DETROIT – When it comes to social distancing, Michigan is at the top of the class.
Uncast developed a “social distancing scoreboard,” which evaluates how every state is following and implementing social distancing in the battle against coronavirus.
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The scores Wednesday were developed using “human mobility data,” essentially looking at traveled distance for each state, assuming people who are staying home aren’t traveling, and therefore are practicing social distancing. (It’s a lot more technical than that, trust me. Read more about methodology here.)
Donate: List of hospitals, medical providers in need of supplies during coronavirus outbreak
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Michigan is rapidly evolving and more cases are being identified as testing ramps up around the state. Amid this unprecedented outbreak, hospitals and medical providers are struggling to coordinate necessary supplies and protective equipment. Here’s how you can help.
Here’s what happened Tuesday:
Detroit police officer dies
A Detroit police officer has died after being diagnosed with COVID-19.
A 911 operator in Detroit was also reported dead from the virus Tuesday.
Beaumont hospitals nearing ventilator capacity
Officials with Beaumont said its eight Michigan hospitals have “some ventilator capacity” but are nearing that capacity.
The hospitals are also nearing staffing and personal protective equipment capacity.
Local 4 anchor Evrod Cassimy tests positive for COVID-19
“Take this very seriously because I would not want anybody to go through what I’ve gone through. I took it as seriously as most people are and still got it,” he said. "I’m hurting and I am going to be OK.”
Death toll rises to 24
The state is reporting 24 coronavirus-related deaths.
MORE: UAW officials say a worker from the FCA Sterling Heights Assembly Plant has died from coronavirus
The total number of state-reported confirmed cases is 1,791 as of Tuesday afternoon.
This total represents an increase of 463 cases, the biggest one-day jump reported so far, as Monday’s final total was 1,328 confirmed cases.
The increase in cases is likely due to more testing and a backlog of testing results now being reported.
Oakland County issues order requiring employee COVID-19 screenings
The Oakland County executive and health officials are issuing an order that requires screening procedures for employees of essential businesses. The order also includes implementation of social distancing for employees and customers.
Oakland County businesses that are remaining open under the Michigan governor’s stay-at-home order must comply.
The order will go into effect Wednesday at noon. It will remain in effect until at least April 13.
Community leader Marlowe Stoudamire dies
Marlowe Stoudamire, a community leader in Metro Detroit, has died from coronavirus (COVID-19), officials said.
Stoudamire was 43.
His endeavors included strategic and philanthropic work.
Ford to make medical supplies
Ford Motor Co. is partnering with 3M and GE to help make medical supplies during the coronavirus outbreak.
Bill Ford Jr. laid out how the company is trying to make extra medical supplies. The partnership is designed to help make air purifying respirators, ventilators and face shields.
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 and 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.
MORE: Beaumont Health launches coronavirus hotline for patients with symptoms
People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.