GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- The daily number of new coronavirus cases continued to remain steady in Kent County, and the local health department director is calling that a good sign.

Kent County Health Department Director Adam London said the relatively flat rate over the last week means that social distancing efforts are having an effect.

“This is showing us that our rate of increase has flattened, and flattened to the point that I can conclude that what we’re doing right now is having an effect,” London said in his daily Facebook update.

State health officials reported Monday that Kent County now has a total 177 cases of COVID-19 and five related deaths. That’s an increase of 12 cases and two deaths from a day prior.

The daily number of new cases has remained averaged around 11 since Tuesday, March 31.

London also said the average number of days it takes for the county’s total cases to double is better than the U.S. and state averages.

Even with the good news, London said it’s not time to let up on social distancing efforts.

“While we're having an effect, we are still early on in this epidemic and it's very important that we don't relax the things that we're doing right now,” he said. “We've got the tiger by the tail right now. It's not time to let go. It's not time to relax what you're doing.”

State health officials on Monday reported no new cases in Ottawa County. Their total remains at 44 cases. The county has no reported deaths related to coronavirus.

A total of five people have died from coronavirus in Kent County.

The youngest was a woman in her 60s. The oldest was a man in his 90s. All reported victims so far have had underlying health conditions that the health department has not disclosed.

The county has 100 pending tests.

Monday was also the deadliest day statewide with 110 new deaths related to coronavirus reported.

The state now has a total 17,221 confirmed cases and 727 deaths.

Full coverage of the coronavirus in Michigan

CORONAVIRUS PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus.

Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible.

Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and when you go into places like stores.

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