In the rush to deploy as many COVID-19 tests as possible, important nuances are being lost about which kinds of tests are not worth doing, causing waste and potential harm during a pandemic, according to a new report from a University of Minnesota policy center.
The latest figures from the Minnesota Department of Health showed 534 COVID-19 cases in hospitals — a decline of 32 compared with Thursday — but a record 233 of those patients needing intensive care.The department also reported 33 more deaths and 813 more cases.
The number of Minnesotans hospitalized for COVID-19 is 566 — with 229 in intensive care, according to the department, which also reported that the growth in new hospital admissions is above a new target goal.
Starting June 1, bars and restaurants can open for outdoor service. Hair salons and campgrounds also can reopen, with limits. But the state's restrictions are more than what Iowa, the Dakotas and Wisconsin have.
Minnesota reported that 550 people with COVID-19 are admitted to hospitals in the state, including 212 patients who needed intensive care. The state's hospital numbers had leveled off over the past week, but then increased from 488 on Monday and 545 Tuesday.
Gov. Tim Walz and Democratic legislative leaders blamed the top House Republican on Monday for the Legislature's failure to agree on a public construction borrowing bill during the regular session, but they said they'll keep trying to reach a deal in time for a special session expected to begin June 12.
The Minnesota Department of Health reported another 808 lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the total in the pandemic to 14,240. The state also reported another 20 deaths, bringing the toll to 683.