HEALTH ADVISORY

March 11, 2020

Update for High-Risk on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

This is a highly evolving situation, so please refer to our COVID-19 page for the latest information.

As you are aware, the situation regarding COVID-19 is changing rapidly. While we are still learning more about this virus, we have seen that older people and those with chronic health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes are at higher risk of developing more serious illness from COVID-19. You play in important role in helping plan, prepare, and respond to this emerging public health threat and in communicating with those you serve. Please visit our website for information on COVID-19.

Key Points:
  • There are 2 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Wayne and Oakland counties as of March 10, 2020.
  • There are no confirmed positive cases in Kent County as of March 10, 2020.
  • Testing capacity is expanding, but at this time only healthcare providers can order a test for COVID-19.
  • If you think you need to be tested, see the section on testing below. If you need to go to your doctor and are concerned about COVID-19, call ahead so the office can determine if you need to be seen and is prepared to see you.
Organizations that care for or work with high-risk populations:
  • Prevent the introduction of respiratory germs into your facility
    • Post signs at the entrance instructing visitors not to visit if they have signs of respiratory infection (fever, cough, or difficulty breathing)
    • Ensure sick leave policies allow employees to stay home if they have signs of respiratory infection
    • Assess residents/participants for symptoms of respiratory infection and develop plans to have them separated from others
  • Encourage handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer
  • Actively encourage sick employees to stay home and send home employees that develop respiratory symptoms
    • Ensure that your sick leave policies are flexible and be aware that employees may need to stay home to care for a sick family member
    • Do not require a healthcare provider’s note for employees who are sick with acute respiratory illness to either validate their illness or to return to work
    • Promote messages that discourage people who are sick from attending gatherings.
  • Perform routine environmental cleaning and provide disposable wipes for commonly used surfaces
  • Communicate with those you serve about COVID-19 and remain mindful of the more vulnerable members of your community. COVID-19 fact sheets are available in English, Chinese, Spanish and Arabic.
Who is at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19?
  • Guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
  • Older adults aged 60 and above
  • People with serious chronic medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, blood disorders and lung disease
  • Those who have a compromised immune system
  • There is limited data about pregnant women, but they may be more likely to get seriously ill if they become infected. More information can be found here.
  • If you are at higher risk, avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel. Ensure you have enough medications and groceries to allow you to stay at home if needed.
Long-term Care Facilities
Homeless Shelters
Who should get tested for COVID-19?
  • People who have returned from China and Iran are being monitored by KCHD for symptoms for 14 days after departure from China or Iran. Symptoms include fever of 100.4 F, cough, or shortness of breath.
  • Travelers who return from South Korea and Italy should quarantine themselves (stay home and not go to work or school) and monitor their for symptoms for 14 days. Those who develop symptoms should call their primary care doctor who will determine if COVID-19 testing is indicated. Those who return from Japan should monitor their health, but are not asked to quarantine themselves.
  • People who have traveled to other locations including cities in the U.S. and have a fever and/or cough and shortness of breath should call their primary care doctor to discuss testing.
Updates as of 3/10/2020:

This is a highly evolving situation, so please refer to our COVID-19 page for the latest information.

Kent County: 19 people have had specimens submitted for COVID-19 testing, 11 were negative, 8 are pending.

Michigan: There are 2 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Wayne and Oakland counties as of March 10, 2020. 77 people have had specimens submitted for COVID-19 testing, 57 were negative, 2 were positive, 18 results are pending.

United States: There have been a total of 1,039 cases in the U.S. with 23 deaths.

Global: There have been 121,250 cases, 4,369 deaths. There are CDC level 3 travel warnings (avoid non-essential travel) for China, Iran, Italy, South Korea; level 2 for Japan (delay travel for those who are elderly or have chronic conditions); and level 1 (regular precautions) for Hong Kong.