Coronavirus: MDH Does Not Recommend Closing Schools

TWIN CITIES, MN — The Minnesota Department of Health Thursday said it does not recommend closing schools during the spread of coronavirus, or COVID-19. MDH says that doing so could do more harm than good.

"So far, none of Minnesota's cases have been in school-aged children, and very few cases worldwide have been in children," state health officials stated Thursday.

"Closing schools can have serious impacts, such as children not being able to get necessary nutrition, and there is a ripple effect when parents have to miss work or find child care due to children being out of school."

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MDH said it's working with the education department to get more recommendations to schools.

The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that the most important thing Minnesotans can do right now to protect themselves, their families and their communities is to take everyday steps to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Those include:

• Staying home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into your sleeve , and then throwing the tissue in the trash.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds , especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Read more in Minnesota Coronavirus coverage:

• Coronavirus: 9 Cases In Minnesota Confirmed As Of Thursday
• Gov. Tim Walz Authorizes Funds For Coronavirus Response
• Target Sets Purchase Limits Amid New Coronavirus Outbreak
• Gophers Game, Big Ten Tournament Canceled
• Minnesota Vikings Suspend Travel For Coaches, Scouts