Morning Breakouts

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Traces Of Virus Detected In Water; Rapid Spit Tests Slow In Coming

Morning Briefing

There is no evidence water can spread the virus, but researchers say knowing where to look for the virus is key in dealing with future infections. News is on testing, contact tracing and more, as well.

An Unexpected Non-Perishable: Signed Trump Letter Inside Food-Aid Boxes

Morning Briefing

The letters are sparking outrage among advocates, and the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank is removing the letters. Other health news about the Trump administration is on visitors at federal prisons; the Navy SEAL ethos; and checking the facts on President Donald Trump’s COVID program for those who are uninsured.

House Passes $2.2 Trillion Stimulus Bill That’s Likely DOA

Morning Briefing

“Today’s package is another partisan exercise that will never become law,” said Rep. Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat from Virginia who voted no. Of the
Republicans, none voted for the plan.

What’s Next? Expect A Strange Election To Get Stranger

Morning Briefing

Concerns are raised that Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and others at this week’s debate could have been exposed to the virus. But the news of President Donald Trump’s COVID-19 infection will shake up the 2020 race in many other ways as well.

Well Wishes, Prayers Flow In For Trumps From Leaders Across US, World

Morning Briefing

As President Donald Trump joins the list of world leaders who have contracted COVID, sympathy and hopes for a quick recovery were expressed by U.S. lawmakers from both sides of the aisle as well as global heads of state and other public figures.

The President’s Health And His Control of Government Explained

Morning Briefing

The White House physician says that President Donald Trump will be able to carry out his duties in isolation. But if he were to become severely sick, attention will focus on the role of Vice President Mike Pence — who tested negative for COVID-19 Friday morning — as well as administration officials and national security advisers.

Who Could Trump Have Exposed? Tracing The White House Outbreak

Morning Briefing

News outlets detail the activities of President Donald Trump over the past week, during which he could have been contagious. And questions are raised about why the president proceeded with his Thursday schedule even after it was revealed that White House aide Hope Hicks tested positive.

Donald Trump Tests Positive For Coronavirus, Is In Isolation

Morning Briefing

President Donald Trump announced in a late-night tweet the he and first lady Melanie Trump both have COVID-19. The news came hours after the president attended a campaign rally and the revelation that adviser Hope Hicks had also tested positive. The Trumps are now isolated at the White House.

First Edition: Oct. 2, 2020

Morning Briefing

Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.

Editor’s Note:

This week KHN launched Episode 1 of our first long-form podcast, “No Mercy.” We take you into the lives of rural Americans when their town’s only hospital shut down. The upheaval created involves more than just health care. Listen, you’ll be hooked.

Alabama Apologizes To ‘Fifth Girl’ In 1963 Church Bombing For Inflicting Pain, Suffering

Morning Briefing

Sarah Collins Rudolph, 69, was 12 when a bomb planted by the KKK tore through 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham. Her sister and three other young girls were killed. Rudolph survived but lost an eye. She says medical bills and trauma have haunted her ever since.

Chilling Out: Breathing Exercises Go Mainstream Amid Spike In Anxiety

Morning Briefing

Doctors tell physicians and patients that a kind of deep breathing called “box breathing” is known to reduce stress. Other COVID reports are on deafness and missionaries. Also, in the news: the passing of an HIV hero, the loss of a baby, breast cancer, exercise routines and a documentary on dementia, as well.

Pennsylvania School Officials Accused Of Covering Up Lead, Asbestos Contamination

Morning Briefing

The Associated Press reports that starting in 2016, officials in the Scranton School District were repeatedly told about dangerous lead levels in drinking water in at least 10 schools but didn’t disconnect tainted water fountains, according to a grand jury presentment released Wednesday.