After no new cases were reported in Crow Wing County for nearly a week, three more laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 among county residents appeared in the state’s tally. Of the new cases, one is a man and two are women. A third Crow Wing County patient needed intensive care, up from two reported previously, of the four in need of hospitalization.
Overall, the age range of infected residents remains between 20s and 80s. Twelve are men and eight are women; two are health care workers. Two of the cases are known to be travel-related, while three had contact with a confirmed case.
Half of those confirmed to have had the disease in Crow Wing County — 10 — no longer require isolation.
Symptoms, recommendations and resources
In a majority of cases, COVID-19 causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
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According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Health officials recommend individuals and families make a plan in case someone gets sick. They also suggest following the same steps for avoiding the flu:
Stay home and away from others if sick.
Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow or a tissue.
Wash hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water.
Avoid touching the face.
The Minnesota Department of Health has set up COVID-19 hotlines available every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.:
School and child care questions: 651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504.
Health questions: 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903.
Visit cdc.gov and health.state.mn.us for more information about COVID-19.
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