Itasca Co. COVID cases ‘spiking again’

ITASCA CO., MN-- Itasca County leaders are urging people to be careful amid a spike in COVID cases and hospitalizations just within the last few weeks.

On Wednesday, health officials believe the latest uptick is from the Omicron BA.2 variant.

Between April 25 and May 9, 104 new cases of COVID were confirmed, which does not include at-home (antigen) testing. Of those confirmed, 64 were in the past week.

The case rate in Itasca County has quickly gone from almost nothing a few weeks ago to a 14-day average of 23.5 per 10,000 residents.

Itasca County has seen five COVID-caused hospitalizations over the past two weeks and no additional deaths.

They are asking residents to look for signs and symptoms to catch the illness sooner to prevent more spreading.

“Please consider testing and stay home if you have symptoms resembling allergies or colds. We know that this variant of COVID is extremely spreadable, and there’s no way to predict who will get very sick or have long-lasting impacts,” said Kelly Chandler, Itasca County Public Health division manager.

If you have questions or concerns call 218-327-6784.