December 23, 2021 – FDA Authorizes Merck’s Pill, Changing Definition Of “Fully Vaccinated,”

In our continuing series looking at the latest medical research and news on COVID-19, Larry Mantle speaks with Dr. Shruti Gohil professor of medicine and associate medical director for epidemiology and infection prevention at UC Irvine’s School of Medicine. Topics today include: FDA authorizes Merck’s COVID-19 pill, but stresses its use should be limited.  Why does the Omicron variant spread so easily?  Biden announced 500 million free test at-home test kits, but when will they be available?  The changing definition of “fully vaccinated” as Omicron spreads.  After the flu virtually disappeared last year, it’s made an unwelcome comeback.  Study suggests three doses of China’s Sinovac vaccine fails to protect against Omicron.  ‘Staggeringly fast rise’ in L.A. County coronavirus cases triggers alarm.  Experts say that Covid-19 is shifting towards becoming an endemic disease.  Omicron surge further complicates a year filled with unruly passengers for airlines.  Israel considers approving fourth vaccine dose.  Israel agreed to trade data on their vaccination efforts in exchange for locking down a supply, now privacy concerns have arisen.  As Omicron spreads, older americans are displaying a mix of worry and resolve.  California will send at-home tests to K-12 students.  This program is made possible in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.