Hallberg's Picture of Health

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.
Dr. Hallberg answers your vaccine questions
Should I wait for another vaccine if I’m offered the Johnson & Johnson one? What if I’m having trouble getting an appointment for my second shot? When can I see friends and family? Dr. Jon Hallberg answers some of your COVID-19 vaccine questions.
Health panel expands lung cancer screening for more smokers
More Americans now qualify for yearly scans to detect lung cancer, according to guidelines released Tuesday that may help more Black smokers and women get screened.
New center to reframe how we research health disparities
A new grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota will support antiracism research in the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota.
Adults behind on routine vaccines may want to wait to catch up
Many adults are behind on routine vaccinations. Catching up is important, says Dr. Jon Hallberg, but those eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine may want to wait until after they get it.
Doctor uses own doubts about vaccine to assure patients
Dr. Nathan Chomilo is convinced that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, but he also doesn’t hesitate to tell his patients that he had many of the concerns they share with him in clinic.
Several types of COVID tests are available in Minnesota. Here’s what you need to know.
State health officials have said from the beginning that testing is essential to understanding the scope and impacts of the coronavirus across Minnesota. And on the individual level, it’s a helpful tool for navigating life in the pandemic. Here’s a breakdown of the kinds of tests available in the state, when you should seek one out — and what happens next.
Doctors believe the physical stress of overcoming COVID-19 and the emotional stress of living through a pandemic are leading to an increase in abnormal hair loss.