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By Tom Coombe from the Ely Echo - May 12, 2020

Ely has its first publicly confirmed case of coronavirus.

The Ely DQ Grill and Chill will close temporarily for deep cleaning and all of its employees were tested today, after the owner of the Ely business was notified late last night that one of his employees had tested positive for COVID-19.

The victim, who has not been identified, has not worked a shift since May 4 and is under self-quarantine at home, owner Paul Ivancich said this morning. 

Ivancich said that all 14 employees of the business were notified, and with the cooperation of Essentia Health and Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital, all were subsequently tested.

“We are closing to deep clean out of an abundance of caution to protect our community," said Ivancich. “Our highest priority is the health and well-being of our employees and guests and we are following Centers for Disease Control and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines."

The DQ Grill and Chill has been among several Ely dining establishments open for drive-through and take-out service during the coronavirus pandemic. Ivancich said that all employees have been required to wear gloves and face coverings, with gloves changed every half-hour and hands being washed on an hourly basis.

Ivancich said he is hopeful that the business could reopen at the end of the week.

“The Ely DQ Grill and Chill will reopen upon consult of medical providers,” said Ivancich. “We thank you for your support during this difficult time."

To read the orignal article and see related reporting, follow ti slink to the Ely Echo website.  https://www.elyecho.com/articles/2020/05/11/ely-has-first-publicly-confirmed-case-coronavirus