Remain at home, Caron says

Despite a spike in deaths statewide from the coronavirus pandemic, southeastern Minnesota continues to be spared of any COVID-19 deaths.
Minnesota hit a daily high of 11 deaths on April 9—the highest one-day total in the state since the pandemic started.
There have been 69 confirmed cases in Steele (9), Dodge (15), Freeborn (22) and Mower (23) counties. However, no deaths have been recorded as of Monday afternoon in those areas.
Public Health Director Amy Caron said the age range of the cases in Steele and Dodge counties is under 1 year old to 70 years old. She is contacted by the Minnesota Department of Health whenever someone tests positive for COVID-19 and reside in either county.
Caron said she is not releasing specifics about the individual cases because it is protected information and it preserves the privacy of the individuals.
There is still no vaccine for COVID-19, and officials can only treat when there are serious cases, Caron said.
“I urge you to continue to take the actions to slow down the spread in our communities,” Caron said. She urges people to abide by the stay-at-home order. She also wants people to practice social distancing by maintaining a distance of six feet.
On Wednesday, Gov. Tim Walz extended the statewide stay-at-home order until May 4. He argues that such a move will slow the delay of the peak of the pandemic until summer, giving Minnesota hospitals enough time to become equipped to handle excessive cases.