COVID-19 cases in US jumped 26% over last 3 weeks, CDC data shows

Cases tapered off after the delta variant surged this summer, but newly rising cases could be a worrisome sign of what’s ahead this winter.

3 snow leopards die from COVID-19 complications at Nebraska zoo

The zoo made the announcement in a Facebook post Friday, describing the deaths of the three leopards — named Ranney, Everest, and Makalu— as “truly heartbreaking.

Wyoming girl, teddy bear reunited after year-long separation during Glacier National Park trip

Six-year-old Naomi Pascal lost a teddy bear she had since leaving an Ethiopian orphanage. Thanks to a sharp-eyed, compassionate park ranger, she has been reunited with the irreplaceable stuffed animal a year later.

Santa Claus may not be coming to town this year amid hired Santa shortage

There are an estimated 10-15% fewer Santa Clauses this year compared to last year due to COVID-19 and many Santas retiring, according to Mitch Allen, head elf at Hire Santa.

LA City Council approves changes to COVID proof-of-vaccination ordinance

The City Council on Friday tweaked the ordinance, so it will now require proof of vaccinations for only individuals who are 12 years old and over, instead of all eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, which includes people over the age of 5.

California issues new guidelines on who can get booster shots

California told health care providers to not turn anyone away even if they don’t meet the CDC’s criteria as long as it has been at least six months since their second Pfizer or Moderna shot or two months since their single Johnson & Johnson shot.

California prepares for possible winter COVID-19 surge

California earlier this fall had the nation’s lowest COVID-19 case rate but is now 16th, Governor Gavin Newsom said Wednesday.

COVID-19 testing site returns to Dodger Stadium

The COVID-19 testing site at Dodger Stadium reopened this week; many people fear a winter surge could be coming. 

Cell process may explain why coronavirus variants are more infectious, NIH study shows

NIH scientists believe they have discovered why the coronavirus alpha and delta variants have an easier time infecting host cells and hope the discovery will lead to more effective treatment.