Enjoy the Holidays, But Take a COVID Test First

[MUSIC PLAYING] SPEAKER: How does a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine work? COVID vaccines are now available. Some of the COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA vaccines, but what does this mean? mRNA vaccines are different from traditional vaccines. mRNA vaccines don’t expose you to any real virus instead, they’re made with messenger Ribonucleic Acid or mRNA. This is …

New Studies Suggest Omicron Infections Are Less Severe Than Delta Ones

Dec. 22, 2021 — People who get COVID-19 infections caused by the Omicron variant are less likely to need hospital care, compared with those infected by the Delta variant, according to two large new studies from the U.K. and South Africa. The findings, which were released ahead of peer review, add to previous glimmers of …

FDA Authorizes Pfizer Antiviral Pill for COVID-19

Dec. 22, 2021 – The FDA on Wednesday granted emergency use authorization of a new antiviral pills to treat people with symptomatic COVID-19. Pfizer’s ritonavir, name brand Paxlovid, can now be taken by patients age 12 and up who weigh at least 88 pounds. The antiviral is only for people who test positive for coronavirus, …

As Omicron Soars, Biden Announces Hospital Relief, Free Tests

Dec. 21, 2021 — With the Omicron variant of the coronavirus blazing across the United States, President Joe Biden offered reassurance on Tuesday to Americans who have followed public health guidance to get vaccinated and boosted, and delivered a stark warning to those who haven’t. “Because Omicron spreads so easily, we’ll see some fully vaccinated …

Are Cortisone Injections Good or Bad for Arthritic Knees?

By Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter TUESDAY, Dec. 21, 2021 (HealthDay News) — Cortisone injections have gotten a bad rap in recent years as a treatment for arthritis pain, because steroids are known to damage cartilage and could potentially cause the joint to further deteriorate. But a new study suggests that if used wisely, cortisone shots …

Americans Turning to Trendy Diets to Shed Pandemic Pounds

By Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter MONDAY, Dec. 20, 2021 (HealthDay News) — Americans in the prime of their lives are worried about the pounds they packed on during the pandemic and plan to do something about it in the new year, a new Harris Poll/HealthDay survey finds. Nearly 2 of …

Tips for Healthier Holiday Foods

The holiday season often means parties, celebrations, and festive foods — not to mention extra calories, sugar, and fats. But with a few smart substitutions, cooking methods, and new ingredients, it’s possible to enjoy your holiday fare without the guilt. Registered dietitians, cookbook authors, and food bloggers offer their top tips. Healthier Appetizers Grazing board. …

Pfizer COVID Vaccine for Younger Children Hits Snag

[MUSIC PLAYING] SPEAKER: How does a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine work? COVID vaccines are now available. Some of the COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA vaccines, but what does this mean? mRNA vaccines are different from traditional vaccines. mRNA vaccines don’t expose you to any real virus instead, they’re made with messenger Ribonucleic Acid or mRNA. This is …

COVID Cases Spike as Questions Remain About Omicron’s Threat

Dec. 17, 2021 — Top infectious disease officials expect a surge of COVID-19 cases after the holidays and say Omicron will soon take over as the dominant strain in the United States. The best way to stay protected is by getting vaccinated and boosted, they say. “For the unvaccinated, you’re looking at a winter of …

Biden Administration to Tackle Lead in Drinking Water

By Robert Preidt and Robin FosterHealthDay Reporter FRIDAY, Dec. 17, 2021 (HealthDay News) — In an effort to further lower lead levels in drinking water, the Biden administration on Thursday announced $2.9 billion in infrastructure bill funds for lead pipe removal and tighter lead limits. The new, tougher limits to be imposed by the Environmental …