After a long delay marred by manufacturing troubles, a COVID-19 vaccine from Novavax became the fourth such vaccine authorized in the U.S. We review how it works and how it’s different from its competitors.
A Guide to Novavax’s COVID-19 Vaccine
Background Science
Q&A on Financial Disclosures by Government Scientists
In this story, we’ll explain what we know about the financial and conflict-of-interest disclosure requirements for Dr. Anthony Fauci, other National Institutes of Health higher-ups and members of two U.S. vaccine advisory committees.
A Guide to COVID-19 Vaccines for the Youngest Kids
Children under 5, including those as young as 6 months of age, are now able to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Here, we explain what’s known about the two coronavirus vaccines for the youngest children.
COVID-19 Vaccines Don’t Contain Fetal Tissue
Despite persistent claims to the contrary, none of the three authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccines contains fetal tissue. We take a look at the facts in light of Justice Clarence Thomas’ dissent.
Q&A On Paxlovid, Pfizer’s COVID-19 Oral Antiviral
Once scarce, Paxlovid, an antiviral pill that is the preferred treatment for non-hospitalized high-risk COVID-19 patients, is no longer in such short supply. Here, we explain what the drug does, how well it works and what questions remain.
When the Science Is Messy: How SciCheck Handles Scientific Disputes
What does a fact-checking organization do when the facts aren’t clear? And what happens when reputable scientists disagree about a public health policy?
Q&A on Second COVID-19 Boosters for Older People
At the end of March, the Food and Drug Administration authorized a second COVID-19 booster dose for people 50 years of age and older. But the data supporting the extra shot is limited. Here, we break down the available evidence and share what scientists recommend.
Q&A on At-Home Rapid Tests
The demand for at-home, rapid COVID-19 tests — sparked by the fast-spreading omicron variant in December — has continued in 2022. With that demand have come questions about the tests’ efficacy, how to use them and where to get them. We answer those queries and more.
Early Data on Omicron
As many Americans and others around the globe prepare for holiday travel and get-togethers, the omicron variant continues to be a concern. While the available data on transmission, vaccine effectiveness and severity of disease are still preliminary, here’s what we’ve learned so far.
Q&A on the Omicron Variant
On Nov. 24, South Africa told the World Health Organization that amid a recent increase in COVID-19 cases, it had identified a new variant — later named omicron — with a high number of mutations, raising concerns that it could spread more easily than other variants of the coronavirus. We’ll go through what we know so far about omicron.