If you think you should be tested, your first step should be to contact your medical provider. 

Who should get tested

If you do not have a medical provider or have other reasons for needing to be tested, there are free testing options that are open to anyone:

Where to find a free test

Register for a free saliva test

Request a free at-home saliva test kit

COVID-19, also known as the 2019 Novel Coronavirus or 2019-nCoV, is a new respiratory virus that the World Health Organization has declared a pandemic.

Information on symptoms, how it spreads, and how to protect yourself.

The first Covid-19 case in the United States was confirmed in January, and the first case in Minnesota was confirmed March 6. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) provides a daily situation update. 

The first presumptive case of COVID-19 in St. Louis County was announced March 21.

• Practice social distancing
• Wear a mask
• If you’re sick, stay home
• Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer
• Cover coughs and sneezes using a tissue or elbow
• Avoid touching face and mouth
• Clean frequently touched surfaces often using a regular household detergent and water. This includes countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles.
• Additional recommendations from MDH

Per the Governor’s Executive Order, face coverings are required to be worn in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces, unless alone.  Additionally, workers are required to wear a face covering when working outdoors in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained. Masks must cover both nose and mouth. Learn more.

For violations by restaurants and food service establishments, pools, or lodging services: Use the MDH Online Complaint Form.

To ask questions or report violations that relate to worker health and safety: Contact the Department of Labor and Industry by email at osha.compliance@state.mn.us or call 651-284-5050 or 1-877-470-6742.

St. Louis County Public Health follows the guidance of the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We use this information as we work closely with cities/townships, school districts, the medical community, and community service providers.

Our role has continually evolved throughout this pandemic as new needs have been identified. Our responsibilities range from education - providing accurate information to people about the risk, signs or symptoms to watch for, and how best to protect yourself and your family - to offering COVID testing opportunities, to administering vaccines. Our Sheriff’s Emergency Management team is also very involved as we work to best serving our citizens.

For clinical questions about the COVID-19 virus, such as identifying symptoms or whether testing is needed:

Essentia Health 1-833-494-0836

For non-clinical questions, such as preventative steps to take or anything travel-related:

St. Louis County Public Health COVID-19 information phone line: 218-625-3600. Our Public Health team will answer and return calls Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Minnesota Department of Health hotline: 

651-297-1304 or 1-800-657-3504