2 MSP Passengers Told To Self-Quarantine After COVID-19 Exposure

TWIN CITIES, MN — Two passengers flying into the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport from Europe were told to self-quarantine because they were exposed to a person confirmed to have COVID-19. The Minnesota Department of Health wants them to quarantine for 14 days.

"If they develop symptoms, they will be tested for COVID-19," MDH said in a statement Wednesday.

"Other passengers on the plane will be contacted by health officials if anyone on the flight were to test positive with COVID-19 at a later date.The measures taken to isolate and monitor potentially exposed passengers are designed to keep the risk of spread to others as low as possible."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention quarantine station at MSP told MDH about the passengers

The self-quarantine measure is a precaution. The two passengers did not show symptoms of the new coronavirus, according to health officials.

There have been no cases of the disease confirmed in Minnesota. Five people have been tested in the state, but all five results came back negative, states MDH.

However, MDH still reminds all Minnesotans they should be taking action now to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections.

These steps include:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with your sleeve or a tissue, not your hand
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Stay home when sick.
• Stay informed by visiting the MDH and CDC websites often.