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18

Sep, 2019

Statement On EEE Outbreak

Recently, throughout Southwest Michigan, there has been an outbreak of the Eastern Equine Encephalitis (“EEE”) virus, which, as of this time, has affected at-least seven people in five counties, and resulted in three fatalities thus far. The Hartford Council for Recreation sends our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends who have experienced painful loss, and send our best wishes to those who are fighting for their lives in local hospitals.
While the likelihood of catching the virus, and its serious effects, are rare, there is too much of a risk to continue doing business as is. This virus can affect anyone, but there is a higher risk among those aged 15 or younger, and those aged 50 and higher. And with continued warmth expected through the months of September and October, and the likelihood of precipitation being high and making for more mosquito-breeding areas, the burden would be too great in our hearts and minds to allow our families to be put at risk.
With that in mind, the Hartford Council for Recreation is following the recommendations set forth by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Van Buren / Cass District Health Department. This means that times for games and practices in the near future will be changed, and nothing will occur at Indian Pride Park or Indian Stadium after dusk. These changes will continue indefinitely until either the end of the season, or the first hard frost of the fall; whichever occurs first.
Our organization has released a statement regarding the situation, and asks that parents and guardians read the statement to see what we are doing in the near-term to protect your children, along with your families. Please understand that these are just initial steps, and if we are asked to take further measures, we will do so with no hesitation. The health, safety, and well-being of everyone are at the paramount of who we are, and we will do everything in our power to protect life and property.
We appreciate everyone’s understanding regarding this matter. If you have questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to reach out to a member of the Hartford Council for Recreation, and we would be happy to discuss this further. Stay safe, everyone!

To view our statement in English, click here.
To view our statement in Spanish, click here.
For more information on the virus, and ways you can prevent mosquito bites, visit the Van Buren / Cass District Health Department by clicking here.