Saginaw County Health Dept., Local Hospitals Issue Joint Statement on Rising COVID-19 Cases

The Saginaw County Health Department, Covenant HealthCare and Ascension St. Mary’s issued the following joint statement Friday, Nov. 6, 2020: 

(SAGINAW) — As part of our role as Saginaw County’s Emergency Medical Command & Control, we are asking Saginaw County residents to join us in taking necessary steps to fight the recent surge of COVID-19 cases. This request comes as cases and hospitalizations are rising at a concerning rate in our community.

The Saginaw County Health Department reports that COVID-19 cases have increased by 1,161 in the last two weeks alone. In addition, our positivity rate (the number of COVID-19 tests that come back positive) is nearing 10% and climbing — just a month ago, it was below 3%.

At the same time, our hospitals are reporting increased hospitalizations for COVID-19 patients – particularly in the past week. Our health care facilities are constantly evaluating the situation to take care of patients and staff. Thus far, they have adequate supplies of PPE, medication and equipment, but are asking the community to help healthcare workers and stop the spread.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities will continue requiring staff and patients to follow public safety protocols, including mask-wearing and screenings upon entry to our facilities. Visitor restrictions are being reinstated.

We jointly ask that residents do their part by:

  • Washing your hands, wearing your masks, watching your distance
  • Staying home for at least 10 days when sick with COVID-19 or COVID-like symptoms
  • Staying home for 14 days if exposed to COVID-19
  • Avoiding crowded gatherings and other high-risk behaviors

Please do your part and help minimize the spread of COVID-19.