The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) has been made aware of a series of events in Barry County where several individuals who attended later tested positive for COVID-19. The events occurred at the Barry Community Enrichment Center in Hastings, MI on the following dates:

 

• Wednesday, May 4, 2022: Dress Rehearsal (~70 people attended)

• Thursday, May 5, 2022: Performance (~115 people attended)

• Thursday, May 5, 2022: After Performance Gathering (~115 people attended)

 

Everyone in attendance at these events is considered to have been exposed to COVID-19. The event organizers have decided to cancel future performances out of an abundance of caution. These events are an example of how quickly COVID-19 can spread through a community via large gatherings or events. In order to keep the community safe and protect folks who are most vulnerable, BEDHD is encouraging those who attended and are unvaccinated or at high risk of severe illness to:

• Get tested at least 5 days after exposure • Watch for symptoms until 10 days after exposure

• If symptoms develop, isolate immediately and get tested • Wear a well-fitting mask in public

• Avoid being around people who are more likely to get very sick from COVID-19 To be safe at large events this summer, everyone is encouraged to stay up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines, get tested before and after large events (and monitor for symptoms after an event), social distance when appropriate and wear a mask if you believe you may be at higher risk of severe illness due to COVID-19. COVID-19 rapid antigen testing and PCR testing are available to individuals of any age, regardless of symptoms. 

For more information, visit https://barryeatonhealth.org/covid-19-center or www.michigan.gov/coronavirus.