ST PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will self-quarantine for 14 days after learning he had contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19.
Walz issued a statement Monday morning informing the public that a member of his security detail had tested positive on Sunday night.
“The most important thing Minnesotans can do to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home,” Governor Walz said in the statement. “I’m using this as an opportunity to lead by example. Though I’m feeling healthy and not showing any symptoms, I’m going to work from home and model the protocol we are asking all Minnesotans to follow.”
Walz will be self-quarantining until April 6. He will continue to oversee Minnesota's coronavirus response.
“Because our state must maintain essential services, not every Minnesotan is able to stay home,” Walz said in his statement. “Those of us who are able to work from home must do so out of respect to our health care professionals, first responders, pharmacists, grocers, child care providers, and all Minnesotans who are working to keep us safe during this crisis.”
Walz's revelation is one of a number of high-profile announcements concerning Minnesota public figures. Senator Amy Klobuchar says her husband John is hospitalized with the coronavirus, and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan revealed her older brother Ron passed away from COVID-19 over the weekend.
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