New COVID-19 variant found in Vietnam is hybrid of India, UK strains

Vietnam's health minister said the new variant could be responsible for a recent surge, which has spread to 30 of the country’s 63 municipalities and provinces.

Minnesota reports 364 new COVID-19 cases, 5 more deaths Friday

Over 2.9 million Minnesotans over the age of 12, around 62%, have at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the latest data from state health officials. 

Minnesota businesses fully reopen Friday, but where are the workers?

Minnesota's remaining COVID-19 capacity limits and distancing requirements ended Friday, allowing businesses to fully reopen. With pandemic-weary customers hungry to dine out again, restaurants are desperate for workers because 100,000 Minnesotans left the labor force in 2020 and haven't returned.

More than 61% of Minnesotans over 12 have at least 1 COVID-19 vaccine dose

Over 61% of Minnesotans over the age of 12 have at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and around 54% are fully vaccine, the latest data from the state health department shows. 

US unemployment claims fall to 406,000, a new pandemic low

The number of Americans filing for unemployment benefits dropped last week to 406,000, a new pandemic low and evidence that the job market is strengthening.

Facebook ends ban on posts claiming COVID-19 is man-made

Facebook will no longer ban posts suggesting COVID-19 was man-made amid mounting calls to further investigate the pandemic’s origins, marking a reversal for the social media giant.

Federal government paid out thousands in PPP loan to fake orange grove in Minnesota

Minnesota doesn't seem like the most hospitable spot for an orange farm. But federal authorities paid out thousands to a fraudulent PPP loan to “Shaila Big Fresh Oranges” in Mantorville.

Diapers, toilet paper, other consumer goods to cost more starting in June

The prices of many everyday items will start to rise beginning next month as the country’s economy eases its way out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Xcel Energy launches forgiveness program for those behind on bills

Xcel Energy launched a new program that provides up to 75% past-due forgiveness for those behind on energy bills due to the COVID-19 pandemic.