COVID-19: Coverage of the pandemic from MPR News

The latest news, resources, guides and tips to help you stay up to date on the coronavirus pandemic.

Bracing for fall viruses and ‘vaccine fatigue’  
As we say hello to September, it’s time to welcome another round of vaccines into our lives. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with an infectious disease expert and a pediatric nurse about COVID-19 boosters, flu shots, RSV shots and “vaccine fatigue.”  
Lab data suggests new COVID booster will protect against worrisome variant
Preliminary laboratory studies find antibodies from previous infections and vaccinations can neutralize the BA.2.86 variant. The findings bode well for new boosters on the way this fall.
First lady Jill Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, again
The White House says President Joe Biden tested negative, and will continue to be tested ahead of a planned trip to India this week. The first lady will remain in Delaware.
Health data roundup: COVID's creep continues; a deep dive into diabetes rates
Recent COVID-19 increases have, in part, been detected through wastewater monitoring. Friday the state announced that the Metropolitan Council is stepping back from reporting on reporting pathogens detected in wastewater at the Metro wastewater treatment facility.
As U.S. COVID hospitalizations rise, some places are bringing mask mandates back
New COVID variants are fueling hospitalizations and prompting some schools and hospitals to reinstate mask mandates. Others are considering or ruling out the possibility, leaving it up to individuals.
Coronavirus FAQs: How worrisome is the new variant? How long do boosters last?
Readers are curious about the new variant, currently known a BA.2.86. Also: Lots of questions about boosters. Can you get it at the same time as a flu shot? And how long does protection last?
After two-year spike, Boundary Waters visits drop to pre-pandemic levels
The number of visitors to the Boundary Waters dropped in 2022, returning to pre-pandemic levels. But the number of permit cancellations and no-shows continued to rise.
COVID-19 on the rise in Minnesota
While the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations remains among the lowest in the pandemic, the uptick warrants vigilance — especially given that the state is also seeing some increases in COVID-19 detected in wastewater.