Gov. Tim Walz To Self-Quarantine After Guard Gets Coronavirus

TWIN CITIES, MN — Gov. Tim Walz Monday announced he will self-quarantine for 14 days after learning he had contact with someone who tested positive for the new coronavirus. Walz was informed of the contact early Monday morning and has not left his home since.

"The most important thing Minnesotans can do to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home," Walz said in a statement.

"I’m using this as an opportunity to lead by example. Though I’m feeling healthy and not showing any symptoms, I’m going to work from home and model the protocol we are asking all Minnesotans to follow."

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A member of the governor's security detail tested positive for COVID-19 Sunday. Walz was in close proximity to this individual late last week.

Walz is the latest Minnesota politician to be personally affected by the new coronavirus. On Saturday, the brother of Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan died from the coronavirus. "COVID-19 now has a personal connection to me," Flanagan wrote. "Please do all you can to prevent one for you."

Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Monday that her husband has contracted COVID-19 and is also battling pneumonia.

While Walz is not showing any symptoms, he will self-quarantine until April 6, according to a news release.

The Center for Disease Control recommends that individuals who have a known contact with COVID-19 self-quarantine for 14 days as a precautionary measure to avoid accidentally spreading the virus. The Minnesota Department of Health recently recommended that all Minnesotans work remotely when possible.

"Because our state must maintain essential services, not every Minnesotan is able to stay home," Walz added.

"Those of us who are able to work from home must do so out of respect to our health care professionals, first responders, pharmacists, grocers, child care providers, and all Minnesotans who are working to keep us safe during this crisis."

Walz will continue to oversee Minnesota’s response to COVID-19. The Walz-Flanagan Administration says it is prepared to combat COVID-19 regardless of which location the governor is working from.

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• 1st Minnesota Coronavirus Death Reported Saturday
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