April 1, 2020

At Governor Tim Walz’s April 1st press conference, Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm updated listeners on the current state of the COVID-19 crisis in Minnesota. With 689 lab confirmed cases and 17 total deaths, her message was clear that the virus still poses a serious threat. During a time of crisis such as this, tragedy can be overwhelming, yet Gov. Walz was pleased to see a truly Minnesotan response during these difficult times.

State Emergency Operator Director Joe Kelly reported on the extent of this heartening response. Amazed at the over 800 offers of help to fulfill health, manufacturing, and awareness needs from Minnesota businesses and citizens, Director Kelly stated that “It’s really gratifying to see how much you want to help Minnesota get through this.”

Many talented individuals have also put their abilities to use by sewing high quality protective face masks that meet government health standards. With the supply of hospitals’ Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) quickly running dry, these sewn masks will surely help in the fight against COVID-19.

To be part of this Minnesotan response, there are many ways to get involved. Commissioner Malcolm stated that one of the best ways to help out during this crisis is to give blood. With virus fears, a severe shortage of blood donations has developed; “The blood supply is under a lot of stress with blood drives being cancelled,” stated the Commissioner, “but people can be assured that giving blood is safe.” While the Commissioner encouraged individuals to satisfy this medical need, she reiterated the importance of practicing hygienical wisdom and social distancing while supporting the blood bank and helping those in need.

Of course, one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus is to continue social distancing. Although Minnesotans have been exceptionally successful in maintaining this practice so far, the Governor wanted to ingeminate this philosophy as the upcoming holiday season that normally calls for large family gatherings quickly approaches.

With troubling times in the near past and more soon to come, Gov. Walz and his staff are more than pleased with Minnesota’s prudent, sensible, and level headed response.