State health officials on Feb. 27 outlined South Dakota’s steps to prepare for community spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), as well as what South Dakotans can do now. To date, no one in South Dakota has tested positive for COVID-19.

“Since the start of this outbreak, South Dakota has taken steps to prepare for and carefully monitor for potential cases of COVID-19 in South Dakota,” said Kim Malsam-Rysdon, secretary of the South Dakota Department of Health.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has advised states to be prepared for community spread of COVID-19. The Department of Health is working with partners to ensure South Dakota is prepared to respond. 

“For the general public, the immediate health risk from COVID-19 is low,” said Dr. Joshua Clayton, state epidemiologist. “However, we know that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the same family emergency plans and kits that we use to prepare for the flu, snowstorms and floods are important now. South Dakotans can help stop the spread of germs by washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, cleaning surfaces regularly and staying home if you are sick.”

Read more about the steps the state has taken on the South Dakota Department of Health's website. More information and updates will also be posted to this website.