On Friday we learned that a person in Lincoln County tested positive for COVID-19. That should be a wake-up call for those in southwest Minnesota not following distant socializing guidelines

It’s true that so far, Southwest Health and Human Services has reported no positive cases in Lyon County. However, SWHHS warns us that’s not a reason to put our guard down. Director Carol Biren told the Independent that It’s likely the coronavirus is circulating in our communities.

“With more cases being confirmed in Minnesota and the nation, it was only a matter of time before the virus was in our area,” Biren said.

More evidence the virus is threatening our region was reported by the New Ulm Journal website on Monday. Martin Luther College, located in New Ulm, announced its president Mark Zarling was diagnosed with COVID-19.

Biren urges residents to continue to follow the best practices to slow the spread of COVID-19, including washing their hands. Following social distancing and staying home is the only way to beat back this virus from our communities.

We believe most residents are staying home as much as possible. A poll conducted on the Independent website (marshallindependent.com) March 25-30 indicates that trend. The poll asked: Are you staying home as much as possible? Out of the 514 votes, 93% voted yes. Unfortunately, 35 people took the time to admitting they are not following social distancing. While we understand this poll is far from being considered scientific, it’s still worrisome that some people are not taking this coronavirus pandemic serious.

And that’s putting the rest of us in danger.