Despite omicron, Ron DeSantis remains firmly against lockdowns and vaccine mandates Florida's governor is reacting to the omicron variant much differently than New York's. Messaging around how to respond has varied widely by state, depending on politics and recent COVID burdens. Greg Allen
What we know about the omicron variant The omicron variant of the not been found in the United States yet. Here's what's we known about it, how dangerous it's likely to be, and whether vaccines or new drugs will be effective against it. Michaeleen Doucleff
The omicron variant was in Europe a week before South Africa reported it The rapidly spreading variant was identified in retests of samples that were taken on Nov. 19 and 23 in the Netherlands, according to a Dutch health agency. Bill Chappell
African leaders condemn travel restrictions as omicron variant spreads globally African nations are bristling at the restrictions imposed on them by rich countries — and say they are harmful to local economies and discriminate against countries in the region. Joe Hernandez
New antiviral drugs are coming for COVID. Here's what you need to know The FDA is considering new pills that could treat people in early stages of COVID. Here's what to know about how they work, how effective they are and the impact they could make on the pandemic. Pien Huang
The omicron variant may be the most infectious one yet Scientists in South Africa say preliminary data suggests the omicron coronavirus variant is already widespread across southern Africa — and this happened in a very short period of time. Michaeleen Doucleff
Are you wearing the right mask? It comes down to fit and layers The answer: fit and layers. Wear a mask that fits, and that has two or more layers. Kate Walters
The U.S. restricts travel from 8 countries as omicron variant spreads President Biden has restricted travel from eight southern African countries in an effort to slow the spread of the omicron variant. Tien Le
Merriam-Webster's 2021 word of the year is, of course, 'vaccine' The word "vaccine" saw a more than 600% increase in lookups this year over last. In its announcement, Merriam-Webster noted that it's come to represent much more than just medicine. Rachel Treisman
The omicron variant is cause for concern — but not panic, Biden says President Biden said that while restrictions imposed on travelers from several nations in southern Africa would slow the variant's entry, the U.S. will eventually see cases. Brian Naylor