It’s a painful statistical fact that Black babies die at higher rates than White babies—a fact all the more painful and tragic for those living with the realities of infant mortality. The difference in death rates is shared by developing and developed nations alike. But the trend can and must change. Read more
For months public health professionals have been clear that there is nothing magic about 6 feet nor about 15 minutes. Even brief contact, the CDC now acknowledges, can lead to transmission. How do we now think about 15 minutes of exposure? Read more
Genetically modifying mosquitoes to control infectious disease is not a new idea. But all consequences—the good and the bad—of such an intervention must be adequately vetted. And importantly, argues physician and alum Utibe Effiong, local communities should have a say in the process. Read more
Paid family leave is needed now more than ever. The United States is the only developed country without mandated paid family leave policy for all employees, a fact thrown into sharp relief by the coronavirus pandemic. Read more
In the post COVID-19 world, we understand in very fundamental ways that low-wage workers, once considered marginal, are “essential” to the continued functioning of critical infrastructure, health, and social care systems. Sustained protections for low wage workers can protect them from adverse health effects. Read more
Mortality rates typically fall during economic downturns. But the unprecedented features of the COVID-19 shutdown suggest that trend might not hold this time. Read more