First confirmed case of COVID-19 recorded in Lincoln County
Southwest Health and Human Services (SWHHS) was notified by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) of a person from Lincoln County that tested positive for COVID-19. This person is following all recommendations set by MDH and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). State and local public health work together to support persons and families in these situations. While this is the first confirmed positive case in our six counties, it is likely that this virus is circulating in all of our communities and we need to act accordingly.
With more cases being confirmed in Minnesota and the nation, it was only a matter of time before the virus was in our area. To slow the spread of disease and the ability of our health care systems to provide the best care, we continue to recommend:
• Stay home if you are sick
• Wash your hands, often and thoroughly
• Cover your cough
• Avoid touching your face
• Follow Governor Walz’s Stay At Home Executive Order 20-20
• Call the hospital/clinic before you go
We understand that this is a time of stress in our communities. While we physically cannot always be together, we can still support each other through phone calls, FaceTime, and cards. Consider the neighbor who may need help with supplies. We are in this for the long haul and can make a difference if we follow these guidelines.
For more information visit our website at http://swmhhs.com/coronavirus/ or find us on Facebook.
For further local information, please call or e-mail the following:
Minnesota Department of Health hotline 651-201-3920 or 1-800-657-3903. The hotline is open 7am-7pm Monday - Sunday
Lauren Mellenthin 507-537-4075 lauren.mellenthin@swmhhs.com
SWHHS, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
Ann Orren 507-532-1317 ann.orren@swmhhs.com
SWHHS, Health Education Supervisor
Carol Biren 507-532-4136 carol.biren@swmhhs.com
SWHHS, Public Health Director
Amber Scholten, 507-694-1463 ascholten@co.lincoln.mn.us
Lincoln County Emergency Manager