90 cases of COVID variant identified in the Ionian correctional center, say health officials

IONIA, me. – Ninety cases of SARS-CoV-2 B117 have been identified at the Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility in Ionia, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Officials said the cases were identified after daily tests of inmates and staff at the facility. Testing began when an employee tested positive for the variant, prompting the Michigan Department of Corrections to perform daily tests.

In the first group of samples sent to MDHHS, it was found that 90 of the 95 tests were positive for the variant. According to health officials, of these 90 cases, 88 are prisoners and two are employees. There are still more than 100 laboratory results pending.

Health officials advise that Michiganders:

• Wash your hands often.

• Wear a mask around the others.

• Keep 6 feet away from others.

• Ventilate indoor spaces.

• Make a plan to get the vaccine when the opportunity is available.

Officials said the number of positive COVID-19 cases at the facility has decreased.

Announcements

Earlier this month, the variant was identified in Kent County after it was identified in Wayne and Washtenaw counties. Last week, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said there are two confirmed cases of the variant in the city.

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