Assault weapons ban, BA.5 Omicron variant, STD rates

Air Date:
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guns on wall at a store
In this photo taken March 15, 2017, AR-15 style rifles made by Battle Rifle Co., a gunmaker in Webster, Texas, are on display in its retail shop. Lisa Marie Pane/AP Photo

We look back at the previous assault weapons ban in the U.S. with a criminologist. Then, an infectious disease doctor shares the latest on the newest dominant strain of COVID-19. Later, we talk to an infection preventionist about a nationwide rise in sexually transmitted diseases.

Featured in this Show

  • Assault weapon sales were banned for 10 years. Did it reduce mass shootings?

    After a mass shooting in Highland Park, Illinois last weekend, President Biden and others have called for reinstating a federal ban on assault weapons sales. We look back at whether the 1994 ban had an impact on mass violence and what other measures could help make future tragedies less deadly.

  • What's driving a nationwide rise in STD rates?

    According to CDC data, sexually transmitted infections are on the rise in most of the country. We talk with a Wisconsin doctor about what’s causing the trend and the preventative steps to stay safe.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Producer
  • James Alan Fox Guest
  • Megan Meller Guest

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