MLC reports

second case

NEW ULM — The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Brown County grew to five, from two, over the weekend, according to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Brown County Public Health.

According to Brown County Public Health and MDH, two of the three new cases are in their 50s. One is recovering at home, and the other is hospitalized. These two cases are identified as community transmission.

The other additional case is in their 80s and is recovering at home, with no information regarding transmission, said Brown County Public Health.

MDH staff is conducting the case investigations, said Brown County Public Health. Positive cases are isolated at home to prevent the spread of disease, and the contact investigation identifies their close contacts. Close contacts are notified by MDH, quarantined for 14 days from their exposure and monitored for fever and respiratory symptoms.

Among earlier confirmed cases was Martin Luther College (MLC) President Mark Zarling, who was released from the hospital in Mankato on April 1 and is recovering at home, according to a statement from the MLC website.

“He will continue to self-quarantine as he follows an interactive care plan set by the COVID-19 care team of nurses and doctors who will monitor his progress and follow up as needed,” the college’s statement said. “President Zarling extends his thankfulness for the outpouring of prayers and encouragement he has received.”

The college also announced on Monday that a second, unnamed MLC employee has been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus.

“After being admitted and tested at the New Ulm Medical Center, the individual was released and is recuperating at home,” the college said. “All precautionary measures are being taken with suspected contacts being investigated and quarantined as necessary. The campus environment remains safe.”

The cases confirmed through laboratory testing are a small sample of the true number of cases, stressed Brown County Public Health. Brown County will continue to see additional cases in the days and weeks to come, Brown County Public Health said. It is important to practice protective recommendations which include:

• Wash your hands frequently

• Stay home if you are sick

• Cover your coughs and sneezes

• Practice social distancing of at least 6 feet or greater

• Limit movement in the public to only essential needs

• Avoid touching your face, mouth, nose, and eyes with unwashed hands

• Wear a mask if in the general public

If you develop symptoms such as a fever, cough, or shortness of breath and are able to manage your symptoms at home, it is recommended to stay home and manage those symptoms. If you are in need of medical advice, please consider a virtual visit or phone call to your provider prior to reporting to the medical facility.

MDH has set up a public hotline that is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and that hotline number is 651-201-3920.

Additional information regarding COVID-19 can be found on the CDC and MDH websites:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

http://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/index.html