If you know someone who has lost a job because of the coronavirus pandemic, you are not alone. More than 26 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits because of job cuts resulting from strict social distancing policies to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Many people are struggling financially and emotionally because of these job losses and other effects of social distancing restrictions. Listen to hear more about the impact of the coronavirus on the economy and what jobs might be in demand once social distancing is over.
Story Length: 3:57
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April 27, 2020
5:35
Millions of people in the U.S. are under strict social distancing restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The time length and requirements of these policies have been determined by governors, so they vary from state to state. Many people want to know when these restrictions will be lifted and what will make it safe to go back to school or eat at a local restaurant again. Listen to this story to hear a public health expert talk about what scientists and public health experts say will be necessary for normal life to resume.
This audio story was recorded in mid-April. The news about COVID-19 is changing rapidly and parts of this story may be dated.
Read MoreApril 13, 2020
3:50
New guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says all Americans should wear face masks in public to prevent spreading COVID-19. Before now, the CDC had recommended social distancing, or keeping six feet away from others, but that can be difficult in crowded spaces like grocery stores. The new recommendation reflects recent studies indicating that many people carry the virus without showing symptoms. Listen to learn which materials make effective masks and how wearing a mask in public sends an important message.
Read MoreApril 10, 2020
4:43
Workers at big companies are demanding paid leave, among other protections, as the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread. Amazon workers in New York, where some employees have COVID-19, want their warehouse to be deep cleaned while they continue to be paid. Instacart workers, contractors who do not receive benefits, are asking for paid leave if they get sick or are exposed to illness. Workers at both companies say these benefits are necessary and fair, given the risks they are facing, though the companies do not normally offer extended paid leave. Listen to learn more about the workers’ demands and then debate: Should companies offer paid leave during the pandemic?
Read MoreApril 2, 2020
4:01
Grocery store clerks have become essential workers during the COVID-19 outbreak, performing the crucial service of helping people feed themselves and their families. They put their own health at risk each day as hundreds of shoppers file through stores, often standing closer than the recommended safe distance of six feet away. Listen to hear a grocery store cashier describe life on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic and how she feels about taking risks to help others during a health crisis.
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