Coronavirus Information
The video above was recorded on the November 13, 2020. On later dates, contained information may be out of date.
Coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, is a novel, or newly-discovered, coronavirus that was identified in humans in 2019. There are a lot of coronaviruses, and they cause about a third of the cases of what we call the common cold. Coronaviruses often cause upper respiratory tract illnesses, and they’re found in humans and animals.
Because this is a new virus in humans, we’re still learning about it. The situation and our understanding of it is changing constantly. From what we know so far, the best way to prevent infection is for everyone to wear a mask; keep at least a 6 ft distance from and limit time around others; and wash hands frequently.
COVID-19 produces symptoms similar to other, more common illnesses, many of which are in our community. Symptoms are sometimes mild or moderate but can also be life-threatening, especially for older people and those with compromised immune systems. Long-term effects for survivors are not yet known. The CDC recommends that everyone practice social distancing and wear non-medical masks in public to slow the spread of this disease. The slower it spreads, the more time we have to learn about it and protect our communities.
Beginning July 25, Minnesotans are required to wear masks in indoor public locations to help slow the spread of COVID-19. In addition, continue to wash your hands, get tested when sick, stay 6 feet away from others, and stay home when you can.
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