The FDA and CDC are expecting to approve a new COVID-19 booster shot to broaden immunity against currently circulating variants of the virus in the coming weeks. Vaccinated Americans are being warned against seeking out another booster this month, and instead should continue to follow safety protocols and get the current vaccine now. The updated booster shot will be available to the public in mid-September.
Posts published in “Health”
Despite the defeat of an anti-choice ballot initiative earlier this month, Ohio Republicans are continuing their efforts to pass anti-choice legislation. The Ohio Ballot Board, led by anti-choice advocate Frank LaRose, has approved language for the ballot initiative that may confuse voters. The language bears little resemblance to the full amendment, which seeks to enshrine abortion rights and other reproductive freedoms into Ohio's Constitution. Supporters of the amendment are concerned that the language could mislead voters and lead to the amendment's defeat.
The South Carolina Supreme Court has reversed its stance on abortion, upholding a law that bans most such procedures after about six weeks of pregnancy. This decision has been met with criticism from abortion rights advocates, who argue that the law is unconstitutional and violates a woman's right to privacy. The 4-1 ruling departs from the court's own decision months earlier striking down a similar ban, and could potentially be overturned if it is found to violate the constitutional right to privacy.
The U.S. Department of Labor has reached a settlement with Dollar Tree Inc., the parent company of discount retailers Dollar Tree and Family Dollar, to address workplace safety violations. The agreement requires Dollar Tree Inc. to conduct a nationwide assessment to identify and address safety hazards, as well as provide training and resources to store managers and employees. The settlement is part of the Department of Labor's ongoing efforts to ensure that all workers are provided with safe and healthy working conditions.
A dangerous heat wave is affecting 130 million people in 22 states, with temperatures reaching as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat wave is accompanied by Tropical Storm Franklin, which is expected to dump up to 15 inches of rain in isolated areas. People in the affected areas are encouraged to take precautions and stay safe.
At least three people have died and six have been hospitalized due to a listeria outbreak at a Frugals burger restaurant in Tacoma, Washington. The Washington State Department of Health has found listeria bacteria in all milkshake flavors sold at the restaurant, and has attributed the outbreak to inadequate cleaning of the ice cream machines. Frugals has shut down all of its stores’ ice cream machines for cleaning and testing, and is urging anyone who has eaten at the Tacoma location to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms associated with listeria.
Ohanian praised his wife, calling her the "Greatest mother of all time" and thanked the medical staff who took care of them. Fans and fellow celebrities have sent an outpouring of well wishes to the couple and their two daughters.
Greece is facing a major wildfire crisis, with 18 people found dead in the city of Alexandroupolis and two people dead and two firefighters injured in separate fires in northern and central Greece. A new heatwave hitting southern Europe has made the situation worse, with scientists linking the hot, dry and windy conditions to climate change. The Greek government has urged citizens to take extra precautions and firefighters are continuing to battle the fires.