L’ANSE — The Baraga County Board of Commissioners approved temporary orders and closures for county offices to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus at a special meeting Thursday.

Starting 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Baraga County will limit public access to the courthouse. Anyone with essential business to conduct with a county department in the courthouse or administration offices should call to make an appointment. The order will stay in effect until 8 a.m. April 6 unless otherwise noted.

The courthouse and administration building will be closed for all meetings, trainings, conferences or similar gatherings.

The Board of Commissioners is still scheduled to meet as regularly scheduled at 5 p.m. April 14 in the circuit courtroom.

Baraga County encourages the public to adhere to the following basic personal-hygiene measures to help prevent the spread of the virus:

* Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer;

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands;

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;

Avoid handshakes;

Avoid contact with people who are sick;

Stay home when you are sick

* Symptoms of COVID-19 to be aware of may include shortness of breath or trouble breathing, fever and cough.

Additional information regarding COVID-19 can be found at www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/ or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Additional questions regarding the temporary orders and closures provided in this press release should first be directed to the department in which you have business. General questions may be directed to Wendy J. Goodreau, Baraga County Clerk at 906-524-9301 or by email to goodreauw@baragacounty.org.