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Free at-home Covid tests can now be ordered: When to test and what the results mean

Here’s what you should know as you break out those rapid tests again.
A resident self-administers an at-home Covid-19 test in Easton, N.H, on Dec. 7, 2021.
A resident self-administers an at-home Covid-19 test in Easton, N.H, on Dec. 7, 2021.

Long Covid blood test offers first clues into what causes the mysterious condition

Scientists can now show key differences in the blood of those who recover from Covid — and those who don't.
A man is tested for COVID-19 at a free testing site in Washington, D.C.
A man is tested for COVID-19 at a free testing site in Washington, D.C.

Many states are expanding their Medicaid programs to provide dental care to their poorest residents

With an influx of federal pandemic dollars and growing recognition of the economic and health costs of poor dental health, six states began or expanded their Medicaid programs this year to provide coverage for adults.
Danielle Wilkes is seen by a dentist in Nasvhille on Sept. 7, 2023.
Danielle Wilkes is seen by a dentist in Nasvhille on Sept. 7, 2023.

As Covid cases rise, what to know about Paxlovid

The antiviral pills can reduce risk of hospitalization or death.
Mary Ann Neilsen holds her last Paxlovid pills while recovering from Covid-19 in Santa Barbara, Calif.
Mary Ann Neilsen holds her last Paxlovid pills while recovering from Covid-19 in Santa Barbara, Calif.
6d ago

Girl from Netflix's 'Taking Care of Maya' was 'imprisoned and battered' before mother's suicide, lawyer says

The  2017 death of Beata Kowalski and her family's health and legal struggled were profiled in the Netflix's documentary "Take Care of Maya."
Maya Kowalski; Jack Kowalski; Beata Kowalski; and Kyle Kowalski.
Maya Kowalski; Jack Kowalski; Beata Kowalski; and Kyle Kowalski.

CDC recommends RSV vaccine given during pregnancy to protect babies

The vaccine is the first of its kind to be approved. It can shield infants from respiratory syncytial virus during their first 6 months.
A pregnant young woman receives a vaccine at a preventive examination by a doctor
A pregnant young woman receives a vaccine at a preventive examination by a doctor

Some providers are dropping gender-affirming care for kids even in cases where it’s legal

At least 22 states have now enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors.
Becky Hormuth with her son, in Wentzville, Mo.
Becky Hormuth with her son, in Wentzville, Mo.

FTC sues private-equity backed anesthesia staffing company, saying it tried to monopolize the market and drive up prices

The suit against U.S. Anesthesia Partners follows comments by the FTC chair that the agency would probe anticompetitive practices at companies acquired by private-equity firms.
U.S. Anesthesia Partners Inc. headquarters in Dallas.
U.S. Anesthesia Partners Inc. headquarters in Dallas.

New Covid vaccine rollout hampered by canceled appointments, insurance issues

CVS and Walgreens confirmed a limited supply at some locations around the country. And some insurers are still updating their billing systems to cover the cost of the shots.
A pharmacist administers a new mRNA Covid vaccine COMIRNATY by Pfizer at CVS Pharmacy in Eagle Rock, Calif., on Sept. 14, 2023.
A pharmacist administers a new mRNA Covid vaccine COMIRNATY by Pfizer at CVS Pharmacy in Eagle Rock, Calif., on Sept. 14, 2023.

FDA clears new Covid boosters: 5 things to know

The new shots are formulated to target the XBB.1.5 subvariant.
A medical receptionist at a doctors office in Cambridge, receives her second dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine at the Talbot County Community Center in Easton, Md., on Feb. 5, 2021.
A medical receptionist at a doctors office in Cambridge, receives her second dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine at the Talbot County Community Center in Easton, Md., on Feb. 5, 2021.

Suppressing negative thoughts may improve mental health, contrary to popular belief, study finds

New research suggests that blocking out fearful thoughts could reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Depression
Depression

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