Latest KFF Health News Stories
CDC Confirms 4 In Michigan Got Covid From Mink In First ‘Spillover’ Event
The cases occurred in late 2020; three were previously reported. However, documents obtained in a Freedom of Information Act request from National Geographic revealed a fourth case that wasn’t disclosed by the CDC.
High Court Weighs In On Covid Vaccination Policies
The Supreme Court took action on two covid vaccination cases. In one, it ruled the Pentagon can take action against personnel who refuse a vaccine. In other, it declined to make any ruling on a lower court decision allowing an employer’s vaccination policy to remain in effect. Other news is on vaccination and mask mandates.
Cheers (And Disappointment) Greet Judge’s Mask Ruling
The White House said the decision was “disappointing” but also hinted it won’t challenge the ruling. Some airline passengers cheered when news broke that the mandate was lifted.
TSA, Amtrak, Most Airlines End Mask Enforcement After Mandate Nixed
After a federal judge struck down the CDC mask mandate on most public transit, the Transportation Security Administration, Amtrak and some companies have already halted requirements that passengers cover up. More are expected to follow suit.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: Lowering Insulin Cost Is Just The Beginning; Here’s How To Win The Opioid Battle
Editorial writers weigh in on these public health topics.
Different Takes: US Covid Response Was A Failure; Can China’s Covid Statistics Be Believed?
Opinion writers examine these covid and covid related issues.
Around The World, Number Of People Dying Of Covid At Its Lowest In 2 Years
Covid is killing fewer people than since early in the pandemic — though the data from official sources likely includes an undercount. New infections in Africa are also tumbling. But a report in The New York Times says India is attempting to block the WHO’s death count effort.
Synthetic Nicotine Falls Under FDA Scrutiny, Just Like Tobacco
Originally the Food and Drug Administration was mandated to control vaping products using tobacco-derived nicotine, but a new law lets it crack down on the synthetic type. A promising cancer vaccine, an app to treat opioid abuse, and the FDA’s “breakthrough” device list are also in the news.
Flu Rising Across The US, Especially In Central, South Regions
The data comes from the latest weekly report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meanwhile, a child in Michigan has died from flu, raising the number of pediatric flu deaths to 16 in the U.S. this year, and a county in New York is reporting a spike of over 1,500 flu cases within the last few weeks — later than usual in the season.
Financial Woes Drive Bright Health Group Out Of Six States
Meanwhile, in Northern California more than 8,000 Sutter Health nurses and workers planned a one-day strike today; in the Southeast the Department of Veterans Affairs has proposed replacing ailing health facilities; concerns about the federal physician malpractice database; and more.
A report in the Boston Globe says a survey found nearly 60% of Massachusetts families had lost at least one member during the pandemic, leading to a grief “epidemic” that impacts children. A Stateline report covers how schools are adapting to worsening teen mental health.
Masks Off, Masks On: Philly, NJ, NY Wrestle With Rules
Some businesses and residents are suing to halt Philadelphia’s mask mandate, which begins today. Also: advocates for those with immunodeficiencies call for a mask-only train car on NJ Transit; masks are still required in all Broadway theaters; and more.
White House Covid Czar Recommends Second Booster For People Over 60
The FDA has already authorized second booster shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for everyone 50 and older, but many older Americans are questioning whether they need one.
At Houston Facilities, Zero Covid Patients Is A Pandemic First
In encouraging news about the pandemic, the only covid patient in the Harris Health System was discharged Friday. But in Hawaii, the Department of Health has detected its first case of new omicron subvariant XE, East Coast cases are reportedly on the rise, and reinfections are a worry in Nevada.
Choose Your Own Covid Adventure: Booster, Mask Decisions Left To Public
With more tools available at this phase of the pandemic, government and public health officials have shifted away from setting guidelines on covid vaccines, booster shots and masks. Instead, individuals are urged to assess their own risk and decide on precautions. So even in the face of another viral surge, news outlets report that most Americans are choosing a path of least resistance — or apathy.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: Racial Health Inequities Harm Black Mothers; The Abortion Battle Rages On
Editorial writers tackle these public health issuses.
Opinion writers examine the following covid topics, as well as mental health in America.
New Jerseyans Will Be Able To Buy Recreational Pot From April 21
Meanwhile, the timeline for a U.S. weed legalization bill slipped but is said to be on track for introduction before the August Senate recess. In other news, Connecticut doctors call for Medicaid expansion for undocumented kids; Massachusetts issues policies for telehealth visits; and more.
