Itasca County COVID numbers drop but deaths still on the rise

ITASCA CO., MN-- Despite case numbers dropping in Itasca County, health experts say COVID-related deaths are still on the rise.

Between March 10 and 16, 25 COVID cases were diagnosed in Itasca County, less than half that of the previous week and a fraction of the rates seen earlier this year.

Health leaders say even with improvements in COVID case numbers, many Itasca residents who have been infected have become seriously ill, hospitalized and died.

Itasca County’s death total is 144.

In the first two months of the year, Itasca County has seen 21 COVID related deaths and 108 hospitalizations of residents, most of which have occurred in those ages 60-69.