Michael Balter

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Michael Balter is an independent journalist who served as Paris correspondent for the journal Science from 1991 to 2016. He has taught science journalism at Boston University and New York University.

Latest

TD Original

Mutations, Misinformation and the Mother of All Pandemics

Michael Balter / Truthdig Mar 31, 2025 There are worrying signs that pathogenic bird flu is poised to break through soft spots in our defense, from house cats to Trump administration science policy. Dig deeper ( 9 Min. Read )

Ear to the Ground

One Sick Chicken

Michael Balter / Truthdig May 16, 2023 How the poultry industry complicates preparations for an avian flu pandemic. Dig deeper ( 3 Min. Read )

Ear to the Ground

COVID, We Hardly Knew Ye

Michael Balter / Truthdig May 6, 2023 The coronavirus emergency is officially over. Now let’s learn the right lessons. Dig deeper ( 3 Min. Read )

Ear to the Ground

Keeping a Bird’s Eye on Bird Flu

Michael Balter / Truthdig May 3, 2023 Scientists are monitoring mutations in H5N1, a pathogenic avian flu that may be moving in our direction. Dig deeper ( 4 Min. Read )

Ear to the Ground

Pity the Poor Raccoon Dog

Michael Balter / Truthdig Mar 23, 2023 An obscure Asian canid takes the rap for COVID-19. But was it framed? Dig deeper ( 3 Min. Read )

TD Original

This Herbicide Is Everywhere. But Should It Be?

Michael Balter / Truthdig Mar 6, 2023 Widely used glyphosate is linked to the decline of honey bees and everything from cancer, autism and irritable bowel syndrome in humans. Dig deeper ( 9 Min. Read )

Politics

The Politicized Virus

Michael Balter / Truthdig Dec 29, 2022 The truth about the origins of the COVID-19 virus should never have been a partisan issue — but can the political damage of the early pandemic be undone? Dig deeper ( 11 Min. Read )