Covid-19 numbers have jumped dramatically nationwide in the late couple of weeks, and the North Country is no exception. On Friday, Kev Jackson talked with Dr. Colleen Swank, Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota’s Vice President of Clinic. At that point, total cases in Beltrami County had jumped to 41. Four days later, it was up to 62.
Swank said it was very important to return to the safety procedures most were doing at the outset. She noted that as case numbers stayed low, weather warmed up and businesses began to open up, it was easy to fall into a feeling of “normal”. But the recent surge in cases has snapped many back to reality.
She noted that most information and studies now show that mask wearing is effective in slowing down the spread of Covid-19, even though early on it was suggested otherwise. She noted that changing information is not unusual with a new virus the mask debate is definitely part of that.
Swank also noted that rumors were swirling that Covid testing cost patients $140, but that is not the case. Insurance companies will pay for the testing and Sanford Health has programs and funds to cover the costs for those without insurance.
As the number of cases continues to grow, one thing is apparent, Covid-19 isn’t going anywhere yet. Listen to the interview:
