City of Mankato
Answers to frequently-asked questions related to COVID-19 (coronavirus)
A note from City Manager Patrick Hentges:
Mankato is committed to continuing essential 24-hour operations. The City of Mankato has been monitoring the latest developments about the Cornoavirus (COVID-19). A priority remains to protect and preserve public safety and people in city facilities and vehicles.
The City of Mankato has a Continuity of Operations Plan in place to assure essential service. The operations plan has been tailored to COVID-19.
What is COVID-19?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 is a new viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus. Currently, there are a small number of confirmed cases in Minnesota. View fast facts about COVID-19 (coronavirus).
How is the City of Mankato preparing?
City of Mankato officials are working with South Central Healthcare Coalition to ensure preparedness to best serve people in this region on this public health response. Partners include area schools, counties and health system providers.
In recent years, Mankato budgeted in the event of unanticipated emergency situations. Depending on the scope of this emergency, it’s possible this may be expanded.
What is a Continuity of Operations Plan?
The city’s emergency plan is flexible and scalable so it can adjust as necessary based on the advice of public health officials and as needed. The plan prioritizes critical first-response in service areas such as police, fire, water and wastewater utilities, public works operations and street maintenance.
What is an example of a preparedness effort specific to this situation?
The city has adjusted cleaning protocols in city vehicles and buildings.
For the past several years, the city has integrated technology into direct service work and many city service areas can perform work remotely.
Will activities or events be canceled at the civic center due to COVID-19?
Initiative has been taken by several people who have booked events at the civic center to cancel events due health officials’ recommendation of social distancing as a preventative strategy.
What actions should we take for protection?
The Minnesota Department of Health indicates basic health preventions are useful:
  • Consider getting a seasonal flu shot.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Wash hands frequently and thoroughly with soap.
  • Stay home when sick.
View information about getting a household ready.
Additional resources for the most up-to-date information: