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Provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The case count will update with IDOH updates. Last update was March 25 at 3 p.m.
The Indiana Department of Health added 228 COVID-19 cases to the state's total Friday, bringing it to 1,690,144. The cases were confirmed between March 22, 2021 and March 24, 2022. It also added 16 confirmed COVID-19 deaths, raising the state's total to 22,438. The deaths occurred between Jan. 20 and March 23.
As of Friday, more than 3.76 million individuals had received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and more than 3.69 million were fully vaccinated. More than 1.73 million booster doses had been administered.
The results of 19.35 million COVID-19 tests have been reported to the IDOH to date. The state's 7-day positivity rate among all tests (as of March 17) is 2.1 percent.
Central Indiana Weekly Cases Per 100,000 Residents
as of March 21
| Boone County | 29 |
| Hamilton County | 26 |
| Hancock County | 23 |
| Hendricks County | 9 |
| Johnson County | 13 |
| Madison County | 20 |
| Marion County | 14 |
| Morgan County | 11 |
| Shelby County | 13 |
Find Indiana COVID-19 Testing Sites
Find a COVID-19 Vaccination Site and Register
COVID-19 Vaccinations
All Hoosiers 5 and older are now elegible to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The Indiana Department of Health expanded COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to children 5 to 11 years old on Nov. 3, following a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Eligibility was opened to 12- to 15-year-olds on May 13.
READ MORE: Coronavirus FAQ: It's cold and flu season — and COVID season! How do I stay unsick?
Vaccination appointments can be scheduled by visiting OurShot.IN.gov, or calling 211. Assistance with scheduling an appointment is also available through one of Indiana’s Area Agencies on Aging.
The IDOH is encouraging Hoosiers who cannot find an appointment at the nearest location to look at other sites in neighboring counties. It said appointments are being added regularly as vaccine supplies permit.
The first doses of the COVID-19 vaccines in Indiana were offered in December 2020 to frontline health care workers across the state as well as long-term care facility residents and staff.
The vaccines became available to the general public on Jan. 8 when registration for COVID-19 vaccination appointments opened for Hoosiers age 80 and older. About 21,000 registered in the first 90 minutes. The rush triggered technical issues and slowdowns. By the end of business that first day 53,000 people 80 and older had registered for the free vaccine.
Read More: How Is Indiana Distributing The COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Health officials encourage anyone with symptoms to call the IDOH Epidemiology Resource Center at 317-233-7125 (or 317-233-1325 after hours) or e-mail epiresource@isdh.in.gov. COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.
The Indiana Department of Health provides daily updates on its COVID-19 online dashboard.
A map of Indiana's COVID-19 vaccination sites is available here. To register for an appointment, click the location on the map and then the "click here to register" link.
This is an evolving story, and we are working hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, we recommend checking the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Indiana Department of Health for the most recent numbers of COVID-19 cases.
LEE MAS: QU NECESITA SABER ACERCA DEL CORONAVIRUS? TENEMOS RESPUESTAS.
News Coverage
April 2022
April 5, 2022
2022 ILEARN gives administrators another chance to track pandemic impact on schooling
Teachers, students and administrators have dealt with a lot the past two years, and many are looking to the end of school with the hope of having a “normal” year this fall. But before that, the annual ILEARN exams begin this month.
Read More
April 5, 2022
Indiana manufacturers look to automation with workers hard to find
Most Indiana manufacturers feel COVID-19 is no longer a significant threat to their businesses. In an annual survey, many said they expect profits to rise. Instead, they’re frustrated with supply chain slowdowns and labor shortages.
Read More
April 5, 2022
Indiana Supreme Court to hear arguments in lawsuit between governor, legislature
The Indiana Supreme Court will finally hear a case between Gov. Eric Holcomb and the General Assembly over emergency powers.
Read MoreMarch 2022
March 31, 2022
How funding cuts for COVID-19 tests and treatments could worsen health disparities
Congress rejected pleas from the White House to pump more money into programs that ensure COVID tests, treatments and vaccines are free for everyone. Public health experts warn the funding cuts will worsen health disparities and hurt those who are already most vulnerable.
Read More
March 30, 2022
Indiana Department of Health overhauls its COVID-19 dashboard
The Indiana Department of Health is making major changes to its COVID-19 dashboard, which includes removing information that had been available for much of the pandemic.
Read More
March 30, 2022
High-risk Hoosiers are now eligible for a second COVID-19 booster shot
Indiana health officials announced Wednesday that providers can begin to administer second boosters to Hoosiers aged 50 and older and certain immunocompromised people 12 and older.
Read More
March 28, 2022
Recovery experts worry about long-term effects of pandemic drinking
Studies reported a 50 percent spike in drinking initially, with levels remaining elevated throughout 2020. Addiction experts say it's still an issue that could have serious consequences down the road.
Read More
March 24, 2022
Indiana COVID-19 hospitalizations drop to lowest in 2 years
The total COVID-19 patients at Indiana hospitals stood at 360 as of Tuesday, down about 90% from mid-January, according to state health department tracking.
Read More
March 23, 2022
Mortgage refinance program helps Marion County residents impacted by pandemic
Renew Indianapolis, has invested more than $2.6 million to help 19 homeowners who fell behind on their mortgages because of the pandemic.
Read More
March 23, 2022
Children of health care workers had a front row seat to the pandemic. It took a toll.
Two years into the pandemic, data shows that the toll on children's mental health has been profound. Children of frontline health care workers had a front row seat to the pandemics scariest moments from day one.
Read More
March 22, 2022
Hospitalization depended heavily on race and vaccination status during U.S. omicron wave
Black adults in the U.S. were hospitalized at nearly four times the rate of White adults during the recent omicron wave, according to a new study from the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Read More
March 21, 2022
Two years in: The pandemic through the eyes of a health care worker’s spouse
Stories about the stress health care workers on the frontlines have experienced are common. But their families have also been on an emotional rollercoaster for more than two years.
Read More
March 15, 2022
Indiana health workers saw spike in workplace injury, illness in 2020
Overall, only about 3 in every 100 full-time workers had an on-the-job injury or illness in Indiana, continuing a years-long decline. But, meanwhile, about 7 out of 100 health care workers had a work-related incident — a 50 percent increase from the year before.
Read More
March 12, 2022
Notre Dame easing COVID mask mandate effective Monday
The University of Notre Dame is easing its mask mandate starting Monday, leaving them optional indoors for staff, students and visitors who are fully vaccinated.
Read More
March 7, 2022
The pandemic may delay progress toward closing racial gaps in cancer outcomes
While cancer death rates in the U.S. have declined in recent years, racial disparities persist. Midwestern states — including Iowa, Illinois, Missouri and Indiana — have some of the highest rates of cancer mortality for Black residents in the country. Public health advocates have worked for years to close the racial gap, but some worry the pandemic will delay progress.
Read More
March 7, 2022
Coronavirus: Holcomb ends public health emergency, Indiana eclipses 22,000 dead
Indiana surpasses 22,000 dead, as the rate of new deaths slows. Gov. Eric Holcomb signs the General Assembly’s less restrictive COVID-19 vaccine mandate bill. And he ended the state’s public health emergency, which had been in place since March 2020.
Read More
March 3, 2022
House gives final approval to less restrictive COVID-19 vaccine employer mandate bill
The debate in the General Assembly over how and whether to restrict businesses from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates is over.
Read More
March 3, 2022
AG Rokita backs The People's Convoy: 'Thank you for standing up'
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita made a surprise appearance at the People's Convoy rally Wednesday night. The convoy is a trucker-led group that plans to hold a protest in Washington D.C. against vaccine mandates and government overreach throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Read More
March 3, 2022
How a rural hospital broke language barriers to provide COVID vaccines to immigrants
Some small towns in the Midwest are growing due to an influx of immigrants, which includes some who speak rare languages. Hospitals and community leaders have had to adapt to make COVID vaccines accessible to those communities.
Read More
March 3, 2022
Gov. Eric Holcomb officially ends Indiana's COVID-19 public health emergency
Gov. Eric Holcomb signed an executive order Thursday ending the emergency declaration that's been in place since March 2020.
Read More
March 2, 2022
Indiana surpasses 22,000 dead, rate slows following trend with cases, hospitalizations
Indiana added 1,000 new confirmed COVID-19 deaths to its total in about a month, pushing the state past another milestone: 22,000 dead.
Read More
March 2, 2022
Ball State to drop COVID-19 mask mandate
Ball State University is the latest Hoosier public university to drop its COVID-19 indoor face mask mandate.
Read MoreMarch 1, 2022
Senate approves less restrictive COVID-19 vaccine employer mandate bill
The biggest change the Senate made to HB 1001 involves religious exemptions to getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Read More
March 1, 2022
Muncie and Marion orchestras to combine, look to expansion
The last few years have been hard on orchestras around the country, including in Muncie and Marion – COVID-19, dwindling season ticket sales, major staff turnovers.
Read MoreFebruary 2022
February 28, 2022
Coronavirus: Physician pushes back on Rokita advisory, IDOH makes changes to dashboard
The Indiana Department of Health made new changes to its dashboard. Hoosier physicians push back on Attorney General Todd Rokita’s advisory on unproven COVID-19 treatments. And Indiana has reported fewer than 1,000 new cases statewide for seven days.
Read More
February 25, 2022
Indiana physician pushes back on Rokita’s legal advisory on unproven COVID treatments
An Indianapolis doctor on the COVID frontlines worries a statement issued by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita will fuel misinformation about unproven COVID treatments and sow distrust with the medical community.
Read More
February 23, 2022
IDOH eliminates individual positivity rate, testing from dashboard; adds new youth data
The Indiana Department of Health said the adjustments to data displayed on its COVID-19 dashboard were in response to its recent shifts in school reporting and the current state of the pandemic.
Read More
February 22, 2022
IU Health working through backlog of procedures as COVID cases decline
Health systems are still struggling to keep up with demand despite declining COVID-19 hospitalizations.
Read More
February 21, 2022
Coronavirus: Senate scales back vaccine mandate bill, IDOH issues new school guidance
A Senate committee dramatically scales back the House’s vaccine mandate bill. The Indiana Department of Health releases new school COVID-19 guidance. And COVID-19 data continues to improve.
Read More
February 18, 2022
Positive COVID-19 trends prompts IDOH to make changes to testing, National Guard support
Indiana's COVID-19 cases have fallen significantly over the last several weeks. That's prompting the Indiana Department of Health to scale back on testing.
Read More
February 18, 2022
IU to lift its mask requirement in 2 weeks
A university spokesperson says student health and learning remain the primary focus, while pointing to declining case counts and the campus’s high rate of vaccination.
Read More
February 17, 2022
As nurses demand higher pay, nursing homes and staffing agencies clash on the price
Amid a nursing shortage, nursing homes are relying on staffing agencies for help — but they're charging more for their services. Agencies say it's simply supply and demand. Nursing homes say they're being gouged. And the nurses themselves just want to make more money.
Read More
February 17, 2022
Rental assistance program marks milestone
Through Indy Rent, more than $100 million in rental assistance has gone out to tens of thousands of households.
Read More
February 17, 2022
Indiana eliminates contact tracing, quarantine guidance for schools
The Indiana Department of Health updated its quarantine guidance for schools, which goes into effect Wednesday Feb. 23.
Read More
February 16, 2022
Senate committee dramatically scales back COVID-19 vaccine mandate bill
Senate lawmakers Wednesday significantly scaled back legislation that would've largely prevented private employers from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Read More
February 15, 2022
Rising rent, pandemic making it hard for people with criminal records to find housing
For people who have just been released from jail or prison, rising rent combined with adjusting to life in a pandemic makes finding housing more difficult than ever.
Read More
February 14, 2022
Coronavirus: Lawmakers aim to tackle nursing shortage, Indiana surpasses 21,000 dead
Lawmakers aim to address nursing shortages. Indiana surpasses 21,000 dead. And statewide COVID-19 cases continue to drop.
Read More
February 12, 2022
US authorizes Eli Lilly's new antibody drug to fight omicron
The Food and Drug Administration said it cleared the Eli Lilly drug for adults and adolescent patients with mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19.
Read More
February 9, 2022
Indiana eclipses 21,000 dead, reports 1,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in just two weeks
With updated data Tuesday, the Indiana Department of Health brought its confirmed COVID-19 deaths total to 21,079. For context, that’s larger than the population of 25 counties in Indiana.
Read More
February 7, 2022
Some moms look to breast milk to protect kids too young to be vaccinated
Research suggests breast milk from vaccinated mothers offers at least some protection against the coronavirus. With children under 5 still too young for the vaccine, some parents are seeking out donated breast milk with antibodies for protection.
Read More
February 7, 2022
Coronavirus: Winter storm shuts down testing sites, IDOE launches pandemic relief dashboard
The Indiana Department of Education launches a database to track schools’ spending of pandemic relief funding. The state health department shuts down vaccine and testing sites during the winter storm. And statewide COVID-19 cases are down.
Read More
February 2, 2022
Marion County Public Health Department announces closures ahead of winter storm
All Marion County Public Health Department locations will be closed Thursday. Anyone who has a scheduled COVID-19 vaccine or testing appointment will be contacted to reschedule.
Read More
February 2, 2022
Indiana governor extends COVID-19 emergency amid debate
In extending the order for a 23rd time, Holcomb cited the state’s high rate of infection and pointed out that the vast majority of people being hospitalized with COVID-19 aren’t vaccinated.
Read More
February 1, 2022
Indiana Department of Health adjusts COVID testing, vaccine operations ahead of winter storm
The Indiana Department of Health and many local health departments are making changes to their COVID-19 testing and vaccination clinics ahead of an approaching winter storm.
Read MoreJanuary 2022
January 31, 2022
For some doctors-in-training, it’s become all COVID all the time
As the pandemic drags on, doctors continue to be pulled away from their normal duties to care for COVID patients. For early-career physicians, that means less time for specialized training.
Read More
January 31, 2022
Coronavirus: No contact tracing for schools with mask mandates, state eclipses 20,000 dead
Some Indiana school districts no longer need to do contact tracing. The state’s COVID-19 cases have continued to slow as it reaches 1.6 million confirmed cases. And the state surpassed 20,000 dead, reporting its most recent 1,000 in just two weeks.
Read More
January 28, 2022
Indiana eclipses 1.6 million confirmed COVID-19 cases, but cases appear to be slowing
Indiana surpassed 1.6 million confirmed COVID-19 cases Friday, just over a week from its most recent milestone.
Read More
January 28, 2022
Indiana Senate backs narrow bill to end health emergency
The Indiana Senate has approved a bill taking administrative steps that Gov. Eric Holcomb has said are needed in order for him to end the statewide COVID-19 public health emergency.
Read More
January 28, 2022
IU Health shares update on impact of COVID at its hospitals
Indiana's largest hospital system says COVID-19 cases continue to be high across the network, but numbers are improving slightly.
Read More
January 26, 2022
Challenge to Indiana University vaccine mandate nixed again
Indiana University announced last May that the COVID-19 vaccination mandate for its some 115,000 students and employees at campuses around the state would take effect in the fall semester.
Read More
January 23, 2022
Rural Hoosier communities rally as COVID-19 worsens child care crisis for parents, providers
COVID-19 has only added to challenges many child care providers face, especially in rural
areas.
Read Moreareas.
January 21, 2022
Expanded ICU capacity 'new norm' for hospitals navigating two years of COVID-19
It's normal for hospitals to expand intensive care unit capacity, especially during flu seasons. To do so requires health care staff, supplies and space. But hospitals say they've already been running at capacity for the last two years, largely because of the effects of COVID-19.
Read More
January 21, 2022
Marion County delays jury trials' return amid COVID-19 cases
Court officials in Marion County announced Thursday that jury trials would resume "with a phased in approach" starting Jan. 31.
Read More
January 20, 2022
Indiana surpasses 1.5 million confirmed COVID-19 cases, but sees early signs of slowing
With Thursday's update from the Indiana Department of Health, Indiana surpassed 1.5 million confirmed COVID-19 cases. The state hit that milestone just one week after surpassing 1.4 million.
Read More
January 20, 2022
All 92 Indiana counties reach top COVID-19 spread risk level
The color-coded coronavirus risk map on the Indiana Department of Health's dashboard showed that as of Wednesday the entire state was in the highest-risk red category, which indicates very high community spread of COVID-19.
Read More
January 19, 2022
Current COVID surge also affecting Indiana prisons
In early January, fewer than 100 incarcerated people had the virus. As of Wednesday, the Indiana Department of Correction reported 571 positive cases.
Read More
January 18, 2022
As COVID overwhelms health departments, some scale back on contact tracing
As the omicron surge continues, health officials in some states have given up trying to trace close contacts in all cases. That shift, combined with recent changes in isolation guidelines, is leaving many confused and unsure what to do.
Read More
January 18, 2022
Indiana House passes effective ban on COVID-19 vaccine mandates
The Indiana House voted Tuesday to effectively block private companies from enforcing COVID-19 mandates.
Read More
January 18, 2022
Indiana vaccine exemption bill advances, faces GOP hurdles
The Republican-dominated Indiana House voted 57-35 largely along party lines in favor of the bill, sending it to the Senate for consideration.
Read More
January 18, 2022
Indiana fully vaccinated its first Hoosier a year ago. Where are we now?
Indiana fully vaccinated its first Hoosier a year ago Tuesday, on Jan. 18, 2021. But where does the state stand now?
Read More
January 18, 2022
'Why are you telling me how to run my business?' HB 1001 frustrates, confuses some employers
Under the bill, which is set for a House vote Tuesday, businesses are allowed to require employees to be vaccinated. But if they do so, they'd have to accept four exemptions.
Read More
January 17, 2022
You asked: What are monoclonal antibodies, and how are they used to treat COVID-19?
As the omicron variant pushes COVID-19 case counts to new highs, we've received audience questions about monoclonal antibodies, which are used to prevent and treat infection from the coronavirus. To get answers, Side Effects Public Media spoke with Dr. Myron Cohen, a professor of medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Read More
January 17, 2022
Coronavirus: Senate smooths path to end public emergency, state hits 1.4M surpasses, 19K dead
The Indiana House scraps its proposal to raise unemployment insurance taxes on employers unwilling to grant vaccine mandates. The state Senate advances a bill to allow the governor to end the public health emergency. And Indiana surpasses both 1.4 million confirmed COVID-19 cases and 19,000 dead.
Read More
January 14, 2022
With record-breaking daily cases and limited testing, should we still pay attention to cases?
Indiana has set several new records for daily cases since the COVID-19 variant omicron hit the state. Those new cases are straining the state's ability to test Hoosiers, meaning more positive cases are falling through the cracks.
Read More
January 13, 2022
Indiana reports 16,000+ new COVID-19 cases, pushing confirmed total past 1.4 million
With late Thursday's update from the Indiana Department of Health, Indiana surpassed 1.4 million confirmed COVID-19 cases.
Read More
January 13, 2022
Indiana government leaders react to Supreme Court vaccine mandate opinions
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he respects two opinions issued from the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday. Attorney General Todd Rokita said in a statement the court correctly decided against the “intrusive federal overreach of the OSHA rule.”
Read More
January 13, 2022
Employer penalty removed as Indiana vaccine mandate bill moves ahead in the House
The Indiana House scrapped a proposal to raise unemployment insurance taxes as a penalty to employers unwilling to grant vaccine exemptions.
Read More
January 13, 2022
Marion County schools 'desperate' to stay open as staff COVID cases hit record highs
School districts across Indiana are reporting the highest number of staff and student COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, driven by the highly contagious omicron variant.
Read More
January 12, 2022
Amid the pandemic, many rural churches are struggling to stay open
Arthur Farnsley, a senior research fellow at the Center for the study of Religion on American Culture, isn’t surprised to hear the pandemic has created challenges for small churches.
Read More
January 12, 2022
Senate panel OKs bill smoothing path for governor to end public health emergency
Gov. Eric Holcomb could end the state’s public health emergency without jeopardizing millions in federal funding under a bill approved by a Senate committee Wednesday.
Read More
January 11, 2022
Holcomb delivers sixth State of the State address
Gov. Eric Holcomb delivered his sixth State of the State address Tuesday to a joint session of the Indiana General Assembly.
Read More
January 10, 2022
Indiana eclipses 19,000 dead, reporting 1,000 deaths in just more than two weeks
With updated data from the weekend, the Indiana Department of Health brought its confirmed COVID-19 deaths total to 19,084. For context, that’s larger than the population of 17 counties in Indiana.
Read More
January 10, 2022
Database: Indiana schools' plans for $3B in federal COVID stimulus
Indiana schools received nearly $3 billion in pandemic relief. They are required to post plans for how they will use at least some of that money. This database links to those plans.
Read More
January 10, 2022
Pike, Warren schools pivot to virtual learning as staffing shortages continue
Two of Marion County’s 11 school districts have switched to remote learning for at least part of this week due to staff illnesses.
Read More
January 10, 2022
Local health department to host COVID-19 vaccine, testing clinic downtown
The Marion County Public Health Department will host a COVID-19 vaccine and testing mobile clinic during College Football Playoff Championship festivities Monday.
Read More
January 7, 2022
Skyrocketing omicron cases are less likely to be severe, but could still overwhelm hospitals
There is a lot of evidence to suggest that omicron cases are less likely to result in hospitalizations. But while the individual risk of severe infection is lower, experts say the skyrocketing number of COVID-19 cases may still result in a crush of new hospitalizations.
Read MoreJanuary 7, 2022
Marion County jury trials halted after COVID-19 hits staff
All jury trials in Marion County will be delayed and reset to dates after Jan. 21, the Executive Committee of the Marion Superior Court and the Judge of the Circuit Court announced Thursday.
Read More
January 7, 2022
House, Senate leaders abandon all COVID-19 precautions for 2022 session
Indiana House and Senate leaders don't appear to have many plans in place if there are significant COVID-19 outbreaks this session.
Read More
January 6, 2022
COVID-19 vaccine mandate ban legislation clears first hurdle, adds unemployment benefits
A bill to effectively ban private companies from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates cleared its first hurdle at the Statehouse Thursday.
Read More
January 6, 2022
House GOP's 2022 priorities include tax cuts, curbing COVID-19 vaccine mandates
Indiana House Republicans' 2022 agenda is led by efforts to cut $1 billion in taxes and curb COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Read More
January 5, 2022
Following CDC guidance, Indiana expands COVID-19 boosters to Hoosiers 12-15 years old
The Indiana Department of Health announced late Wednesday Hoosiers 12 to 15 years old are now eligible for booster shots.
Read More
January 5, 2022
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box reinfected with COVID-19, isolating at home
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box has become reinfected with COVID-19. She tested positive after developing symptoms on Monday, and has been isolating at home.
Read More
January 5, 2022
COVID-19 surge not deterring push to end Indiana emergency
The Republican-dominated state Legislature started its 2022 session Tuesday and planned to quickly take up actions that GOP Gov. Eric Holcomb says will allow him to drop the emergency declaration that he first issued in March 2020.
Read More
January 4, 2022
Riley Children’s Hospital is treating record numbers of COVID patients
At a news conference on Tuesday, Riley Children’s Health chief medical officer Dr. Elaine Cox said about four times as many children are being admitted to Riley Hospital now than at any other point in the pandemic.
Read More
January 4, 2022
IDOH announces new limitations for rapid COVID-19 tests at state sites
The Indiana Department of Health will limit rapid antigen COVID-19 testing at state sites to Hoosiers 18 and younger and symptomatic Hoosiers 50 and older.
Read More
January 4, 2022
Purdue outlines plans for in-person start to next semester
Purdue University Tuesday outlined its plans for an in-person start to the second semester, as the school reported its sharpest increase in COVID-19 testing positivity rates this academic year.
Read More
January 4, 2022
What did COVID-19 look like in Indiana by the numbers?
Indiana experienced COVID-19 whiplash throughout 2021 – setting both pandemic lows and record highs for cases and hospital capacity. But what did 2021 look like in Indiana by the numbers?
Read More
January 4, 2022
Notre Dame reinstates mask mandate amid COVID-19 surge
The University of Notre Dame has reinstated a mask requirement for all students, staff and campus visitors as the omicron variant fuels a surge in COVID-19 cases across the country.
Read More
January 3, 2022
Insurance executive says death rates among working-age people up 40 percent
As COVID-19 deaths approach 19,000 in Indiana, the insurance industry has been processing claims at a record rate. Nationally, more than 824,000 people have died from the virus.
Read More
January 3, 2022
Coronavirus: State reports 12,000+ cases in one day, Holcomb 'blindsided' by Rokita comments
Indiana reports more than 12,000 new COVID-19 cases in a single day. State health officials raise the alarm about Indiana’s overwhelmed hospitals. And Gov. Eric Holcomb said he was “stunned” by Attorney General Todd Rokita’s comments saying he “doesn’t believe any numbers any more.”
Read MoreDecember 2021
December 30, 2021
Indiana updates K-12 school guidance after CDC offers new COVID-19 isolation rules
Indiana officials updated guidance for K-12 schools after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced new isolation guidelines for COVID-19 cases this week, and masking largely determines how long students have to stay home.
Read More
December 30, 2021
Indiana reports 12,000+ new COVID-19 cases Thursday, shattering pandemic record
Indiana reported more than 12,000 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, setting a pandemic record on the heels of an increase in new cases and hospitalizations.
Read More
December 30, 2021
As hospitalizations rise, industry leaders call on unvaccinated to get COVID-19 shot
Indiana business and hospital leaders called on unvaccinated people to get the shot after the state topped more than 3,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations this week.
Read More
December 30, 2021
How one small Iowa town continues to deal with the effects of a major COVID outbreak
Nationwide, COVID-19 disproportionately affected communities of color — in part because the U.S. relies on immigrant workers in food and agriculture.
Read More
December 29, 2021
Meatpacking jobs are attractive to immigrants. COVID made the work even riskier
Immigrants make up an estimated 40 percent of the U.S. meat processing workforce. Last years wave of COVID outbreaks at meatpacking plants exposed many vulnerabilities among the industry's diverse workforce.
Read More
December 28, 2021
Nearly two years into COVID, worker safety is still a concern at meatpacking plants
The coronavirus swept through the nations meat processing facilities in 2020. Nearly two years into the pandemic, many are still searching for answers and calling for change.
Read More
December 23, 2021
Indiana surpasses 18,000 confirmed dead, 1.2 million confirmed COVID-19 cases
Indiana has added 1,000 new confirmed COVID-19 deaths to its total in a little more than three weeks, pushing the state past another grim milestone: 18,000 dead. The state also reported its most recent 100,000 new cases.
Read More
December 20, 2021
Hospitals approach capacity as omicron first detected in Indiana
Over the weekend, health officials in Indiana confirmed the first case of the omicron variant in the state. The arrival of the highly infectious variant – now identified in at least 45 states – comes when hospitals across Indiana are already facing critical shortages.
Read More
December 20, 2021
Health experts preach COVID-19 precautions ahead of end-of-year winter holidays
Epidemiologists are preaching caution ahead of end-of-year winter holidays. This comes as the state reports high COVID-19 transmission, overwhelmed hospitals and its first case of omicron.
Read More
December 20, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana reports first omicron case, COVID-19 hospital census surpasses 3,000
Indiana reports its first case of the COVID-19 variant omicron. Epidemiologists and hospitals sound the alarm as hospitalizations rise across the state. And Hoosiers testify on the House Republican bill that would effectively ban employer vaccine mandates.
Read More
December 19, 2021
State health officials confirm omicron variant of COVID-19 in Indiana
The Indiana Department of Health announced Sunday that the omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus was detected in the state.
Read More
December 19, 2021
Deceptive videos used to link athlete deaths to COVID shots
Jake West collapsed during high school football practice in Indiana and died of sudden cardiac arrest in 2013. A video widely shared online falsely suggests COVID-19 vaccination is to blame, weaving headlines about him into a rapid-fire compilation of news coverage about athletes collapsing.
Read More
December 17, 2021
‘We need help’ IU Health pushed to the brink with record number of COVID-19 patients
More than two-thirds of patients systemwide requiring intensive care are due to complications from COVID-19.
Read More
December 17, 2021
Holcomb wants health emergency provisions split from vaccine mandate ban
Indiana House Republicans have tied a controversial push to effectively ban private companies from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates to language that would help end the state’s public health emergency.
Read More
December 17, 2021
Mental health worsened during pandemic, but fewer college students reached out for help
National studies show mental health challenges have increased because of the coronavirus pandemic -- and more so in college-age people. But, college counseling centers saw a decline in those seeking services at the same time.
Read More
December 17, 2021
Notre Dame requiring booster shots for all faculty and staff
Last week, the University of Notre Dame announced it would require all students to get a COVID-19 booster shot. The university is now requiring all faculty and staff to get their boosters as well.
Read More
December 16, 2021
Hoosiers rail against proposed employer vaccine mandate bill from multiple fronts
Dozens of Hoosiers testified against a bill Thursday that would weaken employer vaccination requirements.
Read More
December 15, 2021
COVID-19 hospitalizations rise as an estimated 1 in 10 Hoosiers has active infection
Indiana's COVID-19 hospital census surpassed 3,000 for the first time in 2021. And hospitals are stretched ahead of the holidays.
Read More
December 13, 2021
Lawmakers to hear testimony Thursday on COVID-19 vaccine mandate legislation
Indiana House lawmakers will take testimony Thursday – for the second time in about three weeks – on a bill that would effectively ban private companies from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Read More
December 13, 2021
Faith, medicine and COVID-19: Why do religious vaccine exemptions exist?
Exemptions are federally protected under the Civil Rights Act of 1964. But what is the history of these exemptions and what are the consequences?
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December 10, 2021
Surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations threatens health care systems and the holidays
COVID-19 hospitalizations this week reached levels not seen since January, when vaccines were in extremely limited supply.
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December 10, 2021
GM CEO says making ventilators at Indiana factory changed the company culture
General Motors CEO Mary Barra said the automaker learned valuable lessons last year when it converted an Indiana factory to boost emergency production of ventilators to treat severely ill COVID-19 patients.
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December 9, 2021
IU Health Hospitals ask for help from National Guard as COVID-19 hospitalizations increase
The first national guard team arrived in Muncie Wednesday, and other IU Health hospitals are expecting them in the coming days.
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December 9, 2021
Half of Indiana counties at highest-risk COVID-19 levels
Half of Indiana’s counties are now in the highest-risk level of COVID-19 spread as the latest infection surge across the state has pushed hospitalizations from the illness up 25% in the past week.
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December 8, 2021
Muncie-area hospitals approaching last winter’s high COVID-19 cases in another surge
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows Indiana is one of four states with the largest surges in COVID-19 hospitalizations.
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December 8, 2021
How shaky ivermectin studies overseas wreaked havoc in the U.S.
Not a single scientific or health authority in the U.S. recommends the use of the anti-parasitic drug ivermectin to treat or prevent COVID-19. Still, some Americans see the unproven drug as a way out of the pandemic.
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December 8, 2021
Holcomb 'frustrated' with absurd vaccine-refusal reasons
With Indiana’s COVID-19 hospitalizations doubling in the past month, Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb is expressing frustration with what he calls “absurd” reasons some people have for refusing vaccinations.
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December 8, 2021
U.S. Senator Braun largely opposes bans on private employer COVID-19 vaccine mandates
Braun is currently leading a bipartisan fight in Congress to halt President Joe Biden’s rule that would force companies with at least 100 employees to either get their workers vaccinated or undergo weekly COVID-19 testing.
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December 7, 2021
What laws say about religious exemptions and how Indiana lawmakers could change them
A complicated mix of federal rules and newly proposed state laws leave many companies wondering how to keep workers safe while honoring religious rights.
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December 3, 2021
Holcomb says COVID-19 is 'going to be with us for a long time'
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he and other state officials are constantly monitoring the COVID-19 situation as concerns rise about the virus’s newest version, the omicron variant.
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December 2, 2021
Omicron's mutations are concerning, but also make the variant easier to detect
The first U.S. omicron case was identified Wednesday about a week after its discovery in South Africa. While there are concerns about the variants transmissibility, the number of mutations it possesses make it easier to detect than other strains.
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December 2, 2021
Goshen Hospital experiencing highest patient surge since November 2020
According to a release from the hospital, 41 patients are currently hospitalized with COVID, 35 of whom are unvaccinated. That’s the highest number of COVID patients so far this year.
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December 2, 2021
Indiana COVID-19 health emergency likely extending into 2022
Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb signed the 21st monthlong extension of the public health emergency he first issued in March 2020 along with an executive order continuing a handful of administrative actions but no business or crowd restrictions. Both orders are in effect until Jan. 1.
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December 1, 2021
Indiana eclipses 6,000 new COVID-19 cases, reports 17,000 confirmed dead
The Indiana Department of Health reported more than 6,000 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday.
Read MoreNovember 2021
November 30, 2021
Indiana medical groups plead for more to get COVID-19 shots
The Indiana Hospital Association, Indiana State Medical Association and Indiana State Nurses Association said more vaccinations are needed to relieve pressure on the state's health care system.
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November 30, 2021
House GOP's top 2022 priority is stopping COVID-19 vaccine mandates
Indiana House Republicans have revealed their top priority for the 2022 legislative session. The House GOP caucus's 56 members signed on to a reintroduced bill that would effectively ban private companies from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
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November 29, 2021
Nearly 62,000 Hoosiers ages 5 to 11 receive COVID-19 vaccine in just less than a month
Pediatric COVID-19 vaccine appointments opened just more than four weeks ago -- nearly 62,000 have already received at least one of two doses.
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November 29, 2021
Indiana's COVID-19 surge continued over Thanksgiving weekend
Indiana has seen a 66% increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations over the past three weeks after declines from a summer surge peak of nearly 2,700 patients in September.
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November 24, 2021
GOP backs off plan to pass COVID-19 vaccine mandate restrictions in single-day session
Republican lawmakers are backing off their plan to return to the Statehouse next week to pass a bill that effectively bars employers from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
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November 24, 2021
Children’s holiday favorite returns with precautions
Opportunities for children to sit on Santa’s lap for pictures and chat about toys were different last year because of COVID-19.
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November 23, 2021
Dozens testify, many opposed, on proposed COVID-19 vaccine mandate bill
Proposed legislation that would effectively ban businesses from enforcing COVID-19 vaccine mandates drew heavy disapproval during an hours-long Statehouse hearing Tuesday.
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November 23, 2021
IDOH launches resource to connect Hoosiers to monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19
The Indiana Department of Health has launched a new resource for Hoosiers with questions about COVID-19 treatments. The hotline will help connect people to monoclonal antibody treatment centers.
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November 22, 2021
Former U.S. Surgeon General on COVID-19: 'We’re going to have to learn to live with this virus'
Former U.S. Surgeon General and Indiana state health commissioner Dr. Jerome Adams says a winter COVID-19 surge in Indiana isn't a matter of "if" but "how bad."
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November 22, 2021
Holcomb not yet backing proposed COVID-19 vaccine mandate restrictions for businesses
Gov. Eric Holcomb Monday wouldn’t throw his support behind proposed legislation that would effectively stop private businesses from imposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
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November 21, 2021
Coronavirus: Boosters open to all, lawmakers aim to restrict businesses' vaccine mandates
Indiana lawmakers announce they will come back into session before the end of November to help the governor end the state's public health emergency. At the same time, lawmakers also intend to change how private businesses can require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine. And the Indiana Department of Health has announced boosters are available for all Hoosiers 18 and older.
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November 21, 2021
Indiana expands COVID-19 booster doses to all 18 and older, following CDC guidance
The Indiana Department of Health has announced boosters are available for all Hoosiers 18 and older regardless of occupation, age or underlying health condition.
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November 20, 2021
Indiana lawmakers aim to restrict businesses' ability to mandate COVID-19 vaccine
Indiana lawmakers will come into session before the end of November to significantly change how private businesses can require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Read MoreNovember 18, 2021
These are the teacher and staff vaccination rates after IPS offered a $300 incentive
To collect a $300 incentive, 71 percent of Indianapolis Public Schools staff has reported receiving COVID-19 vaccinations, district officials said.
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November 17, 2021
Indiana high court taking governor's suit over emergency law
The Indiana Supreme Court issued an order Wednesday taking over a lawsuit that Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb filed against the GOP-dominated Legislature contending that a law granting the power violates the state constitution.
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November 17, 2021
Butler University pharmacy college dean talks pharmacy job market
Pharmacists are the latest members of the medical field in demand to fill a rising number of job openings.
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November 15, 2021
COVID-19 vaccine for young kids is a hot shot in some areas
Some Indiana counties quickly exhausted their first batch of COVID-19 vaccine for young children and are waiting for more.
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November 15, 2021
GOP leaders not sold on total ban of private businesses' COVID-19 vaccine mandates
Republican legislative leaders don't sound ready to ban Indiana companies from imposing COVID-19 vaccine mandates. But the issue isn't going to be left alone in the 2022 session, either.
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November 15, 2021
Butler University pharmacy college dean talks pharmacist shortage
As the COVID-19 pandemic lingers Indiana pharmacies face a shortage of pharmacists.
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November 15, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana vaccinates nearly 9,000 kids, despite cancellations last week
Nearly 9,000 Hoosier kids received their first COVID-19 dose in about a week – despite an error with the state’s online system, which caused cancellations. And Indiana officially filed its lawsuit against federal workplace vaccine rules.
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November 12, 2021
Nearly 9,000 Hoosiers ages 5 to 11 receive COVID-19 vaccine in eight days
About 9,000 kids ages 5-to-11 in Indiana have already received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine -- just eight days after pediatric appointments opened.
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November 9, 2021
Indiana solves kids' COVID-19 vaccination appointment mix-up
Indiana has solved a scheduling mix-up that led to cancellation of COVID-19 vaccination appointments for children ages 5 to 11.
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November 8, 2021
Indiana files lawsuit against federal workplace safety agency over vaccination requirement
Indiana filed a legal argument late Friday night, asking a federal judge to halt federal vaccine requirements in the workplace.
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November 8, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana starts vaccinating 5 and older, state sues over workplace vaccine rules
Indiana opens vaccine registration for 5- to 11-year-olds. Pediatricians work to dispel COVID-19 vaccine myths. And the state sues the federal government over workplace vaccine rules.
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November 4, 2021
No classroom. Missing friends. How the pandemic jolted Indiana’s special education students
As schools scrambled to deliver special education services in an online format during the early months of the pandemic, students with disabilities faced unique challenges. But many special education students lost more than classroom time and educational services; they also lost social opportunities.
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November 4, 2021
Indiana plans to challenge federal vaccination requirements for employers
Gov. Eric Holcomb is directing state agencies to find a way to legally challenge new federal regulations requiring workplace vaccinations.
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November 3, 2021
Vaccine registration for 5- to 11-year-olds starts Thursday at 8 a.m. in Indiana
Starting Thursday, Hoosiers 5 and older can register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Wednesday's announcement from the Indiana Department of Health follows federal approval.
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November 3, 2021
Marion County Public Health Department will offer COVID vaccines for kids 5 and older beginning Thursday
The pediatric Pfizer vaccine will be administered at existing clinics for youth ages 5-11.
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November 2, 2021
As Indiana prepares to vaccinate Hoosiers 5 and older, pediatricians dispel COVID-19 myths
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s advisory committee prepares to make their recommendations on COVID-19 vaccinations for kids 5 and older, pediatric doctors are making their case to parents. A Riley Children’s Hospital physician said that means dispelling misinformation.
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November 2, 2021
Both sides ask Indiana high court to decide on emergency law
Indiana's attorney general continues to criticize Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb for trying to block a new law that gives state legislators more power to intervene during public health emergencies, even while agreeing that the state Supreme Court should take up the dispute.
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November 1, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana surpasses 16,000 dead, prepares for 11 and younger vaccines
Indiana surpasses 16,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths. Health officials say anyone who wants to can get their booster shot. And the state prepares to vaccinate children 5 to 11 years old.
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November 1, 2021
Holcomb contemplates ending public health emergency, even as pandemic continues
Gov. Eric Holcomb said Indiana is at a point where he thankfully can contemplate ending the public health emergency around the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreOctober 2021
October 31, 2021
Holcomb extends public health emergency, even as he looks to end it
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he's exploring ways to end the states public health emergency surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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October 28, 2021
Indiana expects 200,000 COVID vaccines for kids next week
Indiana officials said Wednesday that the state should be able to immediately inoculate a third of children ages 5 to 11 as preparations are made to expand Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine for the age group if the federal government gives it approval.
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October 28, 2021
Indiana county taking health grant amid COVID-19 suspicions
St. Joseph County will accept a $3 million federal grant for health programs in minority communities even though some officials wanted to reject it over suspicions of facing more federal COVID-19 restrictions.
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October 28, 2021
State health officials encourage COVID-19 booster shots for anyone who wants one
State health officials say anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot should feel free to get one.
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October 27, 2021
Chronic absenteeism spiked during COVID in Indiana schools
Nearly 19 percent of Indiana students were chronically absent last school year, a substantial increase from the years before the pandemic.
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October 27, 2021
Indiana prepared to administer COVID-19 to children under 12 next week
Indiana Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lindsay Weaver said the state has already been preparing to get children under 12 vaccinated against COVID-19.
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October 26, 2021
Indiana eclipses 16,000 dead, but sees rate slow as new cases continue to fall
Indiana has added 1,000 new confirmed COVID-19 deaths to its total in four weeks, pushing the state past another grim milestone: 16,000 dead.
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October 25, 2021
Indiana humanities groups getting $830K in pandemic relief
Seventy-eight organizations have been awarded grants, which comes from pandemic stimulus funding approved earlier this year by Congress.
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October 25, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana surpasses 1M COVID-19 cases, begins Moderna, J&J booster rollout
Indiana surpasses 1 million confirmed COVID-19 cases. Health officials grow concerned that hesitancy will play into other vaccines like the flu. And the state begins its rollout of booster shots.
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October 22, 2021
Holcomb appeals in emergency powers lawsuit against fellow Republicans
Gov. Eric Holcomb is appealing a judge's ruling in his emergency powers lawsuit against the General Assembly.
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October 22, 2021
Eligible Hoosiers can now receive boosters of Moderna, Johnson & Johnson vaccines
The Indiana Department of Health announced Friday it will offer booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines to eligible Hoosiers.
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October 21, 2021
Indianapolis Zoo's African lions test positive for Delta variant of COVID-19
It is unclear as to how the lions caught the virus. The zoo said all staff are vaccinated and no staff working in proximity to the cats were sick or showed signs of the virus.
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October 20, 2021
Health experts cautiously optimistic for a better pandemic winter after last year's surge
Last winter saw a surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths. Health experts say there is reason to be hopeful this second pandemic winter will be different.
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October 19, 2021
Bankruptcy lawyers expect filings to increase in 2022
The COVID-19 pandemic along with the expiration of the eviction moratorium is expected to fuel a rise in bankruptcy filings at the beginning of 2022, according to an Indianapolis-based lawyer.
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October 18, 2021
Bloomington among college towns planning to challenge results of 2020 census
When the pandemic struck the U.S. around spring break of 2020, it set off an exodus in college towns as classrooms went virtual almost overnight. The sudden departure of tens of thousands of students made it difficult to count them in the census, which began at almost the same time.
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October 18, 2021
Coronavirus: Questions linger for Biden vaccine rules, student COVID-19 cases continue decline
Student COVID-19 cases are dropping, in line with statewide declines. At the same time, businesses and workers have questions about how Indiana's government will respond to the new Biden administration vaccine rule. And experts say it's too soon to call COVID-19 "endemic."
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October 18, 2021
Booster shots outpacing new COVID-19 vaccinations in Indiana
The Indiana Health Department added booster shots given to its daily tracking of vaccine distribution.
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October 15, 2021
Camp Atterbury says most eligible evacuees have been vaccinated against COVID
Camp officials recently completed a campaign to vaccinate over 6,100 evacuees against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Flu vaccinations will begin this weekend, as will second doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.
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October 15, 2021
13 independent music venues get funding from Music Cities Strategy Recovery Program
Thirteen independent music venues across Marion County each received an average of nearly $19,000 through the program created to support recovery from the pandemic.
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October 15, 2021
Exhausted hospital workers face ongoing COVID-19 hospitalizations
The number of individuals hospitalized with COVID-19 remains high across the country and the Midwest. With the delta variant dominating cases, patients now are younger, sicker and often require more intensive care, hospitals like Methodist in Des Moines are facing pressure.
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October 13, 2021
Too soon to call COVID-19 endemic, experts say
After a year and a half of the COVID-19 pandemic, public health experts believe we're still a way off from endemic — a term used for a disease that is normally seen in a population.
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October 12, 2021
Indiana's COVID-19 vaccination pace falls to lowest level
The state health department's tracking shows Indiana giving about 6,000 shots a day through last week -- about half the rate from early September.
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October 12, 2021
Questions linger as employers and workers wait for Biden's new vaccine rules
The Indiana Department of Labor will be charged with enforcing the new rule, although labor unions have long said the agency is routinely underfunded.
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October 11, 2021
Indiana's latest COVID-19 update shows further decline in newly reported school cases
Indiana saw an explosive number of COVID-19 cases reported in schools as many kicked off the new academic year without requiring masks. But since a peak around Labor Day, Hoosier schools have reported fewer new cases each week.
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October 11, 2021
Coronavirus: Child care providers struggle, legislators score emergency powers lawsuit win
Lawmakers score a major victory in their legal battle over emergency powers. Indiana announces a half-a-billion dollar grant program to stabilize the child care industry. And the state reports its fewest number of new COVID-19 cases in more than a month.
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October 11, 2021
How being a hospital chaplain motivated one pastor to address COVID-19 misinformation
With roughly a third of the vaccine-eligible population in the U.S. still not fully vaccinated against COVID-19, public health officials have been calling on trust community voices to address hesitancy, mistrust and misinformation about the coronavirus vaccine. Keith Thomas has taken that message to heart.
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October 11, 2021
Far Eastside community arts center opening postponed, again, due to pandemic
The Far Eastside of Indianapolis has faced years of social disadvantage as it struggles with poverty and violence. But a community leader hopes that will change with the opening of a new arts and cultural center. But there’s only one thing still preventing it from opening: the COVID-19 pandemic.
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October 8, 2021
Holcomb preaches calm after court loss over emergency powers law
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he’s evaluating all his options after a major loss in his legal battle with state lawmakers.
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October 8, 2021
Ball State: Employee COVID-19 vaccination numbers differ by type of job
Ball State University has a wide gap in employee COVID-19 vaccinations by type of job, according to internal data.
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October 7, 2021
As staff shortages worsen, early learning providers are turning some families away
Millions of dollars in grant funding is being made available to help stabilize the early learning and child care industry, but as providers wait for cash to flow their way, worsening staff shortages are forcing some to abruptly close.
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October 7, 2021
Legislators score major victory over governor in emergency powers legal battle
Indiana Republican lawmakers scored a huge victory Thursday in their court battle with Gov. Eric Holcomb over emergency powers.
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October 6, 2021
Indiana announces $540 million grant program aiming to stabilize child care industry
Indiana is making more than half a billion dollars available to early learning providers across the state, through a grant program that aims to stabilize the industry as some providers struggle to keep their doors open.
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October 6, 2021
What you need to know about COVID-19 booster shots
Should you get a COVID-19 booster shot? Who's eligible? When should you get the extra dose? We talked to an expert to get answers.
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October 5, 2021
Research suggests COVID-19 vaccine prevented 1,300 elderly deaths in Indiana
A federal study estimates the COVID-19 vaccine prevented 1,300 deaths in Indiana during the first five months of this year.
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October 4, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana exceeds 15,000 dead, officials preach caution amid positive trends
Indiana surpasses more than 15,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths. The state health commissioner urges pregnant Hoosiers to get vaccinated. And despite positive trends, health officials preach caution.
Read MoreSeptember 2021
September 30, 2021
Governor Holcomb extends public health emergency for 19th time
Gov. Eric Holcomb renewed his emergency declaration for the 19th time Thursday. That declaration triggers his broad emergency powers and ensures Indiana remains eligible for federal relief.
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September 29, 2021
Box Urges Pregnant People To Get COVID-19 Vaccine
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box is urging pregnant people to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Box said she's worried about the increasingly apparent harm the virus can pose to them and their babies.
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September 29, 2021
State Health Officials Preach Caution Amid Positive Signs Of COVID-19 Surge
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box said the number of cases per day and average positivity rate is starting to come down. But she also said improvement won’t necessarily be steady.
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September 28, 2021
National Guard Deployed To 3 Indiana Hospitals As Pandemic Surges
Indiana National Guard members are assisting three hospitals as increased COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths stretch the capacity of overworked and understaffed hospitals even thinner.
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September 28, 2021
Indiana Exceeds 15,000 Dead, A Larger Share Of Younger Hoosiers Make Up Recent Deaths
With updated death data from the weekend, the Indiana Department of Health reported 89 deaths, bringing the total to 15,069.
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September 28, 2021
Martinsville Considering Ordinance To Ban Mask, Vaccine Mandates
A five-person committee tasked to examine the issue is expected to have a recommendation by the Oct. 12 city council meeting
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September 28, 2021
Pike Township Resumes In-Person Learning After Bus Shortage Disrupts Classes
The Pike Township school district will resume in-person learning on Wednesday after a bus driver shortage resulted in students learning online for two days. The transportation problem kept students from reaching school buildings since last week, and forced the district to quickly provide virtual learning this week.
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September 27, 2021
Mask Objectors Disrupt More Indiana School Board Meetings
Sheriff's deputies were called to the Center Grove school board meeting Thursday night after those not wearing masks wouldn’t leave so the meeting could start.
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September 27, 2021
State Health Department Alters Timing On COVID-19 Dashboard Updates
The Indiana Department of Health said it will update the dashboards at www.coronavirus.in.gov and www.ourshot.in.gov daily by 5 p.m.
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September 26, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana To Offer Pfizer Boosters, Vaccine Mandate Ban Fails In House – So Far
Indiana's COVID-19 cases are slowly declining as experts say the U.S. has hit its peak for the delta variant. The state is opening booster shots to certain groups of Hoosiers who received the Pfizer vaccine. And a new study out of the University of Notre Dame says Black and Brown communities saw disproportionately high non-COVID deaths in 2020.
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September 24, 2021
No Ban On COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates In Indiana – For Now
The Indiana House dismissed an attempt by one lawmaker this week to ban any COVID-19 vaccine mandates in the state. But that likely won’t be the last time this issue comes up in the General Assembly.
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September 24, 2021
IDOH To Offer Pfizer Booster Shots, Following FDA, CDC Guidance
The Indiana Department of Health announced Friday Pfizer booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine are now available for certain groups of Hoosiers.
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September 24, 2021
Indiana State U. Requiring Vaccinations Or Tests In 2022
Indiana State University will require that all students and staff show proof of vaccination by Jan. 1 or be tested each week for COVID-19, the school's president said Thursday.
Read MoreSeptember 23, 2021
Indiana Virus Spread Stays High While Hospitalizations Dip
Nearly all Indiana counties remain in the higher risk categories for COVID-19 spread on the state Health Department’s risk ratings.
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September 21, 2021
Black Men Lost More Years Of Life Than Previous Years, And It’s Not All Because Of COVID
The U.S. saw more than 400,000 extra deaths in 2020 compared to the previous two years. Much of this excess death was caused by COVID-19. But new research from the University of Notre Dame suggests that around 15 percent of these deaths are not directly related to the virus.
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September 20, 2021
Americans Are Turning Down COVID-19 Vaccines That Some Are Traveling Thousands Of Miles To Get
The U.S. has secured more doses than the country's COVID-19 vaccine needs. But around the world, millions of people have no access to vaccines in their home countries. And that makes some people travel thousands of miles to get a shot here in the U.S. if they can afford it.
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September 20, 2021
Indiana County Rejects Health Grant Amid COVID-19 Complaints
Health officials are frustrated after the Elkhart County Council rejected a $3 million federal grant following vocal opposition from residents tying it to a litany of COVID-19 complaints.
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September 17, 2021
IU Health Reports 125 Employees Leave After Refusing To Get COVID-19 Vaccine
IU Health announced in June that it would require all doctors, nurses, and other employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Sept. 1.
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September 16, 2021
Are Hoosiers Being Hospitalized For COVID-19 With Mild Symptoms? Data Says No
A new piece of COVID-19 misinformation claims that most of the summer surge of hospitalizations are actually people who aren’t really sick.
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September 16, 2021
Facing Influx Of Child Care COVID-19 Relief Funds, Providers Say Staffing Is Top Of Mind
According to Early Learning Indiana, more than $1 billion in federal COVID-19 relief is coming to Indiana specifically for child care an amount providers likely won't see again.
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September 16, 2021
Mask Breaks At Schools Violate Indiana’s New Quarantine Policy
School districts have jumped at the chance to implement new state quarantine guidance that allows asymptomatic students and staff to stay in school if they come in close contact with COVID-19 in the classroom. But education leaders say limited communication from the state has led some public school districts to unknowingly violate the new quarantine policy.
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September 16, 2021
COVID Outbreak At Northern Indiana Jail
Twenty-three Inmates and two jailers tested positive for COVID-19 in the Pulaski County Jail.
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September 16, 2021
Indiana ICUs Stressed By COVID-19 Surge Gripping The State
Nearly all Indiana counties are in the higher risk categories for COVID-19 spread on the state health department's risk ratings.
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September 16, 2021
Indiana Aviation Companies Receive More Than $1 Million Total Though Federal Program
The Aviation Manufacturing Jobs Protection program recently announced more than $400 million in its first round for businesses across the country.
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September 15, 2021
Regional IU Health President: 'We Are In Full Crisis Mode'
On Tuesday, IU Health Ball in Muncie was treating 104 COVID-19 positive patients, occupying approximately 40 percent of the hospital's beds.
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September 13, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 900,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases, Hits Milestone In Just Four Weeks
The most recent 100,000 cases were reported over the course of four weeks -- a little less than half of which have been reported since Sept. 1.
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September 13, 2021
Purdue Warns 300 Students, Employees Over COVID-19 Policy
About 300 Purdue University students or employees face disciplinary action for failing to comply with the school’s mandatory COVID-19 testing for those who haven’t provided proof of vaccination.
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September 13, 2021
Federal COVID Relief Could Make Indiana Schools Better — But Only For A Few Years
Indiana schools will get nearly $2.6 billion, targeted to those that serve more low-income students. The money offers an unusual test of whether spending more on education will improve outcomes for children.
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September 13, 2021
Top Lawmakers Announce Plan To Preserve School Funding Despite Student Quarantines
In a letter sent to schools Friday, Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray (R-Martinsville) and House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) outlined a plan for lawmakers and the Indiana Department of Education to ensure full funding for students learning in-person during the fall semester.
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September 12, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Works To Expand Testing, Lawmakers Plan To Preserve School Funding
The weekly roundup of COVID-19 news: Indiana’s COVID-19 cases dip slightly following Labor Day weekend. Gov. Eric Holcomb says the Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate is a "bridge too far." And the Indiana Department of Health hires a company to help expand testing as demand continues to rise.
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September 10, 2021
Indiana Business Groups Disagree With Federal Vaccine Mandate
Several major companies in Indiana including Eli Lilly, Anthem and Roche Diagnostics said they will require COVID-19 vaccines for their employees.
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September 10, 2021
Indiana Aims To Increase COVID-19 Testing Capacity, Hires New Company
The state's contract with Kentucky-based Gravity Diagnostics will run through June of next year, with an option to extend it further if needed.
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September 10, 2021
Court Hears Arguments On Emergency Powers Law's Constitutionality
The law, HEA 1123, allows the legislature to call itself into session during a public emergency -- like, for instance, the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Eric Holcomb sued, arguing the law is a breach of separation of powers.
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September 10, 2021
Holcomb Calls Biden COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate 'A Bridge Too Far'
In a statement, Gov. Eric Holcomb said he draws a line at the government imposing a mandate.
Read MoreSeptember 9, 2021
COVID-19 Patients Strain Indiana Hospitals As Virus Surges
The state Health Department’s latest report showed that the current COVID-19 surge has boosted Indiana hospitalizations to 2,513 patients as of Tuesday.
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September 7, 2021
Regenstrief Study: Black And Rural Hoosiers Hit Hardest By COVID-19 In Hospitalizations And Deaths
The study is largest of its kind, taking data from 1.8 million Hoosiers tested for COVID-19 between March 2020 and December 2020.
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September 7, 2021
Nearly A Dozen BMV Offices Temporarily Close Due To Staffing Shortage
Beginning Tuesday, almost a dozen Bureau of Motor Vehicles offices throughout the state will be closed until Oct. 2 due to staffing shortages.
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September 7, 2021
Does Your Pet Need A Vaccine Against COVID?
Some zoos, including Indianapolis, are giving animals an experimental vaccine to protect against COVID-19. But is a vaccine needed for household pets?
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September 7, 2021
Federal Unemployment Benefits Have Now Ended In Indiana
Programs including Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) ended on Sept. 4.
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September 3, 2021
CDC Eviction Moratorium Had Limited Effectiveness, Especially In Indiana
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention eviction moratorium was somewhat effective in keeping people in their homes. But Indiana’s moratorium, in place last year during the first few months of the pandemic, was far more effective.
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September 3, 2021
You Asked About Eviction And Housing Issues. We've Got Answers
IPB News has received a lot of questions about evictions and housing issues, so we reached out to housing advocates at Prosperity Indiana to get some answers.
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September 2, 2021
IU Health Puts Unvaccinated Workers On Two-Week Suspension, Announces Temporary Hold On Elective Surgeries
All IU Health inpatient elective surgeries and procedures will be suspended starting Sept. 6.
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September 2, 2021
Indiana’s Youth COVID Vaccination Remains Low As Delta Variant Sweeps Through Schools
Kids are finally back to in-person school, but the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt learning. Cases are on the rise due to the highly contagious delta variant, which has also increased the number of youth hospitalizations. Despite the surge, the vaccination rate for eligible children remains low. And a new study shows that it may not increase.
Read MoreSeptember 2, 2021
Indiana's Largest Hospital System Stopping Some Surgeries
The Indiana Hospital Association said the state's health system is strained by the delta variant's spread at a time when Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tracking shows Indiana has the country's 15th lowest rate of residents fully vaccinated.
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September 2, 2021
Pop-Up Clinic Will Offer COVID Vaccines And A 31-Day IndyGo Passes
This is the second pop-up vaccination clinic to be held at the CTC this year. In July, more than 60 people received vaccinations in four hours.
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September 1, 2021
New COVID Restrictions Not Out Of the Question In Marion County
Nearly 1,900 people in Marion County have died from COVID-19.
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September 1, 2021
Holcomb Imposes New COVID-19 Requirement On Hospitals, Avoid 'Draconian' Measures
The order, which runs through September, mandates hospitals report to the state when they're diverting patients to other facilities.
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September 1, 2021
Indiana Schools Can Stop Quarantines If Students Mask Up
The Indiana Department of Health is loosening its school COVID-19 quarantine policy -- but only for schools that are masking up.
Read MoreAugust 2021
August 31, 2021
Indiana School COVID-19 Cases Set New Record As State Pushes For More Testing
The state's latest update on COVID-19 in schools shows 5,529 newly reported student cases – a new record for the second week in a row.
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August 31, 2021
Indiana Passes 14,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths With Push From Summer Surge In Cases
With updated death data from the weekend, the Indiana Department of Health reported 69 deaths, bringing the total to 14,049.
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August 31, 2021
Holcomb Still Talking With Hospitals About Next Executive Order
Gov. Eric Holcomb didn't shed any more light Tuesday on why he extended his latest COVID-19 executive order by just two days.
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August 31, 2021
Indy Zoo Plans To Vaccinate Some Animals Against COVID-19
The Indianapolis Zoo plans to vaccinate some of its animals against COVID-19.
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August 30, 2021
Record Numbers Of COVID-19 Cases Reported In Indiana Schools
Indiana schools reported more new COVID-19 cases last week than at any previous time during the pandemic.
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August 30, 2021
Holcomb Extends COVID-19 Executive Order For Just Two Days
Gov. Eric Holcomb is again extending a limited COVID-19 executive order related to health care workers. But instead of another month, it's just for two days.
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August 30, 2021
Compliance Mixed For Indiana University's Vaccine Mandate
The latest figures released by the university show 87.4 percent of all students and employees at its campuses across the state were at least partially vaccinated as of Thursday.
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August 30, 2021
Indianapolis Symphony Sets Fall Concert Series Virus Rules
Starting Nov. 1, all patrons must prove they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to attend a performance. The symphony will use the smartphone app Bindle to verify vaccination status.
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August 29, 2021
Coronavirus: State Surpasses 5,000 New Cases, Preps Third Doses For Immunocompromised
August's new cases have continued their climb, reporting more than 5,000 new cases for the first time since Jan. 9. With the data reported Friday, Indiana has reported more than 70,000 new cases in August.
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August 27, 2021
State Health Officials: Don't Take Anti-Parasitic For Animals To Treat COVID-19
State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box and Indiana Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lindsey Weaver shut down misinformation Friday that an antibiotic to treat animals could be used against COVID-19.
Read MoreAugust 27, 2021
Health Officials Work To Get Schools Back To Reporting COVID-19 Data
Many Hoosier K-12 schools have stopped reporting COVID-19 data to the state, as required.
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August 27, 2021
Immunocompromised Hoosiers Should Get Third Dose, State Health Officials Say
State health officials are encouraging eligible Hoosiers to get a third shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. This additional dose is different from the booster shots recently announced by the Biden administration.
Read MoreAugust 26, 2021
IU Health To Suspend Half Of Elective Procedures, Amid COVID Surge
The state's largest health system says affected patients are being notified and their procedures will be rescheduled in about three weeks.
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August 26, 2021
Amid Rising COVID-19 Hospitalizations, Nurses Face Increasing Risk Of Burnout
The U.S. was dealing with a shortage of nurses even before the pandemic. Now, with COVID-19 hospitalizations rising once again, there's concern that nurses on the frontlines are at even greater risk of burnout.
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August 25, 2021
Indiana Eclipses 5,000 New COVID-19 Cases For First Time Since Jan. 9
The Indiana Department of Health reported more than 5,000 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday, crossing yet another milestone in its late summer surge.
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August 24, 2021
Expert: Indiana’s Breakthrough Cases Are On The Rise, But Vaccines Still Work
Indiana's breakthrough cases -- COVID-19 infections in people who are fully vaccinated -- are rising. But experts say while the increase in cases is concerning, it doesn’t show a lack of protection from vaccines.
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August 24, 2021
SW Indiana School Goes To Virtual Learning Due To COVID-19
Rockport Elementary School in Spencer County has entered its second week of virtual learning with more than half of its students and staff members in COVID-19 quarantine.
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August 24, 2021
Indiana COVID-19 Hospitalizations Highest Since January
Indiana's latest surge in COVID-19 infections has pushed hospitalizations and intensive care unit treatments for the illness to levels last seen in January.
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August 24, 2021
Masks No Longer Optional At Penn-Harris-Madison Schools
Earlier this month, the Penn-Harris-Madison school board adopted a mask-optional policy for the 2021-22 school year, drawing backlash from local doctors.
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August 24, 2021
Divisions Grow Among School Leaders, Parents As Pandemic Continues
Local school board members are on the frontline of what is a health crisis at its core. Some school board members and superintendents across the state speak of a tough spot they’re put in. Some convey a message of confidence that things will be under control soon but others question why public health officials are not making these decisions in the middle of a resurging global pandemic.
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August 23, 2021
Indiana Chamber Campaign Recognizes Employers With High Vaccination Rates
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Wellness Council of Indiana launched a campaign Monday to recognize employers that encourage their workers to get vaccinated.
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August 23, 2021
Indiana Schools Set New Cases Record, More Than 3,000 Cases In Last Week
The Indiana Department of Health's school cases dashboard updates every Monday. This week it recorded 3,504 new student COVID-19 cases -- 3,028 of which were reported in the last seven days.
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August 23, 2021
In Light Of Rising Quarantines, TSC Board Votes 6-1 To Mandate Masks
The vote comes after the county health department released numbers showing the district had a disproportionately high number of students quarantined because of exposure to COVID-19.
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August 22, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana To Expand Testing Sites, New COVID-19 Cases Top 4,000 In A Day
Indiana is calling up National Guard members to help local health departments with COVID-19 testing. And the Indiana Department of Health reported more than 4,000 new COVID-19 cases Friday, crossing yet another milestone in its late summer surge.
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August 20, 2021
Doctors: To Combat Increase In Pediatric Hospitalizations, Wear Masks In Schools
Indiana, like many states in the U.S., is experiencing a rapid increase in the number of children in hospitals due to COVID-19. One in 38 kids with a positive COVID-19 test are hospitalized in Indiana.
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August 20, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 4,000 New COVID-19 Cases In Return To Late-January Metrics
The Indiana Department of Health reported more than 4,000 new COVID-19 cases Friday, crossing yet another milestone in its late summer surge.
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August 20, 2021
Ball State: 62 Percent Of Students Vaccinated Ahead Of Monday Class Start
Ball State, which highly encourages the COVID-19 vaccine, says about 62 percent of all registered students and 73 percent of employees report being vaccinated, as of earlier this week.
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August 20, 2021
Colleges Preparing Nursing Graduates For Stressful Work Environment
The COVID-19 pandemic has been stressful on everyone, but health care workers may be affected more than anyone. Some nurses are burnt out and planning to leave the profession. Meanwhile, colleges are preparing new graduates to take their place — and deal with the pressures of the job.
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August 20, 2021
Indiana Sees 62,000 Wasted COVID-19 Doses As Shot Rate Slows
Indiana health officials have counted about 62,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines being tossed out in recent months as the number of people seeking the shots has fallen drastically.
Read MoreAugust 19, 2021
Indiana Hospitals Urge Vaccinations As COVID Cases Increase
The statewide patient count -- which two weeks ago was fewer than 1,000 -- prompted the Indiana Hospital Association to issue a warning and call for those who aren't yet vaccinated to do so immediately.
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August 18, 2021
Most Marion County School Districts Require Masks For All As COVID-19 Student Infections Increase
Some Marion County school districts will let parents decide if their student wears a mask or not, but most are requiring masks for all people inside schools.
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August 18, 2021
Fort Wayne Mayor Says He Has Mild COVID-19 Illness
Mayor Tom Henry's office said he would be isolated for several days and remain in communication from home with other officials in Indiana’s second-largest city.
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August 17, 2021
Holcomb Backing Indiana Schools On Face Mask Mandates
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb gave his support Monday to the growing number of school districts across the state issuing mask mandates for students and staff as they try to head off more COVID-19 outbreaks.
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August 17, 2021
Hospital Cyberattacks: More Frequent, Severe As Pandemic Continues
On Aug. 4, Indianapolis-based Eskenazi Health experienced a ransomware attack, halting access to electronic medical records and requiring ambulances to bypass the city's safety net hospital.
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August 16, 2021
Indiana Hits 800,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases, Amid August Surge
From mid-April to July, Indiana averaged more than 600 new cases per day, but in the first half of August, it has averaged more than 2,000 new cases per day.
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August 16, 2021
More Indiana Schools Requiring Masks As COVID-19 Cases Climb
In the last week, 1,452 new COVID-19 cases were recorded among K-12 students in the state -- four times more than the previous week, according to Monday's update posted on the Indiana Department of Health's coronavirus dashboard.
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August 16, 2021
Indiana Agency Struggling With Unemployment Appeals Backlog
The agency started August with more than 17,000 pending appeals after peaking with nearly 22,000 such appeals in January. Only California, Texas and Virginia -- states with much larger populations -- had more unsettled cases.
Read MoreAugust 15, 2021
Coronavirus: School Disruptions Rise, New COVID-19 Cases Top 3,000 In A Day
The Indiana Department of Health reports more than 300 COVID-19 cases early in the school year. The state surpasses 3 million fully vaccinated, as new cases surpass 3,000 in a day for the first time since January. Gov. Eric Holcomb maintains that he will not reimpose restrictions.
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August 13, 2021
Indiana Reaches 3 Million Fully Inoculated, As Delta Strain Drives New Vaccinations
Indiana surpassed 3 million fully vaccinated Hoosiers Friday. The milestone comes as the state sees a slight uptick -- a little less than double -- in the weekly average of Hoosiers getting their initial shot.
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August 13, 2021
Early COVID-19 Disruptions Prompt Concerns About The Future Of This School Year
Scott County School District 1 went virtual just one week into the new school year, citing an explosive outbreak of COVID-19 cases among students.
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August 13, 2021
With COVID-19 Numbers Worsening, Holcomb's Position Remains Unchanged
Indiana is reporting more cases per day of COVID-19 than any time since January, when the state’s vaccine rollout began.
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August 12, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 3,000 New COVID-19 Cases, First Time Since January
This is the first time since late-January -- the beginning of Indiana's vaccine rollout -- the state has reported this many cases in a single day.
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August 12, 2021
Supreme Court Justice Won't Block Indiana University Vaccine Mandate
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett on Thursday refused to block a plan by Indiana University to require students and employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
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August 12, 2021
Back to School: Combating Misinformation On How To Keep Children Safe
Across Indiana and the country, each school district is faced with important decisions on COVID-19 safety protocols. But misinformation, politics and emotions are sometimes getting in the way, leaving parents and school officials with confusing, mixed messages.
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August 12, 2021
Tippecanoe School Corporation Parents 'Constantly Worried' About COVID-19 As Board Stands Firm On Optional Masking
The Tippecanoe School Corporation's optional mask policy for students remained in place after the school board heard hours of public comment from a packed room of parents at a board meeting Wednesday.
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August 11, 2021
State Officials Say In-Person Is Best As COVID-19 Forces Some Schools To Go Remote – Again
The state's analysis of instructional mode and assessment data suggests students going to school remotely didn't make academic progress at the same rate as their in-person peers.
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August 11, 2021
Indiana Virus Spread Surges While Many Remain Unvaccinated
Nearly 1,300 Hoosiers were hospitalized with COVID-19 as of Tuesday, according to the most recent data released by the state health department. Of those, 305 were in intensive care, the most since Feb. 5.
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August 10, 2021
Hotel For People Experiencing Homelessness Becomes Bridge
Federal COVID-19 relief money allowed Indianapolis to house people without shelter in a hotel, aiding in housing-first efforts.
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August 10, 2021
Hoosier Schools Report More Than 300 New Student Cases of COVID-19
According to the Indiana Department of Health's COVID-19 dashboard, Hoosier schools have reported more than 300 new cases in the last week alone.
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August 10, 2021
Students Cooperate, Parents Protest As Lafayette School Corp. Moves Forward With Mask Mandate
Lafayette School Corporation officials say students cooperated with a mask mandate Tuesday on the first day of school.
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August 6, 2021
Students Ask Supreme Court To Block IU's Vaccine Mandate
The case is not the first time a coronavirus-related issue has been before the court, but it is the first time it has been asked to weigh in on a vaccine mandate.
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August 6, 2021
Ball State, Valparaiso U Take Steps To Reduce COVID-19
Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns announced in a message to faculty that masks would be required in all university buildings beginning Monday. And Valparaiso University is requiring all students, faculty and staff to receive the COVID-19 vaccine before the start of the fall semester.
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August 5, 2021
Delta Is Causing A Surge In New COVID Cases In Indiana. Here’s What You Need To Know
The COVID-19 delta variant accounts for more than 80 percent of sampled positive cases in Indiana. State health officials have pointed to the variant as the main driver of Indiana’s recent climb in new cases and hospitalizations.
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August 4, 2021
Eligibility Guidelines Tight Under New CDC Eviction Moratorium
In a surprise to many, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a new eviction moratorium Tuesday, targeting areas of the country that are at higher risk for spread of COVID-19.
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August 4, 2021
Holcomb Not Reimposing Mask Mandate In State Government Buildings
Gov. Eric Holcomb isn't reimposing a mask wearing mandate in state government buildings despite new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance.
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August 3, 2021
South Bend Schools Reverse Course, To Require Masks For All
All students, teachers and visitors to South Bend schools will be required to wear masks under a coronavirus policy officials revised a week after requiring only elementary school students to wear masks.
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August 3, 2021
Appeals Court Upholds Indiana University’s Vaccine Mandate
A federal appeals court ruled Monday that Indiana University can proceed with its plan to require students and employees to get vaccinated for COVID-19.
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August 2, 2021
Federal Courts In Indiana Reimpose Mask Mandates Amid COVID-19 Surge
Indiana's federal courts have been without mask mandates for months. But citing increasing spread and new guidance from the CDC, courts in the northern and southern district have reissued face covering requirements.
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August 1, 2021
Coronavirus: Cases On Rise Again, Holcomb Doesn’t Reimpose Statewide Restrictions
Gov. Eric Holcomb doesn't reimpose statewide restrictions. Indiana Department of Health officials strongly urge masks in school, but aren't requiring them. And a few local governments begin reinstating mask requirements.
Read MoreJuly 2021
July 30, 2021
Purdue University And City of West Lafayette Move To Reinstate Masks As COVID-19 Cases Spike
In their decision, Purdue officials cited both new guidance from the CDC and concerns about local hospital capacity.
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July 30, 2021
State Health Officials 'Strongly Urge' Masks In Schools, But Won't Require Them
State health officials say they're not mandating masks in K-12 schools amid a surge of COVID-19 in part because local officials told them they want to make those decisions.
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July 30, 2021
Holcomb Convinced State Fair Will Be Safe Amid COVID-19 Surge
The Indiana State Fair typically draws nearly 1 million people over its run of less than three weeks. And the state is in the middle of the sharpest spike in daily COVID-19 cases since the pandemic's earliest days.
Read MoreJuly 29, 2021
Indianapolis Public Schools Require Masks For All As Marion County Districts Reassess COVID-19 Plans
Some Marion County school districts will let parents decide if their student wears a mask or not, but others are requiring masks for all people inside schools.
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July 29, 2021
More Indiana Counties Join Second-Highest Virus Risk Group
The state's new coronavirus cases and hospitalizations for COVID-19 rebounded this month to levels last seen in May, as the delta variant continues spreading throughout the country, particularly in places with low vaccination rates, such as Indiana.
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July 28, 2021
COVID-19 Outbreak Shuts Down Indiana Law Enforcement Academy
The Indiana Law Enforcement Academy -- which trains the majority of police across the state -- temporarily halted operations because of a COVID-19 outbreak.
Read MoreJuly 28, 2021
South Bend Schools To Require Masks For Elementary Students
Students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade will be required to wear masks indoors, while face coverings will not be required but strongly encouraged among unvaccinated staff and middle and high school students
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July 27, 2021
Holcomb: No Statewide School Mask Mandates Amid COVID-19 Surge
Gov. Eric Holcomb won’t reimpose any mask mandates in Hoosier schools, only urging students, teachers and staff to mask up amid a surge of COVID-19.
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July 27, 2021
The CDC Updated Its COVID-19 Guidance. Here's What You Need To Know
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday reversed course on its mask guidance, once again suggesting all individuals wear masks indoors in areas where COVID-19 cases are surging.
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July 27, 2021
Marion County Public Health Department Urges Wearing Masks Indoors
The Marion County Public Health Department recommended Tuesday that all residents of the county including Indianapolis wear masks in indoor public spaces, regardless of vaccination status.
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July 26, 2021
7 Months Later, Indiana Governor To Hold Inaugural Gala
Postponed all this time due to COVID-19, the "boots and black tie" inaugural ball will be held on Saturday, Aug. 21, at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis.
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July 26, 2021
Can Tutoring Help Students Recover From The Pandemic? This Indy School Hopes So
As students begin to transition back to school following two academic years riddled with classroom disruptions, districts are flush with federal cash. To help the tens of thousands of students who have fallen behind academically, some districts, including KIPP Indy Schools, have turned to tutoring services.
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July 23, 2021
Former Notre Dame Student Sues School, Seeks Tuition, Fee Refund For Online Classes During Pandemic
The spring semester ran from January to June 2020, but Notre Dame moved all classes online in mid-March due to the pandemic.
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July 22, 2021
Local Church Plans Return to In-Person Services
An eastside Indianapolis church with nearly 11,000 members has been busy during the pandemic to maintain accessibility to their worshippers.
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July 21, 2021
After Reaching Pandemic Lows, Indiana COVID-19 Cases Pick Back Up
Wednesday was the second day in a row with more than 700 new cases reported – the highest since May 21.
Read MoreJuly 21, 2021
No Face Masks In Class? Here’s Marion County Schools' COVID-19 Protocols
Some Marion County school districts will let parents decide if their student wears a mask or not, but others are requiring masks for unvaccinated students.
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July 21, 2021
Community Leaders Reject Invitation From IU Health to Discuss Death of Moore
Leaders of local civil rights advocacy groups declined an invitation from IU Health officials to discuss the death of Dr. Susan Moore and racial disparities in health care.
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July 20, 2021
Former Surgeon General Says CDC's Relaxing Of Mask Guidance Is Premature
Former United States Surgeon General and Indiana state health commissioner Jerome Adams said the CDC's easing of mask restrictions is premature.
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July 20, 2021
NCAA Hit Hard By Pandemic, Spent $68 Million On Legal Fees
Revenue was down more than 50 percent over the previous year, from more than $1.1 billion to just over $520 million.
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July 20, 2021
Purdue: 60% Of Students Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19
Vaccination rates for Purdue students are about twice the rate compared with individuals ages 16-29 across the state, the school said.
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July 19, 2021
Federal Judge Affirms Indiana University Vaccine Requirement
A ruling from a judge in South Bend has rejected a request from eight IU students who sought to block the COVID-19 vaccine requirement.
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July 19, 2021
Attendance Dropped At 70% Of Indiana Schools Amid The Pandemic
About 70 percent of Indiana schools had lower attendance rates in 2020-21 compared to the previous year, a sign of the toll that the fragmented education during the pandemic took on students.
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July 16, 2021
AP Source: Colts Among 4 NFL Teams That Remain Under 50% Vaccinated
Washington, Indianapolis, Arizona and the Los Angeles Chargers had the four lowest COVID-19 vaccination rates in the league as of Thursday, according to the source familiar with the vaccination rates.
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July 16, 2021
Pandemic, Economic Uncertainty Have Led to Increased Gun Violence, Expert Says
Indianapolis has seen record homicides so far this year, which experts say is linked to pandemic-based stress and economic uncertainty. Since January, more than 130 people have been killed in the city compared to about 100 at this time last year.
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July 15, 2021
The COVID-19 Pandemic Caused A Big Drop In Coal Production In Indiana
Coal production dropped by nearly 37 percent last year -- more than any of the other top coal mining states.
Read MoreJuly 15, 2021
Thousands Of Area Families Benefit From Rental Assistance Program
Officials say thousands of Marion County residents benefitted from the city’s rental assistance program in the last year.
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July 14, 2021
You Asked: Will The Pandemic Have Lasting Effects On Child Development?
Side Effects Public Media recently received questions from audience members through our texting group, the Midwest Checkup, about how the changes wrought by the pandemic may affect child development and talked to experts to provide some answers.
Read MoreJuly 14, 2021
Indiana Releases 2021 ILEARN Data, Highlights Academic Impact Of COVID-19
Results published by officials during the Indiana State Board of Education meeting Wednesday confirm the expected drop in scores on the state's ILEARN exam.
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July 12, 2021
As Pandemic-Year ILEARN Results Loom, Some Parents Question Value Of Standardized Tests
Early reports of ILEARN results indicate a significant drop in math and English scores.
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July 9, 2021
Schools Must Decide On COVID-19 Restrictions After State Mandates End
Indiana is no longer requiring K-12 schools to implement any COVID-19 precautions or restrictions. State health officials say those decisions must now be made at the local level.
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July 9, 2021
State Officials Sound Alarm On COVID-19 Delta Variant, But Plan No More Restrictions
Indiana's COVID-19 positivity rate was reported at its lowest level since the pandemic began just over a week ago. Since then, the rate has jumped 52 percent.
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July 9, 2021
New Study Highlights Underlying Flaws In COVID-19 Antiviral Drug Clinical Trials
Clinical trials for antiviral drugs to treat COVID-19 have produced inconsistent results.
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July 9, 2021
As Iowa Opens Up, COVID-19 Vaccination Rates Continue To Slow
In recent weeks, demand for the COVID-19 vaccine in Iowa has declined sharply, but the number of Iowans who have had at least one shot hasn't even reached 70 percent. That's raising concern among public health officials.
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July 5, 2021
Entertainers Cope With Changes Brought By Pandemic
Terre Haute and other places are slowly beginning to open back up, and all musicians and entertainers have been waiting for this since the lockdown in 2020.
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July 2, 2021
Overburdened Children's Mental Health Professionals Feel COVID's Strain
Months long waitlists, out-of-pocket costs and a burgeoning mental health crisis is pushing care out of reach for some families.
Read MoreJune 2021
June 30, 2021
Holcomb Extends COVID-19 Emergency Through July
Indiana’s COVID-19 public health emergency isn’t over yet. Gov. Eric Holcomb extended the emergency declaration another month Wednesday, through the end of July.
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June 30, 2021
Mental Health Crisis: Children At Breaking Point During COVID
Across the Midwest, there are not nearly enough psychiatrists, therapists or direct-care staff to treat a rising tide of young people spiraling into crisis. For these families, the strain can seem unbearable. It’s a story echoed across much of the country. This was true even before COVID-19.
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June 29, 2021
Marion County To End COVID-19 Restrictions
Indianapolis plans to lift all COVID-19 restrictions, including mask mandates and capacity limitations.
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June 27, 2021
Concerns Linger Even After Final Extension Of CDC's Eviction Moratorium
The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention recently made one last extension to the nationwide eviction moratorium.
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June 25, 2021
EXPLAINER: How Indiana Evictions Could Surge Post-Moratorium
A federal freeze on most evictions that was enacted last year is scheduled to expire July 31, after the Biden administration extended the date by a month.
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June 22, 2021
Marion County Pushes To Vaccinate More Residents Against COVID-19
In Marion County 39 percent residents have received the COVID-19 shot.
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June 22, 2021
Group Of Students Sues Indiana University Over COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate
The lawsuit, filed Monday, alleges that IU's vaccine requirement goes against the FDA's emergency use authorization of the vaccines and violates CDC guidelines and "modern medical ethics."
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June 21, 2021
Indiana's Confirmed COVID-19 Cases Hit Record-Breaking Lows
So far in June, Indiana has only broken double digits once, with 11 confirmed deaths reported on June 4.
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June 21, 2021
ISU Opts To Encourage, But Not Mandate COVID-19 Vaccine
Indiana State University will encourage but not require COVID-19 vaccinations for students and employees when they return to the western Indiana school for the upcoming academic year.
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June 21, 2021
Holcomb Still Opposed To Monetary Incentives For COVID-19 Vaccinations
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he's still opposed to the state providing financial incentives as a way to encourage more Hoosiers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
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June 19, 2021
Coronavirus: Emergency Powers Law In Court, Group Sues To Keep Federal Jobless Benefits
The Indiana Department of Health reported 51 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 13,375 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 1,600 new cases in the last week -- not including 308 historical cases added to the state's count Saturday.
Read MoreJune 18, 2021
Nearly Half Of Eligible Hoosiers Now Vaccinated For COVID-19
Indiana's COVID-19 vaccination rate has continued to stagnate, with about 10,500 Hoosiers getting the vaccine each day, according to the state's seven-day average as of Thursday.
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June 17, 2021
Holcomb Opposes COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates By Public Schools, Universities
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he still strongly encourages people to get the vaccine. Indiana ranks 36th in the country for the percentage of its population fully vaccinated.
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June 15, 2021
Grants Available for Artist Restart Program, Mental Health Services
Applications for Keep Indy Creating grants are open through Aug. 22. Among the opportunities are Artist Restart Grants intended to help artists restart their careers, and grants to address mental health and wellness.
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June 15, 2021
IPS Asks Families How To Spend Millions In Federal Funding
Indianapolis Public Schools is asking for input on how it will spend some of its more than $200 million in federal funding to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in schools.
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June 15, 2021
Indianapolis's Rental Assistance Program Still Going Strong
To date nearly 20,000 households impacted financially by COVID-19 have had their rent paid by the city.
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June 14, 2021
Indiana Rushes To Spend Virus Relief Aid On New Jobs Program
In an example of how states are casting for ways to spend the federal influx, Indiana's budget negotiators wrote in $75 million for the Career Accelerator Program -- nearly triple the $27 million going to a 2 percent increase for the state's higher education system.
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June 13, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Exceeds Tax Collection Expectations, To End OptumServe Testing Sites
The Indiana Department of Health reported 57 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 13,324 confirmed deaths.
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June 10, 2021
Indiana Closing OptumServe COVID-19 Testing Sites After June, Citing Low Demand
Indiana is closing its OptumServe COVID-19 testing sites at the end of June. The sites, set up early in the pandemic, have provided more than 541,000 free tests since May of last year.
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June 8, 2021
Advocacy Group Urges Targeted Financial Aid From Congress, Cites Uneven Hotel Recovery
The recent increase in travel is welcome news for the industry, but many worry whether business travel will return when vacations wind down after Labor Day.
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June 8, 2021
Health Officials Worry About Low Vaccination Rates
Public health experts say it is unlikely Indiana will reach a 70 percent vaccination rate by July 4 with just weeks until the deadline.
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June 7, 2021
City-County Council Ratifies Orders To End Mask Mandates For Some
The council passed a proposal to ratify public health orders, including increased capacity for businesses -- many places to 75 percent.
Read MoreJune 7, 2021
COVID Disparity Grants Announced For Community Groups
Community organizations addressing COVID-19 response and recovery in Indianapolis will receive grants from a program investing $1 million to address health disparities.
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June 7, 2021
Indiana Sees 11% Drop In Preschoolers With Disabilities During Pandemic
The number of Indiana students enrolled in programs for disabilities declined this school year, the first dip in at least four years and the latest sign of the disruption caused by the pandemic. About 14,000 preschoolers had diagnosed disabilities, down more than 11%.
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June 6, 2021
Coronavirus: Schools Get Learning Loss Funds, IU Rolls Back Vaccine Requirement Proof
The Indiana Department of Health reported 69 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 13,267 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 3,200 new cases in the last week the fewest reported in a single week since July 2020.
Read MoreJune 3, 2021
Indiana University Offering Prizes For Vaccine Documentation
IU's incentive program will have at least two student winners and one employee winner selected for three weeks beginning June 10 at each of its campuses across the state.
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June 2, 2021
Marion County Prepared To Relax Restrictions And Increase Vaccinations
So far, about a third of Marion County residents are vaccinated, but city officials want to have half of the county with shots by July 4.
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June 2, 2021
DOC Continues To Offer COVID-19 Vaccines In State Facilities
While Indiana lags behind many other states in the rate of COVID-19 vaccinations, incarcerated Hoosiers are accepting the vaccine at a higher rate than the general population.
Read MoreJune 2, 2021
IU Health Requiring COVID-19 Vaccinations For All Employees
Indiana University Health will require all its doctors, nurses and other employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Sept. 1.
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June 1, 2021
IU Amends Vaccine Requirement, Will No Longer Mandate Proof Of COVID-19 Vaccine
This policy change comes after several GOP legislators and Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita argued state law does not allow the university to make such a requirement.
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June 1, 2021
Federal Courthouse Mask, Distancing Policies Updated
Fully vaccinated individuals will be allowed to enter public areas of the four courthouses of the federal Southern District of Indiana without wearing a face covering or observing social distancing.
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June 1, 2021
Multilingual Vaccination Hotline Announced For Marion County
A new COVID-19 vaccine registration hotline is intended to help increase vaccinations amongst all Marion County residents.
Read MoreMay 2021
May 30, 2021
Coronavirus: GOP Opposition To IU Mandate Grows, Holcomb Sets End To Public Emergency
The Indiana Department of Health reported 67 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 13,203 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 3,500 new cases in the last week -- the fewest reported in a single week since July 2020.
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May 28, 2021
Holcomb Sets End Date For COVID-19 Public Health Emergency
Gov. Eric Holcomb is ending the majority of remaining COVID-19 restrictions Tuesday and all state executive orders issued during the pandemic will be repealed at the end of June.
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May 27, 2021
Purdue University Named In AG's Advisory Opinion On Vaccine Document Requirements
In his advisory opinion, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita said that because public universities are "arms of the state" they are included in a new state law banning state and local units from requiring an immunization passport.
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May 26, 2021
AG Rokita: Indiana University COVID-19 Vaccine Policy Violates State Law
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita issued an advisory opinion on the issue Wednesday, prompted by requests from Republican lawmakers who oppose the university policy.
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May 25, 2021
Indiana House Lawmakers Ask Governor To Stop IU's COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate
The group of GOP lawmakers sent a letter to Gov. Eric Holcomb Tuesday. In it, they say students will drop classes, be ostracized from campus and employees will be fired if IU is allowed to mandate the vaccine.
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May 24, 2021
Former Northern Indiana Mayor Dies After COVID-19 Illness
Former Elkhart Mayor Dave Miller died Sunday at age 62. Miller was the citys mayor from 2000 through 2007.
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May 24, 2021
Indiana Lottery Sees Big Ticket Sales Jump Amid Pandemic
Sales for daily draw and big jackpot games such as Powerball and Mega Millions are expected to finish 19 percent ahead of last year.
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May 23, 2021
Coronavirus: IU, Notre Dame Mandate Vaccines, State Ending Federal Unemployment
The Indiana Department of Health reported 73 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 13,136 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 4,700 new cases in the last week.
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May 21, 2021
'We're Sitting Ducks': Hoosiers Worry About The End Of Federal Unemployment Benefits
In a little less than a month, Indiana will stop payments of all federal unemployment benefits in hopes it will force workers to fill vacant jobs.
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May 21, 2021
Community Organizations Criticize IU Health's Response to Dr. Susan Moore's Death
An external review found that while the medical care Dr. Susan Moore received did not cause her death, cultural competence was not practiced by all providers and several lacked awareness of implicit racial bias in Moores care.
Read MoreMay 21, 2021
Indiana University Requiring COVID-19 Vaccination Shots
IU officials announced the requirement for its campuses across the state Friday, saying it will allow the university to lift most coronavirus-related restrictions such as face masks and physical distancing.
Read MoreMay 21, 2021
Notre Dame To Require COVID-19 Vaccine For Faculty And Staff In Fall 2021
The University of Notre Dame will require all faculty and staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 before the start of the fall semester.
Read MoreMay 19, 2021
Holcomb Says No To Cash Incentives For COVID-19 Vaccinations
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced a $1 million lottery system for vaccinated Ohioans last week, using federal COVID-19 relief dollars.
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May 17, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Opens Vaccines To 12+, Legislature Overrides Local Health Orders Veto
The Indiana Department of Health reported 60 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 13,063 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 5,700 new cases in the last week.
Read MoreMay 15, 2021
2 Indiana Counties Lifting Mask Orders With New CDC Guidance
The St. Joseph County order covering South Bend was rescinded as of Thursday night, while the Monroe County order including Bloomington will end Monday morning.
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May 15, 2021
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Opens Gates To Fans In May, The First Time Since 2019
Last year COVID-19 restrictions forced IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to move the GMR Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500 from May to later in the year. The races eventually ran without fans in the stands.
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May 14, 2021
State Health Officials Working To Counter COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy
Indiana is one of the worst states in the country in the percentage of its population vaccinated against the virus -- despite more than 1,000 vaccination sites statewide.
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May 13, 2021
Republican Legislative Leaders Applaud Unemployment System Change
As Hoosiers wait to find out whether the governor will cut off extra federal unemployment benefits, Republican legislative leaders say it's time to get the system back to the pre-pandemic normal.
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May 13, 2021
How Is Indiana Distributing COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened vaccine registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. Registration was opened to all Hoosiers 16 and older on March 31 and the state expanded eligibility to Hoosiers 12 and older on May 13.
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May 12, 2021
IU Health Review Of Susan Moore's Death Says She Received Adequate Care, But Lack Of 'Empathy' And 'Compassion'
An external review on the death of a Black female doctor found the medical management and technical care she received from Indiana University Health did not contribute to her death. But the review also found a lack of empathy and compassion in the delivery of her care, according to a news release from IU Health on Wednesday.
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May 12, 2021
Indiana Distributing More Pfizer Doses To Counties To Prep For 12+ Vaccine Eligibility
The state vaccination website will begin scheduling appointments for that age group at 8 a.m. Thursday, following federal approval made Wednesday afternoon.
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May 12, 2021
Fort Wayne Teachers Getting Bonuses For Work During Pandemic
Teachers and other employees of the Fort Wayne Community Schools will receive payments of up to $2,000 for working during the pandemic, the school board has voted.
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May 11, 2021
Indiana Health Department To Expand Vaccine Eligibility To 12 And Older Thursday, Pending CDC Recommendation
The Indiana Department of Health will expand COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to 12- to 15-year-olds starting Thursday, pending recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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May 11, 2021
Indianapolis Officials Back Mask Mandate, Capacity Limits
The Democratic-controlled Indianapolis council voted 19-5 along party lines Monday night to keep the mask mandate and rules that restrict restaurants to 75 percent indoor capacity and bars to 50 percent capacity.
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May 11, 2021
Restaurants' Relaxed Alcohol Carryout Policies Ending After June
Gov. Eric Holcomb rescinded several executive orders Tuesday he issued last year to help businesses deal with the pandemic's restrictions.
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May 10, 2021
Eli Lilly To Start Bringing Remote Workers Back To Indianapolis Headquarters
Global pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly is planning for employees working from home to return to their Indianapolis offices this summer. Officials say this is another step towards businesses returning to what operations were before the pandemic.
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May 10, 2021
Following The Shot: How One Dose Of Moderna Vaccine Made It Into An Arm In Southern Indiana
Nearly 110 million Americans have been vaccinated against COVID-19. And delivering each dose requires a complex chain of events. This is the story of one of those doses -- and how it ended up in Archie Thomas's left arm at a church recreation center in Evansville, Indiana.
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May 10, 2021
Advocates Say Nursing Home Issues Haven't Disappeared Despite COVID-19 Improvement
Advocates for older Hoosiers say while Indiana nursing homes have emerged from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still ongoing issues that can't be ignored.
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May 10, 2021
Local Emergency Health Rules Voided Without Local Body Approval After Veto Override
Local health officials across Indiana can no longer impose emergency rules stricter than the states after Republicans overrode the governors veto. Local legislative bodies county commissioners or city councils will have to enact those restrictions instead.
Read MoreMay 9, 2021
Coronavirus: Holcomb Vetoes Local Health Orders Bill, Indiana Hits 2M Fully Vaccinated
The Indiana Department of Health reported 66 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 13,003 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 7,000 new cases in the last week.
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May 9, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 13,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths, Continues Exponential Slowdown
Indiana surpassed 13,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths Sunday. The state's rate of newly reported deaths has continued its exponential slowdown since the state began vaccine distribution.
Read MoreMay 8, 2021
Critics Say Indiana COVID-19 Law Allows Nursing Home Neglect
Advocates for nursing home residents say they worry a new Indiana law expanding COVID-19 liability protections for health care providers will effectively block many lawsuits over neglect and substandard treatment that weren't caused by the pandemic.
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May 7, 2021
Ball State Wants To Return To 'Traditional' Campus Plan This Fall, But Some COVID Precautions Continue
Ball State University wants to return to education as usual next fall. Officials have adopted a plan that can change if COVID-19 infections spike again.
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May 7, 2021
Job Search Requirement For Unemployment To Return, Federal Benefits On Chopping Block
Gov. Eric Holcomb said he will require out-of-work Hoosiers to actively search for jobs to remain on unemployment benefits.
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May 7, 2021
As Demand For COVID-19 Vaccinations Drops, One Iowa Community Nears Herd Immunity
Around the nation, demand for the vaccine overall is decreasing. But many Native American tribal communities are ahead of the rest of the country when it comes to getting COVID-19 vaccines. And, one place in Iowa is getting close to herd immunity.
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May 6, 2021
Vaccine Hesitancy Is A Barrier To Herd Immunity, But There's More To It Than Distrust
The demand for COVID-19 vaccines in Indiana is slowing down, even as the state hits 2 million fully vaccinated Hoosiers.
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May 5, 2021
Eli Lilly Donates COVID-19 Treatments To India, Other Countries Around The World
The Indianapolis-based global company is donating COVID-19 treatments to help severe cases in India and other countries struggling with the virus.
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May 5, 2021
Indiana Reaches 2 Million Fully Vaccinated Hoosiers, Still Lags Slightly In Midwest
Health officials said last week they are working with the Indiana Rural Health Association to help improve vaccination rates.
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May 4, 2021
Holcomb Vetoes Bill Tying Hands Of Local Health Officials During Emergencies
The legislation would have barred local health officials from issuing emergency rules that went any further than restrictions created by the state.
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May 4, 2021
Indiana State Fair Returning After 2020 Pandemic Cancelation
Indiana State Fair officials said they have been actively working with the Indiana Department of Health on planning the fair's return a year after it was called off during the pandemic.
Read MoreMay 3, 2021
Face Masks Still Being Required At Indiana Casinos
The casino rules require customers to wear masks except when eating, drinking or smoking while seated at a slot machine, bar or restaurant table.
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May 2, 2021
Coronavirus: State Vaccine Clinics To Take Walk-Ins, New Lawsuits For Emergency Powers
The Indiana Department of Health reported 73 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 12,937 confirmed deaths. The state also reported nearly 8,000 new cases in the last week.
April 2021
April 29, 2021
Indiana Watching Counties Near Michigan For COVID-19 Risk
The counties near Indianas border with Michigan are showing persistent risk of coronavirus spread, with top state health officials saying Wednesday they were trying to turn around declining COVID-19 vaccination rates.
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April 28, 2021
Health Officials Outline Future Consequences For Indiana Vaccine Hesitancy
Indiana is encouraging state vaccine providers to accept walk-ins and working to get primary care providers access to vaccines.
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April 28, 2021
IDOH Asks State Vaccine Clinics To Accept Walk-In Appointments As Demand Drops
With demand for the COVID-19 vaccine dropping, the Indiana Department of Health is asking state vaccine providers to accept walk-in appointments.
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April 27, 2021
Indiana COVID-19 Hospitalizations Highest Since Mid-February
The Indiana Department of Health's latest COVID-19 tracking update showed that Indiana's hospitals were treating 955 people for coronavirus illnesses as of Monday.
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April 27, 2021
Indiana Uses Emergency Alert System For Mass COVID-19 Vaccination Sites
Hoosiers in central Indiana got the alert on their phones Tuesday that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway vaccine clinic is open to walk-ins through Thursday.
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April 27, 2021
Slipping COVID-19 Treatment Demand Hits Eli Lilly Forecast
Overall, Lilly's net income fell 7 percent in the quarter to $1.35 billion, with adjusted earnings totaling $1.87 per share. Revenue grew 16 percent to $6.81 billion.
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April 26, 2021
COVID Community Grants Application Deadline Approaches
Applications for COVID-19 community grants being offered through the city are due this week and the city is offering help to apply.
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April 26, 2021
Third of Hoosiers 16 and older fully vaccinated for COVID-19
The Indiana Department of Health said that about 1.74 million Hoosiers -- or 32 percent of Indiana's roughly 5.3 million residents ages 16 and older -- have been fully vaccinated.
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April 23, 2021
Indiana Lifts Pause On Johnson & Johnson Vaccines Follows FDA, CDC
The Indiana Department of Health announced Friday it is lifting its pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, following federal guidance.
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April 22, 2021
Searching For Footing In A Life Nearly Extinguished By COVID
Like so many health care workers battered by the pandemic, Kari Wegg is searching for footing in a life after COVID. But the scars across her chest and neck are constant reminders that it takes much more than a shot in the arm to get there.
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April 22, 2021
Indiana Lawmakers Enact COVID-19 Vaccine Passport Ban At 2021 Session's Close
Hoosier lawmakers passed a ban on COVID-19 vaccine passports in the waning hours of the 2021 legislative session Thursday.
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April 22, 2021
Marion County Officials Provide COVID-19 Update Post NCAA Tournament
COVID-19 cases in Marion County have started to plateau following a small surge over the past month.
Read MoreApril 22, 2021
Indiana Bill Approved To Ban Government Vaccine Passports
The Republican-dominated House and Senate voted Thursday by wide margins to approve a wide-ranging health care and insurance bill that included the vaccine passport ban.
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April 21, 2021
Local Health Officials Hands Bound By State Lawmakers Reacting To COVID-19 Pandemic
It's going to be a lot harder for local health officials to create and enforce temporary restrictions during a public emergency under legislation approved Wednesday.
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April 21, 2021
Indianapolis 500 To Allow 40 Percent Capacity, Highest-Attended U.S. Sporting Event In A Year
Even with the reduced number of fans -- roughly 135,000 -- it will be the largest in-person sporting event since the start of the pandemic.
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April 20, 2021
Lawmakers Reach Deal Giving Local Officials Say Over Health Orders
Republican supporters say the proposal is meant to provide a "check and balance" protecting the rights of business owners.
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April 19, 2021
Northern Indiana Amish See Hurdles Getting COVID-19 Vaccines
In Elkhart County, a direct effort to get shots to the Amish has yet to launch, according to county Health Officer Dr. Bethany Wait.
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April 19, 2021
Indiana Expanding Medicaid Coverage To New Mothers 12 Months Postpartum
Medicaid coverage for Hoosier women during their pregnancy typically lasts until 60 days after they give birth, but that was extended through the most recent federal COVID-19 relief package.
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April 19, 2021
Anxiety is Expected as Life Starts to Return to Normal From Pandemic
As more Americans are vaccinated for COVID-19, many states are beginning to lift restrictions on gatherings. But for some people, the thought of going back to a pre-pandemic lifestyle is cause for anxiety.
Read MoreApril 19, 2021
Northern Indiana Amish See Hurdles Getting COVID-19 Vaccines
In Elkhart County, a direct effort to get shots to the Amish has yet to launch, according to county Health Officer Dr. Bethany Wait.
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April 18, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Pauses Johnson & Johnson Vaccines, Legislature Overrides Veto
The Indiana Department of Health reported 72 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 12,815 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 9,000 new cases in the last week, the most reported in a single week since mid-February.
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April 15, 2021
Some Counties, Municipalities Stitch Together Mask Orders After Statewide Lift
Gov. Eric Holcomb lifted the statewide mask order, last week. But experts say the municipalities and counties that have maintained some kind of mask order are helping keep cases and hospitalizations down.
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April 14, 2021
'Pause' on Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Reverberates In Local Clinics
Plans to vaccinate Americans against COVID-19 had a setback Tuesday. Federal officials called for a pause on Johnson & Johnson's vaccine, to look into reports that it causes blood clots. And that news reverberated at clinics where the vaccine had already been used.
Read MoreApril 14, 2021
Marion County Public Health Department Opens New COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic On Eastside
Appointments are now available at the Marion County Public Health Department's new COVID-19 vaccine clinic on the eastside, located at 9503 E. 33rd St.
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April 13, 2021
Indiana Presses Pause On Johnson & Johnson Vaccines, Works To Supply Vaccine Sites
The Indiana Department of Health announced Tuesday it is pausing use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine after national guidance to do so. The state is working to supply vaccination sites with other vaccines.
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April 13, 2021
COVID-19 Cases Are Rising Despite Vaccines. Experts Say It's A Race Against Variants
Despite more than 1.4 million Hoosiers fully vaccinated, the state is seeing an increase in cases and hospitalizations. That's because the state is in a race against more infectious variants.
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April 13, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 700,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Cases, Reports Recent Increase
Indiana surpassed 700,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases Tuesday. After weeks of declining cases, the state is seeing a slow uptick.
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April 13, 2021
What's It Been Like To Be A Teacher During A Year Of COVID-19?
This time last year, as the pandemic took root across the country, teachers pivoted and grappled with questions they never considered.
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April 12, 2021
House Debates, But Vote Blocked On COVID-19 Vaccine Passport Ban
Indiana House lawmakers debated a ban on so-called COVID-19 vaccine passports Monday.
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April 12, 2021
Despite Online Learning Challenges, Families Find Some Value In A Year At Home
This time last year, students had been sent home for spring break -- and many just now came back to the classroom full time. Remote learning presented challenges, but some say they managed to find value in the changes forced onto their lives.
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April 12, 2021
Indiana COVID-19 Hospitalizations, Infections Creeping Up
The Indiana Department of Health's latest COVID-19 tracking update showed Indiana hospitals treating 909 people for coronavirus illnesses as of Sunday to reach the highest level since mid-February.
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April 11, 2021
Coronavirus: Statewide Mask Order Lifts, Holcomb Vetoes Emergency Powers Bill
The Indiana Department of Health reported 76 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 12,743 confirmed deaths. The state also reported nearly 7,800 new cases in the last week, the most reported in a single week since mid-February
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April 9, 2021
One Year Later, Family Of Southern Indiana's First COVID-19 Case Reflects On His Life
It's been about a year since COVID-19 upended our lives. Now, as more and more people get vaccinated, things are slowly returning to normal. And for one Midwestern family, that offers an unusual opportunity to honor a loved one -- with a long-awaited memorial service.
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April 9, 2021
Calls To Indiana Child Abuse Hotline Down During Pandemic
The Indiana Department of Child Services hotline received on average about 600 calls each business day in 2020, the agency said, compared with about 700 calls on average every business day in 2018 and 2019.
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April 8, 2021
As COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Expands, Some Say They Don't Want The Shot
States across the Midwest are opening up COVID-19 vaccine appointments to more age groups. This should move the region closer to herd immunity and the return to some normalcy. Still, some say they don't want to get vaccinated.
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April 8, 2021
Notre Dame Will Require Students Have COVID-19 Vaccine
The University of Notre Dame will require all students to get a COVID-19 vaccine before returning for the fall 2021 semester.
Read MoreApril 7, 2021
Nearly Quarter Of Hoosiers 16 And Up Vaccinated For COVID-19
A total of 1,291,190 Hoosiers -- 23.7 percent of Indiana's residents who are at least 16 -- have been fully vaccinated, while 1,827,696 first doses of vaccine have been administered statewide.
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April 6, 2021
Marion County Focuses On Vaccinations
After the NCAA tournament, the emphasis turns to how the city will move forward in COVID-19 mitigation and vaccination efforts.
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April 6, 2021
House-Approved Bill Would Restrict Local Health Officials During Emergency
Right now, local health officials can impose restrictions that go further than any state orders, like counties keeping mask-wearing mandates in place after the statewide mandate has ended.
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April 6, 2021
Indiana Gets $61M To Boost COVID-19 Vaccine Among Minorities
The funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will help programs such as door-to-door outreach to raise awareness about vaccinations or help people sign up to get vaccinated.
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April 5, 2021
Hotels Look To The Future As March Madness Comes To An End
The Indianapolis Marriott Downtown is the last hotel hosting NCCA men's basketball teams. It now looks to the future of how the 2021 tourism and convention season will define this year's business outlook.
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April 5, 2021
Butler Hosting Vaccination Clinic for Students This Week
Butler University will offer free COVID-19 vaccinations to all students this week.
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April 4, 2021
Coronavirus: Holcomb To Veto Bill On Emergency Powers, Vaccines Open To All 16+
The Indiana Department of Health reported 50 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 12,667 confirmed deaths. The state also reported nearly 6,900 new cases in the last week.
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April 2, 2021
For Non-English Speakers, Getting Vaccine Information Is A Challenge
The Midwest is home to tens of thousands of immigrants -- including refugees from countries like Myanmar, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Iraq. And it's been a challenge to provide information about COVID-19 and vaccines to those who don't speak English.
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April 1, 2021
Most Schools Aren't Likely To Require Staff To Get A COVID-19 Vaccine. Here's Why
Some school leaders are allowing employees to decide, and have organized clinics to provide them with the opportunity to get vaccinated or offered incentives for those who do.
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April 1, 2021
Ball State Still Requiring Face Masks After State Mandate Ends
Ball State University President Geoffrey Mearns said he'll discuss a timeline to get back to normal with the school's board of trustees in May.
Read MoreMarch 2021
March 31, 2021
Holcomb Still Dropping COVID-19 Restrictions As Virus's Spread Worsens
Gov. Eric Holcomb is still dumping all statewide COVID-19 restrictions April 6, even as his top state health official warns of worsening spread.
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March 31, 2021
Hoosiers Age 16 And Older Now Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
Indiana's expansion of vaccine eligibility for youths and people in their 20s comes two days after state health officials expanded vaccine eligibility to people ages 30 to 39.
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March 31, 2021
Holcomb To Veto Bill Allowing Lawmakers To Call Special Session During Emergency
Gov. Eric Holcomb -- in an opinion supported by legal experts -- said the Indiana Constitution only allows the governor to call a special session.
Read MoreMarch 31, 2021
Indiana Helping Big Businesses, Colleges Set Up COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics
Indiana is supplying big businesses and higher education institutions with the COVID-19 vaccine, to help vaccinate their employees and students.
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March 30, 2021
Survey Finds Hoosier Small Businesses Experiencing Economic Improvements
The percentage of small businesses saying they will have to possibly close in the next six months dropped from 25 percent last December to 13 percent in a recent survey.
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March 30, 2021
500 Festival Parade Won't Happen In Its Traditional Form This May
The 500 Festival announced details Tuesday for its lineup of events in the Month of May.
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March 29, 2021
Black Americans Face Widening Life Expectancy Gap, Biggest Since 1998
Lloyd Hall's death from COVID last year illustrates a grim trend: The pandemic has decreased the life expectancy of a typical American, and is hitting Black Americans especially hard. The report shows that while Black Americans live to age 72, whites live to 78 -- a six-year gap that is the widest since 1998.
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March 29, 2021
State To Open Mass Vaccination Site In Gary, Mobile Clinics Throughout Northern Indiana
The state is partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to set up a mass vaccination site in Gary that will run from April 7 through June 2, delivering 2,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine per day.
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March 29, 2021
Indiana Opens Vaccine Eligibility To Hoosiers 30+, Ahead Of Final Expansion March 31
Hoosiers 30 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, the Indiana Department of Health announced Monday.
Read MoreMarch 29, 2021
Notre Dame Announces Plan To Vaccinate All Students In April
The school will receive enough Pfizer vaccine for every student to be fully inoculated with both necessary doses before the end of May, university president Rev. John Jenkins said in a letter to students, faculty and staff.
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March 29, 2021
Indianapolis To Receive Federal Stimulus Funding
Indianapolis is set to get an infusion of about $420 million in federal stimulus money.
Read MoreMarch 29, 2021
Indiana Court Allows Seizure Of Federal Relief Payments
The Indiana Supreme Court this past week turned down an emergency petition filed by advocates for low-income families.
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March 29, 2021
Mass Vaccine Clinics Return To Indianapolis Motor Speedway In April
Indianapolis Motor Speedway will be the site of 16 days of clinics to allow more Hoosiers to get vaccinated. This follows the success of a previous mass COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the famous track by the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) and IU Health.
Read MoreMarch 29, 2021
Indianapolis To Receive Federal Stimulus Funding
Indianapolis is set to get an infusion of about $420 million in federal stimulus money.
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March 26, 2021
Essential Worker, Butcher Juan Ruffin Reflects On One Year Of COVID-19
It's been a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic in Indiana. When the Stay-At-Home orders went into effect in 2020, we brought you the stories of essential workers outside of health care who have also put themselves at risk in order to do their jobs. We checked back in with them about their lives one year later.
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March 26, 2021
Indiana's Pandemic Death Toll Tops 13K With 20 More Deaths
Another 20 Indiana residents have died from COVID-19, pushing the state's pandemic toll to more than 13,000 deaths over the past year, state health officials said Friday.
Read MoreMarch 26, 2021
Vaccine Effort Focuses On Native Groups In Indiana
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi has partnered with several Indiana-based organizations to offer COVID-19 vaccines to Native Americans and other native groups in Indiana.
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March 26, 2021
Subaru's Lafayette Plant Begins Vaccinating Workers
Subarus Lafayette auto plant began vaccinating workers on Friday as part of a statewide plan to ramp up vaccinations.
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March 25, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 1 Million Fully Vaccinated, Three Months Into State Rollout
More than 1 million Hoosiers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, three months into the states rollout. The Indiana Department of Health announced the milestone Thursday.
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March 25, 2021
Marion County Will Continue COVID-19 Restrictions
Marion County will keep its COVID-19 mask mandate and capacity restrictions even after the state lifts its orders.
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March 24, 2021
Domestic Violence Against Black Women Rising During Pandemic
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt the lives of millions of Americans, it's also triggering an alarming increase in violence against Black women, advocates say.
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March 24, 2021
Indiana Officials Defend Decision To End All COVID-19 Restrictions
Indiana officials Wednesday defended the decision to end all statewide COVID-19 restrictions, weeks or months before all Hoosiers will get a chance to get vaccinated.
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March 24, 2021
Essential Worker, Janitor Dennis Osborn Reflects On One Year Of COVID-19
It's been a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic in Indiana. When the Stay-At-Home orders went into effect in 2020, we brought you the stories of essential workers outside of health care who have also put themselves at risk in order to do their jobs. We checked back in with them about their lives -- one year later.
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March 24, 2021
Hoosiers Likely Face Longer Waits For COVID-19 Vaccine When Eligibility Opens To All
Many Hoosiers should expect long waits to get a COVID-19 vaccine when they become eligible to schedule appointments next week.
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March 23, 2021
COVID Impacts Available Marion County Jurors
Jury trials in Marion County have resumed after months of delay due to the pandemic and there are new challenges getting jurors.
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March 23, 2021
Indiana's COVID-19 Restrictions To End April 6; Vaccines Open To All March 31
All Hoosiers age 16 and older can schedule COVID-19 vaccinations beginning March 31.
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March 23, 2021
Vigil At Statehouse Highlights Issues Exacerbated By COVID-19
Activists and faith leaders gathered at the Statehouse Tuesday for a vigil and call-to-action on the first anniversary of the state's Stay-At-Home orders.
Read MoreMarch 23, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. Gov. Eric Holcomb announced the state will expand eligibility to all Hoosiers 16 and older on March 31.
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March 22, 2021
Report Examines Indiana Agriculture Supply Chain Issues During The Pandemic
Indiana food producers potentially lost more than an estimated $500 million during the pandemic.
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March 22, 2021
One Year Of COVID-19 In Indiana
We asked Hoosiers across the state to share their stories with us the people we've lost, the triumphs, the recoveries, and the changes.
Read MoreMarch 22, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. On March 20, the state announced its expansion for Hoosiers 40 and older.
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March 22, 2021
Reflections: How This Nurse Found Strength During COVID
April Hendrickson is a resource nurse at University Hospital and Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. She spoke with Side Effect's Public Media's Darian Benson about how she found strength in her faith while working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreMarch 22, 2021
COVID Impacts Available Marion County Jurors
Jury trials in Marion County have resumed after months of delay due to the pandemic and there are new challenges getting jurors.
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March 22, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Open To Hoosiers 40 And Older Monday
Hoosiers 40 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, the Indiana Department of Health announced Saturday.
Read MoreMarch 21, 2021
Spanish Language Hotline Will Be Available To Assist With COVID Vaccine
A vaccination hotline for Spanish-speaking residents will soon be available in an effort to improve COVID vaccination rates among Indianapolis Latinx community.
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March 21, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Opening Vaccines To Hoosiers 40+, Will Soon Receive More Doses
The Indiana Department of Health reported 90 additional confirmed deaths over the last week the fewest reported in a single week since Indiana moved to Stage 5 of its reopening plan on Sept. 26. That brings the state's total to 12,536 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 5,000 new cases in the last week.
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March 19, 2021
The Latest Federal COVID-19 Relief Bill Means Nearly $2 Billion For Hoosier Schools
According to the U.S. Department of Education, Indiana is expected to receive $1,994,734,056 through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund.
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March 19, 2021
Senate Committee Considers Specific COVID-19 Liability Protections For Medical Providers
House Bill 1002 would broaden protections for medical providers beyond the legislation already signed into law by Gov. Eric Holcomb in February.
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March 19, 2021
More Than 900K Hoosiers Now Fully Vaccinated For COVID-19
A total of 1,389,008 first doses of vaccine have been administered across Indiana, and 915,719 individuals -- or nearly 14 percent of Indiana's population -- have been fully vaccinated
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March 19, 2021
'We're Very Grateful': For Some Farmworkers, U.S. Work Visas Provide Opportunity For Vaccination
As migrant farmworkers begin to arrive on the Midwest, pop-up clinics and other grassroots efforts are aimed at getting COVID vaccines to them.
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March 18, 2021
Lawmakers Back Off Proposed Restrictions On Governor's Emergency Powers
Senate lawmakers dramatically scaled back a plan to restrict the governor's emergency powers, used extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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March 18, 2021
Indiana Hospitality Leaders Optimistic Over Recovery For Hotels, Restaurants
After quickly grinding to a halt last spring, officials say Indiana's hotels and restaurants are slowly recovering.
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March 18, 2021
Indiana Bus Driver, Instacart Shopper Reflects On Working Through A Pandemic
It's been a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic in Indiana. Throughout it, many front-line workers confronted personal fears to keep schools and businesses running. Melissa Rose from Valparaiso was one of them, working both as a bus driver and as a personal shopper for the grocery delivery app, Instacart.
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March 17, 2021
GOP Attorneys General Question Stimulus Barring Tax Cuts
Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is among Republican attorneys general from 21 states are questioning a provision in the $1.9 trillion pandemic rescue plan that bars states from using its funds to offset tax cuts.
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March 16, 2021
Indiana General Assembly Approves Virtual School Funding Bill, Sends To Holcomb
The Indiana General Assembly has approved full funding for schools operating virtually because of COVID-19.
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March 16, 2021
Six March Madness Referees Removed Before First Games After One Positive COVID-19 Test
One of the six officials was reported to have tested positive, but the NCAA said in a statement that the other five interacted with the individual for a prolonged amount of time and must quarantine.
Read MoreMarch 16, 2021
Vaccine Registration Is Now Available To Hoosiers 45 And Older
Hoosiers 45 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, the Indiana Department of Health announced Tuesday.
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March 16, 2021
Reflections: Doctor On Life And Death With COVID
For the past year, Dr. Lauren Graham has been the COVID-19 coordinator at the Grinnell Regional Medical Center in Grinnell, Iowa. She spoke to Side Effects Public Medias Natalie Krebs about what shes learned one year into the pandemic.
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March 15, 2021
Reflections: How COVID Took A Toll On Nurse And Her Family
Agatha Walston, a registered nurse at a long-term care facility in Louisville, was on the front lines when the pandemic hit.
Read MoreMarch 15, 2021
Teachers Can Get COVID-19 Vaccine At State Sites, Indiana Adds New Comorbidity Eligibility
Indiana K-12 teachers, school staff and child care workers can get the COVID-19 vaccine at any site in the state, starting Monday.
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March 15, 2021
Report Shows Pandemic Challenges Disproportionately Affected LGBTQ+ Community
Damien Center President and CEO Alan Witchey said 23 percent of the LGBTQ+ population surveyed reported experiencing a decline in mental health during the pandemic.
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March 15, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Reopens Rental Help Program, Expands Comorbidity Eligibility
The Indiana Department of Health reported 136 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 12,446 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 5,000 new cases in the last week.
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March 15, 2021
Grants Awarded To Animal Welfare Organizations
The Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust awarded $745,000 to central Indiana animal welfare organizations hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreMarch 10, 2021
Teachers Can Get COVID-19 Vaccine At State Sites, Indiana Adds New Comorbidity Eligibility
Indiana K-12 teachers, school staff and child care workers can get the COVID-19 vaccine at any site in the state, starting Monday.
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March 10, 2021
Reflections: Adapting To Address Food Insecurity
As part of WFYI's series this month marking a year of pandemic, this reflection from President and CEO at Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana John Elliott explores the year in food assistance.
Read MoreMarch 10, 2021
Indiana Expanding COVID-19 Vaccinations To Teachers
Teachers and other school employees will be able to get COVID-19 vaccinations through Indianas shot clinics across the state starting next week.
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March 10, 2021
Carbon Emissions Went Back Up As COVID-19 Restrictions Lifted
Though carbon emissions went down during Stay-At-Home orders last year, the pandemic may not have had as much of an effect on air quality in 2020 as we once thought.
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March 9, 2021
Happy To Be Alive After COVID Double-Lung Transplant
In June, Mayra Ramirez became the first U.S. COVID-19 patient to undergo the life-saving procedure. She spoke with Side Effects Public Media about what shes been through in the past year.
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March 9, 2021
Appointments Filled At 2 Upcoming Indiana Mass Vaccine Sites
All appointments have been taken for the mass vaccination sites set for this Friday and Saturday at Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg and March 26-27 at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend.
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March 8, 2021
Reflections: A Timeline Of The COVID-19 Pandemic In Indiana
As 2019 drew to a close, a mysterious pneumonia-like illness emerged on the other side of the world. Within a month, COVID-19 was a global health emergency. Then, it became a pandemic. By the end of 2020, almost 8,000 Hoosiers had died as a result of COVID-19.
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March 8, 2021
Reflections: How A Year Of COVID-19 Affected America
It's been a year since the COVID-19 crisis started to dominate our lives. To mark that milestone, our journalists revisited their reporting and collected some significant moments.
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March 8, 2021
Indianapolis Public Schools Returning To In-Person Learning
The Indianapolis Public Schools will return to all in-person learning in its high schools and middle schools after spring break on April 5, the superintendent said.
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March 8, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Hits 1M Initial Vaccine Doses, State Expands Eligibility To Hoosiers 50+
The Indiana Department of Health reported 168 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 12,310 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 5,500 new cases in the last week.
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March 5, 2021
Mass Vaccination Site Opens At Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Holcomb Vaccinated
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway opened the state's first mass vaccination site Friday. Gov. Eric Holcomb and other state officials received their COVID-19 vaccine.
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March 5, 2021
Weeks Into Vaccine Rollout, Some Worry About Being Left Behind
With demand still far outstripping supply, many seniors have struggled to get an appointment and are frustrated. And some worry the most vulnerable residents could be left behind.
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March 4, 2021
Indiana's Child Care Workers Face Low Pay, Thin Margins - And The Pandemic Made It Worse
Even before COVID-19, the child care industry was characterized by thin margins and low worker pay. A year into the pandemic, some local providers are barely hanging on.
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March 4, 2021
Lawmakers Debate Guidelines For Small Business Recovery Money
The legislation essentially puts into law a program created by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation last year, using federal COVID-19 relief dollars.
Read MoreMarch 4, 2021
City Leaders Get COVID-19 Vaccine
Indianapolis city, health and faith leaders gathered to be vaccinated this week.
Read MoreMarch 3, 2021
Indiana Teachers Can Get COVID-19 Vaccine At Kroger, Meijer, Walmart
A recent Biden administration announcement means that educators can get vaccinated through federal pharmacy program sites -- in Indiana, that's Kroger, Meijer and Walmart.
Read MoreMarch 3, 2021
Indiana Opens Vaccine Registration To Hoosiers 50 And Older, Second Expansion This Week
Hoosiers 50 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Wednesday's announcement from the Indiana Department of Health is the second expansion this week.
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March 3, 2021
After Pandemic Shrunk Daycare Enrollment, Indiana Providers Try To Recover
As Indiana approaches a year since the COVID-19 shutdown, child care providers continue to face new realities as they try to keep doors open. While many high-quality providers once grappled with a shortage of child care seats, theyre now facing a shortage of children to fill them.
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March 3, 2021
Indianapolis Urban League, Walmart Partner To Offer COVID-19 Vaccinations
A community service organization and major retailer are teaming up to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to residents aged 50 and older.
Read MoreMarch 3, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. Now, Hoosiers 55 and older can register for vaccine appointments.
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March 2, 2021
School Staff Have Limited Support As Mental Health Concerns Mount From Pandemic Stress
The Indiana State Teachers Association surveyed more than 2,000 educators last fall, and roughly 70 percent said they're considering leaving the profession because of higher work demands.
Read MoreMarch 2, 2021
New Program Aims To Recruit COVID Ambassadors
Indianapolis is recruiting community members to promote local vaccination efforts through the new COVID Community Ambassador program.
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March 2, 2021
Indiana Opens Registration To Hoosiers 55 And Older, Announces Mass Vaccination Sites
Hoosiers 55 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The Indiana Department of Health announced the expansion Tuesday.
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March 1, 2021
1 Million Hoosiers Have Received At Least One Dose Of COVID-19 Vaccine
As of March 1, nearly 15 percent of Hoosiers have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose compared to 15.9 percent in Kentucky, 14.4 percent in Ohio, and 14 percent in Michigan.
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March 1, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Expands Eligibility To Hoosiers 60+, State Cracks Down On Waitlists
The Indiana Department of Health reported 195 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 12,142 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 6,000 new cases in the last week.
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February 2021
February 25, 2021
CDC Launches Web Tool To Help Americans Find COVID-19 Vaccines
In Alaska, Indiana, Iowa, and Tennessee, the tool shows all the vaccine providers, including hospitals, clinics, and public health vaccination sites.
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February 25, 2021
Marion County Eases Bar And Restaurant Restrictions
Beginning March 1 in Marion County, restaurant capacity can increase to 75 percent, bars to 50 percent and curfew will be extended to 2 a.m.
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February 25, 2021
State Officials Remain Optimistic Indiana Can Safely Host March Madness With Fans
State officials reiterated Wednesday they believe the state will be able to safely host the NCAA Men's Division I basketball championship games next month even with fans.
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February 24, 2021
Holcomb Extends COVID-19 Emergency Through March As Numbers Improve
Gov. Eric Holcomb announced Wednesday he will renew the emergency another 30 days, through March.
Read MoreFebruary 24, 2021
Indiana Cracks Down On Clinics Violating COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Guidelines
Indiana officials announced Wednesday theyre cracking down on clinics that are vaccinating Hoosiers for COVID-19 who are not eligible under the states guidelines.
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February 24, 2021
Indiana Teachers Used Waitlists To Get The COVID-19 Vaccine. Officials Shut Them Down
Teachers and other Hoosiers throughout the state signed up for vaccine waitlists to receive unused vaccine doses and help avoid waste.
Read MoreFebruary 23, 2021
IU Plans In-Person Spring Commencements, For Graduates Only
While graduates can attend the planned ceremonies, their family and friends are invited to attend the commencements virtually.
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February 23, 2021
Immigrant Doctors Worry About Families Back Home With Little Vaccine Access
As American healthcare workers received COVID vaccines, many were relieved and hopeful. But many doctors who are foreign-born also describe a bittersweet feeling. They worry about family and friends back home who have little access to the vaccines. And it could be a long wait -- dozens of countries still have not received any vaccine doses.
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February 23, 2021
Indiana Surpasses 12,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths, Continues Post-Holiday Slowdown
Indiana surpassed 12,000 confirmed COVID-19 deaths Tuesday. The state's rate of newly reported deaths has continued its post-holiday slowdown.
Read MoreFebruary 23, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Expands To Hoosiers 60 And Older
According to the Indiana Department of Health, the age group accounts for more than 22 percent of the states population but 64 percent of the COVID-19 hospitalizations and 93.3 percent of the deaths.
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February 22, 2021
Hospitality Industry Welcomes March Madness Attendance, Health Expert Preaches Caution
Hotels and restaurants were already preparing to host 68 teams consisting of athletes, coaches, staff and family members. The latest decision allowing up to 25 percent capacity at each venue will increase the number of people coming to Indiana.
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February 22, 2021
City-County Council Supports Teacher Vaccines, Adopts Money For Pandemic Response And Other Measures
The Indianapolis City-County Council held a full meeting Monday night and started with resolutions to prioritize teachers and public transportation workers for COVID-19 vaccinations.
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February 21, 2021
Coronavirus: Winter Storms Delay Vaccine Expansion, Holcomb Signs Liability Protections
The Indiana Department of Health reported 201 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the state's total to 11,947 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 6,000 new cases in the last week -- the fewest weekly reported total since early October.
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February 19, 2021
Indiana Senate Rolling Back Some COVID-19 Precautions
Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray (R-Martinsville) said the improving COVID-19 numbers across the state prompted the change.
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February 19, 2021
NCAA To Allow Some Fans At This Year's March Madness In Indiana
Last month, NCAA officials announced all 67 games would be held in Indiana to limit team travel and keep athletes, coaches and staff safe during the pandemic.
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February 19, 2021
Trust Is Key To Combat COVID Vaccine Hesitancy, Experts Say
People of color continue to be hit hard by COVID-19. But they're being vaccinated at lower rates. Experts say mistrust is a big factor, and some groups are trying to help.
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February 18, 2021
Governor Holcomb Signs COVID-19 Civil Liability Protections Bill Into Law
Senate Bill 1 requires an individual wanting to file suit to show evidence of gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct.
Read MoreFebruary 17, 2021
Indiana COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibilty Expansion Delayed By Winter Storms
More than 5,500 vaccination appointments had to be rescheduled because of severe weather this week. And the winter storm caused delays in vaccine shipments to Indiana.
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February 17, 2021
No Indiana Counties Marked High Risk For COVID-19 Spread
The Indiana Department of Health's weekly tracking map updated Wednesday labels no counties in the highest-risk red category for the first time since late September. That is down from 73 of the 92 counties in that category last month.
Read MoreFebruary 16, 2021
Winter Weather Forces Temporary Closure Of Vaccination Sites Across State
More than 70 COVID-19 vaccine clinics were closed Tuesday in the aftermath of a winter storm that dumped up to 18 inches of snow in northwestern Indiana and between 6 to 8 inches in the central and eastern parts of the state.
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February 15, 2021
COVID-19 Civil Liability Protections Bill On Its Way To The Governor's Desk
Gov. Eric Holcombs signature is all that separates Hoosier businesses, health care systems and schools from COVID-19 liability protections.
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February 15, 2021
Federal Trials Expected To Resume In Indiana District
Federal jury trials suspended last fall amid a surge in coronavirus cases are expected to resume in April in all divisions of the Southern District of Indiana, a judge announced Friday.
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February 12, 2021
Residents Turn Out for Food Distribution at State Fairgrounds
Approximately 1,000 families were served at a mobile food distribution site at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Friday.
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February 11, 2021
Marion County COVID Updates Focus On Vaccination
Marion County officials gave an update Thursday on COVID-19 numbers, public health orders and vaccination efforts.
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February 11, 2021
Senate COVID-19 Liability Protections Passes House, House Version Still Moving Through
Senate Bill 1 would limit legal action from Hoosiers against companies, hospitals, schools and other organizations for damages related to COVID-19. It's one of two COVID liability protection bills proposed this session.
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February 11, 2021
Indiana Officials Say Some Special Educators Can Get Their COVID-19 Vaccine Now
Indiana is the only state in the region with no plans for when teachers will become widely eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, but the state's health commissioner says a specific group of special educators should get their shots now.
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February 11, 2021
Rural Areas Face Challenges In COVID Vaccine Rollout
Across the Midwest, the rollout of COVID vaccines has been spotty. Lots of people are having a trouble with online signups. And vaccine demand far exceeds supply. That's made the process challenging, especially in rural areas.
Read MoreFebruary 11, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. Now, Hoosiers 65 and older can register for vaccine appointments.
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2021
Once Vaccine Supply Allows It, Indiana Outlines What Next Steps Of Rollout Look Like
Indiana announced Wednesday it would not be extending vaccine registration to the next age group -- 60 and older -- this week. But health officials outlined what the phase after that looks like.
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February 10, 2021
Study Finds Pandemic Exacerbated Indiana's Preexisting Economic Issues
Only 42 percent of Hoosiers have what is considered a good paying job according to a new report released Wednesday by the Brookings Institution.
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February 9, 2021
Indiana Deaths Jumped By 18% During 2020 Amid Pandemic
Preliminary totals from the Indiana Department of Health show nearly 77,000 died in the state last year -- an increase of almost 11,000 from 2019.
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February 8, 2021
Senate-Approved Bill Empowers Local Leaders To Overturn Health Officials' Actions
Legislation approved by the Senate Monday would give more power to local city or county leaders to overturn the actions of local health officials.
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February 8, 2021
CARES 2.0: How Much New Federal Emergency Funding Is Coming To Indiana Schools
The package provides schools with a direct line to roughly four times the amount of money than the original CARES Act. Many plan to use the funding to address learning loss and other ongoing needs exacerbated by the pandemic.
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February 8, 2021
In Rural Indiana Counties, Libraries Help With Vaccine Outreach
Noble County is mostly rural and sits in the northeast corner of Indiana. When local officials looked for vaccination sites, they sought a place that was centrally located and accessible.
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February 8, 2021
Indianapolis Public Library Locations Set To Reopen For In-Branch Services
Patrons will be allowed inside the facilities to use computers, browse collections, pick up items they've placed on hold, and check out materials through self-service kiosks. Programming and events will remain online.
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February 8, 2021
Coronavirus: State Opens Vaccines To Hoosiers 65+, Relaxes School Quarantine Guidelines
The Indiana Department of Health reported 296 additional confirmed deaths over the last week, along with 1,507 historical deaths from a year-end audit. That brings the states total to 11,401 confirmed deaths.
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February 8, 2021
Fort Wayne Children's Zoo Tigers Test Positive For COVID-19
The source of infection is not yet known and zoo staff are working with the Allen County Department of Health and the State Board of Animal Health to identify potential sources, according to officials.
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February 4, 2021
Indiana Adds 1,507 Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths After Audit, Total Surpasses 11,000
More than 1,500 confirmed COVID-19 deaths were added to the state's count Thursday after a year-end audit of deaths.
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February 4, 2021
Questions About COVID Vaccines? Two Scientists Explain.
The COVID-19 vaccines hold promise for ending the pandemic, and millions of Americans have received at least one shot. But 39 percent aren't likely to get a vaccine, according to a December study from the Pew Research Center. One of the main reasons: a lack of trust in the research and development process.
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February 4, 2021
Committee Changes Bill Dealing With Governor's Emergency Powers
The bill arose out of frustrations from some lawmakers about Gov. Eric Holcomb's COVID-19 restrictions.
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February 4, 2021
Lilly Partners With State, Health Systems To Create COVID-19 Treatment Sites
Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly is partnering with health care systems around the state to increase access and affordability around its COVID-19 antibody treatment.
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February 3, 2021
Indiana Will Air Super Bowl Commercial To Urge Hoosiers To Get COVID-19 Vaccine
The Indiana Department of Health will run a commercial during Sunday's Super Bowl emphasizing the importance of COVID-19 precautions and getting the vaccine.
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February 3, 2021
Nursing Homes Must Allow Visitors During Lockdown Under Senate Bill
Indiana would require all nursing homes to allow at least some limited visitation for their residents -- even during a pandemic -- under legislation unanimously approved by a Senate committee Wednesday.
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February 3, 2021
House Passes Bill To Provide Additional Aid To Small Businesses, Goes To Senate
House Bill 1004, passed by the Indiana House Tuesday, will provide funds to help small businesses that have been hit hard during the pandemic.
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February 3, 2021
Indiana Virtual School Funding Fix Legislation Takes Next Step With House, Senate Approval
Lawmakers in both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly have approved legislation to provide full funding for schools operating virtually during the pandemic after the Senate approved its version of the bill Tuesday.
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February 2, 2021
Indiana House Member Returns From COVID-19 Hospitalization
Democratic Rep. Vanessa Summers of Indianapolis told House members Tuesday that she was hospitalized for 18 days, including 11 days in the intensive care unit, and was still using supplemental oxygen to breathe.
Read MoreFebruary 2, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. Now, Hoosiers 65 and older can register for vaccine appointments.
Read MoreFebruary 1, 2021
Hoosiers 65 And Over Now Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
The Indiana Department of Health announced Monday that Hoosiers age 65 and older are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
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February 1, 2021
Some Grocery Stores Continue To Ban Reusable Bags, Despite Low Risk Of COVID-19 Spread
The science on how the virus spreads has evolved -- and some question the need to continue reusable bag bans.
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February 1, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana To Receive More Vaccine Doses, Holcomb Relaxes Restrictions
The Indiana Department of Health reported 258 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 9,340 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 15,500 new cases in the last week the fewest weekly reported total since late October.
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January 2021
January 29, 2021
COVID Forces Artist With Disability To Pause Teaching
Johnson Simon, a painter and professor who has cerebral palsy, had his career plan interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. He spoke to Seth Johnson about his passion for teaching in an audio diary project for our Move to Include series.
Read MoreJanuary 29, 2021
Lilly 4Q Profit Surges, Helped By New COVID-19 Treatment
Eli Lilly's new COVID-19 treatment helped the drugmakers fourth-quarter profit surge even though U.S. regulators approved its use late in the quarter.
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January 28, 2021
New State, Federal Policies Could Alleviate COVID-19 Stress On Latinx Communities
Latinx communities represent a high portion of essential workers, and have also been hit hardest by lost jobs and reduced hours during the pandemic.
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January 28, 2021
Feds Withheld Info On Virus Cases Following Executions
At least two journalists tested positive for coronavirus after witnessing the Trump administration's final three federal executions, but the Bureau of Prisons knowingly withheld the diagnoses from other media witnesses and did not perform any contact tracing, The Associated Press has learned.
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January 28, 2021
Survey: Parents and Teachers Grapple with In-Person Learning
A new national survey from Public Agenda finds that only about a third of parents think they can handle the challenge of educating their children. But it also finds that teachers and parents are in broad agreement that in-person teaching during COVID-19 is dangerous.
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January 28, 2021
Virtual School Advocates Seize Opportunity To Voice Funding Frustrations, Parent Sues SBOE
An Indianapolis parent is suing the State Board of Education after it changed a policy to ensure full funding for students learning remotely because of COVID-19.
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January 28, 2021
Woman With Disability Adjusts After COVID-19 Interrupts Work
As a person who likes to stay busy, Chelsea Davis had a hard time adjusting when COVID shut down her places of employment and volunteering. Seth Johnson interviewed her for Side Effects Public Media as part of an audio diary project for our Move to Include series.
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January 27, 2021
Gov. Holcomb Relaxing Coronavirus Limits On Crowd Sizes
Indiana's crowd size limits will be relaxed starting next week following recent improvements in the statewide COVID-19 infection and hospitalization rates, the governor announced Wednesday.
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January 27, 2021
Holcomb Relaxes Restrictions As COVID-19 Numbers Improve
Gov. Eric Holcomb is relaxing COVID-19 restrictions as the number of Hoosiers testing positive and hospitalized with the virus trend down.
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January 27, 2021
More Vaccine Expected, But Indiana Not Advancing Distribution To More Age Groups
Indiana officials say the state will begin to receive a slight increase in its number of COVID-19 vaccine doses -- but not enough to open up appointments to more people.
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January 27, 2021
Will COVID Spark A New Round Of Festival Cancellations?
Fairs and festivals play an important role in the culture and economy of communities across the Midwest. But the continued prevalence of COVID-19 could put them in jeopardy again in 2021.
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January 27, 2021
Indiana Tracking Map Lowers COVID-19 Risk For Many Counties
Indiana health officials have lowered the risk level for coronavirus spread in more of the state's counties, leaving only five rural counties in the most dangerous category.
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January 27, 2021
Como Eliminar Las Barreras A Las Pruebas De COVID Para Trabajadores Agrcolas
Durante mas de una decada, Sarai ha sido una trabajadora agrcola que ha cultivado maiz y soya en los campos del centro de Illinois. Se mudo de Mexico a los Estados Unidos para encontrar un trabajo que le permitiera mantener mejor a su familia.
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January 27, 2021
Runner With Disability Gives Students Message About Inclusion
Andrew Peterson isn't one to stay still, but he's had to get creative since the pandemic cancelled the marathons and other events he'd normally be running in. Born with fetal alcohol syndrome, he is an avid runner and has shared a message about inclusion with tens of thousands of students.
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January 26, 2021
Studies Extend Hopes For Antibody Drugs Against COVID-19
Antibodies are proteins that attach to a virus and block it from infecting cells, but it takes several weeks after infection or vaccination for the most effective ones to form. The drugs aim to help right away, by supplying concentrated doses of one or two antibodies that worked best against the coronavirus in lab tests.
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January 26, 2021
Disability Amid COVID Crisis Sparks Push For New Skills
What does an entertainment journalist do when he cant cover events? Seth Johnson talks about his experience learning new skills including creating radio diaries for Side Effects during the pandemic. Part 1 of our Move to Include series on how people with disabilities are coping during this nationwide public health crisis.
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January 25, 2021
Lawmaker's Bill Would Prevent Many Future COVID-19 Restrictions
An Indiana lawmaker wants to ban state and local governments from ever again imposing many of the COVID-19 restrictions in place over the last year.
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January 25, 2021
Indiana House Version Of COVID-19 Liability Bill Passed By Committee
Indiana businesses and institutions are one step closer to being protected from COVID-19 lawsuits. A House committee passed the bill but some still worry the protections go too far.
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January 25, 2021
Fishers Opens Mass Vaccination Site
The city of Fishers opened the doors of its new mass vaccination site Monday.
Read MoreJanuary 24, 2021
Coronavirus: Indiana Starts 2021 With COVID-19 Improvements, But Vaccine Rollout Slows
The Indiana Department of Health reported 404 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 9,340 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 20,500 new cases in the last week the smallest weekly total reported since Halloween.
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January 22, 2021
Under Strain Of Pandemic, Some Child Care Providers May Face Permanent Closure
Nearly one in five child care providers in Indiana say they are likely to permanently close in the future, according to a survey conducted by the Office for Early Childhood and Out of School Learning at the end of last year.
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January 21, 2021
School Police Can Sign Up For The COVID-19 Vaccine Right Now. Teachers Still Can't
The limited supply of COVID-19 vaccines is causing tension as states roll out plans for who should get shots first, and school advocates in Indiana are pressing for more access for teachers.
Read MoreJanuary 21, 2021
Vaccine Rollout Slows In Indiana After Trump Administration National Stockpile Failure
The Trump administration's failure to produce a national stockpile of the COVID-19 vaccine is preventing Indiana from moving its vaccine distribution plan further forward.
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January 21, 2021
Indiana Sees Slow Down In COVID-19 Cases, Testing As It Surpasses 600,000
Indiana surpassed 600,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases Thursday. While the state's daily case count has slowed down, so has its testing.
Read MoreJanuary 21, 2021
Thawed Vaccine Leads Johnson County To Offer Shot To Public
The Johnson County Health Department and Johnson Memorial Hospital received 957 already thawed Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines late last week. Officials had to act fast because that vaccine can be stored thawed for only up to five days under U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidance.
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January 21, 2021
Lilly: Drug Can Prevent COVID-19 Illness In Nursing Homes
Indianapolis-based drugmaker Eli Lilly said Thursday its antibody drug can prevent COVID-19 illness in residents and staff of nursing homes and other long-term care locations.
Read MoreJanuary 20, 2021
Indiana Starts 2021 With Decreases In COVID-19 Cases, Death Trends
After setting more than a dozen COVID-19 records between October and December, Indiana has started the new year with significantly lower cases and deaths than those record-setting months.
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January 20, 2021
Amid COVID-19, Public Health Workers Face Intense Pressure And Backlash
The work that people in public health do is often not very visible. It's usually focused on long-term impacts like improving maternal health and encouraging flu shots. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the U.S. last spring, public health workers were thrown into the spotlight seemingly overnight. And this sudden shift has taken a huge toll on them.
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January 19, 2021
Indiana Crosses 9,000 Confirmed COVID-19 Deaths, Sees Slight Slow Down In Pace
More than 62 percent of the state's total deaths have been reported since Indiana moved to Stage 5 of its reopening plan on Sept. 26.
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January 19, 2021
IDOE Under Federal Investigation For Pandemic Special Education Service Complaints
The U.S. Department of Education said in a letter sent to the state last week that it's "troubled" by reports of parents filing multiple complaints that their students have been forced into virtual learning plans that don't address their unique needs.
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January 18, 2021
Telemedicine Sounds Great, But There Are Barriers, Too
As soon as COVID hit, there was a huge jump in telemedicine visits. But some of these virtual options remain out of reach for the most vulnerable populations, like seniors and rural residents.
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January 15, 2021
Black Families More Likely To Lack Housing Amid Pandemic
Hoosier housing experts say the coronavirus has put added pressure on many families. There may be fewer options to live with relatives, leaving more parents and children without a permanent residence. And that can hit the Black community especially hard. A look at the issue through the experience of a single father of five.
Read MoreJanuary 14, 2021
Agencies Working To Get COVID-19 Vaccine To Homebound Seniors
As Indiana works to make sure older adults get the COVID-19 vaccination, local agencies on aging are helping register seniors and get the word out about mobile vaccination offerings.
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January 14, 2021
Talk To Children About Mental Health And Suicide, Experts Say
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a big impact on Americans' mental health. Hotline calls have increased. And doctors have seen an increase in depression like symptoms in patients -- even children. Health professionals are encouraging adults to talk to children about mental health and suicide.
Read MoreJanuary 14, 2021
Legislative Leaders Say They'll Address Enforcement Of Mask-Wearing At Statehouse
A legislative committee hearing this week was disrupted when dozens of people who showed up to testify refused to wear masks -- which are required in the Statehouse.
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2021
Officials Defend Vaccine Rollout After Opening To Hoosiers 70+: 'Our System Is Working'
Hoosiers 70 and older can now register for appointments to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The Indiana Department of Health announced the expansion Wednesday.
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January 13, 2021
Indiana Bill Seeks To Let Workers Opt Out Of Employer-Mandated Vaccines
A bill that would give Hoosier workers the right to refuse employer-mandated vaccines had its first hearing in a committee Wednesday morning. It would go further than current federal laws and excuse workers based on their conscience.
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2021
How Will Indiana Distribute COVID-19 Vaccines? Here's What You Need To Know
Indiana opened registration beyond first responders and health care workers on Jan. 8, allowing Hoosiers 80 and older to schedule appointments for vaccines. As of Jan. 13, those 70 and older are eligible to schedule a vaccination appointment.
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2021
Health Officials Identify United Kingdom COVID-19 Strain In Indiana
The Indiana Department of Health announced Monday a new strain of COVID-19 -- which had previously been identified in the United Kingdom -- is also in Indiana.
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2021
Officials: More Contagious Virus Variant Found In Indiana
The Indiana Department of Health said the variant was identified in the state through testing by the state agency's laboratory and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but Monday's announcement included no additional information on its discovery in the state.
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January 11, 2021
Coronavirus: Vaccine Registration Begins For Hoosiers 80+, Indiana To Host March Madness
The Indiana Department of Health reported 502 additional confirmed deaths over the last week. That brings the states total to 8,613 confirmed deaths. The state also reported more than 37,500 new cases in the last week.
Read MoreJanuary 8, 2021
State Vaccination Registration Experiences Slowdowns Due To High Traffic
Registration opened to Hoosiers aged 80 and older on Friday, which represents about 4 percent of the population.
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January 8, 2021
Chicago Mural Honors COVID's Essential Workers
On Chicago's Southwest side, a colorful mural pays tribute to Americas essential workers. It features three of the community's very own: Rosalinda, a retail clerk; Javier, a postal carrier and Juan, a butcher shop worker. Underneath their portraits are the words El Corazon de Chicago: The heart of Chicago.
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January 7, 2021
'It Gives You Some Hope': How Schools Are Planning For Teacher COVID-19 Vaccinations
In some counties, initial doses have already become available for teachers, while others are still waiting without much information about when they'll get their shot.
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