NJ urges COVID vaccine booster shots

Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Wednesday that he will soon end his regular COVID-19 pandemic briefings because of the overall progress against illnesses. But he and health officials are still urging residents to get boosted.

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations trending downward in US

Public health experts say they are feeling hopeful that more declines are ahead and that the country is shifting from being in a pandemic to an ‘endemic’ that is more consistent and predictable.

Newark extends mask mandate but eases proof-of-vax rule

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has extended the mandatory mask-wearing requirement for all indoor public facilities through at least Feb. 28. But if COVID numbers continue to decline, he will end the mandate after that.

NY towns considering secession over COVID mandates

Some towns in upstate New York opposed to mask mandates and other public health measures put in place during the pandemic are considering voting with their feet and switching counties.