Coronavirus in Minnesota: 103 new COVID-19 cases, 7 more deaths reported Thursday

Minnesota reported 103 new cases of COVID-19 and seven more deaths from the virus Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the state to 1,912 and deaths to 94. However, health officials say the number of confirmed cases is still considered to be an undercount due to a lack of widespread testing. 

Small business loan program runs out of money, no longer accepting applications

A popular small business relief program ran out of funds on Thursday morning, as billions of dollars in additional coronavirus aid remain stuck in congressional limbo.

Facebook to warn users who 'liked' coronavirus hoaxes

The social media company says it's going to notify users if they liked, reacted or commented on harmful misinformation removed from Facebook's news feed.

U of M team invents low-cost ventilator alternative that could save lives around the world
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Access to a ventilator could be the difference between life and death for many COVID-19 patients, but at some hospitals they don't have enough. A team at the University of Minnesota has invented a low-cost alternative that was just approved by the FDA. One of the student inventors joined the Buzz to talk about their work.

Minnesota extends unemployment benefits 13 weeks as applications climb

The latest safety net for unemployed workers kicked in Wednesday when Minnesota officials said they extended jobless benefits for an additional 13 weeks.

Unemployment claims jumped by 5.25M last week as coronavirus job carnage continues

The wave of layoffs that has engulfed the U.S. economy since the coronavirus struck caused 5.2 million more people to seek unemployment benefits last week.

New York to require face coverings on streets, public transportation

Face coverings will be required in busy spaces while New York City officials said they would create an emergency food reserve and take other steps to safeguard residents’ sustenance.

Minnesota receives more than $1 billion in federal funding, more on the way

The state of Minnesota received more than $1 billion from the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund, Gov. Tim Walz’s office announced Wednesday.

Is it Legal?: Creating a health care directive for worst-case scenario amid pandemic

Many have grown a bit reflective lately, facing their own mortality during this time of pandemic. That often means doing legal planning for worst-case scenarios. 

'Reopen Minnesota': Organizers looking for ways to loosen COVID-19 restrictions

The pressure is building in Minnesota to reopen the state’s economy, and while the Governor has said he wants that too, it might not be happening as quickly as some would like.

Minnesota businesses get approved for loans, but 'huge gaps' remain

Small business owners are becoming increasingly anxious and concerned with every passing day of this pandemic. Multiple businesses have already posed the question: is the assistance they're getting even going to make a difference? 

ACLU files lawsuit seeking release of some inmates from Moose Lake prison due to pandemic

The American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota has filed a lawsuit against the Minnesota Department of Corrections over its response to the coronavirus outbreak at Moose Lake Correctional Facility.

Mayo Clinic doctor explains potential blood plasma COVID-19 treatment

Much of the discussion around COVID-19 is possible treatments, including one that is showing promise called convalescent blood plasma.