What We’re Reading: COVID-19 Vaccine Protects Against Eris; Excessive Screen Time and Developmental Delays; Indiana’s Near-Total Abortion Ban

Novavax's Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Shows Immune Response Against Eris Subvariant

In an announcement, Novavax stated that its updated protein-based COVID-19 vaccine has shown promise in generating an immune response against emerging forms of the virus, including the Eris subvariant, in animal studies, according to Reuters. Novavax's vaccine demonstrated virus-neutralizing antibodies against multiple XBB subvariants, including EG.5.1 and XBB.1.16.6, in preclinical studies. Eris accounts for more than 17% of COVID-19 cases in the United States and has been classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization due to potential mutations that may affect its transmissibility and severity.

Excessive Screen Time in Infants Linked to Developmental Delays, Study Finds

Excessive screen time during infancy, ranging from 1 to 4 hours per day, has been associated with a higher risk of developmental delays in communication, fine motor skills, problem-solving, and personal and social skills by age 2 years, according to CNN. In a study published in JAMA Pediatrics involving more than 7000 children, research highlights the importance of mindful and age-appropriate screen time for young children and underscores the significance of quality interactions and activities to support healthy development. Experts recommend alternatives such as reading, coloring, and interactive play to encourage well-rounded growth in infants.

Indiana's Near-Total Abortion Ban Set to Take Effect Following Supreme Court Decision

A near-total abortion ban is set to take effect in the near future following the Indiana Supreme Court's denial of a rehearing in a case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana, according to the Associated Press. The court had previously upheld the ban on June 30, ruling that it did not violate the state's constitution. Once the ruling is certified, the ban is expected to take effect within days. This decision comes amid a wave of restrictions on abortion rights in conservative states following discussions surrounding the overturning of Roe v Wade.