The Barry-Eaton District Health Department is reporting Barry County’s first positive case for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The individual is a 45-year-old male with no travel history. The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) will contact people who have been in close contact with the patient. They will be assessed for symptoms and monitored appropriately.

 

Barry-Eaton District Health Department is not naming public low-risk exposure locations. Residents should behave as though the virus may be present when they are in public places in the community. The health department reinforces that people should be taking all recommended prevention measures.

 

As a precaution, BEDHD is asking anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 to self-isolate for 14 days to avoid potentially exposing others. COVID-19 symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

 

Colette Scrimger, BEDHD Health Officer stated, “As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, we urge Barry County residents to make efforts to reduce the spread of illness. Barry-Eaton District Health Department is working hard to manage and respond to the presence of COVID-19 in Barry County through established public health measures such as quarantine, isolation, and contact tracing.”

 

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, people should:

- Wash their hands.

- Stay home when sick.

- Avoid close contact with sick people.

- Avoid touching their face.

- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

- Avoid shaking hands.

- Follow suggested guidelines for social distancing.

 

For social distancing, we recommend the following:

- Keep six feet between yourself and others when possible.

- Avoid public places at their busiest times.

- Work from home when possible.

- Cancel gatherings of more than 50 people as required by Michigan law. However, it is recommended gatherings not exceed 10 people.

- Limit travel.

 

People who are concerned that they may have COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider and call ahead before visiting any healthcare facility. Mildly ill people are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. If you feel well, you do not need to be tested. Testing is determined based on risk assessment.