KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Health officials say residents who have visited a plasma center in downtown Kalamazoo may have been exposed to the coronavirus.
On Friday, the Kalamazoo County Health and Community Services Department released a statement stating that one symptomatic employee who works for Grifols BioMat USA on East Kalamazoo Avenue has tested positive for COVID-19.
They’re now encouraging anyone who was at the plasma center on June 27, 28, and 29, and July 3, 6, 8, and 9 to monitor themselves daily for symptoms and seek testing.
The release from the health department states, “The medical/clinical employee with COVID-19 was wearing a face covering and shield while working; however, transmission is still possible due to the prolonged close contact that may occur during the process of plasma donation.”
Kalamazoo County Health Officer Jim Rutherford also said that Grifols BioMat USA is working closely with the health department, “People should be aware that they may receive a phone call or message from us. We ask if you do, to please call us back. Reducing the risk of community transmission is a critical intervention for COVID-19. With more places reopening and people interacting more in public, we are likely to have potential public exposures, like this one, occur.”
Some common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Sore throat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Recent loss of taste or smell
Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their local health department immediately.
The latest coronavirus information and testing locations can always be found at michigan.gov/coronavirus.
