EPISODE 1
covid-19:
from evidence to advice
Why does expert advice change?
How can we interpret risk evidence?
How do we deal with uncertainty?
In this episode we focus on Source-Pathway-Receptor Framework and, as always, a bit of cost benefit analysis
***February 2021 update on masks ***
Given the new virus variants, we wanted to check out the new advice about masks. Listen to the quick update (we sneak in ‘the precautionary principle’ too). You can download the references which we used for the update by clicking: updated Covid19 & mask references Feb 2021
From August 2020. One of the
biggest changes the coronavirus pandemic has caused in our day-to-day lives is
that we now wear a mask in shops, restaurants, and public transport – after a
long debate about whether we should wear them.
Why has this
advice changed? Can we trust science if it is so susceptible to change? How can
we join the dots from evidence to advice?
How should we
wear the masks (or gloves or visors) and look after them? Is there a way to
protect ourselves that’s sustainable and affordable? We investigate.
Also,
you’ve probably read headlines claiming that countries led by female leaders
fared better at containing the pandemic. We look at the research on women
leaders and at what sets them apart from more autocratic male leaders.
***All information and statistics correct at time of recording: early August 2020***
***The views we and our guests express in this podcast are our own***
reference list
(Click on the links below to find out more)
Reducing transmission, and the efficacy of PPE
Face masks work – read about the University of Oxford’s study and the evidence behind the advice
America’s leading infectious disease expert’s advice on eye shields
Discussion of changes in government attitudes towards face coverings
Overview of the modes of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and implications for infection prevention
Investigation into the change in transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 with use of face masks
Do face shields provide protection to the wearer and decrease transmissibility?
Do latex gloves protect the wearer and decrease transmissibility?
What is the WHO’s advice on rubber gloves?
How to avoid infection with SARS-CoV-2
further resources
What policies responses are appropriate to address threats of zoonotic diseases?
Have retailers been profiteering off PPE by placing excessive markups?
What are the labour rights concerns in the medical gloves industry?
International scientific forum on home hygiene and health
How do I take care of my face mask?
Researchers create tests to determine which masks are most effective