What is circulating in Minnesota right now
Across Minnesota, emergency departments and clinics are seeing increases in several respiratory viruses, most notably respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Respiratory viruses typically rise during fall and winter, and this year is no exception. While COVID-19 rates have declined from earlier peaks, continued community transmission means the virus remains active in many counties. RSV, especially among young children and older adults, is driving more visits for breathing difficulties. Influenza activity is also increasing in some areas, with early-season strain A(H3N2) noted. Residents are advised to stay up to date on vaccinations, monitor symptoms, and use at-home tests when appropriate to protect vulnerable household members.
Which viruses are currently reported in Minnesota
State-level surveillance from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) indicates multiple viruses are contributing to recent illness. Key patterns include:
| Virus | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) | Continued community transmission with periodic increases | MDH surveillance and CDC data |
| RSV | Elevated detections in outpatient and inpatient settings | MDH respiratory virus reports |
| Influenza | Increasing activity, A(H3N2) strain prominent | MDH and national flu surveillance |
| Other respiratory viruses | Rhinovirus/enterovirus and adenovirus detections | Clinical lab reports |
These trends are seasonal and can shift quickly as immunity and behaviors change. People experiencing severe symptoms should contact a healthcare provider for guidance and testing options.
Common symptoms to watch for
- Fever or chills
- Cough and shortness of breath
- Fatigue and muscle or body aches
- Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat
- Headache and, in some cases, gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea
Because symptoms overlap across viruses, testing is the most reliable way to identify the cause. Rapid at-home tests for COVID-19 can also detect flu in some combined assays, while RSV typically requires clinical or lab testing. If symptoms worsen or breathing becomes difficult, seek medical care promptly, especially for infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions.
When to test and which test to use
Testing is most useful early in illness, especially if you plan to visit high-risk individuals or return to in-person work or school. Consider a COVID-19 test if:
- You have symptoms even if mild
- You’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive
- You will be around infants, older adults, or immunocompromised people
For RSV and flu, clinicians may use nasal swab tests in office or recommend PCR testing for more sensitive results. At-home tests are widely available at pharmacies and grocery stores and can usually detect COVID-19 and sometimes flu. Follow instructions carefully and consider repeating a test a day or two apart if the first result is negative but symptoms persist.
Where to get tested in Minnesota
Testing options across Minnesota include clinics, urgent care centers, hospitals, and pharmacies. Many locations offer both PCR and rapid antigen tests, and some provide at-home test kits for pickup or delivery. Free or low-cost testing may be available through local public health programs, community health centers, and federally qualified health centers. To find a site near you, you can visit the MDH testing resource page or call your local health department. If you have private insurance, most plans cover COVID-19 and flu testing with little to no cost sharing.
Prevention and household strategies
Reducing spread starts with simple, consistent habits, especially when viruses are circulating. Key actions include:
- Stay up to date on vaccinations, including COVID-19 boosters and annual flu shots
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap is not available
- Improve ventilation by opening windows and using air filtration where possible
- Wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor spaces or when around vulnerable people
- Stay home when sick and avoid close contact with others who are ill
Households with young children, older adults, or people who are immunocompromised may benefit from designating a separate bedroom and bathroom for the sick person, using separate towels and utensils, and increasing cleaning frequency of high-touch surfaces.