Carlton County COVID-19 update 4/16/20
General Updates:
For updated case counts around the state, please continue to reference the situation map, updated by MDH daily at 11am here. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) continues to do the main investigation of each case, and Carlton County Public Health staff will follow-up when needed.
Of the 1,912 lab-confirmed cases on MDH’s website, 213 are currently hospitalized and 1,020 no longer need isolation (recovered). The Moose Lake Correctional Facility has reported 13 lab-confirmed cases in inmates (these fall within the 29 total in Carlton County), 10 of which have no longer requiring isolation (MN Department of Corrections website).
Additional Health Recommendations:
Carlton County officials answer three important and common COVID-19 questions below:
What does community transmission mean?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) definition of community spread is “…people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.” MDH’s website shares that the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- It spreads between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
- It is also possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. Washing your hands and cleaning frequently touched surfaces often is a good way to prevent you from getting COVID-19 from touching surfaces.
- Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms (when they are asymptomatic).
More questions about community transmission/spread? Check out CDC’s COVID-19 FAQ page.
When do I wear a mask?
The federal government has issued some new guidance on the use of cloth face coverings to help slow the spread of COVID-19. CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies).
- Here are a few important things to keep in mind with this recommendation:
- Masks or cloth face coverings can help with preventing your germs from infecting others – especially in situations where you may spread the virus without symptoms.
- Wearing a mask does not protect you from others who may spread the virus. So, whether or not you wear a mask, you still need to wash your hands frequently, cover your cough, and practice social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet of space between people.
- People who are sick should still stay home. Wearing a mask does not mean people who are sick should go out into the community. If you are sick and need to go to the doctor, call your health care provider before going in and wear a mask to the clinic.
- Don’t buy or wear surgical or N95 masks. These supplies are in high need in health care facilities to protect health care workers.
- Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
When do I go in if I have COVID-19 Symptoms?
If you are sick can manage symptoms at home, you don’t need to seek health care or be tested. This prevents you from accidentally spreading COVID-19 to others who may be at higher risk for serious complications. If your symptoms get worse, call your health care provider before going in. CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker found at Symptoms & Testing can help you make decisions about seeking appropriate medical care. This tool is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of disease or other conditions, including COVID-19.
Please note: if you need to see a doctor for any other need (urgent or not, including non-COVID-19 related) please do not hesitate to call your provider about your concerns, or go in to Urgent Care or the Emergency Room.
Mental Wellbeing Tip of the Day:
Foster Personal Wellness:
- Remember, you must first be well in order to care for others (i.e. always put your oxygen mask on first)! Healthy lifestyle factors can strengthen your body to adapt to stress.
- Make sure you are getting adequate rest. As much as possible, maintain a consistent sleep schedule with the same wake time each day. Take brief self-care breaks when needed throughout the day.
Carlton County Public Health and Human Services is continuing to recommend that anyone with general health-related questions about COVID-19 call MDH’s hotline (7am-7pm): 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903.
Carlton County Updates:
Please continue to visit the County webpage for updated details on building/service availability: http://www.co.carlton.mn.us/. Some highlights are:
- All Carlton County Offices in the Courthouse are closed to the public except by appointment.
- The Motor Vehicle Registration Office is closed to in-person transactions, but tab renewals are being accepted by drop off or mail (see also Driver & Vehicle Services Online Services).
- The Chestnut Building and Transportation Building are closed to the public – those wanting to make an appointment should call the respective office.
- Public Health and Human Services remains open to the public. When possible, call the Public Health and Human Services general number (218-879-4511) for information and services before coming in to the office.
- The Southern Carlton County Family Center (Moose Lake) will only be open to the public Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Resources:
Please continue to access the following websites for the most up to date and accurate information:
Stay At Home Executive Order – MN: www.mn.gov/stayhomemn
(State) Minnesota Department of Health - MDH: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html
(National) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
(International) World Health Organization - WHO: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019