LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mich. – Two locations in Brighton and Fowlerville have been identified as potential coronavirus (COVID-19) exposure sites by the Livingston County Health Department.
Officials announced Tuesday that individuals with confirmed cases of COVID-19 recently patronized The Pound Bar & Grill in Brighton and the VFW Post 6464 in Fowlerville.
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Two unrelated customers who tested positive for COVID-19 visited the Brighton restaurant on Sept. 18, according to the health department. Officials say both individuals reported crowded conditions and no social distancing at the restaurant during their visit.
Anyone who visited the The Pound Bar & Grill in Brighton between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m. on Sept. 18 is asked to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms -- which can develop up to 14 days after exposure. Individuals who exhibit symptoms should get tested for the virus and self-quarantine while awaiting test results.
Health officials also say that two individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 reportedly attended events at the VFW Post 6464 on Sept. 18 and Sept. 20. One infected individual attended a rib dinner on Sept. 18, and the other attended a breakfast on Sept. 20 while symptomatic.
Anyone who visited the VFW Post 6464 in Fowlerville between 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 18 or between 7:30 a.m. and noon on Sept. 20 are being asked to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms. Officials say that patrons' risk for coronavirus contraction during these events was low, but are still requesting individuals to self-monitor.
COVID-19 symptoms can develop up to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone who exhibits symptoms is encouraged to get tested and self-quarantine while awaiting test results.
How COVID-19 Spreads
Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
- Spread is possible before people show symptoms. People who are not showing symptoms can still be carrying the virus and can still pass it on to other people.
Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
How easily the virus spreads
How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.
Prevention & Treatment
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Click here for more guidelines from the CDC.
People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.