Health

Health
May 21 update on COVID-19 in MN: 809 dead; restrictions hurt, frustrations grow
State health leaders faced growing questions over Minnesota’s COVID-19 strategy and the toll it’s taken on religious services, graduations and other life rituals. They acknowledged the cost but cautioned that moving too quickly could worsen the pain.
Our pandemic habits cut carbon emissions, but it's not clear they'll last
Energy demand plummeted because of the pandemic shutdown. A big question is whether new habits like telecommuting and flying less will endure, and mean lower oil consumption in the future.
Remembering Minnesotans lost to COVID-19
Through conversations with their family members, colleagues and close friends, MPR News is remembering the lives of the people we’ve lost, too soon, to COVID-19.
A double-barreled approach to antibody testing could improve accuracy
Antibody tests can identify people who have been previously exposed to the coronavirus. But false positive results are a concern. Performing two different tests could reduce errors.
What is — and isn’t — allowed when camping in MN this Memorial Day weekend
Aside from the Boundary Waters and Voyageurs National Park, the only option for a night under the stars is dispersed camping in state forests. Here’s what that is and why it’s best for experienced campers.
Mental health apps that can help during the pandemic
Would you ever text with a therapist? What about following along with a meditation on an app? Lots of people are struggling with mental health right now, but getting access to in-person therapy is more difficult during the pandemic. Mental health technology, like phone apps, might be able to help bridge the gap.
Poll: Two-thirds expect return to normal will take 6 months or more
Three-quarters are concerned that a second wave of the coronavirus will emerge as states reopen, a new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll finds. But Americans' outlooks vary by political party.
Amid high stakes, China is fast-tracking COVID-19 vaccine efforts
Experts say the Communist Party sees more at stake than public health. One of the biggest concerns is the economy. China is also looking to defuse criticism over its early handling of the outbreak.