Gabrielle Emanuel

The CDC estimates there have been 7.5 million cases so far this season, up from 4.6 million just the week before, and already more than 3,000 deaths.

Lisa Groskopf is a medical officer at the CDC.

Probably the most important thing is that if you haven't gotten a vaccine is to get one.

It is by no means too late.

Now, NPR did get a follow-up email from a different CDC spokesperson saying vaccines are a personal choice and that people should speak with their health care providers about the risks and benefits.

Adult flu vaccination rates in the U.S.

are just above 40 percent.

Gabriela Emanuel, NPR News.

People are increasingly using AI chatbots for things like emotional support and even talk therapy.

Now, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, which usually approves medications and vaccines, says it will study these AI tools for their safety and efficacy and then develop a regulatory framework.

Bilal Mateen works for PATH, the nonprofit South Africa is partnering with.

He anticipates the new regulatory system will be up and running in South Africa in two to three years.

Gabriela Emanuel, NPR News.

A big debate among anti-tobacco advocates has been whether e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and nicotine pouches could be used to help people quit smoking.

That's a strategy promoted in the U.K.

But WHO has now come out firmly against that idea.

It says these newer products are being pushed by the tobacco industry and hooking non-smokers, especially young ones.

Ben McGrady is with WHO.

WHO says these cigarettes and the like should be regulated at least as stringently as traditional cigarettes.

Gabriela Emanuel, NPR News.