AURORA, Minn. – A temporary COVID testing site is now open at the Aurora Community and Senior Center. Due to the recent spike in cases in the area, the Minnesota Department of Health got the go-ahead to open up a facility in the East Range Area. “What we noticed over the last few weeks specifically in town here and kind…
DULUTH, Minn. – Expecting a newborn is stressful for parents at any time, then toss in a global pandemic, and anxiety can soar through the roof. Dr. Michael Kassing is an OB-GYN with Essentia Health in Duluth. He says many of his patients are coming in with questions regarding whether or not they should receive the COVID-19 vaccine while pregnant….
DULUTH, Minn. – As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on healthcare systems across the nation, locally, Northland hospitals are thankful to see a decrease in new cases and severe hospitalizations. Dr. Jake Powell is a hospitalist with St. Luke’s in Duluth. He says as COVID-19 cases are decreasing, his daily routine continues to be inundated with many patients…
CLOQUET, Minn. – According to the Minnesota Department of Health, over one million Minnesotans have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Locally, in Carlton County, a region with a population of over 35,000, data shows more than 10,000 residents have received at least their first shot. Dr. Charles Kendall with Community Memorial Hospital in Cloquet says he’s…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – The vaccine rollout continues in Itasca County, but demand is still far greater than the supply they’ve received. Health officials say nearly 16 percent of the population in Itasca County has received at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. According to Itasca County Public Health, phase 1a of vaccinations should be complete within the next…
DULUTH, Minn. – On the first Friday each February, American Heart Month, the nation rallies together to ignite a wave of red from coast to coast. Go Red for Women Day serves to raise awareness for heart attack and stroke among women. According to the American Heart Association, more women than men die from cardiovascular disease each year. It’s estimated…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – COVID vaccinations continue to roll out for residents in Itasca County. Public health officials say they are currently in the process of inoculating those working in schools and childcare facilities, as well as residents who are 65 and older. In the past seven days, 35 new cases of the virus have been confirmed in Itasca County….
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Public health officials in Itasca County say they’re close to finishing Phase 1a of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and will soon begin Phase 1b. Kelly Chandler, division manager for Itasca County Public Health, says the first phase is expected to be complete within one to two weeks. The second phase will vaccinate residents 65 years and…
DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s in Duluth is now offering an emergency use COVID-19 antibody treatment that medical experts say has been proven to reduce the length of hospitalizations. The monoclonal antibody treatment is produced in a lab. The antibodies work to attack the COVID-19 virus in the patient’s system. St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Specialist, Dr. Andrew Thompson, says the…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – The first COVID-19 briefing of 2021 comes with uplifting news from Itasca County. The county’s public health officials are reporting a steady decrease in cases throughout December. Over the past seven days, 53 new cases have been identified in the county. Since the start of the pandemic, a total of 2,751 residents have tested positive, and…
DULUTH, Minn. – With healthy eating on the minds of many in the New Year, London Road Nutrition is looking to help you cut down on calories and receive an extra boost of energy. The business offers a wide variety of meal replacement shakes in over 30 different flavors. The shakes are roughly 200-250 calories, and include 24 grams of…
DULUTH, Minn. – While cases of COVID-19 continue to slightly decrease across Minnesota, hospitals in the Northland are still feeling the strain. Dr. Jon Pryor, President of Essentia Health, chatted with FOX 21’s Brett Scott Wednesday morning about vaccine distribution, the current situation inside Northland hospitals, and the outlook for 2021. “I want to thank everyone in the Northland for…
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…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As of Thursday, Oct. 29, 86 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Itasca County in the past seven days, bringing the county total to 794. Currently, nine Itasca County residents are hospitalized from the disease, with two in the ICU. There has been a total of 17 deaths in the county since the beginning of…
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….
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…
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…
SUPERIOR, Wis. – As winter approaches and the COVID-19 pandemic continues, local veterinarians have a reminder for pet owners, and also those in the neighborhood looking to keep rodents away. With COVID-19 continuing to cause health concerns for many, the staff at Superior Animal Hospital want to remind new and returning customers that safety is of the utmost importance for…
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…
DULUTH, Minn. – Despite the cancellation of the 2020 Lake Superior Harvest Festival, the Lake Superior Sustainable Farming Association (LSSFA) has launched a new website called ‘Lake Superior Roots & Recipes,’ featuring recipes, cooking tips, and information about our local food system. Organizer Julie Allen says since the COVID-19 pandemic began, more people are finding themselves preparing meals and eating…
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….
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…
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,…
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…
DULUTH, Minn. – Gardens offer ample amounts of fresh ingredients throughout the summer months, but it can be difficult to come up with the perfect recipes to help use up your entire harvest. This is a classic, “you don’t need a recipe dish.” Vary the vegetables and add a protein on the side. Chef Arlene Coco says you can even…
ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – Officials say coordination has been key to successful COVID-19 response strategies inside long term care facilities in Itasca County. Health professionals and management from many of the senior care facilities in the county provided an update Thursday morning on response efforts. Management from The Emeralds at Grand Rapids report they haven’t had any new cases of…
DULUTH, Minn. – Nothing represents the tastes of summer more than a fresh picked meal from the garden. In this week’s Cooking Connection, Chef Arlene Coco teaches FOX 21’s Brett Scott how to make a delicious, easily handcrafted garden bruschetta using fresh picked herbs and vegetables from a Duluth community garden. Garden Bruschetta Recipe Serving size: 6 Ingredients: 4 tablespoons…
DULUTH, Minn. – We’ve all been there – Long days at work making for sleepy afternoons waiting for the clock to strive five. Each year millions of energy drinks are sold in the United States. Now the Northland has a local option for those looking to sip on a healthier boost of energy. “You throw it out, it comes back,”…
DULUTH, Minn. – Routine medical exams and cancer screenings are taking a back burner for many people amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a worry for many in the medical community, as this could have negative impacts in the years to come. Dr. Roberto Fernandez, a St. Luke’s Oncologist, says it’s vital for patients to come in for routine cancer…
DULUTH, Minn. – “I think there’s room for improvement, at least here in our local community,” said Dr. Andrew Thompson, Infectious Disease Specialist with St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth. Dr. Thompson made this statement when asked about his personal view on how safe and cautious residents in the Northland have been during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan…
SUPERIOR, Wis. – After many months of hard work and dedication behind the scenes, Jenny Van Sickle, Superior city council member, and many fine sponsors are thrilled to be launching a new bike safety program called ‘Sweet Streets.’ The launch is happening Saturday, June 20 from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Superior Public Library. Families are welcome and encouraged…
ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. -With school out and the coronavirus pandemic continuing to have a lasting impact on communities, health officials in Itasca County want to stress the importance of nutrition and food access services in the region. Second Harvest North Central Food Bank continues to provide food to 130 agencies in the region, from International Falls to Princeton. Research shows…
ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – As of Friday Itasca County Public Health Officials confirm 53 positive COVID-19 cases within the county. The youngest case is reported in an elementary aged individual. The county also reports a total of nine deaths related to coronavirus. Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital has tested over 1,000 residents for COVID-19. This comes as health professionals continue…
DULUTH, Minn. – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, dietitians at St. Luke’s want to remind everyone to practice food safety precautions. Experts recommend limiting your consumption of meats and mixing in a large number of fruits and vegetables during your backyard barbeques. St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian Dr. Brenda Schwerdt suggests grilling peaches and pineapple as well as vegetables like peppers,…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As of Friday, health officials in Itasca County confirm three additional COVID-19 related deaths bringing the total to five. Three of the deceased were males in their 80s, one was a male in his 90s, and details surrounding the fifth death remain unknown at this time. Itasca County reported 42 cases of coronavirus as of Friday…
DULUTH, Minn. – May is Huntington’s Disease awareness month across the nation. The illness is a fatal genetic disorder causing the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This weekend, Northlanders are encouraged to walk at their own pace and help raise awareness of the disease. The Huntington’s Disease Society of America’s (HDSA) is launching the Duluth Virtual Team…
DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is allowing elective surgical procedures to start again on Monday, May 11 after hospitals take preventative measures to ensure continued safety. Before surgical dates, both St. Luke’s and Essentia Health will be testing patients for COVID-19 three days before their procedure. They will then ask patients to quarantine themselves up until the date…
DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth urge patients to come into their facilities if you are experiencing a medical emergency. They’ve received reports of patients receiving mixed messages when it comes to handling medical emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. “If you have a medical problem, it’s safe to come see your physician,” said Dr. Nick Johnson,…
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – As of Friday, there are 11 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Itasca County. While the numbers remain low compared to nearby St. Louis County (73 cases, 11 deaths), officials are seeing an increase in calls and outreach to local mental health service centers. First Call for Help of Itasca County is a private, nonprofit community organization…
DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland Foundation has been serving seven counties including five tribal nations in Northeastern Minnesota since the 1980s. The foundation strives to economically support residents and businesses in the region, especially during financially difficult times. “We’re doing our best to connect our businesses and our people with those resources both in our region, in the state, and…
DULUTH, Minn. – With a nationwide shortage of N95 masks, and states told they must find supplies themselves, it’s becoming more difficult by the day to obtain a stockpile for Northland hospitals. On Wednesday, National Bank of Commerce gifted St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth a supply of 4,000 N95 masks for healthcare workers on the front lines to utilize. Another…
DULUTH, Minn. – St. Louis County Public Health along with AEOA and partners such as CHUM is working to make sure those without a safe place to shelter if they were to test positive for COVID-19 can self-isolate. Four hotels would be used at various locations throughout St. Louis County – one each in Duluth, Hibbing, Virginia, and Ely. According…
DULUTH, Minn. – Giving birth or even the thought of starting a family can be a difficult topic to deal with during the stress of the coronavirus pandemic. Thankfully, local professionals and area mothers are teaming up to help expecting parents. Stacy Holden is the creator of the Birth and Baby Fair Duluth. “We have an amazing birth community here…
BAYFIELD CO., Wis. – On Thursday the Bayfield County Health Department confirmed a second case of COVID-19 in Bayfield County. This case is also considered the first known case related to community spread in the county. The lab-confirmed positive case received on March 26 did not have a history of travel or contact with a known positive case of COVID-19….
DULUTH, Minn. – If you get your hair cut in Minnesota, you won’t be able to anymore – at least until March 27 at 5:00 p.m. Affective Tuesday, March 17 at 5:00 p.m., under orders from Governor Tim Walz, hair and nail salons as well as spas have been ordered to close due to concerns over COVID-19. This news is…
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota health officials have confirmed the state’s fourth case of the coronavirus in a person in Olmsted County. That county’s public health department planned a news conference later Wednesday and no additional details were immediately available. The state’s earlier cases involve residents of Anoka, Ramsey and Carver counties. The state earlier this week set aside $21 million…
DULUTH, Minn. – The March food drive is happening at the Duluth Salvation Army. In the past, the organization has collected over $18,000 and more than 11,000 pounds of food. During the month of March, all donations of food and money will be matched from the Minnesota FoodShare Campaign. “It really helps a lot with just helping get over a…
Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Anthony Peoples for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, March 9, 2020. Categories: Community, Coronavirus, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, health, Local News, midday update
SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this weeks Active Adventures Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot heads to a YMCA class with the SilverSneakers! This a group of 65+ year olds working out together to keep their bodies healthy. They focus on stretching, warm ups, exercises, a yoga cool down and more! Increasing flexibility and helping with balance to prevent falls, the class builds…
WRENSHALL, Minn. – Classroom success stems from a good healthy start to the day. March 2 – 6, thousands of schools around the nation will recognize National School Breakfast Week. Locally, Valerie Dahl, Food Service Director for Wrenshall Public Schools, is taking this time to share with the community what she and various staff members are doing to promote healthy…
