So you've got COVID. Here's what to do
Omicron is still spreading and it's crazy contagious. Experts share 7 steps to deal with an infection, protect your household from getting sick and stay sane in the process.
Your Health
Heartbroken? There's a scientific reason why breaking up feels so rotten
Science writer Florence Williams experienced what felt like a brain injury when her husband left her after more than 25 years. Her new book is Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey.
Even if they can find a test, not everyone wants to know they have COVID
For some people, getting a positive coronavirus test could mean loss of income or other life disruptions. Doctors worry about growing disincentives to test and how this could prolong the pandemic.
How a hyperactive cell in the brain might trigger Alzheimer's disease
Microglia are amoeba-like cells that scour the brain for injuries and invaders. But sometimes the usually helpful cells go into overdrive and damage the brain, researchers say.
Vaccinate and test. That advice isn't much help to parents who have kids under 5.
Parents of children too young for vaccines are exhausted. As omicron surges, they keep trying to protect their kids. But some feel isolated and even forgotten by those who just want to move on.
There's one population that gets overlooked by an 'everyone will get COVID' mentality
The roughly 7 million Americans who are immunocompromised — including many people with disabilities — live with much higher risk of COVID-19, and near-constant vigilance.
The doctor didn't show up, but the hospital ER still billed $1,012
A toddler burned his hand on the stove. The pediatrician told mom over the phone to take him to the emergency room. But after a long wait for a doctor who never showed, they left. Then the bill came.
Why rapid COVID tests aren't more accurate and how scientists hope to improve them
Recent research and anecdotes suggest people are testing negative on rapid tests even after they have symptoms, then later testing positive. Here's what researchers think is going on.
We asked how you are finding joy in the pandemic. Here are 12 surprising ideas
It's been two long years of COVID gloom. But NPR's readers didn't let it keep them down. From cicada tracking to open-water swimming to roller-skating squads, you share how you bring the fun.
How are COVID-related expenses impacting your household budget?
PPE and COVID-19 tests are increasingly becoming necessities for U.S. households. But the costs add up — both in time and money. Tell us how the need for these items is affecting you.