© 2024 WRVO Public Media
NPR News for Central New York
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

This week: Delta variant, and new birth control, more

The majority of new U.S. cases of COVID-19 at the beginning of August are reported to be the delta variant.

Dr. Elizabeth Asiago-Reddy, chief of infectious disease at Upstate University Hospital, explains what distinguishes the delta variant from SARS-CoV-2, the original form of the virus responsible for the global pandemic in this episode of "HealthLink on Air." She goes over breakthrough infections, the value of masks, and why vaccination is crucial.

Also this week, Dr. Renee Mestad, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology, talks about a new nonhormonal birth control method that women can use "on-demand." Phexxi, which was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, may be a good option for some women. Mestad goes over how the contraceptive works, its effectiveness and potential side effects.

And, Dr. Jason Wallen, the chief of thoracic surgery, answers the question “How often does lung cancer recur after treatment?”

Listen this Sunday, August 8 at 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. for more.

Stay Connected