Gov. Walz unveils new state website, outlines state’s priorities in responding to COVID-19

Friday, Gov. Tim Walz unveiled a new State of Minnesota COVID-19 dashboard that tracks the virus in the state and provides the latest data on available ventilators, ICU beds, personal protective equipment (PPE) and testing. The dashboard will be updated daily and is available on the state's website.

“During Minnesota’s stay home order, we’ve worked to collect data, increase the availability of necessary equipment and develop strategies to address economic and social impacts of COVID-19,” said Walz in a statement. “This dashboard will provide Minnesotans with timely, accurate information about the data that informs our decisions on COVID-19 response, recovery, and resources.”

The governor also addressed how there are still challenges in this process. Walz said there is still limited data on the virus, that no models or predictions are perfect and states and countries are competing against each other for ventilators and supplies. He added that no state can buy everything it needs.

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“We’ve been working around the clock during this stay home order to increase hospital capacity and better track the spread of this virus,” Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said. “This dashboard will help Minnesotans see the virus’s impact on Minnesota and the data that drives our response to COVID-19.” 

Walz added that the "peak is yet to come," regarding lab-confirmed cases in the state. But said the stay at home order is helping slow that process and spread.

During Minnesota’s stay home order, Minnesota’s priorities have been to collect data about COVID-19; increase the number of ICU beds, ventilators, and PPE needed to care for a surge in patients; and develop strategies to address the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 in the state. Walz has formed workgroups to focus on critical response and recovery work, including hospital surge capacity, supplies, testing and education and child care.