Essential workers slammed again as Omicron variant spreads
COVID-19 is again hitting nurses, flight crews and other frontline staff. "We don't have enough hands," one grocery worker says.
COVID-19
COVID antiviral pills could be game changer—if you can find them
Supplies of antiviral pills from Pfizer initially will be scarce, with some states getting only 100 courses of treatment.
Flights canceled, plans upended by Omicron
The COVID-19 Omicron variant is wreaking havoc on holiday plans. CBS News' Courtney Kealy reports, then Dr. Bob Lahita spoke with Bradley Blackburn on CBSN about what you should know if you're going to gather with your family this Christmas.
Religious pilgrimages on the rebound after pandemic put them on hold
The coronavirus pandemic forced the Catholic Church to cancel its annual pilgrimage in 2020, but this year travelers were back.
U.S. COVID cases surge ahead of holidays
New cases of the Omicron variant are spreading rapidly in the U.S. ahead of the holidays. People are dealing with long lines at testing sites across the nation. At-home testing kits are also short in supply and pharmacies are limiting how many customers can buy. CBS News correspondent Nancy Chen reports from New York City. Then critical care physician Dr. Lakshmana Swamy joins CBSN's Debra Alfarone to discuss the latest on the pandemic.
Omicron spike sparks surge in COVID testing
This year's holiday season is looking like a repeat of last year -- all thanks to the Omicron variant. Cases are surging, hospitalizations are rising and health care workers are overwhelmed. Nancy Chen has the latest.
COVID precautions for holiday gathering
With COVID-19 cases once again on the rise, what can you do to best protect your family during holiday gatherings? Dr. Jon LaPook has the answers.
Scientists learn more about risk from Omicron
New studies out of South Africa and the U.K. suggest the Omicron variant is less likely to cause hospitalizations -- but it can still be deadly. The FDA also authorized a new antiviral pill to treat COVID-19. CBS News' Nancy Chen reports on the latest, and then Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease expert at Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, spoke with Jessi Mitchell on CBSN about the Omicron research and how some patients are experiencing different symptoms than earlier strains.
Biden defends response to Omicron
President Biden is addressing growing frustration with long COVID testing lines across the country. Some critics argue the federal government should be doing more. CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe joined CBSN with details.
FDA approves second COVID treatment pill
The FDA has authorized the second antiviral pill to treat COVID-19. CBS News' Michael George reports. Then Dr. Jeremy Faust, emergency physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital at Harvard Medical School, joins CBSN to break down how the drugs work. He also explains why he thinks the CDC should implement "circuit breakers," short-term restrictions on high-risk activities to help curb the spread of the Omicron variant.
CDC shortens isolation time for health care workers with COVID-19
Federal officials say the change was motivated by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant and a staffing crunch at hospitals nationwide.
Putin holds his end-of-year press conference
Russian President Vladimir Putin held a marathon press conference in Moscow today amid escalating tensions with the U.S. over Moscow's military buildup at the Ukrainian border. He covered many topics, including relations with the West, COVID-19 and inflation. CBS News reporter Mary Ilyushina joins CBSN from Moscow with the details.
Times Square New Year's Eve celebration scaled back
The famous celebration will host less audience members and require them to wear masks and be fully vaccinated.
First-time jobless claims remain low
There are signs the job market is tightening as new jobless claims remain low. 205,000 Americans filed for first-time unemployment benefits last week. CBS MoneyWatch reporter Irina Ivanova joins CBSN with more.
Expert advice on travel insurance for holiday flyers
With so many travelers returning to the skies as the coronavirus pandemic persists, CBS News senior travel adviser Peter Greenberg says airports will be busy and understaffed.
Health officials anticipate spike in hospitalizations: "We are in a perfect storm"
As Omicron cases surge nationwide, experts believe it could be weeks before the country sees a downward trend in COVID-19 cases.
New COVID pill offers hope amid grim forecast
The FDA announced that Pfizer's antiviral pills, called Paxlovid, significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization for those at risk of serious illness from COVID-19. These findings come as hospitals and government officials prepare for a spike in infections. Nancy Chen reports.
Multiple studies suggest lower risk of hospitalization with Omicron
Scientists warn that the picture could change as more people become ill with the highly transmissible new variant, and that health systems could still be overwhelmed.
China locks down city of 13 million in bid to curb COVID outbreaks
The restrictions in Xi'an come just weeks before the Winter Olympics and are some of the harshest China has imposed since it locked down Wuhan after the coronavirus was first detected there in 2019.
U.K. works to contain Omicron variant
The United Kingdom is dealing with a wave of new COVID-19 cases as the Omicron variant spreads throughout the country. Now, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing pressure to contain it. CBS News contributor Simon Bates discusses how he might be able to steer his country through this latest surge in this week's installment of "London Calling."
FDA authorizes Pfizer pill to treat COVID
The Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday it has authorized Pfizer's antiviral pill to treat COVID-19 as the new Omicron variant hits all 50 U.S. states. CBS News correspondent Nancy Chen reports on how the new strain is causing disruptions across the country. Then, CBS News correspondent Mark Strassman has the latest on Omicron's impact on travel as tens of millions of Americans hit the road for the holidays. And lastly, Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne, an adjunct assistant professor of emergency medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, joins Elise Preston on CBSN to break down the day's headlines.
Pause on student loan repayments extended
On Wednesday, President Biden extended the pause on federal student loa repayments another 90 days, until May 1, 2022. CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett and CBS News' Elise Preston discuss the extension and the pressure the president is facing to address student loan debt on a larger scale.
Zillow projects increase in home prices next year
On the heels of a hot housing market in 2021, Zillow says it expects home prices to increase 11% in 2022. Kunal Lunawat, managing partner and co-founder of real estate technology-focused fund Agya Ventures, joins CBSN's Elise Preston to discuss.
U.S. population growth hits record low
New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows the U.S. population grew by just 0.1% in the past year, the slowest rate since the nation was founded. Tara Bahrampour, a reporter for The Washington Post, joins CBSN to discuss what attributed to the low growth rate.
Representative James Clyburn tests positive for COVID-19
Clyburn said it is a breakthrough case and he is asymptomatic.
Live
Israel targets more Iran leaders as allies reject Trump's calls for help
Israel says it killed Iran's top security official Ali Larijani, as America's European allies reject Trump's demands for help in the Strait of Hormuz.
Top Trump counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war
President Trump's director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, announced his immediate resignation Tuesday, citing the administration's decision to intervene in Iran.
Exclusive
Trump hosting big White House event around EPA's biofuels mandates decision
President Trump has invited farmers and biofuels producers to the White House for an event next week as the industry awaits the government's announcement on mandates for the fuel additives.
Kouri Richins, mom who wrote grief book, found guilty of murdering her husband
Jurors delivered their verdict Monday in the trial of Kouri Richins, a Utah mother accused of murdering her husband and later publishing a children's book about grief.
Senate GOP aims to begin marathon debate on SAVE America Act
The Senate is expected to begin a marathon debate on the SAVE America Act, an elections bill that President Trump has been pressing Republicans to pass.
Maine Democratic Senate primary grows bitter as party vies to unseat Susan Collins
A bitter Democratic primary is unfolding in Maine as Gov. Janet Mills and Graham Platner battle for the chance to challenge GOP Sen. Susan Collins — pitting a governor with a long political resume against an anti-establishment oyster farmer.
Alleged pipe bomber argues charges should be tossed under Jan. 6 pardons
A man who was accused of planting pipe bombs outside the RNC and DNC on the eve of the Jan. 6 attack is arguing he is covered by President Trump's sweeping pardons of alleged Jan. 6 rioters.
Meteor identified as likely cause of boom heard across Cleveland
Some residents immediately feared the sound was an explosion, according to CBS affiliate WOIO.
Illinois Senate primary race is test of Pritzker's sway, Democrats' views of ICE, outside spending
The 2026 Democratic primary campaign for retiring Sen. Dick Durbin's Senate seat is largely a three-person race. Voters go to the polls Tuesday in Illinois.
U.S.
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Top Trump counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war
President Trump's director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, announced his immediate resignation Tuesday, citing the administration's decision to intervene in Iran.
More flights canceled or delayed as weather, TSA staffing upend travel
Powerful storms swept across the eastern half of the country as many airports are also struggling with disruptions from reduced staffing at security checkpoints.
How much does becoming a homeowner at 30 boost your net worth?
Hopping on the property train earlier in life can significantly increase your wealth, a recent study found. Here's how much.
Meteor identified as likely cause of boom heard across Cleveland today
Some residents immediately feared the sound was an explosion, according to CBS affiliate WOIO.
Senate GOP aims to begin marathon debate on SAVE America Act
The Senate is expected to begin a marathon debate on the SAVE America Act, an elections bill that President Trump has been pressing Republicans to pass.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
How much does becoming a homeowner at 30 boost your net worth?
Hopping on the property train earlier in life can significantly increase your wealth, a recent study found. Here's how much.
Costco recalls meatloaf meal due to salmonella risk
Costco is recalling a meatloaf and potato meal kit because one of its ingredients may be contaminated with salmonella.
Hyundai stops sales of some 2026 models after a child's death
Hyundai's announcement came after a child died in an incident involving a Palisade vehicle, which the car maker said is still under investigation.
With gas prices still rising, experts recommend 3 ways to save fuel
Small adjustments, like maintaining a steady speed while driving, can help maximize fuel efficiency, experts say.
Gas prices edge higher with Brent crude remaining above $100 per barrel
Gas prices have jumped almost 79 cents per gallon from a month ago, raising fresh inflation concerns.
Politics
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Top Trump counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war
President Trump's director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, announced his immediate resignation Tuesday, citing the administration's decision to intervene in Iran.
Senate GOP aims to begin marathon debate on SAVE America Act
The Senate is expected to begin a marathon debate on the SAVE America Act, an elections bill that President Trump has been pressing Republicans to pass.
Exclusive
Trump hosting big White House event around EPA's biofuels mandates decision
President Trump has invited farmers and biofuels producers to the White House for an event next week as the industry awaits the government's announcement on mandates for the fuel additives.
Maine Democratic Senate primary grows bitter as party vies to unseat Susan Collins
A bitter Democratic primary is unfolding in Maine as Gov. Janet Mills and Graham Platner battle for the chance to challenge GOP Sen. Susan Collins — pitting a governor with a long political resume against an anti-establishment oyster farmer.
Illinois Senate primary race is test of Pritzker's sway, Democrats' views of ICE, outside spending
The 2026 Democratic primary campaign for retiring Sen. Dick Durbin's Senate seat is largely a three-person race. Voters go to the polls Tuesday in Illinois.
HealthWatch
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Judge blocks parts of RFK Jr.'s vaccine agenda, including revised schedule
A judge blocked a set of changes to the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by allies of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, dealing a setback to the Trump administration's efforts to overhaul federal vaccine policy.
Changes in organ donor status can fall through cracks in the system
Patchwork state policies and limited federal oversight have led to a fragmented system for tracking organ donor status.
A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
World
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Top Trump counterterrorism official resigns over Iran war
President Trump's director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Joe Kent, announced his immediate resignation Tuesday, citing the administration's decision to intervene in Iran.
Accused Latin American drug lord arrives in U.S. after years on the run
Sebastian Marset, who eluded police for years, was captured in Bolivia last week and transferred to U.S. custody.
Live
Israel targets more Iran leaders as allies reject Trump's calls for help
Israel says it killed Iran's top security official Ali Larijani, as America's European allies reject Trump's demands for help in the Strait of Hormuz.
At least 23 dead in suspected suicide bombings in Nigeria, police say
At least 23 people were killed and more than 100 wounded in suspected suicide bombings in Maiduguri, Nigeria, police said. It was one of the deadliest attacks in the conflict-battered city in recent history.
Hundreds killed in Pakistani strike on Afghan rehab hospital, Taliban says
The Taliban in Afghanistan claim that a Pakistani military airstrike on a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul has killed over 400 people, but Pakistan alleges the site was a weapons depot.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Melissa Etheridge opens up about new music
Melissa Etheridge speaks with "CBS Mornings" about releasing her 17th studio album "Rise" later this month, writing about the loss of her son and grief.
Woman on viral Coldplay "kiss cam" speaks out
Kristin Cabot, the woman from the viral Coldplay "kiss cam" video, spoke in an exclusive interview with Oprah Winfrey about the backlash she received from that moment and how it differed from comments made about her boss Andy Byron, the CEO of their company.
Kennedy Center votes to shut down ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
The Kennedy Center's board of directors has voted to shut down operations for two years following this summer's July 4 celebrations.
Stars walk Vanity Fair Oscar Party red carpet
Oscar winners Jessie Buckley, Michael B. Jordan and other celebrities appeared on the red carpet for the Vanity Fair party after the awards show. See some of the red carpet looks.
Did "Sinners" get snubbed at the Oscars?
The 2026 Academy Awards were held in Los Angeles on Sunday. Entertainment Tonight host Kevin Frazier breaks down the winners and the biggest upsets.
Technology
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Technology
U.S. hospitals, insurers turn to AI for claims
A constant battle in the U.S. health care system is the fight between insurers and providers over the cost of medical procedures and who foots the bill. Both sides are turning to artificial intelligence to make their case. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder explains.
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
Science
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Discovery of 1949 whale recording could unlock mysteries of ocean
The song is that of a humpback whale and was recorded by scientists in March 1949 in Bermuda, researchers said.
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
Crime
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Crime
Kouri Richins found guilty on all charges
Kouri Richins, the Utah mom accused of killing her husband and later writing a children's book about grief, was found guilty on all charges Monday, including aggravated murder. Her sentencing is now set for May and she faces the possibility of life in prison.
Accused Latin American drug lord arrives in U.S. after years on the run
Sebastian Marset, who eluded police for years, was captured in Bolivia last week and transferred to U.S. custody.
Alleged pipe bomber argues charges should be tossed under Jan. 6 pardons
A man who was accused of planting pipe bombs outside the RNC and DNC on the eve of the Jan. 6 attack is arguing he is covered by President Trump's sweeping pardons of alleged Jan. 6 rioters.
Kouri Richins convicted of murdering husband
A jury on Monday found Kouri Richins, a Utah mom who wrote about grief, guilty of murder in the fatal poisoning of her husband. CBS News reporter Andres Gutierrez has more.
Kouri Richins, mom who wrote grief book, found guilty of murdering her husband
Jurors delivered their verdict Monday in the trial of Kouri Richins, a Utah mother accused of murdering her husband and later publishing a children's book about grief.
Space
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Meteor identified as likely cause of boom heard across Cleveland today
Some residents immediately feared the sound was an explosion, according to CBS affiliate WOIO.
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Never Too Late: Woman faces her fear of water
In the "CBS Mornings" series "Never Too Late," an Olympian helps a woman face her fear of water, which she says stems from nearly drowning as a child. Adriana Diaz reports.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that might just become essentials in your everyday life. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
Melissa Etheridge opens up about new music
Melissa Etheridge speaks with "CBS Mornings" about releasing her 17th studio album "Rise" later this month, writing about the loss of her son and grief.
Damaging winds slam eastern parts of the U.S.
In Georgia, high winds on Monday toppled trees, while further north, a tornado packing winds up to 85 mph touched down in Charlotte, North Carolina. Severe winds also slammed Washington, D.C.
Spring break "takeovers" overwhelm cities
Massive gatherings organized on social media have overwhelmed some Florida cities and local officials as part of spring break "takeovers." In Daytona Beach, beachgoers ran after hearing what they thought were gunshots. Cristian Benavides reports.