An FDA panel supports Merck COVID drug in mixed vote
If the Food and Drug Administration authorizes use of the drug, called molnupiravir, it would be the first oral COVID-19 treatment that could be taken at home.
COVID
COVID hit 13 members of their family the first time. A year later it struck again
The second time Vanessa Quintero's family caught the virus, probably from her 8-year-old daughter, fewer people got sick. They and their doctors credit the protection of vaccination.
New coronavirus variant in South Africa raises concern
The World Health Organization is holding an emergency meeting on Friday to review the variant. While it's too soon to tell exactly how the new variant functions, virologists are rushing to learn more.
WATCH: Harvard-NPR panel on the fight to tame COVID
Watch an expert panel discuss the latest developments and challenges in the COVID-19 pandemic livestreamed at noon ET on Friday.
COMIC: If history is a guide, schools will start requiring COVID vaccines
The first vaccine required for school was for smallpox, over 200 years ago. And for decades, all states have required that kids be vaccinated against contagious diseases like polio to attend school.
The U.S. has new COVID vaccine rules for international travelers. Here's what to know
The requirements set by the Biden administration take effect Nov. 8 and cover approved vaccines, exceptions for the unvaccinated and protocols after arrival.
Parents should be patient about getting COVID vaccines for kids, White House says
There are fresh logistical challenges, warns the White House's COVID czar in an exclusive interview with NPR. For example, young children will be getting a smaller dose delivered via smaller needles.
NYC firefighters protest at the mayor's home over vaccine mandate as deadline looms
Firefighters and other municipal workers are protesting New York City's vaccine mandate, which takes effect Monday. If they don't have at least one dose by Friday, they will be put on unpaid leave.
Brazil senate wants Bolsonaro charged with crimes against humanity for COVID response
A Senate panel recommends a number of other charges against the Brazilian president, including inciting an epidemic. But the chances that Jair Bolsonaro will be indicted look slim.
What the U.S. can — and cannot — do for vaccine equity per the State Department
The U.S. has pledged to deliver 1.1 billion doses of COVID vaccines to countries in need. Billions more are needed. NPR interviewed the State Department's global vaccine coordinator to learn more.