Health

Health
Pfizer and BioNTech begin testing an omicron-specific COVID-19 vaccine
Though people who are vaccinated and boosted appear to be better protected against omicron, the highly contagious variant has still led to breakthrough cases and a surge in infections worldwide.
Osterholm: Twin Cities emerging from 'viral blizzard'
University of Minnesota infectious disease specialist Michael Osterholm predicted a “viral blizzard” due to the omicron variant of COVID-19 a few weeks ago. He says the Twin Cities is beginning to emerge from that, with case counts dropping daily.
Minnesota groups unite to oppose marijuana legalization
Several businesses, trade groups and social organizations formed the Minnesotans Against Marijuana Legalization on Monday as the measure’s supporters signal another push for the issue ahead of the start of the legislative session next week.
The doctor didn't show up, but the hospital ER still billed $1,012
A toddler burned his hand on the stove. The pediatrician told mom over the phone to take him to the emergency room. But after a long wait for a doctor who never showed, they left. Then the bill came.
Why Tonga is opting for 'contactless' humanitarian aid
It's a pandemic predicament. Tongans are desperate for help after the volcanic eruption — but with only one recorded case of COVID-19 in their island nation, they’re also eager to keep the virus out.
Why rapid COVID tests aren't more accurate, and how scientists hope to improve them
Recent research — and plenty of anecdotes — suggest some rapid tests may be less sensitive at detecting the omicron variant if you don't have symptoms. Here's how researchers hope to make them more effective.
Why humans are losing the race against superbugs
A new report in The Lancet finds that in 2019, antibiotic-resistant bacteria killed 1.2 million people — more than were killed by malaria or HIV/AIDS. The problem is mounting in lower-income nations.