LANSING, Mich. — To better serve local businesses, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Ingham County Health Department are working together to answer questions about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the workplace. Starting today, the Chamber will answer basic questions from local businesses with concerns about COVID-19.
Businesses are still required to report employee cases of COVID-19 to the health department, which can be done through a form on the health department’s website, but any questions they have will go to the Chamber first. The Chamber will escalate calls and emails to the health department as needed.
“Many businesses have similar questions and concerns,” said Ingham County Health Officer Linda S. Vail. “Staff were essentially answering the same questions over and over. Cases are widespread now and our pandemic response strategy has changed. We cannot continue to provide this level of support, but we did not want to leave businesses without resources. The Chamber has been a tremendous partner throughout the entire pandemic and offered to step into this role.”
The health department is focusing its efforts on priority cases and situations including: outbreaks; people over age 65 years; people under age 18 years; anyone linked to an acute care, skilled nursing or long-term care facility; anyone linked to a school (includes child care facilities, K-12 schools, and colleges and universities); and any time a death has occurred.
“This is an unprecedented time and challenge for local businesses,” said Tim Daman, President and CEO of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber has a long history of providing tools and resources to local businesses, and this is another opportunity to provide support. Timely and accurate advice regarding COVID-19 cases in the workplace keeps businesses open and ensures employee safety.”
The health department has provided tools, guidance and training to the Chamber in preparation of the partnership. Businesses can submit questions to the Chamber via email at relaunch@lansingchamber.org or telephone at (517) 853-6442.
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