Oakland County’s first COVID-19 patient is "in good shape," according to county officials. The patient was tested Tuesday and the positive result came in late that night.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency Tuesday night after the state confirmed the first two cases of the disease in Michigan. One of those patients is being treated for COVID-19 by the University of Michigan Health System.
Oakland County’s medical director says as of this morning over 30 people are under investigation pending test results for COVID-19.
Doctor Russel Faust is the county medical director. He says the county's next case is probably not far behind.
"Where we’ll find the next case is in our community, and in those folks that are being tested right now. We know it’s out there, this is not the last case and these are not the last cases in Michigan. But we're in pretty good shape in terms of being prepared," says Faust.
According to the county there are more than 30 respiratory isolation units in Oakland county facilities, which the Centers for Disease Control recommends for fighting the disease. David Coulter, Oakland County executive, says at this point they’re prepared, but the situation is ever evolving.
"More testing kits would be helpful. I know our county board of commissioners has authorized an additional appropriation to purchase those when they become available I think it’s fair to say nationally there's still a need for additional tests," says Coulter.
The CDC says the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus; avoid close contact with other people especially those who appear to be sick; and wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You can find more information about COVID-19 from the CDC here.
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