Health

Health
Senator calls RFK Jr.’s position on race and vaccines dangerous
In one of the most tense exchanges in a heated confirmation hearing, Senator Angela Alsobrooks called out past comments RFK Jr. made suggesting a different vaccine schedule for Black people.
Flu, COVID-19 and whooping cough down, norovirus still up
The good news? Flu, COVID-19, RSV and whooping cough are all on the decline in Minnesota. The bad news? Norovirus case counts have climbed this month, and lagging COVID-19 reveals the highest weekly mortality count in 11 months.
Can microplastics harm us?
Plastic is everywhere, from synthetic clothing to take-out food containers. Now we know it’s also in our bodies. MPR News guest host Euan Kerr talks with a doctor and a researcher about microplastics and human health.
Beltrami County law enforcement draws federal aid to fight drug trafficking
Beltrami County law enforcement agencies are planning how they will use federal aid after the area was designated a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, or HIDTA. They say they need to counter a precipitous increase in the amount of opioids and amphetamines flowing into the area.
Environmental groups sue Minnesota agencies over nitrate pollution
The lawsuit alleges the agencies have failed to adopt regulations that are adequate to protect water resources from farm-related nitrate pollution. It also asks the agencies to reopen state rules that govern animal manure and commercial fertilizer, major sources of nitrate contamination in groundwater, lakes, rivers and streams.
Doctors opposing RFK Jr. rally in the lead-up to his confirmation
Many health professionals are lining up against Trump's pick for health secretary. They say his anti-vaccine views could cost lives. Some of his supporters embrace his stance.
Insulin capped at $35 per month for Minnesotans, after settlement with manufacturers
Minnesotans prescribed insulin won’t pay more than $35 per month for it. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a settlement Monday with manufacturer Novo Nordisk, concluding a years-long lawsuit against major insulin companies.
CDC ordered to stop working with WHO immediately, upending expectations of an extended withdrawal
A CDC official sent a memo to senior leaders at the agency on Sunday night telling them that all agency staff who work with the WHO must immediately stop their collaborations and “await further guidance.”