With omicron so transmissible, experts warn everyone to up their mask game The CDC is expected to recommend that Americans to upgrade their masks to high-efficiency respirators. But how do you find one that fits you — and is legit? Maria Godoy
Covid updates for today: The myth that coronavirus strains get milder A Covid myth we all want to believe, school closures, and an interesting factoid about symptoms. KUOW Staff
Coronavirus FAQ: Why are some folks hacking home COVID tests by swabbing their throat? The FDA-approved tests call for a nasal swab. Some doctors are tweeting that they're doing a throat swab, too — though they don't recommend this step to the public. Here's a look at the swab debate. Sheila Mulrooney Eldred
Chicago kids back in class after 5-day standoff between teachers' union and officials COVID safety concerns led to a five-day stalemate between Chicago's teachers union and school and city officials. Kids are back in school. Both sides are weighing whether it was the right decision. Susie An
Public health experts say most of us will get COVID-19, what does that mean? Public health experts say COVID-19 won't be eradicated, but studies show the omicron variant is less severe than delta, and there are ways to manage the disease — which will become predictable. Courtney Dorning
Why omicron may cause less harm — and what it means for the future of the pandemic There's growing evidence that omicron causes less severe disease than previous variants. Does that mean SARS-CoV-2 is evolving into a more mild virus? Will future surges be less deadly and disruptive? Michaeleen Doucleff
COVID was again the leading cause of death among U.S. law enforcement in 2021 Some 458 officers died in the line of duty, making 2021 the deadliest year since 1930. The vast majority of deaths — 301 — are attributed to COVID-19, followed by firearm and traffic incidents. Rachel Treisman
Medicare considers covering expensive Alzheimer's drug for those in clinical trials Under a proposal announced Tuesday, Medicare would cover the expensive and controversial Alzheimer's drug Aduhelm — but only for those participating in clinical trials. Jon Hamilton
Twin panda cubs delight devoted fans at Tokyo zoo in a COVID shortened debut Twin panda cubs made their first public appearance before delighted fans in Tokyo but only briefly for now — just for three days — due to a spike in COVID-19 cases driven by the omicron variant. The Associated Press
Medicare proposes covering expensive Alzheimer's drug for those in clinical trials Aduhelm is the first treatment approved in the country to slow cognitive decline in those living with Alzheimer's. Doctors have refused to prescribe it, given the lack of data and evidence behind it. Jonathan Franklin