COVID cases on the rise in Minnesota; northwest Minnesota sees more than 250% increase in cases over Thanksgiving

Detroit Lakes, Minn. (KDLM) – New wastewater data from the University of Minnesota shows an uptick in COVID-19 cases statewide.

The data runs through Nov. 26, when people were still traveling for the holiday. Statewide, the data show there has been a 51% increase in COVID cases over the last two weeks, and a 21% increase over the last week. During the week of Thanksgiving more than 180 people in Minnesota were hospitalized with COVID-19.

Areas of northern and northwestern Minnesota — including Bemidji, Moorhead, and Thief River Falls — all saw an increase of over 250% in the last two weeks. However, COVID loads in southern Minnesota — including Albert Lea, Rochester, Lanesboro, and Winona — remained steady compared to the weeks prior.

The Centers for Disease Control says that COVID-19 activity remains elevated nationwide, though RSV test positivity exceeds COVID-19 test positivity. Minnesota’s respiratory illness activity level remains minimal compared to the rest of the nation. 

Still, the CDC recommends that all people ages 6 months and older stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines and their seasonal flu vaccine. As of Nov. 18, 15.7% of adults have received their updated COVID-19 vaccine.