The state health department has confirmed 13 additional cases of COVID-19 today, bringing the statewide total to 58.
To date, 2,261 people have been tested. 11 patients have been hospitalized.
Governor Doug Burgum says North Dakota is a bit behind where other states are in terms of cases of COVID-19, but the situation is becoming more and more taxing on health care systems throughout the country. So far there have been about 80,000 cases in the United States, with about 1,000 deaths. Burgum says the North Dakota case count is always broken down by county, but it doesn't really matter if your county hasn't had any official cases reported.
"By the end of next week, it's likely to assume if you look at other places and the rate of spread, we will have positive cases in every county in the state. That's just the way we're going to be going."
Burgum says social distancing rules still apply to everyone - avoid contact with others if you or someone in your household has symptoms or is being tested for COVID-19. If you are older or have underlying health conditions, limit your contact with others. And don't gather in groups of ten or more people, while staying at least six feet away from others. Frequent hand washing is also encouraged.
Burgum says residents returning to North Dakota from "hot zones" such as college students from spring break or snowbirds are being encouraged to stay home for 14 days after their arrival back.
