A COVID variant called "Cicada" is spreading. Here's what to know.
The COVID-19 variant BA.3.2, nicknamed "Cicada," has been detected in at least 23 countries and half the states in the U.S.
Omicron Variant
U.S. COVID hospitalizations steadily rising
COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased significantly over the past month and are expected to continue rising, according to the latest numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meanwhile, demand for in-person and at-home COVID tests is also surging. Elaine Quijano has details.
Highly mutated strain of new COVID variant reported in Michigan
Cases of the new COVID variant BA.2.86 have been spotted in Michigan, Denmark and Israel.
2/2: CBS News Mornings
Central and Northeastern U.S. bracing for snow, ice, frigid temperatures; Teen's initiative sends thousands of books to hospitals and schools
3/14: CBS News Mornings
Dozens reported killed as Russia expands assault in western Ukraine; Guest worker visa applications soar amid labor shortage
CDC tracking new COVID variant EU.1.1
Nearly 100 cases of the COVID variant EU.1.1 have been reported in Utah — more than any other state.
New variant XBB.1.5 now more than a quarter of U.S. cases
XBB.1.5's prevalence remains highest in the Northeast, according to the CDC's latest estimates.
Examining the new COVID travel policy from China
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Wednesday that, beginning Jan. 5, all travelers coming to the U.S. from China will have to test negative for COVID-19 before boarding flights. Associated Press reporter Dake Kang spoke with CBS News about China's struggles with COVID-19.
BF.7: What to know about the Omicron COVID variant
Although reports from China about this variant's characteristics are concerning, it doesn't appear to be growing too much elsewhere in the world.
CDC says it's now tracking a new COVID variant known as XBB
The XBB variant has climbed to 3.1% of new COVID cases nationwide, the CDC now estimates.
In his final COVID briefing, Fauci hopes for less deadly COVID wave this winter
The president's outgoing chief medical adviser pointed to new CDC data suggesting the updated boosters will increase protection against infection.
CDC now tracking BN.1, the latest new COVID variant on the rise
The strain has climbed to make up 4.3% of new COVID-19 cases nationwide.
Special Report: Biden speaks on fight against COVID
President Biden updated the nation on his administration's efforts to contain COVID-19, announcing that he was doubling and accelerating the U.S. order for a Pfizer antiviral pill, and also that insurance companies would reimburse Americans for home tests. He urged Americans to get vaccinations and boosters. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes and CBS News medical contributor Dr. David Agus join the CBS News Special Report to discuss the president's remarks.
NIH investigates Boston University COVID experiments amid controversy
Boston University says its research with "chimeric recombinant" viruses did not lead to a "gain of function."
11/29: CBSN AM
Omicron variant threatens U.S. recovery efforts; Hanukkah ceremonies and celebrations underway worldwide
"Pretty troublesome": New COVID variant BQ.1 growing rapidly
The CDC said BQ.1 and one of its descendants, BQ.1.1, represent "a small but fast-growing subset of the Omicron variant."
New COVID boosters for kids 5 and up
Children ages 5 and up are now eligible to get the new COVID-19 booster shots, which target both the original coronavirus and its Omicron variants. CBS News medical contributor Dr. David Agus joins us to discuss the vaccine, and he also answers questions about a new study on colonoscopies.
Back-to-school COVID-19 safety concerns
As we head into another school year, some parents are concerned over the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions in the classroom. Only about 30% of elementary school-aged kids are fully vaccinated, and experts warn the U.S. could see another fall or winter surge of cases. Dr. Mark Kline, physician-in-chief at Children's Hospital New Orleans, joins CBS News to discuss.
12/19: Face The Nation
This week on "Face the Nation," there is frustration and fear as we head into the holiday season, amid what top U.S. health officials are calling an incoming tidal wave of COVID cases.
FDA authorizes Omicron booster shots
New COVID booster shots that target the latest Omicron variants could be available within days, after the FDA authorized the updated boosters made by Pfizer and Moderna.
Dr. Agus answers questions on COVID rebound
CBS News medical contributor Dr. David Agus explains why COVID-19 cases sometimes "rebound" in patients who were treated with Paxlovid. He also answers viewers' questions about Omicron subvariants and whether there's a risk of catching monkeypox at the gym.
China fights COVID outbreak
What's behind the spike in COVID cases in China, and what the government is trying to do to combat it? Ben Cowling, the head of the Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Hong Kong University, joins CBS News to discuss.
CDC warns of more contagious sub-variant
Health officials are warning Americans to continue to take caution against COVID-19. Lenny Bernstein, a health reporter for The Washington Post, discusses the concerns over a sub-variant called BA.2.
Vaccine-resistant COVID could develop
So far, COVID-19 vaccines have continued to offer some protection against variants. But a vaccine-resistant strain could develop in the future. Dr. Mark Dybul, the CEO of Enochian Biosciences, joins CBSN's "Red & Blue" anchor Elaine Quijano to discuss the risk, as well as the latest data on Pfizer's antiviral pill.
Omicron subvariant BA.5 driving U.S. COVID cases
Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 now account for more than nine out of 10 new COVID-19 infections in the U.S. CBS News reporter Alexander Tin joined "Red and Blue" to discuss the latest numbers from the CDC.
Live
U.S. disables ship for allegedly violating Iran blockade amid Strait of Hormuz feud
For the first time since President Trump reinstated a blockade on Iranian ports, the U.S. military disabled a ship that allegedly tried get through it, to head for Kharg Island.
Sons say they learned father was killed by ICE through video, news reports
Ronaldo Salgado said he learned his father, 52-year-old Mexican immigrant Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, had been shot by an ICE officer in Houston last week through a video posted online that depicted him "screaming" for help.
Trump to allege Chinese meddling in U.S. elections in primetime speech, sources say
Part of President Trump's speech Thursday night is expected to touch on previously unreported alleged Chinese meddling in U.S. elections, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Hegseth requires testosterone deficiency screening for service members over 30
The Pentagon will now require service members over 30 to screen for testosterone deficiency, and if needed, they can elect to have testosterone replacement therapy.
First on CBS
GPS data tracks boat Nolan Wells was on before he went missing
GPS data from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, obtained by CBS News, tracks the movements of the boat that carried Nolan Wells to Horn Island on July 4.
U.S. citizen departs Iran after being barred from leaving for over a year
A U.S.-Iranian woman who was trapped in Iran on allegations of espionage and collaborating with a hostile state that her attorney called "bogus" has departed the country, CBS News learned Wednesday.
Pentagon proposes new secrecy power to withhold unclassified records from FOIA
The legislative proposal would allow the defense secretary to withhold "controlled unclassified information," potentially curbing public access to a wide range of defense records.
Tim Scott doesn't rule out Darline Graham running for her brother Lindsey's Senate seat
With this year's race to succeed Lindsey Graham in the Senate still wide-open, GOP Sen. Tim Scott suggested the late senator's interim replacement — his sister, Darline Graham — could be one candidate.
Trump overturns pause of ICE vehicle stops implemented after deadly shootings
Neither of the victims of the ICE shootings in Maine or Texas were the target of enforcement operations, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
U.S.
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U.S. to impose 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports over unfair trade practices
The United States is imposing 25% tariffs on imports from Brazil after finding a range of what it deemed unfair trade practices by the world's 10th-biggest economy.
Sons say they learned father was killed by ICE through video, news reports
Ronaldo Salgado said he learned his father, 52-year-old Mexican immigrant Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, had been shot by an ICE officer in Houston last week through a video posted online that depicted him "screaming" for help.
2 families sue hospital after Colorado man claims he was switched at birth
Two years ago, Jeremy Morrison took a DNA test and found out his parents were not biological actual parents.
Tim Scott doesn't rule out Darline Graham running for her brother Lindsey's Senate seat
With this year's race to succeed Lindsey Graham in the Senate still wide-open, GOP Sen. Tim Scott suggested the late senator's interim replacement — his sister, Darline Graham — could be one candidate.
United Airlines anticipates $6 billion in added fuel costs
U.S. airlines say higher jet fuel prices are costing them billions more than they anticipated at the beginning of the year.
MoneyWatch
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U.S. to impose 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports over unfair trade practices
The United States is imposing 25% tariffs on imports from Brazil after finding a range of what it deemed unfair trade practices by the world's 10th-biggest economy.
United Airlines anticipates $6 billion in added fuel costs
U.S. airlines say higher jet fuel prices are costing them billions more than they anticipated at the beginning of the year.
Here's what the Common Cents Act means for businesses, consumers
New law aims to address how businesses and consumers should transact amid the phase-out of the penny.
Subaru recalls more than 541,000 vehicles over labeling error
Erroneous labels on some Subaru Crosstrek, Forester and Ascent cars could increase the risk of a crash, NHTSA said.
U.S. Mint to make $1 gold coin with Trump's face on it
It's the latest effort by President Trump to make his mark on Washington, D.C.
Politics
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Sons say they learned father was killed by ICE through video, news reports
Ronaldo Salgado said he learned his father, 52-year-old Mexican immigrant Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, had been shot by an ICE officer in Houston last week through a video posted online that depicted him "screaming" for help.
U.S. citizen departs Iran after being barred from leaving for over a year
A U.S.-Iranian woman who was trapped in Iran on allegations of espionage and collaborating with a hostile state that her attorney called "bogus" has departed the country, CBS News learned Wednesday.
Tim Scott doesn't rule out Darline Graham running for her brother Lindsey's Senate seat
With this year's race to succeed Lindsey Graham in the Senate still wide-open, GOP Sen. Tim Scott suggested the late senator's interim replacement — his sister, Darline Graham — could be one candidate.
Pentagon proposes new secrecy power to withhold unclassified records from FOIA
The legislative proposal would allow the defense secretary to withhold "controlled unclassified information," potentially curbing public access to a wide range of defense records.
Trump to allege Chinese meddling in U.S. elections in primetime speech, sources say
Part of President Trump's speech Thursday night is expected to touch on previously unreported alleged Chinese meddling in U.S. elections, according to sources familiar with the matter.
HealthWatch
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Introducing Norah O'Donnell's new health podcast
"Healthful with Norah O'Donnell" launches July 22.
Alzheimer's blood test may show who's likely to develop it in 5 to 10 years
A blood test may predict if apparently healthy older adults are likely to develop Alzheimer's symptoms in the next five or 10 years, researchers say.
Taco Bell removes some items amid outbreak
As of Tuesday, nearly 7,000 people in 34 states reported symptoms tied to a parasitic illness that, so far, has no official source. Carter Evans reports on what's suspected of being behind the cyclosporiasis outbreak.
Cyclospora outbreak leaves consumers guessing which foods are safe
Officials are still searching for the source of the outbreak, prompting consumers to seek advice on social media about which foods to avoid.
"Miracle on the Hudson" pilot, Capt. "Sully," shares Alzheimer's diagnosis
Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, who famously landed a passenger jet on the Hudson River in 2009, said he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
World
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U.S. to impose 25% tariffs on Brazilian imports over unfair trade practices
The United States is imposing 25% tariffs on imports from Brazil after finding a range of what it deemed unfair trade practices by the world's 10th-biggest economy.
U.S. citizen departs Iran after being barred from leaving for over a year
A U.S.-Iranian woman who was trapped in Iran on allegations of espionage and collaborating with a hostile state that her attorney called "bogus" has departed the country, CBS News learned Wednesday.
Argentina rallies past bitter rival England to book spot in World Cup final
Defending World Cup champion Argentina rallied to edge England 2-1 to advance to Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium, where they will face Spain.
House vote to end Israel aid divides Democrats, with 103 voting in favor
The amendment, which had no chance of passing, put Democrats in a politically tough spot
Exclusive
Senior defense officials looking at Cuba military options
Military planners have examined options for possible action against Cuba, including an Army-led air assault involving the 101st Airborne Division.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Behind the "Better in Person" talk show
Author and journalist Stephen Dubner, who rose to fame when he co-wrote The New York Times bestseller "Freakonomics," talks with "CBS Mornings" about launching his own weekly talk show on YouTube, "Better in Person." Dubner discusses how the show got its start, his wide range of guests and why he decided to self-finance it.
Insider at "The Wolf of Wall Street" firm opens up: "My lifestyle was insane"
The Paramount+ documentary "The Real Wolf of Wall Street" gives an inside look at Jordan Belfort's scandal-ridden firm, Stratton Oakmont.
Gelfand on "The Real Wolf of Wall Street"
"The Real Wolf of Wall Street," a new documentary from See It Now Studios on Paramount+, focuses on the real-life story of infamous stockbroker Jordan Belfort and his brokerage firm Stratton Oakmont. Howie Gelfand, a former partner at Stratton Oakmont, explains why he decided to be part of the documentary and how the 2013 film, "The Wolf of Wall Street," starring Leonardo DiCaprio, got the real story wrong.
Alan Ritchson on thriller "Motor City"
Alan Ritchson talks about starring in "Motor City," which has nearly no dialogue, how his process was different and why he thinks it will resonate with audiences.
States sue to block Paramount-WBD merger
A coalition of a dozen states on Monday sued to block Paramount Skydance's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, posing a new challenge to the $110 billion deal that would unite two of the nation's largest media companies. Paramount Skydance is the parent company of CBS News. CBS News' Jo Ling Kent reports.
Technology
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Technology
Samsung set to unveil new foldable phones
Tech giant Samsung is set to debut a new line of foldable phones at its Galaxy Unpacked event next week. CNET senior technology reporter Abrar Al-Heeti joins CBS News to discuss.
Details on New York data center moratorium
New York has become the first state in the U.S. to impose a moratorium on the construction of massive AI data centers. The pause takes effect immediately and halts the construction of new data centers for up to a year. Paris Marx, a technology podcast host, joins CBS News to discuss.
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.
Backlash grows nationwide over data centers
There's growing backlash nationwide against AI data centers and now New York is hitting pause. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an executive order to delay the building boom. Kelly O'Grady has more.
26 Meta workers sue over alleged AI-aided layoffs of employees on leave
A group of 26 Meta employees has sued the company, claiming it used AI to choose people for layoffs, disproportionately targeting those on medical, parental or family leave.
Science
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Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Astronomer's name deciphered from ancient Mayan ruins for first time
The name "White-chested Fox" was found in drawings dating from 400 BC to 900 AD at the San Bartolo-Xultun archaeological site.
Disclosure Foundation head on new UFO files
The Pentagon on Friday released a new batch of UFO files, spanning 19 videos and more. Jordan Flowers, executive director of the Disclosure Foundation, joins CBS News to discuss.
Watch: Pentagon releases 19 new UFO videos
The Defense Department released a fourth batch of UFO files on Friday, nearly one month after its third drop. These are all of the videos in the latest tranche, plus analysis from astrophysicist Avi Loeb.
2,000-year-old gold rings and human bones found by archaeologists
Archaeologists have discovered eight human skeletons, bronze and gold jewelry and other artifacts indicating a ceremonial burial of wealthy people.
Crime
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Crime
Biddeford, Maine, mayor on ICE shooting
Liam LaFountain, mayor of Biddeford, Maine, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss his town's response to Monday's incident where an ICE officer shot and killed a man.
Nolan Wells' family meets with Mississippi DA
The parents of Nolan Wells and their legal team received assurances from the Mississippi district attorney on Wednesday that the investigation into the teenager's death would be thorough. Skyler Henry has more details on the case.
New GPS data in Nolan Wells' disappearance
CBS News has obtained GPS data showing the movements of the boat that carried Nolan Wells before he disappeared on the Fourth of July. Wells was found dead on July 6. CBS News' Anna Schecter has more.
Key moments from Jay Clayton's hearing
President Trump's nominee for director of national intelligence, Jay Clayton, testified before a Senate panel as part of his confirmation process. Taurean Small shares key takeaways from the hearing.
Booker grills Blanche about Ghislaine Maxwell
New Jersey Democratic Sen. Corey Booker grilled Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche about his meeting with Jeffrey Epstein ally and convicted criminal Ghislaine Maxwell during a Senate panel hearing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday. Booker also pressed Blanche about attending a dinner hosted by David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Skydance, as a Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger bid continues. CBS News is owned by Paramount Skydance.
Space
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Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Astronomers discover sugar in space that's also found in raspberries
The sugar, called erythrulose, lurks in what's called the interstellar medium: thin clouds of gas and dust littered between stars.
Telescope spots most distant quasars ever discovered
Quasars — the brightest objects in the universe — are powered by supermassive black holes at the heart of early galaxies.
Mission launched to rescue a falling space telescope
Katalyst Space's LINK spacecraft is designed to capture and boost NASA's Swift observatory back to a safe altitude.
NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
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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.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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?
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Deciphering letters from Revolutionary War soldiers
Americans are putting their cursive reading skills to work in service of their country. "Citizen archivists" are helping the National Archives transcribe some 2.5 million pages of handwritten Revolutionary War pension files. Natalie Brand reports.
Argentina fans rejoice after England defeat
Argentina will have a chance to defend its World Cup title after defeating England 2-1 in the semifinal. This is the second time in a row Argentina has reached the final. CBS News' Elizabeth Campbell reports on the excitement from fans.
Retired Navy vice admiral on latest Iran strikes
U.S. Central Command confirmed it began a second wave of strikes against Iran on Wednesday, following a round of attacks earlier in the day. Retired Navy Vice Adm. Robert Murrett joins CBS News to discuss.
Inside a recycling firm for electronic waste
As the technological revolution kicks into overdrive, the world is generating more electronic waste. One company is trying to reboot how we recycle our old tech. Evyn Moon takes us inside the process.
National blood emergency declared
The American Red Cross is announcing a national blood emergency with officials warning that hospitals are in dire need of blood products for emergencies and surgeries. Gwen Baumgardner has more.