This pandemic is like war, and federal, state and local health officers are leading the U.S. response. Yet unlike war heroes, who are lionized, they are facing unprecedented attacks and death threats.
Category: NPR
What A Nasal Spray Vaccine Against COVID-19 Might Do Even Better Than A Shot
A vaccine against the coronavirus needs to keep people from getting very sick and dying. But preventing the spread of the disease is also important, and vaccines delivered by nasal spray may do that.
‘Radical’ COVID Testing Plan Could Offer A ‘Return To Normal,’ Journalist Says
Atlantic journalist Alexis Madrigal says millions of at-home saliva tests for COVID could be the key to a safe reopening — even if the tests are less accurate than the traditional PCR tests.
CDC Changes Testing Guidelines To Exclude People With No COVID-19 Symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has changed its coronavirus testing guidelines, raising questions about whether the move was done to reduce testing.
FDA’s Hahn Apologizes For Overselling Plasma’s Benefits As A COVID-19 Treatment
The Food and Drug Administration’s chief said Sunday the therapy reduces deaths among COVID-19 patients by 35%. On Monday he apologized, acknowledging that statistic greatly exaggerates any benefit.
Veteran’s Appendectomy Launches Excruciating, Months-Long Battle Over Bill
An uninsured Colorado man who had appendicitis owed $80,232 after two surgeries. After months of negotiating with the hospital, he still owes far more than most insurers would pay for the procedures.
HHS Chief On The Use Of Convalescent Plasma For COVID-19 Treatment
NPR’s Ari Shapiro talks with Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar about the Food and Drug Administration allowing the use of convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19.
A Filipina Nurse On Working On The Front Lines Of The Pandemic
Nurses are among the Philippines’ most sought-after exports. One front-liner in New York City has won over colleagues with a morale-boosting performance and has mentored health care workers back home.
HHS Chief Alex Azar Defends Authorization Of Plasma To Treat COVID-19
NPR’s Ari Shapiro talks with Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar about the Food and Drug Administration allowing the use of convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19.
Another COVID-19 Medical Mystery: Patients Come Off Ventilator, But Linger In A Coma
Doctors are researching why some patients remain unconscious for days or weeks, even after sedating drugs are withdrawn. They also worry that these patients aren’t being given time to recover.
