Gov. Walz COVID-19 Update: April 21, 2020

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April 21, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 4:45 PM on 4/21/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Today, the Department of Human Services announced that more than 1,200 Minnesota child care providers will receive about $9.8 million to continue serving children of essential workers through the first round of emergency state funding. The grants, proposed by Governor Walz and authorized by the Minnesota Legislature last month, will help family child care providers and child care centers ensure there is capacity to serve these families during the state’s COVID-19 response.

Department of Health Update

We know that COVID-19 is particularly harmful to our elderly population, and seniors living in congregate living facilities face an even higher risk of infection. Today, Department of Health officials shared more on the support they are providing to long-term care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlighted their work with state and local staff to identify and address ongoing issues such as infection control, personal protective equipment, and staffing.

Worthington Plant Closure

Yesterday, the Governor and Commissioners of Agriculture, Health, and Labor and Industry commented on the COVID-19 outbreak in Worthington and voluntary closing of the JBS pork plant. They acknowledged the difficulty this poses for the community, and highlighted the importance of worker safety, need for additional testing, and communication with local officials and community leaders to help those affected by the plant closure.

National Volunteer Week

April 19-25 is National Volunteer Week. The Governor and Lt. Governor encourage Minnesotans to participate in their homemade mask drive by making homemade masks for donation to congregate care facilities. On Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Minnesotans can deliver homemade masks to their local fire department. Fire departments will then deliver the masks to local congregate living facilities for their employees and residents to wear. Find other ways you can make a difference in your community here.

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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 seven days after your illness onset or three days after your fever resolves without fever reducing medicine, 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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