There are many potential hassles of air travel, including getting sick. Airports can be virus incubators, and researchers have investigated which particular airport spots carry the most germs. Recent studies have revealed that the dirtiest places in airports might not be where people expect. Listen to this story to find out how air travelers can take precautions to avoid bringing home a cold for the holidays.
Read More
A new, highly contagious virus is spreading quickly, prompting many people to wonder how they can protect themselves. COVID-19, an illness caused by a new strand of coronavirus, spreads through tiny droplets sent into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Experts say simple measures like hand washing and avoiding handshakes can help prevent illness. Listen to a science reporter explain how Americans can prepare for a possible outbreak of COVID-19 in their communities and what individuals can do to keep themselves healthy.
Read MoreFace Masks Can Help Contain Virus Spread
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 MoreConditions for Lifting Pandemic Restrictions
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 MoreCURRENT EVENT | April 29, 2020
The spread of the novel coronavirus has indicated that the time-honored custom of shaking hands may be history. Handshaking began thousands of years ago as a peaceful greeting, and has been praised for its ability to bring people together as equals. In light of new rules of social distancing, however, some people are suggesting alternative greetings that continue to connect us while keeping us safe. Listen to learn how handshakes were once used to check for concealed weapons and why some people are happy to see the practice end.
Story Length: 2:56
© 2020 National Public Radio, Inc. Used with the permission of NPR. All rights reserved.
04/16/2020
https://app.listenwise.com/students/events/1644-handshakes-may-be-history
Classroom Discussion Themes