Stay Away From Super Bowl Gatherings, Say Minnesota Health Leaders

(KNSI) – Minnesota health officials are discouraging people from gathering for Super Bowl parties this weekend.

Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm says even though the state’s COVID-19 case growth has slowed down in the past couple of weeks, Minnesotans should still take precautions.

“We just are still in a situation where there’s just a lot of virus out there, and though we’re feeling good about our improved numbers, we need to take common-sense steps to keep those numbers from going back up,” Malcolm said.

This is not the year to host a multi-household Super Bowl party, says state infectious disease director Kris Ehresmann.

“Fortunately, we don’t have to feel bad because the Vikings aren’t in the Super Bowl, so that takes some of the pressure off,” she said.

Ehresmann said people should reconsider gathering for Sunday’s game, but if they do gather, they should take precautions like social distancing and wearing face masks.

“As for the sharing of food, it is better if you don’t share food and if people have their own snacks,” Ehresmann said.

The Kansas City Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers square off in Super Bowl LV at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.