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Governor asks state not to become complacent about virus spread

“Contact tracing” might help the state keep better track of people who have been in contact with someone who tested positive for the novel coronavirus and let everyone else go back to work more quickly, Gov. Doug Burgum said during his daily briefing on Monday.

Burgum said some 123 people at health departments across the state have been trained to do contact tracing and others in the private sector are likely to receive the training.

North Dakota is fortunate so far to have a fairly low number of people who have tested positive for the virus, but Burgum said that is not a reason for people in the state to become complacent.

As of Monday afternoon, 33 people in the state have tested positive for the new coronavirus and four people have been hospitalized with serious symptoms.

Burgum said that testing is available for those who need it. People who have been in contact with someone who has tested positive or who have traveled to a “hot zone” where there are a lot of coronavirus cases should be tested, as should first responders and health care providers. People should contact their medical providers in advance if they believe they should be tested for the new coronavirus. Burgum reiterated that people should always call in advance and should not just show up at a medical facility if they have symptoms of the virus. People who feel sick, have been exposed to the virus or are waiting for test results should remain at home in self isolation, as should their families. They should call for assistance if they suddenly develop shortness of breath or other signs that the disease is worsening and they need hospitalization.

Burgum said the state’s strategy is to try to “flatten the curve” so that coronavirus cases are spread out over a longer period of time and the health care system is not overwhelmed with too many serious cases at a time.

Every day that there is not a large increase in coronavirus cases gives the state more time to plan, said Burgum.

Burgum said medical providers are assessing medical supplies and the number of medical personnel that will be available in the state.

Burgum also said planning is underway regarding child care, particularly for children of essential workers, and to alter requirements regarding how much space is needed for childcare to better allow for physical distancing. That will likely require day cares to hire more child-care providers. Financial assistance from the state to help pay for the increased demand will likely be available.

Burgum encouraged people in the state to maintain physical distancing to help slow down the spread of the virus, but to stay in social contact with friends and family via phone calls, video chat, email and old-fashioned letters.

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