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.

March 18 update on COVID-19 in MN: Vaccination pace slips; active cases tick up
The state’s in a race now to vaccinate Minnesotans quickly enough to avoid another statewide COVID-19 surge. Vaccine supplies are expected to increase significantly soon, but case counts and hospitalizations are starting to slowly rise now.
White House announces $10 billion for COVID testing in schools
The new funds will enable K-12 schools to ramp up screening testing, which can "identify asymptomatic disease and prevent clusters before they start," said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.
Walz, Flanagan to quarantine after possible COVID exposure
The governor’s office says he tested negative on Monday but that he, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm will quarantine through March 25 given the possible exposure.
Capacity limits lift this weekend for houses of worship across the state
This will be the first weekend that houses of worship around the state will be allowed to operate with no capacity limits. Morning Edition Host Cathy Wurzer spoke with Pastor Corey Fuhrman of First Lutheran Church in Bemidji about his plans.
How long until COVID vaccines are available for kids?
Throughout the pandemic many parents have asked the same question: When can my child get a COVID vaccine? Two physicians talk about the latest research and a timeline for inoculation. 
March 17 update on COVID-19 in MN: Officials expect J&J vaccine doses to jump
State officials say Minnesota in April may start receiving 100,000 doses a week of the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine. The state’s also loosening curbs on visits to long-term care facilities. Gov. Tim Walz is quarantining after a possible COVID-19 exposure.
As gaps emerge, state hires head of vaccine equity
The Health Department’s new head of vaccine equity is looking to other states for ideas to help vulnerable communities get to the front of the vaccine line. That could include special vaccine allotments and sign-up periods for people who have struggled to get vaccinated.
Minnesota students look back at a year of school during the pandemic
MPR News host Angela Davis talks to elementary, middle and high school students about the pros and cons of online classes, missing friends and what they learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.