Thursday, March 19, 2020

Grand Traverse County Community Update - March 19, 2020

Grand Traverse County Community Update - March 19, 2020

As of this morning, 7 tests submitted from Grand Traverse County have come back negative, but many results are still pending. 

For those unsure of whether they should self-quarantine, self-isolate, or practice social distancing, the Grand Traverse County Health Department offers the following guidance:

  • If you have been exposed to someone who is positive, this is a primary exposure and you should self-quarantine for 14 days.
  • If you have been in contact with someone who has experienced primary exposure or is being tested, this is a secondary exposure. Secondary exposures are recommended to follow social distancing guidelines and monitor themselves for symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath).
  • At some point, everyone is going to know someone who has been tested or has symptoms of COVID-19, the Health Department continues to recommend social distancing for the entire community and practice precautions as if you have been exposed.
  • Important Reminder: 
    • If you have mild symptoms, please stay at home, follow theCDC home care guidelines and contact your doctor
    • Please follow these recommendations from the CDC to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick

Child Care for Essential Workers:

  • For licensed child care providers are who willing to remain open or re-open during this emergency, please complete a short survey to provide information about your program's ability to serve the children of the essential workforce: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/childcare-covid-response.
  • If you work in any essential industry (Police, Firefighting, Healthcare - including inpatient food service, custodial staff, etc.) are in need of care for a child between the ages of 0-12, you are asked to fill out this form to help you find child care: http://www.helpmegrow-mi.org/essential

Food Resources:

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BASIC PREVENTION MEASURES:

The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
  • Replace handshakes with a friendly wave from 6 feet away.
  • Stay at least six feet away from others when in a public setting.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at gtchd.orgatMichigan.gov/Coronavirus,and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

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