PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 9, 2021
Lenawee County Urges Caution as COVID-19 Cases Surge
ADRIAN, MI – Over the past few weeks, Lenawee County has experienced a significant increase in the number of new COVID-19 cases, similar to numbers seen during the Winter surge. If COVID-19 spread continues in our community at its current rate, it is projected that by the end of April, we will surpass the number of new COVID-19 cases seen during previous surges.
The positivity rate for tests is at 16.4%, which is the highest rate seen since the beginning of the pandemic. We are also seeing increased numbers of hospitalizations, with our local hospital having 50% of their patients positive for COVID-19 and our critical care unit 89% full.
“Our numbers are not trending in the right direction,” stated Martin Marshall, Lenawee County Administrator. “While we saw decreases in active cases, daily new cases, and hospitalizations earlier this year, that is not the case for our community now. Our numbers in all categories are rising at an alarming rate.”
The rise in cases may be in part due to increased transmission from COVID-19 variants, two of which have been identified in Lenawee County. The B.1.1.7. variant was first identified in the United Kingdom and is approximately 50% more transmissible than the wild-type virus. The P.1. variant was first identified in Brazil.
“We are vaccinating individuals in Lenawee County as quickly as we receive our allocation from the State,” stated Craig Tanis, Lenawee County Emergency Coordinator. “We have mass vaccine clinics several times a week at the Lenawee County Fairgrounds, and have brought on additional partners to operate clinics throughout the county. So far, we have completely vaccinated 21.4% of our residents, which leaves us a ways to go.”
Lenawee County officials are asking everyone to do their part in curbing this spike of COVID-19 cases in our community.
“The current trend of increased COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations is very concerning” stated Martha Hall, Lenawee County Health Officer. “While the vaccine is being distributed as quickly as possible, the virus is also spreading rapidly in our community. Make your vaccine appointment as soon as possible, and until then practice prevention measures to help keep our friends, family and neighbors safe.”
Test
Please do not assume that any symptoms you may be having are allergies or a sinus issue. If you have any symptoms, isolate from others and get tested. There are many testing options available in Lenawee County https://www.lenawee.mi.us/931/COVID-19-Case-Testing-Information .
Isolate
If you receive a positive COVID-19 test result, isolate for a minimum of 10 days from the start of your symptom(s) or your positive test date if you didn’t have symptoms. Notify your close contacts that they may have been exposed and encourage them to quarantine for 14 days from their last date of contact with you. If you know you are a close contact, start self-quarantine to prevent any further spread of the virus.
Trace
Individuals who test positive will receive a text or an email with a link to a case investigation form. Complete the form as accurately as possible, providing all information regarding close contacts. You may also receive a phone call. Please answer your phone, even if it’s from an unknown number; it could be the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) or the LCHD calling to complete your case investigation.
Practice the 3 W’s
- wash your hands frequently.
- watch your distance from others not in your household.
- wear a mask.
Stay Safe
Consider limiting the number of people you are around when possible—keep your bubble small
Travel Safe
If planning to travel, get tested 1-3 days before your trip, and 3-5 days once you return. See Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Travel Safety Guidance https://www.michigan.gov/documents/coronavirus/Accessible_-_Safe_Holiday_Travel_Guidance_2222021_FINAL_717620_7.pdf
These actions not only help keep you safe, but also protect those in your community. For more information on COVID-19, visit www.lenawee.mi.us.
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