Hospitals plagued by COVID-related staff shortages
The latest COVID-19 surge is straining health care workers, with many out sick. Nikki Battiste takes a look at how it's having an effect on one New Jersey hospital.
Pandemic
Jobless claims rise, but remain below pre-pandemic levels
Employers are hesitant to cut workers amid a tight labor market that offers workers more career choices.
COVID cases and hospitalizations break records
The U.S. is setting new records of daily coronavirus infections with nearly 3.9 million confirmed cases in the past seven days. CBS News correspondent Manuel Bojorquez reports on the recent COVID-19 surge nationwide and CBS Chicago's Charlie De Mar has the latest on classes being canceled at Chicago Public Schools on Wednesday. Then, Dr. Sujan Gogu, a family medicine, sports and pain medicine physician, joins CBSN's Lana Zak with analysis.
Japan turns to robot pets to combat loneliness
Japan has long had a reputation for being robot-obsessed. It is now, in increasing numbers, turning to so-called "companion robots," AI-packed androids that exist simply to make us happy — or less lonely in COVID times. Lucy Craft spoke to the inventors and people ready to embrace "man's best robot friend."
CDC adds test option to end COVID isolation
The CDC has added a testing option to end COVID isolation. Infectious disease expert Dr. Celine Gounder joins "CBS Mornings" to explain why the change was made and how it could impact the pandemic.
COVID concerns close Chicago public schools
A Chicago teachers union and the city are negotiating new COVID-related health protocols after teachers voted to return to remote learning amid a surge in cases. Charlie De Mar reports.
CDC recommends boosters for kids 12-15
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention panel recommended COVID booster shots for younger teens. Meanwhile, the Grammy Awards were postponed amid a surge in cases. Manuel Bojorquez has more.
CDC clarifies isolation guidelines
After facing backlash, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have clarified COVID-19 isolation recommendations, endorsing a five-day quarantine period and an optional test as well as shortening the time frame between the second Pfizer vaccine dose and the booster shot from six to five months. John Moore, a professor of microbiology and immunology at Weill Cornell Medical College, joins CBSN to discuss the latest coronavirus news.
U.S. tops one million daily COVID cases
More than one million new COVID cases were reported Monday, a new single-day record for the U.S. Hospitalizations and childhood infections are also setting pandemic records. Omar Villafranca reports.
COVID cases, inflation and taxes rise in U.K.
In the U.K., COVID cases are rising, inflation is up and energy prices could rise by 50% in the new year. Simon Bates has more in his segment London Calling.
Schools nationwide struggle with COVID surge
While more than 2,000 K-12 schools have already closed or moved to remote learning, millions of kids are still heading back to class on Monday, as America's major school systems learn to deal with the uncertainty of the pandemic. Tom Hanson reports.
Holiday air travel up 184% last year from 2020
The rush to return home is turning into a nightmare as millions of Americans try to navigate full freeways and jam-packed airports, compounded with bad weather and Omicron-fueled staff shortages.
Education secretary on keeping schools open
President Joe Biden says he wants all schools to stay open despite concerns over the highly contagious Omicron variant. A growing number of school districts are adjusting their return from the holiday break because of COVID-19 outbreaks and staffing shortages. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona joins CBSN's Nikki Battiste to discuss what his office is doing to help schools navigate the pandemic.
Biden unveils new effort to fight Omicron
President Biden says his administration is doubling its order of Pfizer's new COVID-19 antiviral pill from 10 million to 20 million as the Omicron variant ravages the U.S. CBS News senior White House and political correspondent Ed O'Keefe joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano with more headlines from the White House.
U.S. shatters record for new COVID cases
The U.S. recorded more than one million new COVID-19 infections on Monday. According to the CDC, the fast-spreading Omicron variant accounts for an estimated 95% of all cases. CBS News correspondent Omar Villafranca reports on the country's recent surge. Then, emergency medicine physician Dr. Hiral Tipirneni joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss the latest.
WorldView: Europe imposes new COVID measures
Many European nations are starting off the new year with new COVID-19 measures in place, as the Omicron variant drives the number of cases up. Meanwhile, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok has resigned after mass protests against a recent deal he made to share power with the army. Ian Lee reports for CBSN AM on these and other international stories.
How antiviral pills could alter the pandemic
The FDA has authorized Pfizer's COVID-19 antiviral pill for emergency use. Dr. Jodie Guest joins Elaine Quijano on CBSN's "Red & Blue" with more on the state of the pandemic.
Senator Manchin talks social spending bill
President Biden is speaking out about the White House's plan for the pandemic, while uncertainty remains about his social and climate spending plan. Representative Andy Levin joins CBSN's "Red & Blue" anchor Elaine Quijano to discuss the Build Back Better bill and the pandemic.
COVID causes airport cancellations for third day
Thousands eager to take flights faced cancellations and delays as airlines struggle with staff shortages. Both Delta and United airlines are pointing to the Omicron variant as the reason for complications. Lilia Luciano has the story.
COVID-19 surges across the country
Research shows that the Omicron variant is highly transmissible but is less likely to cause severe health complications. Tom Hansen has more.
World rings in the new year as Omicron cases surge
As 2022 begins, the U.S. is averaging nearly 400,000 a day, up a staggering 200% over the last two weeks. The CDC warns the Omicron fueled surge is incredibly dangerous for the unvaccinated. Elise Preston reports.
FDA approves booster shots for some kids
The Food and Drug Administration has authorized booster shots for kids ages 12 to 15 and immunocompromised children ages 5 to 11, in response to the Omicron variant, which is driving a surge of COVID-19 infections in the U.S. Dr. Dyan Hes, founder of Gramercy Pediatrics, joins CBSN to discuss the latest coronavirus headlines.
Millions return to school despite COVID surge
Despite surging COVID cases, millions of children returned to school after the holidays. Meanwhile on Monday, the FDA announced children as young as 12 can get a booster shot of the Pfizer vaccine, but it comes as more children are being hospitalized. Meg Oliver reports.
FDA authorizes booster for ages 12 to 15
As COVID-19 cases surge across the U.S. the FDA has authorized Pfizer booster shots for children ages 12 to 15. CBS News correspondent Meg Oliver reports on how schools are proceeding with their return to class. Then Dr. Rajeev Fernando, who specializes in global infectious diseases, joins CBSN to discuss the latest on the pandemic.
Omicron's "staggering" spread
COVID-19 records are being broken daily with an average of 365,000 new cases a day. CBS News national correspondent Mark Strassmann on the new year of the COVID chronicles.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
If caught and seized, it would be the third Venezuelan tanker taken by the U.S. this month.
Khanna says DOJ Epstein files release was a "slap in the face" to survivors
Rep. Ro Khanna said the release of an initial tranche of files and photos related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a "slap in the face of survivors," while Rep. Thomas Massie said the DOJ is "flouting the spirit and the letter of the law."
Americans weigh in on cost of living, Trump, expectations for 2026 in poll
More see Trump's policies responsible for economy today than Biden's; there are also concerns about AI impact on jobs.
Hassett says $2,000 tariff checks for Americans will depend on Congress
Director of the National Economic Council Kevin Hassett said Sunday that President Trump's idea to give Americans $2,000 checks funded by tariff revenue will "depend on what happens with Congress."
Suspected Brown and MIT professor shooter showed signs of anger, former friend says
A former friend of the man accused of the deadly Brown University shooting and killing an MIT professor described him as a "socially awkward" person who showed signs of anger during their time on campus together.
Thousands of mourners gather at Bondi Beach to honor attack victims
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whose government earlier this year recongized a Palestinian state, was booed by the crowd.
Israel's Cabinet approves 19 new settlements in West Bank
The latest approvals bring the total number of new settlements over the past two years to 69, Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich posted on social media.
MS-13 gang member sentenced to 1,335 years in prison in El Salvador
Earlier this year, the U.S. designated MS-13, which was formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants, a terrorist organization.
Rob Reiner's friends and colleagues share fond and funny memories
Friends and colleagues of Rob Reiner sat down with CBS News to share personal anecdotes and fond memories of him following the news of his tragic death.
U.S.
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Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Georgetown coach suspended for one game for water bottle throw
Georgetown men's basketball coach Ed Cooley was suspended by the school on Sunday for one game after throwing a water bottle into the stands at the end of a loss to Xavier the night before.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna join Margaret Brennan.
Khanna says DOJ Epstein files release was a "slap in the face" to survivors
Rep. Ro Khanna said the release of an initial tranche of files and photos related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a "slap in the face of survivors," while Rep. Thomas Massie said the DOJ is "flouting the spirit and the letter of the law."
Hassett says $2,000 tariff checks for Americans will depend on Congress
Director of the National Economic Council Kevin Hassett said Sunday that President Trump's idea to give Americans $2,000 checks funded by tariff revenue will "depend on what happens with Congress."
MoneyWatch
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Rome introduces tourist fee for some Trevi fountain visitors
Tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain are now going to pay more than just the legendary coin toss over their shoulder.
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Trump reaches deal with 9 major drugmakers to lower prices
Nine drug manufacturers will offer their drugs to Medicaid recipients at most-favored-nation discounts in exchange for tariff exemptions.
Judge in nursing home bankruptcy case gives families fresh hope
A bankruptcy judge blocked an attempt by a nursing home chain's primary investor to shield himself from settlement payments and liability in lawsuits over allegations of poor care.
Politics
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Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna join Margaret Brennan.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
If caught and seized, it would be the third Venezuelan tanker taken by the U.S. this month.
Khanna says DOJ Epstein files release was a "slap in the face" to survivors
Rep. Ro Khanna said the release of an initial tranche of files and photos related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a "slap in the face of survivors," while Rep. Thomas Massie said the DOJ is "flouting the spirit and the letter of the law."
Transcript: Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Transcript: UNICEF's Catherine Russell on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Flu cases surging nationwide
Flu cases are on the rise across the country with CDC data showing more than 4 million illnesses this season resulting in roughly 2,000 deaths, including two children. Dr. Benjamin Abella, chair of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, joined CBS News to discuss.
This professional Santa's dream of spreading holiday cheer fuels stroke recovery
Brent Rasmussen had a massive stroke in 2023. Getting his "ho ho ho back" helped motivate his recovery.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Inside the FDA's vaccine uproar
A memo from Dr. Vinay Prasad, the head of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, may signal an effort to to rewrite the rules governing the U.S. vaccine system.
Trump administration unveils proposals to cut off transgender care for minors
The proposals run counter to the recommendations of most major U.S. medical organizations.
World
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12 bodies found outside Guatemala City linked to gang violence, officials say
At least 12 bodies were found in three days in a wooded area on the outskirts of Guatemala City, authorities said Sunday, linking the discovery to gang violence.
MS-13 gang member sentenced to 1,335 years in prison in El Salvador
Earlier this year, the U.S. designated MS-13, which was formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants, a terrorist organization.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
If caught and seized, it would be the third Venezuelan tanker taken by the U.S. this month.
Thousands gather for winter solstice celebrations at Stonehenge
Many make the pilgrimage to the stone circle every summer and winter and consider it a spiritual experience.
Transcript: Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Entertainment
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Actor James Ransone, known for his role in "The Wire," dies at 46
James Ransone, the actor who played Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series "The Wire" and appeared in many other TV shows and movies, has died.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Jolly Toyland"
To mark the Christmas season, "Sunday Morning" presents a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, of "Jolly Toyland," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Deck the Halls"
"Sunday Morning" gifts to its viewers a Christmas tradition: a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City. They present "Deck the Halls," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez and Jim Papoulis.
Sean Ono Lennon on being caretaker of the legacy of John Lennon & Yoko Ono
The musician-songwriter-producer, who says he feels a responsibility to promote his parents' legacy, talks about the animated short inspired by their anti-war anthem, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)," and the new HBO documentary "One to One: John & Yoko."
Extended interview: Sean Ono Lennon
In this web exclusive, Sean Ono Lennon talks with Anthony Mason about The Claypool Lennon Delirium, his musical collaboration with Les Claypool of Primus, and his upcoming jazz album. He also discusses his animated short film, "War Is Over!"; his custodianship of the musical legacy of his parents, John Lennon and Yoko Ono; how concert footage and previously-unknown private recordings came together in the documentary "One to One"; and how creating art is "a fundamental force" in his life.
Technology
More Technology
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
DraftKings hopes to score big with new prediction markets app
Sports betting companies face mounting competition from rapidly growing prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket.
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.
Japanese woman marries AI boyfriend
People are starting to develop lasting connections with artificial technology. Melissa J. Perry, the dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University, joins CBS News with more details.
TikTok nears deal to avoid U.S. ban
TikTok has signed a deal to sell its U.S. operations to a group of investors in America, a source familiar with the deal tells CBS News. Jo Ling Kent has more.
Science
More Science
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Khanna on full Epstein file release
Reps. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, and Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, who pushed for the Justice Department to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, said the problem with the release isn't that it's "taking too long" and but that Friday's release is a "slap in the face of survivors."
Police seek motive in deadly shootings
Authorities are seeking motive after the man responsible for the deadly shooting at Brown University and the murder of an MIT professor was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday.
Epstein survivor on partial files release
The Justice Department released a new batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday. Epstein survivor Sharlene Rochard joins with her reaction. Then, Spencer Kuvin, an attorney who represents some Epstein survivors, provides further analysis.
New photos in initial trove of Epstein files
The Justice Department on Friday released a batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Erica Brown and Katrina Kaufman report.
Investigators struggled to ID Brown suspect while gunman went on to kill again
The manhunt for the Brown University shooter was complicated by the early misidentification of a person of interest and limited, low-quality video footage.
Space
More Space
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
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.
"Son of Sam": A serial killer's reign of terror
Calling himself the "Son of Sam" in a letter left at one of the crime scenes, David Berkowitz claimed voices were ordering him to kill -- starting in the summer of 1976, he went on a 13-month spree of impulse killings in New York City that left six dead and seven injured
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Riding along on the CPKC Holiday Train
Canadian Pacific Railway decked out its first holiday train 27 years ago. Now merged with Kansas City Southern and known as CPKC, the company is delivering festive fun all across North America. Lana Zak started her travels in Milwaukee.
Inside the idea of 50-year mortgages
Carter Evans reports on the perceived benefits and downsides of 50-year mortgages.
Flu cases surging nationwide
Flu cases are on the rise across the country with CDC data showing more than 4 million illnesses this season resulting in roughly 2,000 deaths, including two children. Dr. Benjamin Abella, chair of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, joined CBS News to discuss.
Thousands honor Bondi Beach victims
On the final night of Hanukkah, thousands came to Bondi Beach to honor the victims of last week's targeted attack in Australia. Leigh Kiniry has more.
Power coming back online in San Francisco
Most of the lights in San Francisco are back on after a power outage left about 130,000 customers in the dark. Nicole Valdes has more.