Drugmaker Merck said its experimental COVID-19 pill cuts the risk of hospitalization and death by half, a major advance in the fight against the virus if cleared by health authorities. Merk plans to immediately seek emergency authorization for the oral antiviral, called molnupiravir, marking the first pill to treat COVID-19.
School boards across the country are seeking help from the federal government to protect them from an influx of threats stemming from coronavirus safety restrictions. The National School Boards Association said in a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday that board members, students and staff members had experienced at least 20 instances of threats, harassment and acts of intimidation, mostly in response to mask mandates as well as critical race theory. More school districts, including California's second-largest in San Diego, are also mandating the vaccine for staff and students.
Eurozone inflation climbed to its highest level in 13 years in September, driven by the reopening of economies after shutdowns. The rise was also driven by surging energy prices, deepening concern among policymakers in the area. European officials echoed those in the U.S., saying the current spikes appear to be “largely transitory,” but some have voiced concerns that official price forecasts are too low.
Australian officials announced they will reopen the country’s borders to international travelers in November, signaling some resolve to accept the coronavirus in daily life. Travel restrictions will be dropped for fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents, with plans for restrictions on tourists, immigrants and students to be eased later.
Portugal’s vaccination campaign has nearly reached its end, with about 85% of the country’s population and about 98% of those over 12 fully protected. The high rate offers a look to other nations at what the next steps could be to contain the virus. While the country’s health officials say they have achieved a good result, many are still worried about a winter wave and a rise in hospitalizations.
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