STAY HOME, STAY SAFE, SAVE LIVES is the most important message for residents of all ages as Michigan's COVID-19 case count continues to rise daily. It is essential that people stay home as much as possible, avoid all non-essential travel in the community and practice social distancing when they must go out.
To date, 143 Grand Traverse County residents have been tested for COVID-19: 89 tests have come back negative, 6 tests were positive and 48 tests are pending. The newest case reported overnight is a female in her 70s who is currently hospitalized. For this case and every confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county, the Grand Traverse County Health Department conducts a full public health investigation. The Health Department will directly contact any individuals who may be at risk. If a case results in risk of community transmission, a public notification is issued. The Health Department maintains daily contact with all positive cases and those in quarantine being monitored for symptoms. All current public notifications for Grand Traverse County can be found at gtcountycovid19.com.
Munson Healthcare is reporting COVID-19 patient tests and hospitalizations at each of its hospitals.COVID-19 updates from Munson Healthcare can be found on their website.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that all US airports, including Cherry Capital Airport, remain safe and open to the traveling public and aircraft. Airports play an essential role in transporting medical and emergency equipment and personnel, especially during the COVID-19 health emergency. Passengers cannot be categorically refused access to air transportation. Airlines may refuse transportation to a passenger because of a communicable disease if the passenger's condition poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
The Grand Traverse County Health Department asks that visitors and residents coming to Grand Traverse County from other areas in Michigan and out of state remain in self-quarantine for 14 days, even if they have no symptoms or known exposure. The virus can spread even from individuals without any symptoms. This precaution will help slow the spread of the virus and save lives.
On March 28, Michigan reported 993 new cases and 19 new deaths, for a total of 4,650 cases and 111 deaths. State numbers are updated daily at 2 pm. Many Michiganders have recovered from COVID-19, and recovery numbers will continue to increase in the coming weeks.
For straight facts in real time about COVID-19 in Grand Traverse County, visit gtcountycovid19.com and its corresponding Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to share these resources widely so neighbors will have accurate information.
The Grand Traverse County Joint Operations Center meets daily to coordinate efforts and communication on the COVID-19 pandemic. Members include key community partners from health, government, first responder, education, social service and business sectors.
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BASIC PREVENTION MEASURES
The best prevention for viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and the common cold is to:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not unavailable, 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.
- Stay at least six feet away from others when in a public setting.
- Replace handshakes with a friendly wave from 6 feet away.
Information around the outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at gtchd.org, at michigan.gov/coronavirus, and cdc.gov/coronavirus.
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