Research Roundup: Diabetes; Paxlovid; MIS-C; Healthy Air On Cruise Ships
Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of health policy studies and briefs.
ScienceDaily:
Repurposed Drug Offers New Potential For Managing Type 1 Diabetes
A new study presents exciting future possibilities for the management of type 1 diabetes and the potential reduction of insulin dependency. The study's findings suggest repurposing of the drug alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) may open doors to innovative therapies in the future. (Indiana University, 11/1)
CIDRAP:
Study: Paxlovid Safe, Effective In Pregnancy
A study based on 211 pregnant women given the antiviral drug nirmatrelvir and ritonavir (Paxlovid) during pregnancy for acute COVID-19 infections shows no increased risk of adverse events in the women or their babies and a reduced risk of complications called the maternal morbidity and mortality index (MMMI). (Soucheray, 11/1)
CIDRAP:
Prior COVID Infection Lowers Risk Of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome In Kids
A pair of studies sheds new light on the SARS-CoV-2–related multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), with Dutch researchers finding that previous COVID-19 infection helps protect children against the condition, and a US study showing that low-dose corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were tied to shorter hospital stays and less severe disease. Both studies were published in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. (Van Beusekom, 11/1)
CIDRAP:
Simulation Study Shows Best Air Exchange For Cruise Ships
A simulation looking at coughing and droplet spread in cruise ship passenger cabins meant for two or more passengers shows that higher ventilation does not necessarily lead to the best viral protection. The study is published in Physics of Fluids. (Soucheray, 11/1)