The Berrien County Health Department announced three new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed over the weekend. The county has a total of 5 cases.

The first new positive case is an adult male over the age of 6 who is the spouse of another positive case related to the Sandi Patty concert.

The second newly identified positive case is also an adult male over the age of 60, but is not associated with the Sandi Patty concert exposure.

Both patients are self-isolating at home to recover from their symptoms.

The third case is an adult male, over the age of 60 who is recovering Lakeland Medical Center in St. Joseph. It is not known at this time if this individual’s COVID-19 exposure was related to the Sandi Patty concert.

The Berrien County Health Department is communicating directly with the people who had been in close contact with the individuals who have tested positive. All close contacts of the COVID-19 positive individuals will be asked to self-quarantine and will be assessed for symptoms and monitored appropriately.

“Based on the increase of COVID-19 cases across the region, residents can assume that there is a possibility the virus may be present when they are in public places in the community,” says Nicki Britten, health officer, Berrien County Health Department. “Everyone should be taking all recommended prevention measures by practicing social distancing and heeding Executive Orders that are in place. Our collective goal remains to slow the spread of cases as much as possible.”

Residents who are feeling sick are strongly urged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. Residents with symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath are encouraged to call the free Spectrum Health virtual screening phone line that is available to all Michigan residents at 616.391.2380 to see if testing is necessary.