Statement from Washtenaw County Health Officer, Jimena Loveluck:
We are facing an unprecedented global, national and local public health emergency. I recognize that this is challenging time for us all, one filled with fear and anxiety about our well-being and that of our loved ones. Our religious community and houses of worship provide critical support and comfort during these difficult times. Nevertheless, I am asking all of us to do our part to protect the public’s health – that means your health, the health of your family and loved ones, and the health of our most vulnerable community members.
There are 187 cases of COVID-19 in Washtenaw County and we expect those numbers to continue to rise. Almost 25% of these individuals are hospitalized. We know that our elders and people with underlying health conditions are more at risk for serious illness. It is our strong recommendation that people follow the Governor’s Stay Home Stay Safe order and only leave their homes for essential trips (like to get groceries or medicine), that people stay six feet apart from others when they are out, that people wash their hands often and well for 20 seconds, and that people avoid any social gatherings.
We ask for your help in following these steps to help protect everyone’s health and contain the spread of this virus. Washtenaw County Health Department recommends the cancellation of faith-based gatherings or in-person services of any kind. Instead, consider posting sermons on social media, hosting group meetings via video chat, setting up text or phone trees to check-in with members. We must all do our part to protect our health and the health of others, particularly our most vulnerable community members. Please refer to the Washtenaw County Health Department’s website for more information and helpful resources. www.washtenaw.org/COVID19
