PIERRE, S.D. – State Health officials announced Monday, April 13, that two separate employees at two different Walmart locations in Sioux Falls have tested positive for COVID-19. The individuals reported working while able to transmit the virus to others.
An employee in the electronics department at Walmart #3237 on Arrowhead Parkway in Sioux Falls reported working April 4 through April 7 while able to transmit the virus. The employee worked during these times:
- Saturday, April 4 – 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday, April 5 – 4 pm-10 pm
- Monday, April 6 – 5 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday, April 7 – 5 pm-10 pm
A separate individual and employee who works as a cashier at Walmart #2443 on S. Minnesota Ave in Sioux Falls reported working April 4 and April 5 while able to transmit the virus. The employee worked during these times:
- Saturday, April 4 – 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday, April 5 – 10 am-7 pm
Due to the risk of exposure, customers who visited these Walmart locations during the specified dates should monitor for symptoms for 14 days after the date they visited. A CDC screening tool is available at COVID.SD.GOV, which can help recommend when to call your medical provider if you develop symptoms.
State Health officials remind all South Dakotans to:
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
· Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
· Refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
· Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects.
· Individuals at higher risk for severe COVID-19 illness, such as older adults and people who have chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease, should take actions to reduce your risk of exposure.
· Create a family plan to prepare for COVID-19 and develop a stay at home kit with food, water, medication, and other necessary items.
If you develop symptoms:
· Call your health care provider immediately.
· Individuals who are concerned they have COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider via phone before going to a clinic or hospital to prevent spread in healthcare facilities.
· Avoid contact with other people.
· Follow the directions of your provider and public health officials.
For more information and updates related to COVID-19 visit the COVID.SD.GOV or CDC.gov or call 1-800-997-2880.
Press release from the South Dakota Department of Health