The death toll in Minnesota from COVID-19 reached 1,397 on Wednesday, with an additional five deaths.
Another 304 confirmed infections were reported, increasing Minnesota’s total number of coronavirus cases to 33,763, according to Minnesota Department of Health data updated Wednesday morning. The actual number of cases is likely much higher as the data only represents those who have been tested for the virus, state officials say.
Wednesday’s additional deaths are one of the lowest daily counts in the past two months. The state hit a 10-week low on Monday, with just four deaths.
Of the state’s total deaths, 1,102 were long-term care or assisted living center residents.
Despite large gatherings and protests surrounding the murder of George Floyd and police brutality, cases, deaths and hospitalizations from the virus have been on the decline.
Earlier this month, the MDH set up several community testing centers for those who had participated in protests. While the positivity rate at these sites has been low so far, officials said there are concerning racial disparities for those who tested positive for the virus.
Individuals who were Black, Asian or Latino had significantly higher positivity rates than whites. State officials said these disparities are more likely caused by systemic racism than by biology. The MDH needs to do more outreach in these communities and ensure that they have proper access to testing, state officials said.
Additionally, while cases and deaths are trending downward statewide, state officials said the Mankato area has seen a recent uptick in positive cases among young adults in their 20’s. The MDH interviewed those who tested positive and found that many of them had been going to bars and restaurants.
State officials urge those who are young to still take proper precautions when going out in public. Even though young people have a lower risk for complications, they can still spread it to vulnerable members of the population.
HOW ARE PATIENTS DOING?
- There were 29,707 patients Wednesday that no longer need to be isolated as they have recovered enough. This is an increase from 29,399 yesterday.
- There were 340 patients with COVID-19 in Minnesota hospitals, a slight increase from 339 the day before.
- Of those patients in hospitals, 160 are in intensive care, a slight increase from 158 Tuesday.
WHO IS GETTING SICK?
- Number of health care workers with COVID-19: 3,450
- The age group with the most infections remains 30- to 39-year-olds with 6,757 cases. 20- to 29-year-olds are just behind, with 6,747 cases.
- The age group with the most deaths remains 80- to 89-year-olds, with 477 deaths.
