Mask requirement returns for Walmart, Publix employees

Starting Monday, all Publix employees will be required to wear masks, and Walmart employees will be required to wear face coverings if they work in areas with high infection rates. It remains optional for customers.

History of vaccine mandates in the United States

As COVID-19 vaccination rates have stalled in the U.S. and talk of mandates spreads, here’s a look back at the history of vaccine mandates in the country and how the Supreme Court has routinely defended states’ rights to enforce them.

As delta variant surges, Fauci warns more 'pain and suffering' ahead

The nation’s top infectious disease expert is warning that more “pain and suffering” is ahead as COVID-19 cases climb again and officials plead with unvaccinated Americans to get inoculated.

Poor air quality changes weekend plans across metro

The unprecedented smoky air from burning wildfires in Canada that has prompted an air quality alert in Minnesota had many businesses and public centers closing outdoor services.

Face masks can help protect you from smoky air in Minnesota

As the air quality takes another dip this weekend in Minnesota, a pandemic tool could come in handy to combat the smoke.

All Broadway theaters to require vaccinations, masks through October

In response to the surging delta variant of the coronavirus, all Broadway theaters in New York City will now require proof of COVID vaccination to attend a show. Masks must also be worn, announced the Broadway League.

Should I get tested for COVID-19 if I'm vaccinated?

U.S. health officials say people who are fully vaccinated should get tested if they've been around someone who has COVID-19.

Minnesota will offer $100 for new COVID-19 vaccinations

Minnesota will offer $100 per new COVID-19 vaccination as part of a new effort to increase vaccinations numbers by President Biden.

FDA approves swap for cheaper insulin over pricier brand-name

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is allowing the problem-plagued factory of contract manufacturer Emergent BioSolutions to resume production of COVID-19 vaccine.

COVID-19 vaccine incentive: Biden calls for $100 payout to newly vaccinated

Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases among mostly unvaccinated Americans due to the fast-spreading delta variant, President Joe Biden called on local governments to offer $100 to newly vaccinated people as an incentive.

Minnesota kicks off 'Vax to School' campaign to get eligible students vaccinated before school year starts

Minnesota health and education leaders kicked off their “Vax to School” campaign Thursday, urging parents to go get their kids vaccinated against COVID-19 before school starts this fall.

AstraZeneca to seek US approval of COVID-19 vaccine in 2nd half of 2021

AstraZeneca said it will seek U.S. authorization for its COVID-19 vaccine in the second half of 2021, a timeframe that has been delayed.

MDH: All K-12 students, staff should wear masks in schools this fall

Minnesota health and education officials are recommending all students, teachers, staff and visitors in school buildings should wear masks when they return to school this fall, regardless of vaccination status.

Mom urges vaccination after loss of ‘healthy’ 28-year-old son to COVID-19

After losing her son to COVID-19, Christy Carpenter and her family are encouraging hesitant people to get the vaccine — if not for themselves, then for the people around them.

Officials plead for blood donations amid shortage

The Minnesota Red Cross is asking for more people to donate blood as the ongoing shortage continues.