The surgeon general's latest advisory highlights the youth mental health crisis NPR's Steve Inskeep talks to U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy about his advice for addressing challenges that worsened with the pandemic — including young people struggling with suicidal thoughts.
What has South Africa learned about the Omicron variant? NPR's Steve Inskeep talks to Dr. Arifa Parker, an infectious diseases specialist in South Africa, about the latest coronavirus variant.
Adult portable bed rails have been recalled after 2 people became entrapped and died In both incidents, officials say the bed rails were not securely attached to the bed. The two victims became entrapped between the product and their mattresses. Jonathan Franklin
'Trigger laws' are abortion bans ready to go if 'Roe v. Wade' is overturned More than 20 states have "trigger laws," which will ban or severely restrict abortion if Roe v. Wade is overturned. Other states are taking steps to protect abortion rights through legislation. Sarah McCammon
The lasting consequences of America's shift to using more contractors to fight wars Many people who fought and died on behalf of the U.S. during 20 years of war in Afghanistan were contractors, not troops. It's part of a change in how America fights wars, and it has consequences. Steve Walsh
New York York will have the nation's 1st vaccine mandate for private sector employers New York City Mayor Bill deBlasio has announced what he called a "pre-emptive strike" before the winter — a vaccine mandate for private sector employers. Quil Lawrence
Over a dozen COVID cases were found on a cruise ship that just docked in New Orleans At least 17 people on board the Norwegian Breakaway tested positive for COVID-19, including one probable case of the omicron variant. The cruise line said that all confirmed cases are asymptomatic. Rachel Treisman
These pork products are being recalled over possible listeria contamination Alexander & Hornung is recalling 17 different ham and pepperoni products over listeria concerns. Federal officials say customers should throw the food away — here's what to look for on the label. Rachel Treisman
Omicron variant detected in three Washington state counties Three cases of the omicron variant have been detected in Washington state, according to the state Department of Health. That includes a case in King County. Kate Walters
Life Kit: How to be a kind neighbor NPR's Life Kit has tips and trick for how to be a good neighbor. Diana Opong