This story was originally published on March 5, 2021
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Health officials in Minnesota are encouraging a two-week break from youth sports in Carver County due to a burgeoning outbreak of the UK’s COVID-19 variant.
Since the end of January, the Minnesota Department of Health has discovered at least 68 COVID-19 cases related to club sports, including hockey, wrestling, basketball, and downhill skiing, among others. Of the 68 cases, 24 are confirmed cases of the B117 variant, which was first identified in the UK. Officials have also seen an increase in cases related to gyms and fitness centers in Carver County.
“We have seen an increase in the number of cases, particularly those under 20,” said Dr. Ruth Lynfield, an MDH Epidemiologist. She said none of the cases in student athletes are serious, but she was worried they might spread the virus to coaches and other teams they play.
According to the MDH, there was a 62% increase in variant cases between February 24 and March 4. In addition to the 24 confirmed cases of the B117 variant, 18 cases have been associated with one or more B117 cases and there are ongoing results. A further 26 cases have been associated with confirmed B117 cases. Many people with the variant attended school or sports activities while they were contagious, and the outbreak affects multiple schools.
Inbox: @mnhealth says there is a cluster of the UK variants linked to youth sports in Carver County.
To keep the spread in check, health officials are recommending a two-week break from Monday for youth sports, according to a press release. @WCCO pic.twitter.com/rEnbqOChYS
– Caroline Cummings (@CaroRCummings) March 5, 2021
To stem the spread, health officials are recommending a break from youth sports starting Monday.
“MDH recommends active screening for symptoms for youth sports elsewhere in Minnesota, and we recommend weekly testing for athletes and coaches,” said Dr. Lynfield.
MDH encourages schools in Carver County to adopt a hybrid learning model and consider taking a break from other extracurricular activities. Gyms in the area are encouraged to adhere to strict screening and wearing of masks, and to have breaks in group classes.
In an email to families late Friday night, the Chaska-Chanhassen Hockey Association said it will allow athletes to play until there is a direct order to stop.
“This is a race against time,” said Governor Tim Walz at a news conference on Friday. “You will see that we see clusters of B117 outbreaks popping up. And that is the British variant that presents us with a number of challenges. We gotta beat that thing before it gets a foothold. “
The variant isn’t just a Carver County problem, though. MDH says there are 165 cases of the B117 variant in 15 counties in Minnesota. Eight of those cases required hospitalizations, and one Minnesota died. MDH says the variant’s symptoms are similar to the original virus.
Research on sports cases and outbreaks will continue, MDH says.