PARSIPPANY — To support a United Way of Northern New Jersey initiative designed to make childcare services more available and affordable, especially for families living paycheck-to-paycheck, Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) and New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy teamed up Wednesday.
They visited the Parsippany Childcare Center to tout United in Care, a four-year pilot project that is recruiting home-based childcare providers as partners in Sherrill’s 11th District, which includes much of Morris County and extends into suburban Essex County.
United Way recently received $1.1 million from Congress to expand the program, designed to increase access to childcare, beginning with what they call “ALICE” (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households.
Those funds came from the House appropriations bill for fiscal 2022.
“High quality, affordable and flexible childcare for all working parents is absolutely critical to our state’s economic recovery,” said United Way of Northern New Jersey CEO Kiran Handa Gaudioso.
About United in Care
According to United Way research, 37% of the nearly 22,000 families with children in the 11th District were considered “ALICE,” or in poverty, and struggled to afford basics pre-pandemic.
United In Care was conceptualized during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its launch in 2020, the pilot has established alliances in other childcare areas of need across the state in Hudson, Warren, Gloucester and Camden counties.
“It really has turned out to be an incredibly tough couple of years for so many families,” Sherrill said of the COVID-19 pandemic. “But what has been a bright spot for me has been how our federal state and local governments have come together to make sure we have been taking care of our families. And one of these areas has been childcare.”
The Parsippany Child Day Care Center will serve as the anchor for the pilot’s shared-services model, which seeks to maintain and expand the existing childcare infrastructure.
Portions of the district still suffer from a scarce supply of childcare, according to Childcaredeserts.org.
They hope to recruit up to 10 registered home-based childcare providers with help from Child & Family Resources of Mount Arlington. Through the pilot, these local small businesses will access free resources, expertise and technical support.
United In Care is designed to also improve the quality of life for childcare workers in the program, many of whom are ALICE essential workers and represent growing small businesses in the community.
The project is currently looking for home-based childcare providers to join the 11th District alliance. Interested business owners can contact Susan.Cohen@UnitedWayNNJ.org or call her at 973-220-9494. Providers can also call Child & Family Resources at 973-398-1730.
Costly burden of childcare
Sherrill, a mother of four, talked of earning less at her full-time job than she was paying in childcare.
“My husband asked if I could get a less-expensive hobby than my job,” she said.
The costly burden of childcare is harder for lower-income families and women in particular.
“We now know if a woman leaves the workforce at age 26, even for just five years, that’s a 20% hit on her lifetime earnings,” Sherrill said.
Referring to U.S. childcare as “a broken system,” Murphy said United in Care can be “a role model for the rest of the country.”
This is an itch that certain escape rooms seem to be able to scratch, depending on their set dressing. Or, there wasn’t a lot, until Warner Bros. made an announcement that a beloved Stephen King story-turned-film is coming to Las Vegas to bring some ancient evil to the Strip. Warner Bros clearly hasn’t forgotten about all the money it made when it released the Andy Muschietti-helmed adaption of Stephen King’s “It: Chapter 1” back in 2017.
LUMBERTON — More than 100 pounds of raw marijuana and edible products, nearly 50 packets of heroin, over a pound of psychedelic mushrooms, and close to a quarter-million dollars in cash were seized as the result of an investigation into what the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office said was an illegal marijuana dispensary located in a Route 38 strip mall.
The prosecutor’s office on Wednesday also disclosed the arrests of and charges against five people, identified as two owners and three employees of the retail store operating as Skraptyques, adjacent to a pizzeria, dance studio, and other businesses.
The marijuana edibles were sold in counterfeit packages, according to the prosecutor’s office, resembling snack foods like Cheetos, Life Savers, Nerds, and Skittles.
Prosecutor Scott Coffina said such packaging makes those cannabis products attractive and dangerous to children when brought into a home, and that the operations conducted inside Skraptyques breached the limits of what will eventually be New Jersey’s legal recreational marijuana marketplace.
According to the prosecutor’s office, the investigation found that customers entering Skraptyques would be scanned in by an armed guard and have their cell phones taken before being allowed access into a secure back room where the marijuana, edibles, and mushrooms were available via cash transaction.
Materials were seized from the business, the Mount Holly home of owners Mathew Quinn and Crystal Cain, a Mount Laurel storage facility, and four vehicles.
Mathew Quinn
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Quinn, 44, was charged with first-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, second-degree possession of psilocybin mushrooms with intent to distribute, second-degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, and third-degree fortifying a controlled dangerous substance manufacturing or distribution facility.
Crystal Cain
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Cain, 30, was charged with first-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, second-degree possession of psilocybin mushrooms with intent to distribute, second-degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, third-degree possession of heroin, third-degree fortifying a controlled dangerous substance manufacturing or distribution facility, and a disorderly persons offense of possession of drug paraphernalia.
Marion Huff
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Marion Huff, 26, of Florence was charged with first-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and second-degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance.
Nicole Colley
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Nicole Colley, 31, of Mount Holly was charged with first-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, second-degree possession of psilocybin mushrooms, and second-degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance.
Perry Brown
Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office
Perry Brown, 55, of Morrisville, Pa., who prosecutors said provided security at the business, was in possession of a firearm at the time of his arrest and was charged with first-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, second-degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, second-degree possession of a firearm while committing a controlled dangerous substance crime, and fourth-degree possession of large capacity magazines.
All five people were taken into custody, then released following their initial court appearances.
A trip to New Jersey doesn’t have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.
From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it’s a great workout.
Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners’ suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.
If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.
Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.
You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.
Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.
Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it’s probably best to save your hike for another day.
I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:
Every NJ city and town’s municipal tax bill, ranked
A little less than 30 cents of every $1 in property taxes charged in New Jersey support municipal services provided by cities, towns, townships, boroughs and villages. Statewide, the average municipal-only tax bill in 2021 was $2,725, but that varied widely from more than $13,000 in Tavistock to nothing in three townships. In addition to $9.22 billion in municipal purpose taxes, special taxing districts that in some places provide municipal services such as fire protection, garbage collection or economic development levied $323.8 million in 2021.
Update: NJ arrests in Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot
A year later, more than 20 people from New Jersey have been charged with involvement in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Every time we look up at the sky, we see these huge clouds that are so far away, but now we can make smaller clouds right in front of us. Join Shreya, the MoleCOOL Scientist (and dedicated teen volunteer from Central New Jersey!) to enjoy learning about how clouds are made in the sky and how they form in a jar!
This fun STEM program is offered by Verona Public Library and will be held virtually via Zoom on Monday, April 18th at 1:30 p.m. (the last day of Spring Break!) This program is intended for students in grades 3 through 6, but all who are interested in learning about clouds are welcome! Please register in advance to get the Zoom link. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/clouds-vpl
Every time we look up at the sky, we see these huge clouds that are so far away, but now we can make smaller clouds right in front of us. Join Shreya, the MoleCOOL Scientist (and dedicated teen volunteer from Central New Jersey!) to enjoy learning about how clouds are made in the sky and how they form in a jar!
This fun STEM program is offered by Verona Public Library and will be held virtually via Zoom on Monday, April 18th at 1:30 p.m. (the last day of Spring Break!) This program is intended for students in grades 3 through 6, but all who are interested in learning about clouds are welcome! Please register in advance to get the Zoom link. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/clouds-vpl
So the big news is that Phil Murphy is willing to take another look at the controversial gender curriculum that he okayed and put into place to start this September.
The new education standards that were slated to begin this fall include “the range of ways people express their gender and how gender role stereotypes may limit behavior.” So many parents on both sides of the political spectrum complained about it to their legislators that he simply had to back down at least a little and agreed that he would “entertain” some changes.
Now, If something is even too radical for Phil Murphy, enough for him to actually backpedal a little on it, it definitely makes me wonder how bad it really is.
And while the entire thing is way out of bounds of a public education system, and in my opinion only belongs in the family sphere, one part of this particular lesson plan, which is based on the state curriculum standards, sums up the entire problem with it: It’s going to confuse kids more than even if they woke up one day and felt confused all by themselves.
It’s this: (To put into context, this is a lesson plan that an advocacy group proposed for the second grade. Kids here are 7 and 8)
“…this lesson refers to “girls” and “boys” when identifying body parts. The use of a binary construct of gender as well as using gender (boys and girls) rather than the more accurate biological sex (male and female) is purposeful given the developmental stage of students. Lessons in higher grades use more precise language and begin to introduce a broader concept of gender. This lesson does, however, acknowledge that “there are some body parts that mostly just girls have and some parts that mostly just boys have. Being a boy or a girl doesn’t have to mean you have those parts, but for most people this is how their bodies are.” And, “Most people have a vulva and a vagina or a penis and testicles but some people’s bodies can be different. Your body is exactly what is right for you.”
seb_ra
seb_ra
Huh?
I barely understand this. And I’ve got several years over these kids.
Let’s assume that we are all OK with the idea of teaching gender issues to young kids (I’m not writing this to debate that). But if there was one thing that stood out to make you question whether this whole thing is productive or confusing it’s that little snippet of word goulash.
It’s not worth it to spark anxiety in the vast majority of kids who are not going to wake up one day and realize they are trans, just to assuage a couple of kids who might. Let those kids parents deal with their own challenges.
Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Judi Franco only.
You can now listen to Dennis & Judi — On Demand! Hear New Jersey’s favorite best friends anytime, anywhere and any day of the week. Download the Dennis & Judi show wherever you get podcasts, on our free app, or listen right now:
New Jersey’s new legislative districts for the 2020s
Boundaries for the 40 legislative districts for the Senate and Assembly elections of 2023 through 2029, and perhaps 2031, were approved in a bipartisan vote of the Apportionment Commission on Feb. 18, 2022. The map continues to favor Democrats, though Republicans say it gives them a chance to win the majority.
The FBI is warning of an increase in sextortion attempts involving teen boys in New Jersey.
Sextortion is a crime where an adult predator convinces a child to share sexually explicit photos or video, then threatens to post the content online unless the child sends more images or money.
The FBI Newark Field Office says in most recent cases, teenaged boys between the ages of 14 and 17 are being targeted in New Jersey and are urging parents to closely monitor who your kids are talking to online.
While not mentioning any specific cases, the FBI says any gaming platform, social media site or smartphone apps that allow interactive communication could put your child at risk.
Agents are warning that parents may unwittingly expose their own kids to child predators, by sharing too much personal information on their own social media accounts.
FBI.gov
FBI.gov
The FBI is providing the following tips to protect you and your children online:
Be selective about what you share online, especially your personal information and passwords. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you or your children.
Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.
Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that a person is who they claim to be.
Be suspicious if you meet someone on a game or app and they ask you to start talking to them on a different platform.
Encourage your children to report suspicious behavior to a trusted adult.
Talk to your child about the risks and dangers of sharing sexually explicit images or videos.
If you think your child may have been exposed to a child predator or has been the victim of sextortion, contact the FBI at www.fbi.gov or your local law enforcement. You can also contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (1-800-the-lost or Cybertipline.org).
The FBI urges parents not to delete anything relating to the potential crime until police are able to review it and to be truthful about any encounters that may have happened. The details may be embarrassing, they say, but are necessary to locate the offender and bring him or her to justice.
Every NJ city and town’s municipal tax bill, ranked
A little less than 30 cents of every $1 in property taxes charged in New Jersey support municipal services provided by cities, towns, townships, boroughs and villages. Statewide, the average municipal-only tax bill in 2021 was $2,725, but that varied widely from more than $13,000 in Tavistock to nothing in three townships. In addition to $9.22 billion in municipal purpose taxes, special taxing districts that in some places provide municipal services such as fire protection, garbage collection or economic development levied $323.8 million in 2021.
School aid for all New Jersey districts for 2022-23
The state Department of Education announced district-level school aid figures for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, March 10, 2022. They’re listed below, alphabetically by county. For additional details from the NJDOE, including specific categories of aid, click here.
How the world saw New Jersey — 1940s to 1980s
This is how New Jersey saw the world from 1940-to 1980. All these photos are from AP and Getty publications, meaning they were used in a magazine or newspaper. There has been plenty of inventions and history made in New Jersey. Check the photos below.
State and federal health are closely monitoring what has been a slow rise in the number of New COVID-19 cases, concerned about another post-holiday spike.
However, unlike in the past two years, there appears to be a much more measured approach to imposing new restrictions or mandates.
The New Jersey Department of Health released new COVID forecast models this week, and they do show a rise in cases after the Easter, Passover and Ramadan holidays.
Even with the predictive modeling, just how big of an increase is not clear. It could anything from a slight uptick to a sharp spike.
None of the models show the kind of dramatic increases New Jersey saw after the Christmas and New Year’s holidays at the end of 2021.
In the worst case scenario, there would be rapid increase in new COVID cases by the end of this month and peaking in the second week of May. Models predict 3,800 cases and 1,200 hospitalizations.
That would be a three-fold increase in current numbers, but still far below the 33,000 cases and more than 6,000 hospitalizations during the omicron surge in January.
State health officials, reacting to the new predictions, say even in the worst case scenario, it would not put an extreme stress on New Jersey hospitals.
The numbers are being driven by an offshoot on the omicron COVID variant that is highly contagious, but does not cause more severe illness.
Gov. Phil Murphy has repeatedly said he does not foresee imposing any new restrictions, including a renewed mask mandate, and instead residents will have to learn to live with the virus similar to the flu.
That’s a significant shift in policy. Murphy was among the first governor in the nation to announce a lockdown in the early stages of the pandemic, and continued to impose or extend restrictions as state metrics moved higher. He was among the last to lift mask mandates, including mandatory face coverings in school.
Even with COVID cases and the state’s rate of transmission rising in recent weeks, there have been no reports of a spike in hospitalizations or severe disease.
Part of the reason for that is New Jersey’s high vaccination rate.
New Jersey has administered nearly 14 million doses of COVID vaccine. 6,840,819 people who live, work or study here have received their full initial doses. The demand for booster shots has been much less at about 50% of those who completed their initial regimen.
New Jersey’s metrics are following a pattern similar to that of neighboring states and the U.S. as a whole.
The Biden administration announced this week that the federal mask mandate was being extended on trains, planes and busses for another two weeks as health officials monitor COVID cases.
In Philadelphia, the indoor mask mandate has been reinstated.
While it is possible new restrictions could be imposed in New Jersey in the coming weeks, it seems unlikely.
Gov. Murphy issued a new executive order this week clarifying that healthcare workers and others who work in congregate settings are not required to get a second COVID booster as a condition of employment.
NJ county fairs make a comeback: Check out the schedule for 2022
UPDATED 4/10: A current list of county fairs happening across the Garden State for 2022. From rides, food, animals, and hot air balloons, each county fair has something unique to offer.
(Fairs are listed in geographical order from South NJ to North NJ)
These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey
A trip to New Jersey doesn’t have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.
From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it’s a great workout.
Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners’ suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.
If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.
Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.
You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.
Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.
Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it’s probably best to save your hike for another day.
I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:
School aid for all New Jersey districts for 2022-23
The state Department of Education announced district-level school aid figures for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, March 10, 2022. They’re listed below, alphabetically by county. For additional details from the NJDOE, including specific categories of aid, click here.
Healthcare workers and others that work in so-called “congregate settings” will not have to receive a second booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine to keep their jobs.
Gov. Phil Murphy issued a new executive order on Wednesday that clarified the definition of “up to date” to include only one booster dose and to clarify that a second booster dose is not required.
In a statement, Murphy urged healthcare workers to voluntarily get the second dose, as he said he did himself, but is not making it a requirement of employment.
“Even though it is not required, I encourage New Jerseyans who the CDC has advised would benefit from their second booster to roll up their sleeves and give themselves an added dose of defense against COVID-19, like I did yesterday,” Murphy said.
Under Executive Order No. 294: “A covered worker is considered “up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations” if they have received a primary series, which consists of either a 2-dose series of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or a single dose COVID-19 vaccine and the first booster dose for which they are eligible, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.”
The clarification comes just days after the April 11 deadline for healthcare workers to prove they had gotten boosted, or risk losing their jobs.
The numbers here in New Jersey and from around the nation are clear – getting boosted is directly linked to less-severe COVID-19 symptoms and illness and far lower rates of hospitalization and death. Our steadfast vaccination efforts have effectively lowered the risk we face in New Jersey, and as we navigate the path to normalcy, we must continue to do all we can to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities. – Gov. Phil Murphy
It is unclear how many healthcare workers have refused to get the extra dose of COVID vaccine.
New Jersey hospitals had reported better than 90% compliance with the original order requiring full vaccination, but The New Jersey Hospital Association says they do not have figures on booster compliance.
In the general population, 6,840,819 people who live, work or study in New Jersey have received the first full course of vaccination. However, less than half have received even one booster dose.
A trip to New Jersey doesn’t have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.
From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it’s a great workout.
Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners’ suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.
If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.
Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.
You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.
Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.
Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it’s probably best to save your hike for another day.
I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:
Every NJ city and town’s municipal tax bill, ranked
A little less than 30 cents of every $1 in property taxes charged in New Jersey support municipal services provided by cities, towns, townships, boroughs and villages. Statewide, the average municipal-only tax bill in 2021 was $2,725, but that varied widely from more than $13,000 in Tavistock to nothing in three townships. In addition to $9.22 billion in municipal purpose taxes, special taxing districts that in some places provide municipal services such as fire protection, garbage collection or economic development levied $323.8 million in 2021.
School aid for all New Jersey districts for 2022-23
The state Department of Education announced district-level school aid figures for the 2022-23 school year on Thursday, March 10, 2022. They’re listed below, alphabetically by county. For additional details from the NJDOE, including specific categories of aid, click here.
NEW JERSEY — The most up-to-date information on coronavirus news impacting New Jersey. You can find additional resources and coverage on our coronavirus page.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was extending the order, which was set to expire on April 18, until May 3 to allow more time to study the BA.2 omicron subvariant that is now responsible for the vast majority of cases in the U.S.
Murphy tests positive for COVID
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy tested positive for COVID-19, officials announced on Thursday, March 31. He’s asymptomatic and feeling well, but was set to cancel all events and isolate for five days.
Moderna’s low-dose COVID vaccine works for kids under 6, company says
Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine works in babies, toddlers and preschoolers, the company announced on March 23 — and if regulators agree it could mean a chance to finally start vaccinating the littlest kids by summer.
Moderna asks FDA to authorize 4th dose of COVID shot
Drugmaker Moderna asked the Food and Drug Administration on March 17 to authorize a fourth shot of its COVID-19 vaccine as a booster dose for all adults.
WHO now tracking hybrid COVID-19 variant: ‘deltacron’
Scientists are learning more about a hybrid variant of COVID-19 that has been detected called “deltacron.” Deltacron was first reported early this year, when it was thought to be a co-infection of the omicron and delta coronavirus variants (meaning people were possibly infected with two variants at once). Now, researchers believe it’s a single, hybrid variant that combines genes from both delta and omicron.
TSA extends mask mandate on planes, public transit
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is developing guidance that will ease the nationwide mask mandate on airplanes, buses and other mass transit, according to a U.S. official, but the existing face-covering requirement will be extended through April 18.
NJ drops school mask mandate but not all districts end requirement
As New Jersey health officials continue to report progress in beating back the latest wave of COVID-19 infections, Gov. Phil Murphy on March 7 allowed schools to drop the mask mandate. However, not all school districts across the state opted to drop masking rules.
Gov. Murphy ends Public Health Emergency 2 years after NJ’s first COVID case
On March 4, 2020, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy received word that the state recorded its first case of COVID-19. He recalled the day on Friday, March 4, exactly two years later, during what he said was his last in-person COVID-19 briefing.
What the CDC’s new ‘Community Level’ tool means for your county
Most Americans live in places where healthy people, including students in schools, can safely take a break from wearing masks under new U.S. guidelines released Friday, March 4.
Murphy dropping NJ schools mask mandate
While COVID numbers continue to decline in New Jersey, Gov. Phil Murphy announced an end to the state’s mask mandate for public schools. The governor said students and school staff can go maskless beginning March 7. The statewide mandate has been in effect since the start of the academic year in September.
4th COVID shot: Who will need another booster soon?
As COVID cases caused by the omicron variant finally start to wane in the U.S., is it time to look ahead to the next variant? And will we need another booster shot to protect us from it?
Pfizer asks FDA to allow COVID vaccine for kids under 5
Pfizer on Tuesday, Feb. 1, asked the U.S. to authorize extra-low doses of its COVID-19 vaccine for children under 5, potentially opening the way for the very youngest Americans to start receiving shots as early as March.
Newark University Hospital gets military aid amid COVID surge
Gov. Murphy: NJ schools could ditch masks before end of academic year
As New Jersey’s COVID numbers start to slowly drop, Gov. Phil Murphy predicted Thursday, Jan. 20 that schools in the Garden State could reach a point before the end of this school year where masks are no longer required.
CDC encourages more Americans to consider N95 masks
U.S. health officials on Friday, Jan. 14, encouraged more Americans to wear the kind of N95 or KN95 masks used by health care workers to slow the spread of COVID-19. Those kinds of masks are considered better at filtering viruses from the air. But they previously were in short supply, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials had said they should be prioritized for health care workers.
Murphy reinstates Public Health Emergency for NJ as COVID spreads rapidly
Gov. Phil Murphy renewed his Public Health Emergency and State of Emergency declarations for the Garden State on Tuesday, Jan. 11. The executive order allows state agencies and departments to use resources to assist in the battle against COVID-19, according to a release from the governor’s office.
NJ COVID surge, pandemic recovery top priorities for Gov. Murphy in 2022
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy delivered his State of the State address on Tuesday, Jan. 11, as the Garden State continued to grapple with another wave of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.
“Our state remains on a war footing against a virus that has now taken on a new form. Omicron is doing its best to stop us in our tracks and push us back. We will not let it,” Murphy said.
FDA shortens Moderna booster wait time to 5 months
The agency announced it amended its emergency use authorization for the Moderna vaccine to allow adults to get a booster dose a month earlier than previously.
Officials, including Peter Marks, director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, cited the highly transmissible omicron variant as reasoning for the update.
The booster wait times for those who received the Johnson & Johnson (two months)or the Moderna vaccines (six months), have not changed.
Additionally, the CDC also recommended that moderately or severely immunocompromised children 5 to 11 years old receive an additional, third dose of the Pfizer vaccine 28 days after their second shot.
NJ COVID hospitalizations soar
COVID-19 hospitalizations in New Jersey have blown passed the peak number reported during last winter’s surge, state Health Department data showed on Monday, Jan. 3. There were 4,715 people hospitalized on Sunday, Jan. 2. By comparison, the peak daily number of hospitalizations during last winter’s surge was 3,873.
NJ first lady positive for COVID; Gov. Murphy tests negative
New Jersey’s first lady Tammy Murphy tested positive for COVID-19 on a rapid antigen test, a spokesperson said on Sunday, Jan. 2. Gov. Phil Murphy and the rest of his family tested negative, but will continue to test regularly in the coming days, the spokesperson said.
NJ cities tighten COVID restrictions with mask, vaccine mandates
As COVID cases continue to surge across New Jersey, the cities of Hoboken and Paterson enacted new indoor mask mandates. Meanwhile, Newark geared up for a new vaccine mandate for indoor dining and entertainment venues.
Paterson schools go remote after winter break amid COVID surge
As New Jersey continues to see a startling spike in COVID-19 cases statewide, the Paterson school district announced on Wednesday, Dec. 22, that students will start 2022 remotely. They were initially expected to return to classrooms on Jan. 4, however given the spike in COVID cases, they will learn remotely from Jan. 4 through Jan. 17. School buildings will reopen on Jan. 18.
NJ, NY CityMD locations temporarily close while demand for testing grows
Newark issues indoor mask mandate in public spaces to curb COVID uptick
Folks in Newark will need to mask up before they enter indoor public spaces under an executive order signed on Monday, Dec. 19, by Mayor Ras Baraka. The indoor mask mandate was issued as the state and city continue to see a concerning spike in COVID-19 cases, spurred by the omicron and delta variants.
Biden pledges 500M free COVID-19 tests to counter omicron
According to the company, the currently authorized booster dose increased omicron-neutralizing antibodies approximately 37-fold, compared to pre-boost levels.
Breakthrough COVID infections may create ‘super immunity’
The U.S. death toll from COVID-19 topped 800,000 on Dec. 14, a once-unimaginable figure seen as doubly tragic, given that more than 200,000 of those lives were lost after the vaccine became available last spring.
Additionally, the TSA will extend the requirement to wear a mask on planes, trains, subways and other public transportation hubs including airports and bus terminals through the winter.
Scientists call omicron variant ‘most mutated’ version of virus
There’s one thing we keep hearing from the scientists who’ve gotten a close look at the omicron version of the virus: It’s really mutated. More mutations don’t necessarily make a virus more dangerous, but viruses evolve over time to increase their chance of survival, which can be bad for humans.
First omicron variant case confirmed in NJ, Murphy says
Gov. Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said New Jersey’s first omicron case was confirmed on Friday, Dec. 3, in a fully vaccinated woman who visited New Jersey from Georgia.
Omicron COVID variant identified in California; 1st known US case
The first known case of the omicron variant of COVID-19 was identified in California, the White House and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Dr. Anthony Fauci said the person was a traveler who returned from South Africa on Nov. 22 and tested positive on Nov. 29.
US panel backs first-of-a-kind COVID-19 pill from Merck
The Food and Drug Administration panel voted 13-10 that the antiviral drug’s benefits outweigh its risks, including potential birth defects if used during pregnancy.
How to pronounce the new COVID-19 variant
Omicron, the latest COVID-19 variant of concern designated by the World Health Organization, gets its name from a letter in the Greek alphabet. But unlike the alpha or delta variants before it, omicron might not roll off the tongue so naturally to English speakers.
Rising concerns over omicron variant
Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said he expects COVID cases to rise until at least the new year, and he’s asking people to remain vigilant over the holiday season as both New Jersey and New York closely monitor for the first cases of the omicron variant.
Omicron variant prompts new US travel ban on South Africa, other nations
5 things to know about omicron, the new COVID ‘variant of concern’
The announcement of a COVID-19 variant called omicron by scientists in South Africa, where it was first detected, has sent governments and financial markets around the world reeling. Click here to learn more about what experts know about the new “variant of concern.”
What is this new omicron COVID variant in South Africa?
South African scientists have identified a new version of the coronavirus that they say is behind a recent spike in COVID-19 infections in Gauteng, the country’s most populous province. It’s unclear where the new variant actually arose, but it was first detected by scientists in South Africa and has also been seen in travelers to Belgium, Botswana, Hong Kong and Israel.
CDC approves expanding COVID-19 vaccine boosters to all adults
The U.S. on Friday, Nov. 19, opened COVID-19 booster shots to all adults and took the extra step of urging people 50 and older to seek one, aiming to ward off a winter surge as coronavirus cases rise even before millions of Americans travel for the holidays.
Pfizer agrees to let other companies make its COVID-19 pill
Pfizer said it would grant a license for the antiviral pill to the Geneva-based Medicines Patent Pool, which would let generic drug companies produce the pill for use in 95 countries, making up about 53% of the world’s population.
Getting a COVID vaccine before the holidays? Here are some key dates to know
Time is running out if you plan to be fully vaccinated against COVID by the holidays. Click here for the deadlines to be fully vaccinated before each holiday.
US lifts nearly 20-month international travel ban
More than a year and a half after COVID-19 concerns prompted the U.S. to close its borders to international travelers from countries including Brazil, China, India, South Africa, the United Kingdom and much of Europe, restrictions are shifting to focus on vaccine status.
Bans on travel from specific countries ended on Nov. 8. The U.S. will allow in international travelers, but they must be vaccinated — with a few exceptions.
The U.S. also reopened the land borders with Canada and Mexico for vaccinated people. Most trips from Canada and Mexico to the U.S. are by land rather than air.
US gives final clearance to COVID vaccine for kids 5 to 11
U.S. health officials on Nov. 2 gave the final signoff to Pfizer’s kid-size COVID-19 shot, a milestone that opens a major expansion of the nation’s vaccination campaign to children as young as 5.
The Food and Drug Administration already authorized the shots for children ages 5 to 11 — doses just a third of the amount given to teens and adults. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention formally recommends who should receive FDA-cleared vaccines.
Vaccinated just as likely to spread delta variant within household as unvaccinated: study
People who have received COVID-19 vaccinations are able to spread the delta variant within their household just as easily as unvaccinated individuals, a new study published on Oct. 29, shows.
Child tax credit 2022: What we know so far
As inner-party conflict continues to shave off elements of President Joe Biden’s sweeping domestic policy package, there may be good news for parents. While it’s unclear what the ultimate bill will include, Democrats arrived at a framework Thursday, Oct. 28, that included a one-year extension of the expanded child tax credit.
Moderna says its low-dose COVID shot safe, effective for kids 6 to 11
FDA says Pfizer COVID vaccine looks effective for young kids
Federal health regulators said late Oct. 22, that kid-size doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine appear highly effective at preventing symptomatic infections in elementary school children and caused no unexpected safety issues, as the U.S. weighs beginning vaccinations in youngsters.
NJ among top vaccinated states in U.S.
New Jersey is among the top 10 states in the country with the highest COVID-19 vaccination rates at 74%. Helping to lead the charge is Paterson, which has a 90% vaccination rate.
COVID vaccine mandate for state workers, teachers begins
Many state employees returned to in-person work on Oct. 18, the same day Gov. Phil Murphy’s requirement for them to either be vaccinated against COVID-19 or submit to regular virus testing went into effect. The vaccine or test mandate also applies to teachers in New Jersey.
New COVID safety guidance for the holidays released by the CDC
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention released updated COVID-19 safety guidance for the holiday season on Friday, Oct. 15, including getting vaccinated, wearing a mask indoors if you’re not vaccinated and avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.
Rutgers team tries to understand ‘brain fog’ COVID connection
Dr. William Hu, the Chief of the Division of Cognitive Neurology at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, is leading a team trying to figure out what brain fog is and how it’s connected to COVID-19.
FDA endorsement essentially calls for Johnson & Johnson to be 2-shot vaccine
An FDA panel unanimously recommended a Johnson and Johnson booster vaccine on Friday, Oct. 15. The terms of the endorsement essentially call for the J&J COVID-19 vaccine to be a two-dose shot, rather than the one-dose shot for which it’s been known since it first got emergency use authorization last spring.
The panel called for a second shot to be available to people 18 and older, at least two months after the first shot.
FDA panel recommends Moderna booster shot, but the process isn’t over
A panel of medical experts affiliated with the Food and Drug Administration endorsed a COVID vaccine booster from Moderna on Thursday, Oct. 14. The panel recommended a half dose as a booster.
Vice President Kamala Harris visits NJ day care, vaccination site
Vice President Kamala Harris made a stop in New Jersey on Friday, Oct. 8, to discuss the state’s latest vaccination efforts. She visited a day care center to highlight child care provisions in the president’s spending proposal as well as a vaccination site at Essex Community College.
Children will feel impact of pandemic on mental health for years: UNICEF report
UNICEF released a critical report on Friday, Oct. 8, which found that children and young people could feel the impact of the pandemic on their mental health for many years to come.
COVID vaccine for kids: Doctor answers your questions
The Pfizer vaccine for kids could be on the market in about a month after the drug maker filed for FDA authorization Thursday, Oct. 7, for their shot for kids ages 5 to 11.
However, many parents still have questions about the children’s COVID vaccine. Dr. Sallie Permar, the head of pediatrics at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, joined the PIX11 Morning News on Friday, Oct. 8, to share more information and answer some of the biggest questions.
Pfizer’s request to OK shots for kids a relief for parents
Parents tired of worrying about classroom outbreaks and sick of telling their elementary school-age children no to sleepovers and family gatherings felt a wave of relief Thursday, Oct. 7, when Pfizer asked the U.S. government to authorize its COVID-19 vaccine for youngsters ages 5 to 11.
NJ leaders take on ‘Mayors Vaccine Challenge’
Two New Jersey mayors are going head-to-head in an effort to get more people vaccinated against COVID-19. It’s all part of the ongoing vaccination campaign in the Garden State that has already propelled it as one of the nation’s leaders in the fight against COVID-19. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh is squaring off with Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora in what the state is calling the “Mayors Vaccine Challenge.”
New Jersey surpasses 1 million COVID-19 cases
As of Tuesday, Sept. 28, more than 1 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in New Jersey since the pandemic reached the state in 2020.
Pfizer submits vaccine data on kids to FDA
Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE announced they have submitted initial data to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from the Phase 2/3 trial of their COVID-19 vaccine in children 5 to 11.
In the trial, which included 2,268 participants 5 to 11 years of age, the vaccine demonstrated a favorable safety profile and elicited robust neutralizing antibody responses using a two-dose regimen of 10 μg doses.
NJ offers $500 ‘return to work bonus’ to unemployed residents
Unemployed New Jersey residents could earn a $500 bonus to return to the workforce as part of a new program announced by Gov. Phil Murphy on Monday, Sept. 27. The “Return and Earn” initiative will offer the one-time bonus to folks who secure a job through the program, including positions that require on-the-job training.
CDC director overrules panel, backs booster for all adults in high-risk jobs
The panel had voted against saying that people ages 18 to 64 can get a booster if they are health-care workers or have another job that puts them at increased risk of being exposed to the virus.
FDA OKs Pfizer COVID-19 boosters for 65 and older, high-risk Americans
The FDA authorized booster doses for Americans who are 65 and older, younger people with underlying health conditions and those in jobs that put them at high-risk for COVID-19. The ruling represents a drastically scaled back version of the Biden administration’s sweeping plan to give third doses to nearly all American adults to shore up their protection amid the spread of the highly contagious delta variant.
J&J booster shot 94% effective 2 months after 1st dose
Johnson & Johnson on Tuesday, Sept. 21, said new data shows a second dose — or a booster shot — of their one-shot COVID vaccine was found to be 94% effective against symptomatic COVID-19 when given two months after the initial dose.
Pfizer says COVID-19 vaccine works in kids ages 5 to 11
Pfizer said Monday, Sept. 20, its COVID-19 vaccine works for children ages 5 to 11 and that it will seek U.S. authorization for this age group soon — a key step toward beginning vaccinations for youngsters.
Vaccine mandate for child care facilities
Gov. Phil Murphy said all child care workers and facility employees need to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 1 or face regular weekly testing. As of Sept. 24, all employees, students and children in a facility’s care ages two and up will need to wear masks indoors, with limited exceptions.
Moderna vaccine is most effective against hospitalization from COVID-19: study
A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention compared how effective each of the three COVID-19 vaccines are in preventing hospitalization from the virus. The CDC reported that effectiveness was higher for the Moderna vaccine (93%) than the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine (88%) and the J&J vaccine (71%).
New Jersey surpassed as state with highest rate of COVID deaths
Mississippi has surpassed New Jersey as the state with the highest rate of COVID-19 deaths in the U.S., with roughly 1 of every 320 Mississippians having succumbed to the coronavirus.
COVID-19 is ‘getting better’ at becoming airborne virus
Recent COVID-19 variants are much more adept at airborne transmission than the original version of the coronavirus, according to a new study. University of Maryland researchers analyzed the Alpha variant first identified in the United Kingdom and discovered that carriers breathe out 43 to 100 times more infectious viral aerosols than those infected with the original strain.
COVID-19 variants significantly reduce protection of vaccines, prior infection: study
A new study confirms that vaccinations and even prior COVID-19 infection provide significantly less protection against newer variants. Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University say in order to protect against the Alpha, Beta, and now Delta variants, these findings stress the importance of doubling down on both vaccinations and public health measures during the pandemic.
Mask debate moves from school boards to courtrooms
The rancorous debate over whether returning students should wear masks in the classroom has moved from school boards to courtrooms. In at least 14 states, lawsuits have been filed either for or against masks in schools. In some cases, normally rule-enforcing school administrators are finding themselves fighting state leaders in the name of keeping kids safe.
Supreme Court allows evictions to resume during pandemic
The Supreme Court’s conservative majority is allowing evictions to resume across the United States, blocking the Biden administration from enforcing a temporary ban that was put in place because of the coronavirus pandemic. New Jersey’s statewide rent moratorium expires at the end of the year.
These foods are extra hard to find right now because of shortages, supply chain issues
Notice your grocery store shelves looking a little bare lately? You’re definitely not the only one. Supply chain issues have created shortages of highly specific ingredients.
‘It’s up to us’: Fauci says pandemic could possibly end by spring 2022
The nation’s top infectious disease expert believes the pandemic’s end is near as long as the U.S. follows the right protocols to contain COVID-19. Dr. Anthony Fauci said he sees the light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s only open if the country’s 80 million to 90 million unvaccinated people are convinced to get the shot.
Comirnaty: What’s the story behind the new Pfizer vaccine name?
Comirnaty, who? It’s the same exact mRNA vaccine Pfizer has been producing through the emergency use authorization, but now it’s being marketed under a new name.
Is an earache a new COVID-19 symptom?
Doctors say they’re seeing a new COVID-19 symptom in some patients. According to experts, an earache has been reported more frequently by those testing positive for COVID. Earaches can cause pain, a feeling of blockage and sometimes muffled hearing.
Johnson & Johnson: Vaccine booster provides ‘rapid, robust’ response
Johnson & Johnson on Wednesday, Aug. 25, announced new data the company said supports the use of its COVID vaccine as a booster shot for people previously vaccinated with their single-shot vaccine.
J&J said the new data showed that a booster shot of their vaccine generated a “rapid and robust increase in spike-binding antibodies, nine-fold higher than 28 days after the primary single-dose vaccination.”
NJ to require teachers, state workers be fully vaccinated
All school personnel and state workers in New Jersey will be required to get vaccinated against COVID-19, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday, Aug. 23.
Will COVID booster shot have the same side effects as the first two shots?
The Biden administration said Wednesday, Aug. 18, that COVID booster shots will soon be available, but how will the Sept. 20 rollout work, and what side effects should Americans expect?
Lambda and B.1.621: New COVID variants could be the worst yet, doctor warns
At least two new COVID-19 variants have hit the United States and they could be worse than the delta variant in their infectiousness and ability to stand up to vaccines, according to a top medical authority.
U.S. health officials call for booster shots for all to battle COVID-19
U.S. health officials recommended all Americans get COVID-19 booster shots to shore up their protection amid the surging delta variant and evidence that the vaccines’ effectiveness is falling. The announcement was made on Aug. 18.
Schumer calls for federal crackdown on fake vaccine cards
COVID claims more young victims as deaths climb yet again
The COVID-19 death toll has started soaring again as the delta variant tears through the nation’s unvaccinated population and fills up hospitals with patients, many of whom are younger than during earlier phases of the pandemic.
Concerts, outdoor events still risky as delta variant surges, experts say
Concerts and outdoor events are returning, and many are requiring proof of vaccination as part of new safety protocols designed to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19. But while experts say being outdoors is less risky in general, they continue to recommend additional precautions for those visiting crowded outdoor venues.
Biden weighs stiffer vaccine rules as delta variant spreads rapidly across U.S.
When the pace of vaccinations in the U.S. first began to slow, President Joe Biden backed incentives like million-dollar cash lotteries if that’s what it took to get shots in arms. But as new COVID infections soar, he’s testing a tougher approach.
Who doesn’t need the COVID-19 vaccine?
It has been eight months since the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered to health care workers nationwide. Since then, the vaccine has become available to anyone ages 5 and older. Experts explain the few instances in which a person would not qualify for, or should delay getting vaccinated.
Extra COVID shot OK’d for immunocompromised individuals
With more than 600 colleges and universities now requiring proof of COVID-19 inoculations, an online industry has sprung up offering fake vaccine cards.
What to do if you lose your COVID-19 vaccine card
Don’t worry if you’ve lost your COVID-19 vaccine card, there are several ways you can get it replaced. No matter where you got your shots, getting a replacement card is possible.
Will NJ reinstate a travel advisory?
Gov. Murphy said on Aug. 9, a new travel advisory is not off the table, but for now he encouraged mask wearing, which is mandatory in all airports and on flights, and other COVID safety protocols. “You gotta use your head,” he added.
Will NJ mandate masks indoors?
Despite CDC data showing New Jersey falls under its guidance to wear masks indoors, Gov. Murphy said he will not yet mandate face coverings but added, “we leave all options on the table.”
COVID transmission levels call for indoor masking under CDC guidelines
Indoor masking is advised in areas with COVID transmission rates considered “substantial” or “high” under recently updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Aug. 8, all of New Jersey falls under those categories.
How do you know if you have the delta variant of COVID-19?
So you’ve tested positive for COVID – but which COVID exactly? Is there a way to tell if you have the highly transmissible delta variant? There is a way to tell, but there’s not really a way for you to tell.
COVID breakthrough cases: Is one vaccine better than others?
Are kids more vulnerable to the delta variant of COVID-19?
Hospitals around the United States, especially in the South, are starting to fill back up again as the delta variant tears though the country. With previous waves of infection, we’ve been most worried about the elderly being vulnerable. Now, it’s younger people – even children – starting to show up in hospital beds.
NJ schools mask mandate: Teachers’ union backs, Republicans slam Murphy decision
New Jersey Republicans have largely trashed Gov. Phil Murphy’s announcement on Aug 6 that masks will be required in all schools in the upcoming academic year.
NJ health care workers must be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19
Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order on Aug. 6 mandating that all workers in state and private health care facilities either be vaccinated for COVID-19 or tested for it twice a week.
50% of U.S. population is fully vaccinated, White House says
The United States reached a vaccination milestone on Aug. 6: 50% of the population, all ages, were fully vaccinated, the White House COVID-19 data director confirmed.
CDC says people who’ve had COVID should get shot or risk reinfection
Even people who have recovered from COVID-19 are urged to get vaccinated, especially as the extra-contagious delta variant surges — and a new study shows survivors who ignored that advice were more than twice as likely to get reinfected.
The latest surge in COVID-19 infections is fueled by the highly contagious delta variant first identified in India late last year. Now, a variation of that variant is beginning to generate headlines. Here’s what we know about the COVID sub-strain being called delta plus.
Vaccine mandate for state colleges?
Currently, some state colleges in New Jersey are mandating the COVID-19 vaccine for students and staff and some have made it optional. Murphy said a universal mandate “is certainly an option,” but for now individual universities can make their own call.
More ‘pain and suffering’ ahead as COVID cases rise, Fauci says
Dr. Anthony Fauci warned on Aug. 1 that more “pain and suffering” is on the horizon as COVID-19 cases climb again and officials plead with unvaccinated Americans to get their shots.
Walmart requiring COVID vaccination, masks for many employees
Walmart associates who work in multiple facilities, and associates of its campus office, needed to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 4. Walmart also required associates, including those fully vaccinated, to wear masks in its stores.
Iconic NJ restaurant The Fireplace closes after 65 years
The Fireplace, like many other restaurants across the country, was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and temporarily shuttered its doors before reopening in May, when they implemented drive-thru, takeout and curbside pickup followed by indoor dining in October.
New delta variant research makes strong case for vaccination
A report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasized the delta variant is more dangerous and fast-spreading than first thought. The findings also made clear why efforts to get more people vaccinated are vital.
CDC data shows delta variant spreads as easily as chickenpox
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new information on July 30, saying the coronavirus delta variant can spread as easily as chickenpox.
Pfizer: COVID vaccine protective for at least 6 months
The effectiveness of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine wanes slightly over time but it remains strongly protective for at least six months after the second dose, according to company data released on July 28.
Disney World requires masks indoors regardless of vaccination status
Beginning July 30, Disney World required all visitors ages 2 and older to wear a face covering while indoors as well as in Disney buses, the monorail and the Disney Skyliner, regardless of vaccination status.
CDC mask guidance: Vaccinated people should wear face coverings in public indoor settings
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reversed course on some masking guidelines, recommending that even vaccinated people return to wearing masks indoors in parts of the U.S. where the coronavirus is surging.
U.S. headed in ‘wrong direction’ on COVID-19, Fauci says
Is asking about someone’s COVID vaccine status a HIPAA violation?
HIPAA was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996 during a time when medical records were being computerized. It was created to simplify the administration of health insurance and to prevent unauthorized access to peoples’ medical histories.
In fact, HIPAA doesn’t block anyone from asking another person about their health status, according to Alan Meisel, law professor and bioethics expert at the University of Pittsburgh.
Child tax credit checks: Will they become permanent?
The parents of an estimated 60 million American children began receiving child tax credit payments from the IRS in mid-July in a move expected to lift millions of families above the poverty baseline for the remainder of 2021. Should they become permanent?
‘Pandemic of the unvaccinated’
President Joe Biden was forced to confront the worrying reality of rising cases and deaths — and the limitations of his ability to combat the persistent vaccine hesitance responsible for a summer backslide.
Common cholesterol drugs may significantly reduce risk of death from COVID-19: study
Statins, a common medication for lowering cholesterol, may be saving lives among patients with COVID-19. A study revealed hospitalized coronavirus patients who took statins were much less likely to die from the illness.
WHO chief says it was ‘premature’ to rule out COVID lab leak
The head of the World Health Organization acknowledged on July 15, 2021, that it was premature to rule out a potential link between the COVID-19 pandemic and a laboratory leak.
Wildfire smoke linked to increased COVID-19 risk, study says
A study released in July 2021 suggested that exposure to wildfire smoke is linked to an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.
Global COVID-19 deaths hit 4 million amid rush to vaccinate
The global death toll from COVID-19 eclipsed 4 million on July 7, 2021, as the crisis increasingly became a race between the vaccine and the highly contagious delta variant.
Unvaccinated made up 99% of US COVID deaths in July 2021
There’s more to the worker shortage than pandemic unemployment, experts say
The workforce shortage is a combination of several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a shift in the economy, and changes in the workforce demographics, experts say.
Latest official indicators
As of Wednesday, there have been 1,915,912 total positive PCR tests in the state since March 2020, and there have been 30,301 lab-confirmed COVID-19 deaths, according to the state Health Department.
