Feds' contract with Pfizer for Paxlovid has some surprises
NPR has obtained the government's $5.3 billion contract for the first 10 million courses of Paxlovid, an antiviral pill for COVID-19. Here's what's in it.
Health & Safety
When can babies and kids under age 5 get their shots? Here's the timeline
The first big hurdle was crossed when Pfizer shared its clinical trial data with the FDA. Now there are five more steps to get through before this vulnerable population can be vaccinated.
Canadian health officials say get out and clear your head — it's good for you
A thousand doctors joined a program to prescribe time in national parks. People suffering anxiety or depression get a nature prescription, which also helps with chronic disease like diabetes.
A COVID-19 vaccine will soon be available for children under 5
NPR's Leila Fadel asks Dr. Claire Boogaard of Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., about the risks and benefits of vaccines for children under the age of five.
Omicron surge fallout: non-COVID patients wait for essential procedures
The omicron surge is derailing medical care for all kinds of patients. While it's hard to quantify, doctors say many patients are suffering because of canceled surgeries and clogged hospitals.
How some states are trying to upgrade their glitchy, outdated health care technology
The pandemic exposed how old-school tech hampers access to health care and other public services. With new federal funding, states finally have a way to upgrade, if they seize the opportunity.
A small island nation has cooked up not 1, not 2 but 5 COVID vaccines. It's Cuba!
Cuba has one of the world's highest COVID vaccination rates, with more than 85% of the nation fully immunized and kids as young as 2 getting inoculated. And it's done so using homegrown vaccines.
Heartbroken? There's a scientific reason why breaking up feels so rotten
Science writer Florence Williams experienced what felt like a brain injury when her husband left her after more than 25 years. Her new book is Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey.
COVID vaccines for young children could be ready by this spring
Pfizer and BioNtech are expected to ask the FDA for authorization for the first COVID-19 vaccine regimen for kids younger than age 5.