America's leading infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci said Monday the world had been "shocked" by the emergence of the omicron variant of the coronavirus as more countries are reporting surges in infections.
The president on Thursday predicted a "winter of severe illness and death" for those who are still unvaccinated and implored Americans anew to get their shots and boosters.
The discovery of a new coronavirus variant sent a chill through much of the world Friday as nations raced to halt air travel, markets fell sharply and scientists held emergency meetings to weigh the exact risks, which were largely unknown.
Pfizer has already shipped millions of doses to states, doctors' offices and pharmacies. And pediatricians are getting ready to put shots into little arms.
The advisory group voted unanimously, with one abstention, that the vaccine's benefits in preventing COVID-19 in that age group outweigh any potential risks.
The agency announced new recommendations that even vaccinated people should return to wearing masks indoors in parts of the U.S. where the coronavirus is surging.
President says his administration is following the guidance of health officials and that there's been no decision to change the COVID-19 guidance on wearing face masks.
The Republican Senate leader gave a stark and grave warning of a repeat of last year's shutdowns if people refuse to protect themselves from the coronavirus.
Tests of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine started Monday in Louisiana for children ages 5 through 11. It's one of 98 facilities in 26 states, the District of Columbia, Finland, Poland and Spain where the tests are taking place or planned.