Author: ECCYC

A parent’s worst nightmare is playing out at a South Jersey park.

Police huddle in the parking lot devising a search plan.

Detectives walk door-to-door interviewing neighbors, while officers show a photo to passing motorists.

A search and rescue team gathers its gear. Eager K-9s are ready to get to work.

It’s only a drill, but that doesn’t matter to those involved in a full-scale training exercise last week in Gloucester County.

Their scenario involves locating a young girl who disappeared from Malaga Lake Park in Franklin Township and they are treating it like the real deal.

The Gloucester County Child Abduction Response Team (CART) is seeking certification with the U.S. Department of Justice and the training exercise is intended to put their skills to the test.

This would be the first county CART team in New Jersey to earn that certification — they are the first to seek it — and only the 29th in the nation.

Under a 2008 directive from the state Attorney General, each county was required to create a CART. The only time Gloucester’s has been fully activated was 10 years ago when a 12-year-old girl, Autumn Pasquale, was killed, drawing national attention.

The team consists of about 120 people, including members of the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, and representatives from federal, state and local agencies, including police from each department in the county.

“CART is very similar to a SWAT activation. It’s a group of trained individuals that respond whenever kids are missing to allocate resources to locate the child,” says Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office Lt. Stacie Lick, who works in the agency’s special victims unit and coordinates the CART program.

Lick, who created the county’s CART in 2008, is overseeing the drill, which she organized. Her daughter is playing the part of the missing child.

In the scenario, a mom took her 12-year-old to the park and stepped away to take a phone call. When she returned, the girl was gone. The mom looked for her for about 10 minutes before contacting police.

It’s reminiscent of a case in neighboring Cumberland County that remains unsolved after 2 1/2 years.

Dulce Maria Alavez was 5 years old when she vanished from Bridgeton City Park during a family outing in September 2019. Her family gathered at the park on Monday to mark her 8th birthday.

In the Gloucester County training exercise, participants don’t know if their fictional missing child was abducted or just wandered off.

“We don’t know for sure, and that’s how we usually get cases that come in,” Lick explains.

She’s been working since January to organize the drill, which included creating evidence for searchers to find and coordinating with a few neighbors to provide “tips” as police go looking for clues. They even filmed surveillance video showing the missing child walking past a local business.

The goal is to test every element of the team.

“We did a trail for the bloodhounds so that they could train and track her through the woods,” Lick says. “Evidence was planted so that they could find it. The drones went out to see if they could see the evidence. We tried to make it so that everyone was participating.”

At the park in Malaga, a line of police vehicles from around the county pulls in to join Franklin Police personnel coordinating at the scene.

At a roadblock canvas along Route 40, officers stop cars and share the child’s photo. Some of the motorists are participants in the drill and share tips with the officers.

They even recruited the media to assist. In my capacity as a journalist, I’m asked to provide a tip to investigators that a resident reported seeing the child along the beach area at the park.

Many of those involved in this drill have experienced this real-life situation.

It was 2012 when 12-year-old Autumn Pasquale disappeared in Clayton, prompting a Gloucester County CART activation and widespread search. It turned out that she had been strangled the day she disappeared by a teenager who later pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter and was sentenced to 17 years in prison. His brother pleaded to an obstruction charge in the case.

Autumn is always on Lick’s mind as she approaches a new case.

“I was the incident commander on that job,” she says. “We learned a lot from that. We grew tremendously from that response.”

Back at the park, drone crews quickly set up their mobile ground stations and their vehicles zip skyward, kicking up small clouds of dust as they rise above the scene and begin their scans of the largely wooded area. Some of the drones are equipped with heat-sensing technology.

What the drones see can also be viewed a few miles away at the search command center set up in a firehouse parking lot.

A hulking white vehicle — the mobile field communications unit for Gloucester County Office of Emergency Management — is deployed for any large-scale incident, says Deputy Emergency Management Coordinators Gerard Moore.

It looks like a giant motorhome, but houses everything needed to manage a crisis on the ground, including video and cellular communications, two dispatcher stations and a command area where incident leaders work.

“We have full capabilities as we would in our comms center in Clayton,” Moore explains.

This setup allows dispatchers to focus solely on this mission, he says, while staff back at their main communications center can handle all other emergency activity in the county.

Thanks to technology, the team can use a digital grid overlay of a search area and work block by block to coordinate their work, says GCPO Chief of Detectives Tom Gilbert.

Those tools and exercises like these are vital when responding to time-sensitive incidents. In child-abduction cases, for example, it’s understood that an abductor will usually act quickly if they intend to harm a child, he notes.

“We want everybody to know each other and speak in common language and be able to deploy the resources,” Gilbert says. “It’s like an hourglass. You flip it over and we’re fighting against time. You’ve got to really be on top of your game.”

The Pasquale case was the only child disappearance that has prompted a full CART activation in the county, but the team investigates about 50 missing children cases a year, Lick says. Many cases involve teen runaways or a child who wandered off.

“We do a lot of partial activations. I may bring out certain members to assist because we need resources.”

Immediate actions may include reverse 911 calls to area homes, contacting family and friends of the missing child and bringing out K-9s.

She looks at various factors, including disabilities and whether the child relies on medications. Weather conditions are also considered.

Most cases are resolved quickly, with kids safely recovered.

The CART response will always be based on the circumstances, not on public expectations, Lick says.

She goes back to something she heard at the command post during the Pasquale case when a representative from the state police was asked about sending out searchers to various locations without any real reason for doing so.

“Listen, we are not going to search because it looks good,” the trooper responded.

“I’ll never forget that, because I feel like sometimes the departments do things because of public perceptions,” Lick says. “They want the public to see their response. But it’s really not beneficial. That’s where problems get created in the response to missing kids. You need to have a purpose for what you’re doing. And if there’s no purpose for it, then you shouldn’t be doing it.”

Her team takes every missing child case seriously, “because they all could end with a homicide investigation,” she says. “I’m very passionate about this kind of work, which is why we’re involved in getting the certification.”

Officials overseeing the certification process closely monitor every aspect of the day’s activities.

Certification confirms the team is carrying out its duties correctly in how it manages different aspects of its response.

“The certification makes sure you have that all prepared and organized ahead of time,” Lick says. “They also review your policy and procedures and make sure that it’s in place and covers everything that it needs to — and that you are following procedure.”

Certification is also a matter of liability protection.

Police agencies are often sued over how missing person cases are handled. In the Pasquale case, her family sued the county and police departments, but the case was later dismissed.

“The family complained about it and went to the Attorney General’s office,” Lick says. “We had to provide all of our documentation to the Attorney General’s office and they declared that we followed our policy and procedure and that we were fine in our response. So I think it does help that you have a policy and that you follow it.”

Back at the command center, activity ramps up by early afternoon as police vet new leads and Lick communicates with leaders on the ground.

Soon after, the drill is over and I have one more job — to ask questions about the outcome of the search during a press conference. In keeping with the reality of the drill, little information is revealed, apart from the good news that the girl had been located at a nearby Wawa and is unharmed.

After a round of congratulations and a discussion of any concerns, the team disbands for the afternoon and members return to their normal duties until the next time their CART skills are needed.

Lick is pleased with the exercise.

“It was outstanding. A lot better than I really expected,” she says. “I got great feedback from everyone that participated.”

She heard positive feedback from the federal assessors, too, but a review process must be completed before a decision on certification is made. A decision could come in the next several weeks.

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Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.

As legislation that aims to extend New Jersey’s indoor smoking ban to Atlantic City’s casinos remains dormant, a poll out of Stockton University suggests that most adults would be in favor of a totally smoke-free casino experience.

In the statewide poll of 640 New Jersey adults, 62% said they support a smoking prohibition on casino floors. Thirty-one percent indicated that they’d be opposed to the move, and 6% were unsure.

“There’s still a majority in South Jersey supporting the ban, but it’s slightly lower — 59% in South Jersey would support it,” said John Froonjian, director of the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton.

Two-thirds of folks in North Jersey (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren counties) would like to see a smoking ban at the nine Atlantic City casinos.

“There are more people who are dependent on the casino industry for jobs in the south, and the casino industry has said that if this ban goes into effect, they will lose revenue and that will translate into job losses,” Froonjian said.

Casino workers have said that revenue shouldn’t be the focus of this debate — instead, it should be the health of employees who could be forced to breathe in smoke for several hours straight during their shifts on the floor.

United Auto Workers, one of the two major casino workers’ unions, wrote a letter in April to legislators asking them to hold hearings on a proposed law that would get rid of the casino exclusion from New Jersey’s smoke-free rules.

The other union, Local 54 of Unite Here, has urged lawmakers to not move forward with the proposal, suggesting that a ban would result in lost jobs, less tax revenue for the state, and less money for senior programs.

Dino Flammia is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at dino.flammia@townsquaremedia.com

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

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ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The Sons of the American Legion Detachment of New Jersey Children and Youth Commission, along with Girl Scouts from two North Jersey troops, helped to satisfy the sweet tooth of veterans in the VA hospitals at both Lyons and East Orange with a drop-off on April 18 of more than $1,000 worth of Girl Scout cookies.

“It’s important for us to honor and serve our country’s veterans as well as to take time to lift their spirits by delivering Girl Scout cookies,” said Junior Eliana Spangle, a member of Girl Scout Troop 20122 in Nutley who helped make the delivery to the East Orange campus of the VA.

This project was rolled out in April, which has been designated by the American Legion since 1938 as “National Children and Youth Month.” Commitment to children and youth is one of the four pillars of the American Legion; the others being Americanism, national security, and veterans affairs and rehabilitation.

The Bellville SAL 105 raised money to purchase the cookies from Girl Scout troops in Nutley and Belleville to be donated to veterans at VA facilities.

“As the chairman for this year, it was important to me that we run some sort of program which could get the kids involved with our vets,” said Rusty Myers, SAL Detachment chairperson for the Children and Youth Commission based out of Squadron 105 in Belleville. “It just so happens I’m in a family of Scouts, and my daughters and wife are very involved in Girl Scouts. At a squadron level, my kids are very involved with the Legion — and they have gotten a lot out of that. This project was a way to share that experience with other Scouts, while doing something nice for our veterans.”

Myers’ wife, Meghan Myers, the Girl Scout Heart of NJ service manager for Nutley and Belleville, echoed that sentiment, saying, “The promise of Girl Scouts is to serve God and country, help people at all times and to live by the Girl Scout law. I can think of no better way to fulfill this oath than to help the very people who have served this great country.”

Donations for this project were both big and small. 

“What a great project,” wrote Legionnaire Henry DelTosto, the adjutant for the American Legion Essex County Executive Committee, which donated $200. 

Other large donations came from SAL Squadron 105 in Belleville, and Douglas Sherman of the FOX News Channel, as well as an almost $500 donation from the SAL Detachment of NJ Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committee. 

“The committee loved the idea. It allowed us to support two of our committees and help our veterans, and at the same time support our Girl Scouts,” VA&R Chairperson Patrick Gallagher said. “It lets our vets know that someone out in the community is thinking of them.”

In all, total cash donations exceeded $1,000, purchasing almost 200 boxes of Thin Mints, Samoas, Do-si-dos, Tagalongs and all of our other favorite sweet treats.

A key component of the project was always to have the Scouts deliver the cookies and chat with the vets in-person, so they could see where the cookies go, and bring a little sunshine into the day of the residents of VA Lyons and East Orange. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospitals required a drop-off, so the Scouts couldn’t give them directly to the veterans. Still, the Scouts took time from their spring breaks to deliver the cookies to staff at the hospitals.

“It was a wonderful experience, helping give back to veterans who have given so much to us. I hope they enjoy the cookies!” Troop 20122 Junior Shriya Karnik said. 

Girl Scout Sophia Harris said, “Donating the cookies was a nice experience knowing that it would put a smile on people’s faces.”

Photos Courtesy of Rusty Myers

  Belleville American Legion Post 105 and SAL Squadron 105, East Orange VA Hospital, Girl Scouts, Veterans

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Mount St. Dominic Academy, the independent, all-girls Catholic college preparatory school in Caldwell, is hosting the eighth annual MSDA Meghan Doyle ʼ05K, a 5-kilometer run/walk, on the streets of Caldwell and Essex Fells on Saturday, May 7.

This event was the brainchild of a Maplewood family, the Doyles, after their daughter Meghan, a member of the Mount’s Class of 2005, died suddenly in 2013. With a desire to carry on her legacy and help Meghan achieve some of her life’s bucket list items, the Doyle family worked with the Mount to create this spirited and important fundraiser that has positively impacted the lives of many young women throughout the state. To date, the MSDA Meghan Doyle ’05K has raised nearly $200,000 in support of the Mount’s financial assistance program. 

After two consecutive years of successful virtual events, this community run/walk returns with a USA Track & Field Grand Prix–certified course that winds through the neighborhoods surrounding the school’s campus. The race features a cash prize for the top female and male runners, with medals and awards for the top three finishers in each age group.

MSDA is also hosting the run/walk virtually, with participants from Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania already signed up. New this year will be a free fun run for children, with a touch-a-truck event featuring first responders from the surrounding communities. Following registration for the fun run, children ages 10 and younger will have race opportunities broken down by age and the chance to explore the emergency vehicles and trucks.

The touch-a-truck event will begin at 8:30 a.m., the fun run at 9 a.m. and the 5K run/walk at 9:30 a.m. The virtual event will run from May 5 through 9. For more information and to register, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Caldwell/MtStDominicAcademy5KRunWalk.

  Mount Saint Dominic Academy

A vital safety net for New Jersey families living in deep poverty is shrinking even as the number of residents in need continues to grow amid rising costs and an ongoing pandemic, said advocates.

The Garden State’s cash assistance program, Work First New Jersey, is struggling to reach families trapped in a cycle of extreme poverty, according to a coalition of advocates and policy experts that work with the state’s most vulnerable residents.

“Fewer than one in six families living in poverty are supported by Work First New Jersey, and even those who receive assistance do not get enough to make ends meet,” according to Brittany Holom-Trundy, senior policy analyst at New Jersey Policy Perspective.

Holom-Trundy joined advocates from several statewide organizations at a press conference earlier this week to urge state lawmakers to pass legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex, and Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, D-Hudson.

The bill, S1642/A3324, would bolster Work First New Jersey by removing some restrictions in the program, including work and education requirements, that have prevented many families from getting needed assistance, advocates said.

“In one of the wealthiest states in the wealthiest nation on earth, poverty is a policy choice,” Holom-Trundy said. “We can and must do better.”

Work First New Jersey provides cash assistance to families with annual income at or below 30% of the federal poverty level.

But enrollment has declined 91% since its inception in 1996, the same year the U.S. government created the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, which provides the grants to fund state initiatives like Work First New Jersey.

Federal lawmakers built the program with the goal of lifting families out of poverty through work, but it was influenced by harmful narratives that have permeated U.S. policymaking for more than a century, said Renee Koubiadis, Anti-Poverty Program director at New Jersey Citizen Action.

“It was based on ideas about families in deep poverty that have been around throughout our nation’s history, and it included a number of punitive measures that harm families, especially families of color,” Koubiadis told NJ Advance Media.

The federal government created TANF as part of a collection of sweeping reforms that it said were meant to “end welfare as we know it,” according to a series of reports from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

But a report published in August 2021 highlighted a list of punitive measures in the law, including a lifetime ban on benefits for people with drug felony convictions, a requirement that TANF participants assign their rights to child support to the state and “family caps” that deny additional assistance to families who have another child while receiving benefits.

“This legacy of exclusion and subjugation is a major reason why TANF cash assistance, though a critical support for some, doesn’t meet the needs of most families in poverty, regardless of their race or ethnicity,” the report said.

To make matters tougher, annual federal funding for the program has not changed in 26 years, and inflation has reduced the real value of those dollars by 40%.

“After 26 years of data and research and with the state flush with surplus and federal funding, there is no better time to improve this program,” Koubiadis said. “We know that the need is there, but we see this program shrinking year after year.”

Gov. Phil Murphy and state lawmakers have worked to improve the program over the past few years, including an increase of 10% in monthly benefits in 2018 and another 20% increase in 2019.

But advocates say more reforms are needed to address the racial and socio-economic inequities that serve to keep families of all ethnicities in deep poverty.

The bill currently making its way through the state Legislature includes about 20 different improvements to the program, three of which Murphy included in budget language for the current fiscal year.

The measure would extend benefits to families earning up to 50% of the federal poverty level, which amounts to $11,515 per year for a family of three. It also seeks to reduce work requirements from 35 hours per week down to 30 for all families, and families with infants would be required to complete 20 hours each week.

“These changes will make Work First New Jersey more accessible and allow it to better serve our most vulnerable residents,” Ruiz said. “The reforms provide a greater understanding of the realities of working families, offering greater flexibility for families with young children at home and individuals interested in earning a degree.”

The legislation has been referred to the health and human services committees in both chambers of the state Legislature.

Residents can apply for Work First New Jersey benefits and other public assistance programs at their county Board of Social Services or by visiting www.njhelps.org.

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Derek Hall may be reached at dhall@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @dereknhall.

TAP Into Another Town’s News:

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.

Moderna seeks approval for COVID vaccine for kids under 6

Moderna on Thursday asked U.S. regulators to authorize low doses of its COVID-19 vaccine for children younger than 6, a long-awaited move toward potentially opening shots for millions of tots by summer.

Fauci: US in ‘a different moment’ but pandemic not over

Dr. Anthony Fauci said Wednesday the coronavirus is under better control in the United States, but the pandemic isn’t over — and the challenge is how to keep improving the situation.

“We are in a different moment of the pandemic,” said Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, in an interview with The Associated Press.

After a brutal winter surge, “we’ve now decelerated and transitioned into more of a controlled phase,” he said. “By no means does that mean the pandemic is over.”

Fauci said the U.S. appears to be out of what he called the “fulminant phase” of the pandemic, huge variant surges that at their worst sparked hundreds of thousands of infections daily, along with tens of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths.

COVID-19 cases are at a lower point than they’ve been in months and two-thirds of the U.S. population is vaccinated. Nearly half of those who need a booster dose have gotten the extra shot, and effective treatments are available.

“We are much, much better off than we were a year ago,” Fauci said.

CDC: About 6 in 10 Americans have signs of previous COVID-19 infection

Almost 6 in 10 Americans have signs of previous COVID-19 infection, showing the widespread reach of the virus, according to new data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

The CDC study shows that the percentage of people testing positive for antibodies — an indication of previous COVID-19 infection — increased from about 34 percent in December to about 58 percent in February.

CDC report: Unvaccinated kids twice as likely to end up in the hospital with COVID

A new report from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is painting a clearer picture of hospitalizations among 5-11-year-olds during the omicron surge at the start of 2022. 

The study revealed that unvaccinated 5-11-year-olds were twice as likely to end up in the hospital with COVID-19 as those who were vaccinated.

Justice Department to appeal order voiding travel mask mandate

The Justice Department is filing an appeal seeking to overturn a judge’s order that voided the federal mask mandate on planes and trains and in travel hubs, officials said Wednesday.

The notice came minutes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asked the Justice Department to appeal the decision handed down by a federal judge in Florida earlier this week.

Travel in NY, NJ: Do I need to wear a mask?

A decision by a federal judge in Florida to throw out a national mask mandate in public transportation across the U.S. created a patchwork of rules Monday that vary by city and mode of transit.

Mask mandate ends on NJ Transit: Murphy

The mask mandate has been dropped for NJ Transit buses and trains, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said Tuesday, April 19. The decision comes following a federal judge’s ruling that struck down the nationwide mask mandate on public transportation and an announcement by the TSA that it would no longer require face coverings.

Federal judge voids US mask mandate for planes, other travel

A federal judge in Florida on Monday, April 18, voided the national mask mandate covering airplanes and other public transportation as exceeding the authority of U.S. health officials in the coronavirus pandemic.

FDA approves first COVID-19 breath test for emergency use

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Thursday, April 15, that it had authorized the first test to detect COVID-19 through breath for emergency use.

CDC extends travel mask requirement to May

The Biden administration announced on Wednesday, April 13, that it is extending the nationwide mask requirement for public transit for 15 days as it monitors an uptick in COVID-19 cases.

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

A military medical team is now on the ground in Newark, New Jersey after arriving early Thursday, Jan. 20 to assist with the surge in COVID-19 patients and staff shortages that has left University Hospital overwhelmed.

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 Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shortened the amount of time Moderna recipients need to wait to get a booster dose from six months to five months, aligning the timeline with Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine. 

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. 

CDC shortens Pfizer booster wait time to 5 months

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention updated their recommendation for when many people can get the Pfizer COVID booster shot, shortening the interval from six months to five months.

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

As demand for COVID-19 tests explodes across the tri-state area, City MD is “temporarily closing” 31 locations to “preserve [the] ability to staff sites.”

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

With the omicron variant on the rise, President Joe Biden announced 500 million free rapid tests for Americans, increasing support for hospitals under strain from the variant and an emphasis on vaccination and boosting efforts.

How to get a free at-home COVID test kit in NJ

Need to get tested for COVID-19? A new federally funded program allows New Jersey residents to request a free at-home COVID-19 test kit.

Moderna booster raises antibodies against omicron 37-fold

Moderna said recent data on its booster shot showed that the third dose of the COVID vaccine significantly increased antibody levels against the omicron variant.

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’

Researchers at Oregon Health and Science University say they’ve found evidence to suggest that breakthrough infections create “super immunity” to the virus that causes COVID-19.

“You can’t get a better immune response than this,” senior author Fikadu Tafesse, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the OHSU School of Medicine, said.

Watch out for these 5 early omicron symptoms, study says

Wondering if you have a cold or the highly transmissible omicron variant of the coronavirus?

Well, based on the top five symptoms according to one study, it might be hard to tell.

A year after 1st COVID vaccinations in NJ, governor pushes booster shots

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy marked the one-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 vaccinations in the state on Wednesday, Dec. 15, by promoting booster shots.

US COVID-19 death toll hits 800,000

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.

New US travel restrictions go into effect

Beginning Monday, Dec. 6, travelers heading to the U.S. will be required to show evidence of a negative COVID test within one day of boarding their flight instead of three days prior, regardless of their nationality or vaccination status. See what you need to know here.

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

The United States’ ban on non-citizen travel from South Africa and seven additional African nations began on Monday, Nov. 29, due to omicron, a new COVID-19 variant of concern, White House officials said.

The United States announced on Dec. 24 it would lift the ban.

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

Moderna said on Oct. 25 that a low dose of its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and appears to work in 6- to 11-year-olds, as the manufacturer moves toward expanding shots to children.

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 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday, Sept. 23, endorsed booster shots for millions of older or otherwise vulnerable Americans. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky signed off on the recommendations from a panel of advisers, but then overnight added one more the panel had rejected.

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.

EU removes US from safe travel list

The European Union recommended that its 27 nations reinstate restrictions on tourists from the U.S. because of rising coronavirus infections there.

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

The Senate’s top Democrat says federal law enforcement officials need to crack down on fake COVID-19 vaccination cards being sold online.

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

The FDA has approved an extra, third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine for transplant recipients and others with severely weakened immune systems.

Fake COVID vaccine cards worry college officials

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?

COVID-19 breakthrough cases are rising, and now people want to know which vaccine offers the best protection from the coronavirus.

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.

Gov. Murphy mandates masks in schools

In a reversal of plans, Gov. Phil Murphy announced on Aug. 6 a mandate for masks in schools for 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.

Moderna says vaccine 93% effective after 6 months

Moderna said its COVID vaccine has 93% efficacy six months after the second shot, according to a report released on Aug. 5.

Can I get ‘long COVID’ if I’m infected after getting vaccinated?

It’s unclear, but researchers are studying the chances of long-term symptoms developing in anyone who might get infected after vaccination.

What is the delta plus variant of COVID?

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

A popular restaurant in New Jersey closed its doors after 65 years of service.

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.

NJ mask guidance

Gov. Phil Murphy and New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli strongly recommended that both vaccinated and unvaccinated residents wear masks in indoor settings when there is increased risk.

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

The United States is in an “unnecessary predicament” of soaring COVID-19 cases fueled by unvaccinated Americans and the virulent delta variant, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert said on July 25.

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

America’s top infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said in July that about 99.2% of COVID-19 deaths in the United States involved unvaccinated people. “It’s really sad and tragic that most all of these are avoidable and preventable,” he added.

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 Friday, there have been 1,946,093 total positive PCR tests in the state since March 2020, and there have been 30,391 lab-confirmed COVID-19 deaths, according to the state Health Department.

COVID-19 timeline: How novel coronavirus spread