Omicron variant is milder but better at evading vaccines, South African data indicates

The omicron variant appears to cause less severe disease than previous strains, South African data suggests. But the Pfizer vaccine seems to offer less defense against infection.

South African president tests positive for COVID-19, has mild symptoms

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is self-isolating in Cape Town and is being monitored by the South African Military Health Service.

Pope Francis addresses nun abuse detailed in investigative expose

During an audience with members of the Vatican’s congregation for religious orders, Pope Francis cited a new investigative expose of the problem written by a reporter for the Holy See’s media, Salvatore Cernuzio.

Omicron variant appearing milder than delta, South African doctors say

In the two weeks since omicron first was reported in Southern Africa, other doctors have shared similar stories. All caution that it will take many more weeks to collect enough data to be sure, their observations and the early evidence offer some clues.

Scientists seek COVID-19 origin nearly 2 years into pandemic

Nearly two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the origin of the virus tormenting the world remains shrouded in mystery.

Julian Assange: UK opens door to extradition of WikiLeaks founder to US

A U.K. appellate court has opened the door for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's extradition to the U.S. to face spying charges, overturning a lower court.

Dozens of camels ejected from annual Saudi Arabia beauty contest over Botox injections

Saudi media says that authorities have conducted their biggest-ever crackdown on camel beauty contestants that received Botox injections and other artificial touch-ups.

WHO warns omicron variant fears may set off hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines

The World Health Organization has expressed concerns that rich countries spooked by the emergence of the omicron variant could step up hoarding of COVID-19 vaccines.

New Zealand plans to implement lifetime ban on cigarettes for youth

New Zealand plans to end tobacco smoking by implementing a lifetime ban for those aged 14 or younger. The minimum age to buy cigarettes would keep rising year after year.

Medicago's plant-based COVID-19 vaccine showing promising trial results, company says

Medicago announced Tuesday that its two-dose vaccine was 71% effective at preventing COVID-19 infection in a large, late-stage study that included several variants including the delta variant.

Biden-Putin square off over Russian troop buildup near Ukraine border

President Biden warned Vladimir Putin that the U.S. would exact “a very real cost” on the Russian economy if it invades neighboring Ukraine.

WHO: Kids in 5-14 age group account for Europe's highest COVID-19 rates

The WHO's office for Europe said children in the 5 to 14 age group now account for the highest rates of reported COVID-19 infections in the region.

Russia-Ukraine conflict: What's behind the recent tensions?

Here’s a look at the roots of the Russia-Ukraine standoff, Russia’s latest military buildup and more background on the tensions.