Omicron Variant: Booster shots needed, CDC studies show

Newly released studies indicate that available vaccines are less effective against omicron than earlier versions of the coronavirus, but also that boosters significantly improve protection.

NY COVID numbers plunge again

The state's rolling seven-day case average is down 47.1 percent from last week, while new cases per 100,000 residents are declining in every one of the state's 10 regions.

COVID Burnout: Coping with pandemic-related stress

The American Psychological Association's new research shows burnout and stress are at all-time highs across professions. COVID fatigue is a big factor in that.

Mask enforcement a problem for some Long Island schools

Some teachers at Connetquot High School are blaming the district and school board for not enforcing the indoor mask mandate.

Doomsday Clock at 100 seconds to midnight on its 75th anniversary

The Doomsday Clock — a metaphorical clock that illustrates how close we are to destroying ourselves — has been at its closest time to midnight for the past two years. What will it take to "turn back" the hands of time?

COVID-19 detector: Wearable ‘Fresh Air Clip' can detect virus, study finds

Researchers at the Yale School of Public Health developed an easy-to-clip-on device called the ‘Fresh Air Clip’ that can help detect low levels of SARS-COV-2.

Pfizer pills effective against omicron, vaccine-maker's studies show

Pfizer Inc. said laboratory testing showed its COVID-19 pill Paxlovid appears to be effective against the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

Unemployment claims climb to 286,000, the most since October

Jobless claims rose for the third straight week — by 55,000 to 286,000, highest since mid-October, the Labor Department reported Thursday.

COVID-19: Europe considers new strategy of accepting the virus

The idea to deal with COVID-19 in Europe is to move from crisis mode to control mode, approaching the virus in much the same way countries deal with flu or measles.

NJ requiring vaccination for health care workers, ending test option

The order means that health care workers who are unvaccinated will have until Jan. 27 to get their first shot and until Feb. 28 for the second.

Folk singer Hana Horká dies after catching COVID on purpose

Czech folk singer Hana Horká has died after intentionally allowing herself to become infected with COVID-19 rather than get vaccinated, her son says.

Remote job listings in New York City skyrocket

The number of job listings in New York City advertising remote work has nearly quadrupled in just the last year.

NY Gov. Hochul proposes $216 billion budget

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is proposing to increase aid to schools and school programs by $2.1 billion. Her budget plan includes investments in childcare and afterschool programs, an increase to the Tuition Assistance Program, and even a rainy day fund.

'Like witnessing a miracle': Georgia woman gives birth after nearly 5-month battle with COVID-19

Sheenah Berry didn't think she needed the COVID-19 vaccine until she got pregnant. Then, before she could get her shots, the Rex, Georgia woman caught the coronavirus that would hospitalize her for more than 4 months.

COVID-19 smell and taste loss may have genetic link, study suggests

Researchers are trying to figure out why some COVID-19 patients lose their sense of taste and smell, and a new study suggests it may be because of a genetic link.