LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s stay-at-home order, which requires numerous businesses to halt operations or shift to remote work, has led to some confusion.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued the order Monday in an attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
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Attorney General Dana Nessel said phone lines have been overwhelmed with people asking questions about the order and reporting businesses that are remaining open despite not being essential.
RELATED: What nonessential employees can do if they’re being forced to work
She addressed some of the questions her office has received about the order in a video Friday.
Read answers to the questions below (and watch her video below the questions).
Do you need to have a pass to travel to or from work?
No.
Are workers in RV sales, manufacturing and distribution critical infrastructure workers?
No.
Is construction allowed?
Construction is allowed in limited forms, including construction to maintain and improve roads, bridges, telecommunications infrastructure and public health infrastructure. Construction workers can also do projects necessary to maintain and improve the safety, sanitation and essential operations of a residence. Cosmetic work is not allowed.
Can landscaping and other outdoor maintenance companies operate?
No, unless it improves the safety, sanitation and essential operations of a residence.
Can hardware stores remain open?
Yes because they supply things needed for essential construction work. Hardware stores that are open must implement social distancing practices.
Are golf courses allowed to stay open?
No, and golf courses cannot have employees come to work.
Can tobacco shops, cigar bars, vape shops and hookah lounges stay open?
No.
Are members of the media allowed to have access to the station to deliver news?
Yes.
There is a page on Nessel’s website dedicated to employee rights. See it here.
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.