Health
Your 2024 guide to Covid symptoms and treatment
We’re four years into the pandemic, and by this point, most Americans have had Covid at least once. But when the virus comes for us (again), it can still feel just as alarming as your first bout.
Here’s a guide to what Covid looks like now and how to treat it.
Symptoms
The most common Covid symptoms haven’t changed much since the start of the pandemic, and they remain consistent for the latest dominant variant, JN.1, said Dr. Soniya Gandhi, the associate chief medical officer at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. They include fatigue, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, headache, body aches and cough.
“All or any of those in isolation can still be Covid,” Dr. Gandhi said.
Some people may develop conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, or experience gastrointestinal issues, like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, but those symptoms are rarer. Anecdotally, experts said, one of the most notable symptoms early in the pandemic — the loss of taste and smell — also appears to be less common these days.
“The biggest change is that people are having milder symptoms overall,” said Dr. Amanda Casto, an acting assistant professor of allergy and infectious diseases at the University of Washington. That’s because virtually everyone has some pre-existing immunity from vaccines, a prior infection or both.
While Covid is mild for most people, it can be dangerous and even fatal for some. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that, as of mid-February, more than 21,000 people were hospitalized with Covid, and there had been roughly 10,000 Covid-related deaths in 2024.
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Severe illness is a lot less prevalent now than during the first few years of the pandemic, “but we’re still seeing it,” said Dr. Stuart Ray, a professor in the division of infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore. The people who are getting sickest tend to be those with compromised immune systems and underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or lung problems. Adults over age 65 are also at higher risk for severe infections.
Since mild Covid can look like a cold or the flu, it’s important to test yourself if you have symptoms or have had a known exposure, Dr. Gandhi said. Knowing what you have can affect your treatment and how long you isolate from others.
On March 1, the C.D.C. updated its guidance for preventing the spread of Covid and other respiratory viruses. The agency recommended that people isolate until their symptoms have started to improve and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours. The agency acknowledged that people may still be contagious at this point and should continue to take precautions, like masking and physical distancing, for the next five days.
Treatment
The antiviral pill Paxlovid is very effective against severe Covid, reducing the risk of death by 73 percent if taken within the first five days of an infection, according to a preliminary study conducted by the National Institutes of Health. Experts urged people who are high-risk to contact their doctors about getting a prescription as soon as they have symptoms or test positive.
“If you’re elderly or you have comorbidities, before you even get worse, you should already seek medical care,” said Dr. Bernard Camins, the medical director for infection prevention at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York. “Your health care provider will then evaluate you if you’re a candidate for antivirals.”
Paxlovid isn’t recommended for everyone. It can interact with several medications, including common ones used to lower blood pressure or prevent blood clots, and it’s also not advised for people with severe kidney disease. If you can’t take Paxlovid, the drug remdesivir could be an option, but it has to be delivered intravenously, so it’s less convenient and harder to obtain.
Paxlovid also doesn’t appear to provide much benefit to young, healthy adults whose risk of severe infection is low, so it isn’t broadly recommended for those groups.
For most people, Covid symptoms can be managed at home and treated like any other respiratory illness, with an emphasis on rest and staying hydrated. “If you have congestion or cough, you’re losing more fluids than you normally would,” Dr. Casto said. “So I would definitely recommend that people stay on top of fluid.”
If you have a fever or body aches, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin). You can also take over-the-counter cold and flu medicines with decongestants or cough suppressants, though the experts didn’t recommend them strongly because they don’t work for everybody and can cause drowsiness.
When to seek medical care
If you’re experiencing shortness of breath — meaning you can’t catch your breath or are taking quick and shallow breaths — it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
“The thing that I worry most about is the breathing,” Dr. Casto said. “That’s the most concerning sign, because people can get” worse really quickly. If you’re having trouble breathing, she advised going to the emergency room rather than to your doctor or an urgent care clinic. Experts also said you should see a provider if you experience confusion or chest pain.
If your symptoms don’t improve after several days, or improve and then regress, it could be a sign you have a secondary infection like pneumonia, Dr. Casto said. In that case, or if you’re concerned about your symptoms at all, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
The Delta State Government has announced plans to reduce the cost of dialysis treatment in state-owned hospitals from over ₦70,000 to ₦45,000, in a bid to ease the financial burden on patients battling kidney-related ailments.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed this on a Delta Television live programme, “Politics in Perspective”.
He explained that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the procurement of eight new dialyzers for government hospitals across the state to support the initiative.
According to Onojaeme, the state’s recent investment in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scan machines will also curb the stress of residents travelling long distances within and outside the country for medical diagnosis.
He cautioned medical personnel against indulging in sharp practices, warning that erring staff would face severe sanctions.
The Commissioner further revealed that the governor has approved the renovation and overhaul of more than 150 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) spread across the three senatorial districts to enhance access to affordable healthcare.
He added that the state’s free maternal healthcare programme has already yielded positive results, reducing maternal mortality from 350 to 120 per 100,000 live births.
To strengthen service delivery, Onojaeme stated that all government hospitals have been granted approval to utilise 100 percent of their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to meet basic operational needs.
Presently, Delta boasts three tertiary hospitals, 65 general hospitals, and 441 PHCs, many of which are undergoing comprehensive remodelling.
On the contributory health scheme, the Commissioner noted that several reforms have been implemented, while medical staff who attempted to sabotage government’s efforts were sanctioned or demoted.
He also highlighted ongoing surveillance under the Drug Revolving Fund to prevent fake and adulterated drugs from entering government health facilities.
Onojaeme commended Governor Oborevwori’s recognition by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for being the first governor in the country to pay the Medical Residency Fund, alongside his numerous health sector projects.
He urged Deltans to embrace regular medical check-ups for early detection and prevention of serious ailments, reiterating that the Oborevwori administration is committed to making healthcare both accessible and affordable.
The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta State branch, Tuesday, expressed confidence that the future of healthcare delivery in the state remains bright under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The Association, led by its Chairman, Dr. Israel Adaigho, stated this during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.
Dr. Adaigho lauded Governor Oborevwori’s led government for what he described as massive achievements and excellence in primary healthcare, the Contributory Health Scheme, improved maternal and child healthcare through the establishment of mobile clinics, and the strengthening of health institutions across the state.
He listed key strides to include; the establishment of the College of Health Technology, Ovrode; College of Medical Sciences, Southern Delta University, Ozoro; and the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku, alongside the renovation of over 150 primary healthcare centres.
He further highlighted the provision of hospital equipment such as MRI machines and 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners, as well as Delta’s pioneering payment of medical residency training funds ahead of the Federal Government.
Beyond the health sector, Dr. Adaigho praised the Governor for critical infrastructural projects such as the completion of the Ughelli–Asaba Road dualisation project, the construction of flyovers in Effurun and Warri, and the clearance of backlog pension payments for state and local government retirees.
While pledging the association’s continued partnership with government, he also drew attention to some challenges confronting health workers, including manpower shortages.
In his response, Governor Oborevwori commended the NMA for its role in safeguarding quality healthcare and for the sacrifices made by doctors and medical workers who continue to serve in Nigeria despite the lure of better opportunities overseas.
He listed some of his administration’s recent interventions, including the procurement of eight dialysis machines, three each for Asaba Specialist Hospital and Central Hospital, Warri, and two for DELSUTH, Oghara as well as three MRI machines, one for each senatorial district of the state.
Re-emphasising the value of doctors serving at home, the Governor said: “It is better for our doctors to work in Nigeria and earn their respect than to go abroad and become care assistants.”
Oborevwori assured that his administration would look into the requests tabled by the association and reaffirmed his commitment to equipping Delta hospitals with medical facilities comparable to those in developed countries. He approved the release of a bus to the Association.
Nigerians React; Tears As Phyna’s Younger Sister Dies Days After She Was Hit By Dangote’s Truck
Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna, has died.
Ruth passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m., according to a statement released by Eko Solicitors & Advocates.
“With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing on to glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on this 31st Day of August, 2025, at about 06:30Hrs,” the statement read..
Phyna late sister
The family added that they are grieving and would appreciate being given a private moment to mourn Ruth.
“The funeral arrangement will be communicated to the public in due course,” the statement added.
Ruth had suffered a tragic accident just weeks earlier. She had her leg amputated after being hit by a Dangote Group-owned truck near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
Eyewitnesses reported that the heavy-duty truck smashed her leg before being halted by a bystander.
Ruth had graduated from Auchi Polytechnic barely six days before the accident occurred. Her unexpected passing has left her family and followers in despair.
Netizens Mourn Phyna’s Sister
star_entreprise_ said: “Her sister Phyna really fought for her It’s so painful. Sometimes death is kindness cos the pain was so much for her to bear. RIP.”
_hassanahh said: “This is beyond heartbreaking 💔. And what makes it worse is that it keeps happening over and over. Dangote trucks have claimed too many innocent lives in Nigeria, and yet nothing changes. Instead of accountability, we keep seeing underage, untrained drivers behind the wheel of heavy-duty trucks that should only be handled by professionals.
“The fact that the driver who killed this young woman was released by the police says everything about how the system shields the powerful while the ordinary citizen pays with their life. In a just country, the company would be investigated, the drivers held accountable, and the families compensated. But here, it’s silence, cover-ups, and another tragic headline.
“How many more people must die before this pattern is taken seriously? At some point, we must admit this is no longer misfortune—it’s negligence, and negligence kills.” annie.ifx said: “In a sane society, dangote would be facing serious charges. Their trucks have killed so many people over the years without any accountability.”
luvley_doyin said: “Atleast content creators will rest nw 😭.”
@Tobbyakog said: “Will Dangote go free for this? Or nobody wants to talk?”
tito.nass said: “The fact that she even had to struggle in pains and death eventually took its toll… it’s well. May God comfort her family (omoooo the more I type the more pain I feel for phyna).”
dimx___ said: “What a pity, in a sane country class action lawsuit go dun wound Dangote, imagine people losing their lives everyday because of your multibillionaira business and there are no consequences or reparations.”
dat_urhobogirl said: “Una mini god can now rest. Always diverting attention and changing narrative if you don’t allow him to front it.
Now, he can rest and look for his next victim. Dear Ruth, the world does not deserve you😢😢😢😢watch over your children 🙏.”
yesbosschuks said; “Now those who didn’t let her get the immediate treatment she deserved, hope they will let her rest now. Sad country.”
There’s nothing wrong with having a routine: a go-to breakfast, a skincare regimen, a weekly date night. But when it comes to sex, there are preferred time for the intimacy to increase where both partners enjoy the moment.
From genuine classics, like missionary and doggy style, to twists on tried-and-true techniques, like cowgirl’s helper, these sex positions have best time to enjoy them without any discomfort .
Sex experts shared their thoughts on why other time of having sex are more profitable and enjoyable than night.
Age may be a factor in our preferred sex schedules, too, sex therapist and neuroscience researcher Nan Wise said.
“As a rule, people become more like larks as they age. They like to go back to bed earlier and probably would be more interested in sex in the morning,” Wise, author of “Why Good Sex Matters,” told HuffPost. “Young people tend to be night owls and might be more available or interested in sex in the evening.”
But is there actually a “best” time of day to have sex? We turned to sex experts to get the pros and cons of doing the deed morning, afternoon and night. Here’s what they had to say.
Morning sex
One reason men in particular may be fond of sex before breakfast? Around 8 a.m. is when testosterone levels — the sex hormone that plays a role in libido and erections — are at their peak.
“For testosterone-producing men, mornings are when the levels of testosterone are highest, since it’s made during sleep,” Robin Wilson-Beattie, a disability and sexuality advocate and educator, told HuffPost. “For some men, this means they have a better sexual response in the a.m.”
What’s more, feel-good neurotransmitters such as endorphins and dopamine are released during sex, “which is a great way to be in a good mood and start your day right,” sex therapist Nazanin Moali, host of the podcast “Sexology,” said.
Early birds may feel extra energetic or enthusiastic in the morning hours, which could make them more game for sex at that time, Wise added.
Morning sex has the potential to boost your mood for the rest of the day.
But there are some potential drawbacks, too — namely that mornings tend to be hectic for people who have to juggle getting ready for work, trying to get the kids off to school and other to-dos. A tight schedule can make it hard for some people to be fully present and in the mood for sex.
“Additionally, stress may lead to struggles with sexual functioning — which, in turn, may result in disappointment and not how you would want to start your morning,” Moali said.
Some people may feel energized by morning sex, but for others, getting busy in the a.m. can make them want to curl up in bed and go back to sleep. The cocktail of hormones released during sex and orgasm can make you feel uber-relaxed but also tired, which isn’t ideal when you’re about to face the day.
“For some, orgasms and sexual activity are exhausting and [they] need rest and emotional care afterward,” Wilson-Beattie said. “And you might not have time for that!”
Evening sex
Sex at night is popular for a reason, Wilson-Beattie said. It’s only after the events of the day are behind them that partners finally have a chance to relax and connect without distractions.
“With work, children and activities, nighttime is when things slow down and it’s just you and your partner, wrapping the day off with making love before dropping off to sleep,” she said.
Another bonus? Having sex before bed can make it easier for some people to fall asleep, thanks to the release of hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin.
“A mutually satisfying physical and mental interaction before sleep enhances mood, feelings of well-being, releases stress and makes it easier to switch off the busy mind to go to sleep and stay asleep,” Amer Khan, a Sutter Health neurologist and sleep specialist, told Healthline. “If a satisfying sexual orgasm after an exciting foreplay is a part of that interaction, it is also likely to lead to better sleep.”
Having sex before bed can make it easier for some people to fall — and stay — asleep.
On the flip side, if you’re already mentally exhausted before you even get into bed, then sex might be the furthest thing from your mind.
“The stress or occurrences of the day may still occupy a significant portion of your thoughts, and it’s difficult to transition that into a sexual context,” Moali said.
And if you live with certain health conditions or disabilities, “your body may physically be in too much pain from a full day’s activities” to have sex before bed, Wilson-Beattie said.
A British teacher accused of sexually assaulting a child in Turkey should not be extradited, because she has depression, a court has heard.
Rebecca Richardson, 54, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday as she fights extradition to Turkey over allegations she sexually assaulted a young child while teaching at an international school in Istanbul.
The alleged incident happened in early 2019, when the child would have been four or five years old.
The court heard Richardson, of Cradley in Herefordshire, left the UK in 2000 and spent nearly 20 years living abroad.
She lived in Turkey between 2013 and 2019, but before that had lived in Mexico and Hong Kong, the extradition hearing was told.
Doctors who have assessed her told the court she suffers from depression.
Dr Richard Latham said Richardson suffers from moderate depression, but her symptoms would worsen if she were to be extradited and imprisoned in Turkey.
As the New Year approaches, excitement fills the air as we prepare to say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025.
This time of year is all about fresh starts and new resolutions, inspiring people to set goals and embrace positive changes. Celebrations are everywhere, with friends and family gathering to enjoy each other’s company. From lively parties to fireworks lighting up the night sky, these moments create lasting memories.
New Year’s is more than just a date, it creates hope and renewal of new beginnings. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the past year while looking forward to new experiences and opportunities. The season encourages us to express gratitude for those who have supported us through life’s challenges. Sending heartfelt wishes to friends is a lovely way to strengthen these important bonds and spread joy.
As we celebrate the joys of friendship, let’s cherish the connections we have and look ahead to a year filled with love, laughter, and meaningful moments. Whether you’re planning a big celebration or a quiet gathering, the spirit of the New Year brings everyone together in anticipation of what lies ahead. Let’s embrace this time with open hearts and minds as we step into 2025!
Here are Happy New Year wishes for your family and friends
Let’s make 2025 our best year yet!
Wishing you a year where every day feels like a celebration. Happy New Year!
A new year, a new chapter and tons of new memories to be made together!
Happy New Year! We know that this past year has been full of challenges, and we pray that the coming year brings brighter days. Sending all our love and good wishes.
You deserve all the best: May all your wishes come true in 2025!
Happy New Year! Let’s promise to stick to our resolutions this year… or at least try!
Wishing you a Happy New Year and a blessed year ahead. May God’s light guide your way in 2025.
Here’s to health, wealth, and all-around success. Happy New Year!
Wishing a big Happy New Year to my amazing [parent/sibling/child]. I love you endlessly and can’t wait to tackle the new year with you.
As the New Year unfolds, may it bring you moments of clarity, opportunities for growth, and the courage to pursue your dreams. Happy New Year!
May the New Year be a canvas for you to paint a vibrant and colourful future. Here’s to creating beautiful memories together. Happy New Year!
Wishing you a New Year filled with new achievements, exciting challenges, and great moments with your loved ones. Let’s make this year even better than the last!
Wishing you balance, fulfilment, and joy in all areas of life this New Year. Let’s continue to support and motivate each other through 2025!
Happy New Year! May this year be filled with accomplishments and growth, both personally and professionally. Let’s make it one to remember!
Wishing you a New Year full of bright smiles, new friends, and so much fun that your heart bursts with happiness every day!
Happy New Year! Always remember that you’re smart, brave, and kind. 2025 is going to be a year of amazing adventures for you!
As the New Year begins, let us leave behind all our worries and embrace the future with hope and joy.
Happy New Year! May this year bring you closer to your dreams and inspire you to reach new heights.
Happy New Year 2025! Wishing you a year filled with peace, joy, and abundance.
May this New Year bring you the courage to face challenges and the strength to overcome them.
Sending you my warmest wishes for a fabulous 2025 filled with joy and success!
Cheers to health, happiness, and prosperity in the New Year! Let’s make it memorable!
As the year comes to an end, let’s reflect on our achievements and look forward to new beginnings.
May the lessons of the past year guide you in the New Year. Happy 2025!
Wishing you peace and happiness as we welcome another year of possibilities.
Let’s leave behind what weighs us down and embrace the new opportunities ahead.
Happy New Year! Hope you have a year filled with positivity.
Wishing you and your family endless blessings this year. Happy New Year 2024!
I hope your life is filled with surprises this year. Happy New Year!
Wishing you a year filled with laughter. Happy New Year!
Wishing you and your family a year filled with happiness. May this year bring lots of prosperity. Happy New Year!
As you say goodbye to 2023, and welcome the year 2024, may happiness follow you always. Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! May the coming year be filled with fresh starts and exciting journeys.
Wishing you a year of fulfillment and happiness. Happy New Year!
May the new bring countless blessings to you and your family. Happy New Year!
Wishing you a year of happiness and good luck. Happy New Year!
Wishing you a year of growth and success. Happy New Year!
May the new year bring lots of love and light to your family. Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! I hope this year brings a lot of opportunities and the fruits of success to you.
May the new beginnings fill your life with magical moments. Happy New Year!
May the new year brings exciting opportunities to you. Happy New Year!
As the new year arrives, I pray for your good luck and good health. Happy New Year!
Wishing you and your loved ones a fantastic year ahead! Happy New Year!
Wishing you 365 days of happiness and laughter. Happy New Year 2024
Here’s to another year of togetherness. Thank you for being in my life. Happy New Year!
May this year fill your heart with immense joy. Happy New Year!
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