Rob Stein
Stories
-
U.S. life expectancy hits a new high as deaths from overdoses and COVID fall
An American born in 2024 can expect to live to be 79, on average. But people in other wealthy countries can expect to live longer.
-
Here's how 'shared decision making' for childhood vaccines could limit access
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s new approach to six shots that were formerly given routinely will introduce new hurdles for getting kids immunized. And it could have a chilling effect on doctors.
-
Critics say 'talk to your doc' requirement for some vaccines causes confusion
A recent change puts some long-recommended childhood vaccines in a new category called "shared clinical decision-making." The ramifications of this seemingly wonky change could be far-reaching.
-
Flu shot recommendation for kids dropped just as the illness rages
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dropped its advice that kids get an annual flu shot at a time when flu cases and hospitalizations are surging.
-
Health officials slash the number of vaccines recommended for all kids
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is reducing the number of vaccines recommended for all children. The action follows a presidential memorandum ordering a review of the U.S. schedule.
-
Scientists learn more about how human embryos implant using artificial wombs
Scientists have developed an experimental way to study how human embryos implant in a uterus, which may provide new insights into why miscarriages occur and how they can be prevented.
-
What cuts to research under Trump have meant for science in 2025
Trump administration officials say changes to federal agencies engaged in science were made in the interests of better science that benefits more Americans. Many scientists we spoke with disagree.
-
With cases on the rise, experts worry the U.S. is in for another bad flu season
Flu cases are soaring in New York and picking up in other parts of the country. Experts worry it will be another bad season. COVID and RSV have been less of a problem, but they're also on the rise.
-
Covering vaccines in an age of distrust
NPR's Rob Stein explains why covering vaccines is no longer routine science journalism, but a political battleground.
-
With cases ramping up, experts worry the U.S. is in for another bad flu season
Flu cases are soaring in New York and picking up in other parts of the country. Experts worry it will be another bad season. COVID and RSV have been less of a problem, but they're also on the rise.
