Fourth of July partygoers test positive for COVID-19, possibly exposing others

Eight individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 reported attending a sand bar party at Littlefield Lake in Isabella County over the Fourth of July weekend, the Central Michigan District Health Department said.

The party, as well as an after-party at a private residence, happened July 4 and ended about 3 a.m. July 5.

Officials say multiple people could have been exposed to the coronavirus during these events.

Anyone who was at these parties should monitor for COVID-19 symptoms, the health department said.

Signs and symptoms of the virus include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea.

“We are seeing increases in new cases and new outbreaks of COVID-19,” said Jennifer Morse, medical director for the Central Michigan District Health Department. “This is a sobering reminder that this pandemic is far from being over and could overwhelm us again at any time. It is more important than ever to take the only steps we have to keep COVID-19 from getting worse. That includes staying home when ill, avoiding crowded areas, keeping at least six feet apart from others, wearing a mask when in public, covering coughs and sneezes and frequent hand washing.”

COVID-19 testing locations can be found at www.mi.gov/coronavirustest or by calling 2-1-1.