LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is working with local public health departments on an investigation of cases of COVID-19 illness associated with the Faster Horses Festival, a three-day country music and camping festival held July 16-19 at the Michigan International Speedway in Lenawee County.
Health officials say at least 17 cases of COVID-19 have been identified in this year’s attendees, including individuals who were at the festival while they were infectious, and urges those who’ve attended the Faster Horses Festival that they may have been exposed to the virus.
“Although we have made great progress with vaccination in our state, the virus continues to circulate in Michigan and across the country,” said. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS.
“Attendees at the festival may have been exposed and are urged to get tested if they are not fully vaccinated or if they develop symptoms. “
People with COVID-19 may be asymptomatic or have a wide range of symptoms – from mild to severe illness.
Symptoms generally appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
Individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, inability to wake or stay awake or pale or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds, should seek emergency care immediately.
Attendees of Faster Horses are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 if they have not been fully vaccinated, or have been vaccinated, but develop symptoms.
Testing sites are available across the state, many of them offering free COVID-19 testing. Visit Michigan.gov/coronavirustest to find the nearest location.
