**Here’s what you need to know today about the coronavirus pandemic:**
**1. The global death toll from COVID-19 has surpassed 6 million.**
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Wednesday that the global death toll from COVID-19 has surpassed 6 million. The vast majority of these deaths have occurred in low- and middle-income countries, where access to vaccines and healthcare is limited.
**2. The Omicron variant is now the dominant strain of COVID-19 in the United States.**
The Omicron variant is more transmissible than previous variants of the virus, and it is now the dominant strain in the United States. The Omicron variant is also more likely to cause breakthrough infections in people who are vaccinated, but vaccines remain effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
**3. The Biden administration is considering a fourth round of stimulus checks.**
The Biden administration is considering a fourth round of stimulus checks to help Americans cope with the economic impact of the pandemic. The checks would likely be smaller than the previous rounds, and they would be targeted to low- and middle-income Americans.
**4. The FDA is considering authorizing a vaccine for children under 5.**
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering authorizing a vaccine for children under 5. The vaccine would be a two-dose vaccine, and it would be given to children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. If authorized, the vaccine would be the first COVID-19 vaccine available for children under 5.
**5. The WHO is calling for a global moratorium on booster shots.**
The WHO is calling for a global moratorium on booster shots until at least the end of the year. The WHO argues that booster shots are not necessary for most people, and that they are diverting vaccines away from people who need them most.
**6. The pandemic is still having a significant impact on the global economy.**
The pandemic is still having a significant impact on the global economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has downgraded its global growth forecast for 2022, and it is now warning of a possible recession in 2023.
**7. The pandemic is also having a significant impact on mental health.**
The pandemic is also having a significant impact on mental health. The WHO has reported that the pandemic has led to a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide. The pandemic has also exacerbated existing mental health conditions, and it has made it more difficult for people to access mental health care.
**Here are some resources for getting help with COVID-19 and mental health:**
* The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a website with information about COVID-19, including symptoms, testing, and treatment.
* The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a website with information about mental health, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
* The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a website with information about mental health and substance abuse, including resources for getting help.
* The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255..
