2 discussions
1. Directions: Using reputable websites, such as the CDC.gov, NIH.gov, or WHO.gov (do NOT use blogs, wikis, or any site ending in .com or .net) write discussions listing all questions mentioned
The efficiency of transmission for any respiratory virus has important implications for containment and mitigation strategies. The current study indicates an estimated basic reproduction number (R0) of 2.2, which means that, on average, each infected person spreads the infection to an additional two persons. Until this number falls below 1.0, it is likely that the outbreak will continue to spread. Recent reports of high titers of virus in the oropharynx early in the course of disease arouse concern about increased infectivity during the period of minimal symptoms. China, the United States, and several other countries have instituted temporary restrictions on travel with an eye toward slowing the spread of this new disease within China and throughout the rest of the world. Community spread in the United States could require a shift from containment to mitigation strategies such as social distancing in order to reduce transmission. Such strategies could include isolating ill persons (including voluntary isolation at home), school closures, and telecommuting where possible. Share your thoughts on this. Are we, the US and other affected countries, succeeding or failing in stopping the transmission of the pandemic? What lesson(s) are learned?
Every outbreak provides an opportunity to gain important information, some of which is associated with a limited window of opportunity. For example, a mean interval of 9.1 to 12.5 days between the onset of illness and hospitalization. This finding of a delay in the progression to serious disease may be telling us something important about the pathogenesis of this new virus and may provide a unique window of opportunity for intervention. Achieving a better understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease will be invaluable in navigating our responses in this uncharted arena. Furthermore, genomic studies could delineate host factors that predispose persons to acquisition of infection and disease progression. Share your thoughts on this. What do you believe are the 3 most crucial strategies for an intervention of this pandemic?
2. Before the sexual revolution initiated by ‘the pill,’ men were a more integral part of family planning and other reproductive health concerns than they are today. If a couple wished to use contraception, their options were limited primarily to methods requiring a man’s participation – withdrawal, periodic abstinence or condoms.
Hormonal methods for women, beginning with the first oral contraceptives in 1960, and the subsequent development of intrauterine devices and modern surgical sterilization, led to the development of a family planning services community focused on women, often to the exclusion of men. Today’s challenge, as expressed by the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Cairo, is to enhance male responsibility for family planning by expanding services in ways that protect the reproductive health of both men and women, and by encouraging greater sensitivity to gender issues.
Explain how hormonal contraceptives physiologically affect:
Women (Last names A-M)
Men (Last names N-Z) (This can be hormonal or physical. Do NOT post about vasectomies … we know what they are already!)
Describe and explain your views on contraceptives for both men and women. Be sure to reference any outside resource you use in your post.
Word Count: 300 words minimum