Minnesota Law Blog

Once a widespread killer, tuberculosis has been reduced to a rarity in the United States, thanks to advances in antibiotics and infectious disease control. But it's still virulent overseas. And sometimes, it hits home.

A recent outbreak of the illness in southern Minnesota has been traced to Mankato State University. At least eight people associated with the university have come down with active infections, and another 30 have been identified as latent carriers (meaning they tested positive for it but haven't developed any symptoms and aren't contagious). The state Health Department is warning that anyone who has been on campus since August 2016 should pay attention to respiratory symptoms that could indicate an infection.

It's a little like carbon monoxide: You can't see it, can't smell it, can't taste it, but when it sneaks up on you, the results can be deadly.

Black ice is perhaps the most dreaded killer on wintry Minnesota roads. It's more dangerous than snow or slush. Despite its ominous sound, however, it's the subject of many misconceptions. Here's what every driver should know to stay safe in black-ice conditions.

Thinking of serving Caesar salad at your Thanksgiving table? You might want to rethink your menu - or at least go for a different type of green. For the second time this year, a widespread E. coli outbreak has led grocers across the country to pull romaine from the shelves.

The Star Tribune reports that 32 confirmed cases have arisen in 11 states. Though none are in Minnesota (yet), it's important to err on the side of safety when it comes to this potentially life-threatening illness - especially amongst those most vulnerable. Pregnant women, children and the elderly should steer well clear of potential contaminants. In an abundance of caution, the CDC is warning consumers to avoid romaine entirely.

The temperatures have dropped, and the first snowfall has gilded the ground. Winter seems to have officially arrived in Minnesota. With the holidays right around the corner, many Minnesotans are going to be on the roads traveling back and forth to holiday get-togethers.

Though most Minnesotans are used to driving in snow and ice, it never hurts to brush up on a few winter driving tips. Here are six ways to drive safer on snow and ice this winter.