Latest KFF Health News Stories
More Americans Say They’ll Likely Remain Child-Free
44% of non-parents between 18 and 49 said they’re unlikely to ever have kids, a big jump from 2018’s 37% figure. Reports note the U.S. birth rate has declined for six years. In other news, the Washington Post says Facebook allegedly knew about racial bias in its algorithms.
Rights Groups Press U.S. For Waiver To Get Vaccine To Third World Nations
President Joe Biden reversed the previous U.S. position to endorse a waiver in May, but there has been little progress since then. European allies, however, remain opposed. Meanwhile, public health officials here continue to see a need for more access to at-home covid tests.
All Eyes Look To Senate Now After House Approves Massive Spending Bill
Among the many provisions in the $1.7 trillion funding are major expansions of health programs, including home health care, paid family leave, hearing coverage for Medicare beneficiaries and some drug pricing reforms. But the bill is likely destined for changes in the Senate.
Biden’s Doctors Declare He Is ‘Healthy, Vigorous’ And Fit For Duty
The president underwent a physical on Friday. His doctors say he is fine but noted that he has arthritis in his spine, some feet problems and gastroesophageal reflux that causes frequent coughing.
Covid Surging Nationally As 2021 Covid Death Count Passes All Of Last Year
Though there are a few weeks to go in 2021, the Wall Street Journal reports the U.S. death total for this year is already higher than last year’s. Cases are up 20% and there are worries the figures will rise higher with this week’s Thanksgiving gatherings.
Disney Suspends Vaccine Mandate For Florida Employees In Face Of State Law
Meanwhile, news outlets report on the federal covid vaccine rules’ impact on the transportation industry and military, as well as news from Kansas, Rhode Island, Virginia and Tennessee.
Every Adult In US Now Eligible To Get A Booster Shot
Federal health agencies authorized the additional covid vaccine half dose for all who are 18 or older. The recommendations say those 50 or older “should” get a booster, whereas younger adults “may” get one.
First Edition: November 22, 2021
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Editorial pages delve into telehealth and tackling racial inequities in health care.
Different Takes: Vaccine Ambassadors Prove Successful; Breaking Down Booster Questions
Opinion writers weigh in on these covid and vaccine topics.
Everyone In Austria Must Get A Covid Shot
The lockdown is the first in Europe since the spring. And the vaccine for-all mandate is the first on the continent. A fast-spreading delta variant in the U.K., partial lockdowns in Germany and Greece, syringe exports from India and more are also in the news.
Instagram’s Impact On Kids To Be Investigated By Coalition Of State Attorneys
Other state news stories report on the opioid epidemic, drinking water quality, vaping, Medicaid, cannabis and more.
Johnson & Johnson Reveals Its Drug-Development Plans
J&J’s overhaul will see it tackling conditions like lung cancer, eye disease, RSV and more. A top company scientist said J&J expects multi-billion-dollar income from new drugs by 2025. Separately, CVS will close 900 stores across the U.S.
Overcrowded Hospitals Linked To Excess Deaths In Pandemic Times
Over-capacity hospitals during the pandemic are linked to excess deaths. Anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell, caused by covid is studied.
People In Need Will Be Able To Text New Suicide Prevention Hotline
The FCC voted to include text messaging into the technology driving the 988 number which will arrive next year. The long wait to see a therapist, covid-related surges in helpline calls, pandemic-era mental health of Black Americans and more are also reported.
Black Americans More Likely To Die From Treatable Health Conditions
A new report from the Commonwealth Fund sees wide racial disparities in treatments leading to higher rates of death among Black people. The return of head lice, more problems with a sleep apnea device and that wasn’t deadly smallpox in those vials in the Pennsylvania lab.
House Passes $2 Trillion Spending Bill With Big Health Measures
Democrats passed the education, health care and climate bill with a slim majority today. Congressional divide may also nix any marijuana liberalization legislation.
Vaccinations Among Hospital Employees Stalled
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 70% of hospital health care workers are vaccinated against covid. The percentage is highest among those working in children’s hospitals and as low as 65% at hospitals in non–metropolitan urban counties. Also, more news on vaccine mandates.
Dr. Anthony Fauci recommends boosters for all adults although many states are already allowing it and urging it. Also, a new debate is emerging: is there a new definition for “fully vaccinated”?
FDA Approves Both Moderna, Pfizer Booster Shots For All Adults
The Food and Drug Administration authorized booster shots of the two mRNA covid vaccines approved in the U.S. for all adults 18 or older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention must still give its OK. In other vaccine news, news outlets report on efforts to free-up intellectual property rights.
