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.

Tiger at NYC's Bronx Zoo tests positive for coronavirus
The 4-year-old Malayan tiger named Nadia — and six other tigers and lions that have also fallen ill — are believed to have been infected by a zoo employee who wasn't yet showing symptoms, the zoo said.
April 6 update on COVID-19 in MN: 30 dead, 57 in ICU, Walz eyes extending restrictions
As the count of cases, hospitalizations and deaths rose, Gov. Tim Walz said Monday afternoon that he's assessing his two-week stay-at-home order “sector-by-sector,” but he strongly indicated some restrictions will stay in place past Friday.
Minnesota bracing for possible budget deficit because of COVID-19
A simulation comparing now to the prior recession shows concern of a multi-billion dollar tax drop. The state’s finance agency plans to accelerate the next economic forecast to judge how bad things are and to free up use of reserves.
 Is it safe — and ethical — to send your child to day care?
Parents of Minnesota’s littlest learners are facing a dilemma: Do they continue sending their kids to child care during the COVID-19 pandemic? Minnesota’s stay-at-home order does not prohibit families from taking their kids to day care, but officials note that the goal is to keep providers open specifically for the children of emergency workers.
Minn. nonprofits serving people with disabilities hustle to stay connected
Arts organizations that offer day programs to keep their clients with disabilities engaged have had to shutter their physical classrooms and spaces. But they’re working to find creative ways to reach out to their clients while fighting to keep their businesses alive.
Report: Pentagon knew of possible coronavirus threat for years
An internal report from 2017 warned that a novel respiratory illness was the "most likely and significant threat" in a pandemic and noted likely shortages of masks, beds and ventilators.
Americans brace for 'hardest, saddest' week of their lives
Surgeon General Jerome Adams told "Fox News Sunday" that deaths from the coronavirus would make this moment reminiscent of Pearl Harbor and Sept. 11. New York City saw a glimmer of hope, with daily deaths and ICU admissions falling slightly. Meanwhile, Britain assumed the unwelcome mantle of deadliest hotspot in Europe after a record 24-hour jump in deaths that surpassed even hard-hit Italy.
Even outside on a trail, 6 feet of distance is necessary
While many parks and trails are open in Minnesota, the DNR says people must follow the governor’s rules on social distancing, stay close to home and avoid crowded parks.