Twenty medical centers will serve as lead sites for broader efforts to reopen the entire VA system. But the number of active cases of the virus among patients has steadily declined since the start of May. Facing growing criticism, the Department of Veterans Affairs said Friday that it will not halt use of an unproven malaria drug on veterans with COVID-19 but that fewer of its patients are now taking it. A full trial of the drug degarelix is expected to take at least four months. Telephone town halls, some employee remote work will likely continue even when the virus restrictions lift. Markers for some deceased former German prisoners of war display the controversial symbol alongside American grave sites. The former physician now faces allegations he abused at least six men under his care. More than 1,300 staffers have contracted the fast-spreading virus since early March. VA officials say they're working with colleges and Congress to watch for potential problems when veterans return to classes next year. The $3 trillion measure has drawn praise from Democrats but little support from Republicans. Load More