June

Viruses are known to constantly mutate and change, and the COVID-19 coronavirus is no exception. The Delta and Delta Plus variants of the virus have drawn considerable attention lately after becoming more predominant in the United States.

Casey Cegielski, the J.W. Woodrow, Sr., Professor in Systems and Technology in Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business, discusses the nation’s recent surge in ransomware, which has become a national security risk. According to a report, the U.S. suffered from roughly 65,000 ransomware attacks last year—most recently and notably the Colonial Pipeline, which temporarily shut down oil production on the East Coast. Cegielski has authored more than 60 research articles, focusing on cybersecurity and the inter-organizational use of cloud-based technologies.

With Naomi Osaka’s recent withdrawal from the French Open to focus on her mental health, the topic has moved to the forefront of public discussion. The 23-year-old’s bold stand has served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one’s mental health in addition to one’s physical health as a key to a balanced life.

During the first week in June, it was estimated that 40% of the U.S. population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and 60% have received one dose. The Biden Administration has set a goal of vaccinating 70% of the U.S. population by July 4, since in the region of 75-80% of our population should be immune to the predominant strain and variants of SARS-CoV-2 virus. Experience in South Africa, India and the European Union has demonstrated that a population with a high level of susceptibility and with an increasing incidence rate will result in the evolution of mutants. These may be more infectious and have greater pathogenicity than the original January 2020 strain, thereby delaying effective control of the pandemic.