KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The city of Kalamazoo announced that City Manager Jim Ritsema tested positive for COVID-19 Thursday morning.
Ritsema said he is experiencing mild symptoms and will be self-isolating until he is cleared by medical professionals.
“Fortunately, I’ve been working primarily remotely throughout the pandemic and have not been at the office since Tuesday, Oct. 6. I have been working closely with the Kalamazoo County Health Department and following their guidance and recommendations," he said in a statement.
Ritsema told the city commission, and he has been in contact with the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department for contact tracing.
“Health and safety are a top priority for the City of Kalamazoo and I encourage every resident to continue to take precautions by wearing masks, washing their hands often and practicing social distancing to help prevent the spread of this serious illness,” he said.
Kalamazoo Mayor David Anderson said this positive case is a reminder to "remain vigilant and continue taking the proper precautions."
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
