As of April 16, at 11:30 AM, Calhoun County has a cumulative total of 118 confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported to Calhoun County Public Health Department (CCPHD), with a total of 4 deaths attributed to COVID-19 and 40 cumulative hospitalizations. It is important for the community to remember that we are still on our projected upswing in COVID-19; as the virus progresses in its spread, we hope to see our peak in positive cases soon, but Calhoun is not there yet. Continuing to do your part by following CDC guidance remains crucial at this time.
“Now more than ever we need to step on the neck of the virus and Stay Home unless ABSOLUTELY essential to go out,” said Eric Pessell, Calhoun County Health Officer.
Protecting Septic Systems
CCPHD Environmental Public Health Division staff have reported a higher than usual volume of failed septic systems. Many home septic systems are failing sooner than usual due to increased use while Calhoun residents continue to follow the Stay Home Stay Safe Executive Order from Governor Whitmer. CCPHD urges our community to help prolong the lifespan of your septic systems through the following guidance:
1. Space out dishwashing and washing machine usage. Though being home is a good time to get caught up on dishes and laundry, too many loads in a day can overload a system that hasn’t been recently pumped.
2. “No Wipes in the Pipes!” Only toilet paper should be flushed. Paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cleaning wipes, and even products described as “flushable” won’t break down properly in your septic system. These items need to go in the trash.
3. Avoid pouring fats, greases, and solids down your drains. These substances can clog a system’s pipes and drain fields.
4. Once the Stay Home Order is lifted, and business can reopen as “normal,” consider having your septic system serviced/pumped.
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For updates from Calhoun County, about County operations and COVID-19 counts in Calhoun County, visit the County website,
calhouncountymi.gov
. Case counts will be updated twice daily.
The State’s COVID-19 Hotline is available for anyone who has questions or concerns related to the virus. The hotline is open seven days a week from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 1-888-535-6136. For state COVID-19 information, visit
michigan.gov/coronavirus
