Do at-home COVID-19 tests detect the omicron variant?

Government scientists have been checking to make sure rapid tests still work as each new variant comes along. This week, the FDA said preliminary research indicates they detect omicron, but may have reduced sensitivity.

COVID-19 leaves US children hospitalized in near-record numbers

During the week of Dec. 21-27, an average of 334 children with the coronavirus were admitted per day to hospitals, a 58% increase from the week before.

COVID, cold or flu? Pay attention to timing, symptoms, doctor says

With the rapid spread of the seemingly milder omicron variant, many have asked how to tell the difference between the virus and the common cold. One Tampa doctor explains how you can determine which illness you're dealing with.

What are some symptoms of the new omicron variant of COVID-19?

While omicron's severity is currently unknown, researchers have compiled a ist of the most commonly reported symptoms from people infected by the latest variant.

Calls to cancel New Years Eve celebration in Times Square, mayor says show will go on

Even as COVID cases rise, preparations continue in Times Square for the most famous New Year’s Eve celebration in the world. Now, there are calls to cancel the event as have officials in other major cities.

NY COVID cases shatter records, rise to nearly 70K

Positive COVID-19 tests in New York soared by a shocking 64.5% in a single day, as the omicron variant sets new records nationwide.

J&J COVID-19 booster found to cut omicron hospitalizations in South African study

Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 booster shot was found to reduce the risk of omicron-related hospitalization by about 85%, according to a South African clinical trial.

Science delivered but politics triumphed amid pandemic, WHO chief says

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is concerned that the delta and omicron variants will create a "tsunami" of new COVID cases and he criticized wealthier nations for allowing politics to exacerbate the pandemic.

COVID-19 postpones Westminster Kennel Club's annual dog show

The 144-year-old dog show attracts thousands of competitors from around the U.S. and is normally held in February, with semifinal and final rounds at Madison Square Garden.

Greece bans New Year's music at venues amid COVID surge

Music will be banned at all commercial venues in Greece for New Year's celebrations as part of new restrictions announced in response to a surge in COVID-19 infections fueled by the omicron variant.

Feds to open COVID-19 testing site in New Jersey

The CDC will set up a COVID surge testing site in New Jersey as part of its program to provide resources to underserved communities.

ANOTHER RECORD: Nearly 50,000 new COVID cases in NY

New York hit another pandemic-high number of positive COVID cases on December 24, as the omicron variant continues to drive a shocking increase in COVID cases nationwide.

NY cuts COVID quarantine period for essential workers

Essential workers who test positive for COVID-19, but are fully vaccinated, can now return to work in 5 days, as long as they’re asymptomatic, have no fever for 72 hours and wear a mask.

Calls for more COVID testing before NYC students return to school

Officials are urging the city to create a plan for all students and staff to take rapid tests the weekend before school resumes.