Coronavirus

A week away from the start of school for many Iowans, University of Iowa Health Care at noon today is hosting a Facebook Live Q&A specifically about COVID-19 and kids.

Public health officials statewide said there are two major drivers of the current COVID-19 surge: the virus’ delta variant, which spreads from person to person more easily than the original virus; and people who have not received one of the COVID-19 vaccines.

A list of the Eastern Iowa arts presenters that received federal pandemic relief funds via Shuttered Venue Operators Grants.

115 Iowa arts and entertainment organizations received a total $44,537,369 in federal pandemic grants to help recoup losses from COVID-19.

While the vaccines are highly effective against the virus, some immunocompromised people may not have the same strong response.

Board finds that Gov. Kim Reynolds didn’t violate any laws when she appeared in a series of taxpayer-funded ads last fall promoting coronavirus public safety measures.

A University of Iowa epidemiologist takes questions from The Gazette as children head back to school.

“My biggest concern is there are equity issues, where some children had a lot more resources. ... And then there are other kids who just didn't have those same resources and support. And I'm worried that those are the kids that are going to fall a lot more behind.”

Despite predictions for a vastly different academic year than last, University of Iowa faculty again are raising safety concerns as they head into a fall semester with COVID cases rising — echoing demands from a year ago for stronger administrative stances and public health precautions.

The state has again adjusted the way it is reporting COVID-19 data, this time pushing its weekly release of updated hospitalization data to 11:45 p.m.

Speakers at Wednesday’s rally, including parents and medical professionals, called on Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds to issue an executive order allowing districts to enact mask policies if they want.

Housing, child care and climate were key issues mentioned Wednesday night

As of late Wednesday, the Iowa Department of Pubic Health’s website listed 355 hospitalizations statewide. That’s the highest number of patients since 360 were recorded on Feb. 4, according to analysis by The Gazette.

After a sharp rise in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of Iowans receiving food stamps has continued a seven-year decline.

Buildings where masks are required include the Coralville Recreation Center, Coralville Public Library, the Coralville Center for the Performing Arts and Brown Deer Golf Club.