NPR is reporting that the debate surrounding the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic has resurfaced. It said many scientists in the virology community believe the virus originated from an animal spillover into humans, a view supported by Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. However, Senator Rand Paul and other political figures, along with some scientists, advocate for not discounting the possibility of a lab leak. NPR noted that the World Health Organization issued a statement in 2025 suggesting the "weight of available evidence" points to zoonotic spillover.
NPR is also reporting that the International AIDS Conference faces an uncertain future due to U.S. funding cuts. Dr. Kenneth Ngure, president-elect of the International AIDS Society, said that despite significant scientific advances, the funding reductions are a setback.
Separately, NPR shared tips from its readers on how to stay cool without air conditioning. It also highlighted a report from The Guardian, mentioned in its "links we like" section, that a U.S. government map presented at this year's AIDS conference mislabeled six countries in Africa.