Pfizer starting study of vaccine geared toward Omicron variant
The new U.S. study is enrolling up to 1,420 healthy adults, ages 18 to 55, to test the updated Omicron-based shots for use as a booster or for primary vaccinations
Omicron Variant
Pfizer targets Omicron variant
Pfizer and BioNTech are working on a trial to test a modified COVID-19 vaccine aimed at targeting the Omicron variant. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joined CBS News to discuss the latest on the pandemic, including why the FDA has halted use of two monoclonal antibody treatments that don't work well against Omicron.
Omicron surge adds complications to U.S. economy
The spread of the Omicron variant is causing an additional complication to the U.S. economy, which is already struggling with high inflation and a supply chain crisis. And data shows nearly 9 million Americans were out of work in January because they were caring for someone with COVID-19 or being ill with the virus themselves. Joshua Hausman, associate professor of public policy and economics at the University Of Michigan and research associate at the National Bureau Of Economic Research, joins CBSN's Lana Zak with more.
Face The Nation: McCaul, Gottlieb, Americans weigh in on COVID-19
Missed the second half of the show? The latest on Republican Congressman Michael McCaul's urge to impose Russia sanctions, COVID-19 vaccine for kids, and Americans weigh in on COVID-19 and the economy.
Gottlieb doesn't expect vaccine for kids under 5 before late March
Dr. Scott Gottlieb, the former FDA commissioner, says the FDA and Pfizer are "looking very closely at the data that's accrued to see if they can make a decision around this."
Omicron infections decline nationwide
While COVID-19 infections fueled by the Omicron variant are leveling off nationwide, some states are still seeing high rates of hospitalizations and deaths. Lilia Luciano has more.
More children hospitalized with COVID
This week marks two years since COVID-19 was first detected in the United States, and while there are some encouraging signs that Omicron has peaked in some parts of the country, there's a troubling rise in the number of kids being infected. Michael George has the latest.
COVID cases floor Missouri Children's Hospital
Dr. Anthony Fauci said he "absolutely did not know when the FDA will authorize" a COVID vaccine for young children — walking back comments he made indicating that could happen within a month. It comes as infections among children are soaring across the country. Carter Evans has more.
Kids' COVID-19 hospitalizations on the rise
COVID-19 hospitalizations for children are climbing, with an average of more than 900 kids admitted a day. CBS News' Michael George reports, then Dr. Gigi Chawla, chief of pediatrics at Children's Hospital and Clinics of Minnesota, joins CBSN to discuss the latest.
Omicron batters states with low vaccination rates
Thursday marks two years since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in the U.S. CBS News' Bradley Blackburn has more on how the virus is impacting states with low vaccination rates, and the battle over masks in schools. Then, emergency medicine physician Dr. Anand Swaminathan joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the latest.
First-time jobless claims rise
First-time unemployment claims took an unexpectedly large jump last week. The U.S. Labor Department reports 286,000 people filed new claims the week ending January 15th. Diane Swonk, chief economist at Grant Thornton, joins CBSN to discuss the latest.
U.S. debuts site for free at-home COVID tests
Some hospitals are overwhelmed, facing an influx of COVID-19 patients. Meanwhile, Pfizer says that its oral pill is showing efficacy against Omicron in lab tests. Dr. Jen Caudle joins CBSN to break down some of the latest coronavirus headlines.
Omicron pushes Missouri hospitals to the brink
At St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City, COVID-19 hospitalizations have tripled in recent weeks. Few of those patients are vaccinated. Carter Evans has more.
Omicron continues to overwhelm U.S. hospitals
The Biden administration is planning to give out 400 million free N95 masks to Americans in the coming weeks as the coronavirus surge tightens its grip on hospitals in hard-hit areas of the country. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans reports from Missouri, where COVID-19 hospitalizations are rising among the unvaccinated. Then, Dr. Payal Patel, an infectious disease physician at the University of Michigan Medical School, joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss the latest.
Biden to hold first 2022 press conference
President Biden is set to hold his first formal news conference of 2022. It comes a day ahead of the first anniversary of his presidency. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joined CBSN to discuss.
Omicron could force many restaurants to close
The surge of Omicron cases in the U.S. is putting thousands of restaurants at risk of closing for good. While the Biden administration set aside more than $28 billion in the American Rescue Plan for restaurants, that aid didn't reach every business that needed help. CBS MoneyWatch reporter Megan Cerullo joined CBSN to discuss.
Website for free COVID-19 tests launches
Americans are now able to order free, at-home COVID-19 test kits. The website went live on Tuesday, one day before its official launch. Ed O'Keefe reports.
Free home COVID tests amid Omicron surge
The Biden administration is offering four free at-home COVID testing kits per household as much of the U.S. is still confronting a surge of Omicron cases. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports, then Dr. Dyan Hes, founder of Gramercy Pediatrics, joins CBSN to discuss this and other coronavirus news.
England is about to drop virtually all anti-COVID restrictions
Prime Minister Boris Johnson says thanks to booster shots and people following the rules, the Omicron wave "has now peaked" in the U.K., so the rules are being lifted.
North Carolina hospitals overwhelmed
COVID-19 infections are continuing to surge in parts of the U.S. In North Carolina, recent data shows one in three people tested positive for the virus. And some local hospitals are struggling to keep up. CBS News national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez reports from Charlotte.
Biden admin offers free at-home COVID tests
Some Americans were able to order free at-home COVID-19 tests Tuesday, one day before the government's official website was set to roll out. The Omicron-driven surge continued to rage in parts of the country, while some early hot spots are seeing a decline in cases. CBS news national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez reports on the recent spike in cases nationwide. Then, Dr. Ben Weston, an associate professor in the department of emergency medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin, joins CBSN to discuss the latest.
Omicron drives "hellacious" worker shortages
A "Great American Sickout," thanks to the spread of the Omicron variant is forcing businesses to cope with worker shortages as the U.S. struggles to combat the spread of the coronavirus. CBS News MoneyWatch reporter Amy Picchi joins CBSN with more.
Omicron slows in parts of the U.S.
The Omicron surge is slowing in parts of the U.S., but Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical adviser to the president, warns the variant may not be the end of the pandemic. The COVID death rate in Los Angeles County is the highest it's been in 10 months. Dr. Jerry Abraham, director of vaccine programs at Kedren Health in Los Angeles, joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero with more.
Omicron could force more restaurant closures
"Whether we reopen is completely contingent on whether we receive RRF funding," said one restaurant owner.
South Africa is over Omicron, and that may be good news for the U.S.
Scientists believe the country has "reached a turning point in this pandemic," and their experience, along with similar pictures emerging in the U.K. and New York, is cause for optimism.
Live
Iran's foreign minister rejects talk of dialogue with U.S. as strikes continue
The war, which shows no signs of ending soon, has disrupted oil exports from the region, driven fuel prices far higher worldwide and upended global air travel.
Who won Oscars for 2026? See the full winners list here
"One Battle After Another" took home several big awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and the newly created Best Casting.
U.S. searches for answers to Iran's arsenal of cheap drones
The Iran war is testing the U.S. military's ability to combat Iran's drones in a cost-effective way. Emerging laser tech, designed to zap drones out of the sky, may help.
Exclusive
U.S. intel shows Iran's late leader was wary of son in power, sources say
U.S. intelligence has circulated to President Trump's inner circle that Iran's late supreme leader had misgivings about his son replacing him, viewing Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as not very bright.
Not just gas: Grocery prices could be hit by Strait of Hormuz closure
Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz threaten to drive U.S. gas prices to record highs. The attacks could also have a cascading effect on other prices.
Weather threats bring blizzard conditions, early heat wave to parts of U.S.
More than 11.5 million people are under blizzard warnings, another 4.3 million are under winter storm warnings, and about 20.6 million are under an extreme heat watch, according to forecasters.
Iranian foreign minister says "we don't see any reason" to talk with U.S.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that "we don't see any reason why we should talk with Americans" as President Trump has claimed Iran is seeking a deal to end the war between the U.S. and Iran.
Exclusive
FCC Chair Brendan Carr says broadcast licenses are not a "property right"
In an exclusive interview with CBS News Saturday, Federal Communications Chair Brendan Carr doubled down on his warning that broadcast licenses could be revoked amid President Trump's criticisms of media coverage of the war in Iran.
IDF says Michigan synagogue suspect's brother was Hezbollah commander
The Israel Defense Forces said Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali was responsible for managing weapons operations for the unit within the U.S.-designated terrorist group.
U.S.
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U.S. beats Dominican Republic 2-1 to advance to WBC final
The United States will face the winner of Monday's semifinal between Italy and Venezuela in Tuesday's World Baseball Classic title game.
"All the Empty Rooms" wins Oscar for memorializing kids killed in school shootings
The film follows CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp through their seven-year journey to document the toll of America's school shooting epidemic.
A tie at 2026 Oscars for Best Live-Action Short marks 7th rare award moment
As Kumail Nanjiani took the stage to announce the winner for Best Live-Action Short at the 98th annual Academy Awards, the actor exclaimed: "And the Oscar goes to ... it's a tie."
Who won Oscars for 2026? See the full winners list here
"One Battle After Another" took home several big awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and the newly created Best Casting.
March Madness bracket set as Duke nabs top overall seed
Duke is the top overall seed in the NCAA men's college basketball tournament, with Arizona, Michigan, and Florida also landing on the No. 1 line.
MoneyWatch
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How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Politics
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Crenshaw on primary loss: "Are you going to believe everything you read online?"
Rep. Dan Crenshaw, whose term as representative of Texas' 2nd congressional district is set to end following his loss in the Republican primary earlier this month, appeared on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Sunday.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and Rep. Dan Crenshaw join Margaret Brennan.
Transcript: Sen. Mark Warner on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Sen. Mark Warner, Democrat of Virginia, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on March 15, 2026.
Transcript: Kevin Hassett on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on March 15, 2026.
Transcript: Rep. Dan Crenshaw on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Rep. Dan Crenshaw, Republican of Texas, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on March 15, 2026.
HealthWatch
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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.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
World
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U.S. beats Dominican Republic 2-1 to advance to WBC final
The United States will face the winner of Monday's semifinal between Italy and Venezuela in Tuesday's World Baseball Classic title game.
Crenshaw on primary loss: "Are you going to believe everything you read online?"
Rep. Dan Crenshaw, whose term as representative of Texas' 2nd congressional district is set to end following his loss in the Republican primary earlier this month, appeared on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Sunday.
U.S. beats Canada in Para ice hockey final to complete Team USA sweep
The U.S. became the first nation to sweep the hockey tournaments at the Olympics and Paralympics.
IDF says Michigan synagogue suspect's brother was Hezbollah commander
The Israel Defense Forces said Ibrahim Muhammad Ghazali was responsible for managing weapons operations for the unit within the U.S.-designated terrorist group.
Transcript: Sen. Mark Warner on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Sen. Mark Warner, Democrat of Virginia, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on March 15, 2026.
Entertainment
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"All the Empty Rooms" wins Oscar for memorializing kids killed in school shootings
The film follows CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman and photographer Lou Bopp through their seven-year journey to document the toll of America's school shooting epidemic.
Movie theaters still struggling with attendance
The North American box office grossed $9 billion last year, far below pre-pandemic numbers. One survey found only half of Americans said they saw a movie in theaters last year. Gwen Baumgardner reports.
A tie at 2026 Oscars for Best Live-Action Short marks 7th rare award moment
As Kumail Nanjiani took the stage to announce the winner for Best Live-Action Short at the 98th annual Academy Awards, the actor exclaimed: "And the Oscar goes to ... it's a tie."
Who won Oscars for 2026? See the full winners list here
"One Battle After Another" took home several big awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and the newly created Best Casting.
3/15: Sunday Morning
Hosted by Mo Rocca. Featured: Hollywood, the Dream Factory; "Peaky Blinders" actor Cillian Murphy; Marc Jacobs and Sofia Coppola; John Mayer and McG preserve a Hollywood landmark; a Russian schoolteacher's resistance documented in "Mr. Nobody Against Putin"; and a tribute to documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman.
Technology
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Technology
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.
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.
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.
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.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
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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.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Judge in Charlie Kirk murder case makes ruling on media access
Prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty for Tyler Robinson, 22, who is charged with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of Charlie Kirk.
FBI: Synagogue attacker died by suicide
The suspect in the Michigan synagogue attack died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the FBI said at a news conference on Friday. CBS News correspondent Ash-har Quraishi has the latest.
Officials give update on synagogue attack
Officials in Michigan gave an update about Thursday's synagogue car ramming attack that the FBI is investigating as a "targeted act of violence against the Jewish community." CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more.
Space
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Space
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.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
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
Nearly $1 million raised for DoorDash driver
Richard Pulley, 78, says he was forced out of retirement and had to pick up a DoorDash gig after his wife unexpectedly lost her job. Jericka Duncan reports on what happened when one person saw him dropping off her delivery.
U.S. tourism pain from lack of Canadian visitors
Resorts nationwide are dealing with a big drop in international visitors. That's being felt especially hard in Whitefish, Montana, about 60 miles south of the U.S.-Canada border. Andres Gutierrez reports.
Movie theaters still struggling with attendance
The North American box office grossed $9 billion last year, far below pre-pandemic numbers. One survey found only half of Americans said they saw a movie in theaters last year. Gwen Baumgardner reports.
Airline CEOs tell Congress to fund DHS
The CEOs of ten major U.S. airlines are demanding Congress end a funding standoff and pay TSA workers. In a letter, they claim 93% of Americans support paying aviation workers during government shutdowns. Tim McNicholas has more.
Massive snowstorm hits Midwest, Great Lakes
A major snowstorm is blasting the Midwest and Great Lakes with blizzard conditions and what could be record snow. Ian Lee has a report on the conditions and Andrew Kozak has a look at the forecast.