The NPR Politics Podcast Vaping, COVID, And The Biden Administration's Approach To Public Health
Jul 13, 2022
The Biden administration is navigating a new spike in COVID-19 cases while maintaining low death rates and avoiding new restrictions. As the public grapples with changing perceptions of the pandemic, personal responsibility in health decisions becomes crucial. Meanwhile, the FDA is tackling vaping regulations, especially concerning youth and synthetic nicotine. The administration's ambitious plan to reduce nicotine levels aims to make cigarettes non-addictive, promoting smoking cessation amidst evolving public health challenges.
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COVID's Uncertain Future
- COVID-19 is becoming less lethal due to improved tools and management.
- It's uncertain if it will become as innocuous as the common cold because the virus continues to mutate.
Shifting Pandemic Approach
- Despite the BA.5 surge, the Biden administration promotes individual responsibility over restrictions.
- Cities like New York and Los Angeles consider masking, but the overall message is to use available tools.
COVID Fades as Top Concern
- Public concern about COVID-19 has significantly decreased, now ranking as a top issue for only 1% of Americans, per a recent poll.
- COVID-19 is becoming another chronic health concern, much like diet and smoking, which Allison Aubrey has extensively covered.