The University of Minnesota is continuing to track the spread of COVID-19 across the state using wastewater sampling, as Minnesota experiences a notable surge in cases. According to the CDC, Minnesota is one of 27 states currently seeing “very high levels” of COVID-19 activity. This increase, which has been ongoing for eight weeks, mirrors the trend seen last summer, with hospitalizations rising steadily, particularly among older adults.
Recent data from the University of Minnesota’s Wastewater Surveillance Study shows that early August measurements of COVID-19 levels in wastewater are reaching peaks not seen since January. This suggests a potential for increased hospitalizations and even deaths in the coming weeks, as the virus continues to spread statewide.
To minimize the risk of infection, the Mayo Clinic advises the public to avoid close contact with sick individuals, wash hands frequently, disinfect commonly touched surfaces, and maintain physical distancing in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
The rise in COVID-19 numbers is also being observed in central and west-central Minnesota, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance as the state navigates this latest wave.