Information about COVID-19 and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at 7:35AMVia a March 9 e-announcement from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board:
You have likely heard news about the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) and that the Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed two cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota.
The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is taking the situation seriously and actively monitoring the situation in partnership with the City of Minneapolis Health Department and the City of Minneapolis Office of Emergency Management. Our priority is to the health and safety of our park visitors and employees. Throughout the park system, maintenance crews are increasing the cleaning of communal surfaces, including door handles and drinking fountains, in our park buildings.
The City of Minneapolis is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Minnesota Department of Health, which is leading the statewide response to COVID-19. Any decisions around MPRB operations and services will be coordinated with city and state emergency and public health officials and will communicated to the public in a timely manner.
In the meantime, the Minnesota Department of Health encourages everyone to take the same precautions as they would take to avoid colds and flu.
What can Minnesotans do to protect themselves?
The best available guidance for avoiding coronavirus disease 19 is to take the same precautions you take for avoiding colds and flu:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
- Cover your cough and sneeze. Cough or sneeze into the crook of your arm.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Stay home when you’re sick.
- Stay informed. Visit the Minnesota Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites often.
How should I prepare?
- As always, be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home. Keep enough food, regular prescription drugs and other necessities on hand in case you need to stay home and are not able to easily go out.
- Make plans to care for sick household members.
- If you’re planning travel, check the CDC website for updated travel advisories.
As a reminder, seasonal flu is circulating in Minnesota. It’s never too late to get your flu shot, which will help protect you and those who are too young to get the shot.
Videos
These videos from Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm offer basic information about coronavirus disease 19 and resources for additional information and updates.
