Clare County confirms first COVID-19 case, Central Michigan Health Department to close temporarily
All branches of the Central Michigan District Health Department will be temporarily closed to the public to mitigate the spread of the new coronavirus.
The public closure will take effect Monday, March 23, according to a March 18 press release. The department has also confirmed its first case of the virus in Clare County, according to another press release from March 21. No information is currently known about the patient.
“We hope for the speedy recovery of our resident,” medical director Jennifer Morse said. "The Health Department is relying on our communities to work together, be vigilant, and take the necessary precautions to slow the potential spread of illness. We encourage the public to avoid panic and turn to reputable sources for information.”
The health department will be reaching out to those who have been in close contact with the patient and will be assessed for symptoms.
There will be limitations to the services offered by the department.
- Routine HIV and STD testing will not be offered at this time. Emergency HIV and STD testing and family planning services will be available by appointment only.
- House visiting services for Children’s Special Healthcare Services, Healthy Families and Healthy Futures are not available at this time. Maternal Infant Home Visiting services will be conducted over the phone.
- Routine vaccinations are not available right now, but urgent vaccines are available by appointment only.
- Lead testing is currently unavailable.
- Indoor environmental health services are temporarily suspended. Visits for water well and sewer disposal permits are still being scheduled.
For questions or to schedule appointments, please call the local health department branch. The number for the Isabella County branch is (989) 773-5921
