Author: Adeel Hassan
BA.2 Accounts for Over Half of New U.S. Cases, C.D.C. Estimates
Scientists have been keeping an eye on BA.2, one of three genetically distinct varieties of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus.
Some U.S. States Reduce Daily Covid Reports
Some scientists and health experts see the possibility that the first signs of a new surge could be missed, but others say metrics like hospitalizations and wastewater monitoring have become more relevant than daily reports.
W.H.O. Delays Assessing Russia’s Sputnik Vaccine Over Ukraine War
An official with the World Health Organization said “the assessment, along with inspections, have been affected.”
World’s Known Covid Death Toll Surpasses 6 Million
And stark vaccination disparities between countries remain, leaving the entire world vulnerable to the threat of a new, deadly variant.
C.D.C. Updates Contact-Tracing and Case Investigation Guidance
“The updated guidance is in response to changes in the nature of the pandemic and the increasing availability of new tools to prevent transmission and mitigate illness,” the agency said.
Maryland Lifts Statewide School Mask Mandate
The decision gives local school districts the power to decide whether to require face coverings.
As Ukrainians Flee Russian Assault, Coronavirus Rides Along
The fighting in Ukraine’s east is forcing a hurried mass migration that leaves little room for pandemic considerations.