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Researchers reported for the first time that a genetic biomarker may be able to help predict the severity of food allergy reactions. (Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 9/20)

Researchers identified two randomized, controlled trials and six retrospective studies involving patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. The antiviral combination nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (Paxlovid) was tied to lower rates of COVID-19 hospitalization (eg, 0.7% vs 1.2%; moderate certainty of evidence [COE]) and all-cause death (eg, <0.1% vs 0.2%; moderate COE). Molnupiravir, an antiviral, was linked to a higher recovery rate (31.8% vs 22.6%; moderate COE) and faster recovery (9 vs 15 median days; moderate COE) but didn't affect all-cause death or serious adverse events. (Van Beusekom, 9/19)

A study by scientists in the United Kingdom provides some new insight into how syphilis—including antibiotic-resistant strains—is spreading in England. (Dall, 9/18)