Key developments for Thursday, August 6, 2020

Welcome to the newly revamped Key Developments, now a twice-weekly newsletter with a focus on non-COVID news. While we're still primarily covering COVID updates, we aim to broaden our scope gradually as time goes on.

Globally, there are now over 19.2 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, with daily new cases exceeding a quarter-million. Over 716,000 lives have been lost to the pandemic. In the United States, there are more than 5 million cases and over 162,000 fatalities. Since yesterday, the U.S. reported an additional 53,000 cases. Brazil continues to lead in daily case growth, followed by India and Russia, where case and death rates are now surpassing those in the U.S.

In Spain, a resurgence of infections is underway:

Instead of "follow the money," the saying now might as well be "follow the tech companies." If major tech firms are keeping employees working remotely well into next year, it signals a significant shift in workplace dynamics.

New research provides further evidence that the virus can spread through aerosolized particles, suggesting that these tiny droplets are highly contagious:

It's not just asymptomatic children who carry high viral loads; adults do too. Research from South Korea indicates that infected individuals, regardless of symptoms, can indeed transmit the virus. Additionally, embryos express ACE2 genes as early as the second week of development. While it's unclear whether they develop prominent ACE2 receptors, if they do, embryos may be vulnerable to infection if the mother contracts COVID-19. Researchers from Cambridge and Caltech emphasize the need for more studies to understand potential risks to embryo development and viability.

Experts predict that many schools reopening in the fall may close again in October due to increased case numbers. More updates on the NIH's phase 3 trials for antibody cocktails are forthcoming.

If successful, Moderna's vaccine could cost less than a typical flu shot from big-box pharmacies. Bulk purchases by institutions would reduce costs further, though this would require millions of doses.

Mayor Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles plans to cut water and electricity to homes hosting large gatherings, calling these venues "nightclubs in the hills":

Immunology remains complex, with SARS-CoV-2 confusing the immune system and causing severe cases to spiral out of control. This article provides an insightful overview of current knowledge and gaps regarding immunity and COVID-19.

In Georgia, schools have opened, and students are already testing positive and being sent home. Adding to concerns, some schools have threatened to suspend students who criticize crowded hallways on social media or stay home to avoid infection. Already, two students have been suspended.

More sports events are being canceled:

Americans urgently need direct stimulus aid, rent relief, and mortgage assistance amid the pandemic-induced economic crisis. However, political gridlock is preventing action. Eviction bans are expiring, leaving millions at risk of homelessness. President Trump has hinted at an executive order to cut payroll taxes if no stimulus agreement is reached.

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