Public Health

‘We are not that great’: Gain-of-function research highlights our hubris

Gain-of-function research entails modifying pathogens in ways that can make them more dangerous. The pandemic shows us what the fallout of such research could look like.

Let’s not leave the village at the Olympics

It was thrilling to watch the Canadian women’s soccer team win the gold medal in a dramatic shootout. We, as a nation, celebrated the teamwork on display. So why has our nation been unable to rally together behind the battle against COVID-19 in the same way?

Do we need booster shots?

Healthy Debate Editor-in-Chief Seema Marwaha talks about how booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines could help protect the immunocompromised – especially during the fourth wave – and, perhaps later on, the general public.

Weigh the risks and benefits of activities to keep your unvaccinated children safe

As the Delta variant pushes Canada into a fourth wave, Healthy Debate Editor-in-Chief Seema Marwaha discusses how to keep our children safe for the rest of the summer.

Five reasons why COVID-19 cases are increasing when vaccination rates are going up

Despite high vaccination coverage, COVID-19 cases are increasing in parts of Canada and experts are predicting a fourth wave this fall (or sooner). Here's why.

Please, Health Canada, do not make vapers return to tobacco!

The federal government's planned ban on flavoured vapes is a terrible idea that could push many ex-smokers who vape back to smoking cigarettes, resulting in a large increase in disease, disability, and death.

Vaccine passports: Moral baggage or all-inclusive destination?

When it comes to vaccine passports, perhaps the ends justify the means – they will increase vaccinations and benefit everyone. But perhaps we must also admit that they are, at best, only a small part of the solution to increasing vaccination.

We need substantial health system improvements to be prepared for future pandemics

When the next crisis hits, will we again rely on the sheer grit of heroic individuals to craft ‘work-arounds’ with patchwork solutions? Or will we invest in the infrastructure that would improve the lives of Canadians?

Vaccine passports explained

A vaccine passport or identification system is a way to provide official proof of immunization when taking part in higher-risk activities. We break down what it looks like, who is doing it and what the ethical considerations might be.

Evaluating COVID vaccines: Clinical trials vs. observational studies

An epidemiologist breaks down the differences between short-term clinical trials and observational studies, and what each type of inquiry can tell us about how well vaccines work and how long they will last.

My vaccine status? It’s private

Asking people about their vaccination status may be well-intentioned, but it can violate their privacy and lead to negative consequences for them. It's time to reconsider asking about it during our regular public interactions.

Patient Navigator: Do COVID vaccines work for people on immune-suppressing drugs?

People who take immune-suppressing drugs appear to be less protected by COVID vaccines than others – but ongoing research suggests there may be other ways for this group to stay safe.

Delaying second doses helped avert ICU catastrophe

It’s clear that when Ontario's ICUs were on the brink of being overwhelmed at the beginning of May, delaying second doses of the vaccines to have more people get one dose almost certainly helped avert catastrophe.

Speed and flexibility: Pop-up clinics highlight advantages of learning health systems

The COVID vaccine rollout is a litmus test for the learning health system. It requires speed, well-working collaborations with community members and the ability to adjust on the fly as supplies and eligibility requirements change.

Vivid dreams and COVID arms: The weird vaccine ‘side effects’ you’re experiencing are likely harmless

Though COVID-19 vaccines are reported to have more intense side effects than a regular flu shot, this is merely a sign that your immune system is doing its job.

Pandemic highlights need for more public health education

Some consider teaching public health in medical school a “waste of time," but better understanding the social determinants of health can help physicians better care for their patients.

When will your children be vaccinated? An update on COVID-19 vaccines for kids

Wondering when your kid will be able to get vaccinated? Miranda Caley provides an update on the studies that vaccine companies are conducting to test the safety and efficacy of vaccines for youth 18 and under.

Skies are far from clear as pandemic restrictions ease

Even with travel restrictions lifting, COVID-19 isn’t going away. If you decide to travel, plan for a bumpy ride.

‘I got AstraZeneca for my first dose. Which should I get for my second?’ A COVID vaccination guide

If you had AstraZeneca for dose 1, you now have a choice. You can get AstraZeneca for dose 2 or you can get a dose of Moderna or Pfizer instead. We have some information you can use to weigh your options.

‘This is the community in action’: Toronto’s Disability Vaccine Outreach Initiative

Disabled people are assisting their peers in gaining access to vaccines while also educating vaccine clinics about access needs. It's just one example of why involving communities in the rollout matters.