Category: states

Will Labor Day Weekend Bring Another Holiday COVID Surge? Jury’s Out.

Epidemiologists are having a hard time predicting whether Labor Day will be like the Fourth of July and Memorial Day, when celebrations fanned the flames in coronavirus hot spots around the South and West.

As Threat of Valley Fever Grows Beyond the Southwest, Push Is On for Vaccine

Efforts are underway to bring to market a vaccine for valley fever, a fungal infection with COVID-like symptoms that occurs in the deserts of the Southwest. The illness is getting more attention as cases rise and a warming climate threatens to spread it through the West.

LA County Authorities Cautious Despite Declining COVID Numbers

The county, a hotbed of coronavirus infection in California, has seen a steady reduction in positive test results, new cases, hospitalizations and deaths over the past few weeks. But officials are concerned about public behavior over the Labor Day holiday weekend and wary of relaxing strictures too soon.

Watch: Florida Gutted Its Public Health System Ahead of Pandemic

KHN Midwest editor and correspondent Laura Ungar appeared on Spectrum News and Fox 35 Orlando to discuss cuts to Florida’s public health system that have hampered its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Health Officials Worry Nation’s Not Ready for COVID-19 Vaccine

As the nation awaits a vaccine to end the pandemic, local health departments say they lack the staff, money, tools ― and a unified plan ― to distribute, administer and track millions of vaccines, most of which will require two doses. Dozens of doctors, nurses and health officials interviewed by KHN and The Associated Press expressed their concern and frustration over federal shortcomings.

When the Pandemic Closes Your Gym, ‘Come for the Party, Stay for the Workout’

As gyms throughout New York City had to close because of the coronavirus pandemic, some trainers just moved outdoors to the parks.

Long-Fought Nurse Practitioner Independence Bill Heads to Newsom

The measure caps one of the most contentious health policy debates in recent memory, potentially altering how Californians get their medical care. Gov. Gavin Newsom has until the end of September to sign or veto it.

California Rx: State May Dive Into Generic Drug Market

California could become the first state to develop its own line of generic drugs under a bill approved Monday by the legislature. The measure heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for consideration.

How to Weigh Evacuation Options With Both Wildfires and COVID at Your Door

As the twin disasters of COVID-19 and fire season sweep through California, thousands of residents are weighing difficult options, pitting risk against risk as they decide where to evacuate. Amid a virulent pandemic, where can you safely relocate?

Opposition to Obamacare Becomes Political Liability for GOP Incumbents

Control of the U.S. Senate this election hinges on a handful of vulnerable GOP incumbents. Their opposition to the Affordable Care Act could be their undoing.