Health

10175 Stories

Why rapid Covid tests aren't more accurate and how scientists hope to improve them

Recent research — and plenty of anecdotes — suggest some rapid tests may be less sensitive at detecting omicron if you don't have symptoms. Here's how researchers hope to make them more effective.
- Maria Godoy
We spend 12 million hours a week on the phone with health insurance

A health communications expert has developed a free online course to help people talk to those who are vaccine hesitant — and to fight misinformation with empathy.
- Anya Kamenetz
Seattle Schools warehouse workers drove hours through snow for 60,000 Covid test kits

The day after the snowstorm, which was two days after Christmas, Seattle Schools officials learned that 60,000 antigen test kits could be theirs.
- Isolde Raftery
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.
- Amy Isackson
Stress, uncertainty and isolation are common pandemic experiences. But is it trauma?

Stress, burnout. Uncertainty. Isolation... all common experiences in the pandemic. But is it trauma? Experts are debating the term, but it's clear a mental health crisis is looming.
- Kat Lonsdorf
The omicron surge has yet to peak in many areas of the U.S.

The massive U.S. omicron surge appears to be following the same pattern as other countries, with infections starting to peak and quickly recede. But cases are still spiking in some parts of the U.S.
- Rob Stein
There's now a phone line to order your free at-home Covid tests

The phone number — 1-800-232-0233 — follows the launch earlier this week of a federal website to order the tests.
- Benjamin Swasey
Coronavirus FAQ: What's the risk of catching omicron outdoors?

Previous versions of the coronavirus didn't transmit as easily outdoors thanks to airflow that dispersed viral particles. But what about the highly transmissible omicron variant?
- Sheila Mulrooney Eldred
Federal court blocks Biden's vaccine mandate for federal workers

A federal judge in Texas has blocked President Biden's vaccine mandate for federal workers nationwide. The requirement had been in place since November.
- Alana Wise
Washington state offers free at-home Covid tests

Starting Friday, Washingtonians can order free, at-home Covid tests online from the state Department of Health. Each household in Washington is eligible to receive one kit of the rapid antigen tests, available in packs of four to five tests. Officials say residents who order them can expect to receive them within two weeks.
- Liz Brazile

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