how our end-of-year fundraiser is going, a study examining SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in the skull, and more.The transcript for this podcast is available on The Sick Times’ website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:31) COVID-19 trends(00:05:37) Long COVID research under Trump(00:18:48) Fundraiser update, anniversary zine(00:22:11) Research: SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in skull, valacyclovir and celecoxib clinical trial(00:24:54) OutroDonate to our end-of-year fundraiser and have your donation matched up to $1,000 — both one-time and monthly donations will be matched! 

Still Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly on Tuesdays.You can also find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.-This episode contains a promo swap with the podcast Public Health is Dead.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, December 3 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard Susanne Rust post: H5N1 in CA  U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing   Instagram: PPE for California CVS: iHealth COVID-19/Flu A&B 3-in-1 Home Rapid Test Kit, 2 CT (not sponsored, just an example of the product mentioned) The Sick Times: “Don’t give up hope”: Long COVID advocates and researchers say crucial work will continue under Trump Wall Street Journal (op-ed): The High Cost of Disparaging Natural Immunity to Covid Mother Jones: Congress Has One Month to Save a Key Medicare Benefit The Sick Times: Support Long COVID journalism in our end-of-year fundraiser The Sick Times: Special edition zine: One year of The Sick Times Cell Host & Microbe: Persistence of spike protein at the skull-meninges-brain axis may contribute to the neurological sequelae of COVID-19 The Sick Times: Research updates, November 26Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: Where are the Long COVID clinical trials for kids?There are only two pediatric clinical trials testing drugs to treat Long COVID in kids — and only one of them is in the U.S. This week, reporter Simon Spichak speaks with podcast producer James Salanga about why there are so few of these pediatric clinical trials. Also in this episode: co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets share the latest COVID-19 numbers, disappointing results from the BC 007 clinical trial, and details about REVERSE-LC recruiting participants.The transcript for this podcast is available on The Sick Times' website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below. (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:41) COVID-19 trends(00:05:45) Top story — Lack of pediatric clinical trials for Long COVID(00:18:28) Research — BC 007 trial results, REVERSE-LC recruitment(00:23:18) Outro and creditsDonate to our end-of-year fundraiser⁠ and have your donation matched up to $1,000 — both one-time and monthly donations will be matched!Still Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠⁠⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.-This podcast contains a promo swap with the upcoming Public Health is Dead.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, November 19 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard CDC: Vaccination Trends | Respiratory Illnesses U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing    The Sick Times: Why are there almost no clinical trials for kids with Long COVID? The Daily Beast: Stanford Medicine Long COVID Study Blows Up Because of Unmasked Staff The Sick Times: Research updates, November 19 REVERSE-LC websiteAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

This week, we celebrate one year of The Sick Times! The Sick Times team discusses the newsroom's origin story, what the publication means to them, and what the next year (and hopefully years, plural) holds. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, and recapping the team's coverage of the Fall 2024 PolyBio Symposium on Long COVID Research.The transcript for this podcast is ⁠available on The Sick Times' website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below. (00:00:00) Intro⁠⁠(00:01:24) COVID-19 trends⁠(00:05:14) ⁠Research — Recapping Fall 2024 PolyBio Symposium on Long COVID Research(00:09:08) Top story — One year of The Sick Times⁠(00:28:52) Outro and credits⁠Want to give us a birthday gift?Donate to our end-of-year fundraiser⁠ and have your donation matched!Still Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠⁠⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, November 12 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard CDC: Serologic Evidence of Recent Infection with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5) Virus Among Dairy Workers Instagram: @ppeforcalifornia U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing   The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the Fall 2024 Polybio Symposium on Long COVID Research The Sick Times: Press release: The Sick Times announces one year of covering the Long COVID crisis The Sick Times: ‘They bungled it:’ NIH documents reveal how $1.6 billion Long Covid initiative has failed so far to meet its goals The Sick Times: Q&A: NIH Director Dr. Monica Bertagnolli The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 1 The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 2 The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 3  The Sick Times x Them: These are the drag artists and organizers fighting to make queer spaces more COVID safe The Sick Times: Introducing Long COVID Essentials, a new resource series Public Health is Dead Death PanelAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Party horn Pixabay: Happy Birthday To You - Bossa Nova style arrangement Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

In this episode: Disability visibility via SICK Pride in South Africa and The Sick Times' end-of-year fundraiser.Sam Pearce, a Cape Town-based writer living with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), and Mlindeni Gabela, the Long COVID Ambassador for ME and Long COVID Unite South Africa, share their experience organizing SICK Pride, an event creating visibility for their illnesses. Co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis talk with podcast producer James Salanga about The Sick Times' end of year fundraiser. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, and an $800,000 grant for a clinical trial of a repurposed drug that could help with immune or infection-related dysfunction in Long COVID.The transcript for this podcast is ⁠available on The Sick Times' website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below. (00:00:00) ⁠Intro⁠(00:01:16) ⁠COVID-19 trends⁠(00:03:58) ⁠⁠Top story — SICK Pride⁠⁠(00:12:15) ⁠Top story — End-of-year fundraiser⁠(00:18:12) ⁠Research — Rapamycin clinical trial(00:20:06) ⁠Outro and credits⁠Donate to our end-of-year fundraiser and have your donation matched up to $1,000 — both one-time and monthly donations will be matched!Still Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠⁠⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, November 5 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing    The Sick Times: We set out to make our 'invisible illness' visible in South Africa with SICK Pride The Sick Times: Support Long COVID journalism in our end-of-year fundraiser The Sick Times: Research updates, November 5 The Sick Times: Still Here, October 18 The Sick Times: New Long COVID and complex disease center at Mount Sinai set to be a leader in research, clinical care Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Mask blocs have been a crucial pillar of mutual aid in communities around the globe, as community members undertake the work of public health organizations to keep each other safe. This week, oral histories from mask bloc organizers are interspersed with some context from journalist and author Britta Shoot, who put together a three-part series collaging said oral histories. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, and the National Institute of Health officially seeks input on its RECOVER-Treating Long COVID initiative.The transcript for this podcast is available on The Sick Times' website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below. (00:00:00) Intro(00:01:31) COVID-19 trends(00:04:32) Research — RECOVER-TLC request for info(00:06:45) Top story — Mask bloc oral histories(00:21:19) Outro and creditsStill Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠⁠Sign up here.⁠⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: “A good step”: Long COVID advocates and researchers respond to the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID meeting The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, October 29 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard NIH: Submit ideas for therapeutics and biologics via the RECOVER-TLC Intervention Information Request Form NIH: Share interest to serve on a RECOVER-TLC working group NIH: Submit biomarkers for Long COVID NIH: Submit general feedback on RECOVER-TLC U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing    The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 1 The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 2 The Sick Times: A brief, oral history of mask blocs: Part 3  The Sick Times: “Perfect storm” of criminalization: Analyzing mask bans The Sick Times: Mask bans and proposed bans by state  COVID Action MapAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

This week, co-hosts Betsy Ladyzhets and Miles Griffis talk with podcast producer James Salanga about clinical trials looking at low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a potential drug for people living with Long COVID and ME. Also in this episode: the latest COVID-19 numbers, and a new survey of around 70,000 people in China looking at Long COVID, reinfections, and more.The transcript for this podcast is available on The Sick Times' website. You can jump to specific sections of the podcast and transcript below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:10) COVID-19 trends(00:03:22) Top story — Low-dose naltrexone clinical trials(00:17:40) Research — Long COVID facts and findings in thousands of Chinese survey participants(00:23:07) Outro and creditsStill Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. ⁠Sign up here.⁠ You can also find our podcast on ⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Pocket Casts⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Amazon Music⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠iHeartRadio⁠⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, October 22 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard Nature: Daily briefing: COVID protections eliminated a strain of flu CDC: Vaccination Trends | Respiratory Illnesses U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing The Sick Times: Clinical trials explore how Low-Dose Naltrexone could help people with Long COVID The Lancet: Regional Health — Western Pacific: Long COVID facts and findings: a large-scale online survey in 74,075 Chinese participants The Lancet: Regional Health — Western Pacific: Long Covid is a significant health crisis in China too Research Square: Long COVID and associated outcomes following COVID-19 reinfections: Insights from an International Patient-Led SurveyAdditional audio in this episode: Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

This week, co-host Betsy Ladyzhets recaps her reporting tour of the new Long COVID and complex disease center at Mount Sinai, with additional commentary from co-host Miles Griffis. Miles and Betsy also talk with podcast producer James Salanga about the latest COVID-19 numbers.  And in research, they share more information about a preprint based on an analysis of 23andMe’s database that suggests genetic associations with Long COVID and a study looking at the cardiac risks associated with COVID-19 infection. The transcript for this podcast is ⁠available on our website⁠. You can jump to specific sections of the transcript and podcast below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:20) COVID-19 trends(00:03:22) Top story — New Mount Sinai Long COVID center(00:16:48) Research — 23andMe genetic associations with LC preprint, study about increased cardiac risks after SARS-CoV-2 infection(00:19:40) Outro and creditsStill Here is an abridged version of The Sick Times’ newsletter, which publishes weekly. Sign up here. You can also find our podcast on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, ⁠Pocket Casts⁠, ⁠Amazon Music⁠, and ⁠iHeartRadio⁠.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, October 15CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reportsWastewaterSCAN dashboard U.S. free COVID tests: COVID-19 Testing The Sick Times: New Long COVID and complex disease center at Mount Sinai set to be a leader in research, clinical careHow to Start a Mask Bloc The Sick Times: Research updates, October 15Additional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall Joshua Roman: Immunity (version included in podcast was recorded live by Betsy) 

Atinuki “Tinu” Abayomi-Paul was “so funny … and so clever” and “wonderful at supporting disabled people in a beautiful and authentic way.” Several of those who loved and cared for Tinu reflect on her legacy and life in this episode of Still Here. Before the segment of the episode dedicated to honoring Tinu, co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets talk with podcast producer James Salanga about the latest COVID-19 numbers. And they share a brief hopeful update about beginning analysis that could help lead to repurposed drugs as treatment for Long COVID.  The transcript for this podcast is available on our website. You can jump to specific sections of the transcript and podcast below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:01:34) COVID-19 trends(00:03:23) Research — CURE ID begins survey analysis(00:07:38) Top story — Honoring Atinuki "Tinu" Abayomi-Paul(00:19:00) Outro and creditsYou can also find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, October 8 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: Research updates, October 8  CUREID: Long COVID survey The Sick Times: Long Covid surveys from a FDA/NIH initiative ask which drugs help alleviate symptoms The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID kickoff event The Sick Times: “A good step”: Long COVID advocates and researchers respond to the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID meeting  The Sick Times: Still Here, October 4: Links and transcript The Sick Times: Tinu Abayomi-Paul, writer, disability advocate, and person with Long COVID, dies at 52 Creaky Joints: Testing COVID-Positive: My Experience as a Black, Disabled, Immunocompromised Woman GoFundMe: Honoring Tinu’s Legacy With Compassionate SupportAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece) Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall Rooted in Rights: Disabled, Not Disposable – Tinu National Disability Rights Network: Tinu Abayomi-Paul

In the pilot episode of Still Here: A Podcast From The Sick Times, co-hosts Miles Griffis and Betsy Ladyzhets talk with podcast producer James Salanga about the latest COVID-19 numbers. Engagement editor Heather Hogan joins James, Miles, and Betsy to recap the NIH RECOVER-TLC meeting from last week. And in research, a hopeful update about a nasal spray effective at blocking respiratory viruses — including COVID-19. The transcript for this podcast is available on our website. You can jump to specific sections of the transcript and podcast below.(00:00:00) Intro(00:02:15) COVID-19 trends(00:04:55) Top story — Recap of NIH RECOVER-TLC meeting and reflections(00:22:15) Research — A nasal spray that performed well in preclinical trials (00:23:00) Outro and creditsYou can also find our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Amazon Music and iHeartRadio.-Mentioned in this episode (in order of appearance): The Sick Times: National COVID-19 trends, October 1 CDC wastewater dashboard Biobot wastewater risk reports WastewaterSCAN dashboard The Sick Times: ‘They bungled it:’ NIH documents reveal how $1.6 billion Long Covid initiative has failed so far to meet its goals The Sick Times: Q&A: NIH Director Dr. Monica Bertagnolli on next steps for RECOVER, future Long COVID research plans, and more  The Sick Times: Live blog: Following the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID kickoff event The Sick Times: “A good step”: Long COVID advocates and researchers respond to the RECOVER-Treating Long COVID meeting  National Academies Press: Global Functioning in Long COVID JAMA Network: Characterizing Long COVID in Children and Adolescents The Sick Times: Five reasons why the NIH should retract the “effort preference” claims in their intramural ME/CFS paper NIH RECOVER website RECOVER-TLC: Submit a therapeutic to be considered in a clinical trial Harvard Gazette: Drug-free nasal spray blocks, neutralizes viruses, bacteriaAdditional audio in this episode:  Rude Mechanical Orchestra: Which Side Are You On? (orig. Florence Reece)  Pixabay: Thunder and the beginning of rainfall

Learn more about The Sick Times' new podcast, Still Here! Our cover design is from Sophie Dimitriou. The Sick Times is a nonprofit newsroom chronicling the ongoing Long COVID crisis. Transcript below: [instrumental from Rude Mechanical Orchestra’s rendition of “Which Side Are You On?”, orig. Florence Reece, throughout the song] Miles: Many public health authorities and media outlets are ignoring the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.  Betsy: They’re also failing to cover Long COVID, the most common adverse outcome of COVID-19. Miles: I’m Miles Griffis.  Betsy: And I’m Betsy Ladyzhets. We’re the co-founders of The Sick Times.  Miles: We are covering the continued Long COVID crisis that affects over four hundred million people globally.  Betsy: We’ve been bringing you the latest Long COVID news and commentary from our non-profit newsroom since fall 2023.  Miles: Without pandemic denial, minimizing, or gaslighting.  Betsy: Now we’re expanding with a new weekly podcast. James: We’re calling it Still Here. Because we know disabled people, and COVID, are still here.  I’m James Salanga, and I’m Still Here’s producer.  Betsy: Come with us each week as we share the latest on Long COVID and COVID-19 in the United States, give you more context about the stories we’ve published on our website, and highlight new Long COVID research.  Miles: We’ll bring the information and perspectives you need. James: Join us as we continue to hold powerful institutions accountable and amplify the lived experiences of those most impacted by the pandemic.  Our first episode is coming to a podcast provider near you in early October. Stay tuned!