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.

As COVID-19 vaccine nears, employers consider making it mandatory
With promising news out of COVID-19 vaccine trials, the question now is how many people will get the vaccine? And can or will employers require their workers to get vaccinated?
Epidemiologist says restricting small gatherings isn't enough to stop the surge
To turn around the current jump in coronavirus cases, epidemiologist Ellie Murray says governments need to focus on the places that are driving the spread, like restaurants and bars.
Move fast? Push for a big deal? Biden faces debate over more COVID-19 aid
A question for Joe Biden and his team is whether they should be encouraging Democrats to move quickly, to deliver aid faster, even if that means accepting a smaller deal.
COVID spread causing 'surreal' staffing problems in nursing homes
Long-term care in Minnesota is in dire need of staffing support. With COVID-19 peaking, large numbers of staff are out sick or quarantining because of exposure. The situation is forcing state officials to take unusual measures to fill gaps.
Research: Older people resilient, but stressed by COVID-19 isolation
The pandemic has isolated many of us from friends, family and coworkers. But for older people who live alone, the loss of connection can cut even deeper. Researchers have been talking with dozens of older adults in Minnesota and North Dakota since the pandemic started, in an ongoing study of the impacts of isolation.
Sanford replaces CEO after controversial email about masks
The head of one of the largest regional health systems in the Midwest was replaced Tuesday, less than a week after telling employees that he had recovered from COVID-19 and was not wearing a mask around the office.
COVID-19 causes Gophers to cancel game with No. 18 Wisconsin
Minnesota is calling off its scheduled game Saturday at Wisconsin due to positive COVID-19 cases within its program, a move that likely knocks the 18th-ranked Badgers out of consideration for the Big Ten championship game.
Are more lockdowns inevitable, or can other measures stop the surge?
The U.S. added more than 1 million cases in the past week. More than 85,000 people are hospitalized. Some states may have no choice but to lock down again. Others are trying a "surgical approach."