BELTRAMI COUNTY SEES UPTICK IN COVID-19 CASES

Bemidji, MN – Over the Fourth of July weekend, Beltrami County has reported seven new positive COVID-19 cases. Six of these cases are related to a social group that had visited several establishments in the area during the time they were infectious. Two individuals experienced symptoms that they recognized as possible indicators of COVID-19 and called to set up a test. When their tests came back positive, they communicated with all of the people they had close contact with during their infectious period and encouraged them to self-quarantine and get tested. Four of the close contacts have resulted positive so far. All four were asymptomatic or had mild symptoms at the time of testing. The seventh case does not have an identified link to the other six. We are waiting for test results from additional close contacts.

There is a time lag between when we receive notice of positive cases and when they show up on the MDH website.

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.

-Beltrami County COVID-19 Response/Recovery Team