by Raywat Deonandan, PhD
Epidemiologist & Associate Professor
University of Ottawa
(I add my credentials to these COVID-19 blog posts in case they get shared. I want readers to know that my opinion is supposedly an educated and informed one)

Shhh. The baby is asleep, so I have to type this really quietly.

In today’s post, I hope to address a few of the more common questions that both the public and the media have about the new COVID vaccines. As of now, we really only have data for three jabs: the Pfizer/Biontech one, the Moderna one, and the one produced in partnership between Astra Zeneca and Oxford University.

Since conspiracy theories are out of control these days, I must begin with the standard disclaimer. Yes, I have done paid consulting work for drug companies in the distant past. And yes, I own shares in both Pfizer and Astra Zenaca…. amounting to HUNDREDS, yes HUNDREDS, of dollars. Watch out, Jeff Bezos. (more…)

by Raywat Deonandan, PhD
Epidemiologist & Associate Professor
University of Ottawa
(I add my credentials to these COVID-19 blog posts in case they get shared. I want readers to know that my opinion is supposedly an educated and informed one)

I can’t believe I have to talk about this. But I do. And I’ll try to make it quick.

My frustration with the COVID-denial narrative is palpable. Today I tweeted my quick take on their standard playbook:

I’ve tackled many, if not all, of these weak claims right here on this blog. I’m quite tired of talking about them, quite tired of having to convince people that a real thing is a real thing. I expected that my time would be most valued explaining some of the science underpinning the phenomenon we are presently experiencing, and not having to argue with strangers over basic logical fallacies. (more…)

by Raywat Deonandan, PhD
Epidemiologist & Associate Professor
University of Ottawa
(I add my credentials to these COVID-19 blog posts in case they get shared. I want readers to know that my opinion is supposedly an educated and informed one)

Well, 2020 is almost over, and of course COVID-19 throws us another curve ball to round out the year. The “new variant” that now dominates the news has arrived in Canada. Because I’ve had several media requests to comment on this development, let’s take a moment to take stock of what we know about this variant and what it might mean for our efforts to combat the epidemic.

(more…)