COLDWATER, MI. – (WTVB) – The Branch-St. Joseph-Hillsdale Community Health Agency reports that as of 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning, there are no cases of COVID-19 in Branch, Hillsdale, or St. Joseph counties.
At last count within the State of Michigan there are 65 cases of COVID-19 and testing continues daily.
In Branch, Hillsdale and St. Joseph Counties 20 individuals have been approved for testing using state guidelines. Of these 20 tests, seven are negative for COVID-19, and the remaining 13 are still out for testing at the lab.
Officials say there are currently no travelers being monitored within the three counties.
Local and state authorities are making additional recommendations to prevent the spread of illness and slow any progression of a potential COVID-19 outbreak.
They support the measures taken by Governor Whitmer and are encouraging all residents of Branch, Hillsdale, and St. Joseph counties to take them seriously, limit gatherings and stay home.
Health Officer Rebecca Burns is encouraging everyone to stay calm. She wants to reassure everyone that the agency is ready to respond immediately. While the situation locally may change quickly, Burns says “we can all take measures to protect our family and friends by staying home, rescheduling mass gatherings, and practicing good personal hygiene”.
The Community Health Agency has information on their website at www.bhsj.org where there is a link to the State of Michigan COVID-19 page.
The Health Alert Team for the agency is meeting regularly and working collaboratively with county governments, local schools and others. If you call one of their main offices, you can select an option to speak with someone about COVID-19. The system is manned seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
