The Delta Variant, Explained.

June, 2021

Nomenclature.

In May, the World Health Organization designated a naming convention for variants based on Greek letters. The first variant (originating in the U.K.), is now known as Alpha. The Beta variant originated in South Africa. The Gamma variant originated in Brazil. The Delta variant originated in India, and is also known as “B.1.617.2” (I did not choose this name ;).

Background.

The Delta variant was first detected in India, thereafter in the United Kingdom, and has now spread to over 80 countries. It is currently the dominant strain in both India and the U.K., and is swiftly spreading worldwide. In the United States, it currently accounts for 25-30% of our COVID-19 cases.

Transmission.

Delta has been identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as a “variant of concern”. Why? Because Delta is the most robust variant to date. Translation? It is more transmissible, and more pathogenic.

What can we Expect?

*See Blog section for complete article.

The Spanish Flu and 1920’s: Are we Repeating History?

June, 2021

As many of us reflect on this past year, we may find ourselves asking questions.

For instance, “What just happened?”; “What happens next?”; “Can history inform us of these answers?”

History may be repeating itself. Yet, until we truly understand history, we cannot predict our future. Thus, we turn to the Spanish Flu.

The Spanish Flu, Explained.

The Spanish Flu began in 1918. It infected one third of the world’s population. The sickness affected approximately 500 million people, and took the lives of approximately 50 million people over a two-year period.

The Spanish Flu was later identified as “H1N1”. H1N1 is a pneumonic flu virus. Sub-strains include the Avian and Swine flu strains. Thus, in the case of the Spanish Flu, many believe it originated in either birds (or pigs), and spread to humans. The Spanish Flu (like all pneumonic flu strains) infected the lungs in an overwhelming manner. It was spread via droplets, and through close proximity to others.

*See Blog section for complete article.

Will Home Prices Keep Rising?

May, 2021

Is it the right time to buy? Prospective buyers are on the receiving end of mixed messages this year. Interest rates are at record lows, yet housing prices are rising. So is it better to continue renting, or to purchase a home? The answer lies in your needs and your location.

Evaluating your needs. You may need more space for a home office, a separate fitness room, or want more outdoor space for entertaining (or play).

Employment changes. As many of us are working from home, we have seen a trend towards buying homes in suburban areas, coastal areas, and small towns. Urban living has become less appealing overall. Lifestyle has become a priority.

*See Blog section for complete article.