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Coronavirus variants: Facts about omicron, delta and other SARS-CoV-2 mutants
By Nicoletta Lanese, Rachael Rettner last updated
Here's a look at the science behind SARS-CoV-2 variants, including the now-dominant omicron and its many defunct relatives.
COVID subvariant EG.5 and its spawn 'Eris' now dominant in the US
By Nicoletta Lanese published
An omicron subvariant called EG.5 has become the most prevalent version of SARS-CoV-2 in the U.S. by a narrow margin, according to CDC estimates.
Can picking your nose raise the risk of catching COVID-19? The answer may (not) shock you
By Emily Cooke published
Public health measures were ramped up during the pandemic, but a new study in health care workers suggests one disease-spreading habit may have been overlooked.
'Excess deaths' tied to COVID have plummeted in America — what does that mean?
By Kiley Price published
Data shows that America's excess death rates have mostly returned to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the end of the public health crisis, experts say.
Genetic quirk could explain why not everyone shows symptoms of COVID-19
By Emily Cooke published
In a large cohort of people infected with SARS-CoV-2, a specific gene variant was more common in people who didn't show symptoms, compared to those who did.
Declassified US intelligence report finds no evidence of coronavirus 'lab leak' from Wuhan institute
By Nicoletta Lanese published
A declassified U.S. intelligence report further refutes the idea that SARS-CoV-2 "leaked" from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.
Metformin cuts risk of long COVID by 40% in patients with obesity, trial suggests
By Anna Demming published
A new study shows metformin can diminish risk of developing long COVID by more than 40% in overweight and obese patients.
'Face blindness' could be rare long COVID symptom, case report hints
By Sarah Moore published
A new case report provides the first account of "face blindness" emerging after a COVID-19 infection.
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