By Dave Thompson

BISMARCK, N.D. (Prairie Public Radio) – Governor Burgum says North Dakotans shouldn’t let their guard down yet on COVID-19.

Burgum told reporters the numbers are looking good, in terms of positive tests, hospitalizations and death rates. But he says there is concern about new COVID variants, that may be more contagious or more virulent than the more common virus strain.

Those include masking, social distancing, frequent hand washings, staying home when sick, and avoiding crowds and travel.