MACOMB COUNTY — A first presumptive diagnosis of COVID-19 was made Friday night according to The Macomb County Health Department.

The patient has been described as a middle aged adult male with a history of travel who is currently hospitalized at a medical facility, a news release said.

Officials are working to identify people who may have come into close contact with the patient so appropriate action can be taken, and to monitor them for symptoms.

Also on Friday, state health officials listed two Macomb County locations as possible COVID-19 exposure sites that occurred on March 5. These include the Burger King on 27700 23 Mile in Chesterfield Township between 12:15-12:35 p.m. and a White Castle at 27760 23 Mile in New Baltimore from 12:15-12:35 p.m.

“This is a time for Macomb County residents to unite and help to prevent the spread of this virus,” Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel said in the release. “We need to remain calm, and follow guidelines that have been established by public health professionals.”

A total of 25 presumptive cases have been recorded in Michigan thus far; all have been tested in Lansing at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories.

Macomb County is now collaborating with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, local healthcare providers, and community partners to prevent and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the Macomb Daily reported.

“We encourage everyone to practice everyday prevention measures like frequent hand washing, staying home when sick and covering coughs and sneezes to safeguard ourselves, our families and our communities,” said Ridella in the release.

According to the CDC, people can help combat the virus by washing their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after being in a public place, blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. They also advise to cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands as much as possible, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover.

Recently, McLaren Macomb Hospital in Mount Clemens began testing people at a drive-through tent facility in the city, as noted by the Macomb Daily newspaper.

For more information, visit health.macombgov.org/Health-Programs-DC-Coronavirus, or call the Macomb County Health Department’s COVID-19 helpline at 586-463-3750, 8:30 A.M. – 5 p.m., seven days a week.