September 29, 2021
COVID-19 in Our Communities: Facts & Figures
Having accurate and up-to-date information is so important as we work together to beat this pandemic. Here’s a snapshot of positivity rates, inpatient volumes and staff impact for CentraCare and Carris Health.
Positivity rates
As of Sept. 29, the COVID-19 positivity rate among tests conducted by CentraCare and Carris Health facilities, is 12.5%. By comparison, the COVID-19 positivity rate for the entire state of Minnesota for that same time period is 6.6%, indicating more rapid spread among the communities we serve. For perspective, the Minnesota Department of Health has warned that a positivity rate above 5% indicates rapid spread of COVID-19 in the community.
Inpatient impact
The increased spread of COVID-19 in our communities is also reflected in the increased number of patients requiring hospitalization for complications from COVID-19. As of Sept. 27, there are 75 patients with COVID-19 in our hospitals (CentraCare and Carris Health). Of those patients, 64 are unvaccinated and 11 are vaccinated. In addition, 20 of these patients require ICU care and 16 of those are currently on ventilators.
Staffing impact
This increased COVID-19 positivity rate, which is more than double the target threshold established by the Minnesota Department of Health, is also impacting our staffing. As of Sept. 27, CentraCare and Carris Health had 54 employees test positive for COVID-19 and another 16 employees who were considered high-risk exposure. The number of employees who have tested positive for COVID-19 has continued to increase over the past two months as noted in the chart below:
Working together
Our goal is to beat COVID together, and the best path forward is through vaccination and public health measures such as masking, social distancing and hygiene. Thank you to the more than 70% of staff who have already chosen to get vaccinated, which is vital to protecting each other, our patients and our community. If you have questions or concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine and want to talk to a clinician, you can schedule a confidential meeting here. If you would like to schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment, call Employee Health Services at (320) 251-2700, ext. 55634.