CDC's new acting director faces looming decisions on vaccines
Deputy HHS secretary Jim O'Neill is also serving as acting CDC director as RFK Jr.'s newly appointed vaccine advisory panel prepares for its first meeting.
RSV
Vaccine guidance for adults with heart disease
The American College of Cardiology put out updated vaccine guidance Tuesday for adults with heart disease, recommending those patients receive the vaccines for the flu, pneumococcal and COVID-19. People over 50 are advised to get vaccinated for RSV and shingles. Dr. Deepak Bhatt, director for the Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital, joined CBS News to discuss the new recommendations.
Pediatric group recommends COVID-19 vaccines
For the first time in 30 years, a leading pediatric group is sharing vaccine recommendations that differ from the guidance of the federal government. The American Academy of Pediatrics is strongly recommending COVID-19 shots for children between the ages of 6 months and 2 years old. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder has more.
RFK Jr.'s vaccine committee votes against rarely used flu shot preservative
The votes on vaccine recommendations are the first move by the panel after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. replaced all its members.
RFK Jr.'s new vaccine panel makes decisions
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s new panel of vaccine advisers to the Centers for Disease Control made its first decisions on Thursday. It's their first official move after Kennedy Jr. fired the former experts, replacing them with his own picks. CBS News health reporter Alex Tin has more.
Doctor worried as CDC panel rethinks RSV shots
New CDC vaccine advisors who share RFK Jr.'s skepticism about immunizations are reviewing a long-standing vaccine guidance for infants. Elaine Quijano spoke to a doctor who is concerned about the focus on risks over benefits.
CDC panel postpones RSV vaccine vote
The new vaccine advisory panel for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention postponed a much-awaited vote on RSV vaccines on Wednesday. CBS News health reporter Alex Tin has more.
Respiratory illness RSV on the rise
A respiratory illness that's spreading rapidly this year can be dangerous for infants and young children. The flu-like virus is known as RSV. Adriana Diaz reports.
4 viruses on the rise across the U.S.
Cases of COVID, flu, RSV and norovirus appear to be on the rise in the U.S. as millions of Americans wrap up the holidays. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder has more on the viruses.
Tips to avoid illness this winter
Respiratory viruses tend to spread more easily around the winter holidays. Dr. Peter Hotez joins "The Daily Report" to discuss how to avoid COVID-19, the flu, RSV and other illnesses.
Now's the perfect time for your flu and COVID shots. Here's why.
If you still haven't gotten your COVID or flu shot, now is the time so you'll stay protected throughout the season, according to doctors.
Do I have COVID, the flu or something else? 2024 symptoms to know.
But what kind of sickness do your symptoms point to? Here's a breakdown for COVID-19, flu and more — and why testing is so important.
FDA approves first RSV vaccine for adults in their 50s
The RSV vaccine by GSK was previously approved only for adults 60 and older.
CDC shortens 5-day COVID isolation, updates guidance on masks, testing
The new recommendations apply to COVID-19 and other viruses, like flu and RSV.
Flu cases on the rise after holiday season
Cases of respiratory viruses are climbing across the U.S. after weeks of decline, according to new CDC data. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins CBS News with his advice to stay safe during flu season.
Viral infections on the rise, CDC says
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is raising concerns about increasing hospitalizations for COVID-19, RSV and the flu. The group says infections are on the rise as fewer people are getting their vaccinations. Lilia Luciano reports.
New vaccine advice for fall virus season
Health officials have updated advice for protecting against seasonal viruses. Dr. Celine Gounder explains what's new this year and who will need a COVID-19 booster.
Surge in pediatric RSV cases strains hospitals
Children's hospitals across the U.S. are seeing a surge in pediatric cases of respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV — and some are struggling to find enough beds for all of their patients. One doctor said the early and rapid rise in cases is a sign of a "rough winter season" ahead.
Flu cases in some Southern states on the rise
Nationally, the number of flu cases has decreased. But in some Southern states, flu activity is still high, including in Dallas County, Texas, where almost 20% of tests are positive. Omar Villafranca reports.
COVID variant JN.1 spreads across U.S.
A sharp uptick in emergency room visits and hospitalizations for COVID-19, influenza and RSV began in mid-December, and a COVID variant called JN.1 is rapidly spreading.. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins CBS News with the data and what to know about the variant.
COVID-19 cases are rising. What do you need to know now?
The COVID-19 virus is continually changing, and a recent subvariant, the JN.1, is rapidly climbing the charts.
Identifying severe flu symptoms in children
Flu cases are surging nationwide and 27 children are among those who have died this flu season. One hospital shares ways to be on the lookout for respiratory issues. Janet Shamlian reports.
Pediatric respiratory illnesses surging
The new year is bringing a surge in cases of RSV and the flu among kids. Hospitals across the country are dealing with a surge in cases and, in some cases, a lack of beds. Janet Shamlian reports.
CDC: ER visits for respiratory viruses spike
Health officials across the country are closely monitoring a triple threat of RSV, COVID and the flu that's causing a jump in hospital visits. Dr. Tucker Woods, chair of the emergency department at Lenox Health in New York, joined CBS News to discuss the illnesses and how to protect yourself.
Health officials are monitoring a triple threat of respiratory illnesses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is tracking the spread of the flu, RSV and COVID-19 this winter.
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.
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.
Major outage leaves more than 130,000 customers in San Francisco without power
About 30% of San Francisco was without power at the height of the outage, according to utility provider PG&E.
DOJ releases trove of Epstein files including photos, grand jury testimonies
The Justice Department has released records from the Epstein files, the first documents to come to light under a new law signed by President Trump.
U.S. seizes a second vessel off the coast of Venezuela
It's the second time in recent weeks that the United States has interdicted a tanker, and it comes amid a large U.S. military build-up in Latin America.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
At least 9 killed, 10 wounded in shooting in South Africa, authorities say
"Some victims were randomly shot in the streets by unknown gunmen," the police said of the incident.
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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The enduring message of "It's a Wonderful Life"
Ted Koppel visits Seneca Falls, the Central New York town that's said to have inspired the 1946 Jimmy Stewart classic "It's a Wonderful Life," a film that celebrates smalltown virtues and happy endings, and which still has a powerful hold on our imagination.
Winning numbers announced for estimated $1.5 billion Powerball jackpot
Saturday's jackpot has an estimated cash value of $686.5 million, Powerball said. It's the game's seventh-largest among U.S. lottery jackpots.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
Three officers injured after responding to domestic violence call, police say
The suspect was killed, and the man who called law enforcement was also injured, officials said Saturday.
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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Transcript: Kevin Hassett on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
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.
At least 15 newly-released Epstein files have disappeared from DOJ's website, records show
The episode has deepened concerns that had already emerged from the Justice Department's much-anticipated document release.
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman in New York governor's race after Stefanik's exit
President Trump initially signaled he would not make an endorsement at this stage, but Rep. Elise Stefanik's exit cleared the way for him to show his support for Bruce Blakeman.
"Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" guests for Dec. 21, 2025
This week's guests include Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, who led the push for Friday's release of the Epstein files.
HealthWatch
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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.
Measles outbreaks worsen in South Carolina, Arizona and Utah
Nationally, the measles case count is nearing 2,000 for a disease that has been considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000, a result of routine childhood vaccinations.
World
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Transcript: Kevin Hassett on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
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.
At least 9 killed, 10 wounded in shooting in South Africa, authorities say
"Some victims were randomly shot in the streets by unknown gunmen," the police said of the incident.
U.S. seizes a second vessel off the coast of Venezuela
It's the second time in recent weeks that the United States has interdicted a tanker, and it comes amid a large U.S. military build-up in Latin America.
A rare look inside LEGO's own secret shrine to the hugely popular toy
To what does LEGO owe its remarkable half-century success story? CBS News visits the toy giant's Denmark headquarters to find out.
Entertainment
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Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet has won three Grammys and sold 10 million albums. Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee talk about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas.
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet Pentatonix has won three Grammy Awards and sold 10 million albums, while their YouTube videos have been streamed more than six billion times. David Pogue talks with group members Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas – and about introducing musical instruments to the mix.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers"
As a holiday treat for "Sunday Morning" viewers, The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," a highlight of Radio City's "Christmas Spectacular" since its debut in 1933.
Technology
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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
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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
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Crime
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.
Search for motive in Brown and MIT shootings
The manhunt for the suspect in Saturday's deadly shooting at Brown University is finally over. Police discovered 48-year-old Claudio Manuel Neves Valente dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday night. CBS News' Anna Schecter explains what led to the discovery.
Space
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Space
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.
"Wet lava ball" exoplanet may have an atmosphere, evidence shows
Super-Earth TOI-561b is about 40 times closer to its host star than Mercury is to the sun.
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
Secret Santa (and a Baltimore elf) spread holiday cheer
Every year, Secret Santa (actually an anonymous, wealthy businessman) goes around the country handing out hundreds of $100 bills to random strangers, often accompanied by Steve Hartman. This time, Santa recruited Baltimore doctor Michael Zolicofer, a.k.a. Dr. Z, to help spread good tidings to random strangers and life-long patients alike.
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet Pentatonix has won three Grammy Awards and sold 10 million albums, while their YouTube videos have been streamed more than six billion times. David Pogue talks with group members Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas – and about introducing musical instruments to the mix.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers"
As a holiday treat for "Sunday Morning" viewers, The Rockettes perform "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers," a highlight of Radio City's "Christmas Spectacular" since its debut in 1933.
Almanac: December 21
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.