Why WHO skipped 'nu,' 'xi' for new COVID variant
Social media users correctly noted that WHO skipped two letters, leading to questions about the move. Here are the facts.
Coronavirus
Omicron variant puts world in a 'race against time', says EU Commission President
The world is in a "race against time" with the Omicron coronavirus variant, said European…
COVID-19 live updates: Netherlands, Australia find omicron variant as curbs spread
Two countries half a world apart become the latest to detect the new omicron variant in travelers arriving from southern Africa. Get the latest here.
Lawsuit filed over WA House’s COVID-19 session plan
The new plan released by House officials last week requires representatives who don’t verify their vaccination status to undergo COVID-19 testing three times a week in order to work in their on-campus offices.
High alert: World scurries to contain new COVID variant
The latest on the new omicron variant: Two new cases confirmed in Britain as new restrictions are being placed on travel with each passing hour.
New omicron variant stokes world fears, triggers travel bans
A WHO panel named the variant "omicron" and classified it as a highly transmissible virus of concern, the same category that includes the delta variant, the world's most prevalent.
Mass COVID-19 testing site now open at Spokane Fair and Expo Center
SPOKANE, Wash. -- People in need of a COVID-19 test can now get one at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center. The new drive-thru mass testing site opened on Friday. The site is operated by Discovery Health MD and offers…
A new Covid-19 variant with high number of mutations sparks travel bans and worries scientists
The discovery of a new and potentially more transmissible coronavirus variant by South…
New COVID-19 variant spreads in Africa: What you need to know
It's unclear where the new variant actually arose, but a slew of nations moved to restrict travel from Africa. Here's what you need to know, plus more updates and the latest data on infections and vaccination.
Pfizer vaccine cleared for European Union kids 5-11; plus more about vaccinating children
It's the first time the Europeans have cleared a COVID-19 vaccine for use in young children. Plus, the latest stats and your guide to staying safe this holiday season.
'That shows a lack of judgment': Finch Elementary parent wants more transparency with mask incident
SPOKANE, Wash. -- Parents of Finch Elementary School students say they're worried about the example educators at the school are setting. The concern comes as several staff…
More than 14,000 kids in Idaho have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine
BOISE, Idaho -- More than 14,000 kids in Idaho have had at least one dose of the COVID vaccine. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare said that number of children 5-11 was last updated on November 22. Last week,…
Idaho govenor, top health official again urge COVID vaccine
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Gov. Brad Little and the state’s top health official in what is likely their last coronavirus town hall of the year urged residents to get vaccinated or get the booster shot if they’re eligible. Little…
More than 91,000 kids in Washington have initiated COVID vaccination
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- More than 91,000 kids in Washington have had at least one dose of a COVID vaccine. The Washington Department of Health said 91,693 children in the 5 to 11 age group have initiated vaccination as of this…
Spokane educator explains why she refused to wear a mask at Finch Elementary
Several educators, including the principal, refused to mask up Tuesday at Finch Elementary School. One of them talked exclusively to 4 News Now about her decision to break the rules.
Spokane mayor orders audit as fire department's overtime expenses spike
The monthly uniform overtime run rate increased from $232,000 per pay period during the two years before the pandemic to $576,000 per pay period during the pandemic through October.
New accommodations made for 5 vaccine-exempt Spokane firefighters
SPOKANE, Wash. -- Five City of Spokane firefighters with COVID vaccine exemptions are returning to work. New accommodations have been found for these five people in the dispatch center and a sixth is possible, according to City Spokesman Brian Coddington.…
People in Whitman County can now get tested for COVID at home
WHITMAN CO., Wash. -- Self-administered COVID tests are now available for people in Whitman County. The "Say Yes! COVID Test" program offers free, rapid test kits to households. People in Whitman County can order testing kits online that will be…
Disney pauses COVID-19 vaccine mandate in Florida
Disney has paused its vaccine policy following new laws passed by Florida's legislature last week.
COVID crisis continues in North Idaho as the rest of the state moves forward
COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho -- The COVID crisis continues in North Idaho even as the rest of the state moves forward. Crisis Standards…
Mass COVID-19 testing site opening at Spokane Fair and Expo Center Friday
SPOKANE, Wash. -- A second mass COVID-19 testing will open in Spokane Valley later this week. The drive-up site will open Friday at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center on Havana St. It will be open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays…
Is travel safe during the pandemic this holiday season?
All travelers must still wear masks on trains, planes and other indoor public transportation areas.
Crisis standards of care deactivated for all Idaho hospitals excluding those in North Idaho
BOISE, Idaho -- Idaho has deactivated crisis standards of care for all parts of the state except North Idaho. According to the Department of Health, the number of COVID-19 patients remains high and continues to stress healthcare systems. However, the…
Covid-19 cases are on the rise with Thanksgiving just three days away
Thanksgiving this year will be much different than last year, but far from…
