Dec 04 U.K. defends vaccine decision amid criticism it moved too fast By Danica Kirka, Associated Press U.K. regulators went on the offensive Friday to beat back criticism that they rushed their authorization of a COVID-19 vaccine, saying they rigorously analyzed data on safety and effectiveness in the shortest time possible without compromising the thoroughness of their… Continue reading
Dec 04 Among first acts, Biden to call for 100 days of mask-wearing By Alexandra Jaffe, Associated Press Joe Biden says he will ask Americans to commit to 100 days of wearing masks as one of his first acts as president. He stopped just short Thursday of the nationwide mandate he’s pushed before to stop the spread of… Continue reading
Dec 04 Fauci says 'yes right on the spot' to Biden By Associated Press Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s chief infectious disease expert, says there was never a question that he would accept President-elect Joe Biden’s offer to serve as his chief medical officer and adviser on the coronavirus pandemic. Continue reading
Dec 03 WATCH: Pence touts plans for quick vaccine distribution By Associated Press Pence said vaccines would be ready for distribution 24 hours after approval by the Food and Drug Administration, expected to happen in the coming weeks. Continue reading
Dec 03 Watch 3:23 A Brief But Spectacular take on raising a young daughter with a degenerative disease When Beth Papanastasiou's daughter Bella was born, she was diagnosed with a rare, degenerative genetic disorder and given 18 months to live. That was more than four years ago. Papanastasiou shares her Brief But Spectacular take on the important role… Continue watching
Dec 03 U.N. chief says vaccine can't undo damage from global pandemic By Edith M. Lederer, Associated Press Guterres accused some countries he didn't name of ignoring or rejecting the World Health Organization’s recommendations at the start of the crisis early this year, resulting in nations going in their own directions. Continue reading
Dec 03 This biologist is figuring out how to short-circuit sperm as birth control By Laura Santhanam Tens of millions of people use some form of birth control in the United States, and innovation could expand non-hormonal options for those who have been unable to use conventional means. Continue reading
Dec 03 WATCH: McCarthy expresses optimism over virus relief bill By Associated Press House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy is sounding a more optimistic tone about the chances for an end of the year COVID-19 relief package, telling reporters "there has been some movement this week."… Continue reading
Dec 03 6 tips for navigating ACA open enrollment if you're a COVID-19 'long hauler' By Julie Appleby, Kaiser Health News "Long haulers” — patients with lingering effects of COVID-19 — have joined the ranks of Americans with preexisting conditions. Continue reading
Dec 03 Pelosi, McConnell discuss COVID-19 relief as pressure builds By Andrew Taylor, Associated Press The conversation between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell adds to tentative optimism that a medium-sized aid package might break free after months of Washington toxicity and deadlock. Continue reading