Positivity Rate For COVID-19 Climbs to 9% in Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- The positivity rate for coronavirus tests increased to 9% Tuesday in Minnesota, after previously hovering around 5%, an unwelcome sign that the disease is spreading rapidly in the state.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 3,483 new positive cases and 15 additional deaths compared to Monday.

A total of 157,096 people have been infected with COVID-19 in Minnesota and 2,499 people have died.

Health officials are concerned about the rising number of cases that involve hospital admittance. Minnesota hospitals on Tuesday reported a record 852 people with COVID-19, including 197 people who needed intensive care due to breathing problems or other complications.