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.

White House virus aid offer is panned by Pelosi, Senate GOP
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., rejected the most generous Trump administration plan to date as “one step forward, two steps back." The Republicans who control the Senate dismissed it as too expensive and a political loser for conservatives.
Trump makes first public appearance since his hospital stay
The president appeared healthy, though perhaps a little hoarse, during the 18-minute speech that was intended to send the message that he's back and ready to resume his battle for reelection. Before the speech, White House officials said they had no information to release on whether the president was tested for COVID-19.
A coronavirus vaccine could kill half a million sharks, conservationists warn
The use of an immune-system stimulant harvested from shark liver oil in the development of some coronavirus vaccines has animal conservationists pressing for alternatives.
Coronavirus FAQ: What's the deal with the '15 minute rule'?
The conventional wisdom is that it takes 15 minutes of close contact to a contagious person to put you at risk. But even a short exposure could prove problematic.
StoryCorps: She finds 'light' in interviewing neighbors about life during lockdown
Jinny Savolainen was looking for a sense of purpose when the pandemic hit Leverett, Mass. "Just when things seemed so dark, I found some light in the words of the people all around me," she said.
Comic: You're wearing it wrong! A face mask safety refresher
Pleats, filters, fabric. With so many available features and types, we break down which common face coverings are more effective and the right way to wear and handle them.
Fairview outlines job cuts at two St. Paul hospitals set to close
In filings with state regulators, Fairview Health Services said it will eliminate 268 jobs at St. Joseph’s and another 179 at Bethesda starting Dec. 9.