“Swiss same-sex couples have won the right to marry after voters overwhelmingly backed its legalization in a referendum. The vote was brought about by conservative politicians opposed to LGBTQ+ marriages.
The Alpine nation has now become the latest Western European country to recognize LGBTQ+ marriages.”
2. VA tells veterans discharged under 'don't ask, don't tell' they are eligible for all VA benefits
“The Veterans Affairs Department issued guidance stating military service members who were discharged because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status under the "don't ask, don't tell" policy are eligible for all Veterans Affairs benefits.”
Backdated with back pay I hope
3. Scientists develop insulin that can be kept without refrigeration
“A team of scientists from leading chemical labs in India have developed a thermostable variety of insulin that does not need refrigeration, TOI reported .
This is being hailed as a big breakthrough in scientific circles, as portability has always been a concern for insulin-dependent people.”
As a diabetic I am ecstatic!! One less thing to stress about. Think of how much longer we can survive during a zombie apocalypse!!
4. Pregnant Women Vaccinated Against COVID-19 Pass Protection to Their Newborns
“According to a new study by researchers from New York University Langone Health, babies born to women who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy were found to have protective antibodies at birth.”
5. EU proposes mandatory USB-C on all devices, including iPhones
“The European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, has announced plans to force smartphone and other electronics manufacturers to fit a common USB-C charging port on their devices. The rules are intended to cut down on electronic waste by allowing people to re-use existing chargers and cables when they buy new electronics.”
It'd also make it easier to ask for a charger to borrow. No more asking for a specific type and hoping someone has it!
6. Ireland: Over 90% of people aged over 16 are now fully vaccinated against Covid
“OVER 90% OF Irish people over the age of 16 are now fully vaccinated against Covid-19, the highest rate in the European Union, HSE chief executive Paul Reid has said.
The latest vaccine statistics show that over 7.1 million vaccine doses have been administered and more than 90% of people aged over the age of 16 are now fully vaccinated.”
7. This solar-powered fridge will make the COVID-19 vaccine accessible to remote communities
“UNICEF is building a global network of fridges and cold rooms—the cold chain—to make sure a vaccine stays effective as it’s transported to rural communities off the grid.”
That's it for this week. Until next week, stay safe and don’t forget to share this newsletter with your friends :)