Fenit Nirappil

Fenit Nirappil, a national health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the alarming resurgence of measles in Texas. He discusses how vaccine skepticism, particularly in certain communities, has led to this outbreak. Listeners hear personal stories, including a mother whose unvaccinated child was infected. The podcast highlights the dire consequences of this situation, including a tragic loss of life, and emphasizes the urgent need for vaccinations to protect public health. Misinformation continues to challenge efforts for community safety.

Fenit Nirappil, a national health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the intricacies of Medicaid, the largest public health insurance program in the U.S. He discusses the potential consequences of proposed budget cuts and the critical support Medicaid provides to over 80 million Americans, including low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Nirappil shares personal stories that highlight the challenges faced by beneficiaries, the political divide on reform, and the looming implications of political decisions on healthcare access.

Today, what a landmark poll of U.S. transgender adults reveals about what life is like for trans people in America.Read more:In this atmosphere of intense polarization around transgender rights, The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation set out to hear what transgender Americans had to say on topics ranging from their experiences as children in school to navigating the workplace, the doctor’s office and family relationships as adults. The resulting Washington Post-KFF Trans Survey is the largest nongovernmental survey of U.S. trans adults to rely on random sampling methods.Today on the show, health reporter Fenit Nirappil walks through the results of the poll and shares the stories of trans patients who face discrimination when trying to access health care. 

Fenit Nirappil, a National health reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the heated debates surrounding fluoride in drinking water. Exploring Oregon's unique stance, he reveals how Portland has become the largest U.S. city without fluoride. The conversation touches on the historical significance of fluoride for dental health, recent concerns about its safety, and the political ripple effects of community-driven decisions. Nirappil’s on-the-ground insights showcase the passionate activism and contrasting opinions shaping this public health issue.

Dan Diamond, a health reporter for The Washington Post known for his insightful coverage of the pandemic, joins Fenit Nirappil, who specializes in health care and coronavirus reporting. They discuss the rapidly spreading Omicron variant and its implications for holiday travel and gatherings. With health officials adjusting their mindset, they emphasize the importance of vaccinations and testing. The duo offers practical advice on safely reconnecting with loved ones while navigating risks and the strain on testing resources during the festive season.