New COVID testing communication from MDH

Minnesotans who test positive for COVID-19 will get a text from the Minnesota Department of Health to the number they gave when they got tested. The text asks for an email address to send important health information about how long to stay home and when it is safe to return to work, school, or other activities. The email also includes a link to a brief case investigation survey. 

• The text will come from 877-790-8031. If a person does not respond to the initial text, they will receive a follow-up text from the same number. Responding to the text and email is important for helping MDH learn more about COVID-19 and how it is spreading.
• Due to the high number of COVID-19 cases in Minnesota, case investigators are not able to call and interview everyone who tests positive. Texting allows case investigators to reach people quickly and to provide important health information to slow the spread of COVID-19. 
• Minnesotans who test positive and use the COVIDAware app also have the option to enter a verification code to anonymously let others know they tested positive. That way other people who have the app on their phone will get an alert to let them know they were exposed, so they can quarantine if needed. If a person does not receive a verification code with their positive test result, they may call 833- 431-2053 to ask for one.