Media Contact: Jenna Bowman
Communications & Engagement Manager
Direct: 507-328-2913   E-mail: jbowman@rochestermn.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The City of Rochester Prepares for COVID-19 - Coronavirus
February 28, 2020 - ROCHESTER, MINN. – For the past month, City of Rochester teammates have been
working with organizational partners, including Olmsted County, Rochester Public Schools, Olmsted
Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester International Airport and others to monitor and take the
necessary steps to prepare for the novel Coronavirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) recommends reviewing the Pandemic plans to prepare for the potential of significant disruption
by the COVID-19 virus. The City of Rochester has a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) that includes a
Pandemic Annex. Each department has COOP team members who will update the plan, attend training,
and participate in exercises to prepare for disruption.
The City of Rochester continues to work closely with Olmsted County Public Health Services. Under the
City’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), Ken Jones, Director of Emergency Management, is the
designed point-of-contact for the City.
Jones shares, “The City of Rochester is working proactively with Olmsted County Public Health Services
and other community partners to prepare for the possibility of COVID-19 virus. We know that more

can be accomplished by working together in a coordinated way. As a City, we are taking steps
to ensure our services continue to operate.”
Rochester residents are encouraged to take three main steps. The first is to be informed. The
latest information can be found from Olmsted County Public Health, Minnesota Department of
Health, and the Center for Disease Prevention and Control. The second step is to reduce your
risk of getting spreading COVID-19 virus. This includes taking precautionary measures like a
person would for cold and the flu. Examples include staying home when you are sick, cover
your cough and sneeze and practicing good hand washing with soap and water for at least 20
seconds. Finally, if you have questions or concerns, please contact the appropriate agency.
The City of Rochester does offer an emergency alert system, Rochester Alert. Residents and
visitors can sign up for free by visiting the Rochester Alert page. The City of Rochester will
continue to work closely with other agencies to provide additional updates and information as
it is available and applicable.
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