Officials have confirmed the first death in Minnesota connected to the coronavirus.
The Minnesota Department of Health reported Saturday that a Ramsey County resident in their 80s died Thursday after recently testing positive for COVID-19 coronavirus.
According to officials, the person contracted the virus through contact with a family member, an earlier confirmed COVID-19 case with a history of international travel.
“Gwen and I extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones during this time of loss,” said Governor Tim Walz. “As COVID-19 continues to spread in Minnesota, we must all do what we can to keep each other safe.”
“My heart is with the family, friends, and neighbors who are grieving,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “This loss is deeply felt by our entire community. Now more than ever, each of us must do our part to prevent the spread of this virus, especially to our most vulnerable Minnesotans.”
Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Majority Leader Ryan Winkler issued the following statements on the first death in Minnesota from the coronavirus:
“Our thoughts go out to the loved ones of the Minnesotan who passed away,” said Speaker Hortman. “We have to do all we can to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the most vulnerable among us during this crisis. I strongly encourage all Minnesotans to follow the guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Health and to stay home if at all possible.”
“We are facing a challenge unprecedented in recent history, but we are confident in Minnesotans’ ability to do what we need to do and help each other make it through,” said Majority Leader Winkler. “We are going to continue doing everything we can to help Minnesotans navigate this crisis. I extend my sympathies to the family and friends of this Minnesotan.”
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The state of Minnesota has set up a hotline for general questions about coronavirus at 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903, available 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
More information on the coronavirus:
- Facts not fear: What the Midwest should know about coronavirus
- Current number of presumptive coronavirus cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin
- Coronavirus-related cancellations, postponements and impacts in the Twin Cities
- Here are the common symptoms of coronavirus
- What are the 'underlying conditions' that make coronavirus more serious?