Good morning, Nooga. ☀️ Trista here, and it’s time for the monthly COVID-19 rundown. I know, it’s not fun to talk about this, but it’s important for us to keep it in mind as businesses reopen, schools discuss plans for the fall, and summer slips by. Right now, Hamilton County is averaging 100 new cases a day, so for now, we need to stay vigilant.

All right, let’s talk. 👇

By the numbers (as of 5 p.m. Thursday)

○ Total number of tests in Hamilton County: 50,695

○ Negative tests: 46,756

○ Positive tests: 3,939

○ Deaths: 39

○ Age group with the most cases: 21-30, 862 cases

*These numbers may include negative results outside of Hamilton County + there is a delay in reporting negative results.

How to protect yourself + others

○ Wear a mask. Properly wearing a cloth face covering is a great way to slow the spread of COVID-19. One of the fastest ways the virus spreads is through face-to- face interactions — respiratory droplets can transfer from one person to another easily without a face covering.

DYK — The CDC reported that the U.S. could get this virus under control in 1-2 months if everyone would wear a mask. Doesn’t that sound nice?

○ Wash your hands. Hand washing removes pathogens that can cause disease, including COVID-19. When soap + water isn’t available, hand sanitizer is a good replacement.

○ Keep your distance. When you’re out + about, do your best to stay at least six feet away from others who aren’t from your household. It’s recommended to stay home as often as possible.

○ Know the symptoms. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, nausea + more. If you experience any of these symptoms and have been around people who aren’t in your household, it’s recommended that you get tested.

Where to get tested

○ The Hamilton County Health Department is offering free testing — you can check the locations here.

○ Many urgent care centers offering testing as well. Some allow walk-ins, others require an appointment.

○ Cempa Community Care has also been offering free testing — you can keep up with when + where they are testing here.

I got tested today, Thursday July 16, at Brainerd High School and it was quick + easy. Watch me get tested.

By the numbers (as of 5 p.m. Thursday)

How to protect yourself + others

Where to get tested

Quiz