Department of Health: Community spread leads to 3 COVID-19 cases in Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - The Minnesota Department of Health says three of its 35 confirmed COVID-19 cases are community transmission cases.

Community transmission cases occur when the individual who tested positive did not travel or have any known contact with someone with COVID-19.

Those cases were there in Hennepin, Ramsey and Dakota counties.

How to spot the difference between the flu and coronavirus

An expert with Allina Health gives tips on how to spot the difference between the flu and coronavirus as the state confirms its third COVID-19 case.

The Minnesota Department of Health stressed the importance of all Minnesotans continuing to do those things that can limit the spread of the coronavirus:

Stay home and away from others if you are sick
Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue
Wash your hands frequently for 20 seconds with soap and water
Avoid touching your face throughout the day

Tips on washing your hands to reduce spreading germs

Amid the coronavirus outbreak, health officials are advising people to be sure to wash your hands. Follow these tips to help reduce the spread.

If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately. For more information from the CDC, click here.

More information about coronavirus can be found on MDH’s Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) website. MDH has set up a COVID-19 public hotline that is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The hotline number is 651-201-3920.