Throughout Michigan and much of the United States, we are seeing the number of COVID-19 cases rise; the number of new cases of COVID-19 have been increasing for the last two weeks in Lenawee County. On October 25, 2020, the 7-day average of new cases per million population was 110.3, compared with 27.6 on September 25, 2020. Additionally, on October 25, 2020, 5.1% of tests for COVID-19 conducted in Lenawee County had positive results, compared to 1.5% on September 25, 2020. Lenawee County is at risk level “D”, which is the second highest risk level for epidemic spread

Along with the increase in new cases, we are also seeing an increase in the number of hospitalizations. On October 27, 2020, the Health Department reported 10 Lenawee County residents were hospitalized due to COVID-19. This is the highest number of hospitalizations of COVID-19 positive cases reported on any given day since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition to the increase in hospitalizations, yesterday, we report the 20th Lenawee County COVID-19 death, an 80-year-old female with underlying health conditions.

The increase in COVID-19 cases in combination with flu season quickly approaching has the potential to overburden our healthcare system, which can have devastating consequences for our community. Each of us has the ability to reduce the impact of COVID-19 and the flu on our community by following some simple prevention strategies.

LCHD is asking residents to work together to reduce the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19 and flu this season:

• Stay home if you are sick. Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19. Up-to-date information regarding testing sites near you can be found here.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Wear a face covering when in public spaces and when near individuals you do not live with.
• Avoid close contact with individuals who do not live in your home, maintain 6 feet of space from others.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and immediately wash or sanitize your hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Get a flu shot to reduce risk of severe flu illness and flu related hospitalizations.

Please visit lenawee.mi.us or michigan.gov/coronavirus for more information regarding COVID-19 in Lenawee County.