Coronavirus vaccine news, updates and information for 6-24-2021

<p>This is Vaccine 411, the latest coronavirus vaccine information for June 24th, 2021.</p><p><br></p><p>The New York Times reports a researcher in Seattle uncovered deleted files that show 13 partial genetic sequences for some of the earliest cases of COVID-19 in Wuhan. They don’t reveal the true origin of the virus but do firm up the idea it was circulating earlier than the outbreak at the Wuhan seafood market. About a year ago 241 genetic sequences from coronavirus patients went missing from an online database maintained by the National Institutes of Health. The researcher could find no scientific or procedural reason why the sequences were deleted.</p><p><br></p><p>No need to worry about getting shot number three yet. The CDC said there’s no evidence yet to suggest a booster shot is needed. They did caution that could change as the pandemic evolves. If cases go up in fully vaccinated people or if waning antibody or T cell levels are identified, that could signal a booster need.</p><p><br></p><p>A new study estimates life expectancy in the U.S. went down nearly two years between 2018 and 2020, mostly due to COVID-19. It’s a decrease not seen since World War II. The declines were most pronounced among minority groups. In 2018, average life expectancy was about 79 years. It’s now around 77.</p><p><br></p><p>If someone tells you they wouldn’t take the vaccine for a million dollars, believe them. The Ohio vaccine lottery started off with promising results, but it ended yesterday with the state still unable to crack the 50% vaccination threshold.</p><p><br></p><p>For some, and we’re not judging, it’s the surest sign yet the pandemic is over. The New York City Health Department released new guidelines encouraging everyone to get back out there and resume sexual activity — if you’re fully vaccinated. It also gave its okay to return to sex parties, sex with strangers, and encounters with multiple sex partners.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>In the United States cases were down 25%, deaths are down 20%, and hospitalizations ar