Category: NPR

It takes time after vaccination for immunity to the virus to build up, and no vaccine is 100% effective. Plus, scientists don’t yet know if the vaccine stops viral spread. Here’s what’s known so far.

Three major changes are coming from the federal government, including new guidance to states urging them to allow anyone over 65 to get vaccinated.

Vaccinations around the U.S. got off to a rocky start. But in Wisconsin, Dr. Jeff Bahr of Advocate Aurora Health says he’s “very pleased” his system administered more than 30,000 doses in three weeks.

Many front-line health workers who have faced a perpetual lack of PPE and inconsistent safety measures believe the government and their employers have failed to protect them from COVID-19.

Technically, the only Tennesseans currently eligible to get the coronavirus vaccine are health care workers, long-term care residents, and people 75 and older. But don’t expect strict enforcement.

Tennessee has opened COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to anyone over age 75. But people under 75 are getting it, as health officials are not checking identification before administering the shots.

The plan, long endorsed by conservatives, would give the state broad flexibility in running its health insurance program for the poor, while capping annual federal funding for the program.

Experts argue that pushing out more COVID-19 vaccine doses to states sooner may be a good idea, even if it means there’s a chance some people’s second dose gets delayed.

With case and death counts still surging, the pressure is on to vaccinate as many people as possible. Here’s what it will take to get more Americans their shots, fast.

Democrats control the new Congress by such a slim margin that passing health laws will be daunting. Instead Biden may have to use executive authority to advance his health care vision.