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COVID-19 Resources

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the agricultural sector in the Upper Midwest with new health and safety concerns, supply chain disruptions, and consumer demand changes.

Agricultural workplaces should consider COVID-19 prevention and response practices in health and safety planning.

ABOUT COVID-19

WHAT IS IT AND WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some become severely ill. Older adults and people with certain underlying medical conditions are more likely to get severely ill. While most people with COVID-19 get better within a few weeks, it is possible to experience post-COVID conditions. These conditions include a wide range of health problems and can occur four or more weeks after being infected. Even those who do not become severely ill from COVID-19 may experience post-COVID conditions.
WHO IS AT INCREASED RISK?

Some farmers and farmworkers may be at increased risk for severe illness, including people who:

  • are 65 years and older
  • have underlying medical conditions;
  • lack healthcare coverage
  • are unvaccinated
  • are non-English speaking or have low literacy levels which may limit their ability to access information about worksite procedures and policies
  • live in high-density housing, crowded living situations, multi-generational housing, or in other circumstances that would make it difficult to isolate cases.
  • belong to racial and ethnic minority groups disproportionately affected by COVID-19 because of discrimination, socioeconomic status, barriers to accessing healthcare, and increased exposure to the virus due to occupation

COVID-19 RESOURCES

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. 

It is important to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, which means receiving all recommended doses in the series of COVID-19 vaccine. 

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Getting tested for COVID-19 is an important way to protect your community and get treated if necessary.

Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or had close contact to someone with COVID-19. Treatments may be available for people with COVID-19 who are at risk of becoming very sick. Testing may also be helpful or required before traveling or attending a large gathering. 

Slow the spread of COVID-19 with basic preventative measures.

Additional Resources

COVID-19 Resources for Agricultural Populations
For more information about COVID-19

UMASH RESOURCES