COVID-19 Message from MCD
Hello,
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has confirmed the first case of COVID-19, which involves an older adult resident of Ramsey County who recently traveled on a cruise ship with a known COVID-19 case. The patient is currently in isolation at home and is recovering. MDH is working to identify and contact all those who may have come in contact with the infected person. These people will be asked to quarantine themselves for 14 days from their exposure and will be monitored for symptoms. A second case was also confirmed in Carver County.
Members of the disability community are rightfully concerned about the impact of COVID-19. Please know that the Minnesota Council on Disability (MCD) has been working closely with Minnesota state leaders in preparation through the COVID-19 interagency task force and two advisory committees to the Minnesota Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
It is critical that all of us do our part to slow the spread of this virus including:
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Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into your sleeve, and then throwing the tissue in the trash.
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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.
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Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth – with unwashed hands.
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Stay home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Resources
- A hotline for the public has been established by the Minnesota Department of Health: 651-201-3920.
What’s next
According to the Department of Health, if COVID-19 disease begins to spread in Minnesota communities, state and local public health authorities would consider community interventions such as temporary closures of child care facilities and schools, workplace social distancing measures such as replacing in-person meetings with teleworking, and modifying, postponing or cancelling mass gatherings. Decisions about the implementation of community interventions will be made by state and local officials based on CDC guidance as well as the scope of the outbreak.
Consider how community intervention measures may affect your day to day living. The delivery of disability services like PCAs, transportation services, and sign language interpreting may be dramatically impacted. Talk with your family, friends and neighbors and have an emergency plan ready. If you are able to, consider stockpiling 14-30 days of essential household supplies for your home.
Stay Informed
The Minnesota Department of Health’s website and the Center for Disease Control website contains the most accurate and up-to-date information on the COVID-19 outbreak. The Minnesota Council on Disability will continue to monitor the situation and communicate important information to our community when necessary.
Thank you and please remember that MCD serves as a resource for you. Please get in touch with your questions and concerns at http://disability.state.mn.us/ or 651-361-7800.
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