June 4, 2020
Updates from the Governor
Last night, Governor Walz activated the Minnesota National Guard to provide protection for Clay County and surrounding areas during demonstrations planned in North Dakota in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
Local law enforcement authorities are aware of credible threats of violent activities during demonstrations planned in North Dakota that could impact nearby Minnesota communities, and requested assistance from the Minnesota National Guard to help provide security and preserve public safety.
The Department of Health continues to recommend that any Minnesotan who has attended a protest, vigil, or community clean-up get tested for COVID-19. Minnesotans should get tested right away if they have symptoms, and if they do not have symptoms should get tested 5-7 days after the event. If the test is negative but you are worried you might have been exposed, seek another test 12-14 days after the event, even if you do not feel sick. Find a testing location near you.
Finally, a curfew remains in effect for Minneapolis-St. Paul tonight from 10pm to 4am.
Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19
- Wear masks when in public. 10-50% of virus carriers are asymptomatic wearing masks helps control the virus and has been shown to lower COVID-19 spread.
- Avoid enclosed spaces with groups of people, where the virus can linger in the air for long periods of time.
- Get tested if you have cold or flu-like symptoms – Find testing locations.
- Stay six feet away from others.
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or sleeve, or a tissue and then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands afterwards.
- Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
- Up-to-date guidance is available from the Department of Health.
Resources
- Visit mn.gov/covid19 to learn more about Minnesota’s COVID-19 Response and Preparation
- Find a testing location in your community
- CDC Situation Updates
- Apply for Unemployment Insurance
- Minnesota Department of Health Updates
- About COVID-19