Health

The U.S. birth rate began dropping years before the pandemic. Here's why

By Courtney Vinopal

Even as the U.S. economy turns a corner, several women told the PBS NewsHour that the pandemic exacerbated already-existing anxieties they had about raising children in America, and they’re not certain when they’ll feel equipped to support a family.

Chief of teachers union is 'all in' on full fall reopening

By Collin Binkley, Associated Press

The president of the American Federation of Teachers called Thursday for a full return to in-person learning in the fall, saying the union is "all in" on bringing students back to the classroom.

U.S. advisers endorse Pfizer COVID-19 shot for kids 12 and up

By Lauran Neergaard, Mike Stobbe, Associated Press

The younger kids in some places are already rolling up their sleeves. But much of the nation was waiting for Wednesday's recommendations from advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Schools ditch student mask requirements in growing numbers

By Jeff Amy, Lindsay Whitehurst, Associated Press

Where many see a continued need to protect children and teachers who aren't vaccinated against COVID-19, opponents argue that masks make students uncomfortable and mandates impinge on freedom.

WATCH: Biden urges kids 12 and above to get vaccinated

By Associated Press

Earlier in the week, the Food and Drug Administration cleared the expanded use of Pfizer's shots, citing evidence the shots worked as well in those 12 to 15 years old as those 16 and older.

COVID fears keep many Latino kids out of classrooms

By Heidi de Marco, Kaiser Health News

When faced with the choice of sending their kids back to school or keeping them in online classes, many Latino parents say their kids are safer at home.

U.S. COVID-19 deaths hit lowest level in 10 months

By Associated Press

The last time deaths were this low was early July, nearly a year ago.

WATCH: Biden meets with state governors to discuss vaccination programs

By Zeke Miller, Associated Press

President Joe Biden is highlighting new efforts to encourage Americans to get COVID-19 shots, including free rides to and from vaccination sites from ride-sharing companies Uber and Lyft.

WATCH: Dr. Walensky encourages youth to ask for vaccine

By Associated Press

The director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is "encouraging children to ask for the vaccine" after regulators on Monday expanded the use of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine to children as young as 12.

Pfizer COVID-19 shot expanded to U.S. children as young as 12

By Lauran Neergaard, Candice Choi, Associated Press

The Food and Drug Administration said Monday the shot is safe and offers strong protection for younger teens based on testing of more than 2,000 U.S. volunteers.