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Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) -  A second person from the Rochester area has tested positive for the new coronavirus (COVID-19).

Olmsted County Public Health says the person has a known history of travel to a high-risk area and did not require hospitalization. The individual is isolating at home and recovering.

Earlier Sunday, the state Health Department reported an additional 13 new cases, including one from Waseca County. The total number of positive coronavirus cases in Minnesota as of Sunday was 35. More than 1400 samples had been tested, including dozens at Mayo Clinic Laboratories.

Noteworthy development:

According to the Olmsted County Public Health Department, three of the new cases did not have recent travel out of the state or any known exposures to a COVID-19 case, indicating community transmission. These cases are in Ramsey, Hennepin and Dakota counties. Community transmission means we now have evidence that COVID-19 is circulating in certain MN communities (those identified) and likely others.

As cases continue to emerge, it is even more important for people who are 70 and older, or people of any age who have underlying health conditions that put them at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, should stay at home and avoid gatherings or other situations of potential exposures, including travel.

Sunday morning, Governor Tim Walz authorized the temporary closure of Minnesota K-12 public schools to students by March 18 through March 27 in order for school administrators and teachers to make long-term plans during the COVID-19 pandemic. See individual plans for SE Minnesota school closings here.

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