More restrictions likely ahead: Walz to again address state Tuesday as hospitals strain, officials urge Minnesotans to stay home
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Gov. Tim Walz will address the state Tuesday, again calling on Minnesotans to do what they can to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Walz is making his latest address after he said new mitigation efforts may be needed.
The governor has been warning Minnesotans for a while now, letting them know if the virus gets out of hand, more restrictions will be put in place.
After Monday’s briefing, it’s clear he and top health officials believe the state is at that point.
Monday, Walz was also joined by nurses on the frontlines, who say hospitals are filling up and healthcare workers are getting burned out.
Gov. Tim Walz speaks during a news conference with frontline workers Monday, Nov. 16, 2020[KSTP-TV]
Health officials said, last week, the state was at roughly 200,000 positive cases and they estimate to see 300,000 by next week.
Additionally, they said hospitalizations are up 90% in the last 10 days.
Potential new restrictions are currently unknown, but state leaders did hint at a few concerns, including youth sports.
Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said she wants a pause on high school sports, highlighting that there have been multiple break-outs on youth and high school teams.
Walz said he and the health department have been working with multiple models over the last couple of weeks, to try and predict how best to restrict the state.
With the holiday season upon us, the guidance is now to keep those social gatherings to your immediate households and to take advantage of free COVID-19 tests.
Tuesday’s address is set to take place at 2 p.m.
Stay with 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS and KSTP.com for updates.