Carris Health – Redwood now assessing all patients for COVID-19 (coronavirus)

Carris Health – Redwood, and CentraCare, are currently assessing all patients for risk of COVID-19, formerly known as coronavirus, and preparing for a potential outbreak in Central Minnesota.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, at this time, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is considered low for those who haven’t been exposed. And the risk of coming into contact with a person also remains low. 

A statement from Carris Health – Redwood released Thursday stated, “Our health care providers are trained to manage infectious diseases, including new infectious diseases like this strain.”

Dr. George Morris, Vice President of Performance Excellence and Incident Commander of CentraCare’s preparedness efforts, stated, “We are monitoring our supply inventory and working with local state and federal health officials to be prepared for a potential outbreak.”

“If you are sick, stay home. If you think you need to be seen, call first. Don’t just show up at the ER,” said Dr. Morris. “When calling our clinics and hospitals, we have health care professionals who can help determine if you should be seen, in person.”

Carris Health and CentraCare are working with the Minnesota Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak.