Carlton County COVID-19 update 3/11/20
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has been doing a wonderful job leading the efforts related to COVID-19 in Minnesota. To date, there have been three confirmed cases in the state (Ramsey, Carver, and Anoka Counties).
MDH has recommended that local public health continue to pass along information about personal preparedness as the best prevention against the spread locally. A few reminders are:
- Wash your hands with hot water and soap, often (at least 20 seconds of vigorous scrubbing!). If soap and water are not available, the next best option is to use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol content).
- Cover your cough or sneeze (with a tissue or the inside of your elbow)
- Avoid touching your face (COVID-19 is spread through droplets)
- Stay home if you are sick (ex – fever, productive cough, body aches, sore throat, etc.)
- Consider social distancing (recommended distance of 6 feet between you and others, no handshaking/hugging, etc.).
At this point, CDC does not recommend the use of facemasks and/or gloves as a preventive measure for the general public. Check out CDC’s website for additional personal preparedness information!
Carlton County Public Health and Human Services Administration and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, along with partners have been working vigilantly to make preparations and contingency plans related to COVID-19 specifically. Infectious disease preparedness and response plans exist for the county, and staff are trained for situations like this. County officials are ready to implement these plans, if the need arises.
Please continue to visit MDH’s website and the CDC’s website for the most up to date, accurate information and recommendations.