In a recent interview with former FDA commissioner and Pfizer board member, Dr. Scott Gottlieb, it was revealed that the CDC has announced an increase in respiratory illness cases across most areas of the country. This includes cases of RSV, COVID-19, and the flu. Dr. Gottlieb stated that this winter season is expected to follow a more typical pathogen pattern. He mentioned that there was a dense epidemic of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in the south, which is now abating and spreading to the northeast and other parts of the country. RSV primarily affects young children and older adults. However, there are treatments available and ways to protect infants from the infection.

Regarding the flu, Dr. Gottlieb mentioned that it has started later than last year and is predominantly Flu A. The flu vaccine appears to cover it well, and vaccination rates have been good this year. He stated that there is no reason to believe that the flu season will be worse than previous years, and hopefully less severe than last year's early epidemic. As for COVID-19, current cases are lower compared to the same period last year. The average number of cases per day is approximately 600,000. Dr. Gottlieb mentioned that a predominant strain, BA.2.86, is increasing in prevalence, along with a variant called JN.1, which appears to spread more easily. However, there is no evidence to suggest that this new variant is more dangerous than previous strains. Vaccinated individuals or those with recent COVID-19 infections should have some protection against this new variant.

In light of recent reports about clusters of unusual pneumonia cases in Ohio and Massachusetts, Dr. Gottlieb explained that the CDC has identified typical pathogens such as adenovirus, Strep pneumonia, and Mycoplasma pneumonia in these clusters. Mycoplasma pneumonia is a known bacteria that can cause dense outbreaks, particularly in children. It has caused previous epidemics in Europe and China. Dr. Gottlieb emphasized the importance of being alert to symptoms such as a chronic cough, fevers, rashes, and persistent cough in children, as particular antibiotics used to treat usual strains of pneumonia are ineffective against Mycoplasma pneumonia. Specific drugs called Macrolides, such as Azithromycin and Clarithromycin, are needed for treatment.

The interview then shifted to discuss concerns about China and potential travel bans. Dr. Gottlieb stated that currently, there is no evidence to suggest that a novel pathogen is spreading in China. However, he acknowledged that at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, there was limited information and frustration with China's lack of transparency. He emphasized the need for cooperation between countries and the sharing of information, especially in light of the lessons learned from COVID-19. Dr. Gottlieb expressed frustration with China's lack of transparency and called for increased cooperation and information sharing to prevent the spread of potential novel pathogens.

In a separate interview with National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, the discussion focused on the breakdown of hostage negotiations. Kirby stated that while the negotiations have paused, efforts to secure the release of the hostages are ongoing at the National Security Council level, including the President's involvement. He highlighted the importance of continuing humanitarian assistance, including the delivery of critical supplies such as fuel.

Kirby was then asked about civilian casualties and the U.S. government's efforts to address the situation. He acknowledged the high number of casualties and the tragic impact on civilian populations. He stated that the U.S. is working with Israeli counterparts to ensure that operations are conducted with utmost care and precision to minimize civilian casualties. Kirby mentioned that Israel has been receptive to these messages, adjusting their operations based on input from the U.S. government. However, he did not provide a specific assessment of civilian casualties.

When questioned about the issue of red lines and criticism from Senator Van Hollen, Kirby emphasized that security assistance comes with expectations that it will be used in compliance with international law. He stated that the U.S. has been delivering messages to Israel about the importance of being careful and precise in their targeting to avoid civilian casualties. He pointed out that Israel has taken steps to telegraph their operations and has shown receptiveness to U.S. concerns. However, Kirby did not provide a clear answer on whether there are specific red lines in place.