Monday, May 4, 2020

Grand Traverse County COVID-19 Community Update For May 4, 2020


Grand Traverse County COVID-19 Community Update For May 4, 2020

DAILY NUMBERS
The Grand Traverse County Health Department is reporting 20 positive cases, 6 probable cases and 5 deaths from COVID-19 in Grand Traverse County residents. The new case is a female in her 50’s with a history of domestic travel. The patient is recuperating at home and the County Health Department is working to identify and contact anyone potentially exposed and will maintain regular contact with the individual while they remain in home isolation. It is important to note that the newest patient has no history of flying into or out of Cherry Capital Airport during the infectious period. 

Prior to this newest case, Grand Traverse County went 14 days without a new positive case. These numbers and additional county statistics are continually updated and available on the County’s dashboard.

Regionally, Munson Healthcare is reporting COVID-19 testing results on its website for each of its hospitals throughout northern Michigan. Numbers are listed by the hospital that provided service and not broken out by county of residence.
  
Michigan has reported 43,754 positive cases and 4,049 deaths from COVID-19. That is an increase of 2,375 positive cases and 260 deaths since Friday. Numbers are updated daily. Michigan is also reporting 15,659 people who have recovered from COVID-19. 

KEY MESSAGES 
Stay Home, Stay Safe, Save Lives remains the most important message for residents throughout Northwest Michigan. It is important to remember that even though businesses are beginning to re-open, COVID-19 remains a serious health emergency. Everyone is encouraged to wear masks in public places. Furthermore, as the temperature begins to slowly warm it is important to practice social distancing as public places like trails, parks and the beach. Residents who travel to other residences (e.g., second homes, cottages, cabins, etc.) should avoid local grocery stores during their visits and self quarantine for 14 days after arriving. 

TESTING
More people are able to get tests in Michigan due to recently expanded criteria. Testing sites have capacity and tests are available. Individuals seeking tests can call:
  • Their healthcare provider
  • The Munson Healthcare COVID-19 hotline: 231-935-0951
  • The Michigan COVID-19 hotline: 888-535-6136 
 Grand Traverse County’s testing sites are:

Plasma Trial 
Munson Healthcare is participating in a convalescent plasma trial and is currently seeking donations from local patients who have recovered from COVID-19. The convalescent plasma of recovered COVID-19 patients contain viral antibodies that have treatment potential for severe cases of the disease. Recovered COVID-19 patients in Northern Michigan interested in participating in the trial must meet the following criteria:
  • Have had a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 by a physician and laboratory testing
  • Be symptom free for at least 28 days
  • Be symptom free for 14 - 27 days, with a verified negative test
To make a plasma donation, or to learn if you are eligible, please contact Versiti at 866-702-4673 or email MICplasma@versiti.org. More information can also be found on-line here.
TRUSTED INFORMATION SOURCES
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. Please direct your neighbors to these information resources for the most current, factual information:


ABOUT THE JOC
Grand Traverse County’s Joint Operations Center has been meeting daily to coordinate efforts and communication on the COVID-19 pandemic since Friday, March 13. Members include key community partners from health, government, first responders, education, social service, and business sectors.    

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 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.
  • Stay at least six feet away from others when in a public setting.
  • Replace handshakes with a friendly wave from 6 feet away.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has assembled a FAQ on protecting yourself from COVID-19. If you suspect that you may have contracted the virus, call your healthcare provider or the Michigan COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136, seven days a week from 8 am - 5 pm.


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