Daily COVID-19 deaths in US hit lowest point since early pandemic

The U.S. is reaching a pair of encouraging milestones as the COVID-19 pandemic’s grip on the nation continues to loosen. COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. have dipped below 300 a day for the first time since the outbreak's early days in March 2020.

Delta COVID-19 variant a growing concern in Los Angeles County

Between late April and early June, 64 cases of Delta-variant COVID infections were identified among residents of Los Angeles County.

Father’s Day celebrations kick off ‘summer of freedom’ from virus

President Biden wants to celebrate Independence Day as a “summer of freedom” from the virus, but many may already feel a return to normalcy this Father’s Day.

Delta COVID variant expected to become dominant US strain, CDC says

The delta variant first detected in India, which has already been confirmed in Los Angeles County, will likely become the dominant U.S. strain, the CDC director said — who stressed vaccination to stay protected.

California: People must look for work to get jobless aid

Since the pandemic began, California — the nation’s most populous state with nearly 40 million people — has processed more than 20 million unemployment claims and paid out more than $128 billion in benefits.

U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan locked down amid huge COVID-19 surge

The U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan is locking down because of a massive spike in coronavirus cases among employees. The embassy is ordering staffers into virtual isolation to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

California drops workplace mask rule for vaccinated workers

A Cal/OSHA regulatory panel has just approved changes in California workplace masking rules, aligning more with statewide guidelines for the general public.

COVID-19: Local doctor discusses Delta variant that's worrying CDC

The Delta variant was first detected in India in February and is believed to be up to 60% more transmissible than the original coronavirus strain.

Tokyo Olympics: Lancet calls for ‘global conversation’ on whether to cancel

Prominent medical journal The Lancet has called for a “global conversation” about the safety of the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, criticizing global health organizations for staying silent on the matter.

Royal Caribbean postpones 1st US cruise after crew members test positive for COVID-19

Royal Caribbean International is postponing for nearly a month one of the highly anticipated first sailings from the U.S. since the pandemic began because eight crew members tested positive for COVID-19.