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St. Clair County restaurant listed as potential coronavirus exposure site

Patrons asked to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms

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FORT GRATIOT TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A restaurant in St. Clair County has been listed as a potential coronavirus exposure site.

St. Clair County health officials announced Thursday that an employee at Chili’s Bar & Grill on 24th Avenue in Fort Gratiot Township has tested positive for COVID-19.

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Patrons who visited the restaurant anytime between Oct. 18-22 are encouraged to self-monitor for COVID-19 symptoms for 14 days following their visit. Individuals who experience COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to get tested for the virus, and to self quarantine while awaiting test results to prevent the spread of COVID.

COVID symptoms can arise up to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Individuals may be able to spread the disease for up to 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms. Some individuals who contract the virus may remain asymptomatic.

Read: Coronavirus in Michigan: Here’s what to know Oct. 29, 2020

General questions can be directed to the St. Clair County COVID-19 Informational Hotline at 810-966-4163 during regular business hours.

How COVID-19 Spreads

Person-to-person spread

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Can someone spread the virus without being sick?

  • Spread is possible before people show symptoms. People who are not showing symptoms can still be carrying the virus and can still pass it on to other people.

Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How easily the virus spreads

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.

Prevention & Treatment

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Click here for more guidelines from the CDC.

People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.

Read more about COVID-19 here.


About the Author
Cassidy Johncox headshot

Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.

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