Latest KFF Health News Stories
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Different Takes: Lessons On How Covid Got Out Of Control; Pros, Cons Of Vaccine Rollouts
Editorial writers focus on these pandemic topics and others.
Opinion writers weigh in on these public health issues and others.
Mexico President Says He Has Covid, Mild Symptoms
Reports are from Germany and other European countries disappointed by reports that fewer-than-expected doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine will be delivered this week; Japan’s herd immunity plans; and more.
Several States See Drop In Covid Cases
In other news, California’s statewide stay-at-home order is expected to be lifted today.
After Rise In Suicides, School District In Nevada Reopens
Meanwhile, the Chicago Teachers Union voted against reopening plans; the University Of Michigan shut down athletics; and more, as well.
Miami’s NBA Team Signs On Covid-Sniffing Dogs To Detect Sick Fans
The Miami Heat is still limiting capacity to 10 percent and will allow fans to take a rapid test before entering the arena if they’re uncomfortable around dogs. Covid news reports are on N95 face masks, and curfews. Reports look at the health benefits of avocados, as well.
Does Your Insurance Cover Medical, Dental — And Food? Increasingly, Yes
Next year, Medicare will start testing meal program vouchers for patients with malnutrition as part of a broader look at improving care and reducing costs. Private insurers are taking a more nuanced approach, as well, as the pandemic sends millions of Americans seeking help from food banks.
Paralyzed Mice That Received Cytokine Treatment Walked Again In Just Weeks
“With a relatively small intervention, we stimulate[d] a very large number of nerves to regenerate, and that is ultimately the reason why the mice can walk again,” the lead scientist from Germany’s Ruhr University Bochum told Reuters. Other news is on covid treatments, the 340B rule, lupus nephritis and more.
Facing GOP Resistance On Stimulus, Democrats May Use Reconciliation
President Joe Biden held a call with senators from both parties on Sunday to discuss his proposed $1.9 trillion coronavirus aid package. Meanwhile, Sen. Bernie Sanders says passing a bill through reconciliation, which only requires 51 votes to pass, is on the table if bipartisan support can’t be achieved.
CDC Says Anaphylaxis After Covid Vaccines Is ‘Rare Event’
Data shows the rates for severe allergic reactions to the Moderna vaccine are low, the CDC said in a new report. That’s consistent with their findings for the Pfizer-BioNTech shot.
While Guarding The Capitol, Nearly 200 Infected By Covid
Scores of U.S. Capitol Police officers and National Guard members who protected the Capitol Hill complex during and since the Jan. 6 riot have tested positive for the coronavirus.
In ‘Exceptional Situations,’ It’s OK To Mix Vaccines, Delay 2nd Dose, CDC says
But “every effort” should be made to ensure a patient receives the same vaccine, the updated guidance says.
‘I Can’t Tell You How Much Vaccine We Have,’ CDC Director Reveals
Biden administration health officials say what vaccine supply the U.S. does have is limited and the biggest hurdle to ramping up inoculation rates.
‘Parallel Data’ Given To Trump, Maybe From Atlas, Birx Says
Also, Dr. Anthony Fauci vented over the weekend about what it was like to work with former President Donald Trump.
Future Of Roe V. Wade Cloudy On 48th Anniversary
The White House said in a statement: ““The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to codifying Roe v Wade.” Meanwhile, anti-abortion activists are redoubling their legislative and judicial pushes in the states.
Worries Over New Strains Drive Biden To Reimpose Travel Bans
Non-U.S. citizens traveling from Brazil, the United Kingdom and 26 other European nations will not be allowed to enter the U.S. — restrictions that were previously in place until the last two days of the Trump administration. The Biden administration is also adding South Africa to the list.
Data Suggest Virus Variant Found In UK Is Deadlier Than Earlier Versions
The CDC is reviewing a British report that indicates the B.1.1.7 strain may be 30% more lethal. NIH Director Francis Collins and Dr. Anthony Fauci say more information is needed to know if its more lethal and contagious.
When’s Your Vaccine Time?: Most Will Wait For Several Months
Healthy younger people probably won’t get a chance for a dose until mid-summer, according to experts. Reports also look at people of color having to travel farther as well as other vaccine news.
Google, Walmart Step Up Efforts To Help Vaccination Effort
Google Maps will show vaccination locations and both Google and Walmart takes steps to help vaccinate more people. Meanwhile, there’s a scramble to get the limited supply of vaccines.
