LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said the state’s coronavirus (COVID-19) peak could be anywhere from 9-14 days away during a town hall Thursday.
The governor fielded questions about the pandemic, making it clear she thinks the worst is yet to come.
When asked when things could go back to normal, she said, “I think that’s a question no one can answer with great confidence.”
She also acknowledged that she understands the frustration people have about the stay-at-home order, which has led to many people being laid off. Whitmer said employment claims in the state have increased 4000 percent.
Whitmer said she knows the order has caused added hardships, but noted that the virus is highly contagious and deadly.
RELATED: Michigan officials: Follow COVID-19 social distancing orders or face fines up to $1,000
Whitmer could not answer whether that order would be extended.
“I would anticipate that there is a possibility that I will have to lengthen the stay-at-home order but precisely how long it is and when the announcement will be made, I’m not prepared to say,” she said.
MORE: What the CDC says you should do if you believe you have coronavirus (COVID-19)
How COVID-19 Spreads
Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
- Spread is possible before people show symptoms. People who are not showing symptoms can still be carrying the virus and can still pass it on to other people.
Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
How easily the virus spreads
How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.
Prevention & Treatment
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Click here for more guidelines from the CDC.
People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.