We’ve made progress in slowing the spread of COVID-19 here in Minnesota. But as we watch numbers rise across the country, we know the COVID-19 outbreak is not over. Testing is now widely available and contact tracing allows us to quickly identify new outbreaks. These things help us slow the spread of the disease so we can get back to enjoying the things we love.
We must continue to all do our part. Wearing a mask is simple - nearly everyone can do it. When paired with other steps, like staying six feet apart, washing your hands, and staying home when possible, we can stay safe. Learn more about the state's masking requirement so we can all mask up.
How to protect yourself and others
Tips for wearing masks or face coverings
- Wash your hands before putting on your mask and after taking it off.
- Cover your nose and mouth and try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face.
- Keep the mask on your face the whole time you are out. Don’t put the mask around your neck or on your forehead.
- Children younger than 2 years or anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unable to remove the mask without assistance should not wear a mask.
- Wash your mask after each time you wear it.
- Don’t buy or wear surgical or N95 masks. Health care workers need to use these types of masks.
Get more information about masks from the Minnesota Department of Health.
Minnesota COVID-19 Dials
How we move to the next phase
Moving to the next phase of reopening will require a vaccine, an effective and widely available treatment. or the elimination of new cases over a sustained period of time.
What could move us back
We will closely monitor infection data and may move back to a previous phase if there is a sustained rise in the infection positivity rate, a sustained increase in hospital admissions, a reduction of hospital capacity, or a significant outbreak.
