Mayo Clinic Suggests COVID Test for Those Attending Trump Rally

UPDATE: President Trump's rally was moved to Dodge Center, and is now reportedly being moved back to Rochester.

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - As preparations continue for a visit to Rochester by President Donald Trump on Friday, the Mayo Clinic is urging caution for anyone considering attending the event in light of the pandemic.

President Trump's reelection campaign announced Wednesday that he would be speaking to supporters at a rally late Friday afternoon at the Rochester Airport. Previous rally appearances by the President in other Minnesota cities have attracted thousands of people and have raised concerns among state health officials about the potential spread of COVID-19.

KROC News asked The Mayo Clinic about the public health risks associated with the Trump campaign rally on Friday and they issued this statement:

“Mayo Clinic supports the state of Minnesota's COVID-19 guidelines, which were put in place to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and protect the public's health. Preventive measures such as masking, good hand hygiene and social distancing are essential steps to stop the spread of the virus, protect our communities and our neighbors. Community members who choose to attend a large event that exceeds recommended guidelines should contact their healthcare provider and be evaluated for possible COVID-19 testing.”

The testing taking place in the Rochester area indicates COVID-19 activity is likely the highest it has been since the start of the pandemic. The latest weekly update from Olmsted Public Health shows testing identified 211 new COVID-19 cases during the week that ended October 19th. That was just one case below the highest weekly total to date which was recorded during the third week of September.

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