On Thursday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of September 30, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 137 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 338 new recoveries, and 36 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 101,468, while the active cases increased to 4,751 (from 4,971).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 40,322 (+37 new) – Total recoveries: 37,846 (+87 new) – Total deaths: 1,386 (+6 new) – Active cases: 1,090
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 13,337 (+24 new) – Total recoveries: 11,970 (+39 new) – Total deaths: 382 (+7 new) – Active cases: 985
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 11,928 (+16 new) – Total recoveries: 11,059 (+29 new) – Total deaths: 369 (+3 new) – Active cases: 500
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 35,881 (+60 new) – Total recoveries: 31,513 (+183 new) – Total deaths: 2,192 ( + 20 new) – Active cases: 2,176
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 4,751 (from 4,971)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 101,468 (+137 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 92,388 (+338 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 4,329 (+36 new*)
A total of 4,298 laboratory results were released for today.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
Introduced last September 13, Apple’s newest models of its flagship iPhones are finally here with the iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 Mini on the more affordable end, and are being sold alongside with the more expensive and premiere iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Apple patrons are raving for the new model of the prestigious brand during the Apple Event this year. While in recent years the iPhones are notorious for releasing newer models every year, with audiences saying that the changes are minimal, here’s what we know so far for these new models:
iPhone 13 Design
Apple will be using the same flat-edged look for all iPhone 13 models, widely similar to its predecessor, the iPhone 12 models. Rounded edges will also be in these new models, which has been a staple since the release of iPhone 6. An all-glass front and back is also featured in these newer models, housed in a matching aluminum frame.
Housing the TrueDepth camera, speaker and microphone will be the notch on the front display, where it is comparatively smaller giving a wider overall display area. Along with the power and volume/silence buttons, a set of antenna bands are located at the sides and top of the phone, respectively. On the bottom, the microphone and speaker holes are located along with a lightning port for charging purposes.
Photo from appleinsider.com website
For the sizes, the iPhone 13 mini is 5.18 inches tall (131.5mm), 2.53 inches wide (64.2mm) and 0.30 inches thick (7.65mm), while the iPhone 13 is 5.78 inches tall (146.7mm), 2.82 inches wide (71.5mm), and 0.30 inches thick (7.65).
Apple has been offering more colors lately and the iPhone 13 models are not an exception. The iPhone 13 and 13 mini come in a series of new colors that include Starlight (a mixture between silver and gold), Midnight (black), Pink, Blue, and (PRODUCT)RED.
In terms of water resistance, the iPhone 13 and 13 mini feature an IP68 water resistant rating. The smartphones are able to withstand a depth of up to six meters (19.7 feet) for up to 30 minutes, identical to the iPhone 12 models.
Display
All iPhone 13 models will feature the same OLED Super Retina XDR display, giving a more flexible look that extends right into the chassis of the device. For blacker blacks and brighter white, an impressive 2,000,000:1 ratio is present in all the iPhone 13 models, with a typical max brightness of 800 nits.
Photo from google.com
The 5.4-inch iPhone 13 mini has a resolution of 2340×1080 with 476 pixels per inch, and the 6.1-inch iPhone 13 features a resolution of 2532 x 1170 with 460 pixels per inch.
For the notch, a noticeably smaller one (20% less than the prior models) houses the TrueDepth camera system and the “ceramic shield” is a continuing feature for all the new iPhone 13 models, which is reportedly way tougher than most glasses used by any smartphones.
A15 Bionic Chip
iPhone 12 models used an A14 bionic chip but this time, an improvement, which is the A15 chip will be used in the newer iPhone 13 models. Two performance cores and four efficiency cores are present in the chip. The A15 chip in the iPhone 13 and 13 mini features a 4-core GPU, which is one less core than is available in the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max. For this reason, the iPhone 13 Pro and the Pro Max offer the fastest GPU performance, but the standard iPhone 13 models aren’t too far behind.
In terms of graphics performance, the newer iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max models perform 50% faster than the 12 models while the standard 13 models fare well at a 15% faster graphics performance.
A 16-core Neural Engine has a performing capacity of 15.8 trillion operations per second, where powerful Apple features like the Cinematic Mode and Smart HDR 4 is easily achieved. All iPhone 13 models will have a starting storage capacity of 128 GB with a maximum of 1 TB for the Pro Max model.
TrueDepth Camera and Face ID
First introduced in 2017, the Face ID will be a recurring feature for the iPhone 13 which is housed in its TrueDepth camera system. Face ID is used across iOS tasks for unlocking the iPhone, allowing access to third-party passcode-protected apps, confirming app purchases, and authenticating Apple Pay payments.
The TrueDepth camera, along with its superb facial recognition feature, will have a 12-megapixel f/2.2 camera which is top-tier for front-face selfies and FaceTime applications.
Photo from wccftech.com website
Dual-Lens Rear Camera
One of the great upgrades for the iPhone 13 models are its dual-lens rear camera, which include the following features: Smart HDR4, Photographic Styles, Night Mode, Deep Fusion, Portrait Mode, Portrait Lighting, True Tone Flash, Panorama and Burst Mode. Most of these features also appear in the iPhone 12 models but they are excellently improved for these newer iPhone 13 models.
For video recording, 4K video recording can be done with 24 up to 60 frames per second. 1080p and 720p are also available. Other video features include QuickTake, Time-lapse, Night mode Time-lapse, continuous autofocus mode, 3x digital zoom, and the option to take 8-megapixel photos when recording 4K video.
Battery Life
Battery life for most iPhones is a general issue since its inception, where androids seem to outperform them in terms of this. The iPhone 13 mini’s battery lasts for up to 1.5 hours longer than the iPhone 12 mini, and the iPhone 13’s battery lasts for up to 2.5 hours than the iPhone 12. Both iPhone 13 models support fast charging and can charge to 50 percent within 30 minutes using a Lightning to USB-C cable and a 20W power adapter.
Photo from techcrunch.com website
5G Connectivity
In addition to LTE networks, 5G is now supported in iPhone 13 models where the 5G modems will work with mmWave and Sub-6GHz. mmWave 5G are known to be the fastest 5G network but its short range is a down part, where it may be obscured by buildings, trees and other obstacles.
Other 5G connectivity features that are available in the iPhone 13 include: 5G Bands, LTE Bands, Data Saver Mode, and Dual Sim Support.
Bluetooth, Wifi, and U1
The Apple-designed U1 chip that enables the Ultra Wideband technology is available for the iPhone 13 models. The feature has been dubbed as a “GPS at the scale of a living room”, due to the part that indoor positioning and location tracking is now supported.
As for Bluetooth and WiFi, the iPhone 13 models support Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi 6 (802.11ax).
Photo from google.com
MagSafe
The MagSafe is indeed one of the innovative features Apple has introduced and this will be still included in their iPhone 13 models. A magnetic ring is designed to connect the MagSafe charger and other magnetic accessories which include casings, sleeves, snap-on wallets and many more.
The MagSafe charger snaps right onto the back of the iPhone 13 models and charges at 15W, which is higher than the 7.5W wireless charging available with Qi-based chargers.
Pricing and Availability
For the iPhone 13 Mini, it starts at $699 or roughly Php 34,950 while the iPhone 13 starts at $799 or Php 39,950, noting that there were no price increases for this year. Pre-orders for the new iPhone 13s started last September 17 where an official launch would follow on September 24, Friday.
Going on long rides with your friends and family is an experience that you should try at least once. It can be an intimate moment with your partner as the both of you hop on your motorcycle, or a fun bonding event with your barkada while listening to your favorite tunes in the car. Of course, part of the fun of travelling is the food you eat along the journey. It will surely make your trip memorable as you reminisce on the delicacies you encountered.
To help you find the best spots to get a quick snack or a full-fledged meal, here is a list of seven mountain cafés in Cebu that you should try for your next ride.
1. Heirloom Coffee and Kitchenette
Found in the mountains within Cebu City, Heirloom Coffee & Kitchenette is a terrific spot for coffee lovers and for healthy foodies and nature lovers alike. Treat your taste buds with the delicious food as you gaze to a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Cebu City’s mountains.
Photo from Heirloom Coffee & Kitchenette Facebook Page
Photo from Heirloom Coffee & Kitchenette Facebook Page
Other Information:
Operating hours: 8AM to 6PM daily, Thursdays to Sundays
Full details: https://sugbo.ph/2020/heirloom-coffee-kitchenette/
Note: They are still working on their parking spaces for four-wheeled cars, but parking spaces for motorbikes are provided.
How To Get There?
Exact Location: Udlom, Sinsin, Cebu City (near Sinsin Barangay Hall)
BY CAR: You have to take Talisay City access road going to Toledo Manipis Road. They are located near Sinsin Brgy. Hall in Pepito Farm, Cebu City.
2. Crate Café
Cebu has become a home to several coffee shops and cafes which have already invaded the city. Some of them have become prominent in the industry while some have just started bustling – a great example would be the Crate Café in the uphill Busay, Cebu City. They offer several espresso-based drinks and ample selection of pies, and cakes.
Exact Location: Busay, Transcentral Highway, Cebu City — just few meters away from Rumah Hotel, only 15 minutes away from the main road or JY Square Mall.
BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘Crate Cafe’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps.
BY HABAL-HABAL: Hire a habal-habal driver (motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at Crate Cafe. Estimated fare is ₱50-75 per person (max of 2).
BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but not all drivers may go there too far. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there. You can also rent a car via SquadPH Travels and avail the “9-in-1 Attractions Busay-Balamban Tour Package” for P999.
3. EVO Nature Camp
For those who seek a nature escapade, and who likes to meditate and find peace within themselves, connect with nature once more at EVO Nature Camp, a 4.5-hectare adventure camp found in the refreshing lands of the municipality of Balamban. Entrance fee is only 55 Pesos!
Full details: https://sugbo.ph/2020/evo-nature-camp/
How To Get There?
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu – few meters before Adventure Cafe; approx. 1 hour drive away from JY Square Mall or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral Highway.
BY VAN: From the Ayala Center Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is ₱120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at EVO Nature Camp in Brgy. Gaas.
BY CAR: Parking space available. Just search for “EVO Nature Camp” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps.
RENT A CAR / TOUR: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
4. Adventure Cafe Cebu
Introducing the first resto bar adventure café in the Philippines- Adventure Café at Gaas Balamban, Cebu. Release your stress away from the city and spend your escapade to the fullest while enjoying exhilarating adventures offered just within the café.
Read more about the place here: https://sugbo.ph/2019/adventure-cafe-cebu/
Exact location: Brgy. Gaas, Balamban, Cebu (30-45 min drive from JY square or Marco Polo via the scenic Transcentral highway).
PUBLIC: Take a V-hire from the Ayala Center Terminal going to Balamban via Transcentral highway route. Fare is P120 per person (one-way). Inform the driver to drop you off at Adventure Cafe.
PRIVATE: Parking space available. Just search for “Adventure Cafe” in Gaas Balamban via Waze or Google Maps.
RENT: Avail an Uphill Cebu Package Tour (9 Destinations in 1 Day) for only P999 at SquadPH Tours and Travels.
5. Outback Servo
This restaurant is rising above the competition with splendid food, a classy atmosphere, and a grand scenery. Located in the mountains of Ipil-Ipil, Babag 2, Outback Servo serves up divine dishes inspired by Australian brunches and Filipino breakfasts. Their unique spice is the mountain view that you can savor with any meal or snack!
Read more about the place here: https://sugbo.ph/2021/outback-servo/
Note: Outback Servo recommends guests to make reservations before visiting.
How To Get There?
Exact location: Ipil-Ipil, Barangay Babag 2, Transcentral Highway, Cebu City – 30 minutes from JY Square Mall.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Outback Servo” in Cebu City. Parking is available.
6. Charlie’s Cup
Charlie’s Cup is a roadside nature cafe hanging by the cliffs of Balamban. This treehouse-esque chill destination has a great unobstructed view of the verdant mountains and a very soothing breeze to complement the views.
Exact location: Brgy. Tabunan, Cebu City — just before the “Welcome to Balamban” sign, approx. 1 hour away from the city. It is located along the highway going to Balamban and just few meters from “21 Kilometers Coffee”.
BY VHIRE: From the Ayala Center Cebu PUV Terminal, take a v-hire going to Balamban. Tell the driver to drop you off at Charlie’s Cup in Brgy. Tabunan. Van fare is around P120 per head (one-way).
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Charlie’s Cup” in Cebu. Parking space is available upon arrival.
7. Serenity Mountain Café
Nestled in Busay, this quaint yet affordable cafe offers gorgeous mountain scenery as you and your friends enjoy either your coffee or your cuppas. Whether you are making a pit stop on a road trip or decide you would like to experience this cafe, you will surely be glad you visited.
Photo from Serenity Mountain Cafe Facebook Page
Photo from Serenity Mountain Cafe Facebook Page
Other Information
New opening hours: 11:30AM to 9PM daily (under community quarantine)
Full details: https://sugbo.ph/2020/serenity-mountain-cafe/
How To Get There?
Exact location: Sitio Tiguib, Brgy. Malubog, Busay, Cebu City — approx. 30 minutes away from the city proper or JY Square Mall.
BY CAR: (Best option) Parking space available. Just search for ‘Serenity Farm and Resort’ in Cebu Transcentral Highway via Waze or Google Maps.
BY HABAL-HABAL: (Not available under community quarantine.) Hire a habal-habal driver (motorcycle for hire) near JY Square Mall in Lahug, and inform him to drop you off at Serenity Farm. Estimated fare is ₱100 per person (max of 2).
BY TAXI: Hiring a taxi cab is possible but that can be hefty. Most of them won’t give you a metered reading system – hence, they’ll be offering you an estimated fare in going there. You can also rent a car via SquadPH Travels.
On Wednesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of September 29, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 82 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 420 new recoveries, and 14 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 101,332, while the active cases increased to 4,971 (from 5,239).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 40,285 (+34 new) – Total recoveries: 37,762 (+90 new) – Total deaths: 1,380 (+3 new) – Active cases: 1,143
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 13,313 (+35 new) – Total recoveries: 11,937 (+27 new) – Total deaths: 375 (+0 new) – Active cases: 1,001
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 11,912 (+13 new) – Total recoveries: 11,030 (+123 new) – Total deaths: 366 (+3 new) – Active cases: 516
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 35,822 (+82 new) – Total recoveries: 31,339 (+180 new) – Total deaths: 2,172 (+8 new) – Active cases: 2,311
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 4,971 (from 5,239)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 101,332 (+82 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 92,068 (+420 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 4,293 (+14 new*)
A total of 4,217 laboratory results were released for today.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
The pageant world is making a buzz again as the Miss Universe Philippines 2021 National Costumes have been revealed with its 30 lovely candidates.
And of course, our Cebuana beauties, as always, didn’t disappoint as they wowed us with both very different but jaw-dropping national costumes.
Each costume has different interpretations and inspirations so why don’t we dig deep into that and understand the meaning behind every stitch and every piece.
BAKUNAWA, the moon eater
Wearing the sash for Cebu City is the beautiful badass Ms. Beatrice Luigi Gomez and she went to that national costume slaying as she wears a stunning blue and green piece by fashion designer, Axel Que.
It was inspired by Filipino folklore of “Bakunawa, the moon eater”, a mystical creature whose tales have been passed down through generations from our ancestors.
The tale of the Bakunawa tells the story of the mythical beast believed to have caused lunar eclipses by devouring the moon, earning its notorious moniker: Moon Eater. The beast was driven away into the depths of the ocean and there bides its time, hoping for another chance at fulfilling its sinister desire.
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from Beatrice Luigi Gomez Facebook Page
Photo from Beatrice Luigi Gomez Facebook Page
Photo from Beatrice Luigi Gomez Facebook Page
With its more popular description of being a colossal Sea serpent/dragon. The costume’s color palette features cool specter-like hues which mimic the bioluminescence occurring in some marine life.
“The challenge in creating the whole piece was tying it together with the overall theme of Carnival Queen, which was expressed through the more traditional silhouette of the bodice and the hallmark terno sleeves, but done in a more armor-like fashion. “-Edward James Castro
The highlight of the national costume aside from its amazing color palette is its non-traditional which pushed the form further, making it appear larger and intimidating which was very on point to the inspiration.
The avant-garde type of trouser that could even pass for a high fashion pants was detailed with exaggerated micro pleated organza to simulate the fins of the legendary behemoth. It was definitely made with intricacy as the embellishments were strategically layered and positioned to imitate scales, both in texture and finish.
And that headpiece we all thought is a crown symbolizes a double halo to represent the celestial phenomenon of a lunar eclipse.
WEAVER OF HOPE
Representing the Cebu Province, Ms. Steffi Rose Aberasturi’s National Costume had a bit of a surprise effect. By holding the edges with its red color, it depicts the colors of Sto. Nino and when dropped turns into this beautiful golden piece designed by Malayka Yamas.
The national costume was named the “WEAVER OF HOPE” which represents how our hopes are woven and become strongly intertwined to hold all of us together – to keep looking forward to a brighter tomorrow.
Its inspiration came from two things which is Christianity and rattan weaving.
Christianity plays a very big part in every Cebuano’s life and this costume honors the celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. It honored the colors of one of the most well-known religious relics of the Philippines and patron of Cebu – The Señyor Sto Niño.
The designer also stated that as an advocate for empowering small businesses, the costume pays homage to a traditional Cebuano livelihood that’s been more profound during the pandemic- Rattan weaving.
Photo from Miss Universe Philippines Facebook Page
Photo from GMA News Facebook Page
Photo from GMA News Facebook Page
“During a trip to the north of Cebu, I, along with mother @malayka, had the chance to meet the rattan weavers of Sogod, whose stories of hope inspired me.
A legacy of immense craftsmanship that’s been continued from generation to generation has been revived and given a modern take by the new generation of weavers. This represents how Cebuanos honor the past by using it to move forward, adapt, and innovate a better future. “– Malayka Yamas
Sogod is very well known when it comes to rattan weaving where you see their works displayed along the road going to the Northern part of Cebu.
Both ladies are doing their best in representing our home so let’s not forget to give them our full support in everything that they’ll do in the MUP competition.
We have all loved the jolly bee growing up and even now. He’s a well-known figure here in the Philippines and in every Filipino’s heart.
Now, watching it spread its wings internationally and bringing the taste that is only Jollibee makes for an interesting thing to see as it tries to win the hearts of the locals around the world as well.
Jollibee has been redesigning its international branches to blend in and adapt to the locals in every area in the world and it might have designed its most aesthetic restaurant to date right there in Spain.
Located in the heart of Madrid in Puerto Del Sol square on the popular and historic Calle del Arenal, the branch will open on September 23 this year. It can accommodate up to 180 guests along with its outdoor seating and features its digital kiosks as well.
Photo from google.com
Photo from esquiremag.ph website
Photo from esquiremag.ph website
Photo from esquiremag.ph website
Photo from unsplash.com by Daniel Prado
It is a pretty grand scale for its first restaurant in Spain decked in bright, geometric and modern colors and design. It perfectly shows its island-theme from its high-ceiling dining hall, to seemingly tribal designed placemats up to its full-sized palm tree right at the center of the restaurant.
Paying homage to the Philippines, this beautiful restaurant is expected to be flocked with all the OFW’s in Spain and entice a few locals as well.
Jollibee Foods Corporation’s first restaurant in Spain is a part of its aggressive international expansion plan to open 50 stores in Europe in the next five years where they set aside a budget of €50 million (P2.9 billion).
It is sure a great way of reaching out to all Filipinos out there and introducing one of the Filipino taste to the world.
On Tuesday night, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH-7) released its official, consolidated data of the COVID-19 cases in the region as of September 28, 2021.
Today, the whole island of Cebu — Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City, and the Cebu Province — recorded 166 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, 349 new recoveries, and 9 new deaths. This brings Cebu’s total confirmed cases to 101,169, while the active cases increased to 5,239 (from 5,428).
Cebu City – Total confirmed: 40,251 (+43 new) – Total recoveries: 37,673 (+107 new) – Total deaths: 1,376 (+2 new) – Active cases: 1,202
Lapu-Lapu City – Total confirmed: 13,278 (+17 new) – Total recoveries: 11,910 (+29 new) – Total deaths: 375 (+1 new) – Active cases: 993
Mandaue City – Total confirmed: 11,902 (+20 new) – Total recoveries: 10,908 (+30 new) – Total deaths: 363 (+0 new) – Active cases: 631
Cebu Province – Total confirmed: 35,738 (+86 new) – Total recoveries: 31,161 (+183 new) – Total deaths: 2,164 (+6 new) – Active cases: 2,413
Summary of COVID-19 cases in Cebu:
Total Active Cases in Cebu: 5,239 (from 5,428)
Total Confirmed Cases in Cebu: 101,169 (+166 new)
Total Recoveries in Cebu: 91,652 (+349 new)
Total Deaths in Cebu: 4,278 (+9 new*)
A total of 3,932 laboratory results were released for today.
NOTES from DOH-7:
*As per DOH-7, the additional deaths in the report are not due to the overnight spike in deaths but due to more accurate data collection and validating efforts. Not all of those deaths occurred today but occurred more than a week ago.
Reports maybe subject to change as these claims undergo thorough validation by the local healthcare offices and health personnel.
Since vaccination has been on top of our list to help save lives during this pandemic, could an immunity in the nose help more?
According to the World Health Organization, clinical trials are underway to evaluate eight nasal spray vaccines. These will be tested to help stop the surge of COVID-19.
China’s Xiamen University, the University of Hong Kong and Beijing Wantai Biological Pharmacy are on their most advanced efforts for having completed phase-2 trials.
Photo from biospace.com website
Photo from theaseanpost.com website
Researcher Nathalie Mielcarek who is working with Lille Pasteur Institute said that “When the virus infects someone it usually gets in through the nose.”
Therefore, “The idea is to shut the door.”
According to the Scientific American article in March, developing nasal spray vaccines can have an immediate effect on the virus in an infected person’s mucus. There they trigger production of an antibody known as immunoglobulin A, which can block infection.
Photo from lifescienceindustrynews.com website
Photo from qps.com website
Photo from taiwannews.com website
Thailand, on the other hand, is to start their human trials on COVID-19 shots using the nasal spray.
“This overwhelming response, called sterilizing immunity, reduces the chance that people will pass on the virus,” said the article.
These shots offer strong protection against severe forms of COVID-19. However, they are less reliable in preventing the spread of the virusm
Stimulating immunity directly in the nose “lowers the risk of infecting other people”, said Mielcarek.
“From there you have less of the virus infecting the lungs and so fewer severe cases since the viral load is lower,” she added.
Gavi the Vaccine Alliance published an article in March about the vaccine’s advantages. This includes the fact that these sprays won’t need refrigeration and can be seld-administered.
“People would be able to self-administer them at home,” the article says, adding “they are likely to be more popular for the millions of people who don’t like needles”.
Emojis have quite wormed in into our lives that we cannot imagine now how it is to live without them. Whether we just feel like not replying or just to send shit or whatever emotion we want to convey there’s always an emoji to match it and if there’s none, well you might want to see this newly released set of emojis and you might find what you’re looking for.
Unicorn Standard & Unicode Consortium
Photo from techcrunch.com website
A little background fact, a “Unicorn Standard” contains unifying characters for modern and historic scripts, letters of various alphabets, punctuations, symbols, and emojis.
This standard is being maintained and published by a non-profit organization called the Unicode Consortium. They make sure that all of the world’s languages, including dead ones, can be translated through your keyboard and into your monitors or phone screens.
Unicode Consortium recently released 37 new emojis that will be available to your devices by the end of 2021 and earning the spotlight is the super relatable “melting face emoji”.
“Melting face emoji”
Photo from emojipedia.org website
The Melting Face may appear to be a new crowd favorite as this yellow smiley face melting into a puddle is a total mood.
It is a perfect representation of what most of us are feeling these days or this past years with the pandemic and everything that is going on. Its eyes and mouth slip down the face, yet still maintain a distorted smile. A face of “okay but not okay” to be precise.
It has been described to be used on the topic of extreme heat or to convey feelings of “embarrassment, shame, or a slowly sinking sense of dread”. Well, ain’t that us in a nutshell.
Unicode 14.0 emojis includes:
Photo from newsdirectory3.com website
Face with Open Eyes, which can be used to imply shock or surprise
Face with Peeking Eye for expressing disgust or fear
Dotted Line Face, which is an established comic-book trope for feelings of smallness or isolation
Face Holding Back Tears
Saluting Face
Hand gestures, which come in various skin colors
Photo from spot.ph website
Pointing finger
Heart hands
Handshake
Finger hearts (K-Pop)
Photo from spot.ph website
As with the drastic routine change, we have all experienced round the globe among other changes, the emotions are running high and plenty in each of us. These new emojis might just be what we need to fully express them.
Pfizer Vaccine by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech works on Kids age 5-11 according to Pfizer itself. Early results of their trial indicate the vaccine is safe for children and establishes a strong antibody response against the covid-19 virus.
Yes, we are moving further in our efforts of going back to our normal lives and leave this pandemic behind. While kids are known to be at a lower risk of severe illness or death than older people, the schools are slowly being opened to face-to-face classes which calls for the younger kids protection as soon as possible.
Pfizer said it studied the lower dose, for safety and effectiveness, in 2,268 kids in kindergarten and elementary. Giving a two-dose regimen of 10 micrograms administered 21 days apart, the shot was well tolerated according to both pharmaceutical companies.
Photo from nairametrics.com website
Photo from medpagetoday.com website
Photo from ft.com website
This trial used a smaller vaccine dosage, 1/3 of the 30-microgram dose used for older people.
It is not a scientific publication but is called an immune “bridging” study. It seeks to provide evidence that the younger children developed antibody levels already proven to be protective in teens and adults.
After their second dose, the children developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels just as strong as teenagers and young adults.
Known similar or fewer temporary side effects are:
Sore arms
Fever
Achiness
Photo from nbcnews.com website
Photo from reuters.com website
The study is still ongoing but once analysis of the trial is completed, Pfizer and BioNTech will submit the results to the Food and Drug Administration in US for review and possible emergency use authorization.
As the study is not yet completed and taking into consideration the authorizations from different sectors among different countries after their initial review to be requested, it would likely be available by the end of 2021 or early 2022.
Pfizer and Moderna are also currently studying even younger ones, toddlers in fact, down to 6-month-olds. Results are expected to come later in the year though.
