Category: NPR

Many localities require a negative coronavirus test for various activities, such as traveling or visiting an older relative. But finding a test with a quick enough turnaround can be challenging.

People are worried that the virus could be spread by air conditioning systems. Here’s what researchers do — and don’t yet — know.

Experts look into a new study that claims wearing a neck gaiter may be worse than no mask at all. And they discuss other face coverings such as goggles and plastic face shields.

While most people who die from COVID-19 are over 65, health care workers who die are often younger. Here are stories of some who died in their 20s, leaving shattered dreams and devastated families.

Las Vegas is on shaky footing as it reopens with one of the nation’s highest infection rates. An NPR analysis shows the city could run into trouble with hospital capacity if cases keep climbing.

California’s public health director has resigned after revelations of an extensive backlog of untested coronavirus test kits. More than a quarter-million tests there are still awaiting processing.

NPR’s Ari Shapiro talks with public health officials in California and Texas about the challenges their contact tracers have faced, as they try to control coronavirus spread in their communities.

In Harris County, Texas, about 25% of people are “absolutely unwilling to share anything,” says a local health department epidemiologist. Misinformation is one reason for the mistrust, officials say.

The National Virtual Medical Orchestra brings together health care workers and gives them a creative outlet during the pandemic.

Labor advocates say the lack of enforceable federal standards to ward off the coronavirus allows farmers to prioritize the harvest over worker safety.