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Low levels of vitamin D linked to long COVID

Also known as post COVID-19 syndrome, long COVID is a new condition in which the effects of COVID-19 last for more than 12 weeks after contracting the initial infection. Studies have shown that it affects 50-70% of patients previously hospitalised for COVID-19, yet very little is known about the condition. One risk factor for worse outcomes for hospitalised COVID-19 patients, such as intubation and mechanical ventilation or death, is low vitamin D levels, but its role in long COVID has not been adequately investigated.

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Long COVID risk has been found to increase with low levels of vitamin D, according to research presented at the 25th European Congress of Endocrinology in Istanbul. The findings suggest that individuals should have their vitamin D levels checked after COVID-19.

Also known as post COVID-19 syndrome, long COVID is a new condition in which the effects of COVID-19 last for more than 12 weeks after contracting the initial infection. Studies have shown that it affects 50-70% of patients previously hospitalised for COVID-19, yet very little is known about the condition. One risk factor for worse outcomes for hospitalised COVID-19 patients, such as intubation and mechanical ventilation or death, is low vitamin D levels, but its role in long COVID has not been adequately investigated.

For this study, supported by Abiogen Pharma SpA, researchers from the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Milan examined 100 patients aged 51-70 years, with and without long COVID. They measured their vitamin D levels when first admitted to hospital for COVID-19 and six months after being discharged, and found lower vitamin D levels in patients with long COVID compared to those without. This result was more evident in patients who experienced ‘brain fog’ symptoms, such as confusion, forgetfulness and poor concentration, at the six-month follow-up.

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The researchers included patients without any bone conditions and only those who went to hospital for COVID-19, without ending up in the intensive care units (ICUs). They matched the two groups, with and without long COVID, in terms of age, sex, pre-existing chronic diseases and COVID-19 severity. “Previous studies on the role of vitamin D in long COVID were not conclusive mainly due to many confounding factors,” said lead investigator Professor Andrea Giustina. “The highly-controlled nature of our study helps us better understand the role of vitamin D deficiency in long COVID, and establish that there is likely a link between vitamin D deficiency and long COVID.”

While Professor Giustina acknowledges that larger studies are needed to confirm this link, he and his team are now focussed on finding out whether vitamin D supplements can reduce the risk of long COVID. “Our study shows that COVID-19 patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop long COVID but it is not yet known whether vitamin D supplements could improve the symptoms or reduce this risk altogether.”

Lifestyle

DJ Koldbeer Drops Modern Music Remixes

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Shawn Kober is an individual known for his passion for travel and exploration, particularly within the United States. With a keen interest in showcasing the hidden gems of Missouri, Shawn has leveraged his enthusiasm through his social media presence, notably on X under the handle @travelmissouri. His content focuses on promoting local attractions, cultural heritage, and lesser-known destinations, making travel accessible and appealing to a broad audience.

Recently, Shawn has stepped up his multimedia game by releasing a series of music mixes. These mixes blend ambient sounds of nature, cultural tunes from Missouri, and contemporary beats, creating a unique auditory experience that complements his visual storytelling. This new venture into music curation not only diversifies his content but also enhances the sensory journey for his followers, providing a soundtrack to the scenic landscapes he often explores and shares.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Shawn is involved in community initiatives aimed at preserving natural landscapes and historical sites in Missouri. He believes in the power of travel to educate and connect people, fostering a deeper appreciation for one’s surroundings.Professionally, Shawn has carved out a niche in digital content creation, blending his love for photography, storytelling, and travel into a career that informs and inspires others to explore. His work often highlights sustainable travel practices and the importance of understanding and respecting local cultures and environments.

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Beyond his professional endeavors, Shawn is involved in community initiatives aimed at preserving natural landscapes and historical sites in Missouri. He believes in the power of travel to educate and connect people, fostering a deeper appreciation for one’s surroundings.

Shawn’s personal journey is one of continuous learning and adventure, always seeking new experiences to share with his followers, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and discover the beauty in their own backyards. His bio is not just about travel; it’s about creating a narrative that connects people to places, history, and each other.

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Lifestyle

Camdenton’s Transparency in Question: COVID Funds Spent on Video System, Meetings No Longer Broadcast

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CAMDENTON, MO – In the small town of Camdenton, Missouri, a recent expenditure of federal COVID relief funds has sparked controversy and debate over local government transparency. The Camdenton City Council, aiming to enhance public access during the height of the global health crisis, invested in a video system to broadcast their meetings online. This move was initially seen as a step towards greater openness, allowing residents to engage with local governance without the risk of contracting the virus.

However, residents have recently noticed that these public meetings are no longer being streamed. Despite the significant investment in equipment designed to facilitate remote participation, the council has seemingly ceased using the system for broadcasting. This development has led to a wave of frustration among the community members who have come to rely on these virtual meetings for staying informed about local governance issues.

The equipment, which was purchased with funds intended to mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis, was supposed to be a long-term solution for public engagement. The cessation of broadcasts has led to speculation and concern about how these funds are being managed and what the implications are for future public access to government proceedings.

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Council members have yet to issue an official statement on why the broadcasts stopped, although there have been unverified reports of technical difficulties with the equipment. Some speculate that the decision might be tied to some bad publicly earlier in the year when the Camdenton Chamber raised some concerns with the city on a different topic.

The issue has caught the attention of local media, with some outlets like the Camden Citizen reporting on the matter. The broader conversation now includes calls for accountability, with residents demanding explanations and assurances that such investments will not be made in vain in the future.

This situation in Camdenton serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges many small towns face in balancing fiscal responsibility with public service during and after a global health crisis. As the town looks forward, the community hopes for a resolution that not only addresses the current lack of transparency but also ensures that future decisions reflect the needs and expectations of its citizens.

For now, Camdenton residents are left pondering the effectiveness of their local government’s use of federal funds and the ongoing commitment to open governance.

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Lifestyle

Be Safe while cooking this season, Thanksgiving Holiday Fire Safety

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Thanksgiving, the day Americans gather with family and friends to celebrate, cook and eat, is the nation’s leading day for cooking fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (USFA), the number of cooking fires on Thanksgiving is three times as high as on any other day of the year.

In addition to the hazards posed by jammed stovetops and crowded kitchens, turkey fryers and candles contribute to the elevated fire risk on Turkey Day. Preventing fires is simple when following some basic precautions. Remember, while you should always have a fire-extinguisher nearby and know how to use it, don’t delay calling 9-1-1. Ideally, use the extinguisher immediately, as someone else calls 9-1-1.

Stovetops and Ovens

Busy cooks can become distracted preparing several dishes at once while also trying to entertain guests. Cooking fires can easily be prevented by following a few simple precautions:

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  • Start the holiday cooking with a clean stove and oven. Remove food and grease buildup from burners, stovetop, and oven.
  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking and don’t become distracted by guests.
  • Stay in the home when cooking turkey, set a timer, and check on it frequently.
  • Keep children away from the stove. Preferably use the back burners.
  • Keep a flame-resistant oven mitt, potholder or lid nearby to smother any flames.
  • For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
  • Have working smoke alarms in the home and have an escape plan that the entire family knows if there is a fire.

Turkey Fryers

Never use a turkey fryer indoors, in the garage or on a covered patio because of the fire hazard. Never overfill the oil in a turkey fryer. Many turkey fires occur while the oil is being heated. Units can easily tip over, spilling hot, scalding oil onto anyone or anything nearby, leading to fires, burns or other injuries. Since most units do not have automatic thermostatic controls, oil may heat until it catches fire. The sides, lids, and handles get extremely hot and may cause burns.

Safety tips:

  • Read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Completely thaw the turkey.
  • Do not overfill the fryer with oil. Before dumping a few gallons of oil into the fryer, test it out with water. Place the turkey inside and then fill it with water until the bird is submerged. Remove the turkey and mark the water line on the fryer so you will know how much oil to put in the fryer.
  • Never leave the fryer unattended.
  • Keep children and pets well away from the fryer. Remember the oil will remain dangerously hot for hours.
  • Only use the oil recommended by the manufacturer. Different types of oil have different ignition temperatures.
  • Allow at least two feet of space between the liquid propane tank and the fryer burner.
  • Use well-insulated potholders or oven mitts; wear safety goggles to protect eyes from oil splatter.
  • If oil begins to smoke, immediately turn OFF the gas supply.
  • Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
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