Mankato Clinic Opens Respiratory Clinic
Sunday, March 22, 2020
(Mankato—March 18, 2020) Mankato Clinic, together with the South Central Healthcare Coalition, is actively responding to coronavirus (COVID-19) and working to prevent the spread of the virus in our community.
The Minnesota Department of Health recommends discontinuing testing to prioritize healthcare resources to meet the needs of critically ill patients. Our primary objectives are to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and treat those most in need of immediate medical attention. With this goal in mind, Mankato Clinic is closing its drive-thru COVID-19 testing location at 4 p.m. today, March 18, 2020.
For people concerned that they may have contracted COVID-19, CDC’s recommendation is that you should stay home for at least 7 days, and for 3 days with no fever and improvement of respiratory symptoms—whichever is longer. Your fever should be gone for 3 days without using fever-reducing medicine. In terms of prevention, people should continue to cover their cough, stay home when they are sick and wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If you are experiencing a fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath and need medical care, please call the Mankato Clinic COVID-19 Hotline to speak to a nurse at 507-389-8548. If medical care is necessary, you will receive instructions on how to receive care at Mankato Clinic.
In response to this unprecedented global pandemic, the Mankato Clinic is designating the North Mankato Clinic as a Respiratory Clinic. After calling the COVID-19 hotline, all patients who need medical care and are experiencing a fever or respiratory symptoms will be directed to the North Mankato Clinic where they can be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Consolidating care for patients experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to one clinic is an effective strategy to control the spread of the virus and to keep our patients safe while receiving care at other Mankato Clinic locations.
“If symptoms are mild, we encourage you to treat yourself at home,” Dr. Andrew Lundquist, Mankato Clinic Chief Medical Officer, said. “If you have questions regarding your symptoms, we are asking patients to seek care by calling the Mankato Clinic COVID-19 Hotline. We understand that people may require medical attention. Rest assured, we are here to care for people who need care for this virus.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, patients with COVID-19 have experienced mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of a fever, cough or shortness of breath. Some patients have experienced muscle aches, headache, sore throat or diarrhea. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.
“By devoting the North Mankato Clinic to care solely for patients experiencing respiratory illness, we can continue to care for all patients who still require essential healthcare services for other needs. As your community healthcare provider, we are taking every precaution to care for you and your loved ones during this critical time,” Dr. Lundquist said. “We are following best practices and guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.”
In addition, Mankato Clinic is taking extra precautions including pre-screening patients for illness prior to appointments, allowing only one family member to accompany patients if a family member or caregiver is needed, practicing social distancing in waiting rooms and lobbies and disinfecting lobbies and high-touch surfaces frequently.
“The safety, health and well-being our patients, staff and communities continues to be our top priority during this critical time,” Randy Farrow, Mankato Clinic CEO, said.
This is a rapidly changing situation. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit: