Health

Health
Here's why mask mandates are falling across the U.S.
The CDC still recommends masks in indoor settings, with stronger masks such as N95s or KN95s as the best options. State officials say the main reason for easing mandates is the downturn in hospitalizations and infections, even in places that have the most stringent rules. 
Osterholm: COVID conditions better, but virus 'not done with us'
The latest COVID surge is ebbing, but the ongoing lack of trust around public health may bring a future crisis, Michael Osterholm tells MPR News. “A public health mandate only works if people are willing to do it, and what you’re seeing is a general rebellion right now against this.”
Minneapolis, St. Paul end vaccination-or-test order for bars, eateries
The cities last month began requiring proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID test to enter public places serving food and drink. With the current surge waning, the mayors on Thursday rescinded the controversial orders. Public masking mandates remain in place.
Pandemic bonuses, unemployment fix collide at MN Capitol
The DFL-led House is moving quickly on a $1 billion plan to financially reward front-line workers during the pandemic. The GOP-led Senate wants to first deal with a massive hole in the unemployment fund and deal with the pandemic checks later.
COVID’s long shadow
Host Angela Davis checks in with an ICU nurse from St. Cloud, Minn., who has been caring for COVID patients since the beginning of the pandemic. And, she talks with a Latina activist who hopes her father’s long battle with COVID-19 raises awareness about the sacrifices made by essential workers. 
Latest on COVID in MN: Pandemic path brightens as cases, hospital needs fall
Key metrics tracking the spread of COVID-19 in Minnesota continue to show the current surge in retreat, with cases, positive test rates and hospital bed use all falling steadily. Duluth’s mayor says she’ll let her city’s masking order expire on Saturday.