Coronavirus (COVID-19) Local News

Robert Werthwein, director of Colorado’s Behavioral Health Office who has battled depression most of his adult life, said he can see that COVID has put Coloradans on edge more than ever.

Researchers have shown how creative thinking can be cultivated by simple habits like exercise, sleep and reading. But another catalyst is unplanned interactions with close friends, casual acquaintances and complete strangers. With the closure of coffee shops — not to mention places like bars, libraries, gyms and museums — these opportunities vanish.

This week, there are almost 400 prison guards out sick with COVID-19 and more than 1,100 prisoners with active infections across the state.

On heels of Longmont United Hospital administering vaccine on Wednesday, Longs Peak Hospital started vaccinating workers on Thursday. Weld County also opened a new drive-thru testing site in city this week.

Colorado ranks No. 9 for gap between renter’s income and housing cost. Housing advocates see rent stabilization as one solution.

Colorado had expected to receive 56,550 Pfizer doses on Friday after getting an initial 46,800 doses on Monday. Operation Warp Speed officials informed the state that Colorado's next Pfizer allocation is expected to be 39,780 doses, a difference of 16,720, the Department of Health and Environment said in a statement.

It’s inequitable, they say, to ask English learners, most of whom are students of color, to return to school buildings and sit for exams when the same might not be asked of their English-speaking peers.

The program, announced this week by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, encourages businesses to “implement safety measures beyond what is already required by public health orders and guidelines that will help slow the spread of COVID-19, and in doing so, be able to accelerate their reopening.”

Data from October through November marked increases in infection rates and deaths, along with shortages of staff and personal protection equipment.

The Food Pantry Assistance Grant Program passed with strong bipartisan support in a special session and should help at least 150 food pantries and Colorado's five food banks.