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Minnesota Department of Health
November 15, 2021
Stay Safe during the Holidays
As we come up on the end-of-year holidays, we find ourselves at a difficult point in the pandemic. Vaccination numbers continue to rise, and the recent authorization of vaccinations for kids ages 5 to 11 is encouraging. On the other hand, the highly contagious Delta variant is driving Minnesota’s COVID-19 case numbers to an alarmingly high level, our hospitals remain crowded, and there are still many of our fellow Minnesotans who do not have vaccine protection.
With that in mind, we are encouraging all Minnesotans to think carefully about their holiday plans. It’s important to connect with family and friends, and no one wants to miss out on another holiday season. At the same time no one wants to be the one who passes a potentially deadly virus along to loved ones. We can reduce the risk and still enjoy the season by following the guidance on CDC: Holiday Celebrations.
- Get vaccinated if you are eligible. It protects you AND it protects those around you – especially those under age 5 who cannot get the vaccine.
- Wear well-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are in public indoor settings if you are not fully vaccinated, and even if you are fully vaccinated if the community is experiencing substantial or high levels of COVID transmission. This is especially important if a member of your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated.
- Remember that outdoors is safer than indoors.
- Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces.
- If you are sick or have symptoms, do not host or attend a gathering.
- Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have a close contact with someone who has COVID-19: Find Testing Locations in Minnesota.
If you are considering traveling for a holiday or event, visit CDC: Travel to help you decide what is best for you and your family.
- CDC still recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated and provides testing recommendations for those who are planning to travel.
- Masks are mandatory on public transportation, including buses and airplanes.
If you are gathering with a group of people from multiple households and potentially from different parts of the country, you should consider some additional precautions prior to gathering (e.g., lay low before you go, avoid crowded indoor spaces, get tested) to further reduce risk.
COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11 Years Old
Following an extensive clinical trial and final recommendations from CDC, Minnesota children 5- to 11-year-olds are now eligible to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Parents and guardians should visit COVID-19 Vaccine for Children and Teens to learn more and find 5- to 11-year-old children a vaccine.
Minnesota providers have ordered as many doses as possible from the federal government. Over 500,000 children across Minnesota are now eligible for the vaccine. Ninety-four percent of Minnesota’s population is now eligible to be vaccinated.
Kids Deserve a Shot First Deadline
Today (11/15) is the deadline to enter the first of five "Kids Deserve a Shot" drawings! The winner will get a $100,000 Minnesota college scholarship! There will also be prize packages from the Vikings, Twins, Timberwolves, Wild, Gophers, and First Avenue. All fully vaccinated 12-17-year-olds are eligible. Learn more and register at Kids Deserve a Shot.
Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Materials
We are adding new videos, print materials, and translated documents often. Check out the pages below to view, download, or print these resources.
The situation is changing rapidly. Visit Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) for the most up-to-date information and follow MDH on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram to stay informed.
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