COVID-19 deaths drop significantly in the U.S. as new health risks emerge

In 2023, COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. fell to the tenth leading cause of death, a significant drop from previous years. The mortality rate decreased by 68.9% compared to 2022, but COVID-19 remains a serious health concern. Research indicates that adolescents face a 55% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes after a COVID-19 infection. Additionally, severe COVID-19 has been linked to increased risks of depression and serious mental illness, particularly among unvaccinated individuals. New studies also explored vaccine safety, revealing higher rates of myocarditis and seizures in children post-vaccination. A weight-loss drug, Wegovy, showed potential in reducing COVID-related deaths among certain patients, though further research is needed to understand the mechanisms involved.