Mayo Clinic announced Tuesday that Dr. Gianrico Farrugia is stepping down as president and CEO at the end of this year.

Farrugia has led the Rochester-based system since 2019 but has worked as a physician with Mayo for more than 35 years. He previously served as CEO of Mayo Clinic in Florida.

"I’m tremendously proud of how Mayo Clinic has advanced our patient-centered mission and set the standard for exceptional healthcare over the last eight years," Farrugia said in a statement. "Serving as president and CEO has been a true privilege, and I am certain that our momentum will continue — driven as always by the commitment of our staff to discover new cures and provide more hope and healing to more patients."

An email to employees indicates that Farrugia plans to continue working at Mayo as a gastroenterologist, according to MPR News.

His tenure is consistent with the amount of time that a CEO typically stays on at Mayo.

Mayo has been ranked by Newsweek as the world's best hospital for eight consecutive years. It also posted a record profit of $1.5 billion in 2025.

Richard Davis, chair of the Mayo Clinic Board of Trustees, credits Farrugia with helping to position the system "at the forefront of a rapidly changing healthcare landscape."

"His leadership has strengthened our ability to innovate, collaborate and meet the evolving needs of patients around the world," Davis said in a statement. "We are grateful for his contributions and confident that Mayo Clinic is prepared to continue delivering excellence to those we serve and lead the future of healthcare."

Mayo's next president and CEO will be elected by the board of trustees in November and will officially take over in January.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) said the individual "may have briefly been exposed overseas to someone who was on board the MV Hondius cruise and tested positive for the hantavirus (Andes virus)."

"We want to emphasize that the risk to the public remains very low," the agency wrote in a statement, noting the person being monitored daily for symptoms is "very cooperative" and doesn't currently show signs of illness.

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"Hantavirus has been in the news a lot lately, and we understand that news of a person being monitored in Minnesota may raise concerns," the agency shared. "We are working closely with our partners in local public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and healthcare."

Additional information about the person in Minnesota is being withheld to protect their privacy, according to MDH.

As of Monday, all passengers on the cruise ship affected by the deadly outbreak had been evacuated and flown to various countries to enter quarantine.

A total of 11 cases, either confirmed or probable, have been reported, as well as three deaths.

"Hantaviruses are a known group of viruses carried by rodents which can spread to people and make them very sick," MDH shared.

The agency continued: "The Andes virus is the only type of hantavirus known to spread from person to person; however, person-to-person spread is usually limited to people who have close contact with an infected person with symptoms."

One major concern related to the outbreak is the long incubation associated with hantavirus, with symptoms sometimes appearing weeks after exposure.

Currently, 18 Americans that were on the cruise ship are in quarantine at medical centers in Nebraska and Atlanta as health officials warn the number of cases could grow.

The MV Hondius left Argentina on April 1 and the first death from hantavirus happened onboard on April 11.

In its announcement on Friday, the two organizations said the merger would result in a $600 million investment into North Memorial's two Twin Cities hospitals: North Memorial Health – Robbinsdale Hospital, a safety-net Level 1 trauma center; and Maple Grove Hospital, which is one of the state's leading maternity care facilities.

North Memorial also has 22 clinics under its banner, most of them situated in the north and northwest Twin Cities metro.

Sioux Falls-based Sanford already has an extensive network of rural clinics and hospitals across the Dakotas and the western third of Minnesota – with 94 facilities in Minnesota alone – and has made previous attempts to break into the Twin Cities market via two separate proposals to merge with Fairview Health Services.

With Sanford's latest merger attempt, the two organizations say they intend to invest hundreds of millions of dollars to "strengthen" North Memorial Hospital and "sustaining" its mission as a "critical safety-net provider of Level 1 trauma and emergency services." It also intends to "double the size" of the Maple Grove Hospital "to meet growing community needs."

"Today marks an important step forward as we build on and expand the care we provide across Minnesota – creating more choice for patients and connecting them to a broader network of providers, services and specialized expertise," said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health.

"By coming together as one nonprofit health care organization, with shared Midwest values and a deep commitment to the communities we serve, we will deliver more coordinated, regionally connected care – ensuring patients can access the right services, in the right place, at the right time."

It's the second major hospital merger proposal affecting the Twin Cities this year at a time hospital systems are struggling for sustainability amid a rise in uninsured patients and uncompensated care, as well as major pending cuts to Medicaid passed in President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," which go into effect next year.

Earlier this year it was announced that Minneapolis-based Allina Health is the subject of a proposed takeover bid by California-based Sutter Health.

The Sanford and North Memorial merger would require state and federal approval.

"When we first met Sanford Health, it was clear we share the same values – rooted in our communities, putting patients first and being straightforward about the realities health care faces,” said Trevor Sawallish, CEO of North Memorial Health.

"We’ve been open about the financial and regulatory pressures and the rising costs that make it harder to protect access to care on our own. Through a deliberate national search, Sanford stood out as a partner who understands our true value and shares our belief that better – not just bigger – is what matters. This partnership is about staying strong for the long term – so our patients can keep getting the care they need close to home and our teams have the support they deserve.”

The proposal brought a swift comment from SEIU Healthcare Minnesota & Iowa, the union that represents more than 1,000 workers at North Memorial.

"Hearing news of yet another proposed healthcare merger in Minnesota is worrisome for SEIU members both as staff and patients," it says.

"At a time when healthcare costs are skyrocketing for Minnesota families and frontline healthcare workers are getting squeezed by short staffing levels, this latest attempt at consolidation brings many concerns."

Michael Selle was taking a Brazilian jiu-jitsu class with his teenage daughter Saturday morning at Minnesota Top Team in Eagan when he started to experience early warning signs, including dizziness and numbness, but pushed through and finished the class, according to a GoFundMe.

As the pair left the gym, Selle attempted to drive them home, but he started to hit curbs and had to pull over. He told his daughter, McKayla, that his arm felt numb, and she knew he needed to immediately go to the nearest emergency room.

After the father and daughter arrived at Abbott Northwestern – WestHealth in Plymouth, they learned that Selle had torn a carotid artery and suffered a stroke.

"A freak accident that none of us could have anticipated," McKayla writes on the GoFundMe page. "One moment we were sharing a passion we both love, and the next, our lives changed in an instant."

A few hours later, Selle was transferred to Abbott Northwestern Hospital's Neurological ICU in Minneapolis, where he suffered a second, more severe stroke, which required a stent to be put in.

The GoFundMe is raising money for Selle's medical bills, rehabilitation, and daily needs, as he remains unable to work.

"My father is active, dedicated, and full of life. Now, he’s unable to work as he focuses on healing and rehabilitation," McKayla writes. "The medical bills are already piling up, and the costs of ongoing care and therapy are overwhelming.

"As his daughter, I want to do everything I can to support him, but we can’t do it alone."

Mayo Clinic announced Wednesday that its new system, the Radiomics-based Early Detection Model (REDMOD), enables earlier detection by identifying subtle signs of disease before tumors are visible, when the odds are much better for curative treatment.

As part of a study, REDMOD analyzed nearly 2,000 abdominal CT scans that were initially interpreted as normal, and identified signs of disease in 73% of the scans from patients who were later diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, on average of about 16 months before diagnosis.

That's nearly double the detection rate of specialists reviewing the same scans without AI assistance, according to Mayo Clinic.

Pancreatic cancer rarely causes detectable signs in its earliest stages, making it one of the deadliest cancers, with five-year survival rates below 15%.

The National Cancer Institute says more than 85% of patients receive a diagnosis after the disease has already spread.

"The greatest barrier to saving lives from pancreatic cancer has been our inability to see the disease when it is still curable," says Ajit Goenka, M.D., the study's senior author, and a Mayo Clinic radiologist and nuclear medicine specialist. "This AI can now identify the signature of cancer from a normal-appearing pancreas, and it can do so reliably over time and across diverse clinical settings." 

REDMOD is designed to analyze CT scans that have already obtained for other reasons, particularly in high-risk patients, and flag elevated risk before any visible mass appears.

The system captures faint biological changes as cancer begins to develop by measuring hundreds of quantitative imaging features that describe tissue texture and structure.

That’s according to a new report released by Public Citizen, a nonprofit progressive advocacy group founded by former presidential candidate and attorney Ralph Nader. 

Safety net hospitals provide healthcare to anyone and everyone, regardless of insurance, immigration status, or their ability to pay, and as such their budgets are typically under greater pressure than non-safety net hospitals.

And potentially ruinous financial fallout could hit in January, when the cuts to Medicaid – totaling $1 trillion over the next 10 years – included in President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill goes into effect.

"The cuts will be devastating to many low-income and disabled individuals who rely on Medicaid," the report details. "Moreover, they will have knock-on effects on hospitals that disproportionately serve these communities, deepening the financial strain already plaguing rural and safety-net hospitals and compromising their ability to deliver care, potentially leading many to close."

In all, it lists 446 hospitals across the country at "heightened risk of closing or reducing services due to Medicaid cuts," including the following seven from Minnesota:

• Hennepin Healthcare (Minneapolis) 
• Mahnomen Health Center
• Range Regional Health Services (Hibbing)
• Lakewood Health System (Staples)
• St. Gabriels Hospital (Little Falls) 
• Mayo Clinic Health System- Albert Lea (Austin)
• Lakewood Health Center (Baudette)

The financial struggles plaguing Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, the state’s largest safety-net hospital, have been well documented in recent months. 

Hennepin Healthcare is facing a $50 million deficit and projecting $1.7 billion in losses over the next decade in part due to Medicaid cuts. It has asking the Legislature to step in to prevent closing, warning that it could happen in June if something isn’t done.

Earlier this month, legislators formally proposed raising an existing county sales tax by 1%, which is currently repaying the debt that helped build Target Field, to generate an estimated $305 million annually for Hennepin Healthcare.

This week, National Nurses United put HCMC on "red alert" for potential closure, highlighting that the hospital receives around 81% of its revenue from Medicaid and Medicare, "making it especially vulnerable to the cuts that will take effect after the 2026 midterms."

The Minnesota Department of Health announced that the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey shows a 57.7% decrease of self-reported cannabis use in the past 12 months since 2013.

In 2013, just under 15% of eighth, ninth, and 11th graders reported having used cannabis, a figure that has now declined to just 6.3% last year.

Among 11th grade students, 12.7% reported using cannabis in the past 12 months, compared to 25% in 2013. The most dramatic drop is among ninth graders, falling from just under 15% in 2013 to 4.1% last year.

Marijuana was legalized for recreational use in August 2023, and Minnesota has seen the rollout of retail sales across the state over the past year.

"More students now view using cannabis once or twice a week as moderately to greatly harmful, reversing the trend seen from 2013 to 2022," MDH said in its release.

The study did find that of those who are using cannabis, around 41% of them first tried the drug at age 13 or 14, while eighth graders were more likely than ninth or 11th graders to have first tried marijuana at age 12 or younger.

"Despite positive trends, the student survey – indicates that some of our children are encountering cannabis at young ages," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham.

"We need talk to our children about cannabis before they encounter it because we know the potential harms that early use can bring to their developing brains, mental health and futures."

Stella McMahon "passed peacefully in her mom and dad’s arms" on April 3, a day before should would have turned 17 months old, according to an online fundraiser that's been established in her memory.

"She fought every day of her life. She was loved every second of it. And she will be carried, by her family and by everyone who hears her story, for the rest of time," reads the GoFundMe.

Stella was diagnosed with leukemia at just four-months-old. Complications from chemotherapy meant that she could not fight a recent adenovirus infection and would need a T-cell transfusion at a specific hospital in Cincinnati, but the procedure was not covered by insurance.

Stella's story went viral in March after her mother, Alexandria McMahon, recorded a call with the insurance company and posted it on TikTok, raking in 3 million views.

An anonymous donor, later identified as Cuban, quickly came forward and covered the costs associated with the transfusion and fully-staffed medical air transport between Minneapolis and Cincinnati.

Cuban has been a frequent critic of insurance companies in the U.S., and in recent years has launched Cost Plus Drugs, a company that sells prescription drugs at cost plus a 15% markup, cutting out the “middlemen” that he says drive up the cost of medication.

@stellasmomma_

‼️URGENT‼️ Stella needs a flight from Minneapolis, MN to Cincinnati, OH children’s hospital ASAP. Insurance has denied our pre authorization for a medical lift, claiming she is well enough to travel 12+ hours by land. She cannot even be discharged from the hospital. Her liver is overworked. We are planning an ICU stay - & need a T cell transfusion only offered at Children’s Cincinnati. I am calling on community for support. We need either a plane & pilot, or funds to get one. One day of flying - there and back. Insurance in the U.S. is a SCAM. I am terrified and exhausted. Please 🙏 share, comment, like, and see the links 🔗 in my bio 🎗️‼️ #fuckcancer #insurance #fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fypシ

♬ original sound - StellaForever🎗️

Stella had the procedure on March 23, but she landed in the pediatric ICU several days later and was eventually put on a ventilator for liver failure, as detailed in her mother's TikTok posts.

Alexandria McMahon announced earlier this week that Stella had died, saying the T-cells from the transfusion "didn’t have enough time to fix her body," following a weeklong delay as the family fought with the insurance company.

"There’s nothing anyone could say to convince me that if she received those cells on time; she’d have met the same cruel fate," Alexandria McMahon writes in a caption. "The rage I feel is indefinite, unnatural, all consuming.

"She’s gone. My daughter is gone. She was supposed to make it."

"The decision follows a federal court ruling that vacated a federal declaration attempting to restrict gender-affirming care," a hospital spokesperson said in a statement.

"Offering science- and research-based health care to transgender and gender diverse youth is part of Children’s Minnesota’s vision of being every family's essential partner in raising healthier children," the statement continued.

Children's Minnesota is now contacting patient families that were affected by the temporary pause, which began impacting some services Feb. 27.

The pause took effect amid threats from the Trump administration to withdraw federal funding from hospitals that offer certain gender health services to minors, such as puberty-suppressing medications.

A coalition of 21 states, including Minnesota, sued to block the administration from limiting certain health services after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. issued a "declaration" on Dec. 18 regarding the treatment of pediatric gender dysphoria.

In a statement last month, Attorney General Keith Ellison said states are responsible for licensing and regulating medical providers and professional associations used evidence-based research to establish care standards.

"The federal government should not be part of that equation, and there’s no room in Minnesota doctor’s offices for Donald Trump, RFK Jr., and other politicians that want to dictate what healthcare we can and cannot receive," Ellison said.

He continued: "I am pleased to have prevailed in my lawsuit to protect essential healthcare services that allows transgender individuals to be themselves and live with the same dignity that we all deserve."

The American Medical Association (AMA) says gender-affirming care "has been linked to dramatically reduced rates of suicide attempts, decreased rates of depression and anxiety, decreased substance use" and other key benefits.

The AMA has strongly opposed bans on certain types of gender-affirming care, writing in 2021 that it's "inappropriate and harmful for any state to legislatively dictate that certain transition-related services are never appropriate and limit the range of options physicians and families may consider when making decisions for pediatric patients.”

Mackenzie Tannhauser suffered the heart attack and a spinal stroke in early March, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. The news meant that Tannhauser could not get married to her now husband, Eric Pfaff, in the April 24 ceremony they had planned.

Instead, the couple was married in a hospital room ceremony attended by a small group of friends and family on March 13. 

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Pfaff has created a GoFundMe to help the couple pay for medical bills, rehab costs, relocation to accessible housing and transportation. 

According to a Friday update on the GoFundMe, a donor for Tannhauser’s heart transplant had been identified, with surgery taking place the same day. 

On Saturday, Pfaff wrote that the surgery was a success and that doctors were "cautiously optimistic" about Tannhauser’s condition. 

“She is in good spirits and feels wonderful about the surgery, and is resting, breathing on her own with no assistance,” Pfaff wrote.

Pfaff previously revealed that his wife received her first heart transplant at the age of 17, and for the past 15 years had “lived life to the fullest."

In a TikTok video posted on March 22 and viewed more than 300,000 times, Alexandria McMahon recorded a call with an insurance company informing her that a T cell transfusion for her daughter, Stella, would not be covered. 

Stella was diagnosed with leukemia at four months old. Complications from chemotherapy meant that she could not fight a recent adenovirus infection and would need the transfusion. 

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@stellasmomma_

‼️URGENT‼️ Stella needs a flight from Minneapolis, MN to Cincinnati, OH children’s hospital ASAP. Insurance has denied our pre authorization for a medical lift, claiming she is well enough to travel 12+ hours by land. She cannot even be discharged from the hospital. Her liver is overworked. We are planning an ICU stay - & need a T cell transfusion only offered at Children’s Cincinnati. I am calling on community for support. We need either a plane & pilot, or funds to get one. One day of flying - there and back. Insurance in the U.S. is a SCAM. I am terrified and exhausted. Please 🙏 share, comment, like, and see the links 🔗 in my bio 🎗️‼️ #fuckcancer #insurance #fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fypシ

♬ original sound - StellaForever🎗️

On TikTok, McMahon stated that pilots and Children's Minnesota nurses had volunteered to help transport Stella for the procedure at a hospital in Cincinnati, which KARE 11 reported is the only hospital that offers adenovirus-specific directed T cells.

However, because of Stella’s condition, she required a fully staffed medical air transport. 

A day after posting the call with the insurance company, which racked up 3 million views on TikTok McMahon posted an update that a donor had reached out and taken care of the costs associated with the procedure and transportation. 

Stella received the transfusion on Monday before flying back to Minnesota. 

McMahon later revealed that the donor to be Cuban.

“…Mark - you are the good in my world right now. I’m honored, and in shock at the generosity and empathy given to my family,” McMahon wrote on TikTok.

Cuban has been a frequent critic of insurance companies in the U.S., and in recent years has launched Cost Plus Drugs, a company that sells prescription drugs at cost plus a 15% markup, cutting out the "middlemen" that he says drives up the cost of medication in the country.

Eric Pfaff and Mackenzie Tannhauser, of Minneapolis, were married in a hospital room on March 13, in a ceremony attended by a small group of friends and family. 

Tannhauser had suffered from double silent heart attack and a spinal stroke in early March, leaving her paralyzed from the waist down. The news meant the couple could not get married in a ceremony they had planned for April 24.

A GoFundMe has since been created to help the couple pay for medical bills, rehab costs, relocation to accessible housing and transportation. 

"On March 13th, instead of walking down the aisle, we found ourselves in a hospital room, holding hands and pledging our love to each other in a profound and beautiful ceremony," Pfaff wrote in the GoFundMe. 

"Surrounded by hope and the support of those closest to us, we promised to face every challenge together."

Pfaff explains that his wife received a heart transplant at the age of 17, and for the past 15 years "lived life to the fullest." She will now need a second heart transplant as she recovers, as well as undergoing rehabilitation and therapy.

"Mackenzie is funny, full of life, and passionate about everything she does," he writes. "She is always ready with a smile or a joke, and her love for her friends, family, and her two cats, Dr. Breakfast and Sansa, is boundless. Her sense of humor and love of puns make every day brighter.

In a Friday update, Pfaff says that Tannhauser is "stable and strong" as she awaits a new heart, and she is a "priority" for a transplant.

"Every donation, share, and kind word has meant the world to us during this time, and as we plan for Mackenzie's road to recovery, and independence."

Hungry Like the Wolf brings Minnesota labor history and sharp comedy together in a fast-moving new production at History Theatre. Written by Sandra Struthers and directed by Laura Leffler, the show draws from the groundbreaking story of the Willmar Eight — the women who led the first American bank strike in the United States right here in Minnesota — while weaving in themes of gender equity, political history, and pop culture.

Blending humor, social commentary, and unmistakable ’80s energy, the production also folds in references to McCarthyism, director Lee Grant, and an unmistakable obsession with Duran Duran. The result is a lively, unconventional theatrical experience that balances history with irreverence and heart.

Tickets start at $25, with performances running through April 12 and select dates offering accessible services through History Theatre.

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Breaking Barriers & Building Comfort: Celebrating Megan During Women in Trades Month

March is Women in Trades Month—a time to recognize the hardworking, skilled women who are making an impact in industries traditionally dominated by men. At Logan Companies, we’re proud to spotlight one of our own: Megan, one of the few female HVAC technicians in the field, and a dedicated professional serving Minnesota homeowner with expertise, heart, and grit.

A Family Tradition Turned Personal Mission

For Megan, a career in HVAC wasn’t by chance—it was a path that was shaped by her upbringing.

“HVAC runs in the family,” she shares. “Growing up, I watched my father work in the trade, and I saw the pride they took in solving problems and helping people stay comfortable and safe in their homes. That really stuck with me.”

That early exposure shaped more than just career curiosity—it shaped her values. Today, Megan carries on that tradition while building something of her own. What she loves most about the job is simple: no two days are ever the same.

“Every day is different. Each job brings a new challenge. I enjoy working with my hands, troubleshooting systems, and knowing that what I do makes a real difference for families and businesses.”

It’s that mindset—problem-solver, protector, professional—that defines her work.

Built for Minnesota’s Toughest Seasons

Being an HVAC technician in Minnesota isn’t for the faint of heart.

With subzero winters and hot, humid summers, our state pushes heating, cooling, and plumbing systems to their limits. Megan sees it all.

“In the winter, we deal with frozen pipes, furnace breakdowns, and heating inefficiencies. In the summer, it’s all about keeping A/C units running properly and efficiently. There’s never really a slow season—we have to be ready year-round.”

Minnesota’s climate doesn’t just demand quick fixes—it demands preparation. Megan is a strong advocate for preventative maintenance, helping customers stay ahead of problems before extreme weather makes them worse.

“A little upkeep now can save homeowners from major issues later.”

More Than a Technician—A Trusted Neighbor

One of Megan’s most memorable service calls came during a brutal cold snap when temperatures dropped well below zero.

She was dispatched to help an elderly woman whose furnace had completely failed. When Megan arrived, the home was already dangerously cold.

“She didn’t have another heat source. I diagnosed a failed ignitor and, thankfully, had the part on my truck.”

But she didn’t just replace the part and leave.

“I stayed to make sure everything was running safely and helped her set her thermostat properly so she’d stay comfortable. It’s not just about fixing equipment—it’s about making sure people are safe and cared for, especially when they need it most.”

That’s the Logan Companies difference in action.

Advice for Homeowners: Don’t Wait

When asked for one piece of advice for Minnesota homeowners, Megan doesn’t hesitate:

“Don’t wait until something breaks.”

She recommends:

• Changing HVAC filters every 1–3 months
• Scheduling professional service before each heating and cooling season
• Watching for slow drains or small plumbing leaks before they become costly repairs

“Regular maintenance goes a long way. A little attention now can prevent big, expensive problems later.”

It’s practical advice from someone who’s seen what happens when small issues are ignored.

A Woman Thriving in the Trades

As one of the few female HVAC technicians in the industry, Megan has faced challenges—but she’s never let them define her.

“Early on, I had to prove myself a bit more. But once customers and coworkers saw that I knew my stuff and took pride in my work, the respect followed.”

Her perspective is clear: skill, work ethic, and professionalism matter most.

“This industry values what you bring to the table. My advice to other women considering this path? Don’t be intimidated. If you’re passionate and willing to learn, there’s absolutely a place for you here.”

Women in Trades Month is about visibility—and Megan’s story is proof that the trades offer real opportunity, stability, and fulfillment for women ready to step forward.

Rooted in Community

When she’s not serving customers, Megan is spending time with her kids—playing outside, cheering at sporting events, or simply relaxing together. She’s also an avid runner.

“Running helps me clear my mind, stay active, and push myself. That focus definitely carries over into how I approach my work.  If I could tell Minnesota homeowners one thing about Logan Companies, it’s that we truly care about doing the job right and treating people with respect. We’re not just there to fix a problem—we’re there to build trust.”

As a local, customer-focused company, that personal connection matters.

“We’re helping our neighbors. It’s about doing things the right way and making sure customers feel taken care of.”

Celebrating Women in Trades Month

This March, we celebrate Megan—and all the women making a difference in skilled trades across Minnesota.

At Logan Companies, we’re proud to support technicians who bring skill, integrity, and heart to every service call. Megan represents the future of the trades: knowledgeable, hardworking, community-focused, and committed to excellence.

If you see Megan on your next service call, know you’re in capable hands.

And if you’re a young woman considering a career in the trades? Let her story be your sign.

LeBrun recently testified before legislators at the Minnesota State Capitol in support of the so-called “Grandparents’ Happy Hour” bill, which would let nursing homes and assisted living facilities serve alcohol to residents and their guests during activities and events. State law currently prohibits it. 

“Just because we’re older and live in assisted living doesn’t mean that we should have fewer freedoms than anyone else,” said LeBrun in her testimony. 

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The issue came to light after Amira Choice went looking to host a reception for a recently completed renovation, according to Minnesota House Session Daily. Leadership learned they weren’t able to serve alcohol without a permit. 

Amira Choice executive director Abby Dahl also testified before legislators, saying they have safeguards in place to "monitor medication interactions, document resident choices and supervise residents with impaired judgment."

The bill was ultimately added as an amendment to the omnibus liquor policy bill, which has now been sent to the House Floor. 

If approved, nursing homes and assisted living facilities would still have to abide by local and state liquor laws. Seniors would only be allowed to consume alcohol at activities or events that are resident-focused.

The idea came to Minnetonka native Luke Wachowiak while he was undergoing an IV drip for dermatomyositis, a chronic autoimmune disease. His goal was to provide patients receiving intravenous treatment a way to connect with each other, per a news release from the City of Edina. 

He later approached his Edina High School classmate Logan Bracken, who had learned how to code during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the idea, and the TogetherIV app was born, after getting feedback from doctors, nurses, and fellow patients. 

The app connects people with others getting IV treatment at the same time. Users are able to hang out, play games, chat, and get support in a welcoming online space, according to their website.

Wachowiak made it a point to incorporate some solo games, specifically designed to "combat the anxiety of the IV needle poke." The app is also designed to be usable with only one hand. 

Wachowiak and Bracken recently received Edina’s Hometown Hero Award, which is given to citizens who pride themselves on "making the city a great place for living, learning, raising families and doing business."

The health systems announced the intent to combine into a $26 billion nonprofit system Tuesday.

“Our two storied organizations share a common vision for the future and a proud history of caring for people and communities when they need us most,” Tim Welsh, chair of the Allina Health Board of Directors, said in a statement.

Welsh continued: “By coming together, we can build upon that legacy, combining our expertise to provide preventive and life-saving care, build nation-leading clinical programs, advance discovery through research and clinical trials, and strengthen access and affordability to better serve our communities now and into the future.”

The combined health system will have around 88,000 employees, including 18,000 physicians, across 39 hospitals and more than 400 primary and specialty care sites.

Major investment planned in Minnesota and western Wisconsin

The merger will bring over five million patients under one health system spanning northern and central California, Minnesota and Wisconsin, with Allina Health becoming Sutter's Upper Midwest division.

According to Sutter Health, more than $2 billion will be invested in Minnesota and western Wisconsin to improve patient access and outcomes, recruit doctors, advance clinical research and more.

Those investments will go towards new ambulatory care centers, expanding specialty care centers, clinical trials and more.

"Building on our complementary strengths and combined expertise, we will build a healthcare innovation engine that accelerates how ideas move from development and design into improving the health of patients and communities," said Sutter Health President and CEO Warner Thomas.

Will Allina Health maintain its name and leadership?

Allina Health will become the Upper Midwest Division of Sutter Health, but officials say Allina Health will maintain its name, brand and regional headquarters in Minneapolis.

According to a news release, Allina Health President and CEO Lisa Shannon will remain in her role.

“As one nationally leading, locally committed nonprofit health system, we will be uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of innovation, building upon the expertise of our physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses and team members to chart a new path for healthcare," Shannon stated.

Allina Health currently has more than 28,000 employees and operates the largest nonprofit hospital in the Twin Cities area, Minneapolis' Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

AI will be involved

According to Sutter Health, northern California's position at the forefront of AI and platform development and Minnesota's position as a med-tech and engineering hub give the combined health system momentum to be a national leader in technological advancement.

Sutter claims that expanding the use of AI, which critics say poses an existential threat to millions of American workers, will reduce administrative burdens and helps "caregivers spend more time with patients and less time on paperwork."

What's next for the merger?

Sutter Health and Allina Health will complete due diligence and finalize the terms and conditions of the deal over the coming weeks and months before entering into a definitive agreement.

The closing, pending regulatory approval, is anticipated by the end of 2026.

Unions release joint statement

SEIU Healthcare MN & IA and Doctors Council-SEIU, the unions representing thousands of Allina Health workers, released the following joint statement Tuesday.

“Like everyone else, our Unions just learned this news. In Minnesota, we are proud of our world-class healthcare systems but know that increased consolidation and out-of-touch, overpaid executives have too often moved us backward in recent years," the unions shared.

The statement continues: "We obviously have concerns about what this means for employees, our contracts and our pension plans. A key issue is ensuring that charitable assets built up by Minnesotans are not diverted out of state or to a small handful of executives for personal enrichment. We call on Attorney General Keith Ellison to provide all appropriate inquiry and oversight into this proposed merger and to ensure the interests of Minnesota’s workers and patients are protected."

Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday that he's tapped Malcolm to serve as Senior Advisor on Hospitals and Health Systems, a role designed to develop recommendations for the governor's office on what actions the state can take to support hospitals amid deepening financial challenges.

“Jan Malcolm is one of the most respected and experienced health leaders Minnesota has ever had, and I’m grateful she has agreed to lend her expertise to our state’s health system yet again,” Walz said in a news release.

Malcolm, who served as Minnesota's health commissioner from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2018 to 2023, became a high-profile state leader during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which she led the state's response to the crisis and addressed Minnesotans through daily updates.

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“Her leadership will help us bring providers, policymakers, and communities together to confront the challenges facing our hospitals head-on, strengthen our health care system, and ensure every Minnesotan can get the care they need when they need it," he continued.

According to the announcement, Malcolm will work with hospital and health system leaders to help address challenges such as rising costs, workforce shortages, and federal Medicaid changes that are reducing funding for HCMC and other hospitals serving large numbers of low-income and uninsured patients.

Cuts to Medicaid reimbursements have already forced Hennepin Healthcare officials to lay off about 100 employees, eliminate 100 hospital beds and discontinue five programs, but at least another $100 million in reductions are needed, KARE 11 reports, while scything Medicaid cuts included in the "One Big Beautiful Bill" are set to go into effect in 2027.

Walz said facilities like HCMC – a safety net hospital that operates one of Minnesota's largest emergency departments, and is one of only a few hospitals equipped to handle the most severe trauma emergencies – are "simply too important to lose."

“A closure would be devastating for patients, the community, and health systems across the region that rely on Hennepin Healthcare’s trauma care and specialty services," Walz stated. "We will be working with the Legislature and local partners to find a path forward to preserve this critical statewide asset.” 

Proposals addressing HCMC's financial crisis are expected to be introduced this legislative session.

A university spokesperson confirmed the closure to Bring Me The News, saying that other Boynton Health programs will remain fully operational and unaffected by the shuttering. 

"We have made the decision to close the Boynton Dental Clinic and transition all services to the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Dental Clinics and Faculty Dental Clinic," the statement reads. 

"This will provide patients with expanded services and access to a multi-specialty team – ranging from expert faculty to the next generation of dental innovators – while also maintaining a convenient on-campus location."

Bring Me The News has learned one of the primary reasons behind the closure is financial, with the clinic reportedly running at a deficit for a number of years. The facility was also in need of a number of immediate equipment upgrades.

On Wednesday morning, AFSCME 3800, the healthcare worker’s union, held a rally and press conference outside the Church Street location, demanding the clinic re-open. 

“These AFSCME healthcare workers have deep concerns about the unexpected closure, including the cause of closure, nearby clinic capacity, continuity of care, access to dental care for graduate students, and patient record management,” the union wrote in a news release, adding employees learned of the permanent closure on March 5. 

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It also raised concerns about emergency care, maintaining the clinic often treats student patients who are experiencing dental emergencies. 

“Without access to Boynton, these patients may be forced to endure prolonged pain or seek care outside the university system, often at significant financial cost,” the release details. “This not only creates a financial burden but may also affect students’ ability to focus on their studies and their overall quality of life.” 

According to its website, Boynton Health provides health care to students, faculty and staff of the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities, covering everything from mental health services to eye care.

The Minnesota Department of Health's latest Minnesota Health Access Survey revealed 5.8% of Minnesotans went without health insurance in 2025, a spike from a historic low of 3.8% in 2023. MDH says this corresponds to an additional 116,000 without insurance.

A large part of that was driven by a decrease in public plan coverage, which fell from 44.1% to 39.6%, while the percentage of children uninsured rose from 2.7% to 4.6%.

But the decrease in coverage seen last year is likely to be higher this year, with an MDH spokesperson telling KSTP there is "concerning" trend line regarding how many Minnesotans are uninsured in 2026, which comes after Congress voted against extending Biden-era subsidies that lower the cost of insurance for low-income households.

Health insurance premiums for plans bought on Minnesota’s health insurance exchange MnSURE or bought directly from insurers are set to rise on average by 21.5% for individual plans and 14.2% for small group plans in 2026.

And a further cliff awaits in 2027, when cuts to Medicaid included in the "One Big Beautiful Bill" of 2025 go into effect.

The MDH data finds that members of Minnesota's Hispanic community are most likely to be uninsured, with the rate at 20%, which is almost double the 11.4% rate two years ago.

The uninsured rate in urban areas rose from 3.4% to 5.7%, and in rural areas it went from 4.3% to 6.7%.

Over 12% of Minnesotans who responded to the survey expressed concern about losing their coverage, an increase from 7.7% in two years ago, and the concern over rising costs and expensive coverage rose to 28.8% last year, compared to 17.5% in 2023.

"The sharp increase in uninsured Minnesotans over the past two years is deeply disturbing, as are the long-standing disparities in the uninsured rate by race/ethnicity and income that continue to persist," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham.

"For most people, health care is unaffordable without insurance. This results in delayed or deferred care and worse health outcomes, more medical debt for families, and increased rates of uncompensated care for health systems."

That's according to Hennepin County Commissioner Angela Conley, who on Wednesday briefed lawmakers at the Senate’s Health and Human Services Committee about the state of the safety-net hospital in downtown Minneapolis, which is operated by Hennepin Healthcare. 

Conley noted the $50 million budget gap faced by Hennepin Healthcare, which she said needs to be covered by the end of March.

“Today, the hospital finds itself with a need to immediately stabilize its operations,” Conley said. 

To account for his gap, Hennepin Healthcare has already announced plans to remove 100 in-patient beds from HCMC. The hospital will also delay more than $24 million in capital improvements, freeze contributions to retirement funds for some workers, and suspend about $1.2 million in travel expenses.

Despite the immediate challenges, Conley said upcoming cuts to Medicaid programs by the Trump administration — set to go into effect at the start of 2027 — are an even bigger budget threat for the hospital. 

Hennepin Healthcare projects it will lose $1.7 billion in Medicaid revenue in the next ten years. The hospital has also seen an increase in uncompensated care, up to $104 million in 2024 compared to $40 million in 2020, according to information cited at the hearing. 

“Hennepin County cannot afford to absorb those costs, nor can we increase our property tax levy enough to even cover those costs. Without revenue to replace the ongoing losses, the hospital will not remain open,” Conley said. 

Conely said Hennepin County is currently acting as a “temporary financial backstop” for Hennepin Healthcare. 

Hennepin County Commissioner Jeffery Lunde told MPR News that the county is looking to repurpose sales tax revenue currently being used to pay off the bonds for Target Field’s construction debt. 

Once the debt is settled in 2027, the county would need legislative approval to use the revenue to cover healthcare costs.

"This action was taken to protect guests and staff while the hotel completes required corrective measures before reopening," the representative says.

"The county has provided the hotel owner with a list of corrective actions, which include improving cleaning and sanitation, securing entrances and exits, maintaining accurate guest records and maintaining staff training records. These steps must be completed before licenses can be reinstated."

The closure follows discussion of the situation during a Brooklyn Center City Council meeting on Feb. 9, as noted by CCX Media. 

During that meeting, Brooklyn Center Fire Chief Todd Berg shared a list of issues found during inspections such as fire doors that wouldn't shut completely, six or seven rooms that didn't have heat, "dried vomit and blood splatter... on the walls in the stairwell," clothes scattered around the property, missing ceiling tiles, and that none of the exterior doors locked.

During those visits, Berg said multiple unregistered guests were removed from the property. He noted that from Jan. 9 to Feb. 6, area police responded to 102 calls that involved the property, "the highest four-week total since at least 2015."

He added during the meeting that the hotel has done work in recent weeks to clean up, but "there is a high concern by city staff that we will wind up being right back where it was a few weeks ago after these annual inspections are complete."

Representatives for Wyndham did not respond to a request for comment.

"While suspensions are rare, they are necessary when conditions pose serious risks to public health," the Hennepin County Public Health Department representative says. "The department remains committed to working with all license holders to meet safety standards and will re‑inspect the property once corrective actions are complete."

Related: Scenes from Minnesota's North Shore, where storm dumped over 3 feet of snow

According to GoFundMe organizers, Jostin Tubon is a student at St. Louis Park High School and was hospitalized the day after Christmas after coming down with blastomycosis, a severe respiratory infection. He was eventually put on life support.

Blastomycosis is contracted when you breathe in fungus which lives in dirt or rotting wood, according to Cleveland Clinic. It can cause flu-like symptoms, and can spread from the lungs to other parts of the body.

"He spent a full month on ECMO, a temporary life support machine, to allow his lungs to heal,” the page’s creator writes. “The infection in his lungs has improved greatly, however, doctors still anticipate he will need at least a year of treatment, including intensive physical and occupational therapy, before he recovers.”

The fundraiser was launched to help with medical bills and living expenses. 

“Jostin's mother lost her job because she could not leave her son's side in the hospital, and the only other member of his immediate family who was earning income was recently detained by ICE,” the page details.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the page has raised nearly $6,000 of its $18,000 goal. 

On Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Public Health announced it had been informed that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had canceled about $42 million in federal public health funding to the state effective immediately.

Most of the terminated funding came from the Public Health Infrastructure Grant. The five-year grant was awarded to 107 health departments across all 50 states beginning in 2022.

Only Minnesota, Colorado, Illinois and California were targeted for cuts, which totaled $600 million across the four states, according to MDH.

MDH went on to call the move part of an "ongoing campaign of retribution against Minnesota" by the federal government.

"There is simply no need or valid justification for these targeted cuts that put Minnesotans at risk. These cuts by the federal government, and other cuts to public health funding over the past year, highlight a total disregard for promoting health and wellbeing. The ongoing cuts create an environment of chaos and confusion for communities," Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham said in a statement. 

Following the CDC cuts, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison’s office filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration along with attorneys general from the three other states impacted.

On Thursday, Ellison’s office announced that a judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the funding cuts for 14 days. While the cuts are delayed, Ellison said his office will look to extend the order until a decision on the lawsuit is made.

The grant is meant to fund MDH’s public health emergency planning, data system improvements, various staffing positions and other initiatives.

The PHIG fully or partially funds 57 staff positions meant to handle public health outreach in rural Minnesota, disease tracking and emergency preparedness training and planning.

The CDC has also targeted grants funding HIV and STD surveillance and prevention programs, according to MDH. 

Moving forward, the safety-net hospital in downtown Minneapolis will have a maximum of 390 beds available, a reduction that comes as the system acts quickly to free up at least $50 million in its budget by the end of March.

Hennepin Healthcare also announced this week that it's delaying more than $24 million in capital improvements, freezing contributions to retirement funds for some workers, and suspending about $1.2 million in travel expenses.

"Hennepin Healthcare continues to make difficult but necessary decisions to address significant financial challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of our health system," the system said in a statement provided to Bring Me The News.

"These actions are focused on sustaining critical patient services and ensuring we continue to prioritize care."

Last month, Hennepin Healthcare cut 100 jobs at HCMC, as well as several medical programs, including chiropractic, acupuncture and sleep care.

Those measures followed the system's announcement earlier in January that it's "now fully in crisis mode and must act decisively" in the face of a "dire fiscal position," which will exacerbated even further when the Trump administration's cuts to Medicaid programs go into effect at the start of 2027.

Hennepin Healthcare co-administrators Dr. Kevin Croston and David Hough warned of "difficult decisions" that needed to be made in the coming weeks to "keep the hospital open and stabilize operations," foreshadowing the cuts to come and more that could follow, though they've indicated a commitment to maintaining HCMC's marquee services.

The system must identify an additional $100 million in cost savings by the fall, according to its leaders.

Employees were asked to submit cost-saving ideas, resulting in nearly 800 submissions, which are now under review.

"We deeply value our employees and the community we serve, and we will continue to communicate transparently as we work toward long-term stability," Hennepin Healthcare said in its statement.

A union steward with AFSCME 2474 tells the Minnesota Star Tribune that "further reductions to staffing or patient services will directly harm Minnesotans’ access to care."

The Hennepin County Board voted in August to retake control of HCMC and the health care system's other clinics after significant budget challenges in recent years.

"The hospital is a statewide asset, but yet all the expenses are borne by Hennepin County property tax owners, and we need to rechange that mix," county commissioner Jeffrey Lunde said in an interview with KSTP.

County officials plan to again ask the Legislature for approval to repurpose state sales tax revenue from Target Field to help fund HCMC operations.

Lunde believes it's the only solution that can provide the cash infusion that Hennepin Healthcare needs to prevent the hospital's closure, Twin Cities Business reports.

“If (lawmakers) say, ‘We’ll get to it next year’—there is no next year,” he said.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) says there are currently 13 confirmed cases of TMVII, and 27 suspected cases, all within the Twin Cities metro area. The disease was first detected in the state in July 2025.

TMVII is a fungal skin infection that can cause ringworm. It's primarily spread through sexual contact, namely among men who have sex with men, and can also be spread on shared surfaces, like bed linens and razors. 

The infection was first identified in the U.S. by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2024.

“The first cases of TMVII in Minnesota were identified by astute clinicians who proactively notified the health department and requested confirmatory testing,” an MDH spokesperson tells Bring Me The News. “In response to several individuals seeking care and providing information on other individuals that may also have been infected, MDH established an enhanced surveillance system to identify cases in Minnesota.”

MDH believes the overall risk to the public is low, but those who use anonymous dating apps, people with a history of previous sexually-transmitted infections, and men who have sex with men may be at a higher risk of contracting the disease.

A TMVII infection can cause itchy, painful ringworm rashes on the face, genitals, buttocks, trunk, arms, and legs. It is often confused with other skin infections, like eczema and psoriasis. Some cases can lead to scarring and more serious infractions that need to be treated with antibiotics, per MDH.

The state has launched an informational website for those looking to learn more about the infection and how to prevent it. 

If you are concerned that you may have contracted TMVII, you are advised to visit an STI clinic for evaluation and treatment.

California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota are reportedly set to lose funding administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for a variety of public health programs and grants, including grants to partner organizations that focus on a specific demographic such as Black women and LGBTQ youth and adults.

"CDC has previously invested substantially in ideologically-laden concepts like health equity – mainly on identifying and documenting worse health outcomes for minority populations," the CDC priorities section on the agency's website reads. "This has not translated into measurable improved health for minority populations, and in many cases has undermined core American values." 

According to the Times, a list of the planned cuts, which total roughly $600 million, were shared with congressional committees Monday and some cuts are set to be finalized this week. 

“These grants are being terminated because they do not reflect agency priorities,” a spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services told the Times. 

Around two dozen of the grants set to be terminated reportedly support the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, such as H.I.V.

The impact in Minnesota is not yet clear, and the Times reports that the majority of the cuts will impact unspent public health dollars in California, but the move comes at a time when health officials face soaring measles cases in the U.S. and other public health threats. 

The move also raises questions about further rescinding funds already appropriated by Congress. 

It's the latest in a line of instances where the Trump administration has targeted Democrat-run states including Minnesota for federal funding cuts, which Gov. Tim Walz has described as a campaign of retribution against the state.

The pediatric health care system announced Tuesday that it will temporarily stop prescribing puberty blockers and hormones to patients under the age of 18, citing "an increase in federal actions directed at health systems like ours that provide this care."

"These actions jeopardize the stability of Minnesota’s only comprehensive pediatric health care system, and they threaten our clinicians’ ability to practice medicine now and in the future," Children's Minnesota says in a statement on its website.

The pause will take effect on Feb. 27, "unless conditions change."

Children's Minnesota will continue to offer other gender health services to young patients, including supportive care, mental health services and guidance regarding medical and non-medical treatment options.

"Despite this difficult decision, Children’s Minnesota remains committed to advocating for the patients and families and stand firmly behind the fact that gender affirming care is evidence-based and lifesaving for transgender and gender diverse youth," the system says.

Minnesota is one of 20 states involved in a lawsuit challenging a new series U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposals aiming to "end the practice of sex-rejecting procedures on children," including puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgeries.

One strategy of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to stop what he calls "unsafe, irreversible practices" is to withhold Medicare and Medicaid funding from hospitals that offer such care to transgender kids and teens, like Children's Minnesota.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and his counterparts in other states argue that Kennedy's proposals violate federal law by abruptly changing medical standards and undermine states' authority to regulate medicine.

"I’ve said it before and I’ll said it again: Gender-affirming care is healthcare, period," Ellison said in a statement. "It is evidence-based, backed by the American Medical Association, and helps transgender individuals live their lives with the dignity we all deserve. Gender-affirming care saves lives."

OutFront Minnesota, the state's largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, issued a statement Tuesday saying it understands the "complicated decision" that Children's Minnesota had to make, calling it "the most targeted provider" in the state.

"This is in response to a series of new rules and threats by the federal government that could disrupt all federally funded hospital services if this care is administered, putting our hospital systems at grave risk," the nonprofit says.

"Political attempts to ban best practice health care are not new. This latest political assault mirrors past efforts to carve off reproductive care from mainstream medicine. No matter the tactics, we know that our communities will continue to stand up for the rights to make choices about our bodies, lives, and futures."

In a recent letter to staff, the Minneapolis-based health care system that includes HCMC says it's "now fully in crisis mode and must act decisively" in the face of a "dire fiscal position."

This position will exacerbated even further when the Trump administration's cuts to Medicaid programs go into effect at the start of 2027.

Hennepin Healthcare co-administrators Dr. Kevin Croston and David Hough warned of "difficult decisions" that will need to be made over the next few weeks to "keep the hospital open and stabilize operations."

That will likely include job cuts and reductions in health care services, but hospital leaders are committed to maintaining HCMC's marquee services, including the trauma program and the burn unit, the Minnesota Star Tribune reports.

"Hennepin Healthcare System is going to have to be a different version of itself," Croston told the newspaper. “I can’t tell you what that’s going to be, but it’s going to be smaller and leaner.”

The Hennepin County Board voted in August to retake control of the health care system, its safety-net hospital in downtown Minneapolis, and other clinics after significant budget challenges in recent years.

Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Lunde said in an interview with KSTP that the board wants to use "scalpel, not an axe" when making cuts.

Earlier this month, Hennepin Healthcare's cash position fell below zero, so the system used of a county line of credit to meet payroll.

"Waiting for the county to 'backstop' the hospital is no longer an option; they will do what they can, but the ability to carry us is limited due to their own challenging financial position," Croston and Hough wrote in their Jan. 16 letter to employees.

The health care system provided this statement to Bring Me The News on Tuesday: "To correct the organization’s dire fiscal position, difficult but necessary decisions must be made to keep the hospital open and stabilize operations.

"Our mission and vision to deliver excellent patient care and commitment to serving the healthcare needs of our community have not changed."

Related: Homeland Security subpoenas Hennepin Healthcare employee information

Superfoods, Inc. agreed Wednesday to a voluntary recall of its Live It Up-brand Super Greens powder at the center of a multistate outbreak involving 45 salmonella cases in 21 states, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

Three cases of the same salmonella strain have been identified in Minnesota since November. All three adults who fell ill reported using dietary supplements, with two specifically naming Live It Up's Super Greens powder.

Effected products have expiration dates between August 2026 and January 2028. Health officials recommend throwing out or returning recalled Super Greens powder, including original or wild berry flavors.

Live It Up products are sold nationwide, mostly online but may be found in some stores, which are also urged to dispose of recalled Super Greens powder.

Symptoms of salmonella infection, a common bacterial disease affecting the intestinal tract, include diarrhea, fever and stomach or abdominal cramps, which tend to start within 12 to 96 hours after exposure. Infections typically clear up without treatment in five to seven days.

About 1,000 salmonella cases are reported in Minnesota annually.

The Department of Health has more information on salmonella here.

The move follows the CDC’s decision to overhaul its vaccine guidance, announcing earlier this week, reducing the number of recommended childhood vaccines from 18 to 11.

The CDC now recommends all children are vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), Pneumococcal conjugate, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, human papillomavirus (HPV), and varicella (chickenpox).

The agency now says parents should consult with their pediatricians regarding rotavirus, Covid-19, and flu shots, and recommends RSV vaccines only for high-risk groups. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and meningococcal disease vaccines are only recommended for high-risk groups.

The new guidelines are a part of sweeping changes to health recommendations across all sectors spearheaded by longtime vaccine skeptic Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy, Jr.

In an interview with CBS News, Kennedy Jr insisted the agency is not taking vaccines away from anybody, but later conceded there is an added step to getting kids vaccinated for the flu, which now requires consultation with a doctor first.

When asked whether that means fewer people will get the flu shot, Kennedy said "that may be, and maybe that's a better thing."

This comes amid an ongoing surge in influenza across the U.S., which the CDC says has sickened an estimated 11 million Americans this season, with 120,000 people hospitalized and 5,000 deaths.

“This change at the federal level does not reflect the best available science. Medical association immunization schedules are evidence-based, reflect current clinical practice and are developed through established professional review processes,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham in a written statement.

“Aligning our recommendations with professional medical associations helps provide clarity and stability for families and providers by using a proven set of recommendations that doctors, and other clinicians, already know and trust.”

When it comes to childhood and adult vaccine recommendations, MDH will follow the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for vaccination during pregnancy.

The departure from federal guidelines will “help save lives and prevent infectious diseases," according to MDH.

State health officials in Wisconsin recently made a similar move, rejecting the CDC’s guidance and following professional medical association’s advice instead. 

In a statement after the new vaccine guidelines were issued, Dr. Sean O’Leary, chair of the infectious disease committee at the American Academy of Pediatrics, said: "Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly clear that we can no longer trust the leadership of our federal government for credible information about vaccines, and that’s a tragedy that will cause needless suffering."

Gold Star Distribution's 44-page list of recalled products includes a wide range of items, with popular medicines, such as Tylenol and NyQuil, and candies, such as Sour Patch Kids, on the list. 

Officials say the products handled by the distributor might be contaminated with salmonella or other serious illness-causing organisms and customers and retailers should "destroy the products as soon as possible." 

"Products should not be shipped back to Gold Star under any circumstances," the FDA's website says. "Gold Star will provide refunds upon request." 

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, which impacts over 50 stores across three states. 

According to the FDA, the recalled products were distributed to some or all of the following Minnesota stores: 

• African Halal Deli, Minneapolis 
• Afrik Store, Minneapolis
• Ainu Shams Halal Food, Minneapolis 
• Ashama Grocery, St. Paul 
• Baraka Grocery, Rochester
• Brothers Imports, Minneapolis 
• Caspian Bistro Restaurant, Minneapoils
• Central Market, Minneapolis
• Cliff Halal Market, Burnsville 
• Clinton Halal Market, Minneapolis 
• Desi Brothers, Bloomington 
• Durdur Market, Minneapolis 
• Elliot Market Minneapolis 
• EP Mart, Eden Prairie 
• Ethio Market, St. Paul
• EZ Stop Food Market, Brooklyn Park 
• Friendly Grocery & Deli, St. Paul 
• Ghaley Groceries Mart, St. Paul 
• Goinkh Trading, St. Paul 
• Halal Foods, Burnsville 
• Halal Mini Market, Minneapolis 
• Jerusalem Market, Columbia Heights
• Jimmy's Foods, Minneapolis 
• Kalis Adult Daycare, Minneapolis 
• Kimis Grocery Store, Rochester
• Kismayo Discount Store, St. Paul 
• Kismayo Halal, Apple Valley 
• La Picante Market, New Hope
• Lake Street Market, Minneapolis 
• McKnight Shell Gas, St. Paul
• Midwest Market, Minneapolis 
• Milton Halal Market, St. Paul 
• Minneapolis Halal Market, Minneapolis 
• Minnesota Halal Market, Minneapolis 
• MZ Market, Shakopee 
• Oasis Market and Deli, Minneapolis
• Osari Trading, Brooklyn Center
• Palms Market, Coon Rapids 
• Pangea World Market, Coon Rapids 
• Panjha Brothers, St. Cloud
• Peace Market, Hilltop
• Qalinle Family Grocery, St. Cloud
• Shabelle Grocery, Minneapolis
• St. Paul Grocery, St. Paul
• Star Foods, Minneapolis
• Sudamic Import & Export, Minneapolis
• Sunray Halal Market, St. Paul
• Super Plaza Halal Foods, Minneapolis
• TBS International Market, Bloomington
• Viengchan Oriental Market, Brooklyn Center
• West Bank Market, Minneapolis

The latest data reported the day before Christmas shows over 1,000 people have been hospitalized so far this flu season and 128 schools have reported outbreaks, meaning at least 10% of the school's student population was out sick with respiratory illness on a given day. 

So far, 92 children ages 4 or younger have been hospitalized with the flu. 

The surge is straining Twin Cities urgent care clinics, many of which stopped accepting new patients hours before closing Friday.  

Health officials in the United States began predicting an especially brutal 2025-26 flu season earlier this year, as the new strain of influenza A, known as H3H2 subclade K, caused a surge in cases overseas. 

That highly-contagious strain is now spreading across the country and playing a role in Minnesota's particularly harsh flu season, which worsened earlier in the season than usual. 

The strain, sometimes referred to as the "super flu", has undergone several mutations that haven't been seen in flu viruses before and may cause more severe illness, according to New York's Stony Brook Medicine.

"Some experts believe these changes could reduce how well the current flu vaccine prevents infection," Stony Brook Medicine shares. "Still, getting the flu shot is important because it helps protect you from getting really sick and can help prevent serious health issues derived from the flu virus."

The Minnesota Department of Health said its Public Health Laboratory has adapted its testing to track the new strain and watch for an usual findings in the virus' genome. 

No pediatric deaths have been reported in Minnesota this flu season, but 12 adult deaths, mostly in elderly patients, have been recorded. 

The CDC recommends the seasonal flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older.

The lawsuit was filed on Tuesday, almost a week after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) unveiled a series of proposals aiming to "end the practice of sex-rejecting procedures on children," including puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgeries. 

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s declaration last Thursday seeks to withhold Medicare and Medicaid funding from hospitals that offer such care to transgender kids.

“I’ve said it before and I’ll said it again: Gender-affirming care is healthcare, period," Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said in a statement. "It is evidence-based, backed by the American Medical Association, and helps transgender individuals live their lives with the dignity we all deserve. Gender-affirming care saves lives."

Ellison and the other attorneys general argue that Kennedy's proposals violate federal law by abruptly changing medical standards and undermine states' authority to regulate medicine.

Gender-affirming care is supported by most major U.S. medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, whose president called the move by HSS a "baseless intrusion into the patient-physician relationship."

President Donald Trump signed an executive order in February to cut federal spending for gender-affirming care. That's what paved the way for Kennedy's declaration last week.

“Under my leadership, and answering President Trump’s call to action, the federal government will do everything in its power to stop unsafe, irreversible practices that put our children at risk,” Kennedy said in a statement.

Minnesota is also involved in another lawsuit stemming from Trump's executive order.

The Minnesota Department of Health has so far recorded 558 hospitalizations and three deaths in the 2025-26 flu season, which is expected to worsen in the coming weeks. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said two children died of flu-related illness last week, though no pediatric deaths have occurred in Minnesota. 

Still, children across the state are missing school as the flu invades classrooms. According to MDH, 35 school outbreaks have been reported in recent weeks. 

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The spread is considered an outbreak when at least 10% of the student population is absent on a given day due to respiratory illness. 

A Woodbury charter school, Math and Science Academy, went to e-learning last week as more than 20% of students were sick with flu or flu-like illness, according to the school's Facebook page. 

COVID and RSV are also sickening Minnesotans, though the viruses don't appear to yet be surging. 

H3N2 strain spreading rapidly  

The dominant flu strain circulating this season is a new influenza A variant called H3N2 subclade K. 

Melissa McMahon, an MDH senior epidemiologist, told the Star Tribune that H3 strains are typically more severe overall. 

The elderly and young children are among those at risk of severe illness and death as the flu can progress to pneumonia.

"H3N2 was the dominant strain in the winter of 2014-15, when Minnesota reported more than 700 school outbreaks and 10 deaths of children related to influenza," the Star Tribune reports. "That is the highest pediatric death total for any flu season since at least 2010." 

While the seasonal flu vaccine might not protect against getting sick with H3N2 subclade K, it does help prevent serious illness. 

The CDC recommends the seasonal flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. The agency estimates that approximately 1,900 Americans have died from the flu so far in the 2025-26 season. 

The boy from Long Lake passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening surrounded by family while watching a hockey game, according to a post by his mother on Weston's CaringBridge page.

“We will keep this short as it has been a long day that still does not seem real,” Danielle Paszkiewicz wrote.

"Weston, you are the most courageous, strong, resilient, incredible person ever and we love you forever."

Weston was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in January and has spent much of the year in and out of the hospital undergoing treatment.

On Sunday, he attended the Wild game against the Las Vegas Golden Knights.

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our guy Weston is in the building 🥳 pic.twitter.com/f0VJpX3UtI

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) November 16, 2025

KFAN's Zach Halverson said this past Sunday was Hockey Fights Cancer night in St. Paul and was supposed to be Weston's Make A Wish night, but it was moved up to Oct. 30 ensure Weston had the energy to participate in all of the fun that they had planned.

Weston signed a one-day contract with the Minnesota Wild back in October through Make-A-Wish, complete with an official signing ceremony alongside general manager Bill Guerin.

He also got the chance to join the team for their morning skate and carry the team flag to center ice before puck drop. 

Even though the lost to the Pittsburgh Penguin that night, the Penguins invited Weston into their locker room and presented him with their player-of-the-game helmet.

Tonight's player of the game helmet went to 10-year-old Weston Paszkiewicz, who’s battling leukemia and signed a one-day contract with the @mnwild through the Make-A-Wish Foundation 💛 pic.twitter.com/C5Ra5gFIG0

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) October 31, 2025

Several organizations, including Orono Westonka Warriors Hockey, and the Long Lake Fire Department, extended their condolences to the Paszkiewicz family on social media. 

The news comes amid financial losses for the 41-year-old organization, which recently left roughly 158,000 Minnesotans scrambling for new Medicare options after it dropped its Medicare Advantage program. 

Hilary Marden-Resnik, president and chief executive officer of UCare, said in a statement Monday that the deal with Minnetonka-based Medica will enable UCare to "preserve access to coverage for Minnesota’s most vulnerable members."

“Combined, UCare and Medica have nearly a century of industry expertise and a shared commitment to community-driven coverage for those who need it most,” she stated. 

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According to the announcement, individuals enrolled in UCare’s 2026 Medicaid and Individual and Family Plans will continue to receive services "without interruption."

But the news is raising concerns about dwindling options for patients in Minnesota, especially as looming federal Medicaid cuts threaten care access and strain hospitals, clinics and long-term care providers.

“Minnesota is a leader in healthcare in part because of our competitive, mission-driven health insurance marketplace," shared Sen. Matt Klein (DFL-Mendota Heights). "I am deeply concerned about the long-term implications of shrinking consumer choice, particularly as Minnesota braces for unprecedented instability within both the provider and payer landscape."

Lisa Erickson, chief executive officer of Medica, said continuity of care will be the company's greatest focus in the coming weeks and months. The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026. 

“As a nonprofit, community-focused health plan, Medica has a long history of serving members in Minnesota, guided by our mission and trusted relationships with providers, customers and members,” Erickson stated. “Now we have the opportunity to build upon both Medica’s strengths and UCare’s legacy, allowing Minnesotans to continue to have a health care experience that ensures they feel cared for.” 

Members with questions about how the announcements will affect their coverage are encouraged to visit Medica or UCare's websites.

The Board of Regents called a special meeting Thursday morning to address the issue, and to vote on a resolution that would censure M Physicians, accusing its leadership of exceeding its authority and violating its obligations in striking the deal.

The resolution would also "evaluate the implications and remedies arising from the conflicting loyalties and fiduciary duties created by the actions of M Physicians management, and, if so, take the necessary steps to mitigate those conflicts."

On Wednesday, Fairview Health Services and University of Minnesota Physicians announced a new partnership between the two entities that’s slated to begin on January 1, 2027 and last for an initial period of 10 years. The University is not a part of the agreement. 

In a joint statement, Fairview and M Physicians say the deal will sustain and strengthen care for Minnesotans, while expanding patient access, advancing medical education and research, and ensuring long-term stability for the state’s academic healthcare workforce.

M Physicians is the clinical practice for University of Minnesota Medical School faculty, but is separate from the university. 

Fairview Health Services is a nonprofit health system that has had a long partnership with the University of Minnesota, branded as “M Health Fairview." That existing partnership will end at the end of 2026 if no new agreement is reached, but the organizations say the door remains "open for collaboration" with the U.

For its part, the University of Minnesota says the proposed deal would have a "profoundly negative impact" on its medical school and says the proposal was negotiated without any input from University leadership or from the Board of Regents.

“This agreement strongly oversteps Fairview and UMP’s authority – and represents a hostile takeover of the University of Minnesota Medical School," the statement reads in part. 

"It puts the interests of a single regional provider and a physician group above Minnesotans, and handcuffs the University's ability to provide medical education and conduct life-saving research."

But Attorney General Keith Ellison, who helped negotiate the deal between the two parties, claimed the University was aware of the negotiations and says he was informed by the U on Sept. 12 that it did not want to negotiate with Fairview, and "instead wanted to explore options other than a relationship with Fairview.”

Concerned about a potential breakdown of the relationship between all parties, Ellison says he directed all three to write him detailed plans for what an "unwind" would look like, and also directed Fairview and M Physicians to meet and discuss ways they could "protect the continuity and stability of the integrated academic and community health systems for the sake of patients and physicians."

Ellison adds the agreement creates stability for the more than a million patients that rely on their services.

"I am pleased that the agreement provides a commitment of $1 billion in capital funding for the medical facilities because when I toured those facilities in August, I saw both the outstanding care being provided and a need for fresh resources," said Ellison.

State legislators are raising questions about the new deal, with DFL Senator Ron Latz writing the agreement raises significant questions about how the University of Minnesota Medical School would continue its core mission.

"The University of Minnesota is an essential partner in this health system, and absent their involvement in this agreement, significant questions remain about the future operations of the M Health Fairview system," Latz wrote in a statement issued Wednesday.

"Instead of shutting out University leadership, it’s time for all parties to be at the table and find an agreement that guarantees the continued operations of critical hospitals and clinics and recommits to its public service mission to all Minnesotans."

Fairview patients recently began receiving letters in the mail letting them know health services may soon be out-of-network if a deal between the two parties isn’t made.

“For several months, Fairview and United Healthcare have been working on a new contract for Fairview’s participation in UHC’s insurance plans, including plans offered through employers,” the letter details.

If a deal isn’t reached, M Health Fairview will become an out-of-network provider for United Healthcare plan holders starting on January 1, 2026. These negotiations do not impact Medicare Advantage plans.

United Healthcare is accusing Fairview of demanding a more than 23% price hike, making it significantly more expensive than any of its network health systems in the Twin Cities.

"Fairview Health’s proposal would increase health care costs for consumers and employers by $121 million over three years. Families are struggling to afford skyrocketing health care costs, which have also challenged many businesses’ abilities to continue offering their employees the health care benefits they count on," an online statement from the company reads.

“Fairview Health’s demands would lead to higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs for consumers, while impacting the cost of doing business for employers.”

United Healthcare says around $110 million of the $121 million Fairview is asking for would come out of the operating budgets of self-funded employers. United Healthcare's parent company, the UnitedHealth Group, in recent weeks posted a third-quarter profit of $2.3 billion,

In response, Fairview’s Chief Medical Officer Jaya Kumar, MD says in a statement that United Healthcare’s current commercial contract demands would force Fairview “to make impossible choices, such as cutting services, limiting access, and impacting our ability to deliver fully on our promise to our patients and communities.”

“We also remain deeply concerned about UnitedHealthcare’s administrative practices– high denial rates, increased prior authorizations and delayed payments – that create barriers to care, add costs, and cause confusion for patients and providers alike."

For its part, Fairview says its data shows UHC creates more administrative burden and fewer reimbursements than any other major insurer.

A Fairview spokesperson tells Bring Me The News UHC's final denials on hospital claims are 126%–136% higher than Fairview’s average with other major insurers, and claims requiring follow-up are 20%–29% higher than the local payer average. 

Fairview adds the possible change would not impact patients in its emergency room, as it always treats everyone regardless of their insurance or ability to pay.

The Minnesota Department of Health says that one case of the rare but serious illness has been reported in an infant in the state, one of 13 cases reported across 10 states, all of which have resulted in hospitalization.

No deaths have been reported in any of the 13 cases, with patients ranging in age from 16 days to around 6 months.

The outbreak has been linked to ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, with the following lots recalled as of Nov. 8: 

• Lot: 206VABP/251261P2 (Use by 01 Dec 2026)
• Lot: 206VABP/251131P2 (Use by 01 Dec 2026)

Botulism, described by MDH as a "a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body's nerves," often presents with constipation or with poor feeding, difficulty swalling, a weak and altered cry, and a "lack of head control."

It can then proceed to cause breathing problems, muscle paralysis, and potentially death.

If you have the affected formula listed above, throw it away or return it to where you bought it. The CDC also advises you wash items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

On Thursday, Allina Health announced that it would consolidate labor and delivery services in Faribault and Owatonna in order to "strengthen and sustain rural health care services in southern Minnesota."

The consolidation was initiated after Mayo Clinic Health System ended its agreement to provide on-call labor and delivery coverage at Owatonna Hospital, which is owned by Allina Health.

In response, Allina Health will closed its Faribault Birth Center in order to consolidate those services at Owatonna Hospital. The center will close on Dec. 1.

As part of the new care model, outpatient services including prenatal, postpartum, gynecologic, newborn and pediatric care will be offered at both facilities.

Meanwhile, Faribault Medical Center will stop emergency surgical coverage during evenings and weekends beginning Dec. 1 due to “limited availability of anesthesia services.” People requiring emergency surgery during these times will be transferred to Owatonna Hospital – about 17 miles away – or one of Allina Health’s metro locations, according to the announcement.

Faribault Medical Center will also stop admitting pediatric patients May 7.

“Maintaining rural labor and delivery programs is increasingly challenging due to provider shortages, long recruitment timelines, declining birth volumes and low reimbursement rates,” Whitney Johnson, president of Faribault Medical Center and Owatonna Hospital said in a statement.

“We understand that service changes can be difficult for the community. We want to assure our patients, care team members and the larger community, that we’ve carefully evaluated our options. This service integration allows us to prioritize safe, high-quality and sustainable care while ensuring continued access to these vital obstetric services for our region.”

In a statement, the Minnesota Nurses Associated, a union representing nurses and healthcare workers in the state, called the move "another example of corporate health systems putting profits and consolidation over patients."

"Allina's decision to close the Faribault Birth Center will impact families and add to economic stress because they must travel further for care," Lynn Auseth, RN at Allina Faribault Medical Center, said in a statement with MNA. "MNA will work closely with affected nurses who will be left without a job."

On Friday, Doctors Council SEIU announced plans for a one-day Unfair Labor Practice strike on Nov. 5 if an agreement isn’t reached during upcoming bargaining sessions.

The union represents more than 600 Allina doctors, physicians’ assistants and nurse practitioners at 61 clinics.

The council voted to unionize in 2023, making it the largest private-sector doctor's union in the United States.

Since February 2024, the union says it has been involved in 50 bargaining sessions with Allina to work out its first contract.

During those sessions, Dr. Nick VenOsdel, a pediatrician at Allina’s Hastings clinic, claims Allina had refused to negotiate “basic contract items,” including health care, retirement, and sick leave.

VenOsdel also pointed to turnover and burnout among physicians.

“At this point… we do not see a way to make further progress if we do not announce a strike,” VenOsdel said in a video announcement.

“If we don’t do this, what we’re looking at is taking what Allina’s offering… And really the fear is if we do that, we are going to see primary care continue to get worse at Allina.”

The union is also asking for minimum staffing levels to address shortages. Dr. Cora Walsh, a family physician at the Allina West St. Paul Clinic, said inadequate staffing has resulted in wait times of more than an hour for patients to have their labs drawn after seeing a provider.

The union chose a one-day strike in order to “minimize the impact on patient care,” VenOsdel said.

Upcoming bargaining sessions are on Oct. 29 and Nov. 3. 

In a statement, Allina said that the union's demands for "significant compensation increases and extreme benefits proposals are simply not realistic or sustainable."

"Given the rising health care insurance costs, the ongoing financial challenges for health care providers and anticipated reductions in reimbursements and programs like Medicaid, we cannot agree to a contract that will add significant new costs and will undermine our ability to operate and serve the community," it said.

As of Nov. 17, Mayo Clinic Health System will no longer provide on-call labor and delivery coverage at Owatonna Hospital, and those services will then transfer back to owner and operator Allina Health.

Mayo is unable to continue lending its physicians to Owatonna Hospital, per an agreement with Allina, due to "recent staffing challenges and the ongoing nationwide shortage of OB/GYN physicians," the Rochester-based system confirmed to Bring Me The News on Monday.

Allina is working to "preserve these vital services," and it's actively talking with Mayo in an effort to "establish sustainable labor and delivery coverage at Owatonna Hospital." But until it comes up with a solution, patients who go into labor could have to travel to hospitals that are at least 40 minutes away, per MPR News.

About 400 babies are born at Owatonna Hospital every year.

"Recognizing the widely understood and significant challenges of physician recruitment, declining birth and reimbursement in rural communities, we have accelerated our planning and are assessing all options," Allina said in a statement provided to Bring Me The News.

Mayo says it "remains deeply committed to supporting patients and serving the Owatonna community" and working with Allina "to explore new ways to collaborate on labor and delivery services."

Mayo will continue to offer prenatal and postpartum care at Owatonna Hospital.

"MCHS care teams will continue working with each patient to support their needs through every stage of their pregnancy and ensure they receive safe, coordinated and high-quality care," the system said in a statement. "Expectant mothers will continue to receive prenatal and postpartum care from their MCHS teams in Owatonna, and providers will work directly with each patient to review their birth plan, discuss delivery options, and ensure a smooth, coordinated experience."

Mayo announced in September that it's closing six medical clinics in southeastern Minnesota before the end of the year. It's also transferring some elective surgeries from Albert Lea to Austin and Waseca.

As reported by the Rochester Post Bulletin, southern Minnesota has faced a slate of other labor and delivery unit closures in recent years. Mayo stopped providing those services at its hospitals in Fairmont and New Prague in 2024 and in Albert Lea in 2019.

Related: Mayo closing 6 clinics across southeastern Minnesota

On Friday, Olmsted County Public Health Services announced that a child under the age of five had a confirmed case of measles and was exhibiting symptoms.

The child, who was unvaccinated against the virus that causes the disease, had recently traveled internationally, according to the office. OCPHS says it is working with the Minnesota Department of Health to contact those who were exposed to the child.

According to data from MDH, last updated on Oct. 9, a total of 20 measles cases have been reported in the state in 2025.

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash that is known is spread from the head to the rest of the body. Serious cases can lead to hospitalization and death.

In its announcement, Olmsted County health officials emphasized the importance of vaccination against measles for children.  

"The best way to prevent measles is through immunization. Children should receive two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine—the first at 12 to 15 months of age and the second at 4 to 6 years of age," the department said. 

"For all ages, it is important to talk to your doctor if you are going to be traveling to another country or an area of the United States with a measles outbreak. Children 6 to 12 months old can get an early dose of MMR vaccine if their travels will put them at high risk for measles. Your doctor can check to make sure you and your family are up to date on your immunizations and make sure you do not need any other immunizations."

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) on Tuesday said 107 cases have been recorded this year, with 79 people hospitalized and 10 deaths. 

The number of West Nile cases confirmed in 2025 represent the state's worst outbreak season since 2003, when cases reached 148. 

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Elizabeth Schiffman, who supervises MDH's Vectorborne Diseases Unit, told The Forum "everything just kind of came together to create a perfect storm for West Nile" this year. 

A hot and rainy summer that stretched into an unseasonably warm September allowed mosquito populations to continue to thrive late in the season. 

Schiffman also said the season's first hard freeze is still a way off, but health officials are encouraged to see cases of West Nile slowing down this month. 

About West Nile virus 

According to MDH, most people who are bitten by a West Nile-infected mosquito will experience either no symptoms or mild flu-like illness. 

Symptoms usually show up within one to two weeks after a mosquito bite and less than 1% of people who are infected develop encephalitis or meningitis. 

West Nile is found throughout Minnesota, but agricultural regions in the western and central portions of the state are considered the highest risk areas.

Elderly patients and those with weakened immune systems are the most vulnerable to severe illness or death from West Nile. 

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce released finalized rates for 2026, which show average increases of 21.5% for individual plans and 14.2% for small group plans.

“Health insurance rates for 2026 are going up, and the numbers are alarming,” Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold said during a Wednesday press conference at the Capitol. “We had anticipated an increase, but what we’re seeing is a real gut punch.”

Last month, the department shared proposed increases between 7% and 26% on the individual market, due to higher prices from doctors, hospitals and pharmacies and the expanded use of health care overall.

But the finalized rates released on Wednesday show an increase from all providers compared to the projected rates released in July, with UCare's rising the highest from a proposed 14.79% to a finalized 27.48%.

These are the final average rate increases on individual plans for 2026:

• Blue Plus: 18.7%
• HealthPartners, Inc.: 13.31% ^{(*new to the exchange in 2026)}
• HealthPartners Insurance Company: 19.15% ^{(*new to the exchange in 2026)}
• Medica Insurance Company: 30.76%
• Quartz Health Plan MN: 7.4%
• UCare: 27.48%

But costs will climb even higher for Minnesotans who purchase their coverage through MNsure if the U.S. Congress doesn't extend enhanced federal tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as "Obamacare," which are set to expire at the end of 2025.

If those subsidies go away, about 89,000 Minnesotans – roughly half of those covered on the individual market – face an additional premium increase of nearly $200 per month. As a result, an estimated 20,000 Minnesotans would lose all financial assistance, and 62,000 may be encouraged to drop private coverage due to cost increases and other changes.

Democratic lawmakers blame the Trump administration and the Republican-led U.S. Congress for failing to renew the pandemic-era tax credits through their recently enacted "Big Beautiful Bill."

"The Trump budget ... has put the health care of 90,000 Minnesotans in jeopardy by eliminating the tax credits they need to afford coverage next year," Senate Majority Erin Murphy (DFL-St. Paul) said in a statement Wednesday. "This was done in Washington, D.C. to help pay for trillions of dollars in tax cuts skewed to benefit wealthy millionaires and billionaires."

A government shutdown began Wednesday, with Democrats holding out for an extension of the tax credits and the reversal of Medicaid cuts in budget negotiations, while Republicans have refused to negotiate on health care and other issues until the government reopens.

Related: What does the federal government shutdown mean for Minnesota?

Minnesota's U.S. Sen. Tina Smith said she won't stand for being "bullied into voting for their partisan bill that will leave Minnesotans facing a near-doubling of their health insurance costs."

"I’m ready to get to work whenever Republicans want to work with me and other Democrats to fund important medical research and help Minnesotans afford their health care," she said in a statement Wednesday. "That’s the only path forward, and I’m ready whenever they are.”

Another 140,000 Minnesotans are slated to lose health care coverage due to Medicaid cuts under Trump, which are set to go into effect in 2027, after the mid-terms.

Health insurance rates aren’t released in December, they’re released this month.

We have to get a bipartisan deal now or millions of people are going to be priced out of health insurance. https://t.co/GR9Au1CoS6

— Tina Smith (@SenTinaSmith) October 2, 2025

However, the Minnesota Department of Commerce points out that premiums would have risen another 47% if the Legislature had not recently extended the state's reinsurance program, which helps keep rates down for everyone by covering a portion of the most expensive health insurance claims.

“Although no one is excited about a 20% premium increase, it could have been more than a 40% jump without Minnesota’s reinsurance program,” reads a Thursday statement from state Sen. Tim O’Driscoll (R-Sartell), co-chair of the Minnesota House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee.

Open enrollment begins Nov. 1 through MNsure.

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Department of Health announced the new cases, bringing the state’s total for the year to 18 cases. 

The agency says the 10 new cases can all be tied to either domestic or international travel and are all among unvaccinated people.

Seven of the new cases reported this week impacted families who had recently traveled domestically and were related to the 3 other cases reported in Dakota County last week. 

The 3 unrelated, additional cases were tied to international travel.

The new measles cases mark a trend being seen across the country with cases on the rise this year. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed more than 1,500 measles cases this year, the highest the agency has seen since 1992. Of the 2025 cases, three people have died.

The Twin Cities experienced a spike in measles cases in 2022, after four years without any documented cases in Minnesota, and another serious outbreak in 2024.

The 70 infections confirmed in 2024 represented the state's second worst year for measles in more than the past two decades, only trailing behind the 2017 outbreak that grew to 75 confirmed cases.

In light of the new infections, Minnesota state health officials are urging families to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations, especially if they plan on traveling.

“The significant increase in measles cases around the U.S. this year, and the fact that measles is still very prevalent in other countries, continues to highlight the urgency for families to make sure their children are up to date on their measles immunizations,” said assistant commissioner for MDH's Health Protection Bureau Myra Kunas in a statement.

“Measles is one of the most infectious diseases on the planet. It spreads easily, and it finds those who are not vaccinated.”

Children should receive the first MMR vaccine dose at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.

More information can be found on the state’s measles website. 

The Minnesota Department of Health said the confirmed cases are each in unvaccinated children in Dakota County with no history of recent travel. 

The agency says health officials believe the children were exposed to measles from an unvaccinated family member who'd recently traveled domestically and reported measles-like symptoms, but was not tested. 

MDH and local health departments have been working to contact those who might've been exposed to one of the recently confirmed cases. 

Minnesota has so far detected eight cases of measles in 2025, including a case in a child who visited Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America while potentially contagious in late May. 

Childhood immunizations rates fell in Minnesota and nationally during the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving some communities well below the 90% vaccination rate experts believe is needed to prevent large measles outbreaks.

Outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles are intensifying globally, with the World Health Organization citing vaccine misinformation and cuts to public health funding among the driving factors. 

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been criticized by medical bodies for "mixed messages" on the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. NBC News reports that during a major outbreak in Texas earlier this year he described the vaccine as "effective" in preventing the spread of measles, but also made false claims it has not been "safety tested" and "wanes very quickly."

The Twin Cities experienced an alarming rise in measles cases in 2022, after four years without any documented cases in Minnesota, and another serious outbreak in 2024. 

The seventy infections confirmed in 2024 represented the state's second worst year for measles in more than the past two decades, only trailing behind the 2017 outbreak that grew to 75 confirmed cases.

Shimia Nord, a recent graduate of Duluth East High School, died on Sep. 15, having been diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in 2023.

Faced with the terminal illness, Nord celebrated an early graduation alongside friends with the Make-A-Wish Foundation last spring, as reported by the Star Tribune.

A GoFundMe created to help Nord’s family pay for medical expenses also raised more than $57,000.

Now, a fundraiser to help pay for memorial costs has been created.

“Funds raised will go toward the cost of Shimia's celebration of life and other end of life financial strains placed on the family as they walk the unthinkable path of laying their beloved daughter and sister to rest,” the fundraiser reads.

According to her obituary, Nord was an avid dancer and enjoyed working with children. This fall, she was accepted into all 15 colleges she applied to.

"But God had other plans and called her home early. Shimia was able to light up any room with her infectious smile and positive attitude. She was always able to make a joke to brighten your day or get out of an uncomfortable conversation," the obituary read. 

As of Thursday, the GoFundMe had reached around $3,500 of its $5,000 goal.

A celebration of life for Nord will be held at Clyde Iron Works in Duluth on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) announced Monday that rather than following the latest Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance, it is instead endorsing recommendations from professional medical associations for the 2025-26 vaccine, which is beginning to arrive at clinics and pharmacies across the state.

Guidance from the associations – American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) – recommends that all people over 6-months-old should have the option of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine without additional barriers.

The vaccine is strongly recommended by the associations for children under two years, pregnant women, children and adults with high-risk conditions, and adults age 65 and older.

MDH also issued a protocol that "empowers pharmacists to offer COVID-19 vaccination broadly."

MDH considers the advice "the best science-based guidance on immunizations at this time."

"We’re following the science, and the science is clear," Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham said in a statement Monday. "COVID-19 vaccines prevent severe illness and death for people of all ages, and we want to ensure access to vaccination."

Her statement continued: "This is a unique moment where vaccine information from federal health leaders leaves important information gaps for Minnesotans. These independent medical associations have all looked at the science and concluded that COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and important for people across the lifespan.”

The latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine for those aged over 65 and young people with underlying health conditions.

A CDC panel last week voted to recommend that people aged between six months and 64 years old should speak with a clinician before getting the shot, saying it should be down to "individual-based decision-making."

While the panel stopped short of backing a proposal to require a prescription for the vaccine, its recommendations are another sign of the Department of Health and Human Service's vaccine skeptical policies under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy.

Gov. Tim Walz recently issued an executive order to protect broad access to COVID-19 vaccines throughout Minnesota. The order also directed MDH to provide clear vaccination guidelines for providers and the public.

"Vaccines are one of the greatest public health achievements in modern medicine and help protect people of all ages," MDH Medical Director and State Epidemiologist Dr. Ruth Lynfield said in a statement Monday. "We encourage people to talk to their health care provider about all of the vaccines that are recommended for them, especially flu, RSV and COVID-19 vaccines, right now as we enter the respiratory disease season."

For those interested in obtaining a COVID-19 vaccine, MDH recommends calling your clinic or pharmacy to confirm vaccine availability and contacting your insurance provider with questions about coverage.

More information on COVID-19 vaccine access in Minnesota can be found here.