NEW ULM — Brown, Renville and Redwood Counties recently rose from low to medium COVID-19 hospital admission levels, according to the Minnesota Department of Health COVID-19 Situation Update Thursday.

“Although Brown County is at medium transmission level, there is some improvement compared to a few weeks ago,” said Brown County Public Health Director Jaimee Brand.

“COVID-19 hospitalization rates have increased since the middle of November, and continue to fluctuate from week to week, particularly in the 85 and older population,” Brand added.

She said free test kits are available at Brown County Public Health, 1117 Center St., from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Brand said isolation recommendations for those testing positive for COVID-19 are to stay home for at least five days and isolate from others at home. If symptoms improve after day five, isolation may end as long as there has been no fever for 24 hours.

Masking through day ten is recommended for those leaving isolation after day five.

Brand said the most common influenza strain in Minnesota continues to be Influenza A.

“Minnesota has minimal transmission, however the test positivity rate increased over the past two weeks. The third respiratory virus, RSV, has increased across Minnesota the past few weeks,” said Brand.

“One of the hardest things about it is many of the respiratory symptoms are the same,” said Renville County Public Health Director Sara Benson.

“One of the most important things is if you feel ill, stay home and don’t spread it to everyone else. Stay home, stay well and protect your neighbors,” Benson said.

She said COVID-19 vaccines are available.

“If you haven’t received one since Sept. 12, a new booster is available from providers at clinics and pharmacies. Anyone six months and older can get flu shots. It’s not too late to get one,” Benson said.

She added that RSV shots are available now for women who have been pregnant for 32-36 week, infants under eight months old born during the RSV season and for people age 60 and older.

Brand said ways to lessen the chances of becoming ill from the three major respiratory viruses are washing hands in warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom, before and after preparing food and eating.

She urged people to talk to their healthcare provider to determine if vaccination against these viruses is an option.

For more information, visit https://www.health.state.mn.us