(July 25, 2020 11:58 AM) The daily cumulative count for positive COVID cases in Jackson County has been steadily increasing since the end of June. On June 30, Jackson County had 484 cumulative positive COVID cases and as of today there are 596 positive cases. Henry Ford Allegiance Health reports people hospitalized with a positive COVID diagnosis every Wednesday and as of July 22, there were five people hospitalized with COVID, up 3 from the week before. Overall, Michigan numbers have been increasing and reflect rising counts nationwide.
As discussions about schools re-opening continue, the Jackson County Health Department says this is of great concern to the community and released the following information today:
In Jackson County, COVID-19 have been traced to activities such as:
· Travel both domestically and internationally of our residents, without following proper precautions to avoid the risk of infection (i.e. facemask, social distancing of at least six feet and frequent handwashing).
· Spending time outdoors in public places where there are large groups without a mask. Most of these cases had the intention to social distance, but unexpected crowds such as waiting in line, standing at a counter-service bar or restaurant, or on a crowded beach, happened and then they may have been exposed.
· Attending big events such as family gatherings, parties, or sporting activities. Often times these events take place where individuals who are not from within the same household interact and mingle. These are places where exposures occur.
Rashmi Travis, Health Officer, Jackson County Health Department, states, “While we recognize it is summer and individuals want to be traveling and/or socializing, we are in the midst of a pandemic and it is critical for individuals to question if they need to travel, attend a social event or attend crowded gatherings. It is also important for individuals to exercise safe practices by wearing a mask, washing hands, and social distancing.”
Before traveling anywhere, consider the travel safety tips available online through the Centers for Disease Control. It is important to understand that just because an event is held outdoors; it does not always make it safe. Virus droplets can travel at least 6 feet which is why facemasks are recommended. In addition, it is estimated around 40% (4 out of 10) of the people infected with COVID are asymptomatic, meaning they can pass the virus on to others and never exhibit symptoms. Unless a person has been identified as a contact and gets tested, they may never know they have the virus and could potentially infect many people in their daily activities without realizing what they are doing.
We understand that people are beginning to experience a variety of emotions regarding the COVID virus. It is to be expected when having to deal with restrictions and changes in routines. Resources for coping can be found on the Health Department webpage devoted to Coping Mentally with the Stress of COVID-19.
Jackson County residents have done a great job so far and together we can keep these numbers down in our community. Public Health IS LOCAL and together we can keep our community strong and healthy.
Stay Safe, Social Distance, and Wear a Mask Over Your Nose and Mouth
Jackson County cases are reported daily by noon on our webpage located at www.mijackson.org/hd on the Coronavirus page, which is easily accessed from the front page. Michigan case numbers are reported by 3:00 pm on their webpage located at https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus.
If you have any questions, please call (517) 788-4420, Option 9. For more information, visit the Jackson County Health Department webpage located at www.mijackson.org/hd. You can also visit www.michigan.gov/coronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html for additional information regarding preventing getting sick.
Amy Guerriero, Watercolor Artist, Studio G
Joe Williams, President & CEO, County National Bank
Today’s News – Wednesday January 7th – The Morning Show
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