Fourth of July travelers warned of COVID-19 cases linked to I-70 rest area in Kansas
Kansas health officials are warning Fourth of July weekend travelers of coronavirus cases from a rest stop along Interstate 70.
The Shawnee County Health Department says cases of COVID-19 are linked to a service area east of Topeka, where holiday travelers may have been exposed at the food court and restrooms.
The possible exposure occurred at the site at mile marker 188 on the Kansas Turnpike from July 2-4. The rest area, which can be accessed by eastbound and westbound travelers, has a gas station and several fast-food restaurants.
“It is important that the public be aware of this information in case they traveled and stopped at the Turnpike food court during their travels for the holiday weekend,” Shawnee County Health Officer Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino said in a news release. “While the risk is most likely low for infection, it is not zero, and individuals should contact their healthcare provider if they begin to exhibit any symptoms related to COVID-19.”
The health department is not releasing the number of cases linked to the rest area, a spokesman told McClathcy News.
People who used the rest area should see a doctor if they develop symptoms within 14 days of visiting the site, officials say.
Common symptoms of the coronavirus include fever of 100.4 F or higher, chills, rigors, muscle pain or aches, malaise, headache, sore throat, lower respiratory illness (cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing), new olfactory and taste disorders and diarrhea.
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