PETOSKEY, MI – People who visited a Northern Michigan casino and two restaurants on Friday, May 29, could have been exposed to COVID-19 coronavirus.
The Health Department of Northwest Michigan announced on Sunday, May 31, three locations where there may have been “low-risk exposure” to the novel virus. The public notice was issued because contact tracing could not identify all people the infect person came into close contact with.
The person who tested positive for coronavirus visited the following public locations while contagious on Friday:
- Odawa Casino in Petoskey from 2-5 p.m.
- Pine Squirrel Bar and Grill in Gaylord from 5-7 p.m.
- Paul’s Pub in Gaylord from 7-9 p.m.
Anyone who was at those locations during those times should self-monitor for through June 12 (14 days from possible exposure). That means watching for coronavirus symptoms, including fever, cough and shortness of breath. Less common symptoms include fatigue, loss of taste and smell, and diarrhea.
Anyone who develops symptoms should call their primary care physician for testing. Those who do not have a primary care provider should call the health department at 1-800-432-4121.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer allowed Northern Michigan bars and restaurants to reopen under restrictions beginning on May 22, while much of the state remains under a stay-home order through June 12. Odawa Casino – a tribal casino that is not under the jurisdiction of state government – reopened on Friday, May 29.
“We understand this is an exciting time to return to public spaces as the weather gets warmer,” said Lisa Peacock, health officer. “However, this situation is a reminder that we must continue to be vigilant and focus on what each of us can do to protect ourselves and those around us.”
The health department urges everyone to approach the lessened restrictions with care.
“If you are sick, stay home. If you choose to visit our local businesses, be aware that some people who test positive for COVID-19 have no symptoms, so we need to continue following masking, handwashing, and social distancing guidelines,” the department said.
COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS
In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus.
Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible.
Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued an executive order requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while inside enclosed, public spaces.
Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
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