Respirology

Health Canada has approved the use of remdesivir to treat patients with severe symptoms of COVID-19. The federal agency says the antiviral drug may be used to treat patients who have pneumonia and require extra oxygen to help them breathe. It's the first drug that Health Canada has authorized for the treatment of COVID-19. Health Canada approved its use in adults and adolescents.

New research out of Brazil suggests that the influenza vaccine may provide benefits for patients who contract COVID-19

In support of the ongoing fight against COVID-19 and as part of the province's plan to end hallway health care, the Ontario government is announcing five new Ontario Health Teams and is providing additional funding to better connect care. "Over the past several months, Ontario Health Teams have demonstrated remarkable responsiveness to the COVID-19 outbreak by simplifying the purchase of personal protective equipment, supporting the staffing of long-term care homes and assessment centers, and expanding virtual care options," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, in a press release. "They've done so by breaking down long-standing barriers to better connect care, both in support of patients and our brave frontline heroes. (This) announcement of five new teams will build on this success as we continue to implement our plan to defeat COVID-19."

Protesters also come out against mandatory masking legislation which took effect Monday

Countries in the Southern Hemisphere are reporting fewer cases of influenza this year; however, reporting agencies suggest that results be interpreted with caution

Updates are coming for Canada’s National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) Statement on Seasonal Influenza Vaccine for 2020-21

While doctors were hailed as heroes early in the pandemic, some say they now feel more like cannon fodder in a war that has become increasingly divisive