The Minnesota Department of Health is currently investigating a COVID-19 case cluster from the Kollege Klub at the University of Minnesota campus.

As of Friday, the popular Dinkytown bar Kollege Klub has been linked to 22 positive COVID-19 cases between June 15 and 21, according to MDH media relations support Julie Bartkey. 

Kris Ehresmann, MDH Infectious Disease Division director, said additional positive cases could also be traced to Cowboy Jack’s, a bar located in downtown Minneapolis. She said that anyone who has attended the bars and has symptoms of COVID-19 should be tested immediately. 

New data suggests that the median age of cases in the state have dropped to 39.7 years, which Ehresmann said is especially concerning for vulnerable populations. 

COVID-19 patients in the state ages 20-29 made up 7,045 confirmed cases, as of Friday – the largest segment of the population when compared to all other age groups.

Some social media users have criticized the recent overcrowding of Kollege Klub since the state eased restrictions on bars. Other posts showed lines of customers wrapping around the building waiting to get inside.

Ehresmann said the lack of masks and social distancing has provided the opportunity for young people to be exposed when going out. 

MDH is currently working on how they can “promote the best practices” at clubs and bars in the area, especially as the Fourth of July holiday weekend quickly approaches. 

This is a breaking news report. More information will be added as it becomes available.