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.

Minnesota is loosening its COVID-19 restrictions. Here's what you need to know
Under the new order, restaurants, bars, places of worship, hair salons, fitness centers and places like theaters and bowling alleys will be allowed to operate indoors and outdoors at limited capacity.
36.5 million have filed for unemployment in 8 weeks
Nearly 3 million people filed for unemployment benefits last week, the Labor Department said. It's the latest grim sign of the economic damage from the coronavirus crisis.
With school buildings closed, children's mental health is suffering
A top pediatrician calls for reopening schools as soon as possible because of the negative impact the shutdown is having on students' learning and mental health.
State begins rapid testing of all residents, staff of long-term care homes with COVID-19
Teams of public health personnel and Minnesota National Guard medics will perform targeted, but in-depth testing in about 20 long-term care facilities throughout the state beginning on Thursday. 
Businesses want to reopen, but how to do it safely?
More businesses see relief as Gov. Tim Walz’ stay-at-home order lapses on Monday. For the rest, bars, restaurants and salons among them, a possible restart date of June 1 offers some hope, but how exactly business will be conducted is still a question.
May 14 update on COVID-19 in MN: 663 dead; 'need for vigilance' remains
A day after Gov. Tim Walz unveiled plans to end his stay-at-home order, state health officials on Thursday implored Minnesotans to self-regulate their behavior as they start to gather again in small groups and head back to stores.
Fear of contracting coronavirus propels some smokers to quit
Increasing evidence suggests people who smoke are more likely to become severely ill and die from COVID-19 than nonsmokers. Some people are using that as inspiration to quit.