Would you take public health guidance from Florida Man?

Happening in the World: In an address on Russian state television, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has said it may close its main gas pipeline to Germany if the West continues with a ban on Russian oil. The US has been considering a potential ban with allies to punish Russia for its invasion of Ukraine. However, Germany and the Netherlands rejected this plan yesterday. The European Union sources 40% of its gas and 30% of its oil from Russia, and there are no easy alternatives if supplies are disrupted. (BBC)

Happening in the US: On Monday, Dr. Lapado, Florida’s surgeon general, announced plans to recommend that healthy children not be vaccinated against COVID-19, contradicting CDC guidance. Dr. Lapado cited studies suggesting limited protection against infection from the COVID-19 vaccine in children. Several studies show that despite waning vaccine efficacy against infection over time, immune response protection against hospitalization and death remains high, even against the Omicron variant. (NYT)

Happening in NYC: While city officials roll back COVID-19 restrictions, an Omicron subvariant called BA.2 is doubling in proportion statewide every two weeks. BA.2 is an offshoot of the Omicron variant—but it spreads 30% faster than its sibling. Health experts currently disagree whether the subvariant will fade into the background or lengthen the Omicron wave that derailed the city over December and January. (Gothamist)

Happening in our Community: Tuesday, March 8, from 3:30 to 5 pm, University Life will present a keynote talk, “Listening to Your Anxiety,” with Dr. Anne Marie Albano, Professor of Medical Psychology (in Psychiatry) at Columbia. Dr. Albano will focus on helping students build their resiliency, and leave attendees with actionable tools to transform their anxiety into guidance and meaning. An RSVP is required to attend, and CUID and green pass will need to be shown upon arrival.

Home of the Florida Man via Land Line Magazine