The Grand Traverse County Health Department says a symptomatic person who later tested positive for COVID-19 may have spread the disease in the community last week.
The sick person was on a Delta flight from Detroit Metro Airport that arrived in Traverse City at about 5 p.m. last Monday. The health department says people who were on that flight should self-quarantine until next Monday.
People may also have been exposed at the Target located at South Airport Road in Traverse City. If they were there on Sunday from 5-6 p.m., they should self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms including fever, cough, body aches and shortness of breath.
People who start experiencing symptoms should contact their doctor. Most importantly, says the health department, community members should stay home, especially if they’re feeling sick.
“Community exposure is a worst-case scenario when conducting case investigations at the health department as it increases the potential for community transmission,” Wendy Hirschenberger, Grand Traverse County Health Department’s Health Officer, said in a press release.
Hirschenberger says the community should take Governor Whitmer’s directives seriously and stay inside unless they need to pick up food or work for an essential business.
“We will undoubtedly see a toll on our Northern Michigan healthcare systems if people do not comply with the Governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order,” Hirschenberger said.
The Grand Traverse County Health Department says people should call them at 231-995-6801 if they think they’ve been exposed or have further questions. More information can be also found at gtcountycovid19.com.
