ANOTHER COVID RECORD BROKEN: NY records 74K positive tests, new all-time daily high
New York's COVID positivity rate currently stands at a jaw-dropping 22.05%.
Do at-home COVID-19 tests detect the omicron variant?
Government scientists have been checking to make sure rapid tests still work as each new variant comes along. This week, the FDA said preliminary research indicates they detect omicron, but may have reduced sensitivity.
CDC advises travelers to avoid cruises regardless of vaccination status
Even if you’re fully vaccinated, the CDC is advising against traveling on a cruise ship.
Chicago teacher quarantines in plane’s bathroom for 4 hours after testing positive for COVID-19
A woman who flew to Iceland last week said she quarantined in a bathroom for four hours after finding out, mid-flight, that she had COVID-19, according to reports.
COVID-19 leaves US children hospitalized in near-record numbers
During the week of Dec. 21-27, an average of 334 children with the coronavirus were admitted per day to hospitals, a 58% increase from the week before.
COVID, cold or flu? Pay attention to timing, symptoms, doctor says
With the rapid spread of the seemingly milder omicron variant, many have asked how to tell the difference between the virus and the common cold. One Tampa doctor explains how you can determine which illness you're dealing with.
What are some symptoms of the new omicron variant of COVID-19?
While omicron's severity is currently unknown, researchers have compiled a ist of the most commonly reported symptoms from people infected by the latest variant.
Calls to cancel New Years Eve celebration in Times Square, mayor says show will go on
Even as COVID cases rise, preparations continue in Times Square for the most famous New Year’s Eve celebration in the world. Now, there are calls to cancel the event as have officials in other major cities.
NY COVID cases shatter records, rise to nearly 70K
Positive COVID-19 tests in New York soared by a shocking 64.5% in a single day, as the omicron variant sets new records nationwide.
J&J COVID-19 booster found to cut omicron hospitalizations in South African study
Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 booster shot was found to reduce the risk of omicron-related hospitalization by about 85%, according to a South African clinical trial.
Science delivered but politics triumphed amid pandemic, WHO chief says
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is concerned that the delta and omicron variants will create a "tsunami" of new COVID cases and he criticized wealthier nations for allowing politics to exacerbate the pandemic.
COVID-19 postpones Westminster Kennel Club's annual dog show
The 144-year-old dog show attracts thousands of competitors from around the U.S. and is normally held in February, with semifinal and final rounds at Madison Square Garden.
Greece bans New Year's music at venues amid COVID surge
Music will be banned at all commercial venues in Greece for New Year's celebrations as part of new restrictions announced in response to a surge in COVID-19 infections fueled by the omicron variant.
Feds to open COVID-19 testing site in New Jersey
The CDC will set up a COVID surge testing site in New Jersey as part of its program to provide resources to underserved communities.
COVID surge: Omicron causing shortage of FDNY EMS staff
According to the FDNY, roughly 19% of New York City's EMS workers are out sick.
ANOTHER RECORD: Nearly 50,000 new COVID cases in NY
New York hit another pandemic-high number of positive COVID cases on December 24, as the omicron variant continues to drive a shocking increase in COVID cases nationwide.
Hundreds more flights canceled Sunday due to staff shortages
More than 700 flights entering, leaving or flying within the U.S. were called off Sunday.
NY cuts COVID quarantine period for essential workers
Essential workers who test positive for COVID-19, but are fully vaccinated, can now return to work in 5 days, as long as they’re asymptomatic, have no fever for 72 hours and wear a mask.
Angry crowds, arguments across NYC as demand for COVID tests rises
In some parts of the city, larger-than-expected turnouts for free at-home COVID testing kits led to angry scenes.
Calls for more COVID testing before NYC students return to school
Officials are urging the city to create a plan for all students and staff to take rapid tests the weekend before school resumes.