Gov. Tim Walz COVID-19 Update: May 12, 2020

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May 12, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 8:15 PM on 5/12/2020.

Updates from the Governor

After receiving bipartisan support as it passed through the state legislature, Governor Walz today signed into law an extension of the Minnesota fund dedicated to our COVID-19 response, which was set to expire on May 11. The COVID-19 fund has saved lives by increasing testing capacity, ensuring we have an adequate number of hospital beds for Minnesotans who need care, and purchasing much-needed personal protective equipment.

“The COVID-19 fund has saved lives,” said Governor Walz. “Its extension will allow Minnesota to continue providing resources Minnesotans need to weather this pandemic.”

The Governor also signed into law The Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act, which requires drug makers to provide a detailed rationale to the state for any large price increases on drugs; a law to improve voting accessibility, modernize election security, and secure the health and safety of election officials and voters; and a ban on harmful child marriages.

“These bills are the product of bipartisan collaboration and will improve Minnesotans’ lives,” said Governor Walz. “Amid COVID-19, Minnesota remains committed to helping Minnesotans afford the medication they need to survive, ensuring Minnesotans can safely cast their ballots, and protecting our most vulnerable citizens.”

Today, leaders from the Minnesota Department of Health provided the daily COVID-19 briefing to Minnesotans, during which they discussed upcoming clarifying changes to the data presented online regarding COVID-19 cases and mortality rates. The new data will provide more transparency and clarity on the pandemic in Minnesota. The Walz-Flanagan Administration will continue to track and analyze data and use that information to teach us more about this disease and its impact on the people of Minnesota.

Everyone can work to reduce the spread of COVID-19

  • 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.
  • Stay home if you have cold- or flu-like symptoms, for 10 days after your illness onset and three days after your fever resolves without fever reducing medicine (whichever is longer), and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Up-to-date guidance from the Department of Health on recommended community mitigation strategies can be found here.

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