DETROIT – As the TCF Center turns into a makeshift hospital that will be used to help people recover from coronavirus (COVID-19), a local catering company wanted to make sure all the workers aren’t doing it on an empty stomach.
It’s a simple form of appreciation packed inside a lunch box.
April 10, 2020 update: Construction complete: Detroit’s TCF Center turned into alternate care facility for COVID-19 patients
“Oh, we did a marinated chicken breast and rice pilaf, green beans on Monday. And then some snacks and some cookies, chips and bottled water,” said Anthony and Cindy Jackson, with Jackson’s Five Star Catering.
They said it isn’t much but they wanted to at least give out free lunches to those working hard inside the TCF Center.
“It’s great that we could, you know, have a connection with the Army, the National Guard. We also donated to all the local police or fire departments in our neighborhood. And it’s just a chance for us to get together and give back to what all the community has also given to us,” Cindy Jackson said.
RELATED: Detroit Mayor Duggan anticipates 250 COVID-19 patients will be placed at TCF Center
Army SPC Anton Horton is one of the many people transforming the TCF Center to a hospital.
“This is what we signed up for, you know, just to do this do exactly what we’re doing right now," Horton said. “And provide hope to people who may feel, you know, kind of scared.”
This is a scary situation for everyone. Many don’t know what’s to come.
Recently, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued a stay-at-home order for the state of Michigan. That ban forced businesses and restaurants to close their doors in order to stop the spread of COVID-19).
“Yeah hopefully it’ll just be to the 30th so, you know, that’ll put us over the edge to where we’ll, you know, be able to jump right back in and start things right back up so hopefully it won’t go past that but you know we have to do what’s right and be safe,” Cindy Jackson said.
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.