Publications by authors named "Theresa S Kittle"
Aim: The purpose of this retrospective, correlational pilot study was to explore the relationship between historical weekly weather data including temperature, dew point, humidity, barometric pressure, visibility, and cloud cover compared to weekly influenza-like illness reports over a four year period.
Background: Climate and weather-related conditions may affect the viral activity and transmission of influenza, although this relationship has not been widely studied in nursing. Some research suggests that there are causal links between cold temperatures, low indoor humidity, minimal sun exposure, and influenza outbreaks.
Article Synopsis
- Since February 2020, the U.S. has reported about 6.5 million COVID-19 cases and approximately 190,000 deaths, with a focus on individuals under 21 years old.
- Among the 121 deaths in this age group during the early pandemic, 63% were males, and most were aged between 10-20 years, with a significant percentage being Hispanic and Black.
- About 75% of those who died had underlying medical conditions, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and effective prevention strategies as schools reopen.
Article Synopsis
- * Between April 9-27, data indicated that out of 115 processing facilities in 19 states, about 3% of workers (4,913) contracted COVID-19, with 20 related deaths reported.
- * Effective measures to reduce transmission include symptom screening, discouraging sick workers from coming in, maintaining social distance, using face coverings, and regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces.