Health

Health
Want to get omicron and just get it over with? Here's why that's a bad idea
While omicron seems to provoke milder illness for many people, "the truth is that it's probably somewhere in between what you think of as a common cold or flu and the COVID that we had before," says Dr. Emily Landon at UChicago Medicine. "And there are still a lot of risks of getting COVID."
Enough of COVID and school closures? Take to the outdoors
It’s a double whammy weekend. Snow is back and record illness from the omicron variant of COVID-19 has shut down many schools the next few days to few weeks. What better time to pack up the little ones and head outside. This round-up of outside fun is easily adaptable for anyone.
Ready for an N95 mask? Here's how to find a high-quality one that fits you well
The CDC says high-filtration masks like N95s provide the best protection against COVID-19. Here's how to find a good one — and avoid the fakes. Plus tips on how to fit them and how long to wear them.
There is life after addiction. Most people recover
America is facing a deadly drug epidemic, but there is hope. Research shows 75 percent of people with addiction survive and go on to live full lives, especially if they get good treatment.
Costs for COVID-19 hospitalization are changing. Here's why
With vaccines proven to keep people out of the hospital, more and more insurance companies are requiring enrollees to share the cost of COVID-19 treatments. Vaccines and tests remain free, though.
Latest on COVID-19 in MN: Bad numbers accelerate as pandemic digs in
Minnesota continues to struggle with a massive COVID-19 surge that began in the Twin Cities metro area but is swamping much of the state now. The newest data shows more than 67,000 known, active cases, the highest point in the entire pandemic.
You'll be able to order free at-home COVID test kits starting on Wednesday
The new order doubles the number of tests the White House plans to buy — for a total of 1 billion kits. Biden said a website will launch next week so Americans can order the free tests.
10 tips to help navigate this round of distance learning
Dozens of districts across the state are shuttering schools, meaning students will take to the kitchen table to learn. And while this go-around may be short-lived (fingers crossed), it certainly will be filled with stress for all parents. Here are some strategies to help.