Coronavirus In Minnesota: COVID-19 Cases Rise To 35; 3 Community Transmissions
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Department Of Health released an update Sunday on the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Minnesota, announcing that the number of patients who have tested positive has increased from 21 to 35.
The patients include residents from Ramsey, Hennepin and Dakota Counties. No specifics on the individuals were provided. According to MDH, of the 14 additional confirmed cases, three were community transmission.
As of Sunday, 1422 Minnesotans have been tested for the illness. A map posted by the Minnesota Department of Health shows the spread of the virus.
According to MDH, counties with cases include: Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Olmsted, Ramsey, Renville, Stearns, Waseca, Washington and Wright.
MDH officials say of the total 35 confirmed cases, two patients are hospitalized.
On Sunday, Gov. Tim Walz announced the temporary closure of public schools across the state starting Wednesday in the hopes of slowing the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
READ MORE: Coronavirus In Minnesota: Gov. Walz Orders Closure Of Public Schools Across State Starting Wednesday
RELATED: Coronavirus Resource Page
For most people affected by COVID-19, symptoms are mild. However, the disease can be threatening to the elderly and people with sensitive lungs. Even so, the vast majority of people who get the virus recover. In order to stop the spread of COVID-19, health officials are urging the public to wash their hands regularly, stay home if sick and avoid close contact with people.
MDH officials say a lot of people are looking for answers right now. More than half of a million people visited the state's COVID-19 website Friday, and about 1,700 calls were made to its hotline.
The department is expanding its hours to better accommodate questions. Residents can now call 651-201-3920, any day of the week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
