Health

Wisconsin Health Officials Discuss How COVID-19 Vaccine Will Be Distributed

WI DHS stressed the safety of the vaccines, and how long they still have to go before reaching the public.

MADISON, Wis.- In Wisconsin Monday, health experts held a news conference answering COVID-19 vaccine questions. They say of the two vaccines awaiting FDA approval, Pfizer’s would require cold storage at -70°C±10°C for up to 10 days unopened in the state’s Healthcare Emergency Response Coalition (HERC) regions before going to clinics. Moderna’s, which does not require cold storage, would go directly to…

Local Colleges Keeping Nursing Pipeline Going During Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – The pandemic is creating a strong need for more healthcare workers. Northland colleges and universities are keeping the pipeline going to help address the urgency to fill open healthcare jobs. Both Lake Superior College and the College of St. Scholastica have students ready to graduate this month. This may be perfect timing as many healthcare settings in…

Caution Again Advised for Christmas; Vaccine on Horizon for Public in 2021 Gov. Walz Says

After a surge in cases over Thanksgiving, the Governor said guidance will likely remain for Christmas, and public access to the vaccine in 2021.

ST. PAUL, Minn.- Governor Tim Walz and State Health leaders spoke out in a COVID-19 briefing Monday after a Thanksgiving weekend like no other. They stressed continued mitigation efforts by Minnesotans, with the horizon of a vaccine in the distance — in 2021. “Minnesotans did a pretty good job staying home, but there’s some data on movement especially the airport…

Local Frontline Workers Give A Special Thank You To Other Frontline Workers

"I hope they feel recognized. I hope they feel they are part of the team," Duluth Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police and Fire Departments are sharing their appreciation for the other emergency teams that sometimes are not recognized nearly enough for their efforts. A fleet of emergency vehicles from both departments flooded the streets outside St. Luke’s Hospital to help show appreciation for other frontline workers. “It’s a beautiful thing to see the frontline heroes…

Healthcare Workers Describe Reality Inside Overwhelmed Duluth Hospitals

Medical Professionals From St. Luke's, Essentia Health Paint Picture of a Grim Reality

DULUTH, Minn. – Frontline workers from St. Luke’s and Essentia Health are speaking out, sharing what they experience during a routine shift amid the global COVID-19 pandemic. Critical care doctors and ICU nurses want residents to know the surge is here, and it’s going to take all of us working together to help limit the spread, and save our most…

Adult & Teen Challenge Northland Center Experiencing COVID-19 Outbreak

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge Northland Center in Duluth is currently experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak among staff and residents. Right now, 19 staff members and nine residents have tested positive for the virus. Two of the staff members had to be hospitalized, and one of them is still in the hospital. The residents and staff affected…

Virus Deaths Hit New High in Wisconsin, Gov. Evers Proposes New Relief Bill

Evers released a proposal to tackle the pandemic, including prohibiting evictions and foreclosures through 2021.

WISCONSIN.- Deaths from the coronavirus in Wisconsin have hit a new daily high. The state reported 92 deaths Tuesday with 7,090 new cases. This comes as Governor Tony Evers released a proposal to tackle the pandemic. It includes proposals that would prohibit evictions and foreclosures through 2021 and continue the suspension of a one-week waiting period before people can collect…

Gov. Walz Expected to Force Tighter COVID Restrictions on Sports, Dining, Gyms — Again

The Governor is expected to announce new restrictions on bars, restaurants, sports, gyms, and social gatherings Wednesday Evening.

ST. PAUL, Minn.- Governor Tim Walz is preparing to announce sweeping new COVID-19 restrictions during a statewide televised speech Wednesday night –as the amount of Minnesotans defying the rules he said, is hampering the state’s fight against the virus and pushing hospitals to the brink. According to a spokesperson with the Governor Tuesday, those new limits will involve bars, restaurants,…

Nurses Make Emotional Plea Backing Gov. Walz’s Frustration at Lack of ‘Social Compliance’ of COVID Guidelines

"I think it's obvious we're going to have to do more mitigation efforts," Gov. Walz said, as the state is expected to surpass 300,00 cases by Thanksgiving.

ST. PAUL, Minn.- A frustrated Minnesota Governor Tim Walz looked to nurses and doctors from around the state to illustrate how the COVID-19 surge is pushing them to their limits — in an effort to appeal to those who may not be following prevention guidelines. “What I recognize right now is that we’re in a place in this country where…

Some Duluth College Students Balancing School, Work, and Caring for Family Members with Alzheimer’s

  DULUTH, Minn. — Two college students in Duluth helped raise $2,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association through the local restaurant they work at, motivated by their personal connections to the disease that currently has no cure. Adam Streiff and Johanna Unden work at the restaurant Tavern On The Hill in Duluth, while also studying for their college classes and caring…

Wisconsin Surpasses 300,000 Total COVID-19 Cases

The state's chief medical officer warned this week that Wisconsin soon might not be able to adequately treat patients.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – It took Wisconsin seven months to log 100,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and it took only 36 more days to double that number. On Friday – a mere 18 days later – the state blew past 300,000 cases, breaking a record daily high set just a day earlier. There were 7,777 new cases reported by the…

Minnesota Hits New Record of Daily COVID-19 Cases

Since the pandemic arrived in Minnesota in March, the state’s pandemic tallies include 216,028 positive cases, 12,915 hospitalizations and 2,874 deaths.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota health officials have reported 35 new deaths and a record 8,703 new coronavirus cases. The Star Tribune reports the state’s one-day case count came on a record volume of about 52,311 newly completed tests. Since the pandemic arrived in Minnesota in March, the state’s pandemic tallies include 216,028 positive cases, 12,915 hospitalizations and 2,874 deaths. Residents…

Itasca County Doctor: Hospitals At Capacity, Residents Urged to Follow Guidelines

Itasca County Public Health Officials Ask Residents to Wear Masks, Social Distance, Avoid Gatherings

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Health officials in Itasca County are pleading with residents to do their part to help limit the spread of COVID-19. This plea comes as 241 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in the county within the past seven days. “Unfortunately, we know that not everyone is helping us minimize the spread, and keeping out healthcare resources…

Superior Police Work to Mitigate COVID-19 Exposure Within Department

To date, six officers have tested positive since March and only one officer is in quarantine awaiting test results.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Police Department is also dealing with COVID-19 exposures within its department of 65 officers and staff. To date, six officers have tested positive since March and only one officer is in quarantine awaiting test results. Assistant Chief John Kiel told FOX 21 most officers have a take-home vehicle and are encouraged to spend as little time…

Flu Shot Could Be Linked To Helping Protect Against COVID-19

Although there is a link, experts say more research needs to be done.

DULUTH, Minn. – A flu shot could potentially serve a stronger purpose this year other than just shielding you from the influenza virus. Researchers are now looking into the possibility of the flu shot also helping protect some people from catching severe cases of COVID-19. The likelihood of the Influenza vaccination providing protection against COVID-19 shows promise, but knowing for…

Essentia Health President Urges Residents to Follow Guidelines as COVID Hospitalizations Increase

Dr. Jon Pryor, President, Essentia Health, Urges Northlanders to Be Smart, Mask Up, Follow COVID Safety Guidelines

DULUTH, Minn. – The coronavirus is making headlines daily, however, as COVID fatigue begins to set in, Dr. Jon Pryor, President of Essentia Health, is urging Northland residents to remain vigilant, and exercise extreme caution as the virus begins to take a toll on local hospitals. “Things are going okay, but things are tight. Our resources are being challenged, and…

St. Louis County Continues Battle Against Coronavirus

DULUTH, Minn.– St. Louis County has set a new daily record with 167 new cases on Wednesday. This is following a startling upward trend that health experts say is coming from community transmission throughout the county. There’s a growing worry among county health experts that the virus could spread to places with vulnerable groups like care facilities. “Now we’re seeing…

Some Long Term Care And Assisted Living Facilities Are In Need Of Workers

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is requesting help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. He wants FEMA to support the needs of long-term care and similar facilities in the state suffering from staffing shortages. There are hundreds of long term care facilities right here in the Northland. As COVID-19 lingers, one of their biggest challenges is having enough…

Record-Breaking Growth in COVID-19 Cases Causing Concern in Northland

St. Louis County Health Officials said in the last two months, half of the county's coronavirus cases have been a result of community spread.

DULUTH, Minn.- As the state of Minnesota reported their highest daily COVID-19 case amount since the pandemic began City of Duluth officials, St. Louis County Public Health, School leaders and top doctors from St. Luke’s and Essentia say that upward trend is visible in the Twin Ports as well. Since Wednesday, St. Louis County is reporting a record jump of…

Duluth Woman Shares Battle With Breast Cancer at Early Age

Nicole Elysian Was Diagnosed with Breast Cancer at the Age of 34

DULUTH, Minn. – Hearing you’ve been diagnosed with cancer is never fun, at any age. For 35-year-old Duluthian Nicole Elysian, Halloween of 2019 is a day she will never forget. After experiencing abnormalities on her breast, she made the decision to set up an appointment with medical professionals at Essentia Health. She was 34-years-old at the time of her diagnosis….

Tips for Having a Safe, Healthy Halloween Amid COVID-19 Concerns

Mary Cherne, St. Lukes Clinical Dietition, Provides Safer, Healthier Alternatives When it Comes to Celebrating the Holidays Amid COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Having a safe and healthy Halloween will have a whole new meaning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Mary Cherne deals with dietitian, clinical nutrition, and diabetes care at St. Luke’s in Duluth. She’s urging Northlanders to err on the side of caution to keep yourself and loved ones safe this holiday season. This comes as the CDC is…

A New App Is Providing Easy Access To Help For Police Officers Dealing With Stress

DULUTH, Minn. – Working in law enforcement can be stressful for officers in the line of duty. Hoping to combat potential mental health concerns, the Duluth Police Department is testing out a new app called Peer Connect to help provide additional support for officers dealing with stressful situations. “Everybody in this organization, because of the type of work we do,…

St. Luke’s New 3D Mammogram Machine Makes More Detailed Breast Cancer Scans Accessible in Superior

The first 3D system in Superior allowing patients to get more detailed scans without traveling as far as Hibbing or Mountain Iron.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A new machine unveiled at St. Luke’s Mariner Medical Center in Superior will now provide more detailed 3D mammograms, which are known to detect cancer earlier. The new Hologic 3D Mammography system captures 15 different images for each scan and divides them into one milometer layers so doctors can scan the breast tissue for abnormalities — detecting cancers…

Flu Shots Available At Essentia Health Vaccination Clinic At Miller Hill

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is now offering a flu shot clinic at the Miller Hill Mall, to help accommodate the need for more people to be vaccinated. Patient volumes for Essentia Health’s walk-in vaccination clinic at the mall have been a little slower than anticipated so far. Health officials are expecting a surge to start soon. The pandemic poses…

Firefighters Deliver Dinner to Brighten Day for Young Boy with Leukemia

Firefighters brought spaghetti to first-grader Roman Laakso and his family, thanks to his kindergarten teacher who is married to one of the firefighters.  

DULUTH, Minn.- Members of the Duluth Fire Department Monday boosted the spirits of a young boy just starting his battle with Leukemia. Firefighters delivered dinner to first-grader Roman Laakso and his family, thanks to his kindergarten teacher who is married to one of the firefighters. Little Roman was diagnosed not long ago, and according to his GoFundMe, the family says…

COVID-19 Cases on the Rise in St. Louis County

DULUTH, Minn.– Cases of Coronavirus are continuing to rise in Saint Louis County. After adding more than 100 cases since Friday, public health officials are worried about high rates of community transmission in the county. Adding that when community transmission increases, it can be challenging for cases to go down. “It’s very difficult to institute prevention and control measures where…

MDH Links COVID-19 Cases to Trump, Pence, and Biden campaign visits

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting that there are multiple COVID-19 cases linked to recent presidential campaign visits in Minnesota. A representative with the MDH said that there are three cases linked to the President Trump rally that happened on Sept. 30th in Duluth. Two of those people live in the same home, so the department…

St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Expert Discusses COIVD-19 Severity, Holiday Concerns

Dr. Andrew Thompson is an Infectious Disease Physician at St. Luke's in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Daily COVID-19 testing data released by the Minnesota Department of Health shows a steady rise in COVID-19 cases, deaths, and hospitalizations in recent weeks, and it’s prompting local health experts to speak out with a reminder for residents. “The recent rise in COVID-19 cases is definitely causing concern,” said St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Dr. Andrew Thompson. Thompson…

Essentia Health Offering Saturday Mammography Clinics in October

Doctors Urge Women to Make Regular Mammograms Part of Your Lifelong Health Care Routine

DULUTH, Minn. – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While routine medical exams should be a part of your routine, medical experts at Essentia Health in Duluth are taking the month to offer quality-care to those in need. Doctors say routine screening mammograms can help your provider detect breast cancer before you have symptoms. Diagnostic mammograms help identify cancer after…

New Art Exhibit at UWS Explores Struggles With Alcoholism

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A new exhibit is now showing in the Kruk Art Gallery at The University of Wisconsin-Superior. The exhibition called Aqua Vitae features the work of two artists exploring their own struggles with alcoholism. The visual imagery also looks deeper into the triggers and the problematic relationships these artists have had with alcohol. “I think it’s really fascinating…

Superior Businesses React To New Mandate To Limit Capacities

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Cases continue to steadily rise in Wisconsin. Starting Thursday, Governor Tony Evers is limiting the capacity for indoor places like bars, restaurants, and stores across the state to help reduce the public’s exposure to the virus. The newly issued order only allows these indoor businesses in Wisconsin to operate with 25% capacity or less. For some of…

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. 

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. 

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. 

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….