Health

Gov. Evers Limits Indoor Capacity in Wisconsin, Set to Use $100 Million to Help Small Businesses

No more than 25% the total capacity of an indoor public space is allowed beginning Thursday until November 6th.Ā 

MADISON, Wis.- Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced Tuesday he is dialing back the opening of the state, issuing his third emergency order to limit indoor building capacity to 25%, effective Thursday. While ramping up restrictions the Governor also announced $100 million in additional funding to support the state’s small businesses. No more than 25% the total capacity of an indoor…

MDH Continues to Urge Duluth Trump Rally Attendees Get Tested Frequently for COVID-19

State health officials said it's important that those who attended to get tested frequently until they've cleared the two-week mark.Ā 

ST. PAUL, Minn.- As President Donald Trump returns to the White House after being treated for the virus Monday, Minnesota state health officials continue to urge people who were at his rally in Duluth to get tested several times over the next few weeks. In a COVID-19 Briefing Monday, Minnesota Department of Health leaders said just because you test negative…

Local Dental Office Hosts Blood Drive In Honor Of Employee

"Kathy is really a positive presence in the office. She is always so welcoming, and a really great person to have around," said Amanda Newcomb, a dental hygienist.

DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands are diagnosed with leukemia every year. When it hit close to home for those at Piedmont Dental in Duluth, they jumped into action to help a member of their work family. Kathy Andrews, has been a loyal employee of Piedmont Dental for more than 30 years. “Kathy is really a positive presence in the office. She…

A Craft Market Looks To Spread Positive Energy

DULUTH, Minn. – If you don’t believe in magic, a local pop-up craft market and garage sale might persuade you to think differently. Dozens of handcrafted items, some with magical properties, were being sold including smudging sprays, fairy terrariums, and energy cleansing kits. The crafts aren’t only about introducing people to magic. It’s more about helping create positive energy. “It…

President Donald Trump’s Health is “Improving” But The Next 48 Hours Maybe “Critical” As He Fights Off COVID-19

"He is receiving outstanding, multi-disciplinary care for the state of the science for Coronavirus infection.," said Navy Commander Dr. Sean Conley

BETHESDA, Md. (AP)- The next two days may be “critical” for President Donald Trump as he undergoes treatment for the Coronavirus at a military hospital. His chief of staff revealed on Saturday the President went through a “very concerning” period Friday evening. “We’re still not on a clear path yet to a full recovery,” said Mark Meadows, the President’s chief…

Former NJ Governor Chris Christie Hospitalized With Mild “Flu-like” Symptoms

NEW JERSEY (AP) – Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie recently tweeted he has checked himself into a hospital after testing positive for coronavirus. Christie said he has been experiencing mild symptoms. After consulting with his doctors and due to his asthma, he decided it was best to be hospitalized as a precautionary measure. He is among several other politicians…

President Trump Hospitalized After Testing Positive For Covid-19

Sources say no transfer of power is expected to happen.

WASHINGTON (AP) – Sources are reporting President Donald Trump is feeling “feverish” and “fatigued” after being strickened with COVID-19. Friday night, Potus was flown to Walter Reed Military Hospital in Washington, where he is undergoing an experimental treatment. The president is expected to stay for a “few days” at the hospital and will continue to work from a presidental suite,…

Former WH Advisor Kellyanne Conway and Others Test Positive For Coronavirus

(AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) WASHINGTON (AP) – Former White House Advisor Kellynne Conway announced Friday evening she tested positive for COVID-19. This diagnosis comes just days after she attended a White House Rose Garden event on Saturday with others, who also have contracted the virus. Conway later tweeted she has a “light cough” and is feeling “fine.” Some of the…

President Trump, First Lady Test Positive For COVID-19

(Photo by Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images/CNN) WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump has tweeted that he and first lady Melania Trump have tested positive for the coronavirus. Trump’s positive test comes just hours after the White House announced that senior aide Hope Hicks came down with the virus after traveling with the president several times this week. Trump is 74 years…

Itasca County Health Dept. Urges Caution As COVID-19 Cases Climb

COVID Questions? Contact Itasca County COVID Message Line at 218-327-6784

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Cases of COVID-19 continue to climb daily in Itasca County, according to Kelly Chandler, department manager, Itasca County Public Health. During a mass drive-thru testing event on Sept. 23 at the Itasca County Fairgrounds, 907 individuals were tested, 15 positive cases were identified, and three of those cases were asymptomatic. As of Thursday, Oct. 1, the…

U of M Medical School Researchers Found Traces Of COVID-19 On Beaches

DULUTH, Minn. – Researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School Duluth are reporting they have found traces of the COVID-19 virus in water from four area beaches. The group has been taking samples from eight local beaches since July. Researchers have found evidence of the genetic makeup of the COVID-19 virus at Leif Erikson, Park Point, Brighton, and 42nd…

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, Health Officials Urge State to Take Virus Seriously Ahead of Winter

"If we do nothing differently, I would say it's a high likelihood that this is going to get much worse before it gets better," said the Chief Medical Officer.Ā 

WISCONSIN- As the state of Wisconsin comes off of their highest single day jump in COVID-19 cases this weekend, Governor Tony Evers and public health officials urge Wisconsinites to take the virus more seriously going into the winter. Positive cases in Wisconsin increased by more than 2,000 each day for the past four days. Monday, there were 2,367 more cases….

2,000-Plus Saliva Tests Given in First Week of Pilot Program at DECC

DULUTH, Minn. – The first week of COVID-19 testing by saliva in Duluth is complete and thousands showed up. St Louis County confirmed to FOX 21 Monday that 2,374 tests were given out between Wednesday, Sept. 23 and Sunday, Sept. 27. There was no immediate word on how many tests came back positive, but county officials said they were working…

MDH Warns Against Large Unsafe Gatherings as State Nears 100,000 COVID-19 Cases

Seven new deaths were also reported Monday, meaning 2,015 Minnesotans have now lost their lives to the virus, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Department of Health leaders spoke out Monday, as the total COVID-19 cases statewide gets closer to 100,000. After reaching a milestone over the weekend of 2,003,115 tests performed so far, 936 new cases were reported Monday, bringing the total to 97,638 since the pandemic began. Seven new deaths were also reported Monday, meaning 2,015 Minnesotans have now…

Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day Hits Home for Duluth Firefighter Who Lost Father in Line of Duty

Duluth Fire Equipment Operator Dylan Mills remembers his father Captain Robert Mills, while also spreading awareness of the many issues firefighters face.

DULUTH, Minn,- Flags flew at half-staff throughout the state of Minnesota Sunday, ordered by Governor Tim Walz to remember the firefighters across the state who have given their lives to keep the public safe, on Minnesota Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day. “It’s a day that’s honored every year,” said Duluth Fire Equipment Operator, Dylan Mills. “Just kind of a time of…

Carlton County Offering Drive-Thru Flu Vaccinations

CARLTON, Minn.– With the concern of flu season now during the COVID-19 pandemic, Carlton County is offering easy access to influenza vaccinations. The county puts on a flu vaccine clinic every year and while this year’s may look a bit different due to the pandemic, it’s still just as important as ever says county public health officials to get vaccinated….

St. Louis County Sees Highest Daily Jump in COVID-19 Cases; Many Linked to College Students

Of Friday's 73 new cases, 19 involve college-aged individuals.

DULUTH, Minn.- St. Louis County reported it’s highest jump in COVID-19 cases Friday, and what’s alarming health officials — much of those new cases are college students. On Friday the county reported 73 new confirmed cases; the previous highest jump was 50 just last week.Ā With this spike, there were more cases over one day than there were over the entire…

Duluth Fire Department Brings Awareness To Fire Prevention

In Duluth, there were more than 30 kitchen fires in 2019.

DULUTH, Minn. – October is fire prevention month. Every year members of the Duluth Fire Department visit area schools to teach students about potential fire dangers. The Duluth Fire Department is hoping by getting the message out community members and students will continue to think about fire prevention all year long. Kitchen-related incidents are one of the most common causes…

Grant Helps UMD Look Into Impacts Plastic Has On Lake Superior

DULUTH, Minn. – A professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biology at UMD recently received a grant for more than $100,000 from the Minnesota Sea Grant to look further into the impacts plastic has on Lake Superior and the St. Louis River Estuary. The research will provide solutions for unanswered questions such as how plastic in Lake Superior can…

University Of Minnesota Medical School Of Duluth Tests Campus Sewage For COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Several colleges and universities have already seen a large number of COVID-19 cases hit their campuses. Now researchers from the University of Minnesota Medical School of Duluth are conducting a study to further examine COVID-19 through sewage waste. A couple of times a week, wastewater from residence halls on both U of M Duluth and Twin Cities…

OB-GYN Offices Seeing Increase In Pregnant Patients

Patient visits for prenatal care are up by more than 30% at St. Luke's Hospital compared to August of 2019.

DULUTH, Minn. – While more people are staying home due to the global pandemic, St. Luke’s Hospital is seeing a surge in the number of newly pregnant moms visiting for prenatal care. Patient visits are up by more than 30%Ā  compared to August of 2019. Pregnant moms going in for regular check-ups can be very beneficial for helping to keep…

Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance Hosting Virtual Program, Fundraiser

Shine Teal for MOCA is Happening Friday, Sept. 25, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA) will be shining a light on ovarian cancer in new ways to help support and raise awareness for Ovarian Cancer Awareness month this September. The statewide nonprofit is hosting Shine Teal for MOCA, a free virtual event and auction, on Friday, Sept. 25 at 7:00 p.m….

Visitors Look To State Parks For Fall Activities

Visitation is up compared to last fall.

CARLTON, Minn. – Fall is typically a busy time for many state parks and Jay Cooke State Park is already seeing a spike in visitors looking to enjoy the start of the fall season. Park staff say they have seen a jump in daily park and campground visits going into the fall. In the midst of the pandemic, staff also…

Health Officials Urging People To Get Flu Shots Early

Each year, on average one in five people catch the flu.

DULUTH, Minn. – Health officials are urging people to get their flu shots early to help prevent potential impacts during the ongoing global pandemic. Both the flu and COVID-19 are illnesses that affect a person’s respiratory system. Each year, on average one in five people catch the flu. Having an outbreak of both at the same time could have major…

Free COVID-19 Testing Event Planned in Itasca County

Free Drive-Thru Testing is Happening Sept. 23 at the Itasca County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – COVID-19 continues to take a toll on employers and employees across Minnesota. Thursday during a weekly update from Itasca County Public Health Department, local health officials and management from area companies expressed the importance of communications between employees and employers when it comes to COVID-19 cases in the workplace. Employees are encouraged to brush up on…

St. Luke’s Participates In COVID-19 Study Conducted By CDC

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s hospital is one of six national healthcare organizations and the only in Minnesota taking part in a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The study is an opportunity to learn more about COVID-19, which could be beneficial for the treatment of the virus. There are still many questions surrounding the coronavirus,…

LSC Makes COVID-19 Case Numbers Public Through Database

DULUTH, Minn.- Lake Superior College is one of many Northland higher education institutions choosing to keep the public informed of its COVID-19 case numbers. LSC along with other schools like Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College have signed on to report case numbers to a public database. Every Wednesday, the colleges and universities will report their status and the…

COVID-19 Cases Confirmed at Three Duluth Schools in First Week Open

So far all that have been confirmed is at least one positive case each at Lincoln Park Middle School, Denfeld High School, and Lowell Elementary.Ā 

DULUTH, Minn.- With just one week into the school year, at least three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed within the Duluth School District. So far all that have been confirmed is at least one positive case each at Lincoln Park Middle School, Denfeld High School, and Lowell Elementary. We reached out to ISD 709 Tuesday for a total count…

Wisconsin Sees High COVID Infection Rate, Loss of FEMA Funding For PPE in Schools and Other Public Entities

MADISON, Wis. — Governor Tony Evers’ administration shared an update on Tuesday that Wisconsin is dealing with a high COVID-19 infection rate, while FEMA has pulled funding to help supply PPE to public entities like schools. During Tuesday’s update, the administration shared that Wisconsin hit a new record for the number of COVID-19 test results coming back positive in a…

Newly Remodeled Lake View Hospital Unveiled

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– The new Lake View Hospital in Two Harbors is now unveiled. Ā It’s a place hospital leaders are calling a major step forward for the future of healthcare in the region. More than two years ago, Lake View and St. Luke’s put plans in motion to strengthen and modernize the facilities in Two Harbors.Ā  The main goal was…

COVID-19 Case Confirmed at Lincoln Park Middle School

DULUTH, Minn. – The principal of Lincoln Park Middle School informed faculty and staff Monday of a confirmed COVID-19 case involving a ā€œmemberā€ of the school’s community. Principal Brian Kazmierczak said the infected person was last in the school Sept. 11. ā€œWe have worked with the MDH to identify those who had close contact with the case, and have communicated…

Socially Distant Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Instead of walking in large numbers down the Lakewalk, participants were encouraged to do their own version of the walk at home.

DULUTH, Minn.– Over 120,000 Americans died from Alzheimer’s in 2018 and today a popular annual event in Duluth helping raise awareness for the disease was still able to go on in a unique way during the pandemic. Walking to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer’s this year is more important now than ever. Those effected say with the added stress…

Health Officials Stress Importance of Influenza Vaccine as Flu Season Looms Ahead

The CDC says they have developed a test that will check for seasonal flu viruses, and the virus that causes COVID-19.Ā 

DULUTH, Minn.- While the COVID-19 pandemic has been the most prominent public health concern since march, each winter brings a new flu season. Which is why officials are urging people to get vaccinated. “Now is the time to get it,” stressed Diane Seiloff, Adult Services Coordinator for St. Louis County Public Health. Generally, flu symptoms include a fever, cough, sore…

OMC Smokehouse Shuts Doors Temporarily After Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19

The restaurant says they will be identifying anyone who may have been in contact with the employee and encourage them to get tested.

  DULUTH, Minn. — A popular restaurant in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Neighborhood, OMC Smokehouse is closing temporarily due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19 Sunday. “We are just working on trying to understand this and trying to do it the right way,” said owner Tom Hanson. In a post on their Facebook page Sunday, OMC Smokehouse said they will…

Health Officials Reminding Folks Of The Potential COVID-19 Risks During Labor Day

DULUTH, Minn. — Although celebrating the Labor Day holiday is often a way to take a break and say goodbye to summer, St. Louis County health officials are urging folks to use caution when participating in holiday gatherings. Labor day is typically a holiday where people celebrate with barbecues and other social events., but attending these types of gatherings can…

Passing Of Movie Star Chadwick Boseman Sparks The Importance Of Getting Checked For Colon Cancer

more than 50,000 are expected to die from the disease in 2020.

DULUTH, Minn. – Studies from the National Cancer Institute show colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and is responsible for more deaths than any other cancer besides lung cancer. Health professionals are stressing the importance of getting screened to uncover the illness in its early stages. Its been nearly a week since the passing of…

Itasca County Health Officials Express Flu Shot Importance This Fall

Flu Shots Will Be Available Within One to Two Weeks at Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As the Labor Day weekend inches closer, officials with Itasca County Public Health Department want to remind residents and visitors that their actions could have long-term effects amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Health officials say the last time they saw a huge spike in cases was two weeks after the 4th of July holiday weekend. This is…

Check Your Mailbox! Bridge to Health Survey Sent to 27,000 Northland Residents

The Survey is Sent to Residents in Northeastern Minnesota and Douglas County Once Every Five Years

DULUTH, Minn. – 27,000 Northland residents will soon receive a survey in the mail from Generations Health Care Initiatives. Known as the ‘Bridge to Health Survey,’ this document helps provide vital information regarding resident’s access to healthcare throughout Northeastern Minnesota and Douglas County, Wisconsin. The comprehensive regional health status survey asks residents about health conditions, access to mental health, dental,…

Therapist Offers Advice on When to Seek Help With Mental Health Concerns

Coffee Conversation: Dealing with Mental Health Amid COVID-19 Pandemic, Social Unrest

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting individuals on many different levels. Toss in political and social unrest across the country, and stress/anxiety have skyrocketed this year. Maren Barootian , a psychotherapist at Essentia Health in Duluth, says it’s important for those struggling with mental health issues to know they’re not alone. Barootian says it’s easy for many adults…

Dermatologists Are Noticing “Maskne” Is Becoming A Problem For Many People

Experts say sweat, oils, and bacteria can become trapped under the skin leading to a person to see a change.

DULUTH, Minn. – If you have been experiencing unexplained changes to the skin on your face you may be developing “maskne” or mask acne. Dermatologists have been seeing an increase in patients being treated for skin irritation and acne breakouts due to continuous mask-wearing. The skin acts a barrier, but when wearing a face covering, the skin becomes impaired. Experts…

Pregnancy Stress During Pandemic Can Have Impacts

Health professionals recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise a day can help improve your mood.

DULUTH, Minn. Stress can be a normal reaction to life changes. In the midst of a pandemic, pregnant women experiencing stress just might be too overwhelming. Pregnancy is supposed to be a happy time in a woman’s life. “I kind of felt like my part of my pregnancy taken from me,ā€ said Dakota DeFoe. When the coronavirus pandemic hit the…

Itasca County Educators Stress Preparation Before School Begins

Parents and Caregivers Are Encouraged to Practice Masking Ahead of Return to the Classroom

ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – Health and school leaders in Itasca County are urging parents to practice what local medical professionals are preaching to better help their children prepare for the upcoming abnormal school year. Officials stress the need for preventative action at home before students return to the classroom come September. Per Minnesota state guidelines, all students returning to in-person…

Tech-Up Program Helps Give Laptops To Those In Need

The program has given out nearly 150 laptops.

DULUTH, Minn. – Community Action Duluth is hoping to narrow the technology gap one person at a time. The organization’s Community Tech-Up program aims to provide free laptops and wifi to those who may not be able to afford it. The program is geared towards giving those individuals more access to educational and employment opportunities. The digital divide has already…

Local Tattoo Shop Helps Collect Donations For Toy Drive Honoring A Child That Lost His Life Too Soon

"He was the silliest funniest little boy ever. His personality was so unique. It was honestly indescribable," said Tayteaona Boykin, Baby J's mother.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A Twin ports tattoo shop is giving back by helping to collect donations for a toy drive honoring the memory of a child that lost his life way too soon. 13-month-oldĀ  Jamarr Harkins Jr., also known as Baby J, was born with a congenital heart defect. In his short lifetime, he fought to survive even after having…

New Guidelines For Long Term Care Facilities Released By MN Dept. Of Health

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health recently released new COVID-19 guidelines for longterm care facilities in the state. Long term care centers can be in either level one or level two. Each facility must factor in if they have had a case within the last 28 days before restrictions for visitation can be relaxed. Other factors such as…

Governor Tim Walz Sheds Light On Making Masks Available Across The State

Second Harvest will be distributing hundreds of faces masks to more than 30 food shelves in northern Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz visited the Second Harvest Food Bank in Duluth on Friday to shed light on how the state is using food distribution organizations to get thousands of reusable masks into the hands of Minnesotans in need. Mask wearing is widely considered to be one of the keys to slowing the spread of the Coronavirus….

UMD Prepares To Welcome Students In The Fall

DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Duluth has put new safety protocols as it prepares to welcome students back to campus. There are about three weeks remain before students can get back to in-person instruction at the university. But when student return, there will be a wide array of noticeable differences including plexiglass partitions at information desks. About 50…

St. Louis County Adds New COVID-19 Cases Faster Than Any Other County In The State

We are seeing almost 40% reporting to have visited restaurants and bars," said Amy Westbrook, public health director for St. Louis County.

DULUTH, Minn.- St. Louis County has added new Coronavirus cases faster than any other county in the state by reaching nearly 500 total. Initially, the county had a pretty low rate of COVID-19 cases at the start of the pandemic. Most cases were found in long term facilities. Now the numbers are growing as a result of community transmission. County…

Essentia Health Bills Approximately 1,000 Uninsured Patients For COVID-19 Tests

DULUTH, Minn. — A representative with Essentia Health in Duluth has admitted that the health care provider charged approximately 1,000 uninsured patients for COVID-19 tests, which are free under the federal CARES Act. The issue came to light after one patient told FOX21 he received a $171 bill for his COVID-19 test in July. That patient, Superior resident Nick Dalbec,…