White House outlines grim COVID-19 trends as delta surge worsens The White House COVID-19 response team on Thursday outlined grim coronavirus trends showing how the delta variant has strengthened its grip on the country, especially among unvaccinated populations. Justine Coleman TheHill

The White House COVID-19 response team on Thursday outlined grim coronavirus trends showing how the delta variant has strengthened its grip on the country, especially among unvaccinated populations. 

Here's why herd immunity from Covid is 'mythical' with the delta variant Achieving herd immunity with Covid vaccines when the highly infectious delta variant is spreading is likely to be impossible, leading experts say. Holly Ellyatt CNBC

LONDON — Achieving herd immunity with Covid vaccines when the highly infectious delta variant is spreading is “not a possibility,” a leading epidemiologist said.

Texas gov declares all-out war on rogue state officials over masks as “The State of Texas will continue to vigorously fight the temporary restraining order to protect the rights and freedoms of all Texans.” Adam Barnes TheHill

Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott (R) committed Wednesday to continuing his battle against state officials and school districts in his state who choose to defy his ban on mask mandates. 

FDA poised to OK third vaccine dose for immunocompromised people The move would be the first authorization of an additional dose in the U.S. NBC News

The Food and Drug Administration is poised to amend the emergency use authorizations for the Pfizer and the Moderna Covid-19 vaccines Thursday to allow people with compromised immune systems to get a third dose, according to two sources familiar with the plans.

California becomes first state to require COVID-19 vaccines or The new rule will go into effect Thursday. School districts must be in full compliance by mid-October. Joseph Guzman TheHill

California has become the first state in the nation to require all teachers and school staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or face consistent testing.