Health

West Nile Virus cases on the rise in ND

The department has confirmed seven reports of the West Nile Virus amongst people across the state.

NORTH DAKOTA (KVRR) — The North Dakota Department of Health is warning of an increase in West Nile Virus cases across the state. The department has seen a rise in cases in recent weeks and is reminding people to be cautious when it comes to mosquitoes and still water. The department has confirmed seven reports of the West Nile Virus…

ND Department of Health discusses COVID-19 breakthrough cases

"We will have breakthrough cases, it's inevitable and no vaccine is perfect."

NORTH DAKOTA (KVRR) — The North Dakota Department of Health is discussing breakthrough and reinfection data concerning COVID-19. As more people receive their vaccines against COVID-19 some who are fully vaccinated are testing positive for the virus. Health officials are calling those breakthrough cases. “A breakthrough case is an individual that tests positive for COVID-19 after they are fully vaccinated….

Concerned about staff shortages, area hospitals brace for COVID-19 surge

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Area hospitals are bracing for a COVID-19 surge that will likely strain their resources. This comes at the heels of more patients than usual being seen for medical conditions not related to the coronavirus. “We’ve been very busy the last two to three months with non-COVID cases, and so the rise in COVID cases is just…

Pfizer vaccine gets full FDA approval, local doctor doesn’t believe more people will get it

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – The Food and Drug Administration giving full approval to Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine is what many in health care expected, but will that lead more people to getting their shot? “This will push people over the edge to go get the vaccine because it is our, our best protection,” Former Acting FDA Commissioner Retired Admiral Brett Giroir…

Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine gets full FDA approval

The FDA has never before had so much evidence to judge a shot’s safety.

WASHINGTON (AP) – The U.S. has given full approval to the COVID-19 vaccine made by Pfizer. The Food and Drug Administration’s decision on Monday may help lift public confidence in vaccinations as the nation battles the most contagious coronavirus mutant yet. The FDA has never before had so much evidence to judge a shot’s safety. More than 200 million doses…

LIVE: Escape Room Murder Mystery at Ft. Sisseton

The pandemic was murder on recreation sites in the region... until they found a creative solution. Now you can be a part of it.

Lake City, S.D. — It was looking pretty bleak in terms of keeping visitor attractions going at Ft. Sisseton State Park during this pandemic. Then, they hit on the perfect solution. Murder. That’s the stroke of inspiration from state park manager Ali Jo Tonsfeldt, who figured out a murder mystery could be the perfect way to get guests back into…

Essentia Health seeing unseasonably high cases of RSV in children

A local pediatrician says she's seeing more children getting admitted to the hospital for a respiratory-related illness

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Children across the metro are getting infected with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, commonly known as RSV, earlier in the year than usual. “I’m definitely admitting children every single day with RSV and classically in years past, we would be admitting these kids in November and December and we’re seeing several a day that are getting admitted with…

Back to school backpack safety tips

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Whether you’re buying a new backpack for your child, or they’re using the same one from last year, make sure it fits right. Health experts say they should weigh no more than 10 percent of a kid’s body weight. Backpacks also need to have two padded shoulder straps to keep weight distributed evenly. Look out for…

UND recommends COVID vaccine to incoming students

The university is granting faculty members the authority to require masks in their classrooms.

GRAND FORKS (KFGO) – As students prepare to return to the University of North Dakota next week, UND President Andrew Armacost – in a message to the campus community – said getting vaccinated is the best defense against COVID-19. According to the UND website, anyone wishing to wear a mask is encouraged to do so. The university is granting faculty…

Sanford Health offers remote community vaccination clinic

First round of Pfizer vaccines were given at the Arbors at McCormick Park apartment complex.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — A remote vaccination clinic is making it easier for people in one apartment complex to get their COVID-19 vaccines. Sanford Health is giving people living at the Arbors at McCormick Park apartment complex the chance to get their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine. Officials say it’s a convenient way for those who may find it…