With inputs from Dr Monica Vasudev

Less than 100 new cases recorded in India 

A total of 96 new cases of Covid-19 were reported yesterday in the country, according to latest data from the Union Health Ministry. While the total tally of Covid cases rose to 4,49,93,282, the number of active cases declined to 2017 from 2555 last week. Total deaths so far are 5,31,893… (Source: PTI, June 16, 2023).

FDA recommends monovalent XBB Covid vaccine 

An FDA advisory committee has recommended removing the wild strains of SARS-CoV-2 and formulating a monovalent Covid-19 vaccine, targeting only the XBB-sublineages, which now account for more than 95% of the circulating variants in the United States. The sublineages currently under consideration include XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, or XBB.2.3… (Source: FDA, June 15, 2023).

Recovery of loss of smell or taste in Covid-19

Around 75% of patients who lost their sense of taste and smell recovered completely and nearly 21% had partial recovery. Less than 3% reported no recovery of taste and smell. Nearly 60% of the 36 million people who developed Covid-19 in 2021 reported loss of smell or taste. Recovery was less likely among those who had severe infection … (Source: Laryngoscope, June 2, 2023).

Incident GI complications in long Covid

Patients with Covid-19 are at 36% greater risk of developing new-onset GI complications within 30 days after recovery from the acute phase of the infection and experience disorders like functional dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcer disease, acute gastritis, cholangitis, peptic ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, acute pancreatitis. Constipation and diarrhea were also common among these patients… (Source: Nature Communications, March 2023). 

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome in Covid-19

Patients who recover from Covid-19 may develop postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) within 6-8 months of the infection. Fatigue, tachycardia (≥30 from the normal resting heart rate), orthostatic intolerance and cognitive impairment are major symptoms. Its early identification and management is crucial. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis… (Source: Cureus. March 31, 2023).