Gov. Walz and Lt. Gov. Flanagan Update: September 1, 2020

September 1, 2020

Updates from the Governor

This past weekend, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx urged Minnesotans to double down in their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19. Echoing critical public health messaging from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), Dr. Birx urged Minnesotans to wear masks, practice social distancing, and avoid large crowds. While in Minnesota, Dr. Birx met with Governor Tim Walz and state public health officials.

“While Minnesotans have worked hard to slow the spread of COVID-19, Dr. Birx’s visit confirms what we already know – we cannot let up,” said Governor Walz. “COVID-19 fatigue is real, and we are all feeling it. But with fall and winter fast approaching, Minnesotans must double down in their efforts to mask up, social distance, and protect their community.” 

Dr. Birx particularly urged Minnesotans in rural areas to take additional precautions to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

“Growing up in a town of less than 300 people, I know firsthand how rural communities can feel a false sense of immunity,” Walz said. “But the truth is that COVID-19 does not respect boundaries and affects communities of all sizes. In fact, rural areas have the potential to be the hardest hit by this pandemic. I urge people across Greater Minnesota to heed the advice of White House Expert Dr. Birx and take action to keep their communities safe.”

See coverage of Dr. Birx’s visit below.

Birx urges Minnesota to ‘buckle down’ on COVID-19 before winter (Star Tribune)

White House expert: Rural Minnesotans need to do more to fight COVID-19 (Pioneer Press)

White House advisor Dr. Birx worries rural Minnesota isn’t taking COVID-19 seriously enough (Fox 9)

Birx makes mask pitch, voices concerns over Minnesota COVID-19 trends (MPR)

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.

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