COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Communuty Health Agency Health Officer Rebecca Burns says the local increase in positive cases for COVID-19 is related to the expanded testing criteria which is leading to more people being able to get tested.
Between May 4 and 8, there was an increase of 63 percent in positive COVID-19 cases in St. Joseph County as well as a 20 percent increase in Branch County and a 15 percent increase in Hillsdale County.
The C.H.A. says the expanded testing provides the local health department with information to limit disease spread in the community.
Each person that tests positive is contacted by the local health department. They are told of their requirement to isolate. They are also asked about close contacts. Those close contacts are then told to quarantine for 14 days and monitor themselves for symptons.
As of Sunday afternoon, there have been 79 positive COVID-19 cases with two deaths in Branch County since the coronavirus outbreak began. Hillsdale County has had 152 cases with 21 deaths while there has been 65 cases in St. Joseph County with one death.
