Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Statistics across the state and the nation are showing a higher increase in COVID-19 cases among young adults in recent weeks as bars, stores and restaurants have reopened.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the highest rate of new COVID-19 cases right now in the United States is occurring in 18- to 49-year-olds, according to an Associated Press article last week.

The article said though every age group saw an increase in cases during the first week in June, the numbers shot up fastest among 18- to 49-year-olds. For the week ending June 7, there were 43 new cases per 100,000 people in that age bracket nationwide, compared with 28 cases per 100,000 people over 65.

In Minnesota, the median age of confirmed cases has gone down and is now just under 40 years old.

Close to home, cases have increased among people in their 20s in Mankato and Minneapolis tied to bar-hopping outbreaks. Minnesota Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said earlier this week there are likely more than 200 positive cases in Mankato and at least 100 in Minneapolis tied to the outbreaks. The department listed two bars that were attended in each city among those who were sick.

Though everyone wants to get back out and resume a lifestyle similar to before the pandemic began, we ask that people — and especially those in their 20s through 40s — be cautious and practice social distancing and other guidelines recommended by health officials.

Though this age group may feel strong and healthy and may not feel the effects from the virus as much as older people, they can pass it on to others who may be more at risk — whether they be loved ones, friends or strangers.

Remember, we are all in this together.