From Cook County MN - May 26, 2020

At Tuesday’s meeting for Discussion and Action Related to COVID-19 Pandemic Response, the Cook County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to issue a revised travel advisory for those planning to visit Cook County.

The advisory reads as follows:

Cook County Travel Advisory – May 26, 2020, Revision

This is a revision to a travel advisory issued by the Cook County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic. The County Board above all advises that all residents and visitors abide by the most recent Executive Orders issued by the governor.

In keeping with Gov. Tim Walz’s actions on May 13 to move Minnesota from “Stay at Home” to “Stay Safe” and his subsequent actions to gradually and cautiously “turn the dial” toward a more open economy, the Cook County Board of Commissioners issues this travel advisory for persons planning to visit Cook County.

Please take seriously the guidance from Gov. Walz to protect workers, visitors and our communities while gradually reopening our economy in a safe and respectful manner.

• Businesses have developed plans to operate safely.  Access to businesses may be limited and may require that individuals wear face coverings.  Grocery store procedures currently vary from limited entry to curbside pick-up only.
• While restaurants remain closed to inside dining, many have established curbside and take-out service, with possible outside dining to follow June 1.  Patience and adherence to posted public health policies are requested as restaurants work to serve guests as safely as possible.  
• Visitors are asked to please respect new policies at places of lodging to protect the health of both workers and guests.  As of May 26, 2020, both public and private developed campgrounds remain closed to recreational camping but dispersed and remote camping sites (such as BWCA campsites) are open for single household use only.
• Cook County is home to a very large population of people who are at high risk of complications of COVID-19, including elders and those with compromised immune systems. Visitors are asked to help us protect the health of our community by rigorous adherence to social distancing, wearing face coverings and washing hands.  Visitors who are feeling sick before they arrive should stay home. Visitors who get here and start to feel sick should call Sawtooth Mountain Clinic at 218-387-2330 or their regular health care provider.  Your regular health care team can offer you continuity of care.  For emergencies please dial 911.
• This is an everchanging and very serious health situation. Cook County needs to be diligent in its response and will change this advisory as needed. 

For the most current information related to Cook County’s COVID-19 response, including information about business hours and services, please visit:www.cookcountycovid19.org.