COVID-19 is spreading across West Central Minnesota, including the communities that Horizon Public Health serves.
In particular, Douglas County has seen an increase with 103 active cases as of Tuesday, Sept. 29.
In response, Horizon Public Health is asking everyone to consider the role they can play in helping to reduce the spread of the virus.
"As we have increased social, work, school and activity contacts and it is important for each of us to think about how our choices might affect others we come into contact with and come together as a community to protect each other," Horizon Public Health said in a news release Tuesday. "Every contact you have puts you at higher risk to of exposure to the virus and the potential to spread it to others."
Douglas County data reflects that the majority (65%) of recently confirmed COVID-19 cases are in the 19-65 age range, suggesting an increase of community transmission among working age adults.
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Five percent of cases were ages 1-12 (early childhood through elementary), 11% of the cases are ages 13-18 (middle and high school). 19% of the cases are over 65. (Specimen collection dates of September 13 through September 26)
Regardless of your risk, Horizon Public Health said it is always important to follow these best practices to help slow the spread:
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Get tested if you are sick or recommended to because of close contact.
• Wear a face covering or mask.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your cough or sneeze and wash your hands .
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• Avoid gatherings where people aren’t wearing masks and practice social distancing of at least 6 feet in public places.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Symptoms of COVID-19 to look out for are: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
Individuals who have had close contact with someone who was diagnosed with COVID-19 are recommended to limit their activities and remain at home for 14 days after their last exposure, even if they test negative.
Individuals who experience COVID-19 symptoms are recommended to stay home for at least 10 days from symptom onset, with at least one being fever-free if fever is present (without taking fever-reducing medications) and symptoms are improving.
If you have additional questions about COVID-19, talk to your health care provider, local public health or call the Minnesota Department of Health Helpline at 1-800-657-3504, weekdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you are on Facebook and/or Instagram please follow Horizon Public Health @HorizonPublicHealth and/or visit its website for additional links and information at horizonpublichealth.org.
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