Walz Asks Minnesotans To 'Double Down' Against COVID-19 Spread

MINNESOTA — Heading into fall, Gov. Tim Walz, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, and Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm are urging Minnesotans to "double down" in their efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Minnesota’s rate of community transmission is at the "high and sustained level" of over 30 percent, according to health officials.

"As we head into the fall and the long winter ahead, we must double down in our fight to combat the spread of COVID-19," Walz said in a news release. "We must all do our part to slow the spread, protect our communities, and keep our businesses open. I know it is hard, but Minnesotans are resilient people. We must dig deep, stay strong, and hold the virus at bay."

Malcolm in particular is asking for extra caution at private events including parties, weddings, and funerals, citing COVID-19 case growth stemming from private settings.

"We’re seeing concerning instances of community transmission in our state, often linked to private gatherings like parties or weddings," Malcolm stated. "Each of us needs to take responsibility and work hard to keep COVID-19 at bay in our communities."