COVID continues to spread in Cook County as peak of holiday season nears

The case count for COVID-19 continues to climb in Cook County, with local public health officials reporting at least 13 active cases among local residents at this time. At least 354 local residents have tested positive for the virus since the onset of the pandemic.
 
Around the region, 16 people in northeastern Minnesota died between Dec. 3-9 from COVID-19.
 
As the pandemic continues toward the end of 2021, Gov. Tim Walz declared Dec. 8 a day to recognize the hard work and dedication of those working in public health across Minnesota.
 
“This is an opportunity to recognize the valuable work performed by all Cook County Public Health & Human Services staff throughout the year,” said Alison McIntyre, the director of the Cook County Public Health & Human Services Department.
 
During the COVID-19 pandemic, McIntyre said the PHHS staff have been on the front lines of response work and are continuing to provide essential community services.
 
Cook County Public Health Supervisor Grace Grinager spoke with WTIP’s Joe Friedrichs during the Daybreak program on Dec. 10. The audio to their conversation is shared below.