EAST LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — More than a dozen people who recently visited a popular bar in East Lansing have tested positive for coronavirus, the Ingham County Health Department said.
The department is asking anyone who was at Harper's Restaurant & Brew Pub between June 12-20 to watch for symptoms of COVID-19.
Those symptoms could develop up to 14 days after exposure, and anyone with symptoms should get tested immediately. People without symptoms may also request testing. Asymptomatic infections do occur and can be contagious. Symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, shortness of breath and fever.
“Anyone could have COVID-19. You never know because some people with coronavirus are not yet sick, and some people never have signs of the disease,” said Ingham County Health Officer Linda S. Vail. “We need people to treat every person they encounter as a potential carrier. That means wearing masks and keeping 6 feet away from others. I strongly urge everyone to take precautions so that we can keep infections down and keep businesses open.”
Health inspectors found the bar did follow appropriate safety procedures related to employees, restaurant capacity and table spacing. Harper's has voluntarily closed to eliminate lines and modify its HVAC system.
All of those with the cases are between the ages of 19 and 23, and half are connected to Michigan State University. Some have permanent residence in other Michigan counties.
“We know that the virus can be spread when people are in close proximity to each other and are not wearing face coverings. These positive cases underscore the importance of personal responsibility among our students, faculty and staff, and taking the necessary steps to protect ourselves and others from the unnecessary transmission of COVID-19. This includes wearing a cloth face covering in public spaces and avoiding large gatherings,” said MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of our Spartan community impacted by this virus and we wish them a speedy recovery. We will continue working in partnership with the health department to facilitate any necessary contact tracing and redouble our efforts to educate our community on the importance of the preventative measures we all should be taking.”
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