Michigan coronavirus (COVID-19) cases up to 38,210; Death toll now at 3,407
DETROIT – The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 38,210 as of Monday, including 3,407 deaths, state officials report.
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Monday’s update represents an increase of 432 cases and 92 deaths. Sunday’s total was 37,778 confirmed cases and 3,315 deaths. This was the lowest case increase since March 23.
State officials say the rate of growth is continuing to slow, while testing rates continue to rise. Last week, officials noted a 15 percent decrease in virus hospitalizations over the previous 10 days.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced an extension of the state’s stay-home order last week, which is now in effect through May 15. The new order eases restrictions on certain businesses and activities.
Live today at 4: Michigan Gov. Whitmer holds coronavirus news briefing
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will hold a news conference Monday afternoon to address the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gov. Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun will provide an update at 4 p.m. -- Watch it live here.
Last week, Gov. Whitmer announced an extension of the state’s stay-at-home order, now in effect through May 15. The new order lifted restrictions on certain business activity.
Landscapers, lawn-service companies, plant nurseries and bike repair shops can resume operating, subject to social-distancing rules. Stores selling nonessential supplies can reopen for curbside pickup and delivery. Big-box retailers no longer have to close off garden centers and areas dedicated to selling paint, flooring and carpet.
Data: Michigan residents ardent social distancers in April
Between April 1 and April 24, an average of about 33 percent of United States residents were staying home. In Michigan, an average 38 percent of residents were staying home during that time period. “Staying home” means no trips more than one mile away from home, according to the researchers at the University of Maryland.
Michigan has received a social distancing index of 63 between April 1 and April 24. On April 5, Michiganders peaked at a social distancing index of 74 with 44 percent of residents staying home. The nation overall has a social distancing index of 51.
Read more about the research and data here.
Michigan order extends validity of personal protection orders (PPOs)
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed Executive Order 2020-63, which extends validity of existing personal protection orders that would otherwise expire during the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.
Whitmer’s order coincides with a Michigan Supreme Court administrative order extending the validity of personal protection orders until 90 days after Michigan’s emergency declaration is lifted. The order takes immediate effect.
Here’s what happened Sunday:
New Executive Order protects customers, employees
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a new Executive Order that focuses on reducing COVID-19 exposure at grocery stores.
The Executive Order establishes protocols for grocery stores, food establishments and pharmacies. The social distancing protocols include requiring employees to wear face coverings, implementing daily screening programs and more.
11 deaths, high rate of infection at prison
More than 50 percent of inmates tested at a prison have been infected with coronavirus and at least 11 have died, officials reported.
Lakeland prison in Branch County in southern Michigan continues to be a hot spot. It has a large share of the system’s older prisoners.
SNL delivers a parody message from Whitmer
Actress Cecily Strong portrayed Whitmer recording a video message outside her home for Michigan constituents.
The skit touched on the criticism Whitmer has received for her stay-at-home order.
Whitmer extends order protecting jail, juvenile detention populations
Whitmer signed an order to extend protections for vulnerable populations in Michigan’s county jails, local lockups and juvenile detention centers.
The Executive Order replaces her prior order, and details risk-reduction protocols that have been adopted and implemented by the Michigan Department of Corrections.
Death toll reaches 3,315
The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 37,778 as of Sunday, including 3,315 deaths, state officials report.
That number is up from 37,203 confirmed cases and 3,274 deaths Saturday.
The official recovery total is 8,342.
SMART requires masks for riders
SMART bus riders are now required to wear masks, and route changes are being made.
It will eliminate many late night trips on its weekday, Saturday and Sunday schedules.
In addition, Sunday service has been reduced to operate every 60–90 minutes.
AG asks police to be patient with businesses struggling to get masks for employees
Attorney General Dana Nessel has requested police to consider the good faith efforts of businesses that have been unable to secure masks before taking action against a non-compliant business.
Starting Monday, employers are required to supply employees with appropriate face coverings.
Explore Michigan virtually
How about some good news?
While you are social distancing, you can explore Michigan virtually.
The #VirtualPureMichigan campaign will include live cameras showing places such as Traverse City, Holland and Frankenmuth, as well as virtual tours of museums, and other related educational experiences.
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.