1st Minnesota Coronavirus Death Reported Saturday

TWIN CITIES, MN — A Minnesota resident has died from the new coronavirus, marking the first death in the state from COVID-19 as the number of confirmed cases rose to 138, health officials said on Saturday.

The number of confirmed cases is up from 115 Friday.

A Ramsey County resident in their 80s died on March 19. The person had recently tested positive for COVID-19 and was the contact of an earlier confirmed case.

"Gwen and I extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones during this time of loss," said Gov. Tim Walz in a statement. "As COVID-19 continues to spread in Minnesota, we must all do what we can to keep each other safe."

"My heart is with the family, friends, and neighbors who are grieving," said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan. "This loss is deeply felt by our entire community. Now more than ever, each of us must do our part to prevent the spread of this virus, especially to our most vulnerable Minnesotans."

Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm said the death underscores the importance of protecting the most vulnerable Minnesotans during the outbreak.

"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the patient," Malcolm said. "We’ve all seen reports of outbreak-related deaths in other states and countries, but this Minnesota death reminds us how important it is to continue working to protect each other during this outbreak."

Malcolm emphasized the importance of all Minnesotans doing their part to slow the spread of the virus and protect those in our communities who might be at higher risk of severe illness or death.

The most vulnerable include those over 65 and those with underlying health conditions, according to health officials.

State and local public health have implemented a series of community interventions such as temporary closures of restaurants, bars and schools, recommended social distancing measures such as staying home as much as possible, maintaining a distance of 6 feet from other people, replacing in-person work meetings with teleworking, and canceling gatherings of 50 people or more.

Also, do not hold events with more than 10 people where the majority of participants are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, including gatherings such as those at retirement facilities, assisted living facilities, developmental homes and support groups for people with health conditions.

Coronavirus Cases by county:

Anoka 5
Benton 1
Blue Earth 3
Carver 3
Chisago 1
Clay 1
Dakota 7
Dodge 1
Filmore 2
Hennepin 52
Jackson 1
Martin 5
Mower 3
Nicollet 2
Olmsted 12
Ramsey 17
Renville 1
Rice 1
Scott 2
Stearns 4
St. Louis 1
Steele 2
Wabasha 1
Waseca 1
Washington 4
Wright 3

Here's more coverage of COVID-19 in Minnesota:

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How To Apply For Unemployment In Minnesota

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Federal Tax Day Postponed To July 15 Amid Coronavirus Outbreak
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